St. Croix This Week January 2021 by Metro Caribbean

5 0 T H A N N I V E R SA R Y Y E A R

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK VISITOR & LOCAL GUIDE FOR 50 YEARS

JANUARY 2021

CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCE

WELCOME BACK! Dept of Tourism Covid-19 Policies

23 & REFLECTIONS ON ST. CROIX 59 THIS WEEK’S 50 YEARS! 30

SION FARM DISTILLERY

LOCAL FARMSTANDS

COVER ARTISTS Thanking 83 of them!

OUR DANISH CONNECTION Paper Clipping, A Danish Pastime

KAYAK SAILING ADVENTURES Discover a Different Perspective!

ROSEWAY IS BACK! Get onboard!

ST. CROIX DIVE SITES Dive Experience

A BETTER DAY PEAK PERFORMANCE LAB & COSMIC APOTHECARY, LLC

JUJU & CECE’S LEMONADE & TREATS

MOVE OR IMPROVE FOR THE NEW YEAR? RE/MAX St. Croix

ON THE COVERS DECEMBER VICTORIA NELSON “Floating Hibiscus” Acrylic JANUARY 25 COVERS 2009-2019

Nina York’s collection of ST. CROIX THIS WEEK’s features, 2009-2019.

rm Distillery.

EDITOR’S NOTE On 50th Anniversaries

MAPS 54 56 58

ST CROIX ROAD MAP CHRISTIANSTED MAP Walking Tour FREDERIKSTED MAP Walking Tour

Pana Colada. Sio n Fa

4 EVENTS CALENDAR 7 ATTRACTIONS & TOURS 10 SHOP DUTY FREE 22 EASY SHOPPING GUIDE 24 FOOD & DRINK 34 EASY DINING GUIDE 36 LOCAL ART 38 WEDDINGS 40 WATERSPORTS 46 BEACHES 47 GOLF & TENNIS 48 GOOD TO KNOW 50 STAYING HERE EASY HOTEL GUIDE 52 GETTING AROUND Rental Cars/Taxis/Ferry 60 GET FIT/BE WELL 62 BUYING HERE 64 SKYWATCH

Dr. Micah McIntosh, A Better Day Peak Performance Lab & Cosmic Apothecary, LLC.

FEATURES

Sunset Sail aboard Roseway off Christiansted Harbor.

IN EVERY ISSUE

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK Morris Caribbean Publications St. Croix This Week St. Thomas / St. John This Week St. Thomas In A Day PUBLISHER GRAPHIC DESIGNER DISTRIBUTION

IN THE USA

Charlotte Atkins Chelsea Sunshine Liz Covert

MANAGING EDITOR - MEDIA CONSULTANT Susan S. Wall 340-773-0715 / 340-277-9642 stcroixthisweek@gmail.com e-edition – stcroixthisweek.com December 20 / Januar y 21 • 1

on St. Croix

Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner

Our Voted Best Award-Winning Voted Best Real Real ® Estate Agency REALTORS are Estate Agency aton your service on St. St. Croix Croix Our Our Award-Winning Award-Winning ® REALTORS ® ® are REALTORS are at your service Claudia at your service Rosalee Carrington Hays Gage

The Virgin Islands Of The United States OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE

1105 King Street Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S.V.I. 00820 Ava Gail Bourdon Ava Gail CanegataBourdon Broker-Owner Dianne Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner O’Reilly Broker-Owner

Claudia Claudia Carrington Emelyn Claudia Kelly Pugh Carrington Morris-Sayre Carrington

Rosalee Rosalee Hays Gage Christopher Rosalee La Toya Ault Hays Gage Jones Hays Gage

Dianne CanegataJason Dianne CanegataO’Reilly Dianne CanegataWalker O’Reilly O’Reilly

Emelyn Emelyn Char Emelyn Morris-Sayre Emelyn Gregoire Morris-Sayre Morris-Sayre Morris-Sayre

Christopher Joe and Juliet Christopher Jones Christopher SanJones Martin Jones

Jason La Toya Jason Walker Jason Lettsome-Ault Walker Walker

Karen Char Maria Gregoire CharDel Stanton Gregoire Valle Gregoire

Char

Joe and Juliet Timothy Joe and Juliet San Martin Joe and Juliet Providence San Martin San Martin

La Toya La Toya Lettsome-Ault LaJennell Toya Lettsome-Ault Bryan Lettsome-Ault

Karen Karen Yvonne Stanton Karen Stanton Toussaint Stanton

Timothy Patrick Timothy Robin and Walt Providence Timothy Providence Providence Frazier III Providence

340-773-1048

info@remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com www.remax-stcroix.com

Jennell

Yvonne Toussaint Jennell Bryan Jennell

Bryan Bryan

340-773-1048 340-773-1048 info@remax-stcroix.com

Timothy

RE/MAX St. Croix

#5 Company Street, Christiansted, VI 00820 Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated

Yvonne

Andre Toussaint Yvonne Toussaint Yvonne

Toussaint Toussaint

Robin and Walt Adina Espinosa Robin and Walt Frazier III Robin and Walt Frazier III III Frazier

RE/MAX St. Croix info@remax-stcroix.com RE/MAX Croix info@remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com #5 CompanySt. Street, Christiansted, VI 00820 info@remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com #5 Company Street, 00820 Office is Independently Owned &VI Operated www.remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com Each Company Street, Christiansted, Christiansted, VI 00820 www.remax-stcroix.com #5 Each Office Office is is Independently Independently Owned Owned & & Operated Operated www.remax-stcroix.com Each www.remax-stcroix.com 2 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Tel: (340) 773-1404 Fax: (340) 713-9806

Tel: (340) 772-1000 Fax: (340) 772-0333 Welcome to our beautiful Virgin Islands of the United States. Our islands are unique in what they each offer and our communities are filled with people who are proud of our storied history. While visiting, I encourage you to immerse yourself in our culture and to explore the unique offerings of all four Islands that make up our paradise.

St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, sits to the south of our small island chain and is renowned for its pastoral landscapes, Danish architecture and historical landmarks. With its offshore wrecks and unbelievably beautiful underwater reefs, St. Croix is also a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. Be sure to visit the historic towns of Frederiksted and Christiansted and indulge in St. Croix’s renowned art and delicious culinary scenes. St. John is one of the smaller U.S. Virgin Islands and conservation center of the territory. It is best known for its pristine beaches and the attractions within the Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies more than half the island. The lands in the Virgin Islands National Park shelter migrant birds and the mangroves support corals and anemones. As with all the Virgin islands, you will find that St. John provides a rich mix of our culture and history. St. Thomas is our business and shopping center and the seat of government. Charlotte Amalie is the capital town of the U.S. Virgin Islands and is one of the busiest ports of call for cruise ships in the Caribbean. St. Thomas is among the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for sailing and yachting enthusiasts. Water Island is the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and rests just off the coast of St. Thomas. It is mostly residential but offers fun attractions like Honeymoon Beach and quaint accommodations. The island can be reached by ferry from the Crown Bay Marina or by other vessels. As the Lieutenant Governor and Governor, both Treganza Roach and I wish you a warm, fun-filled stay and please accept our invitation to return often to our paradise. Albert Bryan, Jr. Governor

EDITOR’S NOTE

I Dear Visitor, Welcome to St. Croix, a land of spectacular beauty, rich cultural diversity and intriguing history. The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, with 84 square miles of rolling hillsides, pristine beaches and a tropical rainforest, St. Croix offers endless opportunities to pursue your heart’s desire and create a unique vacation experience. Adventurers and nature lovers can spend time hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, sailing or golfing at one of our championship golf courses. Scuba diving enthusiasts can experience five different dives in one day. For a more relaxed approach, swim in the crystalline waters of Buck Island, the only naturally occurring underwater National Monument in the U.S. History buffs can experience St. Croix’s vibrant history through its architecture, historic landmarks, food, music and traditions. Explore the magnificent Estate Whim Museum, a restored 18th century greathouse and sugar plantation, Forts Christiansvaern and Frederik or tour the lush gardens of the St. George Village Botanical Garden. Early risers can catch a picturesque sunrise at Point Udall, the easternmost point in the United States. Christiansted and Frederiksted, our main seaside towns, are a shopper’s nirvana with charming boutiques offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and apparel to colorful local art. Visitors enjoy a generous $1,600 duty-free shopping allowance. Our chic hotels, resorts and cozy bed-and-breakfast inns will pamper you with warm hospitality, while our world-class restaurants tempt your taste buds with local and international menus. St. Croix’s wide array of the entertainment choices, including fairs, festivals, live concerts and gaming venues ensure that the fun never ends. On behalf of the Department of Tourism, I hope you have an amazing vacation experience in St. Croix. Thank you for choosing the U.S. Virgin Islands. Sincerely,

Joseph Boschulte Commissioner USVI Department of Tourism

never would have guessed, when I arrived on St. Croix on May 15, 1978, that I would be involved in three different 50th Anniversaries over the years.

YEARS

1971-2021

My first was as Events Director at Whim Museum (1992-2005) when I was able to secure Castle Aura, the residence of Contessa Nadia de Navarro Farber, at Estate Grapetree, for the 50th Anniversary of the St. Croix Landmarks Society. This was the first time she had offered her home for a public event. We called it “Arabian Nights” and my committee, Nina York, Dawn Prosser, Jean Merwin, Nancy Ayer, Corny Schierloh, and Richard Harris, went all out creating a tented waiting area, in the parking lot at the old West Indies Lab across from the St. Croix Yacht Club, complete with camels, carpets, and comfortable seating while guests awaited transport up the hill. Back in March of 1998, there was never a worry about the weather and the dreaded rain that could spoil an outdoor event. Even though there was milling about in the one-bedroom Castle, most of the event, including a cocktail buffet of 1001 delights, catered by Dennis Giancontiere, live music, extravagant silent auction, and lavish raffle, took place on two amazing terraces. As guests left the festivities, Diane Butler handed each a Polaroid souvenir photo! When I joined the Board of the St. Croix Friends of Denmark six years ago it provided me with another opportunity to assist. I usually steered the organization’s events as I was ready, willing, and able with lots of help. On Saturday, November 8, 2014, we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the The St. Croix Friends of Denmark Society, honoring Jennie Lawaetz and Otto Tranberg, at Government House. Storyteller Louise Kjaer and the WDY Cultural Dancers entertained, Bill Bass was on steel drums and Stanley and The Ten Sleepless Knights kept us dancing. Passed Apps and Stations, Open Bar, Fruit and Rum Punch Fountains, and a theme cake for all, made for an elegant affair. Chef Anton Doos and his students at the Career and Technical Education Center did a fine job! And now the 50th Anniversary of ST. CROIX THIS WEEK! I remember meeting the first editor, Marjorie King, who moved to St. Croix in the mid-60s and invented a wonderful way to keep visitors informed about what was happening and what to do while they were on island. I remember being excited on my first trips to St. Croix when asked by the stewardess if I would like a Pink Sheet (they changed colors) of things to do. Early issues were one color, called This Week in St. Croix, with the Entertainment Schedule on the cover and a centerfold of liquor bargains! They progressed to heavier paper with a small and then larger color photo on the cover and expanded from 20 pages to 54. By now, Nina York was editor and the contents stretched to 43 subjects and the magazine welcomed the Danes for the first time. She tells the story (Page 23) from the beginning with photos that I could find and share. We have now expanded to 64 pages and count on the storytelling contributions of our advertisers, local residents, and non-profits. Our amazing local artists and photographers make the issues look good in the stands as they wait to be picked up; glad to introduce them all to you every month! Our 50th year begins now but we will be back with more reminiscing throughout the year. Thank you for your support! ntessa Susan Wall and Co rber, 1998. Fa rro va Nadia de Na December 20 / Januar y 21 • 3

Events Calendar DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine FB, 340-718-0544

Cruise Arrivals*

THURSDAYS, 6:30 PM Team Trivia The Palms at Pelican Cove Open Daily – Call for Take Out, 340-718-8920

Frederiksted Pier

Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility Virgin Islands Port Authority—

LAST THURSDAYS, 6PM Seaside Wine Club Seaside Market & Deli, 4 wine & food pairings, free. 340-719-9393

*Check www.viport.com to confirm the most current schedule. COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Any or all of these events will be modified or cancelled if necessary to comply with any orders or restrictions at this time. Please call, check websites, Facebook, or text prior to events. DECEMBER 15 is the deadline for event considerations for the FEB/MAR 2021 issue. Email event info, in the format you see here, to Liz Covert at lizcovert@yahoo.com

ONGOING MON - WED, 9AM-1PM Self-Guided Tours for the Public Botanical Gardens of the Virgin Islands Adults, $8, seniors & residents, $6, kids under 12, $1. Cash only. www.sgvbg.org 340-692-2874

LAST THURS. Free Wine Club at Seaside Market & Deli.

TUESDAYS, 5-8 PM Two for Tuesday Specials BREW STX, 340-713-9820 Inquire about live music TUESDAYS, 7PM until Best Karaoke Nauti Bar & Grille Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine FB, 340-718-0544 TUESDAYS, 6:30 PM Beachside BBQ The Palms at Pelican Cove Open Daily – Call for Take Out 340-718-8920

MON-FRI, 3-8PM Dine-in & Pick Up The Deep End Bar & Grill Live music, Monday & Wednesday. www.newdeepend.com, 340-718-7071

WEDNESDAYS, 7-10PM Open Mic Night Nauti Bar & Grille Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine FB, 340-718-0544

MON - SAT, 9AM-1PM Self-guided Garden Tours for Members & Guests Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands. Free. Guest passes accepted; Local and Group discounts; Cash Only. www.sbvbg, 340-692-2874

THURSDAYS 10-11AM Garden Zen Yoga with Shera Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands, Great Lawn under Flamboyant Tree. Wear masks, bring mats & water. Free. 340-692-2874, www.sgvbg.org, FB

MONDAY-SUNDAY, 11AM-10PM Dine In and Takeout The Mill Boardwalk Bar Brick Oven Pizza Menu on FB. 340 643-6455 MONDAY-SUNDAY, 6-10PM Dine In, Curbside Pick-up, Takeout Rum and Wine Bar Restaurant Japanese Teppanyaki Steakhouse New Menu on FB. 340-643-4729 MONDAYS, 5:30 PM Crab Races & Steak N Ale Night BREW STX, 340-713-9820 4 • December 20 / Januar y 21

THURSDAYS, 5:30 PM-Close Seafood Boil Night BREW STX, 340-713-9820 Inquire about live music

FRIDAYS, 10AM-2:30PM Open Gallery & To-Go Art Kits Barbara’s Art Studio. Text for a Gallery Tour, 340-514-9038 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8PM until Live Bands Nauti Bar & Grille Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine FB, 340-718-0544 FRIDAY/SATURDAY, 7PM Live Music by local Musicians & Bands The Palms at Pelican Cove Open Daily – Call for Take Out, (340)718-8920 SATURDAYS, 6AM-8AM V.I. CARES INITIATIVE Join us in keeping our shorelines clean! Check FB-Clean Up St. Croix for details. Wear mask, they provide gloves, bags & pickers. SATURDAYS, 8:15 PM Fire Show by Phoenix Fire Collective The Palms at Pelican Cove Open Daily – Call for Take Out, (340)718-8920 FIRST SATURDAY, 9AM - NOON Nursery Plant Sale Botanical Gardens of the Virgin Islands 340-692-2874, www.sgvbg.org THIRD SATURDAYS, 10 AM Orchid Awareness Group Meeting Community United Methodist Church Complex Frederiksted, 340-514-5349, FB LAST SATURDAYS, Time TBA Virtual Happy Hour Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts www.cmcarts.com 340-772-2622

THURSDAYS, 6PM Disco Bingo Deep End Bar & Restaurant Reserve! 340-718-7091, www.newdeepend.com

SUNDAYS, 5PM Blues Society Band Nauti Bar & Grille Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine FB, 340-718-0544

THURSDAYS, 7-10PM Solo artist or DJ Night Nauti Bar & Grille

SUNDAYS, 5:30-9:30 PM Italian Night The Palms at Pelican Cove

Events Calendar SAVE THE DATE!

for additional activities as Covid-19 restrictions & best practices allow. 340-773-1989, stxenvironmental.org. St. Croix Hiking Association We’ve got Hikes! Find upcoming hike info & where to meet at www.stcroixhiking.org, 340-772-2073

VIRTUAL DEC 1 – JAN 10. Holiday windows at Teddy’s Party & Rentals and Art @ Top Hat. Chalana Brown

Open Daily – Call for Take Out 340-718-8920

BY APPOINTMENT When Covid-19 restrictions apply. Art @ Top Hat Company Street, Christiansted Exhibits of local Virgin Islands fine artists. Company Street, Christiansted TopHat0055@gmail.com, 340-513-3558 Henle Studio Company Street, Christiansted Showcasing paintings and prints by Maria Henle; Photographs, books & films of St. Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle; Tina Henle photographs. henlegallery.com, 340-332-1628 Maufe Gallery Strand Street, Christiansted Unique and dynamic artwork & on-site jewelry workshop at Crucian Gold. 340-332-4556 Joyia-Inspirational Jewelry Virtual Styling Sessions Phone or video/zoom, Queen Cross Street. 340-713-4569, www.joyiajewelry.com/styling Regular hours when permitted during Covid-19. ONE NORTH 1 North Street, Christiansted Tour historic 1760 Townhouse and learn about West Indian furniture, artifacts and history. 340-514-7114, www.stxestatetour.com St. Croix Environmental Association Looking for outdoor activities? Particularly with the kids, check FB or website

Virtual Crucian Christmas Festival The Department of Tourism’s Division of Festivals is gearing up to produce a virtual Crucian Christmas Festival this holiday season with online versions of traditional Festival events such as a Crucian culinary showcase, historical dialogue on Mocko Jumbies and Masquerade, Village nights with top USVI performers, and a virtual J’ouvert for the masses. More details and the event schedule will be available in the coming weeks at www.usvifestivals.vi. V.I. Pace Runners Virtual Races V.I. Pace would like to interest you in participating in Virtual Races! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/vipaceraces

DEC 11. Annual Inkberry Tree Lighting, Limpricht Park, King Street. Christiansted. Chalana Brown

4 FRIDAY, 6 PM 2nd Annual Angel Tree Lighting Nauti Bar & Grille, Hospital Street Your angel is waiting to be chosen; Benefit for the Queen Louise Home for Children. FB 340-718-0544

Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty Virtual Open House, 1 PM Saturdays. Go to CBVirtualOpenHouse.com to watch! Eddie Russell Quelbe Jazz Band Livestreaming, FB/Jazz in the Park STX Last Sundays. Dec 27 and Jan 31, 6-7 PM Eddie returns to the Christiansted Bandstand the last Friday of each month, when Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.

DECEMBER 2020 1 THROUGH JANUARY 10, DAY OR NIGHT “Ah Cultural Look Through Deh Window” Teddy’s Party & Rentals, Orange Grove Showcase display of cultural Christmas themes and scenes. FB Crucian Cultural Group. ccg.allaboutculture@gmail.com. 340-277-6704 1- TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS, 11AM-5PM 31 Virgin Islands Puerto Rico Friendship Exhibit Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Features Puerto Rico artists Alberto Ortiz Collazo, Emily Vando Abrazo and others. See the show at the Museum in Frederiksted or on the website; Hoping to do a live stream as well. Stay tuned. www.cmarts.com 340-772-2622 December 20 / Januar y 21 • 5

Events Calendar TAKE TIME FOR THESE! 19 SATURDAYS, 11AM-1PM Candle Making Class Cultured Naturals, Company Street Call or text to register (340) 626-8232, $60pp; 6 persons per class.

JAN 15 – 30. Artist Guild of St. Croix Show, Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts. Cathy Booth

5 SATURDAY, ALL DAY, START TIME TBA “Bioblitz” at the Southgate Coastal Preserve St. Croix Environmental Association Teams of community volunteers identify flora and fauna at the Nature Preserve, East End Road between Cheeseburgers and Chenay Bay. Live broadcast schedule posted on FB the week before at www.stxenvironmental.org. 340-773-1989 5 SATURDAYS, 11AM-1PM Candle Making Class Cultured Naturals, Company Street Call or text to register at 340-626-8232, $60pp, 6 persons per class 11 FRIDAY, 7-8 PM “Ah Glow In The Park-A Crucian Chandelier of Lights,” Limpricht Park Virtual Broadcast-WTJX Public Television, Annual Inkberry Tree Lighting Festival on King Street, Christiansted! After the ceremony, residents and visitors can drive by or walk by to view display day or night. Covid-19 guidelines to be followed; FB, Crucian Cultural 340-626-6477 or 340-277-1754. 11 THROUGH JANUARY 10, DAY OR NIGHT “Ah Cultural Gallery Point of View” Art @ Top Hat Gallery, Company Street Showcase windows of traditional cultural items and scenarios by Teddy’s Park & Rentals. Drive or walk, day or night. FB, Crucian Cultural Group. Drive or Walk, day or night. FB Crucian Cultural Group. 340-692-2787 or 340-643-9888. 18 FRIDAY, 6-8 PM, LOCATION, TBA “Culture, Heritage & Tradition Lantern Parade’ Annual Christiansted Parade will be mobile this year—“Lanterns On Deh Move!” Follow details on FB, Crucian Cultural Group. 340-626-0837 or 340-643-5356. 6 • December 20 / Januar y 21

30 WEDNESDAY THROUGH JANUARY 30 $700 Creative Callaloo Visual Arts Scholarship Online Application! Danica M. David, author of Creative Callaloo: Art, Poems, and Recipes Inspired by the VirginIslands, would like to assist the next generation of visual artists, knowing its importance as the preservation and expression of culture, from book sales and other projects. Open to high school or college students pursuing a degree in the visual arts. Application and details online. Deadline, January 30. www.creativecallaloo.com/scholarship.

JAN 10. 17th Annual Dolphins Sea Swim, Frederiksted Pier.

JANUARY 2021

14 THURSDAY, 4:30-6:00PM Local Author Book Signing Undercover Books & Gifts, Gallows Bay Meet Dr. Marni Foderaro, author of “God Came To My Garage Sale.” 340-719-1567

1 THROUGH JANUARY 10, DAY OR NIGHT “Ah Cultural Look Through Deh Window” Teddy’s Party & Rentals, Orange Grove Showcase windows of cultural Christmas themes and scenes. FB Crucian Cultural Group. ccg.allaboutculture@gmail.com. 340-277-6704

15 THROUGH JANUARY 30TH Artist Guild of St. Croix Art Show Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 4pm, Saturday, 9am – 1pm. artistguildostcroix.com, FB, Cathy Booth, 410-299-6933

1 THROUGH JANUARY 10, DAY OR NIGHT “Ah Cultural Gallery Point of View” Art @ Top Hat Gallery, Company Street Showcase windows of traditional cultural items & scenarios by Teddy’s Party & Rentals. FB, Crucian Cultural Group. 340-692-2787 or 340-643-9888.

19 TUESDAYS, 10AM-NOON & 6-8PM Clay Pot Classes for Adults Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Sign up to learn from the pro—Sarah Lee Hayes! Must pre-register. Visit the website for details and cost. www.cmcarts.com, 340-772-2622

1-2 NPR PLEDGE DRIVE WTJX 93.1, VI Public Broadcasting System Celebrating 5 years on the air! Melia Cook, Director of Development, mcook@wtjx.org, 340-690-7293. Donations accepted at www.wtjx.org. 10 SUNDAY, 11AM START; 9:30AM SIGN IN 17th Annual St. Croix Dolphins Sea Swim Frederiksted Pier to Rainbow Beach 1-mile swim, pre-register! $30 by Dec 4, after $45. Fee includes lunch, awards and T-shirt. Swimmers 9 and under welcome with an escort. St. Croix Dolphins, FB; (340)719-7946. www.stcroixdolphins.org 12 TUESDAYS, 10AM-NOON & 6-8PM Clay Pot Classes for Adults Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Sign up to learn from the pro—Sarah Lee Hayes! Must pre-register. Visit the website for details and cost. www.cmcarts.com, 340-772-2622

19 TUESDAY, 6PM WEEZY AWARDS FUNDRAISER Sand Castles on the Beach, Frederiksted Costume contest, drag party & show. Dinner provided by Angie & J.T. from Villa Morales. stx.vi.pride@gmail.com, (205)296-4547 26 TUESDAYS, 10AM-NOON & 6-8PM Clay Pot Classes for Adults Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Sign up to learn from the pro—Sarah Lee Hayes! Must pre-register. Visit the website for details and cost. www.cmcarts.com, 340-772-2622 COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Events will be cancelled if necessary to comply with COVID-19 restrictions; Please check websites, Facebook or text/email prior to events.

Attractions & Tours SOAK UP SOME CULTURE!

ATTRACTIONS PLEASE CALL AHEAD.

MANY OF THESE LISTINGS HAVE SHIFTED DAYS & HOURS OF OPERATION WITH THE PANDEMIC. Arthur Able Complex — 340-772-1000 Built in 1799 and once a Danish School, now the Office of the Governor in Frederiksted. Redesigned by architect William Taylor, it was dedicated to Arthur Abel, a St. Croix joiner and builder, in Sept. 2009. Prince Street, Frederiksted. Caravelle Hotel Casino — 340-773-0687 Newest Slot Machines, Video Poker, Spin Wheel Games, Cash Raffles. In-town Transportation. Days and Hours, see Ad below. Christiansted Block Party Series. Facebook. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts — 340-772-2622. Exhibiting the arts of St. Croix and the Caribbean community. 18th Century Danish townhouse; Artist-in-Residence program. Gift Shop. Annual Calendar. Tues – Sat, 11am – 4 pm. Divi Carina Bay Casino —340-773-7529 Table Games for seasoned players and newcomers. Over 250 Slot, Video Poker, and Multi-game Machines—traditional and video reel. Ticket Play. Live entertainment. Carina Café. Estate Whim Museum— 340-772-0598 Sugar Factory, Mill, Slave Quarters, Great House. Grounds map with guided and self-guided options. Exhibits. Open Wed & Sat, 10am – 3pm; Research. Library by appointment. Ft. Frederik Museum —340-772-2021 Built in the 1750s, this Historic Landmark, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Five permanent collections on display. Open Mon – Fri, 9am – 4pm. See Frederiksted Walking Tour, Pg 58. Government House —340-773-1404 Built for a Danish merchant in 1749, it now houses offices and a Governor’s apartment. Courtyard gardens and sweeping staircase to a 2nd-story ballroom. King Street, Christiansted. Historic Landmark.

advance notice. Mahogany Road, Frederiksted. www.llgfarm.com Lord God of Sabaoth Church — 340-773-1320 Originally a Dutch Reformed Church built in the 1740s, was sold to the Lutherans in 1831. Rehab under the direction of General Peter von Scholten. King Street, Christiansted. One North Street —340-514-7114 Historic and restored Christiansted townhouse. One of the finest collections of antique West Indian Mahogany furniture and artifacts anywhere in the VI. Tours, meetings, luncheons. 24-hour notice. www.stxestatetour.com Pt. Udall Millennium Monument Easternmost point in the US. A giant sundial marks the azimuth of the first sunrise of 2000. Schooner Roseway – 340-626-7877 National Historic Landmark. Gallows Bay, Christiansted. Nov – May. Local Office. Sunset Sails, 4-6pm. Holiday events. www.worldoceanschool.org.

CARIBBEAN MUSEUM CENTER ARTS FOR THE

10 Strand St. F’std 340.772.2622 Tue-Sat 11am-5pm Local Arts • Gift Shop www.cmcarts.org

ONE NORTH

2020

Tour Historic Christiansted Townhouse

Featured in Traditional Home & Magazine Antiques

Hams Bluff Lighthouse—First lit in 1915 under the Danish Government. North of Frederiksted; historic landmark. See Guided Hikes, Pg 9. Lawaetz Family Museum — 340-473-1557 18th Century Danish farm homestead managed by Ridge2Reef Farm and backed by the Lawaetz family. National Historic Registry. Open Wed and Sat, 11am-3pm. Group tours any day with

Lord God of Sabaoth Lutheran Church, Christiansted. Ted Davis

Open, 9am - 1 pm Mon - Sun, Members & Guests Mon - Wed, General Public Verify Hours Before Arrival Museum Store

Details & Pricing —StxEstateTour.com 24-hour notice required • (340) 514 - 7114 December 20 / Januar y 21 • 7

Attractions & Tours

DISCOVER LOCAL LIFE ON ONE OF OUR TOURS! Historical Park & Ecological Preserve exhibit, 2nd floor, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm. 340-773-1460.

St. Croix’s National Parks —340-773-1460

3. Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve Founded in 1992 in cooperation with the VI Government, the Park documents the human and natural Caribbean world of early indigenous settlements here 4000 years ago through the 1500s. Christopher Columbus landed here in 1493. Nature preserve. Closed for major renovations after double hurricanes in 2017. New Visitor’s Center coming; exhibits moved to Ft. Christiasvaern at the Christiansted National Historic Site, Mon – Fri, 10am – 2 pm.

1. Buck Island Reef National Monument Proclaimed a National Monument by President Kennedy in 1961. Spectacular beach, hiking and snorkeling trails. 7 miles from Christiansted. Accessible by NPS Authorized Concessioners; find them in Watersports, Pages 40-42. www.nps.gov/buis 2. Christiansted National Historic Site Established in 1952, includes Ft. Christiansvaern, Old Customs House, Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse & Slave Market, and Old Scale House. The Steeple Building is closed for renovations. Fort open 8:30 am – 4:30 pm daily; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Site parking; public restrooms on Church Street. Salt River

TOURS Botanical Garden of the VI. Ginger Flower Ted Davis

CHANT

Aerial—Scenic, Island Hopping Cape Air, 100 flights a day. 800-CAPE-AIR. See ad Pg 9 for Caribbean destinations. The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands, established in 1972. Sixteen acres, 1500 native and exotic species. Restored buildings and ruins of a 19th century Danish sugar cane plantation. Open daily, 9 am – 1 pm, except Christmas. Museum Store. Nursery open First Saturdays, 9am – 2pm. 340-692-2874.

Crucian, Heritage & Nature Tourism

Christiansted — “Alexander Hamilton’s Christiansted,” Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (CHANT), Thursdays, 9:45am, minimum 2 guests. 340-277-4834. www.chantvi.org. Danish—Christiansted, Frederiksted, Island, Nina York, (English, too). 340-332-4451.

 Historical Walking Tours  Nature Hikes & Tours

(340) 277-4834 • www.chantvi.org

Frederiksted — Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (CHANT), 340-277-4834. Horseback — Beach, Rainforest, Ruins. Cruzan Cowgirls, 907-841-1990.

1 North Street. Tour a West Indian Kitchen and more! 8 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Leatherback Brewing Company VI — Authentic VI Craft Beer, Brewery and Tasting Room. Brews & cans 4 styles a year with Limited Releases. Casual food, Island Life store, self-tours, indoor & outdoor bar. Roebuck Industrial Park, just west of the airport, 340-772-BEER (2337), www.leatherbackbrewing.com, FB

Attractions & Tours

TRY LOCAL BREWS—RUM, BEER, VODKA! Ridge to Reef Farm—Certified Organic. Tours and farm stays in camp-style eco lodging. Workshops in permaculture, agroforestry, and living skills. 340-473-1557, ridge2reef.org Rum Distilleries — Captain Morgan Visitor Center, Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. Gift Shop, 340-713-5654; Cruzan Rum Distillery, Visitors Pavilion & Store, 9:30am – 4pm, M-F. Tours, 10am – 3pm. 340-692-2280. Sion Farm Distillery, MUTINY ISLAND VODKA — Caribbean’s first & finest Island Vodka hand crafted from breadfruit. Distilled and bottled on St. Croix. Craft cocktails, flight tastings, micro-batch releases, chefcreated menu, free tours, AC. Happy Hour, Mon-Fri, 4-6pm. Bright blue, iconic Island Dairies Building, Sion Farm. 340-690-9322, www.sionfarmdistillery.com, FB West Indian Townhouse – 340-514-7114 Historic 1760 site, fine West Indian furniture and artifacts. Tour includes an informal and entertaining Caribbean history lesson! 24-hour notice. Two blocks off the Christiansted boardwalk. www.stxestatetour.com

Roseway. Sail on a National Historic Landmark Schooner!

World Ocean School

PLEASE CALL AHEAD. MANY OF THESE LISTINGS HAVE SHIFTED DAYS & HOURS OF OPERATION WITH THE PANDEMIC.

Sion Farm Distillery. Come for a taste, grab a bite, and see how its made and bottled. December 20 / Januar y 21 • 9

Shop Duty-Free! LOCAL MARKETPLACE!

$1600.00

DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCE! For US citizens, this is

DOUBLE the $800.00 limit from other islands! Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will allow visitors to the USVI to enter the US with up to $1600.00 per person of duty-free purchases. ib designs. Get stacked at ib designs.

CHRISTIANSTED COMPANY STREET Asha World Designs – +1-340-690-6512 Climb the steps next to Common Cents Pub and you will find the marvelous ASHA shop. British owner Sarajane sells eclectic world adornments and attire gleaned from her extensive global travels. Her signature clothing line is hand made with pride in India, Thailand and Bali using hand block printed, hand loomed natural fabrics with globally sourced fabulous prints. To compliment the ASHA collection you will find a treasure trove of unique jewelry designs, accessories, gifts, textiles and homewares. This season also brings Pitchulik, Mungo, Erika Peña, Björg, some exciting collaborations and several new capsule clothing lines from emerging world designers. www.ashaworlddesigns.com, @ashaworlddesigns

Leeanne Morancie

EBBE’S STORE – 340-773-3020

Approaching their 50thAnniversary, opened by her parents in 1969, Vivian Ebbesen-Fludd swings open the shutters of EBBE’S STORE five days a week to welcome you in. The early-style, open-air storefront still remains today and inside you will find “a little bit of this, a little bit of that, a little bit of this and that.” Madras fabric in dozens of patterns, school plaids and solids, clear and printed plastic table coverings, craft and notion supplies, infant and children’s clothing, men’s and women’s accessories, local books, towels, fans, beautiful ribbon and lace, and gifts, just to name a few! Located on the corner of King Cross and Company Street, open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, and Sat, 11:30am – 5:30pm. Closed Wed and Sun. Facebook.

JOINT DECLARATION

This is a Customs Declaration that can be made by family members who live in the same household and return to the United States together. These travelers can combine their purchases to take advantage of a combined flat duty rate, no matter which family member owns a given item. The combined value of merchandise subject to a Flat Duty Rate for a family of four traveling together would be $4,000. Purchase totals must be rounded to the nearest dollar amount.

ALCOHOL

If you are at least 21 years old, you may also take up to five liters of alcohol duty-free as part of your $1,600 exemption, as long as at least four liters were purchased in the USVI, and at least one of them is a product of the USVI, like Cruzan Rum. Liquor boxes are free to check aboard your return flight.

TOBACCO

Returning resident travelers may import tobacco products only in quantities not exceeding the amounts specified in the personal exemptions for which the traveler qualifies. See below for up-to-date specifics on Customs Duty information concerning Rates, Duty-Free Shop articles, and Mailing and Shipping Goods.

EBBE’S STORE EBBE’S STORE ~Est. 1969~ ~Est. 1969~

~Est. 1969~

“A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That”

LEARN MORE

Diego Conde

4 King Cross Street Christiansted - 340-773-3020

US Customs & Border Protection www.cbp.gov • (877) 287-8667

EbbesStoreInfo@gmail.com

On the Corner Where King Cross Meets Company 10 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Ebbe’s Store. Madras! A cultural favorite!

Shop Duty-Free! TRY IT, LOVE IT, BUY IT! ib designs – 773-4322 (say “eye-bee”)

An island favorite in historic Christiansted, this gallery is home to the distinctive designs of local artist/metalsmith, Whealan Massicott. Whealan has been crafting for over 25 years and is fortunate to have a fabulous team of artisans join him in creating magical jewelry. Being a musician at heart allows life’s movements, patterns, and rhythms to play out in his raw, organic designs. Ib designs Feel Good Jewelry is a salute to the simplicity of life and to the inspiration of creativity. Truly artful, truly unique, truly Caribbean! Feel Good Jewelry for Feel Good People. Stop in to say hi to Whealan, Kris, and the rest of the ib family. Find us on Facebook. www.islandboydesigns.com.

Eden South. Authentic Crucian Treats!

Asha World Designs. Indian spinning rings.

Eden South – 340-998-5186

Located at historic #3 Company Street, Eden South is an unexpected oasis of divine and authentic Crucian treats. Visit with us online at www.edensouth.com to see our line of preserves and syrups from old-time recipes, books by local authors, painting and photography by local artists, natural crafts by local artisans, greeting cards, jewelry, colorful linens, rainforest and recipe t-shirts, and our own Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce, prepared in small batches. We are dedicated to bringing you the best time-honored traditions of St. Croix to help you express Crucian culture, wherever you may be.

E•den [eed-nsouth] south] n: The St. Croix E•denSouth, South, [eed-n n: The Best Best of St. of Croix E•den South, [eed-n south] n: The Best of Croix Tastes of History Within Your Reach Tastes of History Within Your St. Reach Handcrafted Preserves & Syrups Tastes of History Within Your Reach ■■Handcrafted Preserves & Syrups

■ Rainforest-Inspired Tees, All Ages ■ Preserves & Syrups ■■Handcrafted Rainforest-Inspired Tees, All Ages Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce ■ Rainforest-Inspired Tees, All Ages ■ Jack’s Bay-Pepper Monday Saturday,Sauce 10 am - 4 pm ■Company Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce NowStreet, Online at www.edensouth.com Christiansted • 340-713-1003 Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm Monday - Saturday, 10 •am - 4 pm Company Street, Christiansted •340-998-5186 340-713-1003 Company Street, Christiansted Company Street, Christiansted • 340-713-1003

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 11

Shop Duty-Free!

LOCAL, HANDMADE JEWELRY A MUST! COMPANY STREET....cont The Shoe Bar – 340-713-1445

Located at 55 Company Street, The Shoe Bar is St. Croix’s premier shoe boutique, carrying styles for both men and women. Ladies can select from bcbg, Chinese Laundry,Vince Camuto, Jessica Simpson, Nine West, Bandolino, Naots and more. For the Gents, we have Nunn Bush (a Florsheim brand), Clarks, Kenneth Cole and Naots sandals and dress shoes. We are very proud to be the only authorized dealer for Naots in the Virgin Islands. Stop by and enjoy a glass of wine while you shop! Open Monday – Saturday, 10 am -5 pm. Facebook, The Shoe Bar VI.

SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry – 340-778-8605

Joyia Inspirational Jewelry. The Story Collection... The 3 dots are a reminder of your story; past, present and the magical times to come.

Hook up with the Original- Sonya’s St. Croix Hook. Located at #1 Company Street since 1964, an introduction to the hand-wrought jewelry at Sonya’s begins with the pleasantly inexpensive hook bracelet which is often imitated, never duplicated. Our designs include: hurricanes, hearts, flowers, sea life, breast cancer awareness, and so much more. All

Hotheads. Fun, trendy shop from head to toe!

creations are crafted in sterling silver, 14 & 18 karat gold—bracelets, rings, earrings, and pendants. Our loyal customers continue to vote our jewelry #1 in the Virgin Islands. Visit us at www.sonyaltd.com Toll-free: 877-766-9284.

KINGS ALLEY Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts – 305-896-3135

Friendliest gift shop on St. Croix! We specialize in unique island jewelry featuring sea

Top Shoe Brands ■ Men’s ■ Women’s A glass of wine while you shop.

BCBG, Jessica Simpson, Vince Camuto, Nunn Bush, Clarks, & Naots, just to name a few. 55 Company Street • 340-713-1445 12 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Shop Duty-Free! SUNDRESSING!

KING STREET Susan Mango – 512-689-7049

Step into Susan Mango, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of colorful, fun, creativity! Explore unique clothing, accessories and treasures from Susan’s exotic travels where she partners with talented women in developing countries. Together, they collaborate and create women’s clothing, sandals, jewelry, handbags and home decor pieces to delight YOU! Additionally, you’ll find the largest selection of indoor/ outdoor fabrics on St Croix! With a passion for interior design, Susan has helped many local residents and businesses create stunning interiors. Follow Susan Mango on Facebook and Instagram. Text/call Susan, email her at susan@susanmango.com or better yet, pop into Susan Mango boutique at 54 King Street, Christiansted, across from Government House and next to Fanta Sea Jewelry and The Courtyard. Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts. Handmade wearable art!

glass and Chaney. Why not treat yourself or a friend to something truly special such as a stunning ocean inspired piece of jewelry? Come in to see our one of a kind collection of sea glass and Chaney pendants, earrings and bracelets. If you find your own sea glass or Chaney treasure, we can also design a special piece just for you. We also carry locally made hot sauce, jams, coffee, art, Christmas décor, books and much more. Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts is located just off the Christiansted boardwalk behind Brew STX in King’s Alley. Open Monday - Saturday from 10am to 5pm. Find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts Friendliest gift shop on St. Croix

Sea Glass & Chaney Island Jewelry Pendants • Earrings • Bracelets • Local Hot Sauce Jams • Coffee • Art • Christmas décor • Local Books Kings Alley, off the Christiansted boardwalk Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm • (305) 896-3135

Susan Mango. ‘Parisian Party’ Dresses!

Resort Wear Sandals Handbags Jewelry Fabrics Home Decor (512) 689-7049 54 King Street Christiansted

Susan Mango is owned by a local St. Croix designer and features her brand (and other favorites). Interior Design Services also available.

SusanMango

Mention this ad for a FREE gift December 20 / Januar y 21 • 13

Shop Duty-Free! BUY LOCAL!

sizes including hard-to-find separates, cup sizes, long torso, and attractive styles for full-figured women. We also carry colorful sarongs, cover-ups, bags, great accessories, casual and dressy clothing, and sandals. And…the reason for the name – hats, hats, and more hats! Visit our store on Queen Cross Street near Strand. We’re open 7 days a week, Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm and Sundays, 11 am – 4 pm.

JOYIA-Inspirational Jewelry – 340-713-4JOY (4569)

Sonya’s Fine Island Jewelry. Everyone wishes for Silver and Gold! Shop the original hook bracelet. Sonyaltdstore.com

QUEEN CROSS STREET Baci Duty Free – 340-773-5040 On the corner of Queen Cross and Strand Street, Baci has been here to serve you for the past 24 years! See our large assortment of local hand-made island hook bracelets in silver, gold and black/gold/silver Titanium. Try on St. Croix’s most-wanted designer USA hand-made stacking bracelet by Vahan in silver and gold with diamonds and other gem stones. Chaney, Larimar, Lafonn, St. Croix beads for Pandora, Atocha ship wreck and Greek, Roman coin jewelry. South Sea Pearl necklaces. Designer sunglasses from Gucci,

Kate Spade, and many more. Polarized sport sunglasses from Costa, Oakley, Maui Jim, Ray-Ban, and Salt Life. Swiss watches from Alpina, Frederick Constant, Luminox, Mido, Swiss Army, and Tissot. Japanese-made from Bering, Casio, Citizen, Guess, Invicta, and Seiko. The largest walk-in cigar humidor in the VI with top-selling brands from Arturo Fuente, Padron, My Father, Monte Cristo, Macanudo and Cohiba. Largest selection of rums from around the world like Ron Zacapa. www.bacidutyfree.com

Fleur - 340-474-0575

Welcome to Fleur! Our sister location to Franklin’s On The Waterfront. Named after our daughter, Fleur, you’ll find your experience as eccentric as the name! Fleur offers items that make your purchase truly heartfelt and unique. Because we seek far and wide to bring you the most interesting creations, you can rest assured it isn’t being offered elsewhere. And while you browse in peace, you can enjoy a wine-slushy or a cold beverage! It’s truly a oneof-a-kind experience. Fleur can even ship your “items” if your suitcase is full. Dune jewelry (made with local STX sand), local artwork and crafts, home decor, unique gifts, and fabulous to funky finds for every occasion. Open Sunday 9 am - 1 pm, Monday-Saturday 9 am - 5 pm. FB, IG

Hotheads – 340-773-7888 This trendy shop has swimwear for all shapes and 14 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Artist and jeweler, Joyia Jones, invites you to visit her family-operated studio where we create handcrafted jewelry using silver, gold, and precious stones. Set your intention with our free engraving that allows you to customize your Joyia jewelry with an inspirational word, name, or date. Check out our collection of one-of-a-kind antique spoon pendants, cuffs, and rings. Jump on the trend of mixing metals with our stackable rings and bangles and don’t forget to take a look at our unique square jewelry – we have square rings, bangles, and necklaces! Be inspired. Be creative. Be intentional. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram! Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm. Queen Cross Street www.joyiajewelry.com

Tropical Bracelet Factory Outlet – 340-719-0672

We are not only a store but an attraction not to be missed specializing in magnificent jewelry made on the premises. See how your special piece is designed, created, and finished through our studio’s glass windows. View our extensive collection of stainless steel, copper, platinum, gold, and silver earrings, pendants, and rings. We have the largest selection of island bracelets, chaney, Larimar, conch, diamonds of all colors and sizes, certified ancient coins, natural pearls including the most unique of them all— “The Queen Conch Pearl.” Free rum samples from our extensive liquor collection available daily. Stop in for a rare cigar to commemorate your vacation. Known

Fleur’s. Findings as unique as the name!

Shop Duty-Free! WHAT’S IN STORES!

MON - SAT, 10AM - 6PM QUEEN CROSS & STRAND ST, CHRISTIANSTED 340-773-5040 - 340-332-4449 BACIDUTYFREE.COM LARGEST SELECTION OF CIGARS IN THE VI! STATE-OF-THE-ART WALK-IN CEDAR HUMIDOR.

Baci Duty Free. Vahan timeless, luxury jewelry collections since 1968.

for our locally made crafts and collectables, take home a real souvenir made right here on St. Croix. Open Monday – Saturday, 10-6pm.

STRAND STREET

Crucian Gold- 340-244-2996 FEEL THE LOVE and discover how Crucian Gold’s original designs are inspired by St. Croix’s natural beauty and culture. Visit our Christiansted store where Nathan Bishop and our family of jewelers create the Island Bracelets, Chaney Collection, and a wide array of stunning original silver and gold artisan jewelry and gifts. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, FB & IG, www.cruciangold.com

RJS Handmade Designs – 340-642-3291

Expect the best from Jeweler, Rosa Asencio! For over 17 years, her unique, handmade gold and silver jewelry has received the highest level of customer satisfaction. In addition to forging, hammering, texturizing and soldering, Rosa uses the Lost Wax Casting Method – an ancient process dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Although demanding, it rewards the artisan with an object of great individuality. Visit the store to see the complete collections, inspired by the islands beauty and culture. “something is bound to catch your eye!” Strand Street in Christiansted. www.rjshandmadedesigns.com ; FB, IG

f l e u r

A one-of-a-kind experience!

Rosa Asencio Silversmith

• Dune Jewelry (made with local sand) • Unique Gifts • Home Décor • Local Arts & Crafts

(340) 474-0575

Open Sunday 9am-1pm Mon - Sat 9am-5pm Queen Cross Street at Strand, Christiansted

340-642-3291 N ST EW

StranORE! d Stre et

HANDMADE DESIGNS

Strand StreetArcade #5 Strand Street, Caravelle

www.rjshandmadedesigns.com

A RC T I C S A I L I N G For pioneers and global explorers! Multifunctional watches with sapphire cr ystal.

A RC T I C S A I L I N G For pioneers and global explorers! Multifunctional watches with sapphire cr ystal. w w w.bering time.com

w w w.bering time.com

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 15

Shop Duty-Free! FOUND ON ST. CROIX

STRAND STREET cont... Small Wonder – 340-773-5551

A delightful children’s store filled with a large selection of swimsuits, sunhats, sunglasses, St. Croix tee shirts, sundresses & shirts in tropical prints—cool, 100% cotton & linen clothing for boys & girls in sizes from Newborn to Pre-teen. Also find sturdy wooden educational toys, doll houses, rocking horses & train sets by Plan & Brio. Special items include sterling silver feeding spoons, ceramic piggy banks, adorable stuffed animals, dolls & doll furniture, children’s tables & chairs, baby & children’s accessories, plus year-round holiday & event costumes. Layaway & Baby Shower Registry available. Located just steps from the Government Parking lot at 1110 Strand Street.

Sublime STX Sun-Protective Clothing – 340-713-3113

Tropical Bracelet. Local design, locally made—Forever Crucian.

Susan Wall

CARIBBEAN MUSEUM CENTER ARTS FOR THE

Protect your skin & look good doing it! UPF 50 + Protective Clothing Clothing blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays Original artwork licensed from artists Made locally on St. Croix!

10 Strand St. F’std 340.772.2622 Tue-Sat 11am-5pm Document1 1/26/07 10:18 AM Local Arts • Gift Shop www.cmcarts.org

Made on St. Croix, our clothing images of animals, fish, coral, birds, turtles, waves, and more are digitized from licensed original paintings! Lightweight and perfect for swimming, fishing, sailing, snorkeling, diving—anything under the sun—with UPF50+ moisture-wicking fabric. Everything is Sublimation Dyed, so images never fade or wear off, becoming part of the fabric. We have a great selection of long and short sleeve shirts in men, women, youth and toddler styles plus dresses, sarongs, and buffs. Rounding it out is Pura Veda reef-friendly organic sun block and after sun products, sunglasses, locallycrafted jewelry, and sandals. Located in the Caravelle Arcade between Dashi Restaurant and The Remedy. Stop by and try a complimentary sample of locally-brewed Leatherback beer. Page 1 www.sublimestx.com, Facebook. Mention this ad for 15% off!

FREDERIKSTED CMCA Gift Shop – 340-772-2622

Located in the Caravelle Arcade in Christiansted Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5pm

(340) 713-3113 www.sublimestx.com

16 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Just Steps from the Gov’t Parking Lot!

Tropical print Sundresses & Shirts Swimsuits and Sunglasses Sunhats St. Croix Tee Shirts Sun Hats, Swimsuits & Dresses Wooden Toys 4 Company St., Christiansted 1110 Strand Street, Christiansted

340-773-5551

Local Art & Crafts at your fingertips—Annual “Island Art & Soul” Calendars (buy online), Books, Cloth and Carved Bowls, Greeting Cards, Home Accessories, Jewelry, Dolls, Glass, Beaded, and Shell Ornaments, Paintings, Pottery, Prints, Tee Shirts, Tiles, Wall Hangings, and Wire Sculptures. Inventory changes regularly so check us out often! Visit the new Gift Shop at Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, housed in an 18thcentury Danish townhouse on the Waterfront, Strand Street, Frederiksted. Open Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 5 pm and ‘Cruise Ship Days.’ www.cmcarts.org. Like us on Facebook!

and craft center

One of the largest manufacturers of fine jewelry in the USVI

340.719.0672

www.islandbracelets.com

On the corner of Queen Cross and Strand Streets, Christiansted.

Shop Duty-Free! SHOP TIME, TAKE TIME! FREDERIKSTED cont... Franklin’s on the Waterfront – 340-473-0222 Truly unique and awe-inspiring finds! Custom made jewelry with local STX sand by Dune, local artwork and crafts, Mary Frances purses, Olivia Riegel pieces, Erbario Toscano diffusers, Vietri, Voluspa candles, Cigars, and fun, funky finds that are always changing. And don’t worry- we offer shipping if you “have” to have it but can’t take it with you if visiting. We work with individuals and vendors worldwide to provide a shopping experience as special as your occasion. Don’t settle for ordinary when we offer extraordinary! Located directly off the Frederiksted pier since 2011, offering the best and friendliest experience around. Let us show you true Caribbean hospitality and enjoy the view of our beautiful sea. It just doesn’t get any better! Open Sunday 8 am - 1 pm, MondaySaturday 8 am - 5 pm. FB Sublime STX. Grace and Mikey at The Deep End.

FRANKLIN’S ON THE WATERFRONT Unique finds from funky to fabulous!

DUNE JEWELRY MADE FROM LOCAL SAND! GIFTS | LOCAL ART | HOME DÉCOR Bath/Body • Beach/Travel • Cards • Cigars Picture Frames • Handbags • Sunscreen • Liquor Souvenirs • Sunglasses • Reed Diffusers Candles • Masks • Brumate Insulated Drinkware

Strand Street, Frederiksted, across from the Pier. (340) 473-0222 18 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Franklin’s on the Waterfront. Tassie Fairy Dolls.

GALLOWS BAY

Rare Finds – 340-713-9254 This fascinating shop is found at the gateway to Gallows Bay — turn left on East End Road at the By-Pass traffic light. Here you’ll discover an assortment of different, fun gifts and collectibles. Open Wednesday thru Saturday, they offer something old, something new, something for every taste and budget. Browse here for a memento of St. Croix.

Antiques, Unique Gifts and Collectibles

Open Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat. 10 am - 4 pm At the Gateway to Gallows Bay

340-713-9254

Shop Duty-Free! LOCAL ESSENTIALS!

AROUND THE ISLAND J&H Clothing – 340-244-9861 Can’t seem to find the right outfit? Don’t know what you should wear for a special event? Come see Tamika at J&H Clothing, a small fashionable boutique with women’s dresses, active wear, and swimwear, and men’s shirts, jeans, cultural tees, hats and more! We offer classic brand polos from Lacoste and Ralph Lauren. Our goal is to provide a variety of modern choices that can be worn for ANY occasion. Find us upstairs at Watapana Mall across from Plaza Extra East over Martha’s Deli. Open Mon – Thurs 10 am - 5 pm and Fri – Sat 10 am – 6 pm. Can’t wait to see you! Facebook.

RJS Handmade Designs. Delicate expressions in silver.

Undercover Books & Gifts. Corkcicle Canteens & Tumblers.

Undercover Books – 340-719-1567 If you are looking for an independent bookstore in St. Croix, Undercover Books & Gifts in Gallows Bay is it. The Bistro is located right next door, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee after browsing the shelves. Undercover has everything you need in a bookstore. You will find the latest in fiction, and non-fiction as well as a fantastic children’s section. Don’t be surprised if you run into one or two local writers while you’re there; they have a great local interest selection and provide a comprehensive representation of the local talent. Open Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm, Sat, 10 am – 4:30 pm. www.undercoverbooksstcroix.com

Undercover Books & Gifts

Fresh Produce. Bakery. Gourmet Cheeses. Full Service Butcher. Deli. Salad & Soup Bar. Hot Prepared Foods. Extensive Selection of Wine, Beer & Liquor

Gallows Bay, St. Croix

Phone: 719-1567 Phone: 340-719-1567 December 20 / Januar y 21 • 19

Shop Duty-Free! TAKE HOME HANDMADE!

and the work of some of St. Croix’s best-known artists. Our inventory is huge, and we’re adding to it all the time! We’re also happy to special order. Tuesday - Saturday, 10am – 4 pm, www.sweetlimefurnishings.com, Facebook

The Museum Store – 340-692-2874 The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands Museum Store specializes in botanically themed gifts, books and local art. Offering tasteful home decor and dazzling jewelry designs matched only by the Garden itself! If you’re a cook you’ll find one of the best collection of cookbooks on the island and other kitchen items. There’s great stuff for kids as well, with a focus on toys and books that are both fun and educational. Remember your trip to the Botanical Garden and St. Croix with a memento from The Museum Store. Open Mon - Sat, 10 - 4 pm & cruise ship days.

Crucian Gold. Each one different, each handmade, each with special meaning to you.

AROUND THE ISLAND cont... Plaza Extra East – 340-778-6240 Great Price. Right Value. With great low prices, Plaza Extra East features thousands of your favorite grocery store brands as well as foreign specialty foods, bulk packaged items, a full service bakery, deli, and prime meat counter. Plaza offers a large produce section featuring fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, including locally grown items. In addition to a wide selection of wine and spirits, Plaza Extra East is also home to Doctors Choice Pharmacy. Conveniently located in Peter’s Rest, Plaza Extra East is your one stop, shopping destina-

tion for all your grocery, home, and personal care needs. www.plazaextraeast.com

Sweet Lime Furnishings – 340-719-6360 Want that WOW factor in your home or condo? Sweet Lime Furnishings, on Constitution Hill, can help you get it, with indoor furniture made from teak, mahogany and other durable hardwoods; outdoor furniture in elegant unfinished teak, man-made wicker over aluminum frames or durable plastic lumber with a 20-year warranty; comfy sofas and chairs in washable or Sunbrella fabrics; exotic, one-of-a-kind pieces

Open Doors.

Leisure Travel to the Territory resumed on September 19 and we welcome you back! The USVI Department of Tourism has set up a very helpful website for a carefullyplanned and safe arrival into the Territory. This USVI Travel Screening Portal is located at www.usviupdate.com and guides you as to what precautions need to be taken before you leave and what to expect when you arrive.

Out & About.

, Polos coste re Tees a L u ! New Cult Stock pbacks n I ’S Sna MEN colors! Tees y s n n a ps - ear a e o m J T g s t s Tank - Dresse & Gym Peters Res , m S 0 m i ’ 7 p w N . 5 t S m ll R ME WO s - Jeans apana Ma Thurs 10-a6pm k t s a m n e a a W u 0 T t T Sat 1 861 airs a Fri - ) 244 - 9 Upst (340 20 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Once you are here, NO MASK/NO SERVICE is in effect everywhere along with social distancing. The Department of Tourism website will fill you in on what you need to know about taxis and safaris, shopping, restaurants and food trucks, bars and nightclubs, curfews, casinos, golf courses and tennis courts, professional grooming services, churches, and beaches. Visitors or residents with tourism-related inquiries can call 800-372-USVI (8784). The Territory continues to evaluate its policies; all guidance is subject to change.

USVI Dept of Tourism | 800-372-USVI (8784)

December 20 / Januar y 21 â&#x20AC;˘ 21

Shop Duty-Free! TELL ME WHERE TO GO SHOPPING!

FIND IT HERE! Art @ Top Hat

Art / Crafts / Paintings/Fabric Bath, Body & Hair/ Supplements Beach / Travel Gadgets Binoculars Books / Cards Cameras Cigar Humidor Clothing - Children Clothing - Men Clothing - Women Coffee / Tea / Condiments Crystal / China Fashion Accessories Fashion Eyewear/Sunglasses Handbags/Totes Home Furnishings/Accessories Jewelry Liquor Local Fruits / Preserves / Produce Music CD’s Pet Supplies Shoes / Sandals / Hats Souvenirs / Gifts Sunscreen Supermarket / Deli / Bakery Swimwear Tee Shirts Toys Watches

Easy Shopping Guide

Asha World Designs

F F F

Baci Duty Free Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts

F F

Christa’s Art Gallery

F F F F F

F F

CMCA Gift Shop

F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F

Fleur Franklin’s on the Waterfront

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ib designs J&H Clothing Joyia Inspirational Jewelry Plaza Extra East

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Plaza Extra West

RJS Handmade Designs Seaside Market & Deli

Small Wonder Sonya, Ltd. Sublime STX Susan Mango Sweet Lime Furnishings The Museum Store

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The Shoe Bar Tropical Bracelet Factory Undercover Books & Gifts

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Hotheads

Rare Finds

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Cultured Naturals Body Care Eden South

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Crucian Gold Ebbe’s Store

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22 • December 20 / Januar y 21

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REFLECTIONS ON ST. CROIX THIS WEEK’S 50 YEARS ANNIVERSARY

YEARS

by Nina York

1971-2021

eaching the age of half a century is a major milestone in a person’s life. For most individuals, it happens as one has become well established but still has plenty of ideas and creative energy. And it would not be improper to apply that deﬁnition to ST. CROIX THIS WEEK that has evolved from a modest one-sheet mimeographed text sheet in 1970 put together by an enterprising continental woman whose brother led the island’s museum and historical Society. Marjorie King had followed her brother Lee Platt in discovering the appeal of this 84-square mile island and, along with a cadre of private-sector Tourism promoters like Betty Sperber and Sally Cramer, saw the potential for larger-scale niche tourism avoiding crowds but emphasizing quality.

From her elegant beachside villa in Estate Shoys, Marge King as she Margot Bachman St. Thomas Source was known to the community, dreamed up a basic publication letting visitors and snowbird residents in on what events taking place that week would be of interest to them. It is hard for us today to realize how limited means of communication were and investing

1978

magazine – still on pink paper but including full color cover pages and informative sections on shopping, dining, exploring the island, maps, events, watersports, transportation, history – was impressive, tied to the island’s progress as a visitor destination.

1990

in advertising was seldom undertaken because of cost. The grapevine was the preferred source, and the first issues, then known as This Week in St. Croix, soon became a popular, free means of promoting a growing array of fun and interesting activities taking place on the island. Old-timers on St. Croix will remember The Pink Sheet, which became the nickname of Marge’s publication as it developed into a slightly larger edition that eventually attracted the attention of Margot Bachman, a highly accomplished businesswoman with residence in St. Thomas, where she had started St. Thomas This Week for the much larger tourism sector of that island. Her purchase of ST. CROIX THIS WEEK allowed the two publications to follow a similar layout, skillfully created by designer Kevin Amsler whose name until recent years has been identified as the creative director of both publications. A business office was set up in what today is St. Croix Kidney Center near Altoona Lagoon. The small staff included journalist Jan Gernon, office manager Karin Mahar, and distribution was handled for numerous years by Roderick Lake. An arrangement of distributing the publications, as people boarded the American Airlines flights to the respective islands, was an added advantage for the recognition of both St. Thomas and St. Croix as playing a leading role. The growth from a single sheet to a substantial

Then came September 17, 1989 – Hurricane Hugo, bringing to a sudden stop not only all tourism but lack of power and no establishments to advertise. Editor Jan Gernon had been away during Hugo and was griefstricken enough to quit her job. The oﬃce was closed never to reopen. A call went out for a new editor, and my friend Susie Tomb was asked but declined as she was about to write a book about Hurricane Hugo. She suggested I apply. Serendipitously, I had met Margot in November 1989 at a cocktail party at my sister-in-law’s home in Stonington, Connecticut, where Margot also happened to have a residence. So, in early 1990 my interview went smoothly despite my lack of recent editing job experience, and I now found myself with yet another job, purportedly part-time, but all-encompassing just the same. Jan Gernon

continued on page 59

1995

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 23

OUT OPEN FOR TAKE- P CURBSIDE PICK-U DELIVERY SPACED SEATING

Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED

Vegan and gluten- free options! Sip a cup of coffee, relax, and take a peek at our latest ‘artist-of-themonth’ works on display. Most weekends, we offer Art, Yoga, or Wine and Food Workshops; schedule on our Facebook page. Open Monday - Saturday, 8 am 6 pm; give us a call for drive-thru or pick-up service! We’re available for private parties up to 50 people. www.thecoutyardstx.com, Facebook.

BREW STX – 340-719-6339 BREW STX is the only restaurant and microbrewery located on the beautiful Christiansted boardwalk. The two-level waterfront venue provides spectacular views and upscale bar fare! The menu features a variety of shareable appetizers, handhelds, fresh fish dishes, steak dinners, and many vegetarian options including a ‘build-your-own’ salad or rice bowl! Enjoy one of the HOUSE brews on tap created right on site! (Full bar available). Kitchen open 11 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week. Live music weekly. Facebook & Instagram. Café Christine | Art Gallery – 340-713-1500 Nestled in a quiet historic courtyard, Café Christine offers fresh salads & small batch cuisine, using local ingredients when available. House-made desserts. Menu changes daily but includes signature dishes like Vegetarian Platter, Croque Monsieur or Madame, Dark Chocolate Flourless Torte and Coconut Pie. You might also see Salmon Spread with Mixed Greens, Artichoke, Mushroom and Chevre Quiche, Basmati Rice with Fresh Pineapple Salsa or Linguine with Portobello Mushroom Cream Sauce. Open Tuesday – Friday, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm, reservations recommended. Join us for a glass of wine, a lovely lunch and admire the local artwork in the cafe. A unique setting, not to be missed; a best kept

The best spot on the Boardwalk for The best spot on the Boardwalk for Burgers & Beer! Burgers & Beer! KITCHEN OPEN: KITCHEN OPEN: Mon-Thurs 11-10 Mon-Thurs 11-10 FRI & SAT 11-11 FRI & SAT 11-11 SUN 11-9 SUN 11-9

340-773-3400 340-773-3400 BAR BAR OPEN OPEN LATE! LATE!

340-719-6339 340-719-6339 24 • December 20 / Januar y 21

The Mill Boardwalk Bar and Brick Oven Pizza. Ravioli Pizza, Alla sauce, Spinach, Mozzarella.

secret... until now. Company Street in Apothecary Hall. Menu posted daily on Instagram and Facebook. The Courtyard - 340-773-7728 Right across the street from Government House on King Street, you’ll find the hidden oasis called The Courtyard. Known for its locally-sourced, organic cold press juices, and fresh fruit smoothies, they now offer soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche along with

Bistro / Art Gallery TUESDAY - FRIDAY 11:30 AM - 2:30PM 6 COMPANY STREET, CHRISTIANSTED UP THE STAIRS AT APOTHECARY HALL (340) 713-1500

Farm fresh food in a historic courtyard setting

Dynamite Tacos – 340-713-5550 Dynamite Tacos is St. Croix’s best kept secret that you must experience for yourself! Serving street style tacos, perfectly blended frozen margaritas, and a variety of Mexican beer—there’s something for everyone. Located in the Pan Am Pavilion next to Shupe’s on the Boardwalk, this walk-up window makes it easy to grab a quick bite to eat. Choose between house-marinated beef barbacoa, pork carnitas, mojo chicken, or roasted veggie tacos with your choice of sides and daily specials. Takeout and catering available; just call to place your order. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 40 Eats & Drinks – 340-692-0524 Located in the heart of Christiansted, the newly renovated and reimagined 40 Eats & Drinks will be a must stop for visitors and locals alike. This establishment will focus on TO-GO items with curbside pick-up, as well as proper social distancing dine-in options. A fun menu awaits those who enter, with choices for everyone. They will revive the Danish open face sandwich, the Smorrebrod, as well as the classic Mac and Cheese Shoppe. Over 5 soups daily, an inspired salad selection and creative Pot Pies are just the start to your mouth-watering experience at 40. The Grab-n-Go section will have snacks, bottles of wine and fun oddities to entertain your senses. Brunch will be served Saturday & Sunday; creative new specials. Open 11am to 7pm Mon - Fri & 9am to 3pm Sat & Sun. Downtown Christiansted has hosted a myriad of incredible restaurants, and the owners of 40 Eats & Drinks are proud to continue that tradition. Grounded Café – 340-626-9993 Grounded Cafe began at Victorious Believers Ministries as an outreach to encourage visitors to come and have coffee before service. With this in mind, we opened our first location at the VIYA

The Courtyard. Butternut Squash Bowl!

Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED

ahead! All three locations open at 7am. www.groundedcafevi.com, IG, FB, T.

Dynamite Tacos. Mojo Chicken or Roasted Veggie Tacos w/Guacamole..

building that had everything but a Grounded Cafe! We’re now also on Strand Street in Christiansted and the Sunny Isle Food Court. We use Fair Trade beans, Roots Java from Rwanda in fresh blends made to order. Nitro Brew available. With our hot and cold brewed beverages, signature sandwiches, specialty drinks, hand-crafted salads, soups, fresh-baked novelties, and desserts, Grounded Café is more than coffee, we’re an experience! See our complete Menu online. Get the Grounded Café App at your App Store and order

Luncheria — 340-773-4247 This restaurant is an institution on St. Croix - a taste of Mexico in Christiansted for 37 years! All the locals know owner, Lenny, and Louie, bartender on Thursday and Friday evenings, making the best Margaritas your way! Enter through the big pillars and follow the Danish brick wall up to the bar for ordering. Enjoy all your favorites, at casual tables in a terraced, outdoor courtyard - Nachos, Salads, Quesadillas, Burritos, Enchiladas, Tacos and Tostadas. Enjoy “Two’fer Tuesday” with 2 Tacos for $5, and 2 Beers for $5. End then there’s “Thursday Night Tacos,” 2 Tacos for $3, dine in only. Located on Company Street in Apothecary Hall and open Monday - Saturday, 11 am 9 pm, Thursday 11 am - 10 pm, closed Sundays. The Mill Boardwalk Bar and Brick Oven Pizza – 340-643-MILL Very simply put, exceptional harbor views, friendly service, the best Pizza on the island, and more! This open-air, waterfront pizzeria is best described with these notes—Local wood- fired, custom-built brick oven; fresh dough made in-house daily. Charred and chewy crust. Cosa nostra cheese. Open kitchen. Gluten free “anti” pizza menu items. Yellowfin tuna poke. Rum

FRESHLY BREWED FAIR TRADE “ROOTS JAVA” RWANDA COFFEE

Organic & Fresh Signature Sandwiches Specialty Drinks • Salads • Soups Fresh-baked Novelties • Desserts 1 Christiansted - (340) 626-9993 2 VIYA Building - (340) 626-6799 3 Sunny Isle - (340) 626-6339 Open Mon-Sat • Closed Sundays

ORDER ONLINE

Use our Grounded Café App on your smartphone!

www.groundedcafevi.com

340-692-0524

340-643-4729 December 20 / Januar y 21 • 25

Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED

cake ice cream sandwiches. Amazing sunsets. Eclectic mix of locals and visitors. Fast and friendly service. That pretty much sums it up! Open 7 days a week, 11am – 10pm (subject to change). Facebook, Trip Advisor, Instagram.

Only steps from the Boardwalk with a bite for everyone. Local cuisine, Pizza, Wings, and our Famous Beetchz Shrimp. Home of the Crucian Conclusion!

Nate’s Boathouse – 340-692-6283 Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch on our boardwalk patio or in our breezy, open-air restaurant overlooking beautiful Christiansted Harbor. Watch the local fishing boats deliver their daily catch of Wahoo, Tuna, or Mahi-Mahi—we specialize in the fresh seafood brought to our dock every day. Creative dinner options incorporate an eclectic blend of world cuisines along with a unique, affordable wine list. Drink specials from the most complete bar on the island. Open 7 days, 8am – 9pm, ½ -Price Happy Hour, 4–6pm. FB, IG, www.natesboathouse.com Nauti Bar & Grille – 340-718-0544 This is Christiansted’s ‘Sports Bar on the Water’ with HD TVs inside and out. Come ‘Feel the Breeze’ on our waterfront patio, play pool, darts, and cornhole. We are the Home of ‘Real Texas BBQ,’ fresh local seafood, the coldest beer and hand-crafted libations! Also serving up smoked USDA Choice beef brisket, ribs, sausage, chick-

en, seafood and scratch-made food prepared fresh daily. “We smoke the good stuff ” so come out early because it goes fast! Family-friendly, great staff, fun games, dancing! Weekly live events—check our Facebook page for current listings. We’re just off Hospital Street down on the water’s edge. Take a left at the BBQ sign; lots of parking. Open 3 pm until we close, 7 days a week; food service 3 - 10 pm. www.nautibargrille.com, FB Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant – 340-643-4729 First Japanese Teppanyaki Steakhouse inspired restaurant on STX, the area of the historic Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant was originally used to hold people coming off the boat and awaiting medical examinations before being allowed to enter the town and island; notice the coral walls and bars on the windows! Today, come savor our revamped menu, with craft cocktails, a wide array of rums & wines, new teppanyaki section, more sushi, staple starters, and delicious desserts & dessert cocktails...and SAKE BOMBS! Visit our beautiful restaurant and luscious courtyard for a memorable dining experience, Monday to Sunday, from 6 to 10 pm (subject to change). Also inquire about hosting your next social/corporate event with us - catering on-site! Reservations available. Facebook & Instagram for updates and our menu. Tripadvisor.

juices & fitness center

Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tues/Wed/Thurs 7:30am - 2pm Fri/Sat 7:30am - 10pm Sun 8am - 2pm

The Courtyard 2017.indd 1

340-773-7728 www.thecourtyardstx.com

Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House

1/6/17 11:50 AM

340-718-0544 Kings Alley, Christiansted

(340) 713-8899

Takeout & Catering Available

26 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Open weClose. close. Open77days daysaaweek weekat--noon Openuntil Till We BehindBryan’s Bryan’s Marine Marine on the water. Behind water.

Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED / GALLOWS BAY GALLOWS BAY

Seaside Market & Deli. Colorful Holiday Fruit Tarts!

Salty Beetchz-340-713-8899 Located in King’s Alley, Salty Beetchz Bar and Grill is the perfect place to relax and enjoy an eclectic mix of local and stateside cuisine. Whether you want to watch the game or have a nice family dinner, this is the place for you. Just steps away from the Boardwalk, you will find Salty Beetchz large outdoor deck, perfect for dinner or cocktails under the stars and beautiful lighting. With a wide variety of options, you’re sure to find a great bite for everyone on your guest list. Be sure to try the famous Beetchz Shrimp or wrap your night up with the Crucian Conclusion. Take-out and Catering available. Open for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner—Tues/Wed/Thurs 7:30am-2pm, Fri/ Sat 7:30am-10pm, Sun 8am-2pm. Closed Mondays.

Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar – 340-713-0222 This Mexican Restaurant & Sports Bar (little Mexico in Gallows Bay) is owned by Chef Maria Fonrouge—actually from Mexico! They will transport you there with authentic Mexican cuisine— something for everyone—meat lovers to vegan. Burritos and Tacos, made-to-order, are served as fast as you can say “Andale!” Special-value Kids Menu. Margaritas, Sangria, Micheladas, 9 Draft Beers, and Maria’s Signature Drinks made fresh daily. There are 14 TVs for our Sport Fans. Eat in AC or in the courtyard. Kitchen open Monday, 11 am – 9 pm, Tuesday – Saturday, 11 am – 10 pm. Follow us on Facebook for menus and daily specials. Seaside Market & Deli – 340-719-9393 Seaside Market & Deli is St. Croix’s only gourmet market! With a full-service bakery and deli, Seaside offers made-to-order sandwiches, fresh breads, deli meats, and a variety of sweet treats. Shop Seaside for a huge selection of wines, gourmet cheeses, specialty food items, and the freshest meat and seafood on island. We feature a variety of convenient, ready-made foods

Mexican Restaurant & Sports Bar

Authentic Mexican Food

Best Margaritas & 9 Draft Beers on Tap!

LUNCH & DINNER Monday 11 am - 9 pm Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm

340-713-0222 Gallows Bay Marketplace including a fresh soup and salad bar, and a buffet featuring hot entrees and sides plus a large selection of fresh produce, including local selections, and a coffee & juice bar featuring your favorite coffee drinks, fresh squeezed juices and smoothies. Seaside Market & Deli – Eat Fresh. Live Smart. Facebook

SHUPE’S on the Boardwalk – 340-773-3400 Looking for something affordable and quick? Look no further! Shupe’s on the Boardwalk offers casual waterfront dining, featuring fresh, hand-ground burgers, hand-cut fries, chicken wings, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, soft-serve ice cream, and more. All meals served in an easy-travel paper bag. Of course, a full bar at your disposal as well! The best spot on the Boardwalk for burgers and beer! Open Monday – Thursday, 11 am – 10 pm, Friday & Saturday 11 am - 11 pm, Sunday, 11 am – 9 pm. Facebook & Instagram. TOAST Diner – 340-692-0313 This cozy, award-winning diner near the boardwalk waterfront boasts an extremely creative menu including Venezuelan-style arepas, breakfast allday-long, rum cake French toast, the diner burger, biscuits and gravy, the decadent Peanut Butter and Jealous Sandwich, daily specials, and more! While a full bar is available, locals and visitors depend on the Build-Your-Own-Bloody- Mary, and the best coffee on St. Croix! Come with company or come alone and make a new friend. Toast is sure to become the ritual start to your day! Walk-ins only. Phone orders welcome. (facebook, Trip advisor, Instagram, twitter) December 20 / Januar y 21 • 27

Food & Drink FREDERIKSTED

FREDERIKSTED

Beach Side Café — 340-772-1205 or 340-772-1266 The Beach Side Café at Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel in Frederiksted offers fresh catch seafood specials, American and local dishes with tropicallyinspired cocktails and mocktails hand-crafted from local juices, along with our house-made desserts on the island’s best beach for fun-in-the-sun and spectacular sunsets. Open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 8:30 pm, and our fabulous Saturday and Sunday Brunch from 10am until 3pm with dinner following from 4:30 until 8:30. Join us Tuesday and Wednesday for our outdoor grill 11am until 6:30 pm featuring burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, chicken and Mahi sandwiches. Visit Sand Castle on the Beach and the Beach Side Café for everything you’ll need to enjoy a true St. Croix experience. Ciboné – 340-719-2663 Back and even better, Cibone is an exciting, intimate dining experience. Featuring local, farmfresh ingredients and wild-caught seafood, they were an Entre award-winner in the 2017 Taste of

Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch

and Spectacular Sunsets Reservations at 340-772-1266

fine seafood 340-719-2663 28 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Eat With Fred – 340-777-Fred (3733) “A Barefoot Chic” dining experience on Strand Street, Frederiksted! Eat With Fred is an elegant yet casual beachfront dining venue with beautiful West End views and sunsets. Come as you are! Eat With Fred has a relatively small “set” menu with a more expansive Feature Menu each day so that they can focus primarily on locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal St. Croix flavors providing a truly unique culinary experience. At press time, they are offering only Carry Out and Delivery Menus. Visit www.eatwithfred.com for options and pricing and order online!

Beach Side Café. Muddled Pineapple & Jalapeno w/ Tequila, Triple sec, Sweet-Sour.

St. Croix. Located in the charming and historic Limetree Courtyard on King Street, they are open Tuesday – Saturday for dinner, 6 – 10 pm, and on Sunday for Brunch, 10 am – 3 pm. Like us on Facebook!

Six Nine Restaurant & Bar - 340-772-6969 Welcome to Six Nine, Frederiksted’s newest, revitalized restaurant, in the former Pier 69 location! Nestled in the romantic waterfront courtyard in front of Frederiksted Pier, we offer an elegant, outdoor or indoor, dining experience. For dinner, enjoy hand-cut steaks, fresh local seafood, homemade pastas, daily specials, a weekly oyster happy hour, all complimented by a carefully curated and fun wine and cocktail list. Lunch is more casual, offering sandwiches, burgers, fish tacos and more! Follow us on facebook @sixninestx or online at sixninestx.com. Opening at the beginning of November. Reservations highly recommended! Lunch Tues-Sat 12-3pm, dinner Tues-Sat 6-9pm, Sunday Brunch 11-4pm. Tap Deck Bar & Billiards - 340-773-5227 Tap Deck is located on the waterfront in front of Frederiksted Pier! Enjoy an eclectic small bites menu, daily chef specials, domestic and imported draft beer, and an extensive cocktail selection. We offer both inside air-conditioned seating, and outdoor balcony seating with a view of the Pier and the always amazing West End sunset. Come for poke, flatbreads, salads, sliders, our famous Spinach-Artichoke Dip and more, and stay for the inviting atmosphere and professional, fun bartend-

Food & Drink EAST END

smashing view of Green Cay! With a great selection of tropical blender drinks and a diverse menu, there is something for everyone. Come see us for Weeknight Specials – Mango BBQ Ribs, Tuesday, live entertainment—Yoshea on Sax, Wednesday, no entertainment, Thursday, Disco Bingo, Friday, Crab Races, Sunday Brunch, Bill Bass Steel Pans when available. Open Mon – Sat, 7 am – 9 pm, Sun, 8 am – 2 pm. www.newdeepend.com, Facebook.

RS ISE

Photo, Susan Wall

SEE YOU SOON, PAULI, LORI, TAYLOR, & JEDI

Monday Nights

All You Can Eat Local Lobster Fresh Alaskan Crab Leg Seafood Bake! Reservations a Must!

Hours

Deep End Bar & Grill — 340-718-7071 Tucked between Tamarind Reef Resort & Spa and Green Cay Marina sits the Deep End Bar & Grill serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner 6 days a week! Dine undercover, poolside, or on the beach all with a

Cheeseburgers in Paradise – 340-718-1118 We are following all CDC precautions. Please wear a mask at all times unless you are eating or drinking. Serving daily from Noon till 8pm, weekends Noon till 9pm. Friendly atmosphere, open-air seating. Come and enjoy our World Famous Cheeseburgers! We also have veggie burgers, several salads, fish sandwiches, steaks, fried chicken, chicken fried steak and daily mouth-watering Specials. Choose your own unique libation from our full bar or try one of our frozen specialty drinks! East End Road at Southgate. FB

EB S E

Blue Water Terrace – 340-692-BLUE (2583) A restaurant and catering business with a fabulous view across from Buck Island! Specialties are steaks and seafood, ‘Lori’s Famous’ Fried Chicken, BBQ ribs, lasagna, chicken pot pie, hot and cold sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Find Lori’s housemade desserts, ice cream, and local artwork and jewelry in the Market. Open Thursday – Monday, 5 – 9 pm, Sunday Brunch, 10am – 2 pm. Closed Tuesday & Wednesday. Call ahead for reservations, catering parties, or to have your food ready for pick up! www.bluewaterterrace.com, FB.

EAST END

ers. We’re also the first restaurant on St. Croix to eliminate single use plastic! Entrance is on the 2nd floor, through the Six-Nine courtyard in front of the Pier! Open daily for happy hour 3pm-5pm and dinner 5-10pm. Follow us on Facebook @ TapDeckSTX or online at tapdeckstx.com

Duggan’s Reef. Time to catch that view again!

Duggan’s Reef — 340-773-9800 It’s easy to see why this beachfront restaurant, an informal, open-to-the-breeze spot overlooking Buck Island, has been a local favorite for more than 35 years—voted Best Seafood on St. Croix by readers of the Daily News! Start off with drinks or your choice from the wine list. We specialize in local lobster and fresh fish. Also enjoy pasta, filet mignon, and our choice of freshly prepared desserts. Try Frank Duggan’s Sunday Brunch, 10 am – 1:30 pm, with Eggs Benedict, weekly specials, Mimosas or Bloody Marys. Reservations welcomed! Dinner served 6 nights a week. Closed Mondays. September, closed last three weeks.

Restaurant & Catering St. Croix’s East End, Gorgeous Buck Island View!

I C A’S P

st. croix • USVI • 340.718.1118

Open 365 Days

Dine Undercover, Poolside, or on the Beach! 718-7071

Thursday – Monday, 5 – 9 pm Sunday Brunch, 10am – 2pm Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

“

Think of us for your catered parties, private functions overlooking Buck Island, sweet tooth fix, last-minute lunch box, fried chicken picnics, ice cream cravings, pizza-n-beer, Sunday afternoons, & the finest cuisine & spirits.

”

Restaurant: Fresh Fish daily specials, Famous for Lori’s Fried Chicken & fresh pasta dishes, Award-winning house-made desserts and Sunday Brunch overlooking Buck Island. Dine-in on our Terrace or Take-out Full Menu, visitstcroix.com Catering: Our Catering Service is the Best From a party of 2 to 200!

Call 340-692-2583 Text 340-227-6340 www.bluewaterterracevi.com December 20 / Januar y 21 • 29

Food & Drink EAST END / NORTHSHORE EAST END cont...

Goat, Soup and Whiskey – 340-773-3333 Welcome to the Goat! Lunch service begins at 11:30am with appetizers, soups, salads and sandwiches. Enjoy your lunch with a glass of wine, beer, or a freshsqueezed Caribbean cocktail. Dinner service begins at 5pm with Steaks, Chops, Seafood, and Pastas combining with the delicious lunch offerings. Pair your dinner with a selection from the wine list or from the extensive craft cocktail menu. Choose fresh coffee, espresso or cappuccino to compliment in-house desserts. At Sunday Brunch, from 10am – 2pm, take in views of Buck Island with a glass of Champagne, a Mimosa, or build-your-own Bloody Mary. Our alfresco dining room is located at Coakley Bay Condominiums on East End Road. Dinner reservations recommended, Thurs – Tues, 11:30am – 9pm. Closed Wednesdays.

NORTH SHORE Cast Iron Pot. Local favorite, Conch in Butter Sauce.

Cast Iron Pot – 340-692-2477 Here lies the essence of Local Cuisine! “We strive to preserve tradition and culture while keeping a modern flare and extend our hospitality and authentic flavors to the St. Croix community and our visitors.” Hearty

HOME OF

ion Farm Distillery is home to MUTINY Island Vodka®, the Caribbean’s original Island Vodka handcrafted from breadfruit. Seeking an opportunity to give back to his adopted home of St. Croix, chef Todd Manley found an authentic ingrediAir Conditioning Distillery ViewVersatile and rich ent true to the history of the island. Service Bar in history, breadfruitFull has a legacy that begins in Tahiti, Free Tours Good Eatsever told, and had a role in the mostVibes, famous Great Mutiny tale ultimately fed the populations of the Caribbean. Also, visit our iconic waterfront tasting

room on the Christiansted Boardwalk Todd found a kindredinside spirit inthe distiller mill Chris Richeson, and they have for the first time ever distilled the precious ingredients of breadfruit and water, yielding a luxurious Island Vodka that takes you to the trade winds and blue waters of its island home. Each bottle bears their signatures as a commitment to providing the world’s finest and first Island Vodka. Conceived on the island of St. Croix and perfected in the year of the hurricanes, Mutiny Island Vodka unleashes an unforgettable taste asondistinctive as Complete menu and current hours Facebook its Caribbean heritage. @sionfarmdistillery |340.690.9322 mutinyislandvodka.com | sionfarmdistillery.com

The perfect first and last stop when travelling to St. Croix, Sion Farm Distillery is located mid-island in the beautifully renovated, bright blue building that once housed the iconic Island Dairies in Estate Sion Farm. Come enjoy our family-friendly, air-conditioned, distillery-view full bar and restaurant offering unique craft cocktails and chef created eats. Not to be missed is our complimentary zero waste facility tour that will leave you wanting to grow breadfruit and pour more MUTINY Island Vodka cocktails. You will learn about the magic of breadfruit and how we are helping to plant breadfruit trees, create jobs, and benefit the environment through the Trees that Feed Foundation. We host one of the Island’s best Happy Hours, Monday Friday from 4:00 - 6:00 PM. Come see why we are one of St. Croix’s favorite escapes! You want breadfruit?! We have breadfruit eats and drinks. Island vibes, island character, island flavor, and island rhythm! BETTER Cocktails. BETTER Planet. www.sionfarmdistillery.com @mutinyislandvodka – 340-690-9322

30 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Food & Drink NORTHSHORE / MID-ISLAND

dishes like Savory Stewed Chicken, Salt Fish Gundy, Red Peas Soup, Catch-of-the-Day, Pot Fish, Fresh Local Beef, Coconut Bread Pudding, and Homemade Cakes are prepared with love and passion by Burton Peterson, awardwinning local chef and owner of Top Class Catering for 20 years. Trip Advisor “Top-Rated Seafood & Caribbean Cuisine Restaurant.” Northside Road in Estate La Grande Princesse. Open Tues & Wed, 11 am – 5 pm, and Thurs – Sat, 11 am – 9 pm. Local lobsters, every style, every day! Leatherback Landing @ Cane Bay – 340-718-0362 Leatherback Landing has arrived in Cane Bay! With a focus on promoting exceptional local beer while embracing and celebrating the community, the restaurant boasts a rotating selection of fresh Leatherback Brewing beers on tap and in cans along with classic island cocktails. The food menu features many favorites along with local specials made with quality ingredients sourced from farmers, bakers, and fishermen located right here on the island. Happy Hour runs from 4pm6pm daily, and brunch, which starts at 10am every Sunday, is a must. Reservations and large parties are welcome. Cane Bay is a day-trip destination where you can bring the whole family. Pull up a seat, grab a drink, and take in the natural beauty of the island. The Palms at Pelican Cove – 340-718-8920 Located 3 miles west of Christiansted, the natural Beach Side setting of The Palms Restaurant & Bar underscores the award-winning flavors coming from the kitchen. The atmosphere can be dressed up or down; Oceanfront dining is available in our open-air pavilion. The Palms Restaurant and Beach Bar is a favorite among locals and is reasonably priced. We offer Steak, Wings, Seafood, Burgers, Salads, Cold Drinks, and more! We are open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Mon-Thurs 7:30 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 7:30 am- 11 pm, Sun 8 am-10 pm. We have nightly Chef Specials, Daily Happy Hour 3pm-6pm and Live Entertainment on Friday & Saturday nights. Call ahead for takeout orders. Reservations necessary for Parties over 6. Follow us on Facebook!

MID-ISLAND

A Better Day Café – 340-244-0333 Nestled in the heart of the Beeston Hill Gym is A Better Day Cafe, the whole-food plant-based restaurant and island’s first full-service meal prep kitchen! Founded to give St. Croix a place to eat clean delicious foods, we are proud to have been serving you for almost 2 years! Known for our home-made bean burgers, gluten-free pates, Smart Lunch Meal Prep specials, hearty soups and detox juice cleanses we are committed to making healthy eating fun, delicious and convenient! We also offer Holistic Health Consultations with our founder, Dr. Micah McIntosh, to personalize your meal plans, supplement recommendations, and combat chronic disease! We have quick pick-up for your nutritious goods and Zoom Video for appts! Call or text us daily for our tasty specials at abetterdayllc.com/specials. Facebook

El Flamboyant. Breaded Shrimp & Breadfruit Testones

Susan Wall

13th year! 16th year!

Restaurant - Bar

Caribbean • Latin • Seafood

Open Mon & Tues, 11:30 - 6pm Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, 11:30 - 9pm Sun, 10:30 - 8pm Happy Hour! Thurs & Fri, 4:30 pm – 7 pm

Mid-Island, Rt. 663

340-779-3285

VISIT OUR

TASTING

ROOM LOCATED IN

ROEBUCK INDUSTRIAL PARK JUST OFF THE HIGHWAY WEST OF THE AIRPORT

LOOK FOR OUR CANNED BEER IN

& RESTAURANTS ACROSS THE ISLAND STORES

Goat, Soup and Whiskey. Thai Crunch Salad.

340.772.BEER December 20 / Januar y 21 • 31

Food & Drink NORTHSHORE / MID-ISLAND

El Flamboyant – 340-779-3285 “People like coming here,” says owner Yvonne Villegas. “I learned to cook from my mother who had a restaurant in Puerto Rico for many years and now its my turn to cook and serve these coveted family recipes!” This colorful, family restaurant offers up a Caribbean, Latin, and Seafood menu that has been pleasing patrons for over 16 years. If you like fresh fish, lobster, conch, and shrimp, or chicken, steaks, and pork chops, you must try the way they do it at here! Happy Hour tradition on Thursday and Friday nights is to stop for a drink then take shish-kabobs home from the drive-up booth! Located between Centerline Road and the Highway on Route #663 and open Monday – Tuesday, 11:30 am – 6 pm, Wednesday – Saturday, 11:30 am – 9 pm, Sunday, 10:30 am – 8 pm. Leatherback Brewing Company – 340-772-2337 Leatherback Brewing Company proudly produces authentic Virgin Islands craft beer with uniquely Caribbean grown ingredients and influences alongside traditional beer styles. We aim to build the community and culture around well-crafted beer and to celebrate and steward our Caribbean life! Leatherback’s flagship location, the St. Croix Brewery and Tasting Room, is located in the Roebuck Industrial Park just up the highway from the airport. Leatherback brews and cans four styles year-round and releases a rotating series of Limited Releases. Many of the styles feature local ingredients. The Tasting Room serves a selection of pizzas, wraps, salads and appetizers and features an indoor and outdoor bar with a family-friendly atmosphere. Our second location is on St. Thomas and you can also find our beers in cans and on draft in local stores and restaurants. www.leatherbackbrewing.com, FB

Leatherback Brewing Company. Check out New Limited Releases!

SUPERSTORE

BIGGEST SUPERMARKET IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS! 5 minutes from the Airport • Open 7 days a week Largest selection of fine wines & spirits • Fresh produce Proud supporters of our local farmers Fresh USDA meats, poultry & seafood • Pharmacy in store

MUTINY Island Vodka - 340-690-9322 The Caribbean’s original Island Vodka handcrafted from breadfruit, MUTINY Island Vodka® is a true island vodka with a luxurious smoothness that reminds you of the trade winds and blue waters of its island home. The only spirit distilled, bottled, and distributed on St Croix, we are proud to be

Beach Front Dining BREAKFAST * LUNCH * DINNER

BEACH FRONT DINING

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER Steaks, Seafood Cold Drinks

Steaks • Seafood • Cold Drinks Daily Chef Specials Live Music Friday & Saturday Daily CHEF Specials LIVE MUSIC EVERY

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Hotel Rooms w/Ocean View

#14 Plessen • Frederiksted, VI 00840-4621

340-719-1870 • plazaextrawest.com

Special Events/Functions

www.palmspelicancove.com EAT

SUPERSTORE

Gift Card

DRINK

ONLY AT THE PALMS 340-718-8920

32 • December 20 / Januar y 21

BEACH

340-718-8920

Food & Drink MID-ISLAND

Sorbetiere Local, homemade ice cream treats—Peter’s Rest or Mobile Parlor! Susan Wall

a US Virgin Islands export! Full of Island vibes, Island character, Island flavor, and Island rhythm! The magic of breadfruit not only makes a smooth Island Vodka, but it helps feed people, create jobs, and benefit the environment. Ask for us at all restaurants on island, visit our iconic mill tasting room on the Christiansted boardwalk, and join us at Sion Farm Distillery for breadfruit eats and drinks. BETTER Cocktails. BETTER Planet.

Locally Made

Sorbetiere Ice Cream & Sorbet – 340-513-0648 You’ve probably seen or visited our Mobile Parlor but have you been to our creamery/store in Peter’s Rest across from Coco-Cola Bottling Company? We now bring you our healthy, locally-made frozen treats every day! Ice creams are freshly churned in our creamery using the freshest ingredients. Contrary to most ice creams, ours are made without eggs, food colorings, stabilizers, or artificial preservatives. Non-dairy ice creams are made with premium coconut milk and sweetened with agave or maple syrup. Full spectrum CBD is infused into our CBD offerings and 100% fruit is used in the production of our fine sorbets. Book our Mobile Parlor for Special Events! “Sorbie” Rewards Program for Kids. Open Sunday – Thursday, Noon – 7pm and Friday & Saturday, Noon – 8pm. FB, IG La Reine Chicken Shack – 340-718-5717 Serving the Community for 17 years! Are you ready to savor one of St. Croix’s best- kept secrets? Taste La Reine Chicken Shack’s mouth-watering BBQ chickens, slowly-cooked on wood-chip coal over an open pit! Get in line! Other menu favorites include Roast Pork, Ribs, Steak, Local Seafood, daily specials and many other island delicacies. Come min-

A Better Day, LLC. Subscription Juice Service!

us Crucian Treat An Incredibly Delicio e cream and

hear, ic “Sorbetiere you ain’ e!” u won’t want to shar sorbet suh good , yo •Sorbie Rewards Program for Kids •Book our Mobile Parlor for Special Events •Sunday - Thursday: Noon - 7pm •Friday & Saturday: Noon - 8pm

Photos by Susan Wall

Peter’s Rest across from Coca-Cola Bottling Company 340-513-0648

•Ice Cream • Sorbet •Non-Dairy Ice Cream •Indulgent Ice Cream •Premium Quality •Egg-Free •No Preservatives •100% Real Fruit

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 33

Food & Drink TELL ME WHERE TO EAT!

OPEN FOR TAKEOU CURBSIDE PICK-U T P DELIVERY SPACED SEATING

Easy Dining Guide Restaurant

Take Local area Out code is (340)

Cuisine

Meals

Credit Cards

Res.

Location

40 Eats and Drinks

692-0524

Fresh/Eclectic/Cocktails

L, D

AE, D, MC, V

Christiansted

A Better Day Cafe at Beeston Hill

244-0333

Vegan/Caribbean/Meal Prep/Detox

B, L, D

MC, V

Yes

Mid-Island

Beach Side Café

772-1266

American / Local / Seafood / Waterfront

L, D, BR

AE, MC, V

Yes

Frederiksted

Blue Water Terrace

692-2583

Restaurant / Market / Deli

D, BR

MC, V

Yes

East End

BREW STX

719-6339

Sandwiches / Smoked Wings / BYO Salads

L, D

MC, V, D

Christiansted

Café Christine’s / ART GALLERY

713-1500

Fresh / Healthy / Café-style

None

Yes

Christiansted

Cast Iron Pot

692-2477

Local / Seafood / Grill

L, D

MC, V

Yes

Northside

Cheeseburgers in America’s Paradise

718-1118

Continental

L, D, BR

MC, V

East End

Ciboné

719-2663

Farm / Sea-to-Table

D, BR

MC, V

Yes

Frederiksted

Deep End Bar & Grill at Tamarind Reef Resort

718-7071

Casual / Beachside Dining

B, L, D, BR

MC, V

Yes

East End

Duggan’s Reef

773-9800

Seafood / Steakhouse

D, BR

MC, V

Yes

East End

Dynamite Tacos

713-5550

Authentic Mexican Street Tacos

L, D,

AE, D, MC, V

Christiansted

El Flamboyant

779-3285

Latin / Seafood / Caribbean

L, D, BR

None

Mid Island

Goat, Soup and Whiskey

773-3333

Casual / Fine / Continental

L, D, BR

MC, V

Yes

East End

Grounded Cafe

626-9993

Fair Trade Coffee / Casual Hand-crafted Meals

B, L, D

AE, MC, V

Csted/Sunny Isle

La Reine Chicken Shack

778-5717

Open Pit BBQ / Seafood

B, L, D

ATM

Mid Island

Leatherback Brewing Company

772-BEER (2337)

Pizza/Wraps/Salads

L, D

D, MC, V

Mid-Island

Leatherback Landing @ Cane Bay

718-0369

Grill / Seafood / Caribbean / Waterfront

B, L, D

MC, V, D

Northshore

Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar

713-0222

Authentic Mexican

L, D

AE, MC, V

Gallows Bay

Nate’s Boathouse & Seafood Emporium

692-6283

Seafood / World Cuisine

B, L, D, BR

D, MC, V

Yes

Christiansted

Nauti Bar & Grille

718-0544

Smoked Meats/Chicken/Fresh Seafood

L, D

AE, MC, V, D

Christiansted

Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant

643-4729

Teppanyaki/Sushi/Craft Cocktails/Courtyard

AE, D ,MC, V, Debit

Yes

Christiansted

Salty Beetchz

713-8899

Local/Pizza/Wings/Cocktails

B, L, D, BR

AE, D ,MC, V, Debit

Christiansted

Seaside Market & Deli

719-9393

Gourmet /Salad Bar/ Prime Meats

B, L, D

AE, D, MC, V

Gallows Bay

Shupe’s on the Boardwalk

773-3400

Burgers / Wings / Ice Cream

L, D

MC, V, D

Christiansted

Sion Farm Distillery

690-9322

Craft Cocktails and Eats

L, D

AE, D, MC, V

Mid-Island

Six Nine Restaurant & Bar

772-6969

Steaks/Seafood/Pasta/Wine

L, D, BR

AE, D, MC, V

Yes

Frederiksted

Sorbetiere Ice Cream & Sorbet

513-0648

Locally-Made/Non-Dairy/Egg-Free

D, MC, V

Mid Island

The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center

773-7728

Juices / Smoothies / Healthy Food

B, L

D, MC, V

Christiansted

The Mill Boardwalk Bar Brick Oven Pizza

643-6455

Brick oven pizza / Waterfront

L, D

AE, D, MC, V, Debit

The Palms at Pelican Cove

718-8920

American/Caribbean/Beachfront

B,L,D,BR

MC, V, D

Yes 6

Northside

TOAST Diner

692-0313

Eclectic / Venezuelan Food

B, L

MC, V, D

Christiansted

34 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Christiansted +

Food & Drink MID-ISLAND

FARM STAND FRESH! CALL AHEAD OR CHECK ONLINE FOR CHANGES IN SCHEDULES. ARTfarm, LLC – 340-514-4873 On Summer Hours. Open on a pop-up basis only. www.artfarmllc.com, FB Crescent Farm - 340-277-0707 Sat - Sun, 9 am - 5 pm or by appointment. Solar-powered, organic farm. Seasonal fruits & vegetables. Facebook La Reine Farmers Market – 340-778-0998 Sat, 6:30 am – 11 am New Location. VI Dept of Agriculture Ag Station, East Building, on Rt. 669. Vegetables, fruits, plants, and trees. Ridge2Reef Farm – 340-473-1557 Wed & Sat, 11am – 3 pm Pick up our fruits, veggies, and meats at the Lawaetz Museum in Frederiksted. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Sign up & pick-up locations. www.ridge2reef.org

gle with our friendly staff and local patrons in our recently renovated outdoor seating area. Enjoy one of our most popular drinks “Cruzan Confusion” at our full bar. Located mid-island on Route #75, off Centerline Road, we’re open 7 days a week serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Eat in or Take out! Facebook Plaza Extra West Supermarket – 340-719-1870 The biggest, full-service supermarket on St. Croix features organic, fresh local produce. Our Dairy Department is filled with a variety of fine cheeses, a large selection of meats, organic eggs, and juices. Our Meat Department is stocked with the finest cuts prepared by our Master Butcher; USDA meats, Certified Angus meats, poultry, and seafood. Pair your favorite cheeses, seafood, meat and desserts with our wines from the largest liquor selection on island. We have catering available from our fullservice Deli and Bakery. Try our delicious Stone House Subs, pastries and desserts. Artisan breads, platters, and hot foods served daily. We look forward to serving you. www.plazaextrawest.com, Facebook.

La Reine Chicken Shack. Juicy Roasted Chicken and more!

Sejah Farm – 340-277-6046 or 277-9392 Mon – Fri, 10 am – 5 pm, Sat, 7 am – 5 pm Dale and Yvette Browne offer livestock, eggs, & organically grown vegetables. www.sejahfarm.com. Accepts credit cards.

The Caribbean’s Original Island Vodka® Handcrafted from breadfruit in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Southgate Corner Farmer’s Market – 340-332-3932 Sat, 8 am – Noon Produce, fresh & preserved local fruit, fresh baked goods, local honey, handmade soaps, herb and ornamental plants. Tropics Hydroponics Farm – 340-227-5546 Mon - Fri, 8 am - 4 pm, Sat, 8 - 12 noon, Sat, La Reine Market Brian McCulough specializes in Bibb lettuce, vine-ripened tomatoes, & other vegetables. Farm locations, Pg 54-55.

Serving the Community for 17 years!

Mouth-W Mouth-Watering atering

Open-Pit BBQ Chicken Roast Pork Ribs • Steak Local Seafood

Catering for All Occasions!

Newly Renovated with Full Bar

Try our “Cruzan Confusion!”

Open 7 Days a Week! Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Rt. 75 off Centerline Road

Tropics Hydropinics Farm. Tomatoes!

Eat In or Take Out • 340-778-5717

Island Vibes, Island Character, Island Flavor, & Island Rhythm ™

Better Cocktails. Better Planet.

340.690.9322 visit us @sionfarmdistillery

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 35

On the Covers THE LOCAL ARTIST PALETTE

DEC 20

VICKI NELSON

“Creating has been a critical part of my life from childhood building model airplanes to a corporate career starting new projects and organizations.

Teenage artistic efforts were self-taught watercolor flowers. There was some formal instruction in undergraduate studies at Georgetown College, Georgetown, KY. Artistic efforts went dormant as a rewarding corporate career grew. On a lark, in 2010, I began evening art classes. The corporate life was starting to not be fun. Art helped me break the corporate chains with no regrets….well I do miss access to private aircraft sometimes when commercial flights go amok. Inspiration comes from flowers - part of being the daughter of a florist - and the island of St. Croix. Since 1987, my husband, Steve (devoted supporter of the arts) and I have made St. Croix a home. I knew from the first time I deplaned on STX I’d found a home. We’ve built a house (twice) thanks to Hugo, owned a condo, and now enjoy Cottages by the Sea. The Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts has been a part of our island life since before it had a physical presence.

Vicki Nelson.

Mocko Jumbie.

Peekaboo Sunflower.

Daddy III.

Currently, I am blessed to be working with a premier watercolorist, Alexis Lavine, who has created many awesome St. Croix watercolors. Works have been featured at several juried shows in Florida including as Featured Artist. The 2021 CMCA Calendar will highlight “Imagine What I Once Was” a St. Croix beach scene. Works are in private collections in 12 U.S. states and 3 other countries. Professional associations include Artists Guild of St. Croix, The Loft of Ponce Inlet, The P.O.W. (Pastel,Oil,Watercolor) Artists. Works can be purchased at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts and Molly’s Boutique. You can watch works develop and sometimes help select subject and titles at Facebook.com/VKNDesigns. stxvicki@gmail.com. “

NOVEMBER 2017

www.stcroixthisweek.com

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK

Guiding Visitors & Locals for 46 Years

JANUARY 2016

www.stcroixthisweek.com

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK

Guiding Visitors & Locals for 45 Years

october 2012

www.stcroixthisweek.com

st. croix this week Celebrating 41 Years

OCTOBER 2015

www.stcroixthisweek.com

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK

Guiding Visitors & Locals for 44 Years

JAN 21

2009 Judith King, Jane Akin, Pam Kerschner, Maria Henle, Luca Gasperi, Bonnie Luria, John Jones. 2010 Isabelle Picard, Arisa Derricks, Danica M. David, Toni Lance, Nancy Brynes, Caroline Duprey. 2011 Ted Davis, Jan Mitchell, Miguel Ferguson, Toni Lance, Elisa McKay, Sue Snow. 2012 Leslie Cramer, Niarus Benjamin, Phyllis Biddle, Marjorie P. Robbins, Elwin Joseph, Gloria Morales. 2013 Dane Stewart, Jose Joseph, Marilyn P. May, Carlos “Tuna” Garcia, Christina Frederick Gasperi, Diego Conde, Davina Pallone. 2014 Ted Davis, Lyn Voytershark, Bully Petersen, Phyllis Charles, Kate Knapp, Ken Daly. 2015 Jamila Hammad, John Obafemi Jones, Tina Henle, Marcia Jameson, Lloyd Alphonso Braffith aka “Dove,” Charles “Bud” Hawes, Lucien Downes. 2016 LaVaughn Belle, Juhrista Jacobs, Karin Olsen, Yamaya Jones, Debbie Sun, Stuart Rames. 2017 Christa-Ann Davis Molloy, Catherine Booth, Laurie Ingersoll, David A. Berg, El’Roy Simmonds, Sophia Phillip. 2018 Roy Lawaetz, Emelyn Morris-Sayre, Barbara Gelardi, Lee Lashley, Mandy Thody, Toby Schoyer. 2019 Stephanie Schoyer, Toni Lance, Lyn Voytershark, Marilyn Phillips May, Chalana Brown, Phyllis Charles, Jane Akin. 2020 Lucien Downes, Waldemar Brodhurst, World Ocean School, Quiana L. Adams, Suenita Banwaree, Shaliiah Simmonds, Jah’Sai Rodriquez, Letisha Ayala, Al Dorsa, Kebra Keza, Matt Jarvis, Vicki Nelson.

THANK YOU COVER ARTISTS!

Left, clockwise from top left: El’Roy Simmonds, Nov 17, Elwin Joseph, Oct 12, Lloyd Alphonso Braffith aka “Dove,” Oct 15, Lucien Downes, Jan 16. On the January cover, left to right from top: Judith King, Feb 09, Bonnie Luria, Oct 09, Arisa Derricks, Apr/May 10, Caroline Duprey, Dec 10, Isabelle Picard, Feb 10, Sue Snow, Dec 11, Niarus Benjamin, Apr 12, Elisa McKay, Oct 11, Phyllis Biddle, Jul 12, Carlos “Tuna” Garcia, Jul 13, Christina Frederick Gasperi, Sept 13, Jose Joseph, Mar 13, Karin Olsen, Jul 16, Diego Conde, Oct 13, Lucien Downes, Dec 15, John Obafemi Jones, May 15, David A. Berg, Sept 17, LaVaughn Belle, Mar 16, Debbie Sun, Sept 16, Toni Lance, Feb 19, Lee Lashley, Aug 18, Sophia Phillip, Dec 17, Barbara Gelardi, June 18, Stephanie Chalana Brown, Sept 19. 36 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Local Art

ST. CROIX’S ART GALLERIES Art @ Top Hat – 340-513-3558 Across from the US Post Office and in a historic two-story townhouse on Company Street, the Art @ Top Hat Gallery presents changing exhibits of works by local Virgin Islands fine artists, always with amazing collections to choose from. Also sculpture, photography, pottery, antiques, and handmade jewelry. Estate sale collectibles. Happy to work with homeowners, interior designers, and businesses looking for just the right art work. Always prints, maps, cards and other island memories—and we ship! Browsers welcome. Art shows and open Art Thursdays during the winter season. Open Wed – Sat, 1-5pm and by special appointment by calling 340-513-3558. Facebook Bead on a Wire – 340-718-BEAD (2323) Learn how to make jewelry—Wire Work, Chain Maille, Pearl Knotting, Viking Knit, Stringing, Knotted Lariat, and Seed Beading—from Artisan/ Instructor, Vanessa Harvey Hinds! Visit her bright, yellow and white Bead Store in the new Richmond Courtyard, on Soboetker Lane, between Rt. 75 and the Seaplane Ramp. Find tools, seed beads, semiprecious gemstone beads, Swarovski crystals and pearls, base and precious metal wire, and stringing supplies. Attend one of her many weekly two-hour classes—check the website or Facebook page for days and hours. Let her help you plan a Jewelry Party, Craft & Sip, or Special Jewelry Event. Open Wednesday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm. www.beadonawirestx.com, Facebook. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts – 340772-2622 Our mission is to preserve, promote and exhibit the arts of St. Croix and the Caribbean community, to provide an interactive environment that encourages children, youth and adults to learn positive forms of expression, and to offer creative learning experiences which foster an understanding of the rich cultural and artistic traditions of the Caribbean, and their source. Housed in an 18thcentury Danish townhouse. Artist-in-Residence program. Come visit and join us! www.cmcarts. org, Facebook. Christa’s Art Gallery – 340-713-9959 Christa-Ann Davis Molloy was a St. Croix This Week cover artist in February and March of 2017 and since then, opened a gallery in La Grande Princesse and now on Company Street in Christiansted. Born in Trinidad, West Indies, she began an interest in art and design by the age of 11, encouraged by her Mom, her sister, her sons, and friends. She loves to paint portraits, old buildings, quadrille dancers, mocko jumbies, Caribbean scenes, and events. Lots of these images are incorporated into products at her gallery. Come see her umbrellas, shower curtains, coast-

“Dancing Jumbie” (detail).

Cathy Booth, Artist Guild Show, Jan 20, CMCA.

ART @ TOP HAT GALLERY

FINE LOCAL ART - PRINTS - CARDS - PHOTOGRAPHY MAPS - HANDMADE JEWELRY - VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES AUTHENTIC WEST INDIAN ANTIQUES

Learn How to Make Jewelry!

52 Company Street, Christiansted 340-513-3558

CARIBBEAN MUSEUM CENTER ARTS FOR THE

10 Strand St. F’std 340.772.2622 Tue-Sat 11am-5pm Local Arts • Gift Shop www.cmcarts.org

Weekly Classes in Stringing – Seed Beading Pearl Knotting – Wire Work Chain Maille – Viking Knit Fully-stocked Bead Store Tools – Beads – Gemstones – Crystals Pearls – Wire – Stringing Supplies Hours Wednesday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm

340-718-BEAD (2323) www.beadonawirestx.com December 20 / Januar y 21 • 37

Local Art ART MARKET

the photography of Tina Henle. By appointment. HenleGallery.com Maufe Gallery – 340-332-4556 Maufé Gallery owner/artist Thérèse Trudeau welcomes you to the gallery where she exhibits her own work and that of other local and international artists on St. Croix. Located at Crucian Gold on Strand Street in Christiansted, Maufe Gallery shares space with jewelry designer Nathan Bishop who oversees an on-site workshop for handmade designs. There is often a new exhibit every month and live music and performance art pieces taking place. Open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm. Island ART & SOUL 2021 Calendar. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts.

ers, rugs, cushions, mugs, tee shirts, and face masks. Sign up for art classes and Sip and Paint events. Open Mon – Fri, 11am – 5:30pm; Sat, 10am – 3pm. Company Street. www.christaart.com. FB, IG Henle Studio – 340-332-1628 Celebrating 27 years, this historic loft, upstairs on Company Street in Christiansted, showcases the paintings and prints of Maria Henle, the photographs of St. Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle and

Ted Davis Galeria - 310-860-6001 (toll free!) After almost a decade in Christiansted, D&D Studio is now online! Visit us at https://ddstudio.smugmug.com/Travel/StCroixPhotos to purchase beautiful and collectable photographs by Ted Davis. These stunning images are unique St. Croix artworks, and are great additions to your home or office decor. You can have a piece of St. Croix delivered right to your door! Call or email for more details. info@ddstudio.us

Weddings I DO!

hat could be more romantic than beginning your life together on a beautiful island? Tying the knot here can be breathtaking and stress-free with experienced wedding planners committed to every detail of your special day. Accommodations, ceremony and reception sites, menu planning, floral arrangements, photographers, musicians, transportation, special themes, and gifts and activities for your guests are all taken care of for you. With historic churches, Danish architecture, luscious villas, yachts and palm-fringed beaches, we’ve got your perfect backdrop for a memorable day. Whether saying “I do” for the first time, or renewing your vows, St. Croix sets the stage of a lifetime! For a Wedding Proposal Request, List of Vendors, Marriage License Application, and Island Wedding Brochure, visit usvitourism.vi and click on Weddings & Honeymoons. When you get married on St. Croix, you’re also in a perfect location for a romantic honeymoon! Why not have your wedding here, as well as your honeymoon, or marry here and honeymoon on St. Thomas or St. John?

Celebrating Art & Culture

Paintings - Prints - Tees - Totes - Rugs - Coasters Umbrellas - Pillows - Shower Curtains - Mugs - Face Masks

‘Sip & Paint’ Events - Art Classes 57 Company Street • 340-713-9959 340-513-8581 • www.christaart.com

Beautiful St. Croix photographs delivered right to your home!

Fritz Henle • Maria Henle • Tina Henle & other artists #55 Company St., Christiansted HenleGallery.com • 340-332-1628 38 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Visit www.ddstudio.smugmug.com/Travel/StCroix or call us at 310.861.6001 for more details!

Tied the knot.

Tina Henle

Our Danish Connection

PAPER CLIPPING – A TRADITIONAL, CHARMING DANISH PASTIME

In the past, several European nations contended for ownership of many Caribbean islands for their natural resources in the profitable sugar cane cultivation. The Scandinavian country of Denmark was an early player in St. Thomas 1660, St. John 1718, and St. Croix, the last but most profitable acquisition purchased from France in 1733.

by Nina York

During the 184 years this island was owned by Denmark, that nation left its mark in many ways. Rarely is a former colonial owner viewed by a population in as positive and friendly manner as here. A close relationship between Denmark and the U.S. Virgin Islands has brought thousands of Danish visitors to visit these former possessions that hold memories from before 1917, the sale and Transfer year to the United States. Some examples: • The solid 18th and 19th century architecture: Official buildings, commercial or private residences, constructed of brick brought as ballast, a handsome still functioning link to the past. • Ruins of many plantation structures that once produced sugar and rum. particularly former windmills that ground sugar cane. • Continued use of the old plantation names for all countryside areas, even the 18th century division into named Quarters, also old Danish street names in the towns, and old-time street addresses. Our two towns are named for Danish kings. • The presence in four churches of the Danish Lutheran denomination. • Two old cemeteries with special sections for Danish gravesites, and thorough records thereof by Danish scribes. • Continued use of certain holidays from the Danish calendar. • Many African heritage families carrying Danish last names and even use of historic Danish first names for Crucian children. • A Friends of Denmark organization that carries out exchange visit Festivals with its sister Society in Denmark, Danish West Indian Society, in addition to sponsoring visits and creative endeavors. • A voluminous website accessible to anyone covering all the persons residing here throughout the Danish period 1734 to 1917. • Access on the internet to over 5 million documents in the Danish archives relevant to the Danish West Indies, as our islands were called. • A friendly Crucian population that looks out for visiting Danes and makes them feel welcome. If you happen to be a visiting Dane, we bid you Velkommen!

An illustrated collection of 70 articles on Our Danish Connection from this magazine years 2009 through 2019 documenting in English and Danish the unique legacy in St. Croix of Denmark’s imprint on our culture. A gift for anyone who loves this island. At Undercover Books and Caribbean Museum Center. $20.

The intricate work of paper art by Hans Christian Andersen contributed to his fame. Source: www.hcandersen.dk

A Danish Christmas tree has maintained a very individual appearance over the many years since it was first introduced from Germany, its place of origin. We can view illustrations in books like Peters Jul showing a family holding hands in a circle around the tree and dancing while singing Christmas carols, a tradition that still today is firmly entrenched among Danes of all ages.

As we study those images, we notice that the tree décor is different from the baubles seen on a typical American Christmas tree. Until recent times, the lights on Danish trees would be live candles, but because of the fire hazard this was discontinued in favor of strands of electric lights. One reason for the pronounced fire hazard on a Danish tree was the nature of the decorations. Along with garlands of miniature Danish paper flags, called Dannebrog, reflecting the Danish pride in their ancient flag, the other decorations were to a great extent made of colored glossy paper that was cut to create traditional braided heart-shaped hanging baskets and colorful cones hung on the branches and filled with candy. In Peters Jul the children are admonished: “First the tree is displayed, then the candy-eating can begin.” Other décor associated with the season is another cut and assembled three-dimensional star that requires considerable paper handling skills, not unlike Origami that has a very different place of origin, but Origami does not clip the paper. The creation of these decorative ornaments is often a family pastime that exemplifies the hygge concept of cozy shared activity. But paper clipping has a much broader tradition that engaged none less than Danish storyteller Hans Christian Andersen, whose world- famous fairy tales have fascinated children and adults over many generations. His skill at paper clipping into intricate, elegant designs was equal to his literary gifts, and he was often seen engaged in clipping while telling a rapt audience stories like The Ugly Duckling or The Little Mermaid. Paper clipping tradition is a hobby that has attracted many adults but requires not only creativity but also patience. Some clippings, known as silhouettes, can be stretched over broad spans of paper, telling a story of persons assembled at a social gathering. Trying to copy such a display would be a serious challenge for a beginner. It occurs to me that such a hobby that only requires tools found in every household would be an enjoyable and relaxing way to spend idle hours at home that many of us have experienced recently. Nina York, born in Denmark but a St. Croix resident since 1976, has been a contributor for this publication since 2009 and was its Managing Editor from 1990-2003. She now offers tours for visitors from Denmark and the mainland, does translations, and volunteers for Rotary and the St. Croix Friends of Denmark Society. December 20 / Januar y 21 • 39

Watersports

BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS

Big Beard’s Adventure Tours – 340-773-4482 Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Come with us to Buck Island Reef National Monument and enjoy one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean! Choose a relaxing full-day excursion aboard the sailing catamaran Renegade, with famous beach BBQ, or enjoy the beach and snorkeling on a fun half-day trip aboard our power catamaran Adventure. Experience one of our Sunset Sails; a beautiful time to be out on the water! For the ultimate St. Croix experience, all our boats are available for private charters for weddings or large groups. Gift Certificates available. Give someone the gift of an experience they will always remember. Located on the Christiansted boardwalk; retail store. Authorized National Park Service Concessioner. www.bigbeards.com, Find us on Facebook and Instagram

Caribbean Sea Adventures – 340-773-2628 Lyric Sails. Our signature live music sunset sail!

Mike Simpson

Come explore Buck Island with us! Caribbean Sea Adventures offers a variety of boating packages to fit your every need. With options ranging from full, half day or private charter trips to explore Buck Island’s underwater snorkel trail, to sunset sails along the beautiful coastline, there is an option for every occasion. New to our fleet is a 32’ Boston Whaler, offering a more intimate charter experience. All Buck Island trips include snorkel gear and instruction, guidance on the underwater trail, flotation devices, water and rum punch. Scuba diving trips and wedding ceremonies also available. www.caribbeanseaadventures.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram.

Llewellyn’s Charter – 340-773-9027 Take a fast and exciting sail with local sailing legend and calypso recording artist Llewellyn Westerman aboard his 37-foot locally-designed and built, six-passenger performance trimaran Charis+. He’s been sailing to Buck Island National Monument since 1960 and assures a comfortable arrival to the beach or the first designated underwater National Park. Snorkel gear is provided. Departs from the St. Croix Yacht Club at Teague Bay 9 to 1:00 am, 1:30 to 5:30 pm, and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Personalized sails available. Call for more information and reservations

Lyric Sails – 340-201-5227

Book Online

www.CaribbeanSeaAdventures.com

Or call 340-773-2628

40 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Experience the magic of Frederiksted sailing onboard the custom-built 63ft historic racing catamaran, Jolly Mon! On our signature live music sunset sail, be serenaded by local and visiting musicians as you sip on complimentary rum punch, spot turtle tracks at Sandy Point, and watch a beautiful West End sunset.

Watersports

STEAL SOME TIME AND GET IN THE WATER!

Discover St. Croix From a Different Perspective with IKSA! Aron Abel is born and raised on St. Croix and comes from a distinguished boating and engineering family in Frederiksted. Growing up, his family was fortunate to have boats that placed among the fastest in the Frederiksted Festival boat races every year.

active, low-impact workout, but a lot of fun! If you feel more comfortable closer to shore, try our Eclipse Stepper board. This is a combination of peddling like a bike, balancing, and walking at the same time. It looks easy, but many find themselves falling in the blue over and over again until they get the hang of it. This is another great low-impact workout for your legs, but fun just the same. A great activity for the whole family—even the dog can come along!

After graduating from Polytechnic Institute of New York he spent the next 20 years in New Jersey using what he learned in “real world” management jobs before returning to his island home to start Island Kayak Sailing Adventures (IKSA). Because of his long-standing love of fishing, boating, and water sports, Aron’s mission is to share his passion with anyone who wants to (re) discover St. Croix from a different perspective!

Aron on a kayak sail at Protestant Cay.

Whether you are looking for a low-key adventure or a heart-thumping experience, ISKA has something for you! ISKA offers exhilarating active adventure experiences for individuals who like a challenge. You can either book a guided or unguided kayak fishing,

kayak snorkeling, or kayak sailing tour. Rest assured, if you are booking a kayak sailing tour, be prepared to paddle fast and hard, if you are in the driver’s seat, until you catch the wind because this isn’t your “row your boat gently down the stream” kind of adventure—its an

If you want more than a low-impact workout, then the Zayak Seasled may be for you. This gives your head and body support out of the water while allowing you to see below through a viewing window! What a great way to spend the day! Book online or call and let the adventures begin!

Island Kayak Sailing Adventures (IKSA) 340-626-3921 www.kayaksailingadventures.com

Sail to Buck Island Reef National Monument on

Buck Island Charters

Departing Teague Bay Teroro II & Dragonfly

with Captain Carl or Captain Heinz

SAIL • SNORKEL • HIKE

Sail aboard Teroro II (42’) or Dragonfly (38’) Trimarans and experience a personalized tour of Buck Island Reef National Monument. The National Underwater Trail is a snorkel sight second to none!

9:00 am - 1:00 pm 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Authorized Concessioner

100% sail powered 6 passenger custom built 37’ trimaran

Authorized Concessioner

● Snorkel equipment included ● Dragonfly exclusive to six guests ● Departs from Green Cay Marina “H” Dock

Recommended in Frommer’s Tour Guide

www.gotostcroix.com/heinz

(340) 718-3161 • teroro@msn.com

Llewellyn’s Charter 340-773-9027

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 41

Watersports

TAKE THE PLUNGE—MAKE SOME MEMORIES!

Sweet Bottom Dive Center. Learn to Dive!

SCUBA DIVING ST. CROIX, USVI Dive a wreck, wall, pier and reef all in one day!

340-773-DIVE (3483)

Nep2une Scuba Diving. Green Sea Turtle, Frederiksted Pier.

Kiersten Flado

Diving here is easy & accessible with an array of experiences. All dive boats are inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard and captains are USCG certified. Sea life is abundant and changes with the time of day and time of year. More than 500 species of fish, 40 types of coral and hundreds of invertebrates inhabit the water. Buck Island Reef National Monument – is 6,000 feet long, a ½-mile wide and includes the 176-acre island and 18,839 acres of submerged land and coral reef system. Frederiksted Pier – Macro life abounds; depths reach 50’ at the end of the pier; pilings are at 25’. Butler Bay Wrecks – 5 wrecks together on St. Croix’s Northwest tip; the deepest is at 110’ and the shallowest is at 20’. Salt River Canyon – This Northshore site has two walls facing each other across a quarter mile of blue water. Cane Bay Wall – Rated one of the top dives in all the Caribbean. Not to miss! -The Scuba Diving Resource

2 Breathtaking Locations • Cane Bay Beach • Davis Bay Beach

Renaissance Carambola Resort RE-OPENING SOON

Wall Diving, Boat Diving, Pier & Night Diving Available

sweetbottomdive.com 42 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Sweet Bottom Dive Center. Get Certified!

Tim Linse

JOIN THE EXPERTS! BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS cont.....

Want to explore the West End by day and stay away from the crowds? Book a private day sail! Sail, snorkel, swim and relax in the always calm waters of the West while being taken care of by our professional crew! Private evening sails are also available by request. Sunset Sails sail Weds-Sun, private day sails are available daily. See our music schedule and book online at lyricsails.com or follow us on Facebook @lyricsails.

Teroro II and Dragonfly – 340-718-3161 Buck Island Charters, with Captain Heinz and his son Carl, is one of the oldest charter boat companies sailing to Buck Island Reef National Monument. Teroro II, a 42’ trimaran, is the first commercially built boat by Gold Coast Yachts at Salt River and chartered by Captain Heinz. Carl followed his father’s passion, after sailing and competing in his youth and after helping to captain Teroro II to Buck Island for 16 years, and now has is own boat Dragonfly, a 38’ trimaran. He and his father love to share their local knowledge with the guests aboard and give them a very personalized snorkeling tour of Buck Island Reef. We are recommended by Fromer’s Tour Guide and sail from Green Cay Marina.

DIVING Dive Experience – 340-773-3307 Get to know St. Croix’s underwater wildlife— Turtles, Eels, Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, Dolphins, and even Humpback Whales with St. Croix’s Original PADI 5-Star IDC Center! Michelle Pugh, a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame, opened Dive Experience in 1983 and has the most experienced dive staff on the island. Diver safety, combined with fun and preservation of the marine environment are our primary concerns. Daily boat dives, Lionfish hunting dives—take your fillets home with you (yum!), and “No Moon” String-of-Pearl night dives! We offer diver training from the Discover Scuba program to dive instructor and complete dive and snorkel rental gear plus air and nitrox fills. New, expanded location on the Chritiansted boardwalk at Kings Alley. We love to dive and it shows! www.divexp.com

Nep2une Scuba Diving – 340-227-1915 Nep2une Scuba Diving, St. Croix’s newest, “old” dive shop is located just steps from the Frederiksted Pier. A service-oriented dive shop, featuring two, six-pack dive boats, to keep your dive experience personal. We are the only dive

DIVE EXPERIENCE — Diving St. Croix for 38 Years Michelle Pugh, a 41-year resident of St Croix, learned to dive in Los Angeles while high school and hasn’t stopped since! In 1992, along with Jacques Cousteau, she was inducted into the platinum Pro 5000 through SSI. In 2004, she was inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Frame for being the first woman to dive with killer whales in the wilds of Canada, the first American woman to teach diving in Moscow, Russia and for establishing the mooring system on St Croix to protect the coral reefs. Michelle was also given the SBDC and Congressional Award for Entrepreneurial Success for Dive Experience. Sam Halvorson, Captain, Instructor, Dive Master, and Videographer, has been on board for 29 years. He knows the reefs like the back of his hand. His videos are a favorite souvenir! Michelle, who’s made over 10,000 dives on St. Croix, is the only dive center owner that actually dives most everyday—guiding lots of customers by request. While developing

the dive mooring sites, she has explored most St Croix reefs and walls. Michelle has also traveled the world just to dive—like the East coast of the US from Florida to Rhode Island, the West coast from Canada to Mexico, The Red Sea, Australia, Solomon Islands, Borneo, PhilipSusan Wall pines, the Antarctic, and most of the Caribbean Islands. And, I recently returned from the Galapagos Islands! Dive Experience is St Croix’s first dive operator and the first PADI 5-star IDC center. They teach diving from novice to professional instructors. Located at Kings Alley on the boardwalk, their USCG-licensed dive boat is steps away on the dock. The full-service center features basic snorkel equipment to recreational and professional dive gear from Aqualung (US Divers) plus hats, towels, tees, Trudi Gilliam fish art and the largest Reef sandal selection on island. “With years in the business and my experience over time, I’d can say that Dive Experience is simply the best!” Advertisement

DIVE EXPERIENCE Celebrating 38 Years!

“The Name Says it All”

2020

Open: Monday-Saturday, 8 am-5 pm Sunday, 8 am-4 pm

St. Croix’s First PADI 5 Star Center Owned by Michelle Pugh,Women Diver’s Hall of Fame

Diver Training — Beginner to Instructor Dive Equipment Retail & Rentals Daily Boat DivesLion Fish Hunts Snorkel Trips

Christiansted Boardwalk at Kings Alley

Local: 340-773-3307 Toll Free: 800-235-9047 www.divexp.com

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 43

Watersports WHAT ELSE CAN I DO? DIVING cont...

shop diving 33 unique, dive sites on the West End of St. Croix. Our staff offers a high level of dive service and owner/boat captain/instructor Kiersten Fidao is committed to you, our customers, ensuring our service is above the rest. Our dedicated instructors, Jenny Keith and Margi Erway, are always enthusiastic and available to help. Dive Master Paul Silnes, our primary Night Dive Guide, is ready to show you creatures that only St. Croix’s most experienced dive guides can find. Open 7-days-a-week, 8am – 5 pm. www.n2scubadiving.com, Facebook, IG

Sweet Bottom Dive Center – 340-773-DIVE (3483)

Virgin Kayak Tours. Heading out for the sunset!

Located at Cane Bay Beach in our NEW 2,200 square foot facility, we offer daily shore diving to the famous ‘Wall’ only a short distance off Cane Bay Beach. Dive our beautiful, healthy corals to see tropical fish, turtles, rays and reef sharks or schedule a boat or pier dive. Whether you’re interested in a Discover Scuba Diving experience or are working towards a certification such as Open Water, Advanced Open Water, a Specialty Course, Professional Instructor Ratings or Technical Diving, we can accommodate you. Air, Nitrox or Trimix tank fills available along with top-notch scuba and snorkeling equipment to rent. Our original location at the Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort will be reopening soon. Discover why diving with Sweet Bottom Dive Center is a sweet experience! www. SweetBottomDive.com, FaceBook.

JET SKIS / FLYBOARDING West End Water Sports – 340-227-8295 We are your #1 destination for the perfect beach day! Rent Jet Skis, Stand Up Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Snorkeling Gear, Beach Chairs, Lounge Chairs, Umbrellas, and Sun Ray Floats. We also have the newest craze in Water Sports—the Fly

Mermaid Adventures Snorkel Tours like only Mermaids and Merman do Snorkel with ease on underwater propulsion scooters!

Book Your Adventure Today!

310-742-5015 *

Proceeds benefit reef charities on St. Croix

www.mermaidadventures.net 44 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Board! The Westside waters of St. Croix are calm and clear and our Jet Ski riding, swimming and snorkeling areas are second to none! Play unguided on a Jet Ski in a square mile of smooth clear water or, for the more adventurous, check out our extreme Wave Jumping Adventure Tour. Spend a day on Rainbow Beach for a relaxing and/or exhilarating good time, great music, volleyball, corn hole, giant jenga and your favorite food and beverages at Rhythms Beach Bar and Grill. Facebook.

KAYAK TOURS Island Kayak Sailing Adventures - 340-626-3921

Rediscover St. Croix from a new perspective! At Island Kayak Sailing Adventures (IKSA), we offer customizable and personal kayaking, sailing, SUP-ing, inshore and offshore extreme kayaking fishing adventures, and exploring remote beaches, lagoons, estuaries, and nearshore reefs, using Hobie Tandem Island Trimarans and Mirage Eclipses. If snorkeling is challenging, then the Zayak Seasled is for you giving head and body support out of the water while allowing you to see below through a viewing window! Something for the whole family! Our main priority is our guests having an amazing on-water experience with superlative customer service. Located on the Frederiksted Waterfront, we can come to a beach near you! Break away from everyday stress and give us a call! Open 7-days-a-week, 9am – 5pm. www.kayaksailingadventures.com, FB—IKSA.

Sea Thru Kayaks VI – 340-244-8696

Why choose sea thru kayaks? The difference is clear! The best bioluminescent light show is beneath your completely clear kayak. Other kayak types and designs provide a limited view over the sides or a small window. In our sea thru kayaks, your entire boat will be immersed in millions of light-emitting microorganisms. Our guest list has included National Geographic,New York Times, bioluminescent scientific researchers, Boston Globe, HGTV House Hunters International, American Airlines inflight magazine, and many others. All tours begin around sunset at Salt River Marina. Experience the bay that the scientific community is calling one of the best year-round bioluminescent bays in the world. Locally owned and operated. Visit our website for more information, tour dates, availabilities, and to schedule a booking or reservation. www.seathrukayaksvi.com

Virgin Kayak Tours – 340-514-0062

Voted ‘Best Kayak Tour’ on St. Croix for the past eight years by the readers of the VI Daily News! Family owned and operated for 20

Watersports

LIVE THE BIO BAY EXPERIENCE! years, Virgin Kayak Tours offers nighttime Bioluminescent Tours, Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve tours, and Custom Tours—half day, full day, or week long. They use the award-winning Hobie Mirage Pedal Kayaks, so your tour is effortless, even in windy conditions, and focus on St. Croix ecology, Pre-Columbian history, and the cultural landscape. “You’ll definitely see our passion shine through on every St. Croix kayak tour!” Located off Route #80 at Salt River Marina. jill@virginkayaktours.com

across from Tamarind Reef. We provide highend snorkel equipment and train you on its use before your tour time starts. We also photograph and video your entire tour. By touring with us, you are helping to keep the reef healthy for future tours and generations to come. Part of all proceeds benefit reef charities on St. Croix. Open every day, 9am - 6pm. www.mermaidadventures.net, FB, IG

MOBILE SNORKEL TOURS Mermaid Adventures SeaScooter Snorkel Tours - 310-742-5015 Get ready to be propelled through the beautiful Caribbean waters on a SeaScooter snorkel tour tailored just for you. As it pulls you through the water, you conserve your swimming energy and get the most coverage of our enchanting blue waters during your snorkeling time. We are a mobile company that goes out to all the hottest snorkel locations like the Frederiksted Pier, Sandcastle, Cane Bay, and Green Cay

Mermaid Adventures. Your own SeaScooter for a personalized tour!

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 45

Beaches Public

MAKE A BIG SPLASH! All beaches in the USVI are open to the public although access through private property and hotels may have restrictions. Buck Island Reef National Monument The National Park Service has operated Buck Island Reef as a National Park since 1961. Underwater trail, two beaches, two picnic areas, snorkeling, shade, hiking trail, limited facilities. Seven miles East of Christiansted; use authorized National Park Service concessionaires. www.nps.gov/BUIS

Buck Island. Ted Davis

Cane Bay Beach

On St. Croix’s Northshore, this is a long, sandy beach with shade and great snorkeling; relatively shallow and nice for swimming. Diving’s famous ‘Wall’ is located here. Sweet Bottom Dive Center and EAT@Cane Bay to serve you!

Columbus Landing

Christopher Columbus landed here in 1493 at the site of Salt River Bay. Take the road to the left of Salt River Marina. Minimal facilities. Managed by the Territorial State Historic Preservation Office (DPNR), and is within the boundaries of the National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. www.nps.gov/SARI

Cane Bay Beach.

Ted Davis

Cramer Park

Before Pt. Udall, on the East End, is a beautiful long, deep beach with bathrooms, changing rooms, and picnic tables.

Dorsch Beach

On the right, just before Sandcastle on the Beach Hotel and Beach Side Café, is a wonderfully convenient beach with parking and some shade.

Frederiksted Beach.

Ted Davis

Frederiksted Beach

Right next to Ft. Frederik, it is a favorite of cruise ship passengers. Convenient parking and changing facilities.

Rainbow Beach

North of Frederiksted this is a lively beach with bar and restaurant. West End Watersports offers flyboard, Jetski, paddleboard, and kayak rentals. Live music on Sunday afternoons. A local favorite!

Reef Beach

Right next to Duggan’s Reef Restaurant on the East End is a nice slip-of-a-beach. With a very gradual decline, the beach is perfect for windsurfing or for swimming with small children. The Reef Golf Course is across the street.

Sandy Point

Sandy Point.

Susan Wall

Located on St. Croix’s West End, this spectacular beach is part of Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge and is one the longest in the Caribbean! Leatherback Turtle nesting is underway now and the beach is closed to the public until the first week in September. Follow on Facebook.

Shoy Beach

Deep and lush, this beach is located inside the entrance to The Buccaneer Hotel; the guard gate attendant to the right will let you through. Park at the end of the road. No facilities; some shade trees. A local favorite. Shoys Beach. 46 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Al Dorsa

Golf & Tennis PLAY TIME!

Roseway is Back!! October 20, 2020 Good morning Susan, Sorry for my delay, these days have been crazy. We have had to keep adjusting and getting creative with all the considerations — pandemic, weather windows (for Roseway making her way south with 20 kids on board!), racial justice/equity work, funding challenges as a result of a bizarre summer, a historic boat. Anyway, I am not complaining in the least, but just mortified about how poorly communicative I’ve been with you, I hope you’ll forgive me. We plan to resume our 4-6pm sails on November 25, November 27, and November 29, and then sailing Monday-Friday for December, and then Sunday through Friday starting in January. We are in the process of updating details on the website, but we plan to offer sails at half capacity (up to 35 total). We will do temperature checks, ask a series of questions about COVID exposure, and ask everyone to wear masks (at the very least for boarding and raising sails) being very careful as our crew live and work on board.

GOLF

TENNIS

Tee-off at one of St. Croix’s exceptional golf courses! Carambola Golf Club – 340-778-5638

Open to the public. Stay tournament-ready! The Buccaneer Hotel – 340-712-2143

Open 7 days a week, 7:30 am – 4 pm. Commissioned by Laurence Rockefeller and designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., a beautiful, challenging 18-hole course that stretches over 7,000 yards with water hazards coming into play on seven holes. Pro Shop. Clubs and cart rentals.Call for rates, specials, and tee times. www.golfcarambola.com

Open Monday – Saturday, 8 am – 11:30 am and 3 – 6:30 pm; Sunday, 8 am – noon. Eight East End courts; lighted courts by appointment. Pro Shop and Game Match Service. Tennis Pro available for lessons. Call to reserve court time. www.thebuccaneer.com

The Buccaneer Hotel – 340-712-2144

Open 7 days a week, 7:30 am – 6 pm. An East End, 18-hole course that takes the player over rolling hills to the water’s edge with incredible views! Call for rates and tee times. Pro Shop. www.thebuccaneer.com

Divi Carina Bay Resort – 340-773-9700

“The Links” Mini Golf Course, 18-Holes, Driving Range, Clubhouse. Temporarily closed for renovations. www.divicarinabay.com

The Reef Golf Course – 340-773-8844 Open Tuesday – Sunday, 8 am – 3 pm. A beautiful 9-hole course on the East End with phenomenal views over Teague Bay, offering traditional and Disc golf. Pro Shop. Clubs and cart rentals. Tee times not required.

We’ve been in conversation with the Port Authority and some community partners and it’s very possible we will spend a week or two in Frederiksted this season to provide hands on program walking distance to our Claude O. Markoe students particularly those who don’t have access to computers and internet. Regardless of whether we are able to be in Frederiksted for a portion of the season, we plan to have our crew go out into the community to support students in safe outdoor spaces, providing experiential learning activities similar to what we’d do on the boat, without the complication of transportation logistics.

The Buccaneer Hotel courts.

Steve Simonsen

Par 72 Championship Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.

Let me know if you have any questions. I sure hope you’re doing well, and am grateful for all your support! Warmest regards, Eden

Carambola Golf Club. Challenging 18-hole course. Kelly Greer

Eden M Leonard President and Executive Director World Ocean School aboard Roseway

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Claude O. Markoe 5th Grade Students. WOS

Photo by Kelly Greer

Tee times from 7:30am - 4pm

72 Estate River 340-778-5638

www.golfcarambola.com December 20 / Januar y 21 • 47

Destination St. Croix GOOD TO KNOW!

DRIVE LEFT Whether renting a car or crossing the street, it is vital to remember that traffic in the USVI flows from the left side of the road. St. Croix has two towns—Christiansted at the center on the North Shore and Frederiksted at the West End. The Caribbean Sea, which surrounds the island, is always there to guide you along the roads that wind around the coast. Car rental agencies have a variety of vehicles available from sporty jeeps to roomy air-conditioned sedans, vans, and SUVs. The average price usually includes unlimited mileage but you fill the tank upon return! Both US and other driver’s licenses are recognized. The driver and front seat passenger are required by law to use seat belts and cell phone talking or texting is not allowed. Parking in Christiansted is limited. There is daytime parking in the National Park Service lot near Ft. Christiansvaern, until 4:30 pm, and a public lot with fees on Strand and King Cross Street. Running from mid-island west to within 1 mile of Frederiksted is the 4-lane, divided Melvin H. Evans Highway. The speed limit is 55. In other areas, the 35 mph limit applies; in town, 20 mph unless otherwise posted.

WORSHIP St. Croix’s history is mirrored in its old church structures. The Moravian brethren, arriving here in the 1730s from Saxony in today’s Germany, founded their mission to bring Christianity to the enslaved part of the population. The historic Anglican (Episcopalian) churches built in Gothic style include St. John’s in Christiansted and, in Frederiksted, St. Paul’s church. The large number of Irish settlers, along with Englishmen and Hispanics, have contributed to the presence of the Catholic church; Holy Cross in Christiansted is the oldest in the Virgin Islands. The Danish rule of the island from 1733 to 1917 brought the Lutheran church, which still plays a large role here. Lord God of Sabaoth in Christiansted occupies the former Dutch Reformed Church; Holy Trinity in Frederiksted was built shortly after the town was founded. The Dutch Reformed church (Presbyterian) now has a new midisland home. There are 150 churches on St. Croix, from SeventhDay Adventist to Methodist, Baptist, Church of God, and many more. Church attendance and activities are important to a large part of our population; visitors are always welcome at services, often a high point in their island experience. Many other faiths offer places of worship—a Jewish synagogue, a Hindu temple, and a Muslim mosque, to name a few. A church listing can be found in the yellow pages of our local phone book beginning on Page 48. 48 • December 20 / Januar y 21

7 FLAG HISTORY HISTORY is what this island has an abundance of, going back several thousand years. Back then, the Amerindian population that had migrated here from South America called it Ay Ay. A tribe known as Caribs lent their name to the region and was encountered at Salt River in 1493 by the first Europeans, the 17-ship fleet of Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the new world. He claimed the island for Spain and called it Santa Cruz, the Spanish version of its present name. Over the following centuries, many European nations started exploiting the Caribbean archipelago, with the British, Dutch, and French joining Spain in taking possession of the rich resources found in some of the islands, battling pirates that posed a dramatic challenge to the treasures derived from mineral resources. But agriculture, in the form of sugar cane cultivation, turned out to be a winning formula, as sugar, and its by-product rum, were incredibly valuable crops. Under changing ownership by the Dutch, British and French, including a brief ownership by the Knights of Malta, this island did not prosper, and it was sparsely colonized. The French, that owned it from the mid-1600’s and gave it its present name, actually abandoned it around 1700 having failed at developing a viable plantation economy. For over 30 years St. Croix returned to its natural state, when a business enterprise of the little Scandinavian nation of Denmark, that since 1666 had taken possession of St. Thomas and later St. John to the north of St. Croix, in 1733 made the

decision to expand and purchase this island from the French. Known as the Danish West India and Guinea Company, it excelled in sugar cultivation and export made possible by slave trade from West Africa, a necessity for developing a large-scale operation of sugar cane harvests, for which this island was ideally suited thanks to its terrain and rainfall. In no time, the island was transformed, with forests giving way to planted sugar cane fields by thousands of enslaved persons who, after being brought here under horrific conditions, toiled in the fields under the hot sun. The island’s cane fields and accompanying estate structures were owned by an assortment of nationalities, with the English, Scots and Irish dominating, but the military and administration was run by Danes, after the island ownership was conferred to the Danish king in 1771. Soon, a lot of money was made here, but at a high cost of human life. The island posed health risks from tropical diseases and poor hygienic standards and opposition to the cruel treatment of the enslaved eventually brought about emancipation in 1848, several years after the British-owned islands had initiated it. But the fact that cane sugar was not so valuable since beet sugar now competed with it made conditions worse, and a revolt in 1878 led to further decline. So the islands of the Danish West Indies, as the three were called, were a sad sight and, in the early 20th century when WW1 was underway, the United States took interest in us for our strategic location, particularly as the Panama Canal had just been completed, and Germany was threatening to take possession of us. At a price of $25 million in gold, the transfer of the islands, to be known as the United States Virgin Islands, took place on March 31, 1917. And, the rest is History, of a different kind.

Frederiksted Promenade from the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts.

Atlantic Ocean Puerto Rico

Tortola

St. Thomas

BVI

St. John

Culebra Vieques

Christiansted

Caribbean Sea

Frederiksted

●

★

St. Croix

LOCATION/SIZE. St. Croix coordinates are 17 45’N x 64 45’W. We are part of the US Virgin Islands, located 90 miles East of Puerto Rico, and part of the Antilles chain from the Bahamas down to Trinidad. St. Croix is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, is 82.8 square miles, 28 miles long x 7 miles wide. GETTING HERE. There are direct flights on American Airlines from Miami and Delta Airlines from Atlanta. Inter-island airlines are operated by Cape Air, Seaborne, and Sea Flight VI. AE IV Ferry Service operates between St. Thomas and St. Croix. US citizens don’t need a passport; departing visitors need a photo ID. CLIMATE. Year-round temperatures range in the 80s during the day, 70s most nights, with summer somewhat warmer. Easterly trade winds keep the humidity down. Most island showers are over in minutes. Residents collect rainwater from rooftops into household cisterns. Saltwater distillation plants help the supply. With water scarce, it is used sparingly.

VIRGIN ISLANDERS. Virgin Islanders are a reserved but friendly people. “Good Morning,” “Good Afternoon,” and “Good Night” are welcome Crucian greetings. Everyone speaks English or a lilting version of it. TIME. We are on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), one hour earlier than EST but the same as EST during Daylight Savings. CURRENCY & BANKING. We use the US dollar and credit cards are accepted everywhere. First Bank (all branches) open Mon-Th, 8:30am-4pm, Fri, 8:30am-5pm. Sunny Isle & Frederiksted branches, Sat, 9am-1pm. Banco Popular Orange Grove open Mon-Fri, 8am4pm, Sunny Isle, Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm, Sat, 9am1pm. Bank of St. Croix, Gallows Bay and Peter’s Rest open Mon-Th, 9am-3pm, Fri, 9am-3:30pm. See maps for locations. TAXES. No sales tax but a 12.5% government tax is applied to hotel rooms. COMMUNICATIONS. We have several radio stations and three television stations. Cable and Dish TV carry the national news stations. Pick up the St. Croix Avis and the VI Daily News in print and go online to St. Croix Source for local news. TELEPHONE & CELL PHONE. The local area code is 340 but you don’t need to dial it for local numbers. We have a local AT&T Store at Sunny Isle Shopping Center, 340-778-6400 and Sprint Store in Peter’s Rest, 340-713-0055 for forgotten cell phone accessories or information. POSTAL RATES. As part of the US postal system, 1st class mail is .50 cents for the first

Susan Wall

ounce, postcards are .35 cents, international rates are $1.20 for cards and letters. See maps for post office locations. WHAT TO WEAR. Island dress is casual but bathing suits and men without shirts in town or grocery stores is frowned upon. Men don’t need ties or jackets; hats are great sun protectors for everyone. No adaptors needed for personal plug-ins. MARINE LIFE. All native plants, animals, fish (unless harvested for food), coral and shells are protected under the Indigenous Species Act. You will not be permitted to leave the territory with any plants or marine life in your possession. HOLIDAYS. We celebrate US Federal holidays and local ones as well. The government closes for all holidays, banks close for most. Shops stay open except on major holidays. VISITORS BUREAU. Department of Tourism offices are located upstairs in the Frederiksted Mall, next to the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts on Strand Street. Open weekdays and cruise ship days, 340-772-0357. A smaller office, in the Kings Alley Hotel lobby in Christiansted, is open Monday-Saturday, 10-5pm. EMERGENCY NUMBERS. 911 Police, Fire, Ambulance, Landline 340-772-9111—Police, Fire, Ambulance, Cell Phone 919-684-2948—Divers Alert Network 340-773-2244—VI Territorial Emergency Management 340-778-6311—St. Croix Hospital 340-776-5283—AA 340-473-1497—Alanon December 20 / Januar y 21 • 49

Staying Here Air Conditioned Beach Casino Children facilities / daycare Fitness Center Full Kitchen and Patio / Deck Golf Hiking Trails Internet Non-Smoking Pets Allowed Pool Restaurant Spa Tennis Watersports Wetbar / Microwave Whirlpool

Easy Hotel Guide

Phone The local area code is (340)

BE OUR GUEST!

Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River 340-772 1684 Buccaneer

F 340-712-2100 F F

Caravelle Hotel & Casino 340-773-0687 Caribbean Breeze Apartments 340-227-9853 & Vacation Homes Chenay Bay Beach Resort 340-201-1309

F FFFFFF

F F F FFFF F F F Club Comanche / Hotel St. Croix 340-773-0210 F F Club St. Croix 340-718-9150 F F F F Colony Cove 340-718-1965 F F F F Company House Hotel 340-773-1377 F F Cottages By The Sea 340-772-0495 F F F Cruzan Classic 340-332-2504 F F Cruzan Sands Villa 972-747-7575 F F F F F Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort* 340-773-9700 F F F F F F F F Frederiksted Hotel 340-772-0500 F F F Holger Danske Hotel 340-773-3600 F F F Hotel on the Cay 340-773-2035 F F F F King Christian Hotel 340-773-6330 F F F F King’s Alley Hotel 340-773-0103 F F Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge 340-201-7983 F FF F Northside Valley 340-772-0558 F FF Palms at Pelican Cove 340-718-8920 F F F FF Renaissance Carambola Beach Resort* 340-778-3800 F F F F F F Sand Castle on the Beach 340-772-1205 F F FF FF F Sugar Beach St. Croix 340-718-5345 F F F FF F Tamarind Reef Resort, Spa & Marina 340-718-4455 F F F F F The Fred 1-844-789-8784 F F F FFFF The Waves at Cane Bay 340-718-1815 F F F F Vacation St. Croix 340-718-0361 F F F 50 • December 20 / Januar y 21

F F F F F F F F

F F

F F F F

FF F FFF F F FFF F FFF

F F FFFFF F F F FF F FF F FF F F

F F F FFFFF F FF FFF FFFFF FF F F F F

tay awhile! Come for your wedding, your honemoon, a romatiic or otherwise get-away, or family vacation! The Buccaneer—tennis, watersports, shopping, spa, beaches, pools, restaurants, and golf! www.thebuccaneer.com

*Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort and Renaissance Carambola Beach Resort closed for renovations. Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Rentals—gated, historic Frederiksted property. Walk to beaches, pier, shopping, dining. Studios, 1-bdrms. 1/2-acre garden, BBQ/kitchen, pool. www.airbnb.com/rooms/2989620. Club Comanche, Hotel St. Croix— landmark hotel in Christiansted National Historic District. West Indian charm, pool, restaurants. Main House or Bridgehouse. www.clubcomanche.com Cruzan Sands—luxury beachfront villa in Estate Salt River. Family friendly, sleeps 8! Sandy beach, great view from covered wraparound porch. www.cruzansands.com Hotel on the Cay—on a private cay in Christiansted Harbor! 53-room resort for couples, families and adventure seekers. Restaurant, terraces, beach, pool, watersports. www.hotelonthecay.com The Fred—the first new hotel on St. Croix since 1986! 22-rooms, beachfront, spa in historic Frederiksted. An eco-friendly resort “off the grid.” www.SleepWithFred.com Holger Danske Hotel—Christiansted Boardwalk. Boutique size, 42 rooms. Large balconies, restaurant, pool deck overlooks harbor, ferry ride to beach. www.holgerhotel.com

1200 King Cross Street Christiansted Boardwalk

holgerdan@aol.com www.holgerhotel.com Nates Boathouse Restaurant

1-(877)- HOLGERD

•

(340) 773 - 3600

Staying Here GRACIOUSLY LOCAL!

Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Homes

Club Comanche

Hotel on the Cay

The Fred

Cruzan Sands

EXPERIENCE THE CHARM OF FREDERIKSTED!

Susan Wall

Holger Danske Hotel

Susan Wall

New! - RIGHT on the Beach! 3-4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath - Northside!

HISTORIC DANISH PARSONAGE • LUSH GATED COURTYARD

ALL NEW STUDIOS AND 1 BEDROOMS

TuesdayBreeze - Saturday, 11am - 9Homes pm Caribbean Apartments & Vacation Prince Street, Frederiksted • 340-227-9853 https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2989620

972-747-7575 www.CruzanSands.com • Relax@CruzanSands.com

A Historic Caribbean Retreat on the Christiansted Boardwalk

340-773-0210 NOW OPEN www.clubcomanche.com

SleepWithFred.com

/SleepWithFred (340) 777.FRED (3733) 605 Strand Street, Frederiksted, VI 00840

“Step into an atmosphere of casual elegance” Hotel on tHe Cay (855) 654-0301 reservations www.hotelonthecay.com December 20 / Januar y 21 • 51

Getting Around

BOOK WITH A SENSE OF ADVENTURE!

TAXI SERVICES Believe It Taxi Service..................340-690-3774 Epidel Taxi & Tours...............................340-643-0205 St. Croix Taxi Association, Airport:...340-778-1088

Taxi Rates

FROM AIRPORT TO:

Keep left!

Ted Davis

OLYMPIC—ACE Rent A Car

46 Years on St. Croix!

Experience Olympic’s Friendliness! www.olympicstcroix.com • CARS: Wranglers, 4WD, Soft Top, w/AC, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Versa, Focus, Toyota Yaris, Minivans, SUV’s •Unlimited Mileage - Low Rates • Most Credit Cards Honored • FREE pickup & return to most locations. We meet all flights at anytime.

340-718-3000 • 1103 Richmond Conveniently located 1 minute away from the seaplane at the entrance to Christiansted.

1 2 or More, Person each pay

The Buccaneer.............................$20 Carambola...................................$20 Christiansted.................................$16 Cotton Valley................................$24 Divi Carina Bay............................$24 Frederiksted..................................$12 Green Cay......................................$22 Shoy’s............................................. $20 The Palms at Pelican Cove......... $16 Tamarind Reef Resort................. $21

($10) ($10) ($9) ($11) ($12) ($6) ($11) ($10) ($9) ($11)

FROM CHRISTIANSTED TO: The Buccaneer................................$9 Cane Bay........................................$24 Carambola.....................................$30 Divi Carina Bay............................$18 Frederiksted..................................$24 Gallows Bay.....................................$6 The Palms at Pelican Cove..........$16 Tamarind Reef Resort..................$12

($5) ($11) ($12) ($9) ($11) ($3) ($9) ($6)

FROM FREDERIKSTED TO: Carambola.....................................$27 ($11) Christiansted.................................$24 ($11) Divi Carina Bay............................$36 ($18)

QE IV FERRY SERVICE St. Croix to St. Thomas

$60 One Way

Schedule subject to weather conditions

rent@olympicstcroix.com Call us direct: 888-USVI-CAR (888-878-4227) or fax: (340) 718-9000 No other discounts apply.

Restrictions may apply.

10% DISCOUNT

with this coupon presented at the time of rental on direct reservations only. Valid April 15 - December 1. 52 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Depart St. Croix 8 am Arrive St. Thomas 10:20 am BOOK ONLINE! Depart St. Thomas 3 pm www.qe4ferry.com Arrive St. Croix 5:20 pm (340) 473-1322

TAXI INFORMATION

■ Christiansted Taxi Stands are on King Street near Government House and in Frederiksted near Ft. Frederik.

CONFIRM THE RATE BEFORE GETTING IN A TAXI AS TAXIS ARE NOT METERED ON ST. CROIX. RATES MUST BE POSTED IN THE TAXI.

■ These taxi rates to and from the Airport and

Towns were obtained from the Taxi Commission and have been approved by the VI Legislature. Look for only licensed taxis which carry a dome light and the letters TP on their license plate.

Taxi Charges & Special Provisions ■ The charges to areas not listed in this schedule

shall be arrived at by using the nearest place with a rate crossed to the next place ahead with a rate closest to the passenger’s destination. ■ A taxi driver, while on duty, shall not refuse any passenger unless the passenger is intoxicated and disorderly or in the possession of a pet (other than a seeing eye or service dog) that is not properly secured in a kennel. No charge for service dogs. Large kennel charge, $30., small kennel, $20. ■ Round-trip fares – double the 1-way fare plus waiting charge of $1. per minute after 5 min. ■ Radio/Phone call—the fare plus 1/3 of the basic fare. ■ Exclusive Taxi Request— pays the rate charged for 4 passengers. ■ Luggage—A flat rate of $2. Per bag is added for each passenger. The rate for items larger than 30” x 29” will not exceed $4. ■ Hourly Rates—Sedan/Mini Van (1-4 passengers), $40., Van (up to 14), $55., Safari (up to 25), $80. Rates for additional passengers will be negotiated between the taxi operator and passenger(s). ■ Sightseeing Tours—1-4 passengers, $100.00, 5+ passengers, $20. each for 3-hour tour. ■ Questions or Complaints—Call the VI Taxi Cab Commission at 340-773-1561, M-F, 8amnoon, 1-5pm. www.tcc@vi.gov

EPIDEL Taxi Service & Tours

Amador Delerme • 340-643-0205 amadordelerme2015@gmail.com stxepidelvi@gmail.com

LOWEST Rates Cars, Jeeps, SUVs, Vans! Seasonal Specials!

Low Rates Friendly Service JEEPS CARS SUVs VANS Free Vehicle Delivery to many Hotels!

Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental

Consistently Voted Best Car Rental

Reservations budgetstcroix.com or Call 340.713.9289 • Toll Free 888.264.8894 • Airport 340.778.9636 • Christiansted by Seaplane 340.713.9289 • Cruise Ship Passengers call for reservations 340.713.9289

Renter must be 25 or older (ages 23-24 an underage driver fee applies), have valid driver's license & major credit card. An independent Budget Systems Licensee.

December 20 / Januar y 21 • 53

On-the-Go Destinations! FIND IT HERE! IN, ON, AND BY THE WATER.

A 0

ELEVATIONS 1000' - 1200' 800' - 1000' 600' - 800' 400' - 600' 200' - 400' Sea Level - 200'

15 S ce n

The Wall

or h Sh t r o N

e Rd 1

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i c Ro ad

H 7 Salt River Ba y Nati Ecological Preser

Cane Bay

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6 5

Columbus Landing

s id e R d N o r th

Rainbow Beach

6 1

20 4

St. Croix LEAP Lawaetz Museum

4 (C Botanical Garden of ghway i H y r 17 the Virgin Islands 14 Queen Ma

Beaches Buck Island. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-0 Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Colombus Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 Cramer Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O-1 Dorsch Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 Rainbow Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3 Reef Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 Sandy Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5 Shoy Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 St. Croix East End Marine Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 2. RE/MAX St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2

l vi

.Ev nH

H ns

HENRY E. ROHLSEN AIRPORT 1

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

6/ Post Offices Banks 1. Banco Popular ATM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2, H-3 2. Bank of St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 3. First Bank ATM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2, H-3 4. Kings Hill Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 5. Oriental Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 6. Richmaond Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2

13 16

1 11

Airlines 1. Cape Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4

54 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Estate Whim Museum

oad)

ine R enterl

Vincent F. Mason, Sr. Coral Resort Sandy Point

FREDERIKSTED

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4 4

d. any R

g Maho

Carambola Golf Course

Rain Fores t

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3. St. Croix Island Life Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 Condos 1. Club St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2. Coakley Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 3. Colony Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 4. Mill Harbour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 5. The Reef. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 6. St. C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 7. Schooner Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 8. Sugar Beach St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 Farm Stand Fresh 1. ARTfarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-4 2. La Reine Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 3. Ridge to Reef (VISFI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2 4. Sejah Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-3 5. Southgate Corner Farmer’s Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 6. Tropics Hydroponics Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-2 Food & Drink 1. A Better Day Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2. Beach Side Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 3. Blue Water Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 4. Cast Iron Pot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 5. Cheeseburger’s In Paradise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1

ig h w a y

6 Juan Luis 5 10 Hospital 15 3 15 2 1 5 1 2 9

Hope

Hovensa

1/2 1 mile

0 1/2 1 kilometre 6. Deep End Bar & Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-2 7. Duggan’s Reef. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 8. El Flamboyant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 9. Goat, Soup & Whiskey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-3 10. Grounded Café. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 11. La Reine Chicken Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-2 12. Leatherback Brewing Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 13. Leatherback Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 14. Plaza Extra West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4 15. Sion Farm Distillery (MUTINY Island Vodka). . . . . .H-3 16. Sorbetiere Ice Cream & Sorbet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 Getting Around 1. Avis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 2. Budget Car Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 3. Centerline Car Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 4. Olympic - Ace Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 Hotels 1. Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 2. Chenay Bay Beach Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-1 3. Cottages By the Sea. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 4. Cruzan Sands Villa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-0 5. Discovery Grove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1 6. Divi Carina Beach Resort and Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . N-2 7. Hotel on the Cay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2

St. Croix Road Map FIND IT HERE! SCENIC ROUTES.

ional Park & ve

4 8

13 1 7 12

6 1 4

7 8

3 5

East End

14 3 7

S pring

5 6

e Rd

V.L . Baseline Array Telescope 10

St. Croix Yacht Club

Point Udall

Grapetree Bay

hor uth S

t Rd Gu

hore R

Cramer Park Teague Bay

Chenay Bay

By-Pass

S South

East End Marine Park

Green Cay

Green Cay Marina

CHRISTIANSTED 3

BUCK ISLAND REEF NATIONAL MONUMENT

Great Salt Pond

East End Marine Park Management Zones

St. Croix Dive Sites A series of dive site descriptions. 11.

The Pavilions – Lots of coral and sponge, a very colorful dive. Sting Rays in sand on top of wall and occasional school of Spade Fish. Lobster and crabs and tons of reef fish call this home. 12. The famous “Wall” at Cane Bay – Most popular beach dive on St. Croix, a bit of a swim North from the beach puts you in 3,000 feet of water. Great dive for beginners, lots of coral heads in shallow water and then the dramatic drop for the certified divers.

No Take Zone – Protects near shore environments including mangroves, sea grass beds, lagoonal patch reefs, and linear reefs. OPERATING A PERSONAL WATERCRAFT IS PROHIBITED. ALL FISHING AND EXTRACTION IS PROHIBITED. Recreational Zone – Allows snorkeling, diving, boating, and recreational shoreline fishing. Catch-and-release guide fishing, and cast-net bait fishing are allowed with a Marine Park Permit. ALL OTHER TRADITIONAL FISHING IS PROHIBITED (including but not limited to: fish traps; spear fishing; collection of lobster, conch whelk). Wildlife Preserve Zone – Protects nesting female sea turtles using beaches in East End, Issac, Jack and Boiler Bays to lay eggs.

Brought to you by Dive Experience, Christiansted boardwalk.

8. Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2 9. Northside Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1 10. Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort. . . . D-1 11. Sand Castle On the Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 12. Tamarind Reef Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 13. The Buccaneer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 14. The Palms at Pelican Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 15. Waves at Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Other Interests 1. Captain Morgan Distillery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 2. Caribbean Community Theater (CCT). . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 3. Cruzan Rum Distillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 4. Estate Whim Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4 5. Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center . . . . . . H-2 6. Island Center for the Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . . . H-2 7. Hams Bluff Lighthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 8. Library for the Blind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 9. Men’s Coalition of the VI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 10. Point Udall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P-1 11. Randall “Doc” James Racetrack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 12. Salt River National Historic Park & Ecological Preserve . G-0 13. St. Croix Seashell Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 14. St. Croix Yacht Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 15. Sunny Isle Shopping Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 16. The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands . . . . . . . D-4

17. University of the Virgin Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-3 Shop Duty Free 1. J + H Clothing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-4 2. Plaza Extra East. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 3. Sweet Lime Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-3 4. The Museum Store at Botanical Gardens. . . . . . . . . D-4 Sports 1. Buccaneer Golf / Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 2. Carambola Golf Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2 3. Llewellyn’s Charter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 4. Mermaid Adventures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4, G-1 5. Sea Thru Kayaks VI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 6. Sweet Bottom Dive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 7. Teroro II & Dragonfly Day Sail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 8. The Reef Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 9. Virgin Kayak Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-0 10. West End Water Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3

FOR YOUR SAFETY “St. Croix, the Island With a Heart” AED Locations Go to stcroixaed.home.comast.net for all current locations; updated constantly. Of interest to our visitors: Cruise Ship Pier, Carambola Golf Course, St. George Village Botanical Gardens & Whim Museum; Cost U Less & Plaza East, hotels, condos, police stations. Download Crowdsav App to your smartphone & press the “Locate AED” button for location & directions to the nearest one. Know where one is closest to where you live, work, pray, play, and shop before you need it!

PETER’S REST CONVENIENCE CENTER Located on Rt. 62 between Rt. 68 and Rt. 70 taking Residential Household Waste, Green Waste, Bulk Waste, Scrap Metal & White Goods plus Household Hazardous Waste. You can also recycle your aluminum and steels cans here to support the Boys & Girls Club. Operated by Virgin Islands Waste Management. Operating Hours — Monday – Friday, 6 am – 7 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 6 am – 5 pm, Holidays, 6 am – 2 pm. December 20 / Januar y 21 • 55

Get Around Like a Local! FIND IT HERE! EXPLORE HISTORIC CHRISTIANSTED. 5

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Banks & Post Offices 1. Bank of St. Croix ATM 2. First Bank ATM 3. Post Office, Company Street 4. Post Office, Gallows Bay Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty 2. Joe & Julie San Martin at RE/MAX St. Croix 2. Emeyln Sayre at RE/MAX St. Croix 2. RE/MAX St. Croix Food & Drink 1. 40 Eats & Drinks 2. BREWSTX 3. Café Christine / ART GALLERY 4. Dynamite Tacos 5. Grounded Cafe 56 • December 20 / Januar y 21

6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.

Luncheria Maria’s Cantina Nates Boathouse Nauti Bar & Grille Rum and Wine Bar Restuarant Salty Beetchz Seaside Market & Deli Shupe’s on the Boardwalk The Courtyard The Mill Boardwalk Bar & Brick Oven Pizza TOAST Diner

Get Fit/Be Well 1. Cultured Naturals Body Care & Home Scents 2. PamperedVI Getting Around 1. Budget St. Croix 2. Centerline Car Rentals 3. Seaborne Seaplane Ramp

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Local Art 1. Art @ Top Hat 2. Christa’s Art Gallery 3. Henle Studio 4. Maufe Gallery Other Interests 1. Alanon Meetings 2. Anglican Church 3. Catholic Church 4. Christian “Shan” Hendricks Farmer’s Market 5. Department of Tourism Visitor’s Bureau 6. Florence Williams Public Library 7. Lutheran Church 8. Moravian Church 9. National Park Service (NPS Headquarters) 10. Public Restrooms

P - Parking Christiansted National Historic Site Christiansted National Historic District Shop Duty Free 1. Asha World Designs 2. Baci Duty Free 3. Bead on a Wire 4. Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts 5. Crucian Gold 6. Ebbe’s Store 7. Eden South 8. Fleur 9. Hotheads 10. ib designs 11. Joyia Inspirational Jewelry 12. Juju & Cece’s Lemonade & Treats at Cultured Naturals 13. Rare Finds 14. RJS Handmade Designs 15. Small Wonder 16. SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry 17. Sublime STX 18. Susan Mango 19. The Shoe Bar

Christiansted Map

FIND IT HERE! CONNECT WITH OUR CULTURE & HISTORY.

CHRISTIANSTED WALKING TOUR Let’s start a leisurely walking tour of CHRISTIANSTED at the site of the Old Scale House 1 on the harborfront, known as the Wharf. One section of the 1856 structure displays the scale used in former days to weigh barrels of rum and sugar. The other section holds a bookstore and gift shop as well as an information center about all things St. Croix. This is one of a complex of five buildings comprising the Christiansted National Historic Site, established in 1952, administered by the National Park Service.

Fort Christiansvaern 3 was the first public building to be started by the Danes after the island was purchased from France in 1733. It is built of Danish yellow brick and was completed in 1749 and later expanded. Its present appearance reflects the 1830’s period.

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The exhibit rooms have shifting exhibits of local relevance. See Events Calendar for current exhibits. Admission tickets sold at the entrance ($7). No fee for children under 16. Senior passes accepted.

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Nearby, The Old Customs House 2 with its sweeping staircase, on the grassy area next to the Fort, was completed in 1830. It now holds National Park Service offices.

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Open every day from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm which also coincides with the hours of the adjacent Fort Parking Lot whose hours are strictly enforced. Brochures for all three parks available. The Steeple Building 4 across Hospital Street, formerly the Lutheran Church dates from 1753. This site, on the Walking Tour, is currently closed for renovation. Across Company Street lies the onetime Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse 5 , built in 1749. In its courtyard, slave auctions were formerly held. NPS 2nd Thursday Lectures held here.

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CHRISTIANSTED FOR YOUR SAFETY AED Locations in Christiansted i n case you need them American Legion Hall • Company House Customs House • Government House Marshall & Sterling • NPS headquarters

20. Tropical Bracelet 21. Undercover Books & Gifts Staying Here 1. Carvelle Hotel & Casino 2. Club Comanche / Hotel St. Croix 3. Company House Hotel 4. Holger Danske Hotel 5. Hotel on the Cay 6. Kings Alley Hotel 7. King Christian Tours 1. One North Street Watersports 1. Big Beard’s Adventure Tours 2. Caribbean Sea Adventures 3. Dive Experience

Originally, Government House 6 on King Street, was built as a home for a Danish merchant. That section dates from 1749; another section, the previous town house of a wealthy Danish plantation owner, was joined to it in 1826, together becoming the seat of the Danish West Indies government. The grand staircase and portico were added in 1830, as was the impressive ballroom/reception hall on the second floor by Governor General Peter von Scholten, who had his office and official residence here. The former are open to the public (entrance at mid-building on King Street). The Lutheran Church 7 across Queen Cross Street on King Street, was originally the Dutch Reformed Church, built in the 1740’s and transferred to the Lutherans in 1831, who brought the furnishings here from the Steeple Building. Later, the steeple was added. Walking up Queen Cross Street to Company Street takes you to Apothecary Hall 8 on the left corner, which holds both the tiny Apothecary Museum on Queen Cross Street, open anytime, and in the courtyard the Archaeological Museum, open only Saturdays 10 am-2 pm. Nearby on Company Street is the Old Market 9 , laid out in the original town plan from 1735, and still being used. The well dates from 1863. On this square you will also find the downtown Post Office.

Christiansted National Historic Site Established in 1952, Christiansted National Historic Site was the first unit of the National Park Saystem in the US Virgin Islands. The park’s historic buidings and grounds commemorate the Danish heritage (1733-1917) of the town of Christiansted, St. Croix, which was named in honor of the reigning King of Denmark and Norway, Christian VI. In the 1700s, Christiansted was part of a mercantile system that linked Europe,West Africa, and the Caribbean in the infamous “Triangular Trade.” Christiansted was the first town in the Lesser Antilles to be built on the grid system and to have a building code. Its distinctive colonial architecture reflects the town’s status as capital of the Danish West Indies (1755-1871); the great wealth generated by the export of cane sugar, molasses, and rum; and the influence of government building inspectors. December / Januar 21 •57 57 June20 / July 2014 •yPage

Frederiksted Map

FIND IT HERE! DISCOVER THE WEST END.

Your tour of Frederiksted begins at Fort Frederik 1 by the cruise ship pier and newly revitalized waterfront. Construction on the Fort began in 1752 and was completed in 1760. Featuring a museum with several permanent exhibits, and an art gallery, it is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm. Admission $5., children under 12 free. A public beach with showers and bathrooms is next to Fort Frederik.

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Locations north of Frederiksted

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FOR YOUR SAFETY

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AED Locations in Frederiksted

American Legion Hall Botanical Garden Cruise Ship Pier Fire Station Police Bike Patrol Unit Sandcastle on the Beach Vincent Mason Pool Whim Museum

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Butler Bay Arnageddon Rainbow Reef Frederiksted Pier Swirling Reef of Death

Go to www.n2theblue.com for a listing of all 40 sites!

Locations East of Frederiksted on Queen Mary Highway (Route 70)

Estate Whim Museum • St. George Village Botanical Garden 3 ◆

58 • December 20 / Januar y 21

Governor General Peter von Scholten proclaimed the emancipation of the enslaved population in the Danish West Indies on July 3, 1848, from adjacent Buddhoe Park 2. The park contains a bronze bust of the renowned slave rebellion leader. The Oscar E. Henry Customs House 3 was built in the 1800s. The Freedom Fountain 4, facing the pier, was installed for the Emancipation 150th Anniversary Celebration. After severe damage during a labor insurrection in 1878, the town was rebuilt in Victorian style. Victoria House 5, on Strand Street, and Apothecary Hall 6, 63 on King Cross Street between King and Queen Streets, preserve the Frederksted architecture of that time. Both received storm damage in September. The Visitor’s Bureau 7, is located upstairs on Strand Street above the Frederiksted Mall and next door to the historic light blue building housing the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts 8. Frederiksted is home to a number of historic churches, including St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 9, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 10, Friedensberg Moravian Church 11, and St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church 12. The Arthur Able Complex 13, formerly The Danish School (1799), is now the office of the Governor in Fredersted at Hospital and Market Street. At Strand and Queen Cross Streets is the Athalie McFarlane Petersen Public Library 14, built in 1803. The Market Place 15, is still in use today, as it was in 1751 at the founding of Frederiksted.

WEST END ATTRACTIONS

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FREDERIKSTED WALKING TOUR

Tour an early Danish homestead, the Lawaetz Family Museum 1 at Estate Little 702 La Grange on Mahogany Road. Plantation ruins offer visitors a tranquil backdrop 63the Mt. Washington Labyrinth 2 , 2 miles North of for peace and contemplation at Frederiksted. Open everyday, year-round. The entrance gate is to the left when you reach the property and parking lot. The Whim Museum 3 , on Centerline Road, is a fully-restored sugar cane plantation for self and guided tours and The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands 4 , also on Centerline, showcases 1500 native & exotic species. Award-winning Ridge to Reef Farm 5 , on Creque Dam Road, is a USDA Certified Organic Farm with produce, tours, and workshops. The Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is .5 mile beyond the west end of the Melvin H. Evans highway. See Events Calendar and Attractions & Tours for more info.

Banks & Post offices 1. 1st Bank ATM 2. Post Office

12. Public Restrooms 13. Rotary Club of St. Croix West 14. St. Croix Country Club

Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker Real Estate

Shop Duty Free 1. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts 2. Franklin’s on the Waterfront

Food & Drink 1. Beach Side Café 2. Cibone 3. Six Nine Restaurant & Bar 4. Tap Deck 5. The Fred Other Interests 1. Albert Edwards Fish Market 2. American Legion Hall 3. Emile Henderson, Sr. Fire Station 4. Ft. Frederik Beach Bathhouse 5. Frederiksted Community Boating & Sailing Assoc. 6. Frederiksted Health Care 7. Hams Bluff Lighthouse (north of Frederiksted) 8. Legislature of the Virgin Islands 9. Our Town Frederiksted 10. Paul E. Joseph Stadium 7011. Police Bike Patrol Unit

Sports 1. Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism 2. Cruzan Cowgirls 3. Island Kayak Sailing Adventures 4. Lyric Sails 5. Mermaid Adventures 6. Nep2une Scuba Diving 7. West End Water Sports Staying Here 1. Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Homes 2. Cottages By the Sea 3. Frederiksted Hotel 4. Mt. Victory Camp 5. Sand Castle on the Beach 6. The Fred Hotel

REFLECTIONS ON ST. CROIX THIS WEEK’S 50 YEARS ANNIVERSARY continued from page 23

50 YEARS

1971-2021

Nina York, Chris Goodier, 2003

As it turned out, I could work from home, a bonus helping me with caring for my elderly husband. Starting in February 1990, my task of promoting St. Croix to visitors seemed daunting, But as I eased into the job, learning new skills by the seat of my pants, I found it exciting, bringing me in contact with such a large segment of the local business community, and over the 13 years I remained as Editor, I was able to make new friends with so many persons throughout

her task with skill for four years, bringing her experience to the pages of the everimproving publication. But health problems forced her resignation and relocation, and for over a year, temporary editors were put in charge, along with an ongoing search for a permanent managing editor with the required experience and creativity. The serendipitous ﬁnd of a long-time resident with considerable experience in the hospitality sector at Whim Plantation Museum as successful event planner, preceded by early stateside experience at

Fran Newbold, Kevin Amsler, and Susan Wall with the first of many VI Daily News "Best Visitor Publication of the Virgin Islands on St. Croix" awards over the years, 2010.

2001

St. Croix and elsewhere. Over that time, I had a chance to get to know Margot and her family and friends at visits to her spectacular residence in St. Thomas and participate in numerous business conferences and fancy social events and tourism-oriented seminars. In 2003, my triple other obligations forced me to resign, but I had a successor available, Chris Goodier, a resident friend with great journalistic and promotional skills developed in the DC area. I had already given notice the previous year when Margot Bachman had made the decision to sell the St. Thomas and St. Croix publications to Morris Caribbean Publications based in Savannah, Georgia, a large consortium in the publishing ﬁeld. As with any transition of ownership, change was inevitable, and Chris handled

top-notch national magazines, and running a successful gift and apparel shop in Christiansted that was put to a stop by Hugo, arrived in the vibrant personality of Susan Wall. In November of 2008, she took on the task, and ever since, St. Croix has experienced the growth of ST. CROIX THIS WEEK beyond all expectations. In spite of less than perfect economic times, in spite of a pandemic, she has steered the magazine’s growth to new heights. This is now much more than a guide for visitors –

the bi-monthly edition that features spectacular monthly covers by local artists is now more than ever a free publication worth picking up from the widespread distribution network throughout the island. It is full of new feature articles, many of them with a focus on St. Croix history that holds interest among a large number of local residents. While having received some supervision Charlotte Atkins by the publishers, represented by Fran Newbold and now Charlotte Atkins, the publication is pretty much a one-woman show, with distribution now capably handled by Liz Covert. It seems appropriate that the half-century celebration be seen as a success story to serve as an inspiration to many, a triumph over Liz Covert adversity. In a sense, that has been the story of St. Croix over the years, for which we can thank the people of this amazing island.

2007

2002 For those of you who remember Marge King, I searched relentlessly for a photo of her for this feature. I am told there is one at the St. Croix Landmarks Library & Archives but now closed because of the pandemic. Her obit in the St. Croix Avis produced copy without photo. I did, however, ﬁnd a photo of her granddaughter on her Facebook page which reminded me instantly of a younger Marge! —S.W. December 20 / Januar y 21 • 59

Eat Right - Nature’s Fix RECHARGE YOUR BODY & SPIRIT!

A BETTER DAY

PEAK PERFORMANCE LAB & COSMIC APOTHECARY Better known as A Better Day, this is a whole foods restaurant company serving up tasty and nutritious meal prep packages, daily lunch specials, cold-pressed juices, full body cleanse protocols, and premium organic herbs and supplements! Locally owned and operated by Dr. Micah McIntosh a proud member of the chiropractic community who has now transitioned to full-time Doctor of Natural and Integrative medicine, spear-heading the vision of a multidimensional approach to recovering the individual and holistic Dr. Micah health and wealth of the US Virgin Islands territory! McIntosh

“Physical, Emotional and Spiritual sovereignty must be restored if we want to take back the health and success of ourselves, our children, our families and everyone we come across in our lives. Right now this out of touch, apart from nature dependency we have on modern living, medicine and commerce is working against us, and the best place to start turning the tide is with our own physical health and the mental and creative energy that comes along with that!” A Better Day was born, to “provide a place for our people to come, to feel better, and better…until they feel their absolute best! When we feel our best we enter a space where we know that everything we desire to be and do is more than possible, it’s inevitable! And so our meals, juices, herbs, consultations and most importantly our service is made to be energizing and inspiring!” Micah’s

Liquid Sunshine A Better Day has an incredibly informative website with a portal for every need. Visiting abetterdayllc.com is akin to walking into a holistic health center where you can make an appointment with the doctor herself to address your pressing health concerns by clicking through to the Health Solutions page; to pick the best detox or meal-prep package to suit your individual needs click through to the detox and meal prep page and pick up your package on Tuesday at noon; if you do not currently have a meal-prep or detox plan but want a tasty and nutritious meal that will fuel the rest of your day, click through to the Menu page to see their specials for the entire week! A Better Day’s website has a shopping cart that allows you to put meal-prep packages, juices, nourishing nut milks, the popular Wellness Wednesday Juice Kit and your lunch specials in your shopping cart to checkout online easily and conveniently accepting all debit with Visa or Mastercard logos, ity un m Im al Re Micah’s major credit cards including American Express and PayPal! You can then pick up your order at 12:30 and continue with your busy day, knowing you have the best whole food ingredients cooked with premium oils and health-conscious condiments that will deliver vibrant health and energy! Gloria Payne Dr.Micah is proud to be working alongside her Roberts mother, Arlette Hodge who serves as Chief Operating Officer and Head Chef of the company! This duo collaborate to ensure the healthy ingredients and specific regimen you need to achieve your health goals are present in every package while having a flavor profile that leaves you happy, satiated and eager to share with your friends, because “we believe you shouldn’t have to compromise on taste and experience in order to be healthy!”Arlette’s background in education, dance and human resources makes her poised for the important operational needs of this big vision company while also being the trusted face for all members, Keep up with A Better Day and their new friends, farmers and patrons! Ms. Gloria expansion into farming and sustainable living. Payne, a core member of A Better Day’s IG @drmicahmcintosh Team brings her Antiguan flavors for @foodforthoughtvillagefarms @abetterdaystx Saltfish and Ducana specials, delicious FB @abetterdaystx | WEB abetterdayllc.com baking, and enthusiasm to the team! We love serving you St.Croix! Arlette D. Hodge

60 • December 20 / Januar y 21

A Better Day Café – 340-244-0333 Nestled in the heart of the Beeston Hill Gym is A Better Day Cafe, the whole-food plantbased restaurant and island’s first full-service meal prep kitchen! Founded to give St. Croix a place to eat clean delicious foods, we are proud to have been serving you for almost 2 years! Known for our home-made bean burgers, gluten-free pates, Smart Lunch Meal Prep specials, hearty soups and detox juice cleanses we are committed to making healthy eating fun, delicious and convenient! We also offer Holistic Health Consultations with our founder, Dr. Micah McIntosh, to personalize your meal plans, supplement recommendations, and combat chronic disease! We have quick pick-up for your nutritious goods and Zoom Video for appts! Call or text us daily for our tasty specials at or abetterdayllc.com/specials. Facebook The Courtyard juices & fitness center 340-773-7728 Right across the street from Government House on King Street, you’ll find the hidden oasis called The Courtyard. Known for its locally-sourced, organic cold press juices, and fresh fruit smoothies, they now offer soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche along with Vegan and gluten- free options! Sip a cup of coffee, relax, and take a peek at our latest ‘artist-of-the-month’ works on display. Most weekends, we offer Art, Yoga, or Wine and Food Workshops; schedule on our Facebook page. Open Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm; give us a call for drive-thru or pick-up service! We’re available for private parties up to 50 people. www.thecoutyardstx.com, Facebook. Cultured Naturals Body Care & Home Scents – 340-626-8232 Get kissed by the Cultured Naturals Body Care Hummingbird! We offer an array of natural Body, Hair, Skin and Home scent products that are made right here in St. Croix with mindful and loving care. Our products are gentle, paraban, sulfate and GMO free! CNBC has married Nature with Science to create products the entire family can use, giving awesome topical and aroma-therapeutic benefits. They are primarilyVegan featuring essential oils, botanicals, and extracts sourced right here in the VI. Check out our new baby line and men’s line. Shop our wonderful products at, Jackie’s

Get Fit - Be Well TREAT YOURSELF!

Beauty Supply, Plaza Extra West, Mt. Welcome Pharmacy, online at www.culturednaturalsbc. etsy.com, or at our store at 55 Company Street, Christiansted. Open Tuesday – Thursday, 10 am – 6 pm, Friday & Saturday, 10 am – 7pm. Closed Sunday & Monday.

Juliett and Gracie Reid-Ventura.

Juju & Cece’s Lemonades & Treats Ramone Reid-Ventura and her daughters, Juliett, 3 and Gracie 2, are taking a fun family activity and creating a business selling the lemonades they have enjoyed making throughout the summer during the COVID pandemic! “It’s a “lemons to lemonade” situation,” said ReidVentura, owner of Cultured Naturals Body Care in Christiansted, specializing in her all-natural skin, hair and body products. Its not a child’s typical lemonade stand but a legitimate, licensed business, with professional labelling and nutritional facts; the drinks are sold at grocery and convenience stores around the island.

Juju & Cece’s Lemonades & Treats – 340-626-8232 Fun loving, bronzed skin and curly haired smart tarts, Juliett and Gracie, are the proud owners of Juju and Cece’s Lemonade and Treats. These energetic island girls enjoy going to the beach, finger painting, nature walks and trying all the fruits the island has to offer. Juju & Cece’s Lemonade’s and Treats are 100 % plantpowered. Fruits are sourced from local farmers, friends or our back yard—Honest and Good. Their parents are teaching them that giving back to their community is important so proceeds from each bottle sold will be donated to Project Promise, a local non-profit that helps at-risk

All Local Fruits

Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm

VeganFarm to bottle Low Sugar (340)626-8232 • jujuandceces@gmail.com

340-773-7728 www.thecourtyardstx.com

Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House

Juju & Cece’s offers five different natural drinks. Hola Carambola, Lymin’ with Pina, traditional Sorrel, Laughing Lemongrass, and Coco Melon fusion. A Super Snack mix is also offered—a low sugar, immune-boosting mix of dehydrated fruits and nuts packed with vitamins and antioxidants, such as gooseberries, cashews, banana chips and elderberries.

For more information 340-626-8232

Powered

juices & fitness center

Half the fruit being used for the drinks are gifts or fruit they are picking themselves, and half they buy from local farmers. “We’re doing it island style— climbing trees, scaling walls and going to market,” she said.

The girls are so excited to offer their lemonade to the community, something healthy and refreshing, not complicated.” As Juliett and Gracie say, “it’s easy peasy, lemon squeezy.”

Pampered VI — 340-773-7728 Tucked away in downtown Christiansted (King Street at the Kalmia Center), we’re a boutique spa offering exceptional, personal services. We aim to create an unforgettable client experience—let us show you what sets us apart! Luscious lashes, flawless skin, relaxing massage? We have you covered. Arrive early to enjoy our facility; beautiful showers and an infrared sauna available. The Center includes The Courtyard for healthy, locally-sourced juices, smoothies, and more! Have your next party with us! Group packages available, or let us come to you with mobile services! Book Online and see a full list of our services! Pamper Yourself! www.pamperedvi.com, Facebook.

100% Plant

It was Juliett who came up with the idea of starting the business. She understands business and, being in Cultured Naturals, she sees and understands transactions,” said Reid-Ventura. “I explained the hard work, but she still wanted to do it. Gracie, too young to understand business, likes tasting the juices! So, we’re taking an everyday activity, turning it into a business as a college fund for the girls, and giving back to the community by donating a portion of the proceeds to local non-profit, Project Promise. Maybe we’ll inspire other children to do the same.

At press time, these were the store locations— The Courtyard 2017.indd Seaside Market & Deli, Plaza Extra East, G-Max Service Station, Rite Way Service Station, Adventures in Diving, Back To Nature, WIR Supermarket, Amigos Service Station, and Gasaway Service Station.

youth. Life is complicated, the world is shifting; take a moment and try one of thease refreshing lemonades or treats made with a modern twist! At grocery and convenience stores around the island. jujuandceces@gmail.com

Facials - Massage - Body Scrubs Eyelash Extensions & More! 1

1/6/17 11:50 AM

Naturals

Body Care Products & Home Scents

Jackie’s Beauty Supply - Plaza Extra West Mt. Welcome Pharmacy - 55 Company Street

340-626-8232

www.culturednaturalsbc.etsy.com

340-773-7728 Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 6 pm

day spa & lash lounge

www.pamperedvi.com Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House December 20 / Januar y 21 • 61

ts ble I. st kes s

E. le.

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www.coldwellbankervi.com and www.stcroixforrent.com

Buying Here Lisa Christensen-Harris – 340-778-7000 x104 Lisa Christensen is a third generation “Cruzan” dating back to when St. Croix was under the Danish Flag. Lisa’s family has served the Virgin Islands in the government, business and public sectors. As a Sales Associate and Real Estate Specialist with Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty I have the privilege of working with some of the most Coldwell Banker St.Croix Realty – 340-778-7000 experienced andtoknowledgeable realtors Are you ready start your search for St.on Croix the look forward showing off hills “my realisland. estate?I From an islandtoretreat in the island” to other local islanders ‘statesidwith Caribbean Sea views, to aor vacation rental ers’ new St. Croix. of the things like along St.toCroix’s sandyOne coastline, to a flatI home to share withbyoff island clients is touring site shaded palm trees, paradise awaitsSt.you Croix from east St. to west you to on picturesque Croixintroducing in the U.S. Virgin the local way St. Croix. “I’ll work Islands! Led of by life Bryon Locher, the professionals with you from a $10St. piece of land toare million at Coldwell Banker Croix Realty eager dollar Cell, 340.227.7899. to helphouse!” you! Our team’s knowledge Email, of St. Croix and our combined 100+ years of real estate www.coldwellbankervi.com

SET THE STAGE FOR ISLAND LIFE!

Coldwell Banker St.Croix Realty – 340-778-7000 With broker Amy Land-deWilde at the helm, the professionals at Coldwell Banker St Croix Realty are eager to help you buy, sell or lease real estate. We offer a host of lovely homes, outstanding building sites, and both historic and commercial properties. Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty also lists an array of rental properties, ideal for your next dream vacation or long-term lease. From a bungalow on the beach to a villa with a view, we have the perfect property for you Because we keep up with the latest technology and market trends, This Week ad 09-14_Layout 1 8/21/14 2:04 PM Page 1

Stay for a Week or Stay Forever

experience make us your perfect partner to REMAX St. Croix yours. – 340-773-1048 make paradise We have a diverse group Joe and Juliesome of Team San Martin the on most of agents, of whom haveare lived St. respected andentire knowledgeable Team Croix their lives, thatREALTOR® are ambassadors on areexperts a long established, forSt.St.Croix. CroixWe and in the localservice-orireal estate ented business, selling St. Croix since 1984and andwww. St market. www.coldwellbankervi.com stcroixforrent.com Croix’s first buyers agents. Clients know that Team

LISA CHRISTENSEN-HARRIS REALTOR ASSOCIATE OFFICE: 340-778-7000 x 104 CELL: 340-227-7899 S T. C R O I X R E A LT Y

lisa@coldwellbankervi.com www.coldwellbankervi.com

Villa Rentals • Homes & Condos for Sale • Homesites

Gallows Bay Marketplace

GALLOWS BAY MARKETPLACE • 340-778-7000 5030 Anchor Way, Suite 12 • 340-718-7000 HOTEL THE BUCCANEER

• coldwellbankervi.com/vacationrentals coldwellbankervi.com RE/MAX St. Croix. Washington Hill, the Great Escape, secluded and for sale!

Team San Martin Outstanding Agents. Teamwork Makes Dreams Work

Outstanding Results. St. Croix’s 1st Buyer’s Agent

Selling St. Croix since 1984

Re/max St. Croix 5 Company St. Christiansted VI 00820

m www.teamsanmartin.com

Phone: 340-773-1048

Photo by Al Dorsa

leasing, vacation and long-term rentals. Our website, www.CalabashRealtors.com, has an extensive list of properties for sale and rent, as well as valuable resources and general information. Accept our invitation to Experience the Difference and know that you will be working with a company that loves St. Croix and puts their clients and customers first.

San Martin is truly connected with the successful Emelyn of Morris-Sayre – RE/MAX St. Croix outcome each real estate transaction, has a -genu303-517-5116 ine concern for your best interests, and is always Emelyn brings over 20 years to RE/ prepared to go the extra mile. experience When we find your MAX property, St. Croix, we having previously ownedthe herOffer dream will walk you through own real estate in so Colorado. is committed to Purchase terms that you’llShe have all the facts to to providing exceptional service to her make a good decision andcustomer use our negotiating skills clients and customers. Many of heracquire clients return that have helped hundreds of buyers their for additional transactions refer theirTeamwork friends dream properties. We live byorour motto: and family knowing they will be treated with makes dreams work! www.teamsnmartin.com

the utmost professionalism. Her client’s needs always come first. She has received the prestigious National Association of REALTORS Omega Tau Rho Award for Outstanding Service and she has earned the Certified Residential Specialist designation. Buying or selling, Emelyn would be honored to assist you. Her office is located on Company Street, Christiansted. Call 303-517-5116 or office, 340-773-1048. www.emsayre.com

Joe & Julie San Martin at RE/MAX St. Croix – or renting in the USVI and BVI. 340-773-1048 Joe and Julie of Team San Martin, are the most ® We know islands. LetREALTOR us help you respected andthese knowledgeable Team on St. Croix; a long-established, servicerealize your Caribbean dream! oriented business, selling St. Croix since 1984 Northfirst Street, Christiansted and St.11Croix’s buyers’ agents. Clients know www.homebuyvi.com 340.719.1409 they care about the successful• outcome of each real estate transaction, have a genuine concern w w and w.stcroix thisweek for their best interests, are prepared to.com go the extra mile. When they find your dream property, they’ll walk you through the Offer to Purchase terms, and use their same negotiat11/6/14 3:13 PM ing skills that have helped 100s of other buyers. Teamwork makes dreams work! www.teamsanmartin.com RE/MAX St. Croix – 340-773-1048 RE/MAX, a name you can trust Globally and Locally for over four decades. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, your success hinges upon the expert advice and services provided by your real estate agent. RE/MAX St. Croix, is a full-service real estate brokerage. Our real estate professionals are committed to provid-

62 • December 20 / Januar y 21

MOVE OR RENOVATE FOR THE NEW YEAR? by Gail Bourdon, Broker-Owner, RE/MAX St. Croix Determining whether you should buy a new home or fix up your current one isn’t easy. In fact, the decision can be steeped in so much drama, they make reality TV shows about it! Call a RE/MAX St. Croix licensed professional to get the facts you need to determine whether to Move or Improve. Also, consider the following: 1. Will a renovation truly fix what you don’t like about your property? If you’re tired of a small kitchen, for example, given the layout of your house, it might not be possible to make it any bigger. On the other hand, if you’re craving a spacious rec room with a cosy fireplace, then a renovation could make that happen. Of course, there are some things you may want that aren’t specific to your house, such as an easier commute or nearby park. Those are features you may only be able to get by moving. 2. How much will a renovation cost? How does that compare to the cost of moving to a new home? It’s important to get accurate estimates of both the cost to renovate, and the cost of a new home, so you can make an informed decision. Renovations often have a habit of costing more than you originally anticipate. Remember, the final result should be a home you want to stay in for quite some time. 3. Beware of compromising versus settling. Whichever decision you make - to renovate or to sell - you can expect to have to make at least some compromises. That’s normal. For example, consider the impact of adding an extension to your house. It would be a major renovation. Is it the ideal way to get the extra room you want? Do the benefits of renovating outweigh the benefits of finding a new larger home that already includes the space you need? It can be a tough decision. If you’re in the midst of making it, contact one of our real estate professionals listed on page 2 of this magazine. RE/MAX St. Croix 340-773-1048 www.remax-stcroix.com info@remax-stcroix.com

Living Here

CHANGE COURSE, MAKE YOUR MOVE! ing our clients with personal service based on experience, knowledge and skills. We are always excited to show off our island’s real estate market, customs, and culture. We have the reputation for putting you, the client, first and placing your needs and goals at the top the list. Thinking Real Estate?... Think RE/MAX St. Croix. View a list of our real estate professionals on Page 2 and connect with us today. info@livingonscroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com Joe Caruso – St. Croix Island Life Real Estate 340-474-0466 What is “Island Life”? Island Life is about enjoying your life. It’s about being comfortable, relaxing, enjoying the sunshine, and being on and in the water. I want to show you what Island Life is about and help you see if St Croix is the right spot for you. My professional success for the last 44 years is the result of listening to clients’ requests and using my knowledge and experience to turn those requests into realities. Listening and communication are my #1 priority, and you’ll find me to be an enthusiastic and fun agent—and an expert on St Croix Island Life!— who can help you find the property you’re looking for. joe@stcroixislandlife.com

RE/MAX St. Croix. Washington Hill, work at home with this view!

www.stcroixislandlife.com 5100 Chenay Bay Christiansted, VI 00820 Joe Caruso | Realtor Cell: 340-474-0466 joe @ stcroixislandlife.com

Our local Realtors are ready to help you find your dream home today!

Experience the Difference

Gallows Bay | 340.778.7000 ColdwellBankerVI.com

Frederiksted | 340.642.3333 December 20 / Januar y 21 • 63

STARS SHOPPING

ST. CROIX Sky Watch

DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021 NORTH

Our clear skies are perfect for star gazing! VIEW THE MAP SO THAT THE NORTH INDICATOR IS FACING NORTH

Constellation names are in upper case. Star and planet names in lower case. The sun, moon, planets and stars all rise in the east and set in the west.

Last Quarter..................7 Dec New Moon................. 14 Dec First Quarter.............. 21 Dec Full Moon................... 29 Dec

WEST

December Moon Phases January Moon Phases

EAST

By: Tom Lesser, formerly Senior Lecturer at the American Museum-Hayden Planetarium and frequent island visitor. Last Quarter....................... 6 Jan New Moon.......................13 Jan First Quarter.....................20 Jan Full Moon..........................28 Jan

Sunrise & Sunset December Sunrise........................................................... 6:44 am December Sunset............................................................5:46 pm January Sunrise............................................................... 6:54 am January Sunset................................................................6:04 pm

SOUTH

Sunrise and sunset times are based on the 15th of each month.

CONSTELLATIONS: UPPER CASE • Stars: Lower Case

DECEMBER Once the sky grows dark, almost directly overhead will be a bright, red, star-like object; this is the planet Mars. Dominating the eastern sky are the seven bright stars of Orion, the Hunter. Two stars form his shoulders (bright red Betelgeuse and Bellatrix), two more his knees (Saiph and the very bright Rigel) and three his belt. Orion is not alone in his celestial hunt. By Orion’s feet are his two hunting dogs. Canis Major the Big Dog is easy to find. Look for the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius, and you have found the Big Dog. Between Sirius and Orion is a somewhat fainter star, this is Procyon and Canis Minor, the Little Dog. Above Procyon in the Little Dog and Betelgeuse in Orion, look for two bright stars nearby each other and of about the same brightness. They almost look like twin stars, and in fact these two stars, Castor and Pollux, mark the heads of the Gemini Twins. December 13th-14th is the maximum of the Geminids Meteor Shower. This meteor shower is considered by many to be the best shower, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. On December 21st the Sun will have reached its southernmost position in the sky and will be directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. This is the first day of Winter (Winter Solstice) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of Summer

64 • December 20 / Januar y 21

(Summer Solstice) in the Southern Hemisphere. Every year at this time people ask astronomers if they know what was the star of stars, the star which lead the Wise Men to Bethlehem at the time of the birth of Jesus? Long ago people thought of everything that they saw in the night sky as a “star”. Thus, the planets, the “fixed” stars, meteors, comets, etc. all were “stars”. So what might have been “The Star”? Meteors or shooting stars happen so quickly that if you see one, by the time you tell your friends to look, the flash will be gone. Certainly a meteor did not send the Wise Men to Bethlehem. Comets were well known, but were considered omens of bad tidings and thus a comet would not send the Wise Men in search of a great king. The fixed stars do not change from year to year, so they would not account for the search. For time to time a star may “explode” as a nova or supernova, and for a short time may even become visible in the daytime. But, our records show no “guest star” at the time of Christ’s birth. The Wise Men followed the motions of the planets as these “wandering stars” moved against the background of fixed stars, for they believed that the motions of these wandering stars could foretell the future. With their knowledge of the motions of the heavens they could calculate that Jupiter and Saturn would pass each other three times and then be joined by Mars. But, what of Herod and his advisors, why

did they not see this “star”? Most of the event would not be visible because it would happen during the day. But, the Wise Men knew that it was happening. They knew that this event would take place in Pisces, the Fish, a star group which for them was symbolic of the Hebrews. Thus some great event would take place in the land of the Hebrews and the Wise Men were off on their search. Was this meeting of the planets really “The Star”? Astronomers do not know; the final decision is yours. JANUARY On January 2, 2021 the Earth will be at its closest distance to the Sun, some 91,399,454 miles. By comparison on July 5, 2021 the Earth will be at its farthest point, some 94,510,886 miles from the Sun. January 2nd-3rd is the maximum of the Quadrantids Meteor Shower which produces up to 40 meteors per hour at its peak. The bright red planet Mars can easily be spotted high in the western sky. East of Mars look for a very bright reddish star, Aldebaran, the red right eye of Taurus, the Bull. Perhaps you can see a sideways “V” shape that forms the Bull’s head. Just above Aldebaran and the V is a cluster of many stars close together, the Pleiades. Between Taurus and Mars is a small zodiacal constellation with no bright stars, Aires, the Ram.

A BETTER DAY COSMIC APOTHECARY

A BETTER DAY ST. CROIX 20 WE HAVE YOUR FUN FAVORITE COMBOS ON THE MENU! Home-made Spicy Black-bean Burger, Chickpea Burger, Lentil Burger, Beyond Burger, Vibrant Green Super Salads, Pate Combos, Vegan Potato Salad, Sweet Potato Fries and much more!

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