Is the VI Government Keeping WAPA in the Dark Ages, and Your Utility Bills High?

The payment, coupled with the work of the Administration in securing a line of credit for WAPA, is a significant step towards not only easing the cash flow crunch at the public utility but solidifying WAPA’s operational stability which may result in a reduction of rates to V.I. consumers.

-Virgin Islands Governor John deJongh

In an article entitled, "V.I. Coughs Up $17.5M for Debts to WAPA" the Source details a plan to pay some of the money owed to the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA).

Now, I don't know how this is supposed to work. But, I would imagine that if you or I were behind in our bills our electricity would be cut. Apparently, the Virgin Islands Government has a different idea. They feel as though they could run up the bill and never pay...or allow payments to fall way behind.

(Funny though, we're discussing appropriation of $34 Million to open a private fish farm, but don't have the money to pay our bills. hmm.....)

And then, I read the comments by the Governor stating that paying the government's bill "may result in a reduction of rates to V.I. consumers." Uh, you think?

WAPA is already strapped for cash. With a $46 Million cash shortfall, it's hard to imagine that any repairs woujld be done to the antiquated facilities. WAPA's budget for FY2009 projects a net loss of $307,000! Under these circumstances, WAPA could be forced to raise rates even more.

To top it all off, Standard and Poor’s (S&P) has revised its outlook on WAPA to “negative” from “stable.” A negative rating will - of course - make it difficult for WAPA to receive any loans to meet its budget shortfalls. And, S&P has suggested that WAPA apply a fuel surcharge to compensate for rising fuel costs. This, as well, could force WAPA to raise its rates to you - the consumer.

All this, and the Government is not reliably paying its bills. All this, and the Government has no qualms passing along undue burden to Virgin Islanders?!

That burden is not simply felt in the pocket. It is also seen with the eyes...well, make that not seen. The Source reports:

The results have been evident over the past few weeks -- constant power outages and rolling blackouts continue on all three islands, as generating units continue to fail or have to get taken out for repairs.

We have been living with this for decades. If the wind blows to hard, the power goes out. If you sneeze on a Friday, the power goes out. If you watching your favorite show, the power goes out.

But, more money alone won't solve the problem. WAPA is also plagued by a problem of inefficiency. Again, we refer to The Source:

Projected revenues of $47.5 million are expected to fund $47.8 million worth of expenses...

As an organizational development consultant, I do strategic planning. And - as I would tell any Client, if ever your expenses are greater than your revenues there's a problem with the efficiency of provided services. Unlike other areas, there is only so much expansion to be done...there is an essentially fixed amount of customers who will need electricity. Unlike in the states, we cannot rely on "suburban sprawl." WAPA must work with the pool of customers it currently has. So, they must find a way to "do more with less," don't you think? If not, the only option is for Virgin Islanders to pay higher and higher rates. Is that what you want?

We must demand a plan!

Where else can you find a utility system so subpar? Yet while the people suffer from high priced, low quality service, the Government of the Virgin Islands shirks its responsibility to pay its bills. While the people can't enjoy a day of outtage free service, the Government of the Virgin islands has proposed no plan to rapidly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of WAPA.

No one has determined to solve the problem. Don't you think that is a problem? I do.

But, this ain't about me: what do you think? Should there be a plan to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of WAPA's services? What should be in that plan?

Answer the Call: Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Territory First!

I learned something great from Senator John McCain. His campaign slogan is "Country First." And, recent discussion have caused me to think about what that means for us as Virgin Islanders.

Several people have asked me: "I'm a ______. What does it mean for me when you say: 'Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders?'"

Then, I recently had an argument with some members of the Virgin Islands Republican Party. Certain members had the audacity to be racially insensitive, and then intellectually oblivious. Instead of embracing the Virgin Islands Community, they choose to remain separate from the majority - confining themselves to a country club of sorts, organized for their own self benefit.

These are the types of people that are detrimental to progress in the Virgin Islands. These are the type who seek to benefit from the lack of structure in the Virgin Islands, and the ease of corruption. These are the type who use the Virgin Islands to rebuild from the failures of their path, in a location where they are not known. If that were not the case, they would gladly weave themselves into the fabric of Virgin Islands society, right? And, we must be on guard against their kind at every turn.

So, I am forced to think: "where must we draw the line?" I found myself beginning to understand why there's a debate over who is, and who isn't, a Virgin Islander. And, although I disagree, I also understand why folks are caught up trying to define a "Native Virgin Islander" in our Constitution. Yet, in all of that, I think I may have found a solution.

Let me be clear: this is not a White thing or a Black thing. It is not a Republican thing or a Democrat thing. This is not an issue of who is native and who is foreign.

The issue at hand is: who answers the call in defense of the Virgin Islands? Who thinks "Territory First?" Who is asserting our position as a free and independent people? By those actions we shall know who is - and who is not - a Virgin Islander.

What does it mean to be Territory First? It means that we see everything from the perspective of the Virgin Islands. Territory First implies that we always seek ways to advance the Virgin Islands either politically or economically. Being Territory First means that no matter our outlook, we all stand on the foundation of the Virgin Islands.

Regardless of where we're from...regardless of our ethnicity...regardless of our political affiliation, we must all tout the mantra of Territory First. So, ask those who wish to be leaders: "what will you do to advance the Virgin Islands?" Ask them: "what do you bring to the table to enhance life for Virgin Islanders?"

If they cannot answer those questions, we must reject them. They can feel free to live amongst us, but they ought not have any role in VI society. We should not frequent their businesses; we should not elect them into public office.

It's time that those of us - Black, White, Indian, Frenchie, native, transplant, Democrat and Republican, Christian, Muslim, Jew and Hindi - who care about the Virgin Islands step up in defense of our homeland before it's too late. Before the colonist-minded folks find a way to gentrify the Virgin Islands, we must stake our claim.

What has been your experience? Have you encountered people whom you know have no concern for the Virgin Islands? Do you know folks who only desire to serve their self-interests to the detriment of the VI? How does it make you feel? What do you think should be (could be) done?

Only through self-government can we secure the blessings of Liberty afforded by our homeland. And, only through a Constitution can we develop the framework that will fortify our stake in the Virgin Islands. Only we can do it...our ancestors are counting on YOU.


Answer the call: Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Holding Their Feet to the Fire

Other Peoples' Money. It is a hallmark of capitalism...find a way to accomplish a goal without using any of your own money - or at least, as little of it as possible.

That is not simply a principle for individual wealth, but it is also the formula for business success. The borrower always hopes to get the best deal. The lender always hope to get the best deal. For instance: home loans...borrowers thought they were getting the best deal by minimizing their monetary outlay through ARMs. Likewise, (predatory) lenders thought they were going to get the best deal through the influx of cash that would come in later years. My, how we were wrong!

There's much to be gleaned from the current economic crisis, and untold sums ($700 Billion and rising) it will cost the American Taxpayer to clean up a mess they didn't (really) create. Yet, we see in our own Virgin Islands preparations are being made that could put us on the same dastardly course.

As we've been discussing in previous posts (post 1, post 2, post 3), the Virgin Islands Legislature is considering a bill that would provide $34 Million of TAXPAYER funding to enable Crucian Holdings LLC to open their privately held fish farm on St. Croix. It became the duty of Virgin Islands Watch to investigate this issue and tell you what you need to know...tell you the things no other media source in the Virgin Islands will tell you.

Earlier today (Wednesday, 24th), I told you that Senator Jean-Baptiste's office would call me back. At that time, I highly doubted it: why would a Senator from the Virgin Islands call me - someone not living in the VI, especially on something so controversial? However, much to my surprise, I received a call from Senator Jean-Baptiste.

So, first - I want to applaud the Senator for stepping into the fire without fear. We spoke for about 40 minutes, and I peppered him with numerous questions on this bill. He answered all of my questions, even ignoring phone calls to continue our dialogue. By that action alone, I gather that he must mean well...for even I know: he didn't have to speak with me.

It seems an ideal time for the Virgin Islands to be looking at this issue. Here we have the Federal Government bailing out corporations by the hundreds of billions in taxpayer dollars. And, we're about to sing the same tune.

I framed the dialogue with Senator Jean-Baptiste with that as the back drop. Reminding him that Senator Barack Obama is against the bailout and that the Democratic Party has essentially called it a farce, I aske Senator Jean-Baptiste what he thought of the Federal bailouts. He called it the "metamorphosis of Corporate Welfare." He went on to say that it "sends the wrong message" for the government to be bailing out corporations. He called the policy "not something I support," and that it's "not the best option."

So - I asked, why is it proper for the Virgin Islands Government to be proping up corporations? And, the response was that those getting Federal bailouts "chose to do things the wrong way and are facing the consequences."

He went on to compare this situation to that of an individual applying for a home loan. Yet, when you or I apply for a home loan we will have to pass a test of credit worthiness. To his credit, Senator Jean-Baptiste said that his bill only authorizes the PFA to provide funding...it doesn't demand the provide the funding. Supposedly, the PFA will perform due dilligence to ensure CH's ability to pay. I asked Senator Jean-Baptiste if he would be willing to mandate that this process be open to the public - taking advantage of technology - and he was open to that. Nevertheless, we still must ask: what is their track record?

Crucian Holdings LLC had no website until after Virgin Islands Watch articles. They now have a web domain, but there is nothing on the site. However, through searching, I have found that Crucian Holdings LLC used the services of Fine Print Consulting Services, LLC to help their efforts. Fine Print Consulting is headed by Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg (former - and now returning - Senator). Does anyone else think this smells fishy?

But, that's a different story - may be more there...

Crucian Holdings LLC is headed by A. Bruce Weber and Peter Conforto. The duo appears to have numerous business holdings (here, here, & here - at least). These businesses seem somewhat successful.

So, I asked Senator Jean-Baptiste his rationale for this bill. He said that he looked at the world food situation, the capacity limits upon local fishermen, and the possible contamination of seafood imports from China. He said that those factors coupled with the need to "enhance agricultural projects" in the Virgin Islands made this seem like a good opportunity. As he said, he "is going to try to do something" to move the development of the Territory forward.

Yet, with all of these factors, it seems as if there would be numerous paths through which Crucian Holdings LLC (CH) could acquire the money they need. But, Senator Jean-Baptiste said that CH doesn't have the capital and so they are seeking a loan. Hunh?

It cannot be that they don't have the capital - I know that's what they said, but it must be (in the spirit of Other Peoples' Money) that they don't want to use their capital. Now, that is fine. But, if I understand loans correctly, the borrorwer is usually required to put up some collateral. What collateral are they putting up for this loan? Have we valued their business holdings? And, are their other holdings being used as collateral?

Again, according to Senator Jean-Baptiste, CH has stated that they will use a NOAA grant to repay the loan. My initial question to the Senator was, "if they can get a NOAA grant to repay the loan, why not get the grant instead of the loan?" Senator Jean-Baptiste replied that CH said that due to the Presidential & Congressional Elections, the process would take too long.

1) Why is that our problem?

2) Does the government stop functioning because of the elections?

I went to the NOAA Grants Management Division website. Here's what I found:

In fiscal year 2006 GMD processed 1,931 awards to support research and conservation initiatives coordinated by state and local governments, non-profits, and colleges and universities. GMD awarded funds totaling $1.036 billion to over 300 recipients. That's more than 25% of NOAA's annual budget committed to making progress in understanding the link between our global economy and our planet's environment.

So, 3) How does CH qualify for a NOAA grant? Aren't they a business? Are they conducting research and/or conservation initiatives? Are they a state or local government? Are they a non-profit, college or university?

Apparently, they lied to Senator Jean-Baptiste...unless one of them will contact us and tell us something different.

CH wants the farm as part of their "vertical integration" strategy. Such a strategy offers compelling benefits. Because of these benefits, they are ripe to harvest extraordinary profits. That being the case, why must we subsidize their endeavor? Most likely, if the $34 Million loan is approved, they will apply for EDC benefits. The profits they will accrue will effectively pimp the Virgin Islands.

Are you ready to be used?

What's worse: this vertical integration strategy includes CH taking the fish to market through a restaurant chain, "Crucian Cafe." If we are aware of the problem Ethiopia had with Starbucks (see here), we would understand the importance of this. How can CH profit from the use of the term "Crucian?" They will already be milking the Virgin Islands taxpayers, raping our land and resources, and benefitting from both their business model and our tax breaks for businesses. You mean to tell me we're supposed to give them free reign to profit off of our identity?!

Ridiculous!

All that said, I am grateful to Senator Norman Jean-Baptiste for his time and openness. I have invited him to visit the blog and leave his comments for further follow-up. He said that he is definitely willing to shelve this legislation should it become apparent that the people are against it, but he simply wanted to take a "brave and courageous stance" to do something.

To close our conversation, I asked if he would be willing to at least open the legislation up to require competitive bidding. He said that he is "amenable to this" and would not mind doing so...that it was something he "can embrace."

Look at your power! You have the ability to shape legislation!

So, it is left for us to decide. We must decide if there is any form of this legislation that we find acceptable.

For myself, I don't agree. If they want a loan they should get it from a bank. And, if the banks (who are in business to make money) refuse a loan, why should government do differently? Or, is the Virgin Islands Government about to get into the business of profiting from entrepreneurial ventures and thus, reduce your taxes?

I still say: NO DEAL!

What do you say?

Answer the call: Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

It's Not Over! This Fish Farm Still Lives!

I just got off the phone with Senator Jean-Baptiste's office.

Apparently the article was a little misleading. First, I listed the wrong committee. The bill has been returned to the Committee on Economic Development & Agriculture. The Chair of that Committee is Senator James Webber III. His contact information is in the previous post on this topic. The sponsor of this bill is Senator Norman Jean-Baptiste. His number is 340.712.2305.

I was told (by Senator Webber's office) that there is a tentative date of October 15th, scheduled to redress this bill. For some reason, Senator Jn. Baptiste's office didn't know of this date until I told them!

Anyway, Senator Jn. Baptiste's office informed me that the bill is not dead. They said that the Senator will be working with his colleagues to address their concerns. His hope is to still pass this bill and use $34 Million of YOUR money to prop up a business that - at best estimates - will provide 300 jobs to the Virgin Islands. Honestly, if it's about the 300 jobs, it would be cheaper to take 300 people and give them $75 - $100 thousand each.

In my conversation with Sen. Jn. Baptiste's office, I said that it is ironic that at a time when the Federal Government is trying to "bail out" corporations with taxpayer funds, we in the Virgin Islands are trying to "prop up" a corporation with taxpayer funds! Isn't there something wrong with this?!

Not wanting to simply throw stones, I asked the lady in Sen. Jn. Baptiste's office how he justifies this expenditure. Lacking an answer, she - seemingly - stalled for time by saying that Senator Jn. Baptiste would call me back to explain. We'll see...

Let's force their hand!

All of you that still care about the Virgin Islands - DO THIS NOW!!!

Call Senator Norman Jean-Baptiste at 340.712.2305. Tell his office that you've been reading about this issue on Virgin Islands Watch and that you want him to answer my questions...because you are concerned!

Let us flood their office with phone calls until this bill dies!

This is our home, and only we can defend it!

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

You Did It! Congratulate Yourself...

It turns out that I'm not the only one who felt this crap was ridiculous! Thank God!!!

According to an Associated Press article, the Virgin Islands Legislature denied Crucian Holdings LLC's request for $34 Million dollars to start their fish farm on St. Croix. But, it ain't over!

We must remain vigilant! As the article says:

The Virgin Islands Senate voted 8-2 Thursday to send the loan request back to a committee. Senators questioned whether the fish farm could really pay back the loan in three years.

So, this mess is not over. And while Crucian Holdings LLC says they are "considering several options," I don't believe them...do you?

If it was absolutely over, would this issue be returning to committee? It seems as if this issue has returned to committee to answer the question as to "whether the fish farm could really pay back the loan in three years." So, it's safe to say that if Crucian Holdings LLC's lobbyist/attorney is able to prove that the loan will be repaid then the request may ultimately be granted.

But, you are Defenders of the Virgin Islands! And, you're not going to allow them to spend $34 Million dollars of your money to "prop up" this corporation...right?

Here's what we can do...

Get all of your friends to read this blog...in particular this posting, and the previous one on this issue. Through these two postings, everyone will have throrough information on this topic.

Then, call the Senate and let the Committee on Rules & the Judiciary know that you do not want them to approve this deal. Moreover, let them know that you demand they kill this bill. Remind them that this is an election year....

Here are the Senators on this Committee:

• Senator Carlton Dowe (Chair): 340.693.3507
• Senator James Webber III: 340.712.2222
• Senator Shawn-Michael Malone:340.693.3529
• Senator Ussie Richards (Senate President): 340.712.2320
• Senator Carmen Wesselhoft: 340.693.3546
• Senator Celestino White, Sr.: 340.693.3570
• Senator Alvin Williams: 340.693.3517

Call them and make your voices heard! Email your friends and convince them to make their voices heard! If we don't defend our homeland, no one will.

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Why is it so Hard? Are we Incompotent?

September 17 - 23 marks Constitution Week in the United States. The purpose of Constitution Week is to focus on the purpose of the Founding Fathers of America, and the purpose they undertook in establishing a nation and promoting Liberty for All.

Now, we need not argue about the "birth defects" of the Nation. Yet, we should think about the applications for the Virgin Islands and for us as Virgin Islanders.

As President Bush said:

In the summer of 1787, delegates convened in Philadelphia to create "a more perfect Union" and craft the document that is the foundation of our country.

During Constitution Week, we ought to renew (or find) a commitment to the principles of Liberty. Without a Constitution, what is the foundation of the Virgin Islands? And while we argue about who is and who is not a "Native Virgin Islander," we are faced with the question: Does the Virgin Islands really exist? Are any of us Virgin Islanders?

Today, the true Native Virgin Islander no longer exists. All of us are transplants: some by choice, most in chains. And, while we argue our Country - our land - remains unfounded.

Before the US Constitution, the settlers were no more than subjects of the Crown. It was not until drafting the Declaration of Independence that they began the process of becoming American. And, not until drafting the US Constitution did they solidify their standing as Americans.

We have not declared a status. We have not drafted a founding document. So, who are we - really? We have only accepted a status given to us by our modern-day Crown, and capitulated to their prescribed framework for our existence. Can we be anything more than subjects?

Graphically, the "unique idea" of the Constitution is explained thus:

CREATOR

People

Government

But, what is our model in the Virgin Islands? With the Organic Act as the source of our existence, and a US Congressional declaration as to our "unincorporated" status, our model is effectively thus:

CREATOR

Government

People

Is there not something wrong with this?

Yet, here we are: convention #5 and nothing to show for it besides disunity.

Why is it so hard? Am I the only one who thinks this process should not be so complicated? For the remainder of Constitution Week, I hope to hear from you...

Answer the call: Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

The Struggle for Self-Government

Every man, and every body of men on earth, possesses the right of self-government." --Thomas Jefferson

And, what - pray tell - is self-government? Here's a definition from Merriam-Webster's Dictionary for you to chew on:

government under the control and direction of the inhabitants of a political unit rather than by an outside authority ; broadly : control of one's own affairs

In the Virgin Islands - despite the appearance of a local government - as an unincorporated territory, we are governed by an outside authority in Washington, D.C.

an unincorporated territory is an area under U.S. jurisdiction, to which Congress has determined that only select parts of the U.S. Constitution apply. Unincorporated territories are essentially colonies, under the supremacy clause, receiving only whatever powers are offered by the U.S. Congress.

Did you know that we are not fully protected by the Constitution? As "essentially" a colony, the Virgin Islands clearly lacks self-government. And, without self-go vernment we lack Liberty! Without full constitutional protections, the responsibility lies with us to order our own affairs.

Right now, I'm reading Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville. And, tonight I read something of great importance to our present situation:

Plymouth, Providence, New Haven, Connecticut, and Rhode Island were founded without the help, and almost without the knowledge, of the mother country. The new settlers did not derive their powers from the head of the empire, although they did not deny its supremacy; they constituted themselves into a society, and it was not till thirty or forty years afterwards...that their existence was legally recognized by a royal charter.

Why do we continue to wait for the assistance of a government that has no intention of seeing our incorporation into the mother country? We do not derive our powers from the federal government. But, as Thomas Jefferson said:

Of critical importance is this:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. --That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Our rights are not given to us by the federal government, but by God. And, we do not derive our power from the federal government but from the consent of the governed. Have you given the federal government your consent to be governed? Have you given the Virgin Islands Government your consent? Have you even thought about it? Is it not tyranny to be governed without your consent?

Yet, who is speaking for our right to self-government? Has the Governor argued for it? Or better, has our "representative" argued for it?

Here's the example of former Alaska Delegate to Congress (before statehood) Anthony J. Dimond:

In Alaska we have often complained of the long-range government from Washington, which in many respects is the only kind of government possible under our territorial status. We have talked disparagingly about "bureaus" and "bureaucrats" and have denounced the ineptitude of both. Therefore, I suggest that the people of Alaska should, and do, ardently desire statehood unless economic or other considerations still prevent the accomplishment of that ambition. We all know that we can do a better job in taking care of our own affairs than can be done by some secretary of a department, or chief of an agency, or head of a bureau, whose o ffice is in Washington, D.C., and who necessarily is lacking intimate, first-hand knowledge of a country so far away from Washington as Alaska.

Could not the same be said for us? Should not the same be said? Are we not plagued by unaccountable third-party fiduciaries, and receiverships? (Please read those articles.) Yet, as I search the website of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs (Chaired by Delegate Christensen), I find no definitive stance on the prom otion of self-government. So who will stand for a government by our consent?
With no one standing for us, it is clear that the statement is true: "whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government..."

Is it not time for us to institute new Government, at last with the consent of the governed?

Answer the call: Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Am I the Only One Who Finds this stuff CRAZY?!

Question: Should the Virgin Islands Senators be sponsoring and the Legislature be passing bills to specifically (and solely) benefit a special interest? Did we not learn from the ordeal with Jeffery Prosser and Innovative Communications?

Here's a list of articles you should open in a browser and read through:

• http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News:Local&p=1212902277
• http://new.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News:Local&p=1212901356
• http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/index.pl/article_home?id=17627849
• http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/index.pl/article_home?id=17628590

Ok, now let's talk this through.

First, I've heard of earmarks. But, the process in the Virgin Islands is "earmarks on steroids!"

From Wikipedia, we see how the Congressional Research Service defines earmarks:

Provisions associated with legislation (appropriations or general legislation) that specify certain congressional spending priorities or in revenue bills that apply to a very limited number of individuals or entities. Earmarks may appear in either the legislative text or report language (committee reports accompanying reported bills and joint explanatory statement accompanying a conference report).

This Wikipedia post goes on to say:

Earmarking differs from the broader appropriations process, defined in the Constitution, in which Congress grants a yearly lump sum of money to a Federal agency. These monies are allocated by the agency according to its legal authority and internal budgeting process. With an earmark, Congress has given itself the ability to direct a specified amount of money from an agency's budget to be spent on a particular project, without the Members of Congress having to identify themselves or the project.

Also, an earmark is not a bill. It is an attachment to a bill. Why are we passing $33.4 Million dollars in nonexistent funds specifically for a special interest?

And then, what is the point of the University of the Virgin Islands?

I thought communities had universities to educate the community and serve as scholars on community issues. But, here's what the Source quoted James Rakocy, professor of aquaculture at the UVI Agricultural Experiment Station as having to say:

With my 28 years in aquaculture, I have strong desire to see an aquaculture project on St. Croix. However, my 28 years in aquaculture leaves me to question the viability of this plan.

Professor Rakocy went on to describe other potential problems with this plan, even citing a string of large-scale operations that have gone bankrupt. Yet, the VI Legislature preferred to take the word of Addison Lawrence of Texas A&M University who "assured senators that this industry - based on the plan as well as the land and climate of St. Croix - would be successful."

Herein lies the problem: no standards, no RFPs, no guidelines, no studies., no accountability..only the whims of the Virgin Islands Legislature. What is the purpose of any other government agency (in this case - PFA)? Why not let the Legislature (with their track record of graft) decide it all?

With a proper appropriations process, funding would be allocated to the various agencies of the Virgin Islands Government. Those agencies would be responsible for allocating funds for various projects through (hopefully) appropriate and accountable policies and proceedures. And, despite its problems, at least an earmark must be sought during the budget and appropriation processes.

Sometimes, we will see industry bailouts. Or, as we see this morning - the bailout of AIG. Yet, knee-jerk reactions that place burdens on taxpayers, do not justify bonehead planning that places burdens on other taxpayers. That too is crazy, though...for the same reasons (see here). But, this situation isn't even a bailout. This is a gift!

So, here we are: outside of the budget & appropriations periods, legislating how money should be spent and with whom it should be spent. What chance do we have in the Virgin Islands when this is the standard? What should we do? Let me hear from you...

Answer the call: Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Does the Virgin Islands Flag Call for Revolution?!

I just posted my voki to the left.

And, as I look at my avatar standing in front of the Virgin Islands flag I couldn't help but remember the meaning - symbolism - of the flag.

In the VI flag, we find a copy of the United States Seal.

If you read from Wikipedia, you will find the following:

The main figure on the obverse (or front) of the seal is the coat of arms of the United States, a bald eagle with its wings outstretched (or "displayed," in heraldic terms). From the eagle's perspective, it holds a bundle of 13 arrows in its left talon, (referring to the 13 original states), and an olive branch, in its right talon, together symbolizing that the United States of America has "a strong desire for peace, but will always be ready for war."

If you look at the Virgin Islands Flag, you will find three (3) arrows in the left talon. Obviously, that refers to the 3 islands (St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix).
And, here's how some have described the symbolism of the eagle:

The eagle represents freedom. Living as he does on the tops of lofty mountains, amid the solitary grandeur of Nature, he has unlimited freedom, whether with strong pinions he sweeps into the valleys below, or upward into the boundless spaces beyond...

Thus the eagle, full of the boundless spirit of freedom, living above the valleys, strong and powerful in his might, has become the national emblem of a country that offers freedom in word and thought and an opportunity for a full and free expansion into the boundless space of the future.

So, what does this mean for us as Virgin Islanders?

Well, one assessment is that the Virgin Islands is to have "a strong desire for peace, but will always be ready for war." And, what war is that? Well, the eagle tells us - "an opportunity for a full and free expansion into the boundless space of the future." Are you ready?

Have we reached the finish line? Do we - as Virgin Islanders - have the freedom to fully expand into the future? Or, are there things that limit us? What do you think?

I'm looking for a Virgin Islanders who are passionate for the Virgin Islands! Are you one of them? If so, subscribe to this blog! Leave us your thoughts!

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

The Role of a Constitution

It has come to my attention that some may not know the role of a constitution and why it is important. And, that's not our fault...but we live in a culture that has detached itself from the American Constitution. So, how can we expect to understand the importance of such a document?

Here's an article that can help you understand the role of a constitution much better than I ever could: http://www.fff.org/freedom/0801a.asp

Now, as he said: "a constitution has a dual purpose: to call into existence a government but, at the same time, to limit the powers of that government." Therefore, without a constitution we could say that a people do not have a government. Or, we could say that, that people do not have any way to limit the powers of government.

We have seen the excesses of our Virgin Islands Government, right? It would be great to have a way to hold the government accountable, right? So, would you not agree that we need a means by which to hold it accountable and limit its power?

Right now, we have no way to hold the Virgin Islands Government accountable. A constitution will give us the tools to ensure that we can control the Government and thus the direction of the Virgin Islands. Do you like the way things are going in the Virgin Islands?

If not...


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Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Do Virgin Islanders Deserve a Constitution?

Ok...I was frustrated before, and those frustrations keep mounting.

I just read an article in the St. Thomas Source about the Virgin Islands Constitutional Convention and their deliberations over public education. You can read the article.

In this article, the Source describes a plenary session of delegates to discuss constitutional provisions to construct the Board of Education in the Virgin Islands. What?! Yes, they are drafting text to outline what the Board of Education should look like - in a constitutional document.

When I presented to the Delegates to Convention, I told them that many of the issues they are fighting over should not - and do not need to - be addressed in a constitution.

One of the delegates - Douglas Brady sets the tone for what has always been my argument with the delegates:

What you just read seems to me like a regulation from the Department of Labor. Which is exactly where a lot of this language should be. This is not constitutional stuff. We should be laying out the framework of the government and then the government in place puts in the fine details. (emphasis mine)

I couldn't agree more. A Constitution is the framework for laws and regulations...it is neither law nor regulation.

The Delegates to the US Constitutional Convention were not government officials. The Framers of the US Constitution were not (originally) legislators; they were Revolutionaries. The delegates to the various State Conventions were also revolutionaries. There were no governments at the times these conventions were being held. Even under Reconstruction, the governments that existed were viewed as Rebel Governments and thus invalid. So, those delegates were also Revolutionaries. These delegates weren't there to craft legislation. They were crafting revolution! They left the legislation to the Government they were founding.

The Delegates to the Virgin Islands Constitutional Convention have yet to realize that they are, in fact, Revolutionaries. Our delegates are caught treating the Constitution as a piece of legislation - worrying about issues that should be dealt with in a legislative body. They are to be founding a new Government - not reforming an old one. Yet, they are at the whim of the VI Legislature that is fundamentally opposed to the success of a Convention. The Legislature may say they are for a VI Constitution, however most of them are surely against it as order and accountability that come from structure (a Constitution) will - possibly - mean less graft and corruption.

One official in Governor de Jongh's cabinet actually told me that he prefers the Virgin Islands to adopt the Revised Organic Act of 1954 as our fundamental document! Yes, one of the people entrusted to lead Virgin Islanders advocates that the Virgin Islands be governed by a document written by Congress - and people with no vested interest in the Virgin Islands. With the Organic Act, it will take an act of Congress to change anything - on the ground - in the Virgin Islands...and we know how quickly that will happen.

Do Virgin Islanders deserve a Constitution? Did Britain write the US Constitution? Did the Federal Government write the Constitution of Delaware, Virginia, Florida, Georgia or any of the fifty states? So, why should the Federal Government write our founding document? As a matter of fact, can we even say that the Virgin Islands have truly been established until we craft our own document?

How can Delegate to Convention expect the Government of the Virgin Islands to support the creation of a document that will curtail their power? I'm not so sure that will happen. Could that be the reason we are now in our Fifth Constitutional Convention? Could that be why this convention is struggling? Just a thought...

Freedom and Liberty are things we must fight for, and they are things that the Government will not give to the people. Freedom comes when people seize the moment and take control of their own destiny. Are you willing to do the work to the freedom of Virgin Islanders?

What do you think about a Constitution for the Virgin Islands? Do we need one? Should we simply adopt the Organic Act, written by Congress? Do you think a Constitution will be of benefit to the Virgin Islands?

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

RNC Convention Recap

Alright, the Convention is over. It was a great experience for numerous reasons. And, I need to be sure I report what you don't hear.

I saw the posting of Meagan Poinski - who was embedded with the Delegation. She did a good job procuring comments from the Delegation. And, I think Virgin Islanders would have also benefited from reading more about how the efforts of the Delegation applied to the Virgin Islands...or not.

There were some of us who were so busy flag-waving and screaming that we didn't make any headway for the Virgin Islands. For some of us, it was simply the benefit of hobnobbing for hobnobbing's sake.

Yet, there were some of us who were there fighting tooth and nail for the Virgin Islands, and have been rubbing elbows with power brokers with the sole purpose of cashing in political capital for the benefit of Virgin Islanders.

In the end, what we as Virgin Islander must understand is that we're getting screwed from both sides. To date, neither the Democrats nor the Republicans have granted us a vote in Congress. To date, neither the Democrats nor the Republicans have enacted a policy agenda to address the myriad problems faced by the Virgin Islands.

We must understand that the situation in the Virgin Islands - our political status - demands that we have Virgin Islanders on both sides. But, those Virgin Islanders must be committed to the prosperity of the Virgin Islands and Virgin Islanders (and that's whether they are Democrat or Republican).

It's time to get serious about this, y'all...our people have waited for Liberty for too long!

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Give Us Our Space - Respect Our Place

Tonight from the RNC, I experienced a metaphor of the quintessential Virgin Islands experience. And, all I can say to the powers that be is:

As we stood in the designated spot for the US Virgin Islands on the Convention Floor, our aream became inundated by the press. Our location was directly in front of the "VIP Section," and the press was hoping to garner great shots of Sarah Palin's family.

So much press crowded around the small area for the Virgin Islands, that we were being pushed out of our space. In addition, the area was so crowded that no one could move in either direction. Security came by to clear the confusion. However instead of moving the press, they decided we needed to make room.

We ended up sharing space designated for the Virgin Islands. Soon, our space was overrun...the press had taken control. There was nothing our small delegation could do about it. There was nothing that anyone else would do to assist our predicament.

Here's the metaphor:

We are a small colony - I mean territory - of the United States. And, just as we were disrespected on the Floor of the RNC, we are disrespected in this Country. Yet - even more strangely - we continue to wait for those who disrespect us to act in our favor!

Well, let me tell you: we will not have the pleasure of their respect until we take it.

It behooves us as Virgin Islanders to "join or die."

We must join together and stand up for our beloved homeland. Because of our apathy, our land is ripe with corruption. Due to that corruption, we are subject to greater and greater encroachments upon our liberty. Because of these offenses, we are forced to seek an existence in a community other than our own.

ENOUGH!

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Virgin Islanders for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Campaign for Liberty and the VI Constitution

Today, I was at the "Rally for the Republic" hosted by Campaign for Liberty.

One of the key ideas hammered upon was that the Constitution was written in order to restrain the Government from infringing upon the rights of the people. Further, it is the restraint of Government that ensures the liberty of the people. And, it's liberty (freedom) that promotes prosperity. Without respect for the Constitution, the rights of the people are ignored and the people become subject to government tyranny and corruption. And, until the people stand up for the Constitution, they will not be able to end the corruption and reclaim the land for the people.

Hmmmm......

I cannot help but think: In the Virgin Islands, we don't even have a constitution! By that standard, we Virgin Islanders have no liberty. We are subject to government tyranny and corruption with no recourse to end the plunder. The Government runs rampant, stealing money here and cutting deals there, while "We the People" - we the Virgin Islanders - are left defenseless.

Maybe that's why we don't have a Constitution? Too many people would be held accountable. Maybe that's why "they" don't want a VI Constitution? It will end their plunder. Maybe that's why we hear nothing about/from/pertaining to the current (delayed/beleaguered) Constitutional Convention? They don't want to become accountable to you.

If we had a constitution, we'd have a framework by which to retake our beloved islands. At this point, a constitution might not even need to be drafted by the "Powers that Be." They are the problem. And, the reason a constitution is not forthcoming as that there are powers trying to find ways to craft a document that will enable them to continue raping our home and our people.

Key dates are upon us people...check this out.

Keep watch, and remain vigilant.

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

The Virgin Islands in the RNC 2008 Platform

The platform section is called, "Working with Americans in the Territories." I present it to you on this blog for your analysis and feedback. Your questions and comments may help me address my comments and questions appropriately, while here at the Convention.

Working with Americans in the Territories

We appreciate the extraordinary sacrifices the men and women of the territories are making to protect our freedom through their service in the U.S. Armed Forces. We welcome greater participation in all aspects of the political process by Americans residing in Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Northern Marians, and Puerto Rico. We affirm their right to seek the full extension of the Constitution, with all the political rights and responsibilities it entails.

We recognize the valuable contributions made by the people of the United States Virgin Islands to the common welfare of the nation, including national defense, and their contributions to the federal treasury in the form of federal excise taxes paid on products produced in the territory.

We support the Native American Samoans' efforts to protect their right to self-government and to preserve their culture and land-tenure system, which fosters self-reliance and strong extended-family values. We support increased local self-government for the United States citizens of the Virgin Islands, and closer cooperation between the local and federal governments to promote private sector-led development and self-sufficiency. We recognize that Guam is a strategically vital U.S. territory, an American fortress in the western Pacific. We affirm our support for the patriotic U.S. citizens of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to achieve greater self-government, an improved federal territorial relationship, new economic development strategies, a strong health care system that meets their needs, and continued political self-determination. We support a review to determine the appropriate eligibility of territories as well as states for Supplemental Security Income and other federal programs.

We support the right of the United States citizens of Puerto Rico to be admitted to the Union as a fully sovereign state after they freely so determine. We recognize that Congress has the final authority to define the constitutionally valid options for Puerto Rico to achieve a permanent non-territorial status with government by consent and full enfranchisement. As long as Puerto Rico is not a state, however, the will of its people regarding their political status should be ascertained by means of a general right of referendum or specific referenda sponsored by the U.S. government.

What does this all mean? Of course, I placed emphasis on those areas noted in bold-type.

1. We affirm their right to seek the full extension of the Constitution, with all the political rights and responsibilities it entails.
   
   To me this means that they support our right to fight for full Constitutional Rights. Yet, there is no definition to what that support will entail. To me, this is not necessarily bad. While they did not clearly state how they will support and what efforts they will support, they also did not clearly state how they will not support and what efforts they will not support.
   
   
2. We support increased local self-government for the United States citizens of the Virgin Islands.
   
   Here, I'm a bit perplexed. I guess increased local self-government could be a constitutional document. Yet again, there are no details to what will be supported and/or what will be opposed.
   
   
3. The last two highlighted points address Guam, the Northern Marianas and Puerto Rico. However, the applications speak volume to the distance we have yet to travel. Their respective situations are addressed with a bit more specifics.

In sum, I feel that these points provide us with an entry-point by which to hold Republicans accountable. What further questions does this plank in the platform spark within you? Does anyone have a copy of the DNC Platform and its plank towards the Virgin Islands/the territories? If so, can you upload it here - or give me the link?

I know most in the VI are Democrats, but do you think it's useful for us as Virgin Islanders to begin working both Parties to see who will be the first to meet our specific - VI - needs?

Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!

Fighting for the VI

At the RNC Convention today in Minnesota, I was interviewed by KCRW 89.9fm (Santa Monica, CA) Producer, Christian Bordal. Tell me what you think!





Virgin Islands for the Virgin Islanders...those at home and those abroad!