VISITOR & LOCAL GUIDE FOR 49 YEARS
JUNE 2020
ST. CROIX THIS WEEK CARIBBEAN
AMERICAN
HERITAGE MONTH
MONA LAWAETZ
REMEMBERS CHRISTIANSTED, PART 2
HAPPY
FATHER’S DAY!
To Do o Go WHERE T HOW T o Find It WHAT
YOUTH ART MONTH
ONLINE STUDENT EXHIBIT
SHALIIAH
SIMMONDS
COVER ARTIST
Attractions Tours/Events Shopping Food & Drink Local Art Watersports Beaches/Golf Getting Around Road Maps Staying Here Buying Here Get Fit/Be Well Sky Watch
The Original St. Croix Hook. fine island jewel ry. often imitated, never du plicated . sonyaltdstore.com sonyaltd@gmail.com @sonya.ltd
1 Company St STE 1 Christiansted, VI
b o a r d wa l k
ne x t to t w i n c i t y coffee
1 (877) 766-9284 fo rt c h r i s t i a n s va e r n
Son ya Ltd
Twin City Cafe Company house
CONTENTS
59
Emancipation.
Kevin Foltz
J U N E / J U LY 2 0 2 0
24TH MANGO MELEE
10
DUTY FREE ALLOWANCE Double the Limit of Other Islands
23
REMEMBERING CHRISTIANSTED Part 2, Mona Lawaetz
32
LEATHERBACK LANDING Cane Bay Beach
35
FARM STAND FRESH
36
ON THE COVERS Shaliiah Simmonds Jah’Sai Rodriquez
37
YOUTH ART MONTH Niarus Walker
39
OUR DANISH CONNECTION The Language Mix That Is Ours
41
MERMAID ADVENTURES Snorkel Quicker & See More
47
CORAL DISEASE IN THE VI Part 1, Nathaniel Hanna Holloway
59
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH VI EMANCIPATION
62
REAL ESTATE & COVID-19 Gail Bourdon, RE/MAX St. Croix
64
THE GARDEN GOES TO CUBA Michael Connors
ON THE COVERS JUNE SHALIIAH SIMMONDS Lew Muckle Elementary School JULY JAH’SAI RODRIQUEZ Ay Ay Academy Homeschool
23
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 FACTS 50 STAYING HERE EASY HOTEL GUIDE 52 GETTING AROUND RENTAL CARS,/TAXIS/FERRY 60 GET FIT/BE WELL 62 BUYING HERE 65 SKYWATCH
25 Wooden Louvres, Church Street.
3
Susan Wall
FEATURES
IN EVERY ISSUE
MAPS 54 56 58
47
. Café d e d Groun
ST CROIX ROAD MAP CHRISTIANSTED MAP Walking Tour FREDERIKSTED MAP Walking Tour
ST. CROIX THIS WEEK Buck Island Reef National Monument.
NPS
Morris Caribbean Publications St. Croix This Week St. Thomas / St. John This Week St. Thomas In A Day Copyright 2020.
PUBLISHER GRAPHIC DESIGNER DISTRIBUTION
IN THE USA
Charlotte Atkins Chelsea Sunshine Liz Covert
MANAGING EDITOR - MEDIA CONSULTANT Susan Wall 340-773-0715 / 340-277-9642 stcroixthisweek@gmail.com e-edition – stcroixthisweek.com June /July 2020 • 1
on St. Croix
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
Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner
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 Jennell Bryan Jennell Bryan Bryan
RE/MAX St. Croix
#5 Company Street, Christiansted, VI 00820 Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
Yvonne Toussaint
340-773-1048 340-773-1048 info@remax-stcroix.com
Timothy
Yvonne Yvonne Toussaint Yvonne Toussaint Toussaint
Robin and Walt
Andre Toussaint Robin andIII Walt Frazier 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 • June /July 2020
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
24th Annual Mango Melee
THE JUICIEST EVENT ON ISLAND
St. George Village Botanical Garden by Amy Parker DeSorbo, Director of Events & Rentals
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,
Celebrating Mangos and raising funds makes Mango Melee one of the biggest fund and friend-raisers for the Garden! Let Kevin Williams, Jr. on his Steel pans lure you in for a fun-filled afternoon with friends and family. Educational Workshops at The Bodine Visitor Center, include one on Permaculture; Mount Victory is presenting along with The St Croix Seashell Society. The Kids Korner will include a bouncy house, balloon sculptures, face painting, Touch-aTruck, with the VI Fire Dept and A Senior Korner, with the VI Dept. of Health, will be offering a variety of tests; Meals on Wheels, and the VI Dept of Human Services Senior Volunteer Dept. will be also be on hand. Don’t miss Mango Dis Mango Dat and Mango Eating competitions (with mangoes donated by Plaza Extra East), and Miss Mango Melee! Sue Lakos runs Dis Mango Dat with 4H volunteers; vote on samples of Sips, Salsas, and Sweets. The 3rd Annual Miss Mango Melee is run by Mary Lewis of African Kraal; Rocki, “Mongoose in The Morning,” is the MC. Crucian Gold donates prizes; Wild Orchid donates flowers. In the Great Hall, Vanessa Forbes showcases beautiful St. Croix Mangos and Tropical Fruits. Take in the display and the silent auction. CCI and CRUZAN RUM donate the alcohol sold at this event; Gentlemen of Jones donates their time bartending. Soft drinks and water are donated by Plaza Extra East, Plaza Extra West, Cost U Less and Coca Cola. Main Stage entertainment last year was The We Deh Yah Cultural Dancers, Gyasi Clarke, Kruzaino, Kurt Schindler, igrade DUB, and Ras Batch. Food and craft vendors and farmers will be selling their wares. Mango Melee depends on volunteers. If you would like to help or be a sponsor, call or email me. At press time, Mango Melee is slated for July 12th but, because of COVID-19, will most likely be rescheduled. St. George Village Botanical Garden
Joseph Boschulte Commissioner USVI Department of Tourism
340-692-2874 - www.sgvbg.org infoatthegarden@gmail.com
June /July 2020 • 3
Events Calendar JUNE/JULY 2020
THURSDAYS, 9:45AM Alexander Hamilton Walking Tour Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (340) 277-4834, www.chantvi.org FRIDAYS, 4-8 PM Karaoke & Famous BBQ CHOP & Grill Restaurant, Sunny Isle (340) 778-2467, chopusvi@gmail.com FRIDAYS, 5:30PM Crab Races Deep End Bar & Restaurant (340) 718-7071, www.newdeepend.com FRIDAYS ALL DAY Pick up TO-GO Art Kits Barbara’s Art Studio at Luncheria, Company Street Kits include paints, 11 x 14 canvas, & instructions, $30. See Facebook, or text (340) 514-9038. Barbara’s Art Studio. Order Art Kits To Go while you wait for classes to resume.
COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Any or all of these events will be modified or cancelled if necessary to comply with any orders or restrictions at the time. Please call, check websites, Facebook, or text prior to events. June 15 is the deadline for event considerations for the AUG/SEPT 2020 issue. Email event info, in the format you see here, to Liz Covert at lizcovert@yahoo.com.
ONGOING MONDAYS, ALL DAY Order TO-GO Art Kits Barbara’s Art Studio, Company Street Kits include paints, 11 x 14 canvas, & instructions $30. See Facebook or text (340) 514-9038. MONDAYS, 5:30PM Crab Races & Steak ‘N’ Ale Night BREW STX, Boardwalk (340) 713-9820
WEDNESDAYS, 9AM Frederiksted Historic Walking Tours Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (340) 277-4834, www.chantvi.org WEDNESDAYS, 5:30-9PM Sushi in the Isle CHOP & Grill Restaurant Ask about Chef and Live Music (340) 778-2467 or (340) 690-5746 THURSDAYS, 5-9PM “Thirsty Thursdays” CHOP & Grill Restaurant King Crab Leg Night. Ask about Live music. (340) 778-2467, chopusvi@gmail.com THURSDAYS, 5:30PM - Close “Seafood Boil” Night BREW STX, Boardwalk Ask about live music! (340) 713-9820
EVERY DAY Takeout, Curbside Pickup, and Delivery. The Mill Boardwalk Bar Brick Oven Pizza, Mon – Fri, 2-8pm, Sat – Sun, 12 – 8pm. Details & menu on Facebook. (340) 643-6455
BY APPOINTMENT Art @ Top Hat Company Street, Christiansted Changing exhibits of works by local Virgin Islands fine artists. TopHat0055@gmail.com (340) 513-3558 Henle Studio Company Street, Christiansted Showcasing painting and prints by Maria Henle, photographs, books and films of St Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle, Tina Henle photographs, and more! (340) 332-1628 Maufe Gallery Strand Street, Christiansted Unique and dynamic artwork and on-site jewelry workshop. (340) 332-4556
TUESDAYS, 5-8PM “Two for Tuesday” Specials BREW STX, Boardwalk Ask about live music! (340) 713-9820
THURSDAYS, 6PM Disco Bingo Deep End Bar & Restaurant Reserve! (340) 718-7071 www.newdeepend.com
Mount Victory Camp Rainforest, North of Frederiksted Rainforest Hikes & Wilderness Skills Workshops. (340) 201-7983 www.MtVictoryCamp.com
3RD TUESDAYS, 6PM Book Discussion Group Undercover Books & Gifts (340) 719-1567 www.undercoverbooksstcroix.com
LAST THURSDAYS, 6PM Seaside Wine Club Seaside Market & Deli, Gallows Bay 4 wine & food pairings, free! (340) 719-9393
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
4 • June /July 2020
Events Calendar SAVE THE DATE!
endangered sea turtles use Buck Island Reef National Monument to nest. YouTube.com Recovery in Focus The Office of Disaster Recovery, the VI Housing Finance Authority, and WTJX-TV Channel 12 has launched a new program with the most upto-date info on the Territory’s progress towards critical Recovery projects. It airs the last Thursday of the month at 8pm, repeating on Saturday at 5pm, and streams on Facebook and the PBS app. www.wtjx.org
Buck Island Reef National Monument.
Kevin Foltz
VIRTUAL Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands Visit the Garden while not leaving home! New videos, featuring Dewey Hollister on a garden topic, every Friday. Go to their YouTube channel, Facebook page or website, www.sgvbg.org. Caribbean Gem: “Buck Island Reef National Monument.” Visit now! Watch this award-winning short film, YouTube.com Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty Virtual Open House, 1pm Saturdays See 20 St. Croix homes. Go to CBVirtualOpenHouse.com to watch! NPS St. Croix Park Shorts: “Day Patrol on Buck Island with Kristen Ewen.” What is a sea turtle day patrol? Kristen Ewen gives us a quick look at the detective work that goes on to understand how
Sky Watch What’s happening in our skies during June and July? Look for the Lion, a Herdsman, the Goddess of the Harvest, the Archer, the Seagoat, and the Waterbearer. Witness Venus rising at dawn and the first day of Summer. And that’s just June! See back inside cover for more info. V.I. Pace Runners Want to try a virtual road race? Check it out! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/vipaceraces St. Croix Hiking Association Find upcoming hike info and where to meet on our website or tell us you want or go hiking! www.stcroixhiking.org (340) 772-2073. Women’s Coalition of St. Croix Virtual Women Race 2020 Join the movement for peace, hope, and justice this June and run your 2-mile race wherever you live! Check our Facebook page, email us at info@ WCSTX.org, or call for details. (340) 773-9272. Proceeds benefit programs & services for people impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and other crimes.
JUNE 2020 CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH! 6 SATURDAY, 9AM – NOON Nursery Sale Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands 20 SATURDAY, 10 AM - 12 NOON Free Public Snorkel Clinic Cramer Park, East End Learn to snorkel or advance your skills with St. Croix Environmental Association. School-aged children to adults welcome. S.E.A. will provide instruction and gear. Register at (340) 773-1989 or info.atsea@gmail.com Crab Races. Mondays, BREW STX and Fridays, Deep End Bar.
Virtual Women Race 2020. Run wherever you live this year!
COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Any or all of these events will be modified or cancelled if necessary to comply with any orders or restrictions at the time. Please call, check websites, Facebook, or text prior to events.
YEARS
of
2020 SCHEDULE POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
GETTING SARA MARRIED A Comedy by Sam Bobrick
DONE TO DEATH
SWEAT
A Play by Fred Carmichael
NOTE:
An Award-Winning Play by Lynn Nottage
Due to COVID-19 and CCT's public pause, new show dates TBA
CCT IS YOU!
CCT is a volunteer-run non-profit group and your support helps keep our doors open. Monetary contributions are always welcome (and tax deductible); or donate items on our wish list, sponsor a show or a Calico Cat student, advertise in our program, or volunteer your time onstage, backstage, or offstage. "Community" is our middle name; CCT cannot exist without YOU!
# 18 Est. Orange Grove Christiansted, St. Croix
Southwest of Golden Rock Shopping Center
For info & updates, go to www.cct.vi eileencct@gmail.com ¥ 340-778-1983 June /July 2020 • 5
Events Calendar TAKE TIME FOR THESE! Fun family event! Mango Eating Contest Mango Dis & Dat, workshops & craft vendors, music! $10. Children under 12 Free. (340) 692-2874, www.sgvbg.org
JULY 10. Fingers crossed for a summer JUMP UP! Susan Wall
21 SUNDAY HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! 30 TUESDAY, 6:30PM “Overcoming Allergies” Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center Allergies, intolerance, and sensitivities: Learn the differences and take your body back! Call or email to reserve your spot. If unable to do in person, view on our Facebook page. Info.stx@paradisechorivi.com, (340) 713-4326.
JULY 2020 3 FRIDAY 172st Anniversary of the Virgin Islands Emancipation Day (July 3, 1848) Observances pending at time of print. 4 SATURDAY Fourth of July Festivities Observances pending at time of print. 6-31 9AM - 3PM C.H.A.N.T. Summer Program Custom House Street, Frederiksted Students age 10-16 investigate Crucian history through artistic mediums. Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism. (340) 277-4834, www.chantvi.org
18 SATURDAY, 10AM - 12 PM Free Public Snorkel Clinic Beach South of Cottages By the Sea Learn to snorkel or advance your skills with St. Croix Environmental Association. School-aged children to adults welcome. S.E.A. will provide instruction and gear. Register at (340) 773-1989 or info.atsea@gmail.com 18 SATURDAY, 1PM 9TH Annual “Strand On Fire” Club Comanche Palm Court Taste all the hot sauces and judge for yourself in Krewe de Croix’s famous hot sauce competition! Registration, 1 pm, $10. General admission, 2pm, $5. Awards, 4:40-5pm. Dee (828) 447-3986 or Val (817) 908-3912 28 TUESDAY, 6:30 PM “Detox & Juicing Done Right” Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center Is your “healthy juice” making things worse? Join us to find out! Call or email to reserve your spot. If unable to do in person, view on our Facebook page. (340) 713-4326 info.stx@paradisechirovi.com COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Any or all of these events will be modified or cancelled if necessary to comply with any orders or restrictions at the time. Please call, check websites, Facebook, or text prior to events.
10 FRIDAY, 6 – 10PM Cultural JUMP UP! Downtown Christiansted Quarterly event sponsored by the Christiansted Restaurant & Retail Association (CRRA). 340-642-6455. Facebook. 12 SUNDAY, NOON - 6PM Mango Melee & Tropical Fruit Festival Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands 6 • June /July 2020
JULY 18. 9th Annual “Strand on Fire.”
The Cast of Ripcord.
Stephanie Schoyer
Theatre in the Time of Quarantine by CCT Board of Directors
“Non-essential” is what theatres have been labeled during this time of pandemic. While celebrating our 35th season at Caribbean Community Theatre (“CCT”) and on the eve of our 5th show, we closed the doors and turned out the lights. By March, we had produced four shows, were in rehearsals for the comedy “Getting Sara Married”, and had held auditions for the play “Done to Death”. Due to social distancing, we were unable to hold scheduled auditions for “Sweat”. Our hope was to stage these plays between March and June. The realization that this pandemic could result in the permanent closure of the longest-running community theatre in the VI has been difficult to accept. Having to close for this extended period of isolation has resulted in financial instability and other challenges for CCT. The stark reality is that we may not be able to remain open without the means to cover our recurring and unavoidable expenses such as utilities and rent. Despite this uncertainty, we’re hopeful because we know that art survives and that our small community has been committed to sustaining performing arts through past challenging times. Your donations help ensure that CCT remains a cultural mainstay in our Crucian community. If a performance has ever made you laugh, cry, or your heart ache or sing, please consider what you can give today. Volunteers are the heart of CCT, and several have been working to make sure the theatre is ready to welcome audiences again. As actor Joel Grey so poignantly said in the New York Times “Our ability to connect with audiences and one another through technology is useful, but I miss the real thing.” Caribbean Community Theater 340-778-1983 - www.cct.vi
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.
Pt. Udall Millennium Monument.
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 – 5 pm. See ad Pg 37.
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
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.
Ted Davis
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.
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. See Christiansted Tour, Pg 57. 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 advance notice. Mahogany Road, Frederiksted. www.llgfarm.com
2020
Open, 9am - 3pm Mon - Sat + Cruise Ship days Museum Store infoatthegarden@gmail.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. June /July 2020 • 7
Attractions & Tours GET LOST WITH A GUIDE!
St. Croix’s National Parks —340-773-1460 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 Historical Park & Ecological Preserve exhibit, 2nd floor, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm. 340-773-1460. Mt. Victory Camp. Come hike with us!
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.
TOURS Look for the issue of a quarter honoring the Salt River Bay National Historic Park. Part of the US Mint’s America the Beautiful Series.
CHANT Crucian, Heritage & Nature Tourism
Historical Walking Tours Nature Hikes & Tours
(340) 277-4834 • www.chantvi.org
8 • June /July 2020
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 – 3 pm, except Christmas. Museum Store. Nursery open First Saturdays, 9am – 2pm. 340-692-2874. Christiansted — “Alexander Hamilton’s Christiansted,” Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (CHANT), Thursdays, 9:45am, minimum 2 guests. 340-277-4834. www.chantvi.org.
Attractions & Tours SEE YOU OUT THERE!
Danish—Christiansted, Frederiksted, Island, Nina York, (English, too). 340-332-4451. Frederiksted — Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (CHANT), 340-277-4834. Horseback — Beach, Rainforest, Ruins. Cruzan Cowgirls, 907-841-1990. 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 — Bar, food menu, tours. Tues – Fri, 11am – 6pm, Sat, 10am – 2pm. Closed Sunday & Monday. 340-227-2366, www. mutinyislandvodka.com, Facebook 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
The Alexander Theater. Sunday Market Square, Christiansted. Stay Tuned for progress from The St. Croix Foundation. For more info, call 340-773-9898. Susan Wall
PLEASE CALL AHEAD.
MANY OF THESE LISTINGS HAVE SHIFTED DAYS & HOURS OF OPERATION WITH THE PANDEMIC.
Whim Plantation, Frederiksted. Carlos ‘Tuna’ Garcia
ONE NORTH Tour Historic Christiansted Townhouse
Featured in Traditional Home & Magazine Antiques
Clock Tower, Frederiksted.
John Connor
Details & Pricing— StxEstateTour.com 24-hour notice required • (340) 514 - 7114 June /July 2020 • 9
Shop Duty-Free! SNEAK IN A FEW SHOPS!
$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. all stacked up.
Nicole Canegata
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
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 EbbesStoreInfo@gmail.com
On the Corner Where King Cross Meets Company 10 • June /July 2020
Undercover Books & Gifts. Spread the wealth, Fair Trade wire bowls, and tumblers. Susan Wall
US Customs & Border Protection www.cbp.gov • (877) 287-8667
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. A Crucian treat, famous Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce. Susan Wall
Asha World Designs. Indian spinning rings.
Eden South – 340-713-1003
Located at historic #3 Company Street, Eden South is an unexpected oasis of divine and authentic Crucian treats. Come in to see our contemporary line of preserves and syrups from old-time recipes, books by local authors, colorful rainforest and recipe t-shirts and sample our famous Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce—also available as a personal-sized bottle for easy carry-on when travelling. Our product line is made only from in-season, locally sourced fruit and is prepared in small batches for consistent quality. We are dedicated to bringing you the best time-honored traditions of St. Croix, conveniently packaged to help you enjoy and express Crucian culture, wherever you may be. www.edensouth.com
E•den South, [eed-n south] n: The Best of St. Croix
Tastes of History Within Your Reach
■ Handcrafted Preserves & Syrups ■ Rainforest-Inspired Tees, All Ages ■ Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm Company Street, Christiansted • 340-713-1003 June /July 2020 • 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
Ebbe’s Store. Fiesty African fabrics, a cultural favorite! Susan Wall
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 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. VI HISTORY
Moses ‘Buddhoe’ Gottlieb Did You Know? Frederiksted is often referred to as “Freedom City” by locals. This nickname has to do with the fact that the town was the site of the emancipation of slaves in the then-Danish West Indies. On
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 • June /July 2020
July 3, 1848, freed slave and skilled craftsman Moses Gottlieb, who also was known as “General Buddhoe,” led the uprising, organized slaves on St. Croix’s West End plantations, and marched on the town of Frederiksted. The emancipation of slaves was proclaimed on July 3, 1848, at Fort Frederik on the waterfront at the northern edge of Frederiksted by GovernorGeneral Peter von Scholten. Buddhoe Statue, Frederiksted. John Connor
Joyia Inspirational Jewelry. Queen Cross Street.
Shop Duty-Free! SHOPPING ON MY MIND!
SUMMER READING BEST SELLERS! Inspired by the true story of a wolf in Rosanne Parry’s A Wolf Called Wander, this tale of survival invites readers to experience and imagine what it would be like to be one of the most misunderstood animals on earth. American Dirt breathes life into the statistics of the thousands fleeing their homelands and seeking to cross the southern border of the United States. In Jeff Kinney’s Wrecking Ball, #14 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, an unexpected inheritance gives Greg’s family a chance to make big changes to their house but finds that home improvement isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Dav Pilkey’s wildly popular Dog Man series appeals to readers of all ages and explores universally positive themes—empathy, kindness, persistence, and the importance of doing good. Most confrontations, viewed from the wide angle of history, are sparks that quickly die out. But every now and then, someone strikes a match that lights up the whole planet in Enemy of All Mankind. Horror master Stephen King is at his finest. If It Bleeds uses the weird and uncanny to riff on mortality, the price of creativity, and the consequences of material attachments. An energizing narrative by Jason Reynolds, Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You, shines a light on the many insidious forms of racist ideas and on ways readers can identify and stamp out racist thoughts in their daily lives. The Book of Longings, proposes an audacious premise: Jesus of Nazareth was married, and his wife was a writer in this woman-centered version of New Testament events. From the British illustrator Charlie Mackesy, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse—a modern fable for all ages that explores life’s universal lessons. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” asked the mole. “Kind,” said the boy. Erik Larson delivers an intimate chronicle of Winston Churchill and London during the Blitz in The Splendid and the Vile. Motivational speaker Glennon Doyle writes of divorcing her husband, finding love with Olympic soccer player Abby Wambach, and coming out to family and fans in the inspirational memoir, Untamed. Undercover Books & Gifts 340-719-1567 – Facebook www.undercoverbooksstcroix.com
Asha World Designs. Baja Jumpsuit. June /July 2020 • 13
Shop Duty-Free! BUY LOCAL!
MUSEUM Undercover Books & Gifts. Fiction, non-fiction, children’s classics, gifts
Susan Wall
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 14 • June /July 2020
STORE
The Shoe Bar. Style and comfort in Naot ‘bestsellers.’
The Museum Store, St. George Botanical Garden Susan Wall
Shop Duty-Free! SHOPPING ON MY MIND!
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 collecrions since 1968.
JOYIA-Inspirational Jewelry – 340-713-4JOY (4569)
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
Small Wonder. Clothes and toys for boys and girls from around the world.
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 for our locally made crafts and collectables, take home a real souvenir made right here on St. Croix. Open Monday – Saturday, 10-6pm.
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
June /July 2020 • 15
Shop Duty-Free! FOUND ON ST. CROIX
RARE
SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry. Sweet Summertime wearing Sonya’s • shop online now, sonyaltdstore.com
STRAND STREET
Crucian Gold- 340-244-2996
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!
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 10am5pm, FB & IG, www.cruciangold.com
FINDS
Antiques, Unique Gifts and Collectibles
Located in the Caravelle Arcade in Christiansted Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5pm
(340) 713-3113 www.sublimestx.com
16 • June /July 2020
Open Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat. 10 am - 4 pm At the Gateway to Gallows Bay
340-713-9254
Rare Finds. Quirks, Oddities, Beauties. Susan Wall
Shop Duty-Free! OWN IT, MAKE IT YOURS!
Document1
Sweet Lime Furnishings. Peace & Serenity.
1/26/07
10:18 AM
RJS Handmade Designs. Uniquely created; make it your own.
RJS Handmade Designs – 340-642-3291
Expect the best from Silversmith, Rosa Asencio! For over 16 years, her unique, handmade 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 is still the best method for capturing exquisite detail in metal objects rewarding the artisan with an object of great individuality. Visit the store to see the complete collections of earrings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets, inspired by the island’s beauty and culture. “Something is bound to catch your eye!” New, expanded store on Strand Street, Christiansted. www.rjshandmadedesigns.com; Facebook.
J&H Clothing. Classy Lacoste Polos, in stock now!
Rosa Asencio Silversmith
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 yearround holiday & event costumes. Layaway &
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
, Polos coste re Tees a L ew Cultu ck! N In Sto apbacks S ’ n N S ! E s sM color - Tee many s - Jeans s - Tops gear Tank - Dresse & Gym eters Rest EN’S - Swim t. 70, P -5pm WOMs - Jeans ana Mall R urs 10amm p h p k T -6 Tan rs at Wata Tues- at 10am 861 i Fri-S 244 - 9 Upsta ) (340
1110 Strand Street, Christiansted
340-773-5551
340-642-3291 N ST EW
StranORE! d Stre et
HANDMADE DESIGNS
Strand StreetArcade #5 Strand Street, Caravelle
www.rjshandmadedesigns.com June /July 2020 • 17
Page
Shop Duty-Free! SHOP TIME, TAKE TIME!
Christa’s Art Gallery
Quadrille Dancers Canvas Tote.
Sublime STX. Buffs! 25% off until COVID-19 passes. Cover up and look good doing it!
STRAND STREET...cont. Baby Shower Registry available. Located just steps from the Government Parking lot at 1110 Strand Street.
Sublime STX Sun-Protective Clothing – 340-713-3113 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, locally-crafted 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. www. sublimestx.com, Facebook. Mention this ad for 15% off!
18 • June /July 2020
Find sugarmills, culture art, old Caribbean houses, local scenes of the ‘old days,’ flowers, mocko jumbies, Quadrille dancers, African images, portraits, and abstracts done in watercolor, oil, acrylic, and ink pen at Christa’s Art Gallery in Christiansted. Lots of these images are incorporated into colorful, whimsical products to wear, for the home, or to give as gifts. Christa-Ann Molloy was born in Trinidad, West Indies but has lived on St. Croix for the past 29 years. She began to be interested in art and design by age 11 liking simply to sketch in pencil. Her artistic parents encouraged her to pursue her love of art. Her early influences were the works of Knolly Greenidge, Marcia Jameson, Elroy Simmonds, Martin Superville, Paul Goodnight, Mary Whyte, Karen Sylvester and Betsy Campen. Even though she was able to get mentor training with Marcia and Betsy, “there are moments when you have to self-teach and experiment. I love to problem solve and, with each new piece, strive to upgrade my technologies,” she says. And upgrade she has with her delightful studio on Company Street filled with bright colors, positive energy, and creative products for all. Check her facebook page for a number of classes that she offers and sign up!
Christa’s Art Gallery 340-513-8581 www.christaart.com
Shop Duty-Free! OWN IT, MAKE IT YOURS!
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se Oseguera, Monica Minot, ew Morrison, talie Corthesy, es-Bennett, narine Persaud, Kenzie,
Willie, ndell Semple, Tillmann, e, an, Kerlyne Hilair e ghan, Laurel Eberl
by Elisa McKay
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$25.99 740
BN 9780986079
COVER ART: Early
by Ryhaan Shah, L. Brown, narine, Tammy Ross, n-Agostini, Jacob toni, nnis
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Volume 34 • 2020
Volume
34
Placece wer andSpa Dignityin, Po the Caribbean
The Caribbean Writer, Vol 34 Dignity, Power and Place In the Caribbean Space
T
COVER ART— “Early for Sunday Service” by Elisa McKay
he Caribbean Writer is an international, refereed, literary journal with a Caribbean focus, founded in 1986 and published annually by the University of the Virgin Islands. The mission is to publish quality writing by established writers that reflects the culture of the Caribbean; promotes and fosters a strong literary tradition; and serves as an institute for the development of emerging writers. Here are some new and exciting voices from the region in this next volume: POETRY: John Robert Lee, Nancy Anne Miller, Jose Oseguera, Keisha-Gaye Anderson, Yates Young, Winsome Monica Minot, Rohan Facey, Erica Mapp, Gerry LaFemina, Andrew Morrison, Randy Baker, Lewis R. Gordon, Kelsi Folsom, Natalie Corthesy, Thomas Reiter, Britney Gabbidon, Nicole GeorgesBennett, Tomas Sanchez Hidalgo, Amilcar Sanatan, Sasenarine Persaud, Kourtnie Rodney-Brown, Sylene Joseph, Ale McKenzie, Melanie M. Mohammed SHORT FICTION: Patricia McDonald, Malica Willie, Sara Lynn Burnett, Dorian Xanyn, Berkley Wendell Semple, Elena Botts, Winston (Bobby) Nugent, Ildiko Tillmann, Kirk Budhooram, Cyril Dabydeen, Portia Subran, Kerlyne Hilaire, Arti Deonarine, Aprille L. Thomas, Nena Callaghan, Laurel Eberle ESSAYS: Corrine Binnings, Blake C. Scot REVIEWS of BOOKS WRITTEN or EDITED by: Ryhaan Shah, Ameena Gafoor, Juliette Storr, Lomarsh Roopnarine, Tammy L. Brown, Keith E. Benjamin, Clement White, Lisa Allen-Agostini, Jacob Ross, Esther Phillips, Earl Lovelace and Robert Antoni, Debbie A. Mohammed and Nikolaos Karagiannis.
Pre-order at www.thecaribbeanwriter.org
Tropical Bracelet. Just like real waves, silver with inlaid blue Opal.
Susan Wall
Shop Duty-Free! MUST-HAVES!
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.
Plaza Extra East – 340-778-6240
Crucian Gold. We’ve got you covered with handmade bracelets, bangles and cuffs!
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. 713-9254.
Undercover Books – 340-719-1567
Undercover Books & Gifts
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
AROUND THE ISLAND Gallows Bay, St. Croix
Phone: 719-1567 Phone: 340-719-1567 20 • June /July 2020
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
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 destination 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 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.
June /July 2020 • 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
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Baci Duty Free Christa’s Art Gallery
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Crucian Gold Cultured Naturals Body Care Ebbe’s Store Eden South
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Plaza Extra West
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RJS Handmade Designs
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Seaside Market & Deli
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Small Wonder
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Sonya, Ltd. Sublime STX
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The Shoe Bar Tropical Bracelet Factory
22 • June /July 2020
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Plaza Extra East
Undercover Books
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Joyia Inspirational Jewelry
The Museum Store
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J&H Clothing
Sweet Lime Furnishings
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ib designs
Rare Finds
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Protestant Cay
Church Street
TRACING HISTORY
battened down. It seems everyone went to church in those days). The old Customs Building housed the only Christiansted Post Office with individual mail boxes. Mr. Wilbert Armstrong was a consistently pleasant Postmaster assisted by Messrs. Harry Thompson and Pillot. Everyone was friendly and cordial and greeted each other. Wilhelm Samuel had the largest half-moon smile of all. The astute gentleman, Mr. Tyne, always tipped his hat whenever he greeted anyone with the traditional “Good Morning or Good Afternoon.”
Steeple Building
Everyone who had to drive into town could find a place to park even by the wharf. The best reason was to shop at the Johannes and Clemmie Rasmussen gourmet Super Market on Church Street. It was the first one with shopping carts and exotic imported foods, many from Denmark. (They even had chocolate covered ladybugs in fancy tins). They also had the beautiful Copenhagen, Ltd. Store next door with one-of-a-kind imported Danish jewelry, gifts, and collectibles.
REMINISCING ABOUT CHRISTIANSTED 60 YEARS AGO
Part 2 in a series, Waterfront, Church Street, Hospital Street by Mona Lawaetz
“
The stunning waterfront was busy with graceful island sloops, fishing boats, and working schooners. My uncle, Jack Burgess, ran the Yacht Club which commanded a perfect view of the pristine harbor. Captain MacGregor was the Harbormaster above the Scale House. The Pentheny shipping and boat repair yard were located on the wharf. There was a much smaller Protestant Cay then (where we loved to swim over to after school). As children we were amazed at the skill of captains such as Bomba and Teytaud, not to mention the graceful Mrs. Lloyd (of Island Dairies/Golden Cow) on the magnificent MV “Bounty.”
The dominant, timeless Danish West Indian buildings on the wharf were the same as today, thanks to preservation by the NPS. The fort was Danish red. The elegant Library building was a regular stop after school, as well as the St. Croix Museum downstairs. It housed a magnificent exhibition of Carib and Arawak Indian artifacts, many from the Folmer Anderson (intact) collection. Some of the relics of St. Croix’s first natives were found by my father and Harry Mackay who donated them to the Museum for the enjoyment by all. (Mr. Mackay once owned Salt River aka Sugar Bay). The Steeple Building was curated proudly by Ms. Val Jacobs. The steeple clock always worked and kept the town running better than Cruzan time. (On Sundays, time stood still. All the stores were
Up a few stairs on the corner was the important cable/telegram office operated by Messrs Walcott and Lynch. Ms. Hermione sat on the gallery wearing a smile and a large straw hat. The tray on her sizeable lap was filled with delicious homemade tarts, don deslaw (sp?) and pink coconut sugar cakes. Also on Church Street was the Corner Store, above which old Ms. Maud monitored the conduct of school children from her window and had us mail her letters. Further up still, Messrs. Hookensan and Toby Schoyer (cross-eyed Paulie was his side-kick) had a land surveying/architectural business; my parents had Lawaetz Land Development next to Bruce and Mary Millar’s real estate office. Mr. DeWitt Rogers had a photography business. Up the hill were the popular Moore Apartments and the lovely Coff House. Across from their properties, Ms. Petersen had the most beautiful potted garden of roses in front of her home. She grew them in large, square Saltine tins raised on blocks. Across from Christiansvaern Fort and going East on Hospital Street, on the corner was Rosedales, a sweet shop school kids frequented before Captain Weeks popular restaurant. The legendary skilled Thurland brothers created and repaired treasured mahogany furniture in their three-story building going down to the sea. (We preserved our family heirlooms as there were no furniture stores to buy anything new until the Copenhagen Furniture Store opened near Bassin Triangle. That was not too far from where Ms Schulterbrandt gave tap dancing lessons.) Dr. Aubrey Anduze cheerfully performed all dental work necessary from his office; just a block away there was the Anduze Barber Shop. Going beyond the Police Station on Hospital Street, was the Outrigger Restaurant, formerly Pop Hansen’s. If you could walk past someone’s caged parrot squawking “bad words,” you would reach the homes of the Bollings, Pillots, Larsens and, in later years, the vocal champion of Gallows Bay, Ms. Jessica Tutein. The late-night gatherings at Alphonso and the effervescent Gloria Paraliticci of El Patio Garden were the best fiestas of the year, guaranteed. WIVI radio station anchored the Altoona Lagoon point at Fort Louise Augusta where the reassuring voice of “Mango Jones,” Doc James and others entertained us before the days of much television. Part 3, Aug/Sept issue, out July 28/29 Strand Street & Company Street
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Photos by Susan Wall
June /July 2020 • 23
OUT OPEN FOR TAKE- P CURBSIDE PICK-U DELIVERY SPACED SEATING
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED
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 secret... until now. Company Street in Apothecary Hall. Menu posted daily on Instagram and Facebook.
Breakers Roar Tiki Bar – 340-773-6330 Breakers Roar opens in November on the waterfront next to the King Christian Hotel! The bar, specializing in Pan-Asian/West Indian flavors, sports an old world nautical theme with sailing ships, sea creatures, and underwater memorabilia. You can expect a full menu of amazing handcrafted, tropical cocktails like The Big Fundamental, Drinking Like a Fish, Mai Tai, Pina Colada, Moko Jumbie, or 3 Dots & a Dash! made with fresh-squeezed juices and more! Choose from Tiki Classics, Tiki Gold Standards, and Breakers Roar Originals. Come on over and indulge in our wide selection of spirits including 50 different types of rum! Happy Hour. Follow our IG page for updates
5 9 K I N G S T R E E T , C H R I S T I A N S T E D | www.breakersroar.com
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.
Breakers Roar Tiki Bar. Pu Pu Platter.
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,
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) 773-6330 4PM - MIDNIGHT M - S
24 • June /July 2020
340-719-6339 340-719-6339
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 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. 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 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 ahead! All three locations open at 7am. www.groundedcafevi.com, IG, FB, T.
Shupe’s on the Boardwalk. Veggie Quesadilla/Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED
service from noon - 10pm; drinks ‘til close. www.nautibargrille.com, 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. Grounded Café. Fair Trade beans; fresh blends.
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. Nates Boathouse & Seafood Emporium – 340-692-6283 Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch on our boardwalk patio or in our breezy open-air restaurant overlooking the beautiful Christiansted Harbor. Sit back and watch the local fishing boats deliver their daily catch of Wahoo, Tuna, or Mahi-Mahi—we specialize in the fresh seafood that is brought to our dock every day. Creative dinner options incorporate an eclectic blend of world cuisines along with a unique and affordable wine list, and drink specials from the most complete bar on the island. Open 7 days a week, ½ Price Happy Hour, 4–6 pm daily. www.angrynates-stx.com, angrynatesstx@gmail.com, Facebook. Nauti Bar & Grille – 340-718-0544 Home of real Texas BBQ, Fresh Seafood & Oysters, Cold Beers & Beverages. Daily News Readers’ Poll—“Coldest Beer Bar Restaurant, 2018/19! A 2019 Taste of St. Croix 1st Place winner for entrée! Serving up “smoked fresh” USDA Choice beef brisket, ribs, sausage, chicken, “fresh catch” seafood & specials. Family-friendly, great staff, fun games, dancing on the patio. Happy Hour, 5 – 7pm Mon, Football & Steak, 6pm - Tues, Karoake, 7pm - Wed, Open Mic, 7 – 10pm - Thurs, Fri, Sat, Live Music, 8pm - Sun, Tailgate Party, grilled burgers & dogs, 2 – 7pm. Hospital Street just East of Christiansted, look for the BBQ sign and head to the waterfront. Open 7 days, food
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
FRESHLY BREWED FAIR TRADE “ROOTS JAVA” RWANDA COFFEE
+
Oganic & Fresh Signature Sandwiches Specialty Drinks • Salads • Soups Fresh-baked Novelties • Desserts
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
1 3
Strand Street, Christiansted 340-626-9993 M–SAT 7am–7pm
2
VIYA Building, Estate Diamond 340-626-6799 M-F 7am–5pm • SAT 7am–4pm
juices & fitness center
Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm
340-773-7728 www.thecourtyardstx.com
Sunny Isle Food Court, Mid-Island 340-626-6339 M–F 7am–7pm • SAT 7am–5pm All locations closed Sundays
ONLINE MENU ORDER AHEAD Use our Grounded Café App on your smartphone!
www.groundedcafevi.com
Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House June /July 2020 • 25
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED / GALLOWS BAY
CHRISTIANSTED cont... Available. Open for Lunch and Dinner. Sunday Brunch coming soon. Facebook.
Only steps from the Boardwalk with a bite for everyone. Local cuisine, Pizza, Wings, and our Famous Beetchz Shrimp. Home of the Crucian Conclusion!
Singh’s Fast Food Restaurant – 340-773-7357 Singh’s—an island tradition serving flavorful Carib, Indian, and Latin dishes for 44 years! Roti is the favorite—Chicken, Beef, Goat, Shrimp, Conch, Tofu, and Potato. Doubles available. Serving up generous plates of Curry Chicken and Goat, Conch, Beef, Shrimp, Pork, Oxtail, King Fish, and Lasagna. Great Side Orders and Finger Food. TA reviews say, “Absolutely amazing!!! Incredible flavors, fresh food, authentic, a must try!” “Very good local food and the quality is tops. We stop here when we come from Denmark.” David Mohan-Singh, born in Trinidad, founded this infamous restaurant, along with his wife, in 1975. Still in the family, Dinorah and Ram Singh run it today. Open Mon – Sat, 8am – 9pm. Eat in or Grab & Go. 23 King Street up from Sunday Market Square. FB
Nates Boathouse. Crab legs!
GALLOWS BAY
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 cui- sine—something for every-
340-718-0544
Open for Lunch and Dinner Sunday Brunch Coming Soon! Follow us on Facebook for hours and upcoming events
Open weClose. close. Open77days daysaaweek weekat--noon Openuntil Till We BehindBryan’s Bryan’s Marine Marine on the water. Behind water.
One Kitchen Many Flavors
Since 1975
Located in King’s Alley
(340) 713-8899
Takeout & Catering Available 26 • June /July 2020
urant a t s e R d o Fast Fo I NOR AH SI NGHt
&D ake Ou DI LI P at In | T quare E • m - 9p rket S Sat 8am ar Sunday Ma Mon e n t e Stre 23 King
(340) 773-7357
Food & Drink GALLOWS BAY / FREDERIKSTED
one—meat lovers to vegan. Burritos and Tacos, madeto-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, readymade foods 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
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.
Salty Beetchz. Meet the staff at this open-air eclectic spot just off the boardwalk.
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
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 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!
Maria’s Cantina. Tacos De Cochinita Pibil. June /July 2020 • 27
Food & Drink FREDERIKSTED / EAST END
Restaurant & Catering St. Croix’s East End, Gorgeous Buck Island View! Photo, Susan Wall
FREDERIKSTED cont...
EAST END
Eat With Fred – 340-777-Fred (3733)
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 nightly for dinner, 5 – 9pm, Sunday Brunch, 10am – 3pm. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Call ahead for reservations, catering parties, or to have your food ready for pick up! www.bluewaterterrace.com, Facebook.
“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!
SEE YOU SOON, PAULI, LORI, TAYLOR, & JEDI
New Comfortable 6’ DistanceSafe Seating on Our Terrace. New Full Menu To Go if You Prefer.
Cheeseburgers in Paradise – 340-718-1118 For the best in local and off-island entertainment, check out this schedule. We have the legendary Llewellyn singing songs of the Caribbean on Saturday nights and Brian Wilson on Sunday. Two Fridays a month, we feature one of Chicken Charlie’s amazing bands from the states. Come out and
Call Ahead for All Dine-In & To-Go Reservations. Closed Wednesdays.
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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.
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The Fred. Coconut Chicken Curry Wrap To Go.
Restaurant: Hand-cut Steaks & Fresh Local Seafood, Lori’s Famous Fried Chicken, Crab-Stuffed Wahoo, Apple BBQ Ribs, Rack of Lamb, Fresh Lobster Dishes & our Homemade Stone-Baked Pizza! Housemade Desserts from scratch and Ice Creams! Catering: LET US CATER FOR YOU! Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family!
340-692-BLUE (2583) www.bluewaterterracevi.com 28 • June /July 2020
Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch
fine seafood 340-719-2663
and Spectacular Sunsets Reservations at 340-772-1266
Food & Drink EAST END / NORTHSHORE
dance to your favorite 60s rock-n-roll and feast on fresh local lobster, great steaks and other specials. “There’s nothing like a hamburger at Cheeseburger’s (overheard recently), the East End Headquarters for food, fun, and frolic!” Facebook. 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 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. 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.
Duggan’s Reef. A St. Croix East End tradition. Ted Davis
Cibone. Sushi—Lobster, Shrimp Salmon.
NORTH SHORE
What’s In A Drink?
AMA Cane Bay – 340-227- 3432 Located in a dramatic setting on St. Croix’s Northshore is AMA Cane Bay and award-winning Digby Stridiron is your Chef! “AMA,” he says, “is the indigenous Taino word for the ocean/body of water and definitely reflects our cuisine and location!” A waterfront, fine dining restaurant offering a relaxing ambiance, amazing views, and stunning sunsets! AMA Cane Bay utilizes sustainably-sourced local ingredients to prepare their entrees, a fusion of Caribbean and American cuisine. Come join us when you feel like dining with the sounds of the waves or unwinding at the top deck bar. Open for dinner and drinks, Tuesday - Saturday, 5 – 9 pm and Sunday Brunch, 10 am – 2 pm. www.amacanebay.com, Facebook, Instagram 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 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!
Breaker’s Roar Tiki Bar. Try a Gold Standard! June /July 2020 • 29
Food & Drink NORTHSHORE
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Cast Iron Pot. Conch in butter sauce.
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st. croix • USVI • 340.718.1118
Open 365 Days
Dine Undercover, Poolside, or on the Beach! 718-7071 30 • June /July 2020
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
Private Parties • Conference Room Daily Specials • Top Class Catering Tues & Wed 11 am - 5 pm Thurs - Sat 11 am - 9 pm
LOCAL LOBSTERS
Every Style – Every Day 10A La Grande Princesse
AMA Cane Bay. Watermelon Mojito.
Food & Drink NORTHSHORE / MID-ISLAND 340.778.CHOP (2467) Savor local, continental and comfort foods in cool AC—breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily! We’re family friendly, locally-owned and home of Smithy’s famous King Crab Legs and Local Lobster (Thurs 5:30 - 10pm). Located mid-island with parking in the Sunny Isle Shopping Center, we offer free wifi, free meeting space (with food order) and can cater your special event, office breakfast or lunch. Crucian Hospitality is Our Promise (CHOP) so stop in and let us show you some love! Our beautiful 20-foot bar has all your favorites plus locally made wine, beer and liquor. Newly renovated, CHOP is available for event space rental any day of the week. Closed Monday & Tuesday. Open Sun & Wed 8am -5pm, Thurs & Fri 8am - 10pm, Sat 8am – 12am. El Flamboyant. “For the best Latin food on island,” Ibon, Klary, Betsy, Jossie. Susan Wall
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 – 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
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,
AMA Cane Bay. Amanda’s Lemon Point Cake.
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.
Self-serve breakfast Whole-food, plant-based lunch Meal Prep & Catering
UP S
TA I R S AT T H E LG H IL
B E ESTON
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Cold-pressed juices Smoothies
Detox protocols Mon, Tues, Thurs 9am- 2pm & 4pm - 8pm Supplements Wed, Fri 9am-6pm
(340) 778 - 8888 www.abetterdayllc.com
A Better Day Café, Juice & Whole Foods Bar – 340-778-8888 Nestled in the heart of the Beeston Hill Health & Wellness is A Better Day, the whole-food, plant-based restaurant and the island’s first full-service meal prep kitchen! Founded to give St. Croix a place to eat clean delicious foods while hosting collaborations among our talented and health conscious community, we are proud to have been serving you for the past year. Known for our home-made bean burgers, gluten-free pate’s, 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 and supplement recommendations. Call us daily for our tasty specials! CHOP & Grill Restaurant – June /July 2020 • 31
Food & Drink NORTHSHORE / MID-ISLAND
LEATHERBACK LANDING
CANE BAY
F
rom Leatherback Brewing partners, Win Welsh and John Giannopoulos, comes an exciting new venture with a focus on promoting exceptional local beer while embracing and celebrating the community. The space formerly known as Eat @ Cane Bay will now boast a rotating selection of fresh Leatherback Brewing beers on tap and in cans along with classic island cocktails. The menu will still feature many of the favorites, such as the famous ½ Pound Burger, but Leatherback Landing is also proud to partner with more local farmers, bakers, and fisherman to promote and showcase quality ingredients produced all over St. Croix. With that comes the chance to expand the vegetarian and vegan options as well. The one thing all of the menu options have in common is that they pair perfectly with the world-renowned views of Cane Bay. Nestled between the rental cottages of Play @ Cane Bay and Sweet Bottom Dive Shop, Leatherback Landing is the perfect day-trip destination where you can bring the whole family. The restaurant’s unique location offers plenty of parking, and reservations and large parties are welcome.
CHOP Bar & Grill. Lunch Express Cheeseburger.
BREAKFAST, LUNCH, & DINNER ALL DAY!
BREAKFAST, LUNCH, & DINNER ALL DAY! MEET SMITHY @ THE BAR! MEET SMITHY @ THE BAR! Traditional Crucian Breakfast on Sundays! Traditional Crucian Breakfast Daily! Traditional Crucian Breakfast on Sundays!
KIDS EAT FREE, FRIDAYS, 4-8 PM KIDS EAT8am FREE, 4-8 PM Sun & Wed, - 5pm Fri,open 8am - 10pm Mon–Thurs, 8 am–5 pm•FRIDAYS, •Thurs Thurs,&Bar till 9 pm
Mon–Thurs, 8 am–5 pm• •Closed Thurs,• Sun, Bar open till pm Sat, 8am -–12am Mon Tues Fri & Sat, 8 am 12 midnight 8&am – 99 pm Fri & Sat, 8 am – 12 midnight • Sun, 8 am – 9 pm Sunny Isle Shopping Center near First Bank Sunny Isle Shopping Center near First Bank
340-778-CHOP (2467) 340-778-CHOP (2467)
Scrumptious beachside options! Beach chair rentals are available for those looking to enjoy a drink with their toes in the sand. Grab a fresh, cold brew and take in the natural beauty of the island. You may even catch a glimpse of some playful sea creatures. Snag a seat at the bar and watch the sun set while you relax during daily Happy Hour that runs from 4pm - 6pm. Catch different local musicians almost every day, including during Sunday Brunch which runs from 10am - 6pm every week. Leatherback Landing is excited to be part of the growing North Shore scene. Craft beer, local food, and delicious cocktails are a great complement to the lively events, fire shows, and, of course, the beautiful beach that makes North Shore the spot to go on the island.
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 32 • June /July 2020
340-779-3285
Leatherback Landing @ Cane Bay 340-718-0362 - Facebook Flamboyant.
Ted Davis
Food & Drink NORTH SHORE / MID-ISLAND
A Better Day Café. Healty, tasty Meal Prep to go!
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
#14 Plessen • Frederiksted, VI 00840-4621 Leatherback Landing. Exceptional local beers/classic island cocktails.
340-719-1870 • plazaextrawest.com
SUPERSTORE
Gift Card
June /July 2020 • 33
Food & Drink TELL ME WHERE TO EAT!
Easy Dining Guide Restaurant
Take Local area Out code is (340)
A Better Day at Beeston Hill
X
AMA Cane Bay
OPEN FOR TAKEOU CURBSIDE PICK-U T P DELIVERY SPACED SEATING
Cuisine
Meals
778-8888
Vegan/Caribbean/Meal Prep/Detox
B, L, D
MC, V
Yes
Mid-Island
X
227-3432
Local, Gourmet, Cocktails, Waterfront
BR, D
AE, MC, V
Yes
Northshore
Beach Side Café
X
772-1266
American / Local / Seafood / Waterfront
L, D, BR
AE, MC, V
Yes
Frederiksted
Blue Water Terrace
X
692-2583
Restaurant / Market / Deli
D, BR
MC, V
Yes
East End
BREW STX
X
719-6339
Sandwiches / Smoked Wings / BYO Salads
L, D
MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
Breakers Roar Tiki Bar
X
773-6330
Craft Cocktails, Waterfront
AE, D, MC, V
No
Christiansted
Café Christine’s / ART GALLERY
X
713-1500
Fresh / Healthy / Café-style
L
None
Yes
Christiansted
Cast Iron Pot
X
692-2477
Local / Seafood / Grill
L, D
MC, V
Yes
Northside
Cheeseburgers in America’s Paradise
X
718-1118
Continental
L, D, BR
MC, V
No
East End
CHOP & Grill Restaurant
X
778-2467
Local / Continental / Comfort
B, L, D
MC, V
No
Mid Island
Ciboné
X
719-2663
Farm & Sea-to-Table
D, BR
MC, V
Yes
Frederiksted
Deep End Bar & Grill at Tamarind Reef Resort
X
718-7071
Casual, Beachside Dining
B, L, D, BR
MC, V
Yes
East End
Duggan’s Reef
X
773-9800
Seafood / Steakhouse
D, BR
MC, V
Yes
East End
El Flamboyant
X
779-3285
Latin / Seafood / Caribbean
L, D, BR
None
No
Mid Island
Grounded Cafe
X
626-9993
Fair Trade Coffee / Casual Hand-crafted Meals
B, L, D
AE, MC, V
No
Csted/Sunny Isle
La Reine Chicken Shack
X
778-5717
Open Pit BBQ / Seafood
B, L, D
ATM
No
Mid Island
Leatherback Landing @ Cane Bay
X
718-0369
Grill / Seafood / Caribbean / Waterfront
B, L, D
MC, V, D
No
Northshore
Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar
X
713-0222
Authentic Mexican
L, D
AE, MC, V
No
Gallows Bay
Nate’s Boathouse & Seafood Emporium
X
692-6283
Seafood / World Cuisine
B, L, D, BR
D, MC, V
Yes
Christiansted
Nauti Bar & Grille
X
718-0544
Smoked Meats & Chicken / Fresh Seafood
L, D
AE, MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
Salty Beetchz
X
719-8899
Local/Pizza/Wings/Cocktails
L, D, BR
AE, D ,MC, V, Debit
No
Christiansted
Seaside Market & Deli
X
719-9393
Gourmet /Salad Bar/ Prime Meats
B, L, D
AE, D, MC, V
No
Gallows Bay
Singh’s Fast Food
X
773-7357
Caribbean/Indian/Latin Mix
B, L, D
Debit, MC, V
No
Christiansted
Shupe’s on the Boardwalk
X
773-3400
Burgers / Wings / Ice Cream
L, D
MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center
X
773-7728
Juices / Smoothies / Healthy Food
B, L
D, MC, V
No
Christiansted
The Palms at Pelican Cove
X
718-8920
American/Caribbean/Beachfront
B,L,D,BR
MC, V, D
Yes 6+
Northside
34 • June /July 2020
Credit Cards Res.
Location
Food & Drink MID-ISLAND
FARM STAND FRESH! CALL AHEAD OR CHECK ONLINE FOR CHANGES IN SCHEDULES. ARTfarm, LLC – 340-514-4873 Produce distributed through farm shares. Check Facebook and www.artfarmllc.com for how to participate. 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
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 mingle 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 midisland 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
La Reine Chicken Shack. Cedric Angeles, Coastal Living
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.
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. 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
The Palms at Pelican Cove. Blackened Wahoo.
Open-Pit BBQ Chicken Roast Pork Ribs • Steak Local Seafood
Catering for All Occasions!
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 Special Events/Functions
www.palmspelicancove.com EAT
La Reine Farmer’s Market. Local bananas. Susan Wall
DRINK
BEACH
340-718-8920 ONLY AT THE PALMS 340-718-8920
Newly Renovated with Full Bar
Try our “Cruzan Confusion!”
Open 7 Days a Week! Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Rt. 75 off Centerline Road
Eat In or Take Out • 340-778-5717 June /July 2020 • 35
On the Covers
KEEP YOUR DAYS FILLED WITH ART!
JUNE
Shaliiah Simmonds
Live Earth Art.
Jah’Sai Rodriquez
Jelly Fish.
JULY
Sugarmill.
Zentangle.
S
haliiah’s favorite subject, as a 3rd grade honor student at Lew Muckle Elementary School, is art! Hardest for her are math and science, she says. “Art is pretty easy.” I love to paint butterflies, like the one on the June cover, but “you have to take your time. I love how they start out as caterpillars and grow into butterflies who can fly!” Her art teacher introduced her to Youth Art Month activities and thought her butterfly was great! “When I am not painting, I like to ride my bike and go to the beach. I also like to play the steel pans, volleyball, and softball. I would love to visit other islands and meet the people who live there. Being on the cover makes me feel happy and great!” 36 • June /July 2020
J
ah’Sai, a 3rd grader at Ay Ay Academy Homeschool in Whim, Frederiksted, was born to be an artist as his name means “God’s painter.” What he likes best about school are divisions, multiplications, and fractions but says that his favorite subject is Spanish! “Next year I will be in 4th grade, if I pass; I know the subjects will be getting harder! I got involved in Youth Art Month by being invited to go to a class at Miss Barbara’s (Gelardi) Studio in Christiansted. Every Saturday we were given a different subject to draw. The Moko Jumbie, on the July cover came from one of those classes. I like them because they ‘introduce’ the Virgin Islands but I don’t think I would like to be that tall!”
Local Art
ART CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! YOUTH ART MONTH ONLINE EXHIBIT “Take a Journey Through Art” By Niarus Walker, Co-chair
Facebook Youth Art Month VI Student Online Gallery 2020.
ALONDRA RODRIGUEZ Grade 10, Ed Complex and KAVIDNAE ROSSINGTON Grade 11, Ed Complex
I’VRY EDWARDS Grade 5, Claude O. Markoe Elementary School
KAMANIA DINKINS Grade 9, Ed Complex
ZUMA NISBETT Grade 5, Ricardo Richards School BARECIA BROOKS Grade 5, Lew Muckle Elementary School
ANGELINA SPRINGER Grade 9, Central High School
ISOLDE DIAZ Grade 6, Pearl B. Larsen Elementary School
The Arts and Creative Artists’ Institute (ACMI) established a program in 1961 to emphasize the value of art education for children. It was later named Youth Art Month (YAM). The Council for Arts in Education (CFAE) was created by ACMI to head up YAM as a platform to advocate for the Visual Arts in Education as a national program. www.councilforarteducation.org/youth-art-month. While studying for a graduate degree in Art Education at Florida State University, I attended a National Art Education Association Convention (NAEA) in Chicago where I learned about Youth Art Month. After returning to St. Croix to teach Visual Arts at Central High School in 2006, I was able to establish the local Virgin Islands YAM and March was proclaimed Youth Art Month in the VI by the Honorable Governor John de Jongh the next year. Many people have helped to make this program a reality including gallery owners donating their spaces and Maria Stiles who, from the very beginning, has assisted me in making YAM a possibility—a true labor of love for the arts in education. Save for three years, YAM has been an annual event since 2007. We were able to expand to St. Thomas once and to do it again last year with Maria coordinating the program there. YAM is not solely an art exhibit, its a program designed to foster support for Visual Art Education culminating in a district, and now Territory-wide exhibition. During the month of March art teachers, without whose participation Youth Art Month would not exist, promote the arts within their schools with special programs like side-walk chalk drawing, art festivals, and workshops. This year’s program shifted out of necessity due to the current health crisis. Going online in April, as a solution to the inability to hold the exhibits indoors made our local effort a truly community-wide event. Kudos to all art teachers, students, parent supporters, community supporters and Maria “sistah Iria” Stiles. And Thank you to the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts for your support.
June /July 2020 • 37
Local Art ART MARKET
Art @ Top Hat – 340-692-2787 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 Christa’s Art Gallery – 340-513-8581 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,
Weddings I DO!
coasters, rugs, cushions, mugs, and tee shirts. Sign up for art classes and Sip and Paint events. Open Mon – Fri, 11am – 5:30pm; Sat, 10am – 3pm. 57 Company Street. www.christaart.com. Facebook. Instagram. Henle Studio – 340-332-1628 Celebrating 25 years, this historic loft, upstairs on Company Street in Christiansted, showcases the paintings and prints of Maria Henle, the photographs, books, and films of St. Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle, the fine art photography of Tina Henle, the beautiful Sea Glass Jewelry of Therese Donarski, paintings by Jack Anglin and various other artists. Call for scheduled hours and by appointment. www.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.
ART @ TOP HAT GALLERY
Tied the knot.
Tina Henle
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!
FINE LOCAL ART - PRINTS - CARDS - PHOTOGRAPHY MAPS - HANDMADE JEWELRY - VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES AUTHENTIC WEST INDIAN ANTIQUES
52 Company Street, Christiansted 340-513-3558
Fritz Henle • Maria Henle • Tina Henle & other artists #55 Company St., Christiansted HenleGallery.com • 340-332-1628
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? The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands.
Celebrating Art & Culture
Paintings - Prints - Tees - Totes - Rugs - Posters Umbrellas - Pillows - Shower Curtains - Mugs
‘Sip & Paint’ Events - Art Classes 57 Company Street - 340-513-8581 www.christaart.com 38 • June /July 2020
Our Danish Connection Throughout the Caribbean in former days, several European nations contended for ownership of many islands for their natural resources and value as providers of the profitable sugar cane cultivation. The small Scandinavian country of Denmark was an early player in St. Thomas 1660, St. John 1718, and St. Croix as the last but most profitable acquisition purchased from France in 1733. During the 184 years this island was owned by Denmark, that distant nation left its mark in so many ways. It can be said that it would be hard to find an island whose legacy from a former colonial owner is viewed by its population in as positive and friendly light as ours. This has resulted in a close relationship between Denmark and the U.S. Virgin Islands that has brought thousands of visitors from Denmark to visit these former possessions that hold so many memories of former days before 1917, the year of the Transfer to the United States. Here are some examples: • The solid 18th and 19th architectural structures, including official buildings, commercial or private residences, constructed of brick brought here as ballast, providing a handsome link to the past still in use.
The Language Mix That is Ours by Nina York A veritable tower of Babel is probably an apt description of what our linguistic history entails. We have not only been claimed by at least 7 nations, starting with Spain in 1493, but we even inherited a few words from the original Amerindian population, that long ago populated this island that they called Ay-Ay. Did you know that “hammock” was an Amerindian name for a very practical home furnishing item they invented? Spain was a dominant and early conqueror of so many locations in the Caribbean, and while the Spanish language never became the official language here, because the settlement by Spaniards was very scarce, limited to military occupants, it has reappeared in modern times as the secondary language of St. Croix, to a great extent due to our proximity to Puerto Rico. While our sister island of St. Thomas saw a considerable contingent of Dutch settlers, the Flemish tongue was used more there than on St. Croix even though it was claimed but sparsely settled by the Dutch; they did, however, introduce sugarcane to St. Croix. The dialect spoken by the many enslaved Africans that would soon be coming here was a peculiar blend of Dutch and African vocabularies known as Dutch Creole. How that evolved was connected to the arrival by Moravian missionaries from Germany who quickly learned Creole, a fairly simple language to use in their teachings of the enslaved; they even translated the bible, hymns, and prayers to Creole language, a major accomplishment. But after emancipation, many missionaries departed, while the Moravian church persevered.
• The prolific ruins of the many plantation structures that once produced sugar and rum. Including the many former windmills that ground sugar cane. • The continued use of the old plantation names for all areas of the countryside, even the 18th century division of the island into named Quarters, as well as the old Danish street names in the towns, plus the old-time numbering of street addresses. Our two towns are named for Danish kings. • The presence in four churches of the official Danish Lutheran denomination. • The old cemeteries with special sections for Danish gravesites, and thorough records by Danish scribes of everyone buried there. • The continued use of certain holidays from the Danish calendar. • The many families carrying Danish last names despite African origin, and even use of historic Danish first names for Crucian children. • The existence of a Friends of Denmark organization that carries out exchange visit Festivals by members with its sister Society in Denmark, Danish West Indian Society, in addition to offering scholarships, sponsoring visits by Danish choirs, athletes, musicians and scholars. • The existence of a voluminous website accessible by anyone that covers all the persons residing here throughout the Danish period 1734 to 1917, thanks to the thorough records kept by the Danes during that time. • Access on the internet to over 5 million documents at the Danish archives relevant to the Danish West Indies, as our islands were called. • Last, but not least, the 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!
The Moravian missionaries from Germany brought Christianity to the enslaved in our islands, not only learning the Creole spoken by them but translating hymns and the New Testament, as shown here. Image is from a Danish illustrated history of the colonies of Denmark, Fjernt fra Danmark (1974).
The French presence on this island lasted less than 50 years and left traces in place names, and when the Danish West India and Guinea Company in 1733 acquired the island, the largest number of settlers were not Danes but persons from the British islands; some brought their own slaves that spoke an English Creole that soon became the lingua franca among the enslaved. A version still exists and is spoken among the local population, to the consternation of visitors who have a hard time understanding Crucian. Also, the fact that there was not a large Danish settlement here allowed English to become the dominant language during Danish times, although all official proclamations were issued in both Danish and English. Concurrent with the flourishing sugar economy in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, St. Croix became an international trading hub and half a dozen languages were spoken; a phenomenon that we see documented by Alexander Hamilton’s linguistic acumen derived from his childhood here. We can consider ourselves fortunate that Denmark realized the advantage of having English play the greater role, making the transition to becoming an American territory considerably easier than was the case for the Spanish-speaking areas. 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. June /July 2020 • 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 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.
Lyric Sails. Smooth Frederiksted Sunset Sail.
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 • June /July 2020
Combining her love for the ocean with a passion for music, food and wine, Captain Emily Weston, a marine biologist and dive instructor, has brought a unique venue to St. Croix—Lyric Sails! On her boat “Jolly Mon,” a 63-foot, custom-built, former racing catamaran, she and her amazing crew host sunset and
Watersports
STEAL SOME TIME AND GET IN THE WATER!
Snorkel Quicker and See More with Mermaid Adventures Stormie and April, owners of Mermaid Adventures, moved to St. Croix six years ago after having snorkeled many parts of the world and in different environments; they found this island the most mesmerizing! Stormie worked for many years as a Park Ranger and Lake Patrol Officer in California teaching conservation education, conducting patrols and responding to emergencies.
with a whole new appreciation for the island and surrounding reef.
Starting Mermaid Adventures was an easy transition with our focus on environmental education and having fun while snorkeling safely. There is so much to see and experience that we get excited with each tour, showing our guests things that they would have never noticed otherwise.
Gift Certificates can be purchased online or when you’re on tour. Discounts available for Locals and St. Croix Environmental Association (S.E.A.) members. “Go Free on Your Birthday” when you bring a buddy. Open 7 days, 9 am - 6 pm.
Our sea scooters really make things exciting for our customers. Their vibration attracts turtles and dolphins often causing them to come right up to our guests when
Tours are small (6 or less) and closely guided, so we can assure that the reef and aquatic critters are experienced in the safest way. We also supply everything needed for your adventure including sunblock shirts and reef safe sunscreen for those who need it. In addition, part of all our proceeds benefit local reef charities.
they are nearby! The scooters float, making it easier for snorkeling since they do most of the work by pulling you through the water—think of it as a big motorized floaty. They are also safer as the sea scooter helps keep the snorkelers floating instead of stepping on or running into coral. This way, guests are able to cover ten times more area on a sea scooter and walk away
Mermaid Adventures 310-968-2349 www.mermaidadventures.net
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
June /July 2020 • 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. Longsnout Seahorses.
Jenny Keith
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 • June /July 2020
Sweet Bottom Dive Center. Get Certified!
Tim Linse
JOIN THE EXPERTS! BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS cont..... moonlight sails, with live music by local and visiting musicians, Wed – Sun out of Frederiksted and sail and beach “Funday” day sails on Sun and Mon. Also look for special events such as “Wine on the Water”—a 6-course wine and food pairing dinner, Reggae night and Spanish night. Each sail features appetizers, rum punch and an on-board bar. Private, customizable day sails and snorkel tours are available daily, and private evening charters are available on request. Book online at www.lyricsails.com.
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
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
Celebrating 37 Years!
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 June /July 2020 • 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. Discover St. Croix’s mangroves!
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 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
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 44 • June /July 2020
Approaching Buck Island.
Ted Davis
Watersports
LIVE THE BIO BAY EXPERIENCE! 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 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 virginkayaktours.com
West End Water Sports. Fun, safe Jet Skiis at your service!
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 across from Tamarind Reef. We provide high-end 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
Mermaid Adventures. An Ostridge Sea Cucumber!
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 June /July 2020 • 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 2019 / Januar y 2020
Al Dorsa
Golf & Tennis PLAY TIME!
NPS diver applying disease treatment.
Kristen Ewen, NPS
Coral Disease in the USVI
Part 1: Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease Nathaniel Hanna Holloway, NPS, Biological Science Technician
Corals, just like humans, can catch diseases. In fact, researchers have been studying coral diseases in the Caribbean since the 1970’s. Some of you might be surprised to find out that one of the coral diseases was discovered right here on St. Croix. In 1977 researchers first described a disease called White Band Disease based on observations they made on the reefs around St. Croix. Since then over 30 coral diseases have been reported across the Caribbean. More recently a coral disease called Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, or SCTLD, was seen in Florida in 2014. SCTLD was observed on St. Thomas in January of 2019 at Flat Cay. Since then the disease has spread across most of the reefs on St. Thomas and is now impacting reefs on the western end of St. John. This disease is especially worrisome for scientists and territorial and national park natural resource managers because it affects many of the important reef building corals in the Caribbean. SCTLD spreads much faster and is more lethal than other coral diseases. Shortly after the disease was observed on St. Thomas a working group of local organizations, the Virgin Islands Coral Disease Advisory Committee (VI-CDAC), came together to discuss researching the disease, looking for and treating the disease, and educating the public about the disease. Fortunately, the disease has not yet been observed on St. Croix. But we need your help! Go to the VI-CDAC website to find out more about where the disease is, how you can prevent the spread, and what is being done (https://www. vicoraldisease.org/). You can submit reports of diseased corals by clicking the “Report Sightings” button on the website. You can also help prevent the spread of the disease by disinfecting your SCUBA and snorkel gear; just follow the guidelines on the website. Finally, personal choices have an enormous impact regarding the protection of corals: drop anchors away from corals, do not litter, use reef-safe sunscreens, reduce use of single use plastics, and avoid eating herbivorous fish (like parrotfish) which keep reefs clean from algae.
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.
Carambola Golf Club.
The Buccaneer Hotel courts.
Steve Simonsen
Par 72 Championship Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.
Kelly Greer
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease over 6 weeks. Sonora Meiling, UVI
For more info: nhannaholloway@nps.gov
Photo by Kelly Greer
Tee times from 7:30am - 4pm
72 Estate River 340-778-5638
www.golfcarambola.com June /July 2020 • 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 • June /July 2020
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.
Sunrise at Turner Hole. BJ Lewis
Atlantic Ocean Puerto Rico
Tortola
US
St. Thomas
BVI
UK
St. John
Culebra Vieques
Christiansted
N
Caribbean Sea
Frederiksted
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★
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
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 June /July 2020 • 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
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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 • June /July 2020
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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 June /July 2020 • 51
Getting Around
BOOK WITH A SENSE OF ADVENTURE!
TAXI SERVICES Believe It Taxi Service..................340-690-3774 Rudy’s Taxi & Tours:.... 340-773-6803, 514-4600 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 • June /July 2020
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
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.
June /July 2020 • 53
On-the-Go Destinations! FIND IT HERE! IN, ON, AND BY THE WATER.
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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
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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. Scotia Bank ATM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 5. Kings Hill Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 6. Richmaond Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2
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54 • June /July 2020
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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. Reef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 6. St. C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 7. Schooner Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 8. Sugar Beach St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 9. Villa Madeliene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2 AMA Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 3. Beach Side Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 4. Blue Water Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1
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0 1/2 1 kilometre 5. Cast Iron Pot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 6. Cheeseburger’s In Paradise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 7. CHOP & Grill Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 8. Deep End Bar & Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-2 9. Duggan’s Reef. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 10. El Flamboyant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 11. Grounded Café. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 12. La Reine Chicken Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-2 13. Leatherback Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 14. Plaza Extra West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4 Get Fit/Be Well 1. Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center. . . . . . . . . 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
St. Croix Road Map FIND IT HERE! SCENIC ROUTES.
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St. Croix Dive Sites A series of dive site descriptions. 5.
Twin Anchors – Mooring is in 40 feet. North, 40 feet away, is a huge Danish anchor. Abundant reef fish and Moray Eels. Bottom slope 70 feet and you will see Sting Rays and Barracuda there. 6. Little Cozumel – Mooring is 42 feet in front of a cul de sac. Great place to see lobsters, Trigger Fish, and big schools of Grunts. Out in the flats, at 70 feet, lots of endangered Staghorn Coral.
Brought to you by Dive Experience, Christiansted boardwalk.
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.
© Cartographers, LTD. 2020
6. Divi Carina Beach Resort and Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . N-2 7. Hotel on the Cay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 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 Factory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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. Point Udall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P-1 10. Randall “Doc” James Racetrack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 11. Salt River National Historic Park & Ecological Preserve . G-0 12. St. Croix Seashell Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 13. St. Croix Yacht Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1
14. Sunny Isle Shopping Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 15. The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands . . . . . . . D-4 16. 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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. June /July 2020 • 55
Q
Get Around Like a Local! FIND IT HERE! EXPLORE HISTORIC CHRISTIANSTED. 5
Protestant Cay
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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. Breakers Roar Tiki Bar 2. BREWSTX 3. Café Christine / ART GALLERY 4. Grounded Cafe 5. Luncheria 6. Maria’s Cantina
7. Nates Boathouse 8. Nauti Bar & Grille 9. Salty Beetchz 10. Seaside Market & Deli 11. Shupe’s on the Boardwalk 12. Singh’s Fast Food 13. The Courtyard Get Fit/Be Well 1. Cultured Naturals 2. PamperedVI Getting Around 1. Budget St. Croix 2. Centerline Car Rentals 3. Seaborne Seaplane Ramp Local Art 1. Art @ Top Hat 2. Christa’s Art Gallery 3. Henle Studio 4. Maufe Gallery
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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 Shop Duty Free 1. Asha World Designs 2. Baci Duty Free 3. Crucian Gold 4. Ebbe’s Store 5. Eden South 6. ib designs
P - Parking Christiansted National Historic Site Christiansted National Historic District
7. Joyia Inspirational Jewelry 8. Rare Finds 9. RJS Handmade Designs 10. Small Wonder 11. SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry 12. Sublime STX 13. The Shoe Bar 14. Tropical Bracelet 15. Undercover Books & Gifts
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.
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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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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
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. June 57 June / July/July 2014 •2020 Page•57
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.
2◆ 5 4 7 2 6◆
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Locations north of Frederiksted
2
To Creque Dam Rd.
63
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Mahogany Rd.
Hams Bluff Rd.
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631
FOR YOUR SAFETY AED Locations in Frederiksted
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American Legion Hall Botanical Garden Cruise Ship Pier Fire Station Police Bike Patrol Unit Sandcastle on the Beach Vincent Mason Pool Whim Museum
Ft. Fred Beach
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Hospital St.
King St.
East St.
631
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Fisher
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St.
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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
N ew St.
S trand St.
King C ross St.
3
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5 1
Hill St. 1
3
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Prince St.
Pier
Queen St.
1 goon St. ★ 2 La 8 ★ 3 ★ 1 4 ★ 9 . St 3 4 5 Custom House 12 ★ 1 2 13 Market St. ATM 15 1 ★ 13 11 5 2 ★ ★ ★ 7 1★ ATM 10 ★ 8 ★ ATM
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La Grange Rd. 12
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
5
Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker Real Estate
odist
2
1
Vetera nʼs Sh or
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Frederiksted Dive Sites
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
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 ◆
4 ◆ © Cartographers, LTD. 2020
58 • June /July 2020
70
Food & Drink 1. Beach Side Café 2. Cibone 3. 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 11. Police Bike Patrol Unit 12. Public Restrooms 7013. Rotary Club of St. Croix West
14. St. Croix Country Club Sports 1. Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism 2. Cruzan Cowgirls 3. Lyric Sails 4. Mermaid Adventures 5. Nep2une Scuba Diving 6. 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
172ND ANNIVERSARY OF VI EMANCIPATION
Virgin Islands Emancipation Day Celebration, St. Croix, 2003.
T
his year marks the 15th celebration of June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month. The campaign to designate this month was spearheaded by Dr. Claire Nelson, Founder and President of the Institute of Caribbean Studies. The commemoration hopes to ensure that America is reminded that its greatness lies in its diversity, with Caribbean immigrants from founding father Alexander Hamilton, to journalist Malcolm Gladwell, who have shaped the American dream.
The Vision of the National Caribbean American Heritage Month movement is an America where all the contributions of the diverse immigrants that have come to these shores are celebrated and the American dream of a melting pot society that honors and promotes inclusive prosperity is realized as we all pursue the unfolding of a more perfect union. The Mission is to promote the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean American people and their contribution to the United States of America. The Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center at the University of the Virgin Islands continues to educate our communities on Culture, Heritage, and Education and on historical narratives worthy of inclusion in commemorations, celebrations, and observances. As VI Freedom Week extends from June 26th to July 3rd annually, July is designated for observances, celebrations and commemorations honoring Virgin Islands Emancipation, Family Genealogy & Reunions, Bamboula cul-
tural heritage traditions, and freedom with resilience. The Bamboula is an art and science that manifests as more than music, dance and song while including ancestral spiritual legacies in contemporary times honoring Crucian and inclusive VI Caribbean culture. Normally, all across the country and here in the Caribbean and on St. Croix, Caribbean American community leaders would be organizing events in June to celebrate the many contributions that Caribbean immigrants have been making to America including a Legislative Week in Washington, D. C., conferences, forums, award ceremonies, special events, festivals and galas. With COVID-19 Stay Safe at Home orders in effect at this time, these meaningful and supportive activities have no doubt been cancelled or postponed to a future time. On St. Croix, the same is true with observances of Caribbean American Heritage Month and the 172nd Anniversary of Virgin Islands Emancipation Day (July 3, 1848) pending at press time.
Pampered VI
Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Pampered VI
60 • June /July 2020 Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center
The Courtyard Juices & Fitness
Eat Right! Get Fit! TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF!
Ted Davis
Stay Active! Be Well! MOVE FOR HEALTH!
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 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.
Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Monthly Health Talks, June 30 & July 28.
Cultured Naturals Body Care — 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,
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. Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center — 340-713-4326 Our all-encompassing approach to health is focused on improving your ability to heal and function. We use comprehensive testing, including X-rays, to understand your body’s structure. Specific chiropractic adjustments remove any interference that’s preventing your body from working optimally. We also make recommendations on nutrition, exercise and rehabilitation to help you get better results, faster. Just like on the islands, there may be
Facials - Massage - Body Scrubs Eyelash Extensions & More! Chiropractic & Wellness Center
340-773-7728 Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
Cultured Naturals Body Care. Defense Hand-Sanitizer Gel! Susan Wall
potholes along your health journey. We are here to help you and your family find solutions through empowered health. With knowledgeable, well-qualified chiropractors and state-ofthe-art technology, Paradise Chiropractic & Wellness Center is here for you. Our chiropractors care deeply and work tirelessly to help you live a better life. Start your journey to better living by contacting us today! Insurance is accepted. www.paradisechirovi.com
Chiropractic Nutrition Optimization Detox Health Talks
day spa & lash lounge
www.pamperedvi.com Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House
• Board Certified Doctors of Chiropractic • Family Chiropractic: Pre and Post Natal, and Pediatric Care • Sports and Extremeties Chiropractic
PETER’S REST near FedEx - 340-713-4326 www.paradisechirovi.com
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 June /July 2020 • 61
ts ble I. st kes s
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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
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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 Washington Hill, Frederiksted. RE/MAX St. Croix
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
n
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.
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 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
Contact us about buying, selling
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 • June /July 2020
ST. CROIX REAL ESTATE & COVID-19 Gail Bourdon, Broker-Owner, RE/MAX St. Croix
I
f you’re planning to invest in the Caribbean, you need to cosider St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands!
St. Croix is Southeast of the U.S. and is the largest of the four US Virgin Islands, mostly rural with an average temperature of 85 degrees—and amazing Tradewinds! This makes the island an ideal location to live with the chaos of COVID-19. With its fertile lowlands, dense forests, isolated beaches, lots of open space, breezes and plenty of sunshine, Nature’s ‘vitamins’ are everywhere helping to cure mind and body. Our quick cure, some may call it the Zpack of the island, is laying under a palm tree, taking in a strong dose of sunshine and a swim in the warm Caribbean Sea. This, coupled with friendly residents and a diverse culture, is a receipt for the positive energy we all need right now! What are the benefits of investing in real estate on St. Croix now as COVID-19 subsides? The tourism and the housing market here has followed a steady and robust growth since the hurricanes of 2017 and the opening of the oil refinerary has brought in new life to real estate sales and rentals. This steady growth in the economy will be beneficial in the years to come. Buying property on St. Croix provides the same real estate laws and protections that one can enjoy on the US mainland but offers the added benefit of doing business in shorts and sandals, while conducting millions of dollars worth of professional transactions. We lack traffic jams, daily commutes, malls, and lots of people in the streets; a ‘crowded’ beach in St. Croix means a family of five is taking an afternoon swim. If you crave a Caribbean lifestyle like the one St. Croix offers and would like to learn about investing in St. Croix real estate now, see our ad on Page 2 and contact us!
RE/MAX St. Croix Real Estate Group 5 Company Street, Christiansted 340-773-1048 – info@remax-stcroix.com www.remax-stcroix.com
Buying 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
Washington Hill View of Pier and Sandy Point, Frederiksted.
RE/MAX St. Croix
PARADISE AWAITS YOU St. Croix | U.S. Virgin Islands
www.stcroixislandlife.com 5100 Chenay Bay Christiansted, VI 00820 Joe Caruso | Realtor Cell: 340-474-0466 joe @ stcroixislandlife.com
SALES & RENTALS Gallows Bay | 340.718.7000 340.778.7000
Experience the Difference ColdwellBankerVI.com
Frederiksted | 340.642.3333 June /July 2020 • 63
THE GARDEN GOES TO CUBA
THE TRAVEL CLUB’S 22 PARTICIPANTS HOME-BASED IN HAVANA
P
ictured is the Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cuba’s western province of Pinar del Río. This spectacular world famous and unique landscape was one of many fabulous sites and activities that members and friends of St. George Village Botanical Garden of St. Croix toured during their week’s visit to our Caribbean neighbor, the island nation of Cuba. U.S. citizens are seldom informed about Cuba’s flora and fauna, its bio-diversity, or rich and resilient history of its multi-ethnic population and their vibrant culture of art, music, and education. The 22-member group was led by horticulturist, Dewey Hollister the Executive Director at the Botanical Garden
of the Virgin Islands and St. Croix author, Michael Connors who visits Cuba regularly. The March eightday tour included stops at the magical gardens of Havana, Viñales Valley, Las Terrazas and the world’s largest orchid garden, Orquideario de Soroa, located in the UNESCO biosphere reserve Sierra del Rosario. The garden has more than 20,000 plants and 800 species of orchids, 250 of which are endemic. Tour members not only learned about the endemic endangered species of plants but experienced the gastronomical delights of Cuban cuisine, numerous nighttime music venues, emerging artists and art trends and the amazing historically significant architecture of Old Havana.
THE VIÑALES VALLEY IN CUBA’S WESTERN PROVINCE OF PINAR DEL RIO Jorge A. Laserna 64 • June /July 2020
STARS SHOPPING
ST. CROIX Sky Watch JUNE 2020 / JULY 2020
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.
July Moon Phases
First Quarter................. 5 Jun Full Moon....................13 Jun Last Quarter................21 Jun New Moon..................23 Apr First Quarter...............28 Jun
Full Moon..............................5 Jul Last Quarter......................12 Jul New Moon........................21 Jul First Quarter......................27 Jul
WEST
June Moon Phases
EAST
By: Tom Lesser, formerly Senior Lecturer at the American Museum-Hayden Planetarium and frequent island visitor.
Sunrise & Sunset June Sunrise..................................................................... 6:05 am June Sunset......................................................................7:33 pm July Sunrise...................................................................... 6:14 am July Sunset.......................................................................7:35 pm
SOUTH
Sunrise and sunset times are based on the 15th of each month.
CONSTELLATIONS: UPPER CASE • Stars: Lower Case
June Once the sky has grown dark, a lion will dominate the western sky. You cannot find a lion there? Look for the bright reddish star Regulus. Regulus is the dot at the base of a backwards question mark. This forms the Lion’s head and the front part of its body. A small triangle of fainter stars for the Lion’s hind quarters and tail. If Leo does not look like a lion, why is it called Leo? Perhaps because long ago these stars were seen during the Summer months when water in the outlying areas dried up and thus the lions would come down to the river. People of course, lived near the river and people and the lions did not get along. So, when you see the stars of the lion in the sky, look out for the real lions are around. Almost directly overhead is another bright star Arcturus, in Boötes, the Herdsman. According to one myth, Boötes invented the plough and to honor him the goddess Ceres placed him in the heavens. South of Arcturus is Spica, in Virgo, the Goddess of the Harvest. To the east of Spica is a bright reddish star Antares, the heart of Scorpius, the Scorpion. Around 9:00 p.m. Jupiter will rise in the east and is seen against the background of stars of Sagittarius, the Archer. About 30 minutes
later Saturn will rise along with the stars of Capricornus, the Seagoat, and after midnight Mars will rise seen against the stars of Aquarius, the Waterbearer. Sagittarius, Capricornus, and Aquarius are all constellations of the zodiac. As dawn begins to brighten the eastern sky, the very bright Venus will rise. On June 20th the North Pole of the Earth will be tilted toward the Sun. The Sun will reach its northernmost position in the sky and will be directly over the Tropic of Cancer. This is the first day of summer (Summer Solstice) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of winter (Winter Solstice) in the Southern Hemisphere.
July On July 4th the Earth will be at aphelion, its most distant point from the Sun for the year. The center of the Earth will be 94,507,635 miles from the center of the Sun. (On January 5th the Earth was at its closest point, at a distance of “only” 91,398,199 miles.) On July 5th, the Virgin Islands will experience a partial this penumbral eclipse of the Moon. The part of Moon will pass through the lighter part of the Earth’s shadow. This is a rather subtle event and most people wouldn’t even notice it. The eastern sky is dominated by a very
bright star-like object; the largest of all the planets, Jupiter. On July 14th, Jupiter is opposite the Sun as seen from the Earth (called opposition) and thus the side facing Earth will be fully illuminated by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long. Jupiter is seen against the background of stars of Sagittarius, the Archer. East of Jupiter, and somewhat fainter, is the ringed planet Saturn. Saturn will be at opposition on July 22nd. The bright stars Arcturus and Virgo will have shifted toward the west and almost due south is Antares, a bright red star that marks the heart of Scorpius, the Scorpion. If you are away from bright lights look between Antares and Jupiter for a faint hazy band of light that stretches from the south to the northeast. This is the Milky Way, our galaxy. The band you see is light from millions and millions of stars so far away that you cannot see them as individual stars, just as a hazy band of light. When you look at the Milky Way in the direction of Sagittarius, you are looking toward the center of our galaxy. The night of July 28th-29th is the maximum of the Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower. The Delta Aquarids is an average shower that can produce up to 20 meteors, or shooting stars. The best viewing will be from a dark location between midnight and dawn.
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