Governor and Lt. Governor of the United States Virgin Islands

Governor forms public/private sector committee to address American Airlines' reduction of flights to the region; Committee to address potential impact of flight reductions affecting the territory this Fall

5/31/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. on Saturday announced the formation of a special committee to proactively address the potential impact of a planned reduction in airline service to the territory later this year.

According to a statement issued by American Airlines on May 27, the airline plans to "restructure American and American Eagle operations at San Juan, Puerto Rico beginning in September. This round of reductions will affect American and American Eagle flights originating from San Juan to the United States and various islands in the Caribbean."

Governor submits balanced FY 2009 Budget to the Senate; Package outlines financial challenges ahead and priorities of Administration moving forward

5/30/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. this afternoon submitted to the 27th Legislature, the Fiscal Year 2009 proposed budget for the operations of the V.I. Government beginning on October 1, 2008. The balanced budget, the second of the deJongh-Francis Administration, totals $867.3 million.

Office of the Governor launches Territorial selection process for Virgin Islands Commemorative Quarter

5/29/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. recently selected members of the community from throughout the territory to advise him on the creation and design of a Virgin Islands Commemorative Quarter. Following legislation sponsored by Delegate Donna Christian Christensen in 2007, The United States Mint requested that the Virgin Islands design a commemorative quarter. Throughout the nation, the development of a design is overseen by the Office of the Governor. In the territory, individuals were invited by Governor deJongh to participate on the Virgin Islands Commemorative Quarter Selections Committee to create and design a special-issue coin. The final three designs have been released to the general public for review and selection.

Delta Sima Theta Sorority, Inc. Week proclaimed in the territory

5/27/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 25-31, 2008 as "Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Week" in the United States Virgin Islands.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was founded on January 13, 1913 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. by 22 college educated women. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide support in local communities based on economic and educational development, international and political awareness, as well as, physical and mental health.

Governor convenes CEDS meeting

5/25/08 - Governor John P. deJongh Jr. recently convened a meeting of the committee on Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) to continue the process of formulating an action plan which will guide future economic development in the territory. The CEDS committee is a think-tank of public and private sector representatives who represent all major interests of the community.

Governor proclaims Day of Healing and Prayer Against Gun Violence in the Territory

5/23/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed Sunday, May 25, 2008 as "A Day of Healing and Prayer Against Gun Violence in the Territory," to deplore the senseless acts of gun violence in our community.

Memorial Day proclaimed in the U.S. Virgin Islands

5/23/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh has proclaimed Saturday, May 31, 2008 as "Memorial Day" in the United States Virgin Islands.

Memorial Day was established over 100 years ago to commemorate those who died in the defense of our national ideals – freedom, justice and equal rights. This day is set aside to unite the people of the United States and the Territory in prayer for a permanent world peace, and to give thanks for the great blessings of freedom and peace. Virgin Islanders are proud to serve our country as it strives to maintain a delicate world peace.

Governor offers solution to the St. John School issue

5/23/08 - After years of students having to trek from St. John to St. Thomas via commercial ferry to secure an education, Governor John P. deJongh Jr. said Friday that there is growing support in Washington for an Administration proposal which would facilitate the construction of a new school on St. John, while also addressing some of the Administration’s initiatives with respect to agriculture and tourism.

DPNR to enact immediate enforcement of the prohibition on gill and trammel nets for the capture of reef fish

5/23/08 - The Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) announced Friday that, after careful review of the status of the Territory’s fisheries and the Virgin Islands fishery regulations, the prohibition of the use of gill and trammel nets for reef fish species will be strictly enforced.

deJongh criticizes "No" votes cast in legislation to aid economic development on St. Croix

5/23/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. has expressed disappointment that four St. Croix district senators failed to see the potential for new investments in the territory when they voted against an Administration proposal that establishes tax increment financing in the Virgin Islands.

Governor pleased with arrest and weapons confiscation during joint federal local operation on St. Croix Thursday

5/22/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. said Thursday he was gratified by the news that through the dedication of the local law enforcement community and in cooperation with federal law enforcement partners four persons have been taken into custody on drug and illegal weapons charges.

Tom Joyner Day proclaimed in the United States Virgin Islands

5/21/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed Thursday, May 22, 2008 as “Tom Joyner Day” in the United States Virgin Islands.

Tom Joyner is a world-renowned radio personality and philanthropist who hosts the syndicated “Tom Joyner Morning Show.” His foundation was established for the sole purpose of helping students stay in school at historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Governor proclaims African Heritage Week and African Liberation Day in the United States Virgin Islands

5/20/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. proclaimed May 18-25, 2008, as "African Heritage Week" and May 25 as "African Liberation Day" in the United States Virgin Islands as a reminder of our proud African heritage.

The annual observance of African Heritage Week is an occasion for Americans of African descent to reaffirm their patriotic ties to the United States, their cultural ties with the people of Africa and with their kin throughout the lands of the African Diaspora.

Small Business Week proclaimed in the United States Virgin Islands

5/20/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. proclaimed the week of May 19-25, 2008, as "Small Business Week" in the United States Virgin Islands to honor small business owners for the important role they play in ensuring America remains the economic leader of the world.

Emergency Medical Services Week proclaimed in the United States Virgin Islands

5/19/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 18-24, 2008, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" in the United States Virgin Islands to serve as an opportunity to educate the people of the Virgin Islands about accident prevention and what to do when confronted with a medical emergency.

Governor and First Lady host ceremonies for finalists in annual "Laws of Life" Essay Contest

5/18/08 - Students from the territory’s public high schools received cash awards this weekend during ceremonies hosted by Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. and First Lady Cecile deJongh in conjunction with the Gruber Foundation and The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI).

The students from Charlotte Amalie High School; Ivanna Eudora Kean High School; Central High School and Educational Complex were awarded for their participation in the annual "Laws of Life" essay contest. The contest, in its eighth year, is described as a character education program designed to get students thinking about their life values and expressing their thoughts in writing. Also participating in the contest were students in the ninth grade class at Julius Sprauve School on St. John.

Governor deJongh proclaims "Safe Boating Week" in the United States Virgin Islands

5/16/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed May 17-23, as "Safe Boating Week," in the United States Virgin Islands, with the theme, "Boat Smart from the Start. Wear Your Jacket." The U.S. Virgin Islands are blessed with some of the most beautiful and accessible coastal waters in the world. We have the freedom and ability to use these areas for our personal recreation and enjoyment.

U.S. Senate passes Farm Bill; Specialty Crops Block Grant program extended to the Virgin Islands for the first time

5/16/08 - The U. S. Senate on Thursday passed and sent to the President a multi-billion dollar farm bill that contains several provisions to benefit agricultural and environmental projects in the Virgin Islands. The Senate voted 81-15 following Wednesday’s 318-106 House vote to approve the five year extension of the nation’s farm programs, including a major expansion of the food stamp program.

Governor deJongh has proclaimed Public Service Recognition Week in the United States Virgin Islands

5/15/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 19-23, 2008, as "Public Service Recognition Week," in the United States Virgin Islands. The Territory, which will be celebrating its 19th annual celebration, will be joining the fifty states and territories in recognizing outstanding employees for their performance and efforts to improve public service.

Governor deJongh proclaims AmeriCorps week in the United States Virgin Islands

5/15/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 11-18, 2008 as "AmeriCorps Week," in the United States Virgin Islands. The AmeriCorps national service program has proven to be a highly effective way to engage Americans of all ages and backgrounds in meeting a wide range of community needs and promote the ethic of service and volunteering since its creation in 1994.

Governor: Pernod committed to building market position for Cruzan Rum

5/15/08 - Governor John P. deJongh Jr. met this week with the senior management of Pernod Ricard at their offices in Paris to discuss Pernod’s recent acquisition of Cruzan VIRIL, Ltd. as part of their purchase of Cruzan VIRIL, Ltd.’s parent company, Vin & Spirits, from the Government of Sweden. The Pernod Ricard representatives included included Chairman and CEO Patrick Ricard, Managing Director Pierre Pringuet, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard Americas Michel Bord, Jerome Cottin-Bizonne and Krister Asplund, Operations Director of Vin & Spirits.

Acting Governor Francis took action Wednesday on bills passed by the Senate and acknowledged three resolutions

5/14/08 - Acting Governor Gregory R. Francis Wednesday took action on bills recently passed by the 27th Legislature which were due back at the Senate today. Pointing out that the Legislature passed Bill 27-0009 with provisions which fail to address constitutional issues, are unclear or may not be implemented in their present form, Francis line-item vetoed certain provisions of Section 1 of the bill. This section would have outlined action to protect the territory’s aging population. Francis said the governor’s office is working with the Office of the Attorney General and will submit legislation which addresses these important issues. With the line-item veto of Section 1, Section 2 was also vetoed. Francis pledged that the proposal submitted by the Administration will contain provisions for funding the implementation of this important legislation.

deJongh nominates seven persons to the V.I. Board of Vocational Education and one to the Public Television System Board of Directors

5/14/08 - Governor John P. deJongh Jr. has nominated seven persons to the Virgin Islands Board of Vocational Education. The nominees, once approved by the Legislature, will either fill vacancies or replace persons whose term on the board has expired. "The nominations underscore the importance of the government providing students with choices that allow them to tap into their potential for continued learning and career development," deJongh said in making the nominations.

Governor to meet with new owners of Cruzan Rum

5/12/08 - Governor John P. deJongh Jr. will depart later today for Paris, France where he will hold meetings with Chairman Patrick Ricard and Managing Director Pierre Pringuet of Pernod Ricard, Ltd. Pernod Ricard recently won the public auction of V&S by the Swedish government. V&S is the parent company of Virgin Islands Rum Industries, Ltd.

The purpose of the trip is for deJongh to discuss with Pernod Ricard’s senior management their plans for the future of Cruzan rum. The ownership of Cruzan Rum has changed several times over the past decade, and the Chief Executive intends to discuss the future of the company and convey to Pernod Ricard the importance of stability and growth in rum exports to the territory. Pernod Ricard presently produces both Malibu and Havana Club brand rums.

Office of the Governor joins community partners in St. Croix clean-up

5/10/08 - The Office of the Governor today participated in a large-scale clean-up effort, "Project Red Brick," that included areas from WAPA east to Seaborne, in front of the de Chabert, D. Hamilton Jackson, and Watergut Housing Communities on St. Croix. The land is owned by the Department of Housing, Parks, and Recreation. The "Island Beautification Campaign" was led by Turner St. Croix.

Governor extends Mothers Day greetings

5/9/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. extends Mother’s Day greetings to all mothers of the Territory.

"Heartfelt greetings and best wishes are extended to all ladies of the Virgin Islands who have given of their time and effort towards the raising of the next generation of children," deJongh said, pointing out that each child is a treasured gift that requires an entire family, indeed an entire village, to nurture children into citizens of sound, moral character.

Governor deJongh proclaims Virgin Islands Police Week in the United States Virgin Islands

5/9/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 11-17, 2008, as "Virgin Islands Police Week" and Thursday, May 15, 2008 as "Peace Officers Memorial Day."

The U.S. Virgin Islands desires to honor the valor, service, commitment and dedication of its police officers. Law enforcement officers are our guardians of life and property, defenders of the individual rights to be free, and warriors in the war against crime.

deJongh imposes Executive Branch hiring freeze; Proactive measure exempts key positions within government

5/7/08 - Acting on recommendations forwarded to him by the Director of Personnel, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. has initiated a moratorium on Executive Branch hiring as "a proactive measure to ensure that necessary funds can be maintained for government services through the end of the current fiscal year." The hiring freeze, which took effect this week, applies to positions in both the classified and exempt service.

In a letter to the heads of departments and agencies of the Executive Branch, deJongh said, no Executive Branch position would be filled unless it is deemed exempted from the moratorium or specifically recommended for exemption by the Director of Personnel.

Building Safety Week proclaimed in the U.S. Virgin Islands

5/5/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 5-11, 2008 as “Building Safety Week” in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Building Safety Week, sponsored by the International Code Council, reminds the public about the critical role of our communities’ largely unknown guardians of public safety – our local code officials - who help prevent countless fires and accidents. The theme “Building Safety: Where You Live, Work and Play,” encourages all Americans and residents to raise awareness of the importance of building safety; green and sustainable building; pool, spa, and hot tub safety; and new technologies in the construction industry; it presents appropriate steps everyone can take to ensure that the places where we live, learn, work and play are safe, and that countless lives have been saved due to the implementation of safety codes by local and state agencies.

Governor proclaims Paws for a Cause Day in the United States Virgin Islands

5/5/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed May 5, 2008 as "Paws for a Cause Day" in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands recently enacted legislation in Act No. 6731 to make acts of animal cruelty felony offenses with severe penalties. The Territory has acknowledge and taken seriously that animal cruelty leads to other violent crimes especially child abuse and family abuse.

Governor proclaims Arson Awareness Week in the United States Virgin Islands

5/5/08 - Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed the week of May 4-10, 2008 as "Arson Awareness Week" in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Arson Awareness Week was established to create a recognition, awareness and understanding of the problem of arson and issues related to it. It also serves to educated residents of the importance of being prepared and to take the steps necessary to prevent fires, especially brush and house fires. Fires of any kind pose a serious threat to lives, property and natural resources. It is important that residents understand the danger, dollar losses and other problems cause by arson, house and brush fires in the Territory.

Governor deJongh proclaims Electrical Safety Awareness Month in the United States Virgin Islands

5/2/08 - Gov. deJongh has proclaimed May 2008 as “Electrical Safety Awareness Month” in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The efforts of the National Electrical Safety Foundation, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration are to promote and educate the public about the importance of practicing electrical safety in both their homes and workplaces. The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority is actively helping to move this effort forward in order to reduce the number of electrical injuries and deaths from electrical hazards.

Workforce Development Professionals Month proclaimed in the United States Virgin Islands

5/1/08 - Gov. deJongh proclaimed the month of May 2008 as “Workforce Development Professionals Month,” in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The economic development of every region of our country and here in the Territory, as well as the ability of our businesses and industries to compete in the global economy is more than ever before dependent on the availability and quality of a skilled workforce. The complexity and fast-paced change in our economy and labor markets puts new demands on individuals and employers at all levels.

"Click It or Ticket" Safety Belt Enforcement Month proclaimed in the United States Virgin Islands

5/1/08 - Gov. deJongh proclaimed the month of May 2008 as "Click or Ticket - Safety Enforcement Month," in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

One in five American motorists still fail to regularly wear their safety belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Regular safety belt use is the single most effective way to protect people and to reduce fatalities and injuries in motor vehicle crashes.

Governor deJongh proclaims Teacher's Day in the United States Virgin Islands

5/1/08 - Gov. deJongh has proclaimed Friday, May 2, 2008 as "Teacher’s Day" in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

It is fitting that we honor our teachers, in both private and public schools, who by their continuous and tireless efforts, strive to improve and upgrade the standards of education for the benefit of the children of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Governor deJongh proclaims Mental Health, Hepatitis and Asthma Awareness Month in the U.S. Virgin Islands

5/1/08 - Gov. deJongh has proclaimed May 2008 as "Mental Health, Hepatitis and Asthma Awareness Month" in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being. One in five American adults and children are affected by a mental illness, resulting in more than fifty million Americans suffering from a mental disorder in any given year. A majority of the people who overcome the fear, discrimination and misunderstanding of mental disorders, and who seek professional help, find relief following treatment. Early recognition and treatment of these problems vastly increases the likelihood of restored health. People with mental health illnesses can recover and lead full productive lives. A serious need exists to provide adequate and equitable health care coverage for mental disorders.

Virgin Islands Government paying 2007 income tax refunds; more than $28 million paid out to date

Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. said Thursday that to date more than $28.5 million has been paid out in 2007 income tax refunds to Virgin Islands taxpayers. "The Bureau of Internal Revenue has paid refunds to more than 11,000 taxpayers since March 11," deJongh said, adding that approximately $5 million in refunds are being authorized each week.

deJongh: Government receives funds to pay stimulus rebates; First checks to be issued on May 12

5/1/08 - Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. said Thursday that the Department of Finance has received the $41.5 million dollars from the U.S Treasury Department which represents the funds to pay out economic stimulus rebates in accordance with provisions of the Economic Stimulus Plan of the Bush Administration.

First Lady launches month-long mental health awareness media campaign in recognition of Mental Health Month

5/1/08 - In recognition of Mental Health Month this May, First Lady Cecile deJongh is launching a month-long media campaign to raise awareness on the reality of mental illness. The initiative is a territory-wide effort involving mental health experts, leaders in the V.I. Government, and other residents who have personal experience with mental illness. The campaign is comprised of four main themes, which are targeted for each of the four weeks in May and include: "What is Mental Illness/What are the Faces of Mental Illness?" (Week One); "Encouraging Treatment and Recovery" (Week Two); "Emphasizing Costs and Consequences of Not Treating Mental Illness/Ignoring Symptoms" (Week Three); and "Erasing the Stigma Associated with Mental Illness."