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VI UPDATE U.S. Virgin Islands Public Records TRANSCRIPT OF PUBLIC PROCEEDINGS | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole Legislature USVI March 17, 2023 · 4.7 hours · gov Source recording https://youtu.be/DZFgekHReVA Status This is a working transcript produced by machine from a recording of a public proceeding. It is a finding aid, not an official record of the Legislature. Transcribed by VI Update, using OpenAI Whisper large-v3-turbo, run locally. Not reviewed by a person. Reliability Automatic transcription, UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording before relying on it. Speech recognition splits spoken digits and wraps figures mid-number, so a dollar amount, a vote count or a bill number can be wrong in a way that reads as correct. Speakers are not identified: automatic speaker labelling was measured unusable and removed. 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Thank you. 0:32:56 good morning good morning good morning it's a beautiful day in the Virgin Islands I want to say a pleasant good morning this committee of the whole is is hereby called to order one more time great good morning to all present listening and viewing i'm honored today to lead my colleagues in welcoming the girl scouts to future leadership day this week is girl scout week and as part of the future leadership day the legislature will host 23 scouts from grades 4 to 12. these young ladies will have the opportunity to shadow a senator and also present a mock bill having the girl scouts here is especially fitting of course because it's women's history month these girls are tomorrow's leaders and we are all charged to do what we can to build girls of character courage and confidence i'm honored to have here with me today the 0:33:56 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 1 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole senator of the day scout aliyah joseph please give her a round of applause and we are also building citizens through the first-hand experience with the democratic process and parliamentary procedures so i'm delighted to be here this morning and again what we'll do is allow for each of these senators to be able to present um exactly their girl scout that's helping them to do their work on the behalf of Girl Scouts Week as well as Leadership Day. I want to take this opportunity to say that I'm Senator Novell E. Francis Jr. again Senate President and with me today is Aliyah Joseph and I want her to step right into the role and then she'll make some brief comments and then we'll allow for the other Senators to present theirs as well. Just real quickly. Just say hello and good morning. Morning. Morning. What's your name? My name is Aliyah Joseph, a junior girl scout who attends the Niski Moravian School. And I am 10 years old. My hobbies I like to do is play basketball and tennis, collect rocks and shells, and I like to spend time with my family and friends. And I'm also interested in technology. One thing I enjoy about Girl Scout is making things like boats, trucks, and more. 0:36:19 I would like to be, when I grow up, is a IT director, and it means working with computers. My favorite color is blue. And my birthday is September 13th. So you introduced the first senator to speak, and she's recognized. I would like to introduce the vice president, Tessiah Lattin. Just say your name quickly, and then you'll come back. You'll actually close out your advice. What's my name? What's your name here? 0:36:57 My name is Tosaya Lattin. Very well. Very well. At this time, we'll start the round of senators to introduce themselves. And, of course, we'll begin with Senator Alma Francis Heiliger. You're recognized for your one minute. point of point of inquiry to this year go right ahead do we do an introduction or they do the full introduction you could do you can just use them and then I'll allow them okay of course good morning good morning to everyone I would like to introduce my Girl Scout for the day Sylvia Brown she's from Antaly School and I'm going to hand her the mic so she could share with the public a little bit about her. Hello my name is Sylvia Brown. I'm nine years old and I attend Antilles school. I like I like reading. I like soccer. I like to swim. 30 seconds one of my favorite things to do at Girl Scouts is being outdoors um yeah thank you thank you senator de graf recognized for one minute uh thank you mr chair center the graph if you allow me to speak 0:37:40 you could introduce yourself and tell the people who you are and remember where we from okay I am Andrea Connell. I was born in Savannah. My favorite color is blue. My favorite subject is math. And my favorite thing is about Girl Scouts is is the event. 30 seconds. 0:39:33 Thank you, Senator Franklin Johnson. You're recognized for one minute. Good morning to the people of the territory, good morning to all you beautiful Girl Scouts. It's a pleasure being here with you today. I have Ms. Imani Lawrence, Imani Lawrence, and she's going to tell you a lot about her. Go right ahead. My name is Imani Lawrence. I am attending Ricardo Richards Elementary School. I am shadowing Senate Franklin D. Johnson here on the 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, the senator who represents the people. 0:40:09 30 seconds. art my favorite my favorite color is red i love to swim and my favorite my favorite thing about girl scouts is doing experiments with them all right thank you senator johnson senator carrion you're recognized for one minute thank you thank you madam chair i'm delighted to have with me this morning cameron maduro who is shadowing me and she's a senator for today okay miss maduro senator maduro i'm sorry good day my name good day good day my name is cameron maduro i am a fourth grade student at lumaco elementary school and i like to go to the beach and i like to make bracelets 30 seconds do quadrille and more thank you thank you senator carrion senator javon james you're recognized for one minute Thank you, Madam Chair. 0:40:52 I have the esteemed pleasure of introducing your at-large senator, Ms. Kiara Lewis. Good day. My name is Kiara Lewis. I am a fifth grader at Joseph Sibyl Elementary School. Some of my hobbies are drawing, singing, and dancing. My favorite color is purple, and one thing I enjoy about Girl Scouts is building new relationships with new people. Thank you, Senator Donna Fred Gagary, you're recognized for one minute. Thank you and good morning. This morning I have the distinct pleasure of introducing the chair of the committee on budget appropriations and finance miss koshika carabayo good morning my name is koshika carabajo i am 11 years old and a junior in gold scout in fifth grade and my favorite subject is math in my in in my spare time i like to learn 30 seconds in my spare time i like to make gadgets and play with my cats and i can't wait for the debate thank you senator milton potter you're recognized for one minute Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I am honored to have to introduce to you the Chair of the Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure and Planning, Ms. Charlotte Monolinsky. 0:42:44 Good morning. My name is Scarlett and I'm nine years old and I do homeschool. Some of my hobbies are drawing, bird watching, cartwheeling, and soccer. One thing I like about Girl Scouts is the activities and adventures we do. What I want to do when I grow up is I want to work with kids and animals. you senator potter senator maurice james you're 0:44:37 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 2 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole recognized for one minute good good morning virgin islands good morning everyone present uh i am from troop 316 when i was a girl scout and i'm introducing my senator natalia hemingway from troop four four six one zero welcome senator hemingway Thank you. Good morning. My name is Natalia Hemingway. I attend Juanita Gardein School. I am 10 years old. I like singing, art, and cooking. When I grow up, I want to be a veterinarian. Thank you, Senator James. Senator Ray Fonseca, you're recognized for one minute. Thank you, Madam Chair. Blessings. Madam President, I'm sorry, yes, Madam President. I'm pleased to introduce the Honorable Senator Amira Roy A, the chairperson of the Committee on Hospitals, Health, and Human Services. 0:46:07 Senator? Good morning. I am Amira Roy A. I am a junior Girl Scout who attends Joseph Sibley Elementary School. I am 11 years old. My favorite hobbies are painting, cooking, and playing games with my friends. The one thing I enjoy about Girl Scout is how how we always are together and what I want to be, what I want to be when I grow up, is a president. Thank You Senator Fonseca. Next is Senator Dianne Capehart. You're recognized for one minute. 0:46:36 Blessed good morning to all the Girl Scouts. As a former Girl Scouts mom, I am proud to introduce Ms. Wadija, Senator Wadija Knight. Hi, I'm Wadija Knight and I'm nine years old in fourth grade. Juanita Garden School, my favorite animal is dogs. My favorite hobby is movies and to go in an art cave. My favourite subject is math. My favourite food is pizza. And what I want to be when I grow up is a military girl. 0:47:32 I love Girl Scouts. Thank you Senator K. Potts. is senator kenneth gibbons the majority leader you are recognized for one minute thank you uh madam president uh today i have with me in the saint thomas district miss larissa pickering however on saint croix i do have a miss jocelyn lynch and i'd like you to hear from both of them please here you go ready to speak loudly all right my name is larissa pickering i go to joseph sibley school my favorite subject is math my favorite hobby is to go to the 30 seconds i love golf course because it has lots of we have lots of fun thank you to my troop leaders of troop 44503 and thank you to my parents Janelle and La Siwa I love you I love you Also I will be asking my fellow troop members to support an amendment that I will offer today Ms. Jocelyn Lynch Good morning, greetings, ladies and gentlemen, and fellow Girl Scouts. 0:48:43 I am Jazza Lynch, a fourth-grade Girl Scout who attends Ricardo Richards Elementary School. I am nine years old. Today I am representing Troop 44614. I am assuming the role of our major leader and the best senator in the 35th legislature, Senator Kenneth L Gittins. Thank you and have a very happy Future Leadership Day. Thank You Senator Gittins. Next is Senator Carla Joseph, Secretary. You you will be recognized for one minute thank you so much and I have a very anxious Girl Scout with me as a former Girl Scout leader as well as leader of the year it is my esteemed pleasure to introduce to you Miss Daisy Hi, I'm Daisy Motulinski and I'm ten years old. I do homeschool and my favorite things to do are soccer, sailing, tennis, and magic. And my favorite thing about Girl Scouts is learning to be kind. Thank you so much. Thank you, Senator Joseph. 0:50:31 Next is Senator Marvin Blyden, Vice President. You will be recognized for one minute. Thank you, Madam President. It is my pleasure to introduce Tassiah Larten, who chaired the Committee on Housing, Transportation, and Telecommunications. My name is Tessiah Latin. I'm 11 years old. I'm a junior Girl Scout who attends the Niske Moravian School. I like to run, dance, and draw. I would like to be a track athlete when I grow up. Happy Girl Scouts Day, Women's History Month. Thank you Madam President for the time. So I said thank you and welcome to all of you. So thank you all and welcome to the legislature. 0:52:16 Thank you all and welcome to the legislature Virgin Islands. Okay so now you ask please Madam Clerk please read the roll call. madam clerk please read today's agenda madam clerk please read today's agenda senator francis heidegger you recognize your point of personal privilege you recognize senator heigler you're recognized for one minute personal privilege you recognize your point of personal privilege you're recognized for your point of personal privilege i i would like to add that when i grow up i would like to be a teacher thank you thank you madam clerk let me have the roll call madam clerk let me have the roll call Senator Marvin A. Blyden Senator Blyden, present Senator Angel L. Boldquist, Jr. 0:53:13 Present Senator Angel L. Boldquist, Jr. Senator Dianne T. Capehart, present. Senator Capehart, present. Senator Samuel Carrion, present. Senator Carrion is present. Dwayne, or Senator Dwayne M. DeGraff. Present. 0:54:57 Senator DeGraff, present. Senator Ray Forsyka. Present. Senator Forsyka, present. Senator Novell E. Francis, Jr. Senator Francis, Jr., present. Senator Alma Francis Halliger. Halliger. Present. 0:55:40 Senator Halliguer, present. Senator Donna A. Fred Gregory. I'm here. Senator Fred Gregory, present. Senator Kenneth Gittins. Senator Gittins, present. Senator Maurice C. James. Present. 0:56:11 Senator James, present. Senator Javen E. James, senior. Senator James, senior, absent. Senator Franklin D. Johnson. Present. Senator Johnson, present. Senator Carla J. Joseph. Present. Senator Joseph, present. Senator Milton E. Potter. 0:56:50 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 3 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole Present. Senator Potter, present. Madam Chair. There is 40 members present and one member absent. we have a quorum and ready to proceed quorum madam clerk please we have a quorum and ready to proceed madam madam clerk please wait please read today's agenda into the record. The 35th legislator will convene in a Girl Scouts Leadership Day mock committee of the whole hearing to receive testimony on the following bill. Bill number 35-00GS, an act to recognize the month of March as Girl Scouts month in the Virgin Islands of the United States. Invited testifiers. The Honorable Tregenza A. Roach, Esquire, Lieutenant Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands, represented by Samara Santos. Dr. Renee Charswell, Deputy Commissioner, VI Department of Education, represented by Larissa Barron. The Honorable Bossady Bruce, Commissioner, VI Department of Finance, represented by Stephanie Miller. The Honorable Husta E. Encarnacion, Commissioner, VI Department of Health, represented by Latia Gavidon. 0:57:21 The Honorable Kimberly Cosi Gomez, Commissioner, VI Department of Human Services, represented by Rachel Sproff. Carol Thomas Jacobs Esquire, Acton Attorney General, VI Department of Justice, represented by Chanicia Conner. Jennifer C. O'Neill, Director, Office of Management and Budget, represented by Jovanique Sarant. The Honorable Gary A. Malloy, Commissioner, VI Department of Labor, represented by Zai Kelly. 0:59:10 Daryl A. George, Senior, Director, VI Fire and Emergency Medical Services, represented by Anaya Anthony, Lisa Alejandro, Acton Commissioner, VI Department of Property and Procurement, represented by Trinity Connor, Cindy Richardson, Director, Division of Personnel, represented by Jamiah White, Jamiah White. The Honorable Calvert A. White, Commissioner, VI Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation, represented by Janae Demings. Sean Santos, Sr., Chief of Police, VI Department of Police, represented by Star Stapleton. Patrick Farrell, Director, Veterans Affairs, represented by Keandra Waro. 0:59:47 This concludes the reading of today's agenda, Madam President. Thank you, Madam Clerk. Thank you, Madam Clerk. Do you have any correspondences to read into the record? No, Madam President. Okay, please proceed. The Honourable Trazendra A. Roach, represented by Samara Santos. Good morning to all. My name is Samara Santos. On most days I'm a fifth grader attending the Niski Moravian School and a junior scout with Troop 44532. Today, however, I am honored to assume a role of the Honorable Lieutenant Governor of the virgin islands of the united states of america tregenza a roach esquire accompanying me is my chief of staff zahira bell pleasant good morning to all my name is zahira bell on most days i am a fifth grader attending the joseph sibley elementary school and a junior girl scout with Troop 445-03. Today, however, I am honored to assume the role of Attorney Monica Williams Carbone, Chief of Staff to the Honorable Lieutenant Governor of the Virgin Islands of the United States of America, Samara Santos. I serve as the acting governor during the governor's 1:00:42 absence from the territory. Also, as the second highest official, I become the governor if the governor is no longer able to serve the governor of the lieutenant governor is the second highest revenue generator for the divisions that fall under my office are office of the tax assessor office of the tax collector banking insurance and financial regulation corporates corporations and trademarks geospecial information systems or gis notary division passport division recorder of the deeds and vi ship medicare the lieutenant governor also serves as the commissioner of insurance to license and regulate the insurance industry in the Virgin Islands. He also serves as the Chairman of the Banking Board to license and regulate the banking industry in the Virgin Islands. My office recognizes how important the Girl Scouts program is to the territory. In that regard, we can offer support through my various divisions in several ways. Two of those ways are providing an opportunity for the Girl Scouts to to gain community service hours by handling simple but necessary tasks within one of my divisions, allowing the Girl Scouts to use the GIS navigation system for activities and community outreach. 1:02:51 Thank you, Lieutenant Governor. Welcome to the Virgin Islands. The Legislature. The Legislature. Next, we recognize Dr. Renee Chazwell, Deputy Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education, represented by Larica Barron. I am Larissa Barron, a cadet, Girl Scout, who attend C, Adelita Conkroy, in India High School. I am representing Dr. Rachel Oswald, Deputy Commissioner of Curriculum and Instruction. The Virgin Islands Department of Education, VIDE provides a safe and nurturing environment, high quality instruction and continuous support to all students succeed in college and careers as citizens in a globally diverse world. The VIDE embraces all students and empowers them to achieve their fullest potential. I yield to my colleague. Good morning. I am Arianna David, a cadet Girl Scout who attends Calvary Christian Academy School. I am representing Dr. Simra D. Brown of the Virgin Islands Department of Education in the St. Thomas, St. John District. The department's goal is to ensure that each student by the end of kindergarten will be socially, emotionally, and academically prepared for learning success. Each student will meet or exceed their annual targeted growth in core academic subjects. Each student will graduate with technology, career, and personal competencies to succeed in careers, college, and as citizens in a globally diverse world. 1:04:31 I yield to my colleague. I am Kael Correa, a cadet girl scout who attends the Bertha C. Boshelza Middle School. I am Tafan Jergen. I will be representing the St. Thomas St. John District. Three ways, the Virgin Islands Department 1:06:33 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 4 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole education can support Girl Scouts and Bill 35-00GS. Recognize Girl Scout Day in all schools. Provide Girl Scout supplies related to cooking and hiking. Provide a time during flex block in which the Girl Scouts can showcase their skills to VIDE students. Thank you for your time and attention to this important bill. I yield to my colleague. I am Stephanie Miller, a Junior Girl Scout who attends the Joseph J. Gomez Elementary. I am representing 44507. The Department of Finance is the agency that pays all the bills and payroll for the government. Our mission is to provide efficient government financial services to the public and other users by administering and overseeing the laws, regulations relating to the financial operations of both federally funded and local funding of the government. Three ways the Department of Finance can support Girl Scouts and Bill 25-00GS is by advocating for Girl Scouts and all girls, process checks to Girl Scouts quickly, hire Girl Scouts in the future. Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. Thank you, welcome to the legislature of the Virgin Islands. 1:07:47 Next, the... Next, the... That's it. Syng Croy. Syng Croy to introduce the Department of Education. Syng Croy. Syng Croy. Please introduce... Please introduce... The Representative... From Department of Education. From Department of Education. Good morning everyone, I am Nichelle Lindsay, a cadet herself who attends the Lumacal Elementary School. 1:08:38 I am representing the Virgin Islands Department of Education, Ms. Karen Chancellor, the Axel Deputy Superintendent. The Virgin Islands Department of Education, VIDE, provides a safe, adventure environment, high quality instruction, and continuous support so all students succeed in college and careers as citizens in a globally diverse world. The VIDE embraces all students and empowers them to achieve their fullest potential. The department's goals to ensure that each student by the end of the kindergarten will be socially, emotionally, and academically prepared for learning success. Each student will meet or succeed for animal targeted growth and core academic subjects. 1:09:26 Each student will graduate with the technology career and personal competencies to succeed in careers, college and as a citizen in a globally diverse world. Three ways the Department of Education can support Girl Scouts on the bank. 1. BIDE can allow schools to have lunchtime Girl Scouts clubs. 2. Girl Scouts can make presentations at PCA meetings to encourage parents to make their daughters join Girl Scouts. Number three, B-I-D-E could have Girl Scouts as an elective, like music. Thank you. 1:10:17 Thank you. Next representative. All right, so let's switch over. We'll go to a one-minute recess. We got 1 minute recess to exchange the testifiers. 1 minute recess to exchange the testifiers. Thank you. 1:11:15 Thank you. We'll be right back. [2 such phrases repeated 13 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 1:12:24 Thank you. I love you I love you I love you. Thank you. 1:18:54 Out of recess Out of recess Next, we'll continue with the testifiers. Continuing with the testifiers. Next is the Honorable Husta, Commissioner of VI, Department of Health, represented by by Latisha Gibion Tutu Academy. 1:21:24 I am Latia Gabbidon, but today I am serving as Commissioner Husta Encarnacion. Today I have with me Demiah Henley, representing Assistant Commissioner Dr. Nicole Sims. The Department of Health regulates health facilities to make sure they provide safe care and keep things in order, like businesses and restaurants, and keep them clean. We believe that all Virgin Islanders and visitors must receive the same level and the best care possible. We deliver programs to children from infants to seniors. One of our highest priorities is taking care of those with behavior health concerns. The Department of Health collects data and we make changes to improve services in the Virgin Islands. The Department of Health can help and support Girl Scouts by doing a fundraiser. We can also look at some of the Girl Scouts grants and work with the Girl Scouts on programs and badges that support health care. The Department of Health could also support the Girl Scouts by continuing a membership program so more Girl Scouts could visit the Department of Health for a day. The Department of Health commits to visiting troops becoming friends to the Girl 1:22:20 Scouts and teaching them about growing up and healthy lifestyle. I yield to my colleague. Next. My name is Maya Henley. I am a junior Girl Scout that attends the Wesleyan Academy School. I am in fourth grade. Today I am representing the Virgin Islands Department of Health. The Virgin Islands Department of Health strives to improve the health and social well-being of all people living in the U.S. Virgin Islands. My department's goal is to reduce health risk, improve access to quality healthcare, and enforce health standards. Three ways the Virgin Islands Department of Health can support Girl Scouts and build 3500GS. Develop revolving campaigns that highlight Girl Scouts and focus on the importance of girls' mental and emotional wellness. Work closely with the organization to design a Girl Scout Behavioral Health Badge. Develop local mentorship programs to expose young girls to different careers in the public health field. Support Girl Scouts Outreach, an after-school community-based group pushing the importance of health and wellness from a young age. The program will focus on having a healthy mind and body. Thank you. Thank you for your time and 1:24:12 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 5 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole attention to Bill 3500GS. It is important that the entire community continues to support the Girl Scouts in their efforts to continue to develop their members of their members as a future leaders welcome do we have a representative for health on St. Croix introduce yourself good morning I am Madison Davis a junior Girl Scout who attends the Church of God Holiness Academy School. I am representing Department of Health. I will be reading from Community Health Assessment about the USVI Department of Health. The USVI Department of Health derives its authority to provide public health services to the people of the Virgin Islands from Title III, Title 19, and Title 27 of the Virgin Islands Code. The Department of Health functions as both the state health regulatory agency and the territorial public health agency for the USVI. In addition to providing oversight of 26 public health programs as the lead agency for emergency services function 8 the department also oversees hospitals during a declared emergency or disaster happy Girl Scouts future leadership day thank you thank you 1:26:12 welcome next next the Honorable Kimberly Cosi Gomez commissioner VI Department of Human Services represented by Rachel's Sprawl Calvary Baptist I am Rachel Sprouth a 13-year-old cut-out Girl Scout who attends the Calvary Christian Academy School I am representing the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services as Commissioner for the day on behalf of Commissioner Kimberly Cosi Gomez. As we declare March Girl Scout Month let's remember that it is so that is also Social Work Month and celebrate our wonderful social workers because as this year's theme says social work breaks barriers. The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services exists to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families with diverse social service needs in our community in times of national uncertainty and hardship we act as a safe net a safety net and work to inspire hope and positive change through non-judgmental quality delivery of needed services and resources it is hoped that the department's support will empower those served for self-sufficiency our agency's mission and vision aligned with the promise made by the girl scouts throughout the nation every day that promise declares on my honor i will try to serve god and my country to help people at all times and to live by the girl scout law as an example the department was recently awarded 42 million dollars to build eight new head start facilities in a territory that means more young minds will be educated and more future girl scouts are in the making three ways the virgin islands department of human services can support girl scouts and the bill number 35-00gs the department can serve as a resource for girls interested in community service 1:28:11 opportunities it can serve as an information resource for girls interested in careers and service and it can and it can highlight girl scout service initiatives during the month of march thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill thank you do we have a representative on st croix No, Madam Chair. 1:30:28 Okay, next. Carol Thomas Jacobs, Exquire, Acting Attorney General, V.I. Department of Justice. Represented by Trinesia Kananiski Moravian School. Good morning, I mean, good afternoon, Senate President Novo E. Francis Jr., other senators of the 35th legislature, legislative staff, and those of you listening and viewing today's legislative hearing. My name is Trinesia Conner, Cadet Girl Scout Troop 44533, and I am the Virgin Islands Attorney General. I am honored to appear before you today, USVI Girl Scouts Future Leadership Day to present testimony on the Department of Justice. 1:31:00 The department consists of numerous divisions including the Criminal Division, Civil Division, Solicitor General Division, the Paternity and Child Support Division, Medical Examiner's Office, Special Investigation Division, and the Division of Gaming Enforcement. To fulfill the department's mission, this mission includes but is not limited to the prosecution of all criminal violations of the Virgin Islands Code. 1:31:56 To represent the government in all civil actions brought against it or on its behalf provide efficient and effective financial child support and access service in the entrance of children of the Virgin Islands, and represent the government of the appeals process either before the Virgin Islands Supreme Court or the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, whether it be a criminal prosecutor trying a defendant on charges of murder and mayhem, a civil attorney fighting for a multimillion-dollar lawsuit on behalf of the government of the Virgin Islands, or or a member of the Paternity and Child Support Division to ensure a young child's financial needs are met. The attorneys and support staff of the Department of Justice have hours and will continue to work tirelessly for the people of the Virgin Islands. The Department supports Bill number 35-006S, I mean, 00GS. 1:32:31 This concludes my formal testimony and I am now available for any questions the members of the committee may have. What else would you say? Thank you, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. You recognize your point of information. Senator Blyden, you recognize your point of information. Senator Blyden, you recognize your point of information. Senator Blyden, we recognize your point of information. through the chair can we get a point of can we get can we have a copy of the testimonies please yes madam clerk please abstain the a copy of the and testimonies, and circulate to each senator. Thank you. Thank you. 1:33:39 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 6 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole To respond, to what? Next we have, Jennifer O'Neill, Director Office of Management and Budget, represented by Jovanik Sarant, Niski Moravian School. Good day, Senate President, other members of the 35th Legislature, commissioners, agency heads, fellow Girl Scouts, and members of the viewing and listening audience. I am Jovenique Sarant, a junior Girl Scout who attends the Niski Meravian School. Today, I am Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Director Ms. Jennifer O'Neill. 1:34:37 With a core mission to improve public services and a vision of transferring government to performance. OMB is the Virgin Islands source of credible financial information and management assistance for departments and agencies. We strive to provide greater details to the public and annual budget process, information about federal grants and continuous improvement to agency performance. The Office of Management and Budget provides ongoing transparent financial analysis and management support to the public, the governor, the legislature and departments and agencies. Our performance goals are to increase the timeliness, quality of Kyiv's financial reports, reduce overall grants and repeat audit findings and enhance financial management practices. There are three ways that OMB can support the Girl Scouts and bill number 35-00GS. 1:35:37 One, OMB can support the Girl Scouts by teaching financial literacy. Two, OMB employees can help young girls by serving as mentors or role models. Three, OMB can also help Girl Scouts by providing resources through grants to help carry out our programs. Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. I yield to my colleague. Thank you. 1:36:50 This time we'll go back to St. Croix. To recognize the representative from the Department of Education. To recognize the Department of Education. Lachelle Lindsay. Lachelle Lindsay. What was it? Is Lindsay available? 1:37:25 Is Ms. Lindsay available? Department of Finance, Beryl Marquise. Department of Finance, Beryl Marquise. Good morning. I am Beryl Marquise, a fifth grader junior girl scout who attends Juanita F. Gardin Elementary School. I am representing Department of Finance. The Department of Finance administers and oversees the laws and regulations relating to the financial operations of both federal and local founding for the government of the Virgin Islands. I oversee the Treasury Division as well as the Human Resources Division. I also oversee the St. Croix operation Madam Chair. Three ways is Department of Finance can support Girl Scout and Bill 3500GS. 1:38:01 Number one, teach financial literacy on how to manage your money. Number two, create a Girl Scout fund to ensure timely processing. Number three, advocate for a Girl Scout clubhouse. Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. 1:39:25 Thank you. Thank you, Beryl McQuiz. Next, we have the Honorable Gary A. Molloy, Commissioner VI, Department of Labor, represented by Zai Kelly, Joseph Sibley Elementary School. Good day, I am Zai Kelly, a Junior Girl Scout at Joseph Sibley Elementary School, Troop 44503. I am representing Commissioner Gary Malloy at the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Labor. The Department of Labor's mission is to administer effective programs and services designed to develop, protect, and maintain a viable workforce. This is done by building partnerships with government agencies, businesses, community organizations, and other stakeholders. 1:39:53 Three ways the Department of Labor can support Girl Scouts and Bill 3500GSR. One, collaborate with the Girl Scouts on initiatives that promote gender equality in the workplace. Two, develop programs that teach young ladies essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and entrepreneurship. Three, provide guidance on labor laws and regulations related to hiring practices, minimum wage, and overtime pay. Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. Thank you so much. 1:40:52 At this time, we will take a one minute recess does it change our testifiers? We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. I'll see you next time. Thank you. Thank you. 1:41:33 Let's go. so Thank you. Thank you. 1:45:06 guitar solo Thank you. Thank you. 1:46:50 Thank you. We are at a recess. At this time, we are extremely honored to have Governor Albert Bryan Jr. to the legislature of the Virgin Islands. 1:48:20 Welcome, Governor. Welcome, Governor. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 1:49:19 good afternoon to our colleagues in St. Croix I've never been in the chambers in St. Croix looks who's over there oh there we go thank you very much again welcome to the governor at this time we'll stand in recess for 30 minutes we'll stand in recess for 30 minutes for lunch Transcription by CastingWords Thank you. 1:51:19 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 7 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole Safely, altered. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. I love you. Thank you. Let's go. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. I love you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. from between Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Nothing come from between us We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. Thank you. and can come between us. We'll be right back. Let's get started. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Let's get started. Thank you. 1:53:16 We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. 2:51:46 We'll be right back. Oh, oh, oh, oh Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. 2:54:16 We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. We'll be right back. 2:56:46 Thank you. Thank you. we are out of recess I trust everyone that I trust that everyone had a good lunch we will continue with the testimonies next VI the police department represented by Star Stapleton Homeschooled. 2:58:46 Is Ms. Stapleton available? St. Thomas may proceed. 3:00:35 Good morning everyone. My name is Camille Boyce, a cadet in the Moravian Troop 44533 Girl Scouts who attend the Atalita Cancroy Intermediate and Junior High School. I am representing Chief Stephen Phillips of the Virgin Islands Police Department. Good afternoon, I am Sandrine Joseph, a senior in the Pirate Gang Troop 44516 Scout, Girl Scout, who attends the Shawet Amalia High School. I am representing Assistant Commissioner of Police in the Virgin Islands Police Department, Mario Brooks. 3:01:12 Do you have testimony? No. Next. Daryl A. George Sr. Director of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, represented by Anaya Anthony. Annalita Conkroy in junior high school. Good morning, I am Anna. Good morning, good afternoon. 3:01:58 The VI Fire and Emergency Medical Services provide 24 hour response for emergencies such as fire, medical emergencies and public service assistance. We pride ourselves on providing the highest level of of service and protection to the people of the virgin islands through rapid responses inspect and eliminate of fire hazards the vi fire and ems can play a role in supporting the girl Scouts US legislation billed 35,000 Girl Scouts, which is important of providing a safe, encouraged and empowering environment for the girls to explore, take on challenge and build communities and develop essential life skills in many ways. 3:02:40 Our office can support the Girl Scouts by offering advice on training, education, and professional development for the generation of firefighters and EMS personnel in the Virgin Islands. Thank you. next good afternoon I am Morgan Richardson a junior girl scout who attends All Saints Cathedral School I am assuming the role of mr. Clarence Stevenson fire chief on the district of st. John and St. Thomas in this role I work closely with the deputy deputy chief chiefs on st. Thomas and st. John to make sure the department is prepared to respond to emergencies. We also develop firefighting strategies and resource plans. We can support the we can support the Girl Scout Bill 3500GS by working closely with the Girl Scouts to cultivate the confidence character and leadership skills necessary to success in any industry thank you for your time and I yield to my colleague next good afternoon I'm I am Nyla Banterpool a junior Girl Scout who attends All Saints Cathedral School I am assuming the role of mr. Victor Adams EMS chief of st. Thomas st. John district in the US Virgin Islands in my role I look out for the delivery of emergency medical services. I ensure that the department is appropriately staffed with necessary equipment and personnel. Our office can support the Girl Scouts by inspiring the Girl Scouts to become active and engaged members of their communities. 3:03:49 I yield to my colleague. Good afternoon, I am Jessanie Vasquez, a Junior Girl Scout, who attends the Joseph Sibley Elementary School. I am representing Mr. Eustace Grant Jr., Deputy Chief of Operations of St. Thomas. The deputy chief of operation has control over daily operation of the VI FEBs. 3:05:56 One of the ways to support Girl Scouts and the bill 35 is showing commitment to service and civic engagement by participation in community events such as Future Leadership Day. I yield to my colleague. St. Croix, Jamelia Williams. 3:06:35 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 8 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole I am Jamelia Williams, 11th grade Ambassador Girl Scout who attends the St. Croix Educational Complex High School. I am representing the Assistant Director of Fires, Antonio Stiget. The VI Fire and Emergency Medical Services provides 24-hour response for emergencies such as fires, medical emergencies, and public service assistance. We pride ourselves on providing the highest level of service and protection to the people of the Virgin Islands through rapid response, inspection, and the elimination of fire hazards. The VI Fire and EMS can play a vital role in supporting the Girl Scout USA Legislation Bill Number 35-00-GIRSA, which emphasizes the importance of providing a safe, encouraging, and empowering environment for the girls to explore, take on challenges, and build communities. And to develop essential life skills in many ways. The three ways this agencies as organization can support Girl Scouts is by providing an installing role model for young girls demonstrating the core values of courage, compassion, and leadership. Two, they can offer advice on training, educational, professional development, preparing the next generation of firefighters and EMS personnel. Last reason, through the participation community service such as Future Leadership Day, this can illustrate a commitment to service and civic engagement, inspiring young girls to become active and engage members of their community. Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. I yield to my colleague. 3:07:10 Thank you. Hannah Bronstein. Good afternoon, my name is Hannah Bronstein, a 7th grade cadet who attends the Pearl B. Larson School. Today, I am assuming the role of EMS Chief Robert Bryan. The office can support the Girl Scouts by collaborating with the Girl Scouts to provide workshops and programs that emphasize safety, emergency preparedness, and other valuable life skills. And I yield to my colleague. Thank you. Next is Alyssa Acosta. 3:08:41 Good afternoon. I am Alyssa Acosta, a seventh grade cadet Girl Scout who attends the Good Hope Country Day School. I am representing the role of Fire Chief Clover Titus I'm sorry by providing invaluable mentorship oh yeah the office supports the Girl Scouts by providing invaluable mentorship and guidance the Girl Scouts were interested in pursuing careers in the field of emergency and Public Services. Now I yield to my colleague. Thank you, Makayla Walcott. Good day. I am Makayla Walcott, a seventh grade cadet Girl Scout who attends John H. Woodson junior high school. Today I am assuming the role of deputy fire chief of Operations, Paul Christian. Our office can support the Girl Scouts by empowering the girls to become leaders in their communities and make a positive difference in the world around them. I yield to my colleague and stand ready to respond to all your questions. 3:09:21 Thank you. Anyone else? Lisa Anjaldro, Acting Commissioner, VI Department of Property and Procurement, represented by Trinity Connor-Nisky Moravian School. Good afternoon. I am Trinity Connor, a Sasquare Cadet Girl Scout who attends Niske Moravian School. 3:10:44 I am representing Acting Commissioner Elisa M. Andrew of the Department of Property and Procurement. DPP is representable for the accusation of management of all goods and services. The management of the government's central stores and warehouses and fixed assets, processes all contracts for the executive branch department, agencies, boards and commissions, acquires and manages the executive branch vehicle fleet, acquires all real estate and manages the executive branch real estate operations manages space management leases for department and agencies and lastly manage the government's print shop services the central store warehouses can wait three ways department of property and procurement can support Girl Scouts and bill number 3500GS. 3:11:19 The central store warehouses can be made available as done in the past to temporarily store inventory for the Girl Scout troops, especially during their annual Girl Scout cookie sales. Our transportation division stands ready and willing to assist with transportation to and from annual events by offering available vehicles from the GVI fleet. The Division of Procurement offers its assistance for any contract and agreement related issues. The Division can also assist other agencies that may submit sponsorship agreements to support the Girl Scout annual month. 3:12:41 Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. Thank you. Do we have anybody from St. Croix? One minute recess for the final round of testimonies. Thank you. Thank you. We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. 3:13:34 We are out of recess. At this time, we will hear from Tishana, Freddie Mon, representing the government house. St. Croix. 3:16:28 Good afternoon. I am Trishana Freddieman, a fifth-grade junior Girl Scout who attends the Juanita Garden Elementary School. I am representing Carl Knight Chief of Staff at the Government House. The Chief of Staff discusses with all the governor's staff and make sure all of the employees what they're supposed to do three ways chief chief of staff at the government house can support Girl Scouts and a bill they can help and events events for Girl Scouts too they can help provide equipment for the Girl Scouts three they can ensure bill three five zero zero GS is signed by the governor thank you for your time to listen to me about this very important bill the office of the governor stands ready to respond to your questions thank you Next, I'll go to Cindy Richardson, Director, Division of Personnel, represented by Jahima White-Joseph Sibley Elementary School. 3:16:58 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 9 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole Good day, Senate President Nouvelle Francis, other senators of the 35th legislature, legislative staff, my fellow Girl Scouts, and listening and viewing audience. I am Jahima White, an 11-year-old Girl Scout representing Troop No. 44533, who attends the Joseph Sibley School. I am representing Ms. Cindy Richardson, Director for the Division of Personnel. With me today is Mrs. Florine Audain-Hassel, Assistant Director. The Division of Personnel is in support of Bill number 35-00GS, an act to recognize the month of March as Girl Scout month in the Virgin Islands of the United States. The Division of Personnel is the human resources arm of the government. We provide services to all departments, agencies, and branches of government. We are also tasked with responsibilities as mandated in the Virgin Islands Code Title III, Chapter 25, Sections 451 to 667, as well as the personnel rules and regulations. Our responsibilities also include governing the appointment, promotion, transfer, removal, discipline, training and overseeing the health insurance of the officers and employees of the government. The three ways the Division of Personnel can support Girl Scouts and Bill 35-00GS is by assisting in the various community service efforts, mentorship, having a presence during Girl Scouts Month by assisting in workshops to talk about career planning and exploration, dressing for success, and the importance of having basic workplace skills. in closing today i mean in closing thank you for your time and support of this very important bill on my honor i will try to serve god and my country to help people at all times 3:18:35 and to live by the girl scout law this concludes my testimony thank you Next, the Honorable Calvert A. White Commissioner, VI Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation. Represented by Jenny Demins, Calvary Baptist. One, two, one, two. 3:20:51 Mike. My name is Jenae Demons, a God Scout Cadet in Troop 445-07. Today I am the first female commissioner of the Department of Sports Park and Recreation. Currently I am in the sixth grade at Calbee Christian Academy. Under Title III, Chapter 18 of the United States Virgin Islands Code, the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation administers public recreation programs within the community and elsewhere. In the United States Virgin Islands, DSPR organize youth sports leagues, maintain parks, recreation areas and sports complex for the public use and enjoyment promotes physical fitness and is responsible for purification programs our mission is to promote high quality diverse and accessible program services and facilities that enhance the quality of life for our ages cultures and abilities. DSPR vision is to improve our community through their experiences at our park, facilities, programs and special events. DSPR continues to the territory's economic growth and development through the rental fees for our parks and facilities for local events. the department i oversee has a budget over 10 million dollars i am responsible for 120 employees those employees are separated into three divergence the divisions of sports and recreation develops and promotes diverse sports and recreational programs the The Division of Facilities, Parks, and Open Spaces oversees the maintenance of facilities, public parks, beaches, open spaces, and recreational areas. The Office of the Commissioner administers human resources, business utilities, and developed capital projects as the Commissioner of the Department of sports parks and recreation the agency that oversees many of our youth programs iPhone support bill number three five zero zero G G s and pledge my support by doing three things yes we always sponsor a Girl Scout cookie drive by allowing the Girl Scouts to set up tables and tents at DSP our sporting activities this will enable our Girl Scouts to sell their cookies and bring awareness to the Girl Scout program offer the opportunity for Girl Scout members to volunteer at DSP our events assisting them in obtaining their required 100 community service hours by their senior year and sponsor and adopt a park program where Gauss girls will engage in a 3:21:33 annual beautification projects and it is designated park on each island this service project is to enhance the beauty of the island and increase community pride a Gauss girl mural or come or sign will be placed at this park to celebrate the girl scouts commitment to to the community and to brand the park by as adopt adopt adopted by the girl scouts of the virgin islands every year dsbr will fund a r girls funding at the park where girls girls can engage in sports games and compete for prizes thank you next is patrick farrell farrell director veterans affair represented by cayandra warrell good day to all i am kiandra warrell a junior girl scout with troop four four five three two who attends both evan e milanabowski elementary school i am representing the office of veterans Affairs, Director Patrick D. Farrell. The mission of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs is to honour the commitment of the Virgin Islanders who rose to the challenge of wearing our national military uniform, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, by counting to advocate on their behalf resulting in the enhancement of their quality of life and by striving to ensure that they receive all their entitled service and benefits. The Office of Veterans Affairs support the Girl Scouts and Bill Number 35-00GS. The Office of Veterans Affairs provides the opportunity for Girl Scouts to participate in the annual Memorial and Veterans Day parades. parades. The Office of Veterans Affairs can support the Girl Scouts if they need to have a veteran service as mentors. Our veterans can share whatever skills they have with the Girl 3:25:16 Scouts during a one-day workshop. The Office of Veterans Affairs can support a workday experience with different agencies including the military. The Girl Scouts are an important organization that teaches young people's life skills, respect for their community, and they are always prepared to support our veterans in the best way for the Girl Scouts to 3:28:18 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 10 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole serve their community by serving the veterans who provided themselves service to our community. I would be the first female veteran, the first female director. Thank you for your time and attention to this very important bill. Thank you. Thank you for all our testimonies. Our senators are supported by a very competent central staff. Next. Next. Legal counsel. Legal counsel. Good afternoon. Good afternoon. It is my pleasure to introduce Ms. Olivia Thomas, who is a fifth grader of the Calvary Christian Academy. 3:29:37 Greetings, my name is Olivia Thomas, I am 9 years old, I am in 5th grade and I love the color pink. My hobbies are drawing, playing with friends and doing sports and singing. I want, I want to be a doctor and a secret agent when I grow up. I attend Calvary and I love, and I love arts and arts girl scout. I am representing Chief Counsel and Moss Carter Junior Esquire. I am shadowing Nadi Sekou, Assistant Legal Counsel. I am hungry and never mind that part. Chief Reporter. 3:30:15 Good afternoon. My name is Natalia Munoz and I am going to allow our reporter who is busy typing away to introduce herself so you can take a recess from typing and introduce yourself. I'll write for you. Afternoon. My name is Hishana Liverpool. I'm a 9th grade senior in the Paragang, troop number 44516, who attends Charlotte Amali High School. I am 14 years old. My hobbies are cooking, baking and drawing. One thing that I enjoy about Girl Scouts, I enjoy the fun activities. My future aspirations that I would like to do when I grow up, I would like to be a restaurant owner and a chef. The record never stops. 3:31:28 Thank you. Next, Post Auditor. Good afternoon. I am Vincent Samuel and I am the Legislative Post Auditor. I am happy to present you an awesome Post Auditor. Very, probably even more, definitely more attractive than I am. Hello. Hello. I am Shadea Coburn, and today I am the post-editor. On my free time, I like to play with my dogs, cook, and my favorite color is blue. I attend Joseph Sibley Elementary School, and I like Girl Scouts because one of the activities we... because of the activities we get to do. I was born and raised in St. Thomas, and again, I am the post editor. Thank you. Next, we go to journal. 3:32:30 Good afternoon. My name is Evan Antoine, I'm a ninth grader, senior, in Paragang, troop number 44516, scout who attends the Shots of Mali High School. I am 14 years old. My hobbies are reading, baking, and cooking. One thing I enjoy about Girl Scouts is to travel. My future aspirations are still unknown. Next, Archive and Timekeeper. Good afternoon. My name is Jenica Jadone. I am a ninth grade senior in the Pirate Gang, troop number 44516, Girl Scout, who attends Charlotte Amali High School. I am 14 years old. My hobbies are singing, dancing, cooking, and reading. I enjoy the benefits I receive that can help me through school and college. I would like to be a business owner slash corporate lawyer in the future. 3:33:48 Thank you. Thank you. Other one? Other areas. Other areas are protocol, security, media, and transportation. At this time, colleagues, you have heard all the testimonies on Bill No. 35-00GS. Now we will go to a one-minute debate time. 3:34:49 Senator Francis Heiliger, you recognize for your one minute. Senator Francis Heiliger, you recognize for your one minute. Senator Francis Heidegger, you are recognized for your one minute. Good afternoon to your colleagues. Good afternoon. My colleagues. To my colleagues. To the testifiers. To the testifiers. Staff and the people of the territory. Staff and the people of the territory. My first question. 3:35:26 My first question is how, oh, say this one? Yeah, okay. To the Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation, what are your thoughts on possibly having a day designated to playing sports during Girl Scouts Month? 30 seconds. Thank you. 3:35:54 Mr. President, please hold my time. Mr. President, please hold my time. Mr. President, please hold my time. Please hold my time. Timekeeper, please hold her time. 3:36:30 as the assistant commissioner for the department of sports park and recreation And as the department that oversees many of the youth programs in the territory, DSPR will definitely look into organizing a fun day for the Girl Scouts. 3:37:15 Just tell them why you support them. Time. Just tell them thank you for the additional time. And that's it. Thank you for the additional time. You're welcome. Next, we go to Senator Johnson. You're recognized for one minute. Question for Commissioner Calvert-White. What is going on with the Vincent F. Mason in the pool in Frederickset, St. Croix. 3:38:00 The Girl Scouts would like to go swimming. Commissioner, may I have the rest of the day off? She said no, so you're going to have to answer this question. No? 30 seconds. the boss tell me the answer we are finalizing a supplemental contract and as that is finalized the construction will start back on the vincent mason pool mr president may we be excused thank you time thank you thank you senator Johnson the graph you recognize you senator D graph here recognized for your one minute thank you I wanted to asks, what college degrees do you have to get where you are today? 3:38:48 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 11 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole Deandra. what college degrees do you have to get where you are today what college degrees do you have to get where you are today I don't have a college degree but I have military experience thank you very much would you like to respond Senator Carrion, you are recognized for one minute. Hi, to add on to Mrs. James over there, I want to, I would like to, I would represent the Department of Education for the school lunches what can we do to improve this the school lunches here on St. Croix 3:40:19 30 seconds St. Croix, Department of Education, you may respond. To teach our cooks, we can also continue to do more workshops and have surveys for students to share what they like. Thank you, one more question, more activities not only in the private schools but more in public schools like maybe a food stand, a snack stand because I know they're in free will. 3:42:35 they have one also like I was I was speaking to my principal about that too and thank you that that is a very good suggestion and we do welcome all the suggestions that these young ladies have because they're the ones that inspire us at the same time we have to be careful when we do snack stands and food sales because we have the school lunch program and certain activities would be a violation so under certain conditions we can get that done and you definitely need to continue to share those ideas with your principal and feel free to either email or write a letter to the department to let us know what other good ideas you have that we can try to employ. Thank you. Thank you. Senator Bulkus you are recognized for one minute. As your atlas senator I rise in favor of bill number 35.00GS and act to recognize the month of March as Girl Scouts Month in the Virgin Islands of the United States. We must continue to recognize, support, and empower our young women to attain their goals and change the world in the process. Thank you, Madam President, for the time. Thank you. Thank you. 3:43:42 Next we go, Senator Fred Gregory, you are recognized for one minute. I rise in support or I rise as support or bill 35- Dash 005 Girl Scout Week is recognized nationally from March 12 to 18. Recognizing March as Girl Scout Month in the USVI aligns with national recognitions. 3:45:23 The bill recognizes the long history of Girl Scouts program provide a safe and exciting place for young girls to empower themselves. Cultivant talents develop a sense of sisterhood and justice and increases service engagement time. Finish up, finish up, colleagues. 3:46:24 Colleagues, I ask that you support the bill. Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, sir, thank you. Thank you. Next, we go to Senator Potter. You are recognized for one minute. Good afternoon colleagues, I rise in support of bill number 35-00GS, thank you. Thank you, thank you Senator Potter. Next we have Senator Maurice James, St. Croix, you are recognized for one minute. 3:46:58 This question is for the Commissioner of Parks. When is Kramer's Park going to open so Girl Scouts can have picnics up there? Repeat the question please. When is Kramer's Park going to open so Girl Scouts can have picnics up there? Commissioner Parks Before the end of the summer Before the end of the summer Thank you, Senator Marine James Next is Senator Ray Fonseca. You are recognized for one minute. The Girl Scout moment was founded on March 12, 1912, in Savannah, Georgia, by Juliette Gordon. 3:48:00 low whose life mission was to build girls of courage confidence and character to make the world a better place at the at the appropriate time I will vote to support this bill 30 seconds this bill number 45-0-0-G-S. Thank you. Next we have Senator Diane K. Potts, you are recognized for one minute. 3:49:31 Good afternoon colonies, good afternoon everyone. This question is for Government House. What kind of activity, what kind of activities of, of, of, can, can your, what kind of activities Can government house in the month of March to support for Scout month? Who is the question for? 3:50:20 What kind of activities can government house host for Girl Scout month? Anything you can. Each day, parade. Um, we're planning a parade for Girl Scouts next year, and we hope all the Girl Scouts can come for the parade. 3:51:17 Thank you. Thank you. Next is Senator Gittins. You will be recognized for one minute. St. Croix, Ms. Lynch. Why are we saying that teachers have good income, but when a child asks for something, they say they're broke? Should teachers get paid more? My question is for the Department of Education. 3:51:56 I was trying to figure out if you were saying for teachers and students or for teachers and their children. Well, the teachers are not given money to purchase items for their classrooms. And so that's probably why when a student asks for something, he or she is broke and perhaps finance or the government needs to consider giving teachers some classroom money that would be awesome thank you good afternoon to all commissioners of the department of sports parks and and Recreation and Director of Veterans Affairs. Would you support having a Veterans Girl Scouts Park in both districts? Also colleagues, remember that I will offer an amendment to the bill. 3:52:42 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 12 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole So her question was, would you support having a Veterans Girl Scouts Park in both districts? 30 seconds. The Office of Veterans Affairs would support the park once the land is identified. Thank you. 3:53:54 Time. Time. Remember what you said in your testimony? You don't remember? So just tell him we're going to beautify one of the facts and then dedicate it to the girls. Go ahead. No? No? Okay. All right. So, as the commissioner stated in her testimony, one of the things that sports parks would like to do to help the Girl Scouts is have a beautification project. Whatever park is designated, we would then put up a Girl Scout sign identifying that that park was dedicated to the Girl Scouts. 3:54:32 Thank you. Thank you. You didn't answer my question, but thank you. Next is Senator Joseph. You're recognized. You're recognized for one minute. Good afternoon, everyone. 3:55:25 Thank you, Madam. My question is to the Division of Personnel. You talked about the Girl Scout promise. What about the Girl Scout law? 30 seconds the mic is off okay would you like me to say the law I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout. Thank you. 3:55:57 Thank you. thank you thank you time next Senator Blyden you'll be point of information Senator Heidegger I would like to put on the record that as a senator I support Bill 35-00GS. Girl Scouts have been around for 111 years. Girl Scouts have positively shaped the character of girls like me in this community. It has showed us that we are strong, independent, and confident. In Girl Scouts, I have built sisterhoods that will last a lifetime. Again, I support Bill 35-00GS and I will vote in the affirmative at the appropriate time. 3:57:07 Thank you for this opportunity. Thank you. Next is Senator Blyden. You will be recognized for one minute. Thank you, Madam President. Good afternoon to my colleagues, the listening and viewing audiences. And I rise in support of this bill. My question is to Division of Personal. Miss White, can you get extra points on your application when you're a Girl Scout? 3:58:21 We're going to work on making that happen for all the Girl Scouts. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for your response. And thank you, Madam President, for the time. If we could designate the Girl Scouts in the Girl Scout week when there's a holiday. and that's the Division of Personnel. Please repeat the question. 3:59:01 Thursday of Girls' Call Week has a holiday. Doesn't hit the week, the Thursday of the week of Girls' Call Week has a holiday. Does the Girls' Call Week of Thursday has a holiday? Yeah, I have a holiday. I believe so but we'll look into it thank you thank you this concludes our debate time this concludes all debate time madam clerk please call out the the bill an act amending bill number 35 one second madam clerk one second before we do that we have two individuals in this St. Croix district that still need to speak Ms. Starr Stapleton quickly you're recognized for you one minute hi I'm star staple 10 I am star staple 10 and today I was at a event learning plants today I was at town making sure everything was safe and and I had a great day oh and I'm representing Deputy Chief Cornelius Journal on Sincroi 3:59:51 Hi, I am Nylee Ponce, a junior girl scout who attends the Eulalie R. R. P.K. 8 school. I am representing the 35th legislator as clerk. The legislature creates, removes, and changes laws to make the island safer and better for everyone. The legislature also provides money to support government operations, approve appointments, and works closely with the executive and judicial branches of government. Thank you and happy Girl Scout Leadership Day. 4:01:52 Thank you. At this time, we will take a two-minute recess and come back and rise back into session. The committee stands at recess for two minutes. [3 such phrases repeated 20 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 4:02:41 We'll be right back. Point of order, Madam President, based on rule 324 of the rule of the 31st legislature of the Virgin Islands, we cannot amend or vote on this bill before us. Madam President, I request that we rise out of the committee of the whole and go into session in order to amend and move this bill forward. 4:12:04 The rule is out of order, that's what we've discussed right before we see this. Go ahead. What is it? Out of order. The motion is out of order. The motion is out of order. Hit the gobble, hit the gobble. Any order? Motion. Motion. Madam Clerk, can you call the bill please? Bill number 35-00GS, 35th legislator of the Virgin Islands. an act amending title one chapter 11 Virgin Islands code to recognize the month of March as Girl Scouts month in the Virgin Islands amendment I say amendment amendment Madam President and colleagues, I rise to offer amendment number 35-045GS to bill number 35-00GS. This offers by your truly Senator Gittins and and signed on to by Senator Fred Gregory and Senator Potter. The amendment reads as follows. Bill number 35-00GS. This amendment, this is amended in section one, page two, 4:13:04 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 13 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole line 20 by striking word, the word, May and in certain the word shall. I so move. By Senator Gittins. Amen, men properly moved by Senator Gittins. Seconded by Senator Blyden and Senator Joseph. And Senator DeGraff. Seconded by Senator Blyden, Senator Joseph, Senator DeGraff. 4:15:23 Hearing no objections. Hearing no objections. So order. Amendment, Senator Hyliga. You're recognized for one minute. Your amendment. Go ahead. Amendment to bill. Amendment to bill. Amendment to Bill No. 35-00GS. Bill No. 35-00GS is amended section 1. 4:15:53 Objection. What is the objection? What? Senator Gettins. We did not receive a copy of the amendment. Check your desk. Check your desk. Check your desk. The senator is in order. We did not receive it. Clerk, please deliver a copy. Madam Clerk, please deliver a copy of the amendment to Senator Gettins. Thank you, I withdraw my objection. 4:16:40 We take a one-minute recess while we circulate the amendments. Make sure St. Croix get a copy as well. Thank you. Let's get started. Thank you. Thank you. 4:17:49 Thank you. Back on record, amendment, Senator, Senator Francis Heiliger, you're recognized for one minute for your amendment amendment number thirty five 5-0-0, point of order, point of order, recognize Senator, get him for his point of order. 4:20:19 What rule has been broken? the member should be standing we're in session correct you're doing a lot what to say the member should be standing we're in session you're going to pull it out and hold it okay you have it Santa Francis Halligarne you recognize you Senator Frances Heiligan, you're recognized for your amendment. 4:21:42 I rise to offer. Wait a minute. I rise to offer amendment number 35-001GS amendment to bill number 35-00GS. Go ahead, read it. Okay, bill number 25, 35-00GS is amended in section one by adding subsection C to read as it follows, the sum of $250,000 is appropriated annually for activities throughout the month of March for Girl Scouts Month. I so move. I so move. I so move. 4:22:18 Objection. Objection. Amendment properly made by Senator Francis Heidegger. Seconded by Senator DeGraff and Blyden. Objected to by Senator Frank Gregory. I'm Senator Gattins. Two minutes debate time. 4:23:24 Senator Heidliga, you're recognized for your two minutes debate. As young ladies in this territory, I believe that our government should always put their money where their mouth is and invest in the young women of this territory. I reserve the balance of my time. What? I reserve the balance of my time. 4:24:03 I reserve the balance of my time. How much time does Francis Hyliger have? I object. There is no fight. Testing. 4:24:37 Senator Francis Heidegger has one minute and 30 seconds. 38 seconds. Thank you. Remaining. I object. Wait, wait. Senator Frank Gregory you have two minutes. My object my my objection is due to not no funding source and identified in this amendment however we can make a a technical amendment to add the general fund. I reserve the balance of my time. How much time remaining for Senator Fred Gregory? Senator Fred Gregory has one minute, 35 seconds remaining. 4:25:09 Senator Franz Heiliger, you recognize you have one minute and 38 seconds. Thank you for sharing that information. Thank you for sharing that information. But on the original draft submitted from our office, it did state from the general fund So what we are requesting is a recent so that legal counsel could provide us with an accurate document. Thank you. 4:26:16 I reserve the balance of my time. How much time remains for Senator Frey Gregory? Frances Heiliger. Senator Francis Heiliger has one minute, ten seconds remaining. Thank you. Senator Fred Gregory has one minute and thirty-five seconds remaining. The act here, you recognize, is to restate your amendment and make a technical amendment to add general fund. 4:26:54 I reserve the balance of my time. How much time remained for Senator Fred Gregory? Senator Fred Gregory has 1 minute 17 seconds remaining. Senator Franz Heiliger, you have 1 minute and 10 seconds. 4:27:37 Thank you again for that information, but it is of my belief that due to the adding of the general fund, that would be a substantial change that it would not be part of. How much time remains for Senator Franz Heiliger? Senator Francis Heiliger has 41 seconds remaining. 4:28:03 Senator Fred Gregory are recognized for 1 minute and 17 seconds. Colleagues? I urge that you not support this amendment as it is presented. Colleagues? Colleagues, I urge that you not support this amendment as presented, as it is irresponsible to move measures that are not appropriately funded. Thank you. I reserve the balance of my time. 4:28:47 How much time does Senator Fred Gregory have left? Senator Fred Gregory has 43 seconds remaining. Senator Franz Heiliger, you are recognized. You have 41 seconds. Again, we would like to thank our colleague for sharing that information. But as I stated before, we are going to request a legal counsel provide us with the accurate document. So therefore, we withdraw this amendment until the legal document that is accurate is provided to us. Thank you. Very well. 4:29:28 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 14 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole Thank you. Thank you, the amendment is denied. Legal counsel, you are recognized. Pursuant to the Revised Organic Act of 1954, Sessions 7b, must be held in the The capital and all members of the legacy leader must be present to vote. Who asked that? Who asked that? Rule out of order. Rule out of order. 4:30:21 We're out of order. No such request was made at this time. what to say what is it we reason recognize recognize and it's a friend So I think I've got for another minute. Amendment. I rise and offer amendment. I rise and offer amendment number 35-0046GS amendment to bill 35-00GS 0.00GS offered by Senator Sylvia Brown representing Senator Alma Francis Heiliger. Bill number 35-00GS is amended in section 1, page 2, line 21 by adding a comma in the words, by striking. 4:31:25 By striking and by inserting a comma after the word press and the words social media, comma, television, and isomove. Amendment properly moved by Senator Francis Heidegger. Seconded by Senator DeGraff. Hearing no objection. Hearing no objection. Hearing no objection. Objection. Objection. So order. So order. I'm going to grab it. Madam Clerk. Madam Clerk. Please call up the bill as amended. 4:33:01 Please call up the bill as amended. Bill number 35-00GS, an act to recognize the month of March as Girl Scouts month in the Virgin Islands of the United States, as amended. Roll call on Bill 3500GS as amended. Senator Marvin A. Blyden, Blyden, Senator Blyden, yeah. Senator Angel A.L. Bolkis, Jr. Yay. Senator Bolkis, Jr., yay. Senator Diane C. Carhartt, Capehart. Not voting. Senator Capehart, not voting. Senator Samuel Carrion. Not voting. 4:34:16 Senator Carrion, not voting. Senator Dwayne M. DeGraff. Yes. Senator DeGraff, yay. Senator Ray Franseca. Yes. Senator Franseca, yay. Senator Novell E. Francis Jr. Yes. Senator Francis Jr., yay. Senator Alma Francis Halliger. Yes. Yes. Senator Francis Halliguer, yay. 4:35:41 Senator Donna A. Fred Gregory. Yes. Senator Fred Gregory, yay. Senator Kenneth L. Gittins. Yes. Senator Gittins, yay. Senator Maurice C. James. Not voting. Senator James, not voting. Senator Javen E. James, senior. Absent. Senator James, absent. 4:36:17 Senator Franklin D. Johnson. Yay. Senator Johnson, yay. Senator Carla J. Joseph. Yes. Senator Joseph, yay. Senator Milton Potter. Yes. Senator Potter, yay. Madam Chair, Madam President. 11, yay, one absent. Three not voting. Very well. 4:36:57 Bill number 35-00GS, an act amending titled 1, Chapter 11, Virgin Islands Code to recognize the month of March as Girl Scouts Month in the Virgin Islands, has been approved. and will be sent to the governor for further consideration and action. Thank you very much, colleagues, for your votes. So today's session, you're going to adjourn. 4:37:35 Before we adjourn, just real quickly, again, we always want to utilize this opportunity for civics lessons. The reason why the St. Croix contingent decided to not vote was because the official session is always held in the capital, in the chambers on St. Thomas. Consequently, they are not legally allowed to be able to vote or participate in any session from the St. Croix district. Hence they are non-voting on the measure before us. I'm sure that they are very much in support of moving this bill forward, but of course the vote is for naught because truly they were supposed to be in the capital for this. So for the purpose here today, again, we allow them to participate remotely, but nonetheless I mean, we wanna make sure that we're leaving the lesson and make sure that the record is correct because it's all about citizenship. We wanna make sure that our students, our Girl Scouts are very much familiar with the civics and the process by which we are allowed to vote. Again, we wanna thank you very much for today. Thank you for all that participated in putting this together. We had a wonderful day with our Girl Scouts. 4:38:28 I want to thank you say thank you to the executive director's office again and everyone that assisted and the parents of course our parents thank you very much for allowing as well as the Girl Scout leaders and everyone for being here today I'll ask the the Senate president if she would like to close off with anything at this point no thank you all right there will there will be a parade tomorrow at the um emil griffith ballpark from fort christian at 10 a.m sharp we're looking forward to seeing each and every one of you there today the mock session of march 17 2023 is hereby adjourned god bless each and every one of you god bless the virgin islands get home safe i have one question real quick before anybody leave i hope to see all of you at this parade tomorrow. 4:39:48 Thank you. Thank you. 4:41:17 Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 15 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole People named in this transcript SUSPECTED, and a finding aid only. Names were matched by machine against the spellings used across all 426 of our transcripts, and the title is the one used in the room. Being named here is NOT evidence that a person attended or spoke · only that the name was said. Speech recognition mishears names, so a spelling may be wrong even where no alternative is offered. 15x Senator Alma Francis-Heyliger heard in this transcript as: Alma Francis Halliger, Alma Francis Heiliger, Francis Heiliger, Franz Heiliger, Halliguer 14x Senator Fred Gregory the surname alone also matches: Donna A. Frett-Gregory; Donna Frett-Gregory heard in this transcript as: Frey Gregory 13x Senator Kenneth L. Gittens heard in this transcript as: Gattins, Gettins, Gittins, Kenneth Gittins, Kenneth L. Gittins 13x Senator Marvin Blyden heard in this transcript as: Blyden, Marvin A. Blyden 10x Senator Carla Joseph the surname alone also matches: Clifford Joseph; Karla J. Joseph heard in this transcript as: Carla J. Joseph, Joseph 9x Senator Dwayne DeGraff heard in this transcript as: DeGraff, Dwayne M. DeGraff 9x Senator Marise C. James the surname alone also matches: Javan James; Giovanni James Sr heard in this transcript as: James, Maurice C. James, Maurice James 8x Senator Milton E. Potter heard in this transcript as: Milton Potter, Potter 7x Senator Franklin D. Johnson heard in this transcript as: Franklin Johnson, Johnson 6x Senator Francis Heidegger the surname alone also matches: Alma Francis Heidegger heard in this transcript as: Heidegger 6x Senator Novelle Francis heard in this transcript as: Francis Jr, Francis Jr., Novell E. Francis Jr, Novell E. Francis Jr. 6x Senator Ray Fonseca heard in this transcript as: Fonseca, Franseca, Ray Franseca 6x Senator Samuel Carrion heard in this transcript as: Carrion 5x Senator Diane T. Capeheart heard in this transcript as: Capehart, Dianne Capehart, Dianne T. Capehart 3x Senator Frank Gregory the surname alone also matches: Donna A. Frett-Gregory; Donna Frett-Gregory 3x Senator Javan James heard in this transcript as: Javen E. James 2x Governor Albert Bryan Jr 2x Senator Angel L. Bolkis Jr heard in this transcript as: Bolkis Jr. 2x Senator Angel L. Bulkes Jr heard in this transcript as: Bulkus 2x Senator Donna A. Frett-Gregory heard in this transcript as: Donna A. Fred Gregory 2x Commissioner Gary Malloy 2x Director Patrick Farrell heard in this transcript as: Patrick D. Farrell 1x Senator Donna Frett-Gregory Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 16 of 17 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scouts Day The Committee of the Whole heard in this transcript as: Donna A. Frett-Gregory Machine transcript · UNVERIFIED. Verify every quotation against the recording. Speakers are not identified. VI Update · usvipublicrecords.com · public record, no rights asserted (CC0 1.0) 17 of 17