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VI UPDATE U.S. Virgin Islands Public Records TRANSCRIPT OF PUBLIC PROCEEDINGS | Girl Scout Mock Session Legislature USVI March 14, 2025 · 4.0 hours · gov Source recording https://youtu.be/74GrZRuGK-Y 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. Public record The underlying proceeding is a public record of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. 3 V.I.C. § 881(a) defines public records to include all records and documents of or belonging to this Territory or any branch of government, or any "department, board, council or committee of any branch of government" · which names legislative committees by category. § 881(b) gives every citizen the right to examine and copy such records, and the news media the right to publish them. (The open-meetings chapter, 1 V.I.C. § 254, does NOT reach the Legislature: § 253(b) expressly excludes it and its Standing and Special Committees. § 881 does, and it is § 881 that confers the right to copy and publish.) The Legislature broadcast this proceeding publicly itself. The source recording is not ours, is not hosted here, and remains with its publisher at the link above. Rights To what we added · the transcription, its arrangement and its description · we assert nothing. A verbatim transcript is mechanical rather than authored, so there is likely nothing in it to own; to the extent any copyright is nonetheless found to subsist, it is dedicated to the public domain under CC0 1.0. Please copy it, quote it, index it, train on it, republish it, mirror it, sell it. Redistribution is the point: a public record with one copy is one fire from gone. No permission is needed, and none is ours to grant or withhold. the core values of courage, confidence, and character that have defined the Girl Scout movement for generations. The skills you are developing now, leadership, civic engagement, community service, and advocacy are precisely the qualities that build strong leaders and engaged citizens. This mock session is more than a ceremonial event it is an opportunity for you to experience firsthand how our democratic process works how laws that shape our community are debated and enacted and how your voices can and should be heard in these processes remember it wasn't that long ago that women did not have a place in legislative chambers like this one the right for women to serve in government was hard fought and hard won. Your presence here today honors that legacy and extends it forward. I encourage you to ask questions, engage fully in today's proceedings, and imagine yourselves returning to these chambers one day not as visitors, not as guests, but as elected senators of the people of the United States Virgin Islands. The VI needs your energy, your perspective, and your commitment and as president I'm committing to supported to supporting programs that open doors for young women like yourselves to engage with government and public service thank you for your dedication to making our community stronger I look forward to seeing the great things you will accomplish today and in the years to come I am now deeply honored to introduce you to the senate president for the day miss julie potter who will introduce herself and lead today's mock session before i officially turn the mic and the gavel over to miss potter like to say that we're going to officially dissolve into the committee of the whole in order to take the 0:00:00 testimony of these powerful young ladies who are right in front of us uh here today miss potter the floor and the gavel is yours are yours i know Okay. Good morning. My name is Julie Potter. I am 14 years old and I attend Ivana E. Dorican High School. I was always inspired to do good because of my Christian faith. I love cooking and in general helping others. I inspired to be an intrapreneur when I I grew up. I would also like to introduce my chief of staff, Dalani Lewis. She attends the St. Thomas St. John's Seven Day Adventist School and she is in seventh grade. Colleagues, I will now ask you to introduce yourself. Each senator will be afforded one minute beginning with Senator Alma Francis Heiliger. Senator Francis Heiliger, you are recognized for your one minute. 0:02:17 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) 1 of 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Thank you, good afternoon to my colleagues, good afternoon to the people of the territory. I would like to introduce my Girl Scout of the name is Kiara Lewis. She will be representing me today and I'm excited to have her here. It's all yours my dear. Thank you. Good morning. My name is Kiara Lewis. I am a cadet at the Bertha C. Bushelta Middle School and I am representing Senator Heiliger for the day. Thank you. Senator Franklin D. Johnson, you are recognized for your one minute morning thank you very much madam president today I have with me Jalen Robinson and she'll definitely introduce herself and her chief of staff that's here with me today thank you very much madam president good morning my name is Jalen Robinson I attend Alfredo Andrews school I am a a cadet and when I grow up I would like to be a hairstylist. My chiefs of staff is Jada Lee Lopez. She attends John H Woodson. 0:03:53 Thank you. Senator DeWayne M.D. Graff, you are recognized for your one minute. Hello, good morning. My name is Isaiah James and I will be representing Senator DeGraff and my chief of staff is Sire Morin and I attend Bertha Siboshelta Middle School. Thank you. Thank you. Senator Angel Buquist, Jr., you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you, President. My name is Tejnick Adams. I am 17. I am a junior in the Ivana y Dorican High School. I am representing Senator Bulquez I am an ambassador Girl Scout this is my chief of staff thank you senator Hubert L Frederick you okay good morning my name is Demaya Henley I am a cadet in the Girl Scouts this is my seventh year in this Girl Scouts. I attend the Wesleyan Academy School. Some of my favorite hobbies are drumming, drawing, roller skating, baking, and making stories. 0:05:17 Thank you. Senator Hubert L. Frederick, you are recognized for your one minute. Good morning. My name is Jaslyn Lynch. I am an 11-year-old at the Ricardo Richards Elementary School and my chief of staff is Ms. Sodania and she's a sixth grader. Thank you. Senator Karla J. Joseph, you are recognized for your one minute. Good morning. Good morning to, good morning, Madam President, colleagues, and people listening. My name is Rachel Sproul. I attend the Charlotte Amalia High School. 0:06:42 I am in 10th grade. I am a junior in the Girl Scouts, and I am here with my chief of staff, Rihanna White. She also attends the Charlotte Amalia High School, and she is also in 10th grade. She is a junior as well in the Charlotte Amalia High School. Thank you, Navelle E. Francis, you are recognized for your one minute. Good morning, my name is Tinkara Vera, I am 11 years old and I attend the Lumoco Elementary School. I am representing Navelle E. Francis along here with my Chief of Staff, Fazia. She is in 8th grade and she attends the Juanita Guardian School. Thank you. Clifford, Senator Clifford A. Joseph Senior, you are recognized for your one minute. 0:07:30 Good morning. Good morning. My name is Natalie Ponce. I am a cadet at the Yulalie R. Rivera Pre-K to 8th grade school. I would like to be a veterinarian when I grow up. My chief of staff is Ms. Tatiana Incaracion, a cadet at Alfredo Andrews School, and she wants to be a dancer when she grows up. 0:08:29 Thank you. Senator Rae Fonseca, you are recognized for your one minute. Good morning. My name is Tatiana Julian. Hello. Good morning. My name is Tatiana Julian. I'm a senior girl scout at the Charlotte Amalia High School. I'm representing Rae Fonseca for the day. And this is my chief of staff, Janae Demons. She's an eighth grader at the Wesleyan Academy School. and yeah thank you senator Maurice C James you are recognized for your one minute hi my name is Cameron Maduro and I attend the Lumaca Elementary School again in the sixth grade thank you my name is cameron madu and i attend the lumaca elementary school in the sixth grade and my chief of staff is hi i am giana aloyo and i am nine years old from the fourth grade from the ricardo richards elementary school and i am the chief researcher thank you thank you senator marvin a blyden you are recognized for your one minute okay all right senator kurt violette you are recognized for your one minute good morning i am cadet akisha bandamitri an eighth grader at wanita guardian k-8 school i enjoy drawing and listening to music what i enjoy most about girl scouts is the experiences 0:09:02 i get to have with the other girls i am representing senator kurt violet violet the majority leader and the and chair of the committee of education and workforce development thank you i will allow my chief of staff to introduce herself good morning i am cadet ivalice lampe a sixth grader at lumoco elementary school When I grow up I want to be a veterinarian and I enjoy playing sports and listening to music. My favorite thing about Girl Scouts is when we do fundraisers like selling cookies and when I get to spend time with my friends. I am representing Chief of Staff Mrs. Glorvy Christiane Krieger from the office of Senator BLA. Thank you. Senator Avery L. Lewis, you are recognized for your one minute. 0:11:08 Good morning. My name is Kimena Gregoire. I am a cadet. I am an ambassador at Charlotte Mollie High School. My legislative aide is Rekhaya Remy. She's in seventh grade and a cadet at Bertha C. Bichelta Middle School. Thank you. Senator Kenneth L. Gittins, you are recognized for your one Thank you. Good morning. I have Ms. Kalia Ayala here representing me today and I ask you for your indulgence. It will take maybe one minute and a half, but we have to leave to attend another groundbreaking function. Ms. Ayala? Senator Ayala? 0:12:16 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Good morning. My name is Kalia Ayala, an 8-grader at the John Hicks Woodson Junior High School here on the St. Croix. I am a proud member of the Girl Scouts USVI. Also here with me today is my Chief of Staff, fellow Girl Scout, Kalia Ramos, who is representing Ms. Fiona Stokes. Today I am representing Senator Vice President Jeanette Kenny Gittins and a strong and committed leader whose slogan is Let Restore Life in our Island. I stand before you I stand before today to express my strong support for the proposed legislative bill that foster leadership community engagement and educational development for young girls like myself this bill is not only empower empowers us to be strong, confident leaders, but also provides opportunities for a better future for our community. 0:13:09 Fellow Scouts, I ask you to consider the importance of investing in programs like Girl Scouts, USVI, and other youth focused initiatives that I help keep young people on the right path, away from violence and towards positive opportunities. This program provides guidance, mentorship, and the skills we need to make meaningful contribution to our society. I also encourage you, the real members the 36 legislators of the Virgin Islands to support this bill. In reality, I'll continue funding and expanding vital programs as our for the betterment of the future. Together, we can ensure that young women and men of the Virgin Islands have the tools to grow into responsible, compassionate leadership. Thank you. Thank you. Senator Milton E. Potter you are recognized for your one minute. We will now introduce other important central staff employees. Dejanae Welllock, protocol officer. Jazaline Martin, protocol office assistant. Kayla, legal counsel. Kayla Basil, SGT at arms. Leah Rollins, security officer. Esiuri Johnson, media photography. Amira Royer, timekeeper. 0:14:25 Anaya Anthony, code revisor. Faith O'Bannon, security officer. Jekoya Pogson, post audit. Kyriah Daly, protocol officer. Kimora Pascal, reporter. Kishma Gratis, Gratis, Legal Counsel. Kyla Cuffey, Security Officer. Larissa, Media Photography. Olivia Thomas, Media Photography. Samaya Smith, Timekeeper. Shadaya, Clerk. 0:16:41 Madam Clerk, that's all for the central staff employees. Madam Clerk, are there any pieces of correspondence to be read into the record at this time? No, Madam President. Madam Clerk, can you please read the official agenda into the record? The 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands will convey in a mock session to receive testimony from the Girl Scouts, USVI, Inc. 0:17:33 BR25-0000, an act to recognize and support the efforts of Girl Scouts, USVI, Inc., in fostering leadership, community engagement, and educational development among young girls, and to appropriate funding to ensure the continuation and expansion of these initiatives. Thank you Madam Clerk. At this time we will ask the testifiers to introduce themselves starting from my right. Please put your name and title on the record. 0:18:12 Good morning I'm Achille Bryant. Good morning I'm Leila Cornell and I'm a testifier. Good morning I'm Naomi Griffith and I'm a testifier. Good morning my name is Joya Alexis Cranston and I'm a junior moderator. Good morning my name is Haven Smith and I am the president of the United States Girl Scouts. Good morning And I am Keiondra Warren and I am a testifier. 0:18:57 Testifiers in St. Croix, please introduce yourself. hi my name is and I'm a brownie hi my name is Kaelin Joseph I'm a daisy good morning my name is Sianianos and I am a cadet good morning my name is Michaela Walker and I am a ninth grader attending the st. Croix Central High School today I will be a testifier good morning my name is Keeley Schuster I attend the st. 0:19:54 educational complex high school and I am a testifier thank you testifiers testifier you may not proceed with your testimony Hello, my name is McKaylee Byer, I'm a... Good morning, esteemed senators, honored guests, friends of the Girl Scout movement, and my sisters in scouting. My name, once again, is Hayman Smith, and I am a proud cadet Girl Scout attending the Locker K-8 school. Today, I also have the great honor of serving as the President of the United States Virgin Islands Girl Scouts. 0:20:25 It is my privilege to welcome you to this special presentation in celebration of Girl Scout History Week and Women's History Month. For over a century, the Girl Scouts have been empowering young girls with values of courage, confidence, and character. From our youngest daisies to our dedicated cadets, we are shaping the next generation of leaders through hands-on learning, innovative STEM projects, and impactful community service. Our program not only inspires personal growth, but also aligns with the national educational standards, ensuring that our girls are prepared academically and equipped to lead with the vision and compassion. Today, you will hear firsthand how our Girl Scouts are embracing challenges, excelling in education, and making a global impact. Your support is essential in expanding our outreach, Ensuring that every school in the USVA can host a troop and that teachers are recognized for their commitment. And our girls have opportunities to shadow professionals and engage in international events. Thank you for your dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders. 0:21:16 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session I invite you to now listen to our remarkable young voices who are already making a difference in our community and beyond. Thank you very much testifier. We will not proceed with our second testifier. Hello, my name is McKaylee Bryan. We will now hear from Kaylee Joseph, our Daisy on St. Croix. 0:22:22 Every time I receive our Girl Scout promise, on my honor, I will try to scourge God and my country to help others and to live by the Girls Got Law. I feel like I'm joining a big family that cares in our meeting. I learn fun things like crab, singing and exploring nature. Every time I, even simple activities help me grow by teaching my kindness and curiosity. 0:23:18 thank you testify clerk any other testifiers Hello, my name is McKaylee Bryant. I might be little, but I already know that my promise means I should always try my best. When I earn a patch, it reminds me of all the fun memories we make. I'm learning that even little steps like helping a friend or picking up little make a big difference. 0:24:00 Thank you, testifier. Any other testifiers? Good morning, honorable senators of the USVI, welcome to our special presentation celebrating Girl Scout Week and Women's History Month. My name is Joya Alexis Cranston and I am a junior Girl Scout with New Testament Troop 44507. I am honored to be your moderator today we are here to show you why the Girl Scout bill is an investment not just in our troop but in the future of education community leadership and global sisterhood today we will share our personal journeys from our first steps as daisies to our hands-on experiences as Brownies and our advanced learning as cadets we will demonstrate how our activities align with common core standards in mathematics language arts and science and how they prepare us for tomorrow's challenges we'll also highlight the legacy of famous Girl Scouts like Kundaliza Rice Omfra Winfrey and Shonda Rhymes whose early experiences in Girl Scouts paved the way for a remarkable achievement. Finally we'll explain how your support through initiatives like establishing Girl Scout troops in every school providing stipend stipends for teacher volunteers offering weekend meeting spaces creating professional outshadowing opportunities and supporting global events will empower every girl in the USVI. The foundation of our journey starts with these early lessons of trust, kindness, and curiosity. 0:25:02 These are the very traits that shape us into confident and caring leaders. Thank you, testifier. Ms. Broadhurst, please proceed with your testimony. Hi, I'm Yasunique Broadhurst. I love how learning, how earning badges isn't just about collecting stickers. It's about achieving goals. For instance, when I earn a badge for completing a coding challenge in our STEM workshop, it shows that I can solve problems and think creatively. These challenges build our teamwork and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for our future in science and technology. Hello Senators, I'm Layla Cornell. 0:27:13 In our troop we learn by doing, for example when we plan our cookie sales we learn how to count money, set budgets, and even practice basic math skills that match common core standards. Our hands-on activities make math come alive. Thank you, testifier. Miss Naomi Griffith, please proceed with your testimony. Hello Senators, I'm Naomi Griffith. Our troop also does traditional activities like camping and hiking, where we learn real-life lessons about nature and survival. Organizing a cookie booth isn't just fun, it's a practical lesson in financial literacy. These experiences help us understand how to work together, manage resources and lead projects. Every badge and patch we earn represents a milestone in our learning journey, directly in Hanschen are skills in math, language, and science. 0:28:20 Thank you, Brownies. Your words show that Girl Scouts teaches more than fun. It builds a bridge between classroom learning and real world skills, empowering you to learn academic concepts in everyday life. Thank you. Thank you, Testifier. Ms. Tiana, please proceed with your testimony. Good morning, Senators. I'm Tiana Llanos. As older Girl Scouts, our projects have become more advanced. Our STEM programs now include robotics challenges, engineering tasks, and even coding workshops that require us to think critically and creatively these projects aren't separate from our schoolwork they're designed to reinforce common core standards by integrating math science and technology into fun engaging activities these experiences taught us how to analyze problems and and devise innovative solutions. 0:30:02 Thank you, testifier. Keandra, you may now proceed with your testimony. Hello, I am Keandra Warrell. Beyond technical skills, we focus on community service Our community has organized initiatives such as caring for animals at the local Humane Society and protecting sea turtles at Brewer's Beach. By doing so, we put our Girl Scout law into practice, being honest, fair and respectful to all living beings. 0:31:08 These projects teach us empathy, responsibility and how every action we take can have a positive impact on our community and our environment. Colleagues, we will proceed, thank you. Thank you, testifiers. Colleagues, we will now proceed with our, wait. Isn't the last testifier? Yeah. St. Croix, you have testifier, that's it. What? 0:31:52 The testifiers on St. Croix, please proceed. Testifiers on St. Croix, please proceed. Moreover, our community is part of a global network that connects us with millions of girls in over 100 countries. This global connection broadens our perspectives and shows us that while we might have different traditions, our core values, leadership, service, and sisterhood are the same. worldwide sisterhood is a powerful tool for learning about diverse cultures and global issues and it prepares us to be responsible global citizens thank you thank you testifiers colleagues we will proceed with a 0:32:22 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session two-minute round go ahead And let's not forget the inspiring stories of famous Girl Scouts. Many incredible women started just like us. Condoleezza Rice, for instance, began her journey here and went on to become the U.S. Secretary of State. Oprah Winfrey and Shawna Rimes also credit their Girl Scout experiences as being vital in shaping their leadership skills and creative visions. their stories remind us that with the right support and opportunities we too can achieve greatness. Thank you testifiers. Are there any more testifiers? 0:33:27 Scout program is how it supports education. Let's dive a little deeper into that. Every activity we do in Girl Scouts is designed to complement what we learn in school. When we participate in cookie sales, we're not just learning about business, we're by applying math in real-world scenarios. We calculate cost, plan budgets, and use data analysis to predict sales. These experiences reinforce the common core math standards, making abstract concepts tangible and fun. Thank you testifier. Are there any more testifiers? 0:34:07 In our language arts activities we write stories, journal our adventures and we even prepare speeches for our presentations like this one. This not only improves our writing skills, but also builds our confidence in public speaking and communication, skills that are still essential for academic success and beyond. Thank you. Thank you, testifiers. Colleagues, we will proceed with the two. 0:35:08 Are there any more testifiers? Our STEM projects are particularly exciting because they bridge classroom learning with hands-on exploration. Whether it's coding a simple program or designing a robotic model, we are encouraged to think critically and work collaboratively. This approach not only prepares us for future careers in science and technology, but also aligns directly with Common Core standards in critical thinking and problem-solving. Thank you. Teamwork and time management are vital for our success both in school and later on in our careers. By participating in community service projects and working together on complex tasks, we develop a sense of responsibility and resilience that textbooks alone can't provide. 0:35:48 Thank you. Media, please recognize the mic of the testifier. Our integrated approach to education means that Girl Scouts is not just an extracurricular activity, it's an extension of our classroom where every project, every badge, and every patch contributes to our academic growth and personal development. Let's take a moment to reflect on the incredible legacy of Girl Scouts and the famous Illuminae who have inspired us. 0:36:52 Thank you, testifier. Are there any more testifiers? Did you know that many famous women who have made significant contributions to our society began their journeys as Girl Scouts? Condoleezza Rice, a trailblazer in politics and international diplomacy, was once a Girl Scout. Her early experiences in our troop taught her the values of leadership and service that propelled her to become one of the most influential women in government. Thank you. Media, please recognize the mic of the testifier. And then there's Oprah Winfrey, whose inspiring career in media and philanthropy started with the lesson she learned as a Girl Scout. Oprah's story is a testament to how the skills of communication, empathy, and resilience are cultivated right here in our troop. 0:37:38 Next testifier. we also look up to Shonda Rhimes a creative powerhouse who revolutionized television storytelling her journey reminds us that creativity hard work and the courage to follow our dreams are all nurtured in the Girl Scout program thank you media please recognize the mic of the testifier in addition to these national and global role models many of our local senators themselves began as a Girl Scout their early experiences in our troop learning to lead to serve and to care for others has shaped their lives and careers their success stories are living proof that the Girl Scout program is a powerful stepping stone to a brighter future we believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of Girl Scouts. Here's how your support can help expand these opportunities across the USBI. Establishing Girl Scout troops in every school. Imagine if every school had its own Girl Scout troop. Every student would gain access to leadership, training, STEM projects, and community service activities that complements their classroom learning, providing stipends for teacher volunteers with teacher stipends more dedicated educators could volunteer their time to guide and mentor girl scouts this would mean richer more structured programs that integrate academic learning with real-world applications offering weekend meeting spaces providing accessible and safe 0:38:44 meeting spaces on weekends would allow us more time for hands-on learning, community service projects, and preparation for global Girl Scout events. Creating opportunities for professional shadowing. By partnering with local businesses and organizations, we could offer shadowing opportunities that give us a glimpse into various careers, from STEM fields to leadership roles in business and government. Supporting global Girl Scout events. Funding, participation in international exchanges and global events would help us connect with millions of girls around the world. These experiences enrich our understanding of diverse cultures, inspire innovative thinking, and strengthen our sense of global citizenship. 0:40:36 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Supporting these initiatives means investing in a future where every girl in the USVI has the chance to learn, lead, and succeed. It's about equipping us with the skills we need to thrive in school and in life. I'd like to suggest that the Girl Scout is not just funding activities, you're nurturing leaders who will go on to make a positive impact in our community, in our country, and around the world. In summary, our Girl Scout program is much more than a club. 0:41:33 It's an innovative learning environment where education meets its real-world experiences. Here's what we've seen. Educational impact. Our activities, whether managing cookie sales, tackling STEM projects, or preparing presentations, are designed to reinforce classroom learning. They help us achieve common core standards in math, language, arts, and science while developing critical life skills like leadership, teamwork, and financial literacy. Community service. Through projects like Caring for Animals at the Humane Society and Protecting Sea Turtles at Brewer's Beach, we learn the importance of civic responsibility. We see firsthand how small actions can lead to big changes in our community. 0:42:27 Global connection. Being part of a global sisterhood means that our experiences extend beyond our local community, interacting with Girl Scouts from different countries, enriches our perspectives, foster cultural understanding, and prepares us to be proactive global citizens. Inspiring role models, the legacy of famous Girl Scouts like Condoleezza Rice, Oprah Winfrey, and Shonda Rhimes motivates us every day. Their achievements remind us that the skills and values we learn here, courage, confidence, and character, can help us overcome any challenge. 0:43:22 With your support, every girl in the USVI can have access to these life-changing opportunities. You can help us create a future where education, community service, and global engagement go hand-in-hand. Thank you. roads of tradition and innovation of local impact and global connection by supporting the Girl Scout bill you are ensuring that our program remains a vital part of our educational system a program that equips girls with the skills confidence and compassion they need to lead in a rapidly changing world well we love being Girl Scout because it teaches us to dream care I I believe in our self. 0:44:15 Yes. Every time I see all farmers, I remember to be kind and try my best and help others. I know that even a little girl like me can change the world. 0:45:34 Supporting the Girl Scout program isn't just about fun. It's about learning skills that matter. Every badge we earn and every STEM challenge we tackle prepares us for success in school and life. From practical experiences in cookie sales and financial management to to invulgate innovative STEM projects, our program enriches our education and builds our leadership skills that align with common core standards. 0:46:07 We look to more programs that integrate academic learning with real-world applications. Offering weekend meeting spaces, providing accessible and safe meeting spaces on weekends would allow us more time for hands-on learning community service projects and preparation for global girl scout events creating opportunities of professional shadowing by partnering with local businesses and organizations we could offer shadowing opportunities that give us all is glimpse into various careers from stem fields to leadership roles in business and government Supporting global Girl Scout events, funding participation in international changes, exchanges and global events would help us to connect with millions of girls around the world. These experiences enrich our understanding of diverse cultures, inspire innovative thinking and strengthen our sense of global citizenship. 0:46:58 We learn teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking. These experiences are the building blocks of a bright future, and they help us become leaders who can take on any challenge. By supporting initiatives like school-based troops, teacher stipends, weekend meeting spaces and professional shadowing, you empower every girl in the USVI to learn, lead and make a difference both locally and globally. 0:48:19 Our presentation today has shown you the power of the Girl Scout program. It's an educational hub that integrates academic excellence, community service, and global connections. Your support for the Girl Scout bill will help extend these opportunities, ensuring that every girl has the chance to develop the skills and character needed to lead our communities into the future. you for your time and consideration with your support we can continue to nurture a generation of innovative compassionate and globally minded leaders let's let's invest in the future together Yay, hello. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Transcription by CastingWords Thank you. 0:49:15 We'll be right back. Thank you. Thank you. 0:53:43 Li-lo-la-la-de-lo-te-lo-dai Li-lo-la-la-de-lo-te-lo-dai Thank you. Thank you. 0:55:13 Oh, yeah, man. Thank you. Oh, my God. so so 0:56:43 so Thank you. 0:59:13 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session so I love you. 1:00:13 Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. so Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. . . Amen. 1:01:13 Thank you. Thank you. . . 1:08:43 Thank you. The committee of the whole is back on record. 1:10:43 Colleagues, we will proceed with a one minute round. Senator Heiliger, you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you, my colleagues. This question is directed to Testifier Kaelin Joseph. How has being a Girl Scout impacted your personal growth and learning? Senator, being a Girl Scout makes me feel proud and excited. Every day I learn to be kind to help others and I gain confidence even when I'm doing new activities like crafts and nature walks. It's a little thing starts that helped me grow into a caring leader. Thank you Madam Chair for the time. Thank you. Senator Johnson you are recognized for your one minute. This question is for Aliyah Joseph. What educational programs will be offered at the camp and how would they be structured? 1:11:19 Senator DeGraff, you are recognized for your one minute. My question is towards the Icelandic Broadhurst. What construction methods and materials will be used for the cabins to ensure durability in a tropical climate? 1:12:51 That's the wrong one. No, that's my question. My question. I ain't doing what's, what's, what's, what's, what's. 30 seconds. Is it not a second or a second or a second? Sure. 30 seconds. Here. Here. Here. Here. Here. 1:13:25 Here. Here. Speak. Get back. It's not my turn. It's not my turn. The community as a whole stands in recess for one minute. Thank you. 1:13:52 ¶¶ Thank you. Thank you. so so 1:14:59 so so so Thank you. 1:17:29 Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I need to go by Senator Franklin Johnson, or Senator Johnson. 1:19:29 The Committee of the Whole is back on the record. Senator Johnson please, Senator Johnson, you are recognized for your one minute. 1:21:18 This question is for Layla Corneli. Can you explain how Girl Scout activities promote STEM learning and prepare you for future challenges absolutely senator in our stem workshops we get to work on robotic challenges and coding projects that teach us problem-solving and teamwork these These hands-on activities make science and math fun, and they help us apply what we learn in school to real-life challenges. Senator DeGraff, you are recognized for your one minute. 1:21:56 Thank you. What important life skills have you learned through Girl Scouts, like leadership or financial literacy? Senator, I've learned so much from planning our cookie sales and organizing community events. Managing money, working in groups, and setting goals have taught me leadership and financial responsibility skills that I know will help me throughout my life. Senator Junior, you are recognized for your one minute. 1:22:52 Senator, you are recognized for your one minute. Good morning. This question is for Tiani Llanos. How do you feel that establishing a Girl Scout troop in every school could enhance your education and community? troop in every school could enhance your education and community senator having a Girl Scout troop in every school would give every girl the chance to learn leadership build friendships and engage in community service it would also strengthen our academic skills by integrating practical activities with classroom learning benefiting our whole community thank you senator frederick you are recognized for your one minute this question is for miss cranston how have famous girl scouts like condoleezza rice oprah winfrey and shanda rhymes inspire your own journey senator they inspire us by showing that even starting in a small troop you can go on to do amazing things their stories remind us that the skills we learn here leadership courage and determination can help us overcome challenges and achieve great 30 seconds in any field senator carla j joseph you are recognized for your one minute thank you madam chair pleasant good day this question goes to miss Griffith tell me about the role of community service in your troop like protecting the sea turtles and caring for the animals at the Humane Society 1:23:29 senator community service is at the heart of what we do by cleaning up Brewer's Beach and caring for animals we learn compassion responsibility and how our actions can make the world better these projects teach us that small hands can have a big impact 30 seconds Thank you. Senator Nouvelle E. Francis, you're recognized for your one minute. 1:25:25 Thank you Madam Chair. This question goes to Keandra Worrell. How do the badges and patches you earn motivate you to achieve your goals? Senator, let's show me how I've learned and helped me see progress. are like special reminders of fun events we've shared with our troop. Together they motivate me to keep trying my best and to work towards even bigger dreams. Thank you. Senator Clifford A. Joseph senior you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you. Could 1:26:05 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session you explain how the Girl Scout promise and law guide your everyday actions. Senator, the promise under law remind me to always be honest, kind and helpful. They guide my decision at home and at school. 30 seconds left. So I always I always try to do my best, to help my friends, and to respect everyone around me. Thank you. Senator Fonseca, you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you Madam Chair. This question is for Ms. Yannos, why do you think every school should have a Girl Scout troop? Senator, every girl deserves a chance to develop leadership and life skills. having a troop at every school we create more opportunities for teamwork service and learning helping to build a stronger more engaged community thank you thank you senator James you are recognized for your one minute Thank you Madam Chair. 1:27:45 This question is for Ms. Warrell. How will a stipend for teachers volunteering with Girl Scout troop benefit you and your peers? With extra guidance and support to our troop activities, with a stipend, more teachers will be able to dedicate their time which means better organize programs, enrich activities and more opportunities for us to learn and grow. Thank you. Senator Blyden, you are recognized for your one minute. Senator Kurt Violette, you are recognized for your one minute thank you madam chair this question is for Miss Cranston how does the Girl Scout program align with common core standards and modern education methods and it's her our program integrates part practical projects like cookie sales for math skills writing stories about our adventures and stem challenges that foster critical thinking these activities support the common core standards by teaching us to solve problems communicate clearly and work collaboratively all essential skills for the future thank you senator Lewis you're recognized for your one minute thank you madam president good afternoon colleagues and good afternoon testifiers. This question is for Leila Cornell. How can shadowing professionals through Girl Scouts inspire you for future careers? 1:28:38 Shadowing professionals open our eyes to different career paths and help us see what we might be able to do when we grow up. It gives us real-world insight into It feels like technology, medicine and business, and inspires us to dream big and work hard. Thank you. 1:30:27 Senator Gittens, you are recognized for your one minute. This question is for Tiana. In summary, why should the USVI Senate continue to support the Girl Scouts with school troops? Teacher, Steve Penns, meeting spaces, shadowing opportunity, and global event support. Senator, senators, supporting Girl Scouts is an investment in our future. With every troop in every school, every teacher volunteer, and every community space, You're providing us the tools to learn, lead, and serve. Thank you. 1:30:58 It's not just about our culture. It's about building a skill for STEM, life, and leadership. Your support helps us grow into confident, capable leaders who can make a positive impact, both locally and globally. Thank you. Thank you. Colleagues, we have exhausted our round of questioning and we will now proceed to roll call. We will now move back into regular session to vote on the bill before us. 1:31:51 Senator Blyden. The committee stands on recess for 30 minutes. The committee stands on recess for 30 minutes. 1:32:36 Thank you. Thank you. 1:33:08 Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 1:34:08 Thank you. Thank you. 1:35:38 Thank you. so Thank you. so Thank you. 1:36:38 ¶¶ Thank you. ¶¶ Thank you. 1:39:08 ¶¶ La-la-la-le-lo-te-lo-dai La-la-la-le-lo-te-lo-dai Thank you. Thank you. 1:41:08 Oh, yeah, man. Thank you. Thank you. so so 1:43:07 uh so so so Oh, my God. 1:45:37 Thank you. Oh, my God. [2 such phrases repeated 12 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 1:48:07 Thank you. ¶¶ [2 such phrases repeated 9 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 1:54:07 ¶¶ ¶¶ ¶¶ Thank you. ¶¶ La, la, la, la, la, la. 1:59:07 Thank you. Thank you. so so Thank you. so so 2:02:06 so Oh, my God. Thank you. Oh, my God. [3 such phrases repeated 11 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 2:05:36 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Thank you. ¶¶ so so Thank you. [2 such phrases repeated 8 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 2:11:36 Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 2:17:06 Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 2:18:36 Thank you. Thank you. 2:21:06 Thank you. ¶¶ Thank you. 2:22:06 Thank you. so so Thank you. ¶¶ Thank you. 2:23:36 ¶¶ ¶¶ ¶¶ Wake up! 2:26:36 Thank you. ¶¶ Oye, amigo. 2:28:36 Thank you. Oh, my God. so uh so 2:30:05 so Thank you. 2:32:35 so Oh, my God. Oh Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Let's go. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 2:33:35 Thank you. uh Thank you. [2 such phrases repeated 8 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 2:40:05 ¶¶ Bye. ¶¶ We'll be right back. 2:44:35 Thank you. Thank you. ¶¶ Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. so uh so The committee of the whole is back on the record. 2:46:35 We have some additional testifiers this afternoon. will start with Heaven Smith. Good afternoon Honorable Senators, esteemed guests and their members of our community. Once again, my name is Heaven Smith and I am the president of the US Virgin Islands Girl Scouts. On behalf of our entire organization, thank you for giving us a chance to present a vision that we believe can change lives and uplift the Virgin Islands for generations to come. Imagine being a young girl full of curiosity and potential but never having the ability or opportunity to sleep under the stars, learn outdoor skills, or gain leadership experiences in a structured camp environment. Imagine missing out on the friendships, the confidence, and a personal growth that come from team-building challenges and facing fears in a supportive setting. That's That's the reality many of our girls face today here in the Virgin Islands. 2:51:29 No prominent camp to call their own. Throughout history, Girl Scouts has shaped some of the world's most influential women. Sandra Day O'Connor, Oprah Winfrey, Sally Ride, Hillary Clinton, Venus and Serena Williams, just to name a few. These women often cite Girl Scouts as a place where they first found their leadership potential and learn to believe in themselves imagine how many leaders we could nurture right here in the Virgin Islands just if we had a dedicated camp for them we're asking for your support to build a permanent sustainable hurricane resistant Girl Scout camp certified by the American Camp Association also known as ACA ACA certification ensures that our camp meets national guidelines for health, safety, and program quality, giving parents, volunteers, and our community confidence in this investment. Now I'd like to introduce our Vice President, Makayla Walcott, who will share why this camp is so essential for our girls and our community. 2:52:31 Thank You Madam. Honorable Senators, I am Makayla Walcott, Vice President of the U.S. Virgin Islands Girl Scouts. Girl Scouts is about building courage, confidence, and character in young women. However, unlike our mainland counterparts, we do not have a permanent camp where our girls can experience structured outdoor programs, STEM learning, and leadership development. Research from the American Camp Association shows that children who attend accredited camps experience 70% higher self-confidence and independence, improve social and teamwork skills, 96% of campers, enhance problem-solving and leadership abilities, 92% of campers, and better academic performance in STEM subjects. 2:53:41 These numbers aren't just statistics, they represent real growth in real children, growth we want for our Virgin Islands girls. Did you know, 80% of female business owners in the U.S. were once Girl Scouts? that 69% of female US senators were Girl Scouts and that majority of the VI female senators past and present were also Girl Scouts? This shows the power of Girl Scout experiences in shaping future leaders. But without a permanent camp, our local girls miss out on these critical developmental opportunities. To make this camp a reality, we need a sound financial plan and a clear strategy. That's why we have a dedicated finance team who will explain exactly how we plan to fund this camp and why government support is essential. I'll let them take it from here. Thank you. 2:54:27 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Good afternoon Honorable Senators. I'm Zahira Bell, Treasurer for the District of St. Thomas and St. John. We're requesting between $1 million and $5 million over the course of three years to build this ACA certified camp. This range accounts for shipping costs, material fluctuations, and the scale of our final designs phase one infrastructure and utilities this phase includes land clearing grading and building sustainable roads solar power installation to ensure renewable energy and rain water catchment systems for sustainable water supply this phase sets the foundation literally and figuratively for everything else phase two lodging and core facilities. Phase 2 includes the construction of 8 to 12 hurricane-proof cabins, five group platform tent areas, and multiple bare camping sites. A dining hall with a simple commercial kitchen for volunteer-led meal prep, and restrooms and shower units that meet ACA health standards. 2:55:20 We aim to keep these facilities minimal, but safe, durable, and comfortable. Phase 3, STEM STEM and Leadership Center. This phase includes a building for robotics, marine biology labs, and solar energy demos. Leadership classrooms where girls learn public speaking and teamwork. This center ensures our girls get hands-on STEM experiences that spark future careers. Phase 4, Adventure and Sustainability. This phase includes a high ropes course, zip line, archery range, or other confidence building activities. Conservation programs, like reforestation, beach cleanups, and composting stations. This final phase makes our camp truly engaging and inspiring for the girls. Without government support, we cannot secure the initial capital to break ground. Grants and private donations alone won't cover the full cost, especially given import fees for construction materials in the islands. Your support is the catalyst that ensures we can start building now, rather than waiting years. 2:56:21 Good afternoon, Honourable Senators. I'm Keely Schuster, Treasurer for the District of St. Croix. Our camp will run on a skeletal staff, just enough to handle essential duties like maintenance, safety and administration. The majority of our operations like cooking, guiding activities and teaching workshops will be handled by trained volunteers, including parents, community members and older Girl Scouts. This keeps overhead costs low. We'll rent out the camp to local schools and community groups for weekend retreats, sports clinics, or educational programs. This rental income will cover utilities, minor repairs, and expansions. Rentals can begin after phase two when camp structures are in place. We are actively working on securing grants for environmental and youth development programs. Additionally, local businesses have pledged in-kind donations for materials to support these initiatives. Our cookie sales and community fundraisers like a taste of Girl Scouts will be ongoing, contributing a portion of proceeds directly to camp maintenance. Being ACA certified also helps us qualify for additional grants and fosters parental trust which increases enrollment and potential revenue. ACA certification requires us to meet over 300 standards covering everything from food safety to emergency procedures ensuring top-tier quality your funding acts as a springboard once we build the core facilities the camp can start generating revenue becoming self-sustaining and continue to expand as needed without your support these revenue streams can't begin thank you Good afternoon Honourable Senators. I'm Aliyah Green and I serve as the Finance Director for 2:57:24 the U.S. Virgin Islands Girl Scouts in both the District of St. Croix and the District of St. Thomas and St. John. We've already raised about twenty thousand dollars through Girl Scout cookie sales and small donations. Local businesses have also promised ten thousand dollars in donated materials. We're applying for grants for outdoor education, STEM programs, and environmental sustainability. However, we can't move forward with large-scale construction until we secure a substantial initial investment which we hope will come from you. We plan to raise at least $25,000 through local community events over the next 12 months. Once phase one is underway, we'll ramp up corporate sponsorship drives, offering naming rights for certain facilities in exchange for larger donations. Now, Samara Santos and Asha Reimer from our community coordinating team will discuss how this camp benefits not only Girl Scouts, but the entire Virgin Islands community, including local non-profits, schools and families. 2:59:46 Good afternoon Honourable Senators. My name is Samara Santos and I serve as the Community Outreach Coordinator for the U.S. Virgin Islands Girl Scouts. This camp isn't just for Girl Scouts. It's a multi-purpose venue for local schools, churches, youth sports teams and other community organizations. They can rent a space for retreats, workshops or special events using our cabins, dining hall and outdoor classrooms we plan to incorporate virgin islands cultural traditions like local crafts storytelling and cultural music into camp programs this ensures our girls and visiting groups appreciate our island heritage we will also emphasize environmental stewardship teaching campers about marine ecosystems coral reef protection and sustainable farming Studies show that outdoor learning significantly improves children's learning, children's attention spans, academic performance, and social skills. By hosting workshops in forest trails, gardens, marine labs, we give kids a chance to connect classroom lessons to the real world applications, especially in STEM subjects. Because the camp is designed with hurricane-resistant structures, it can double as an emergency shelter for local families during storms or crises. 3:00:57 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session We will store basic emergency supplies and coordinate with local authorities to ensure swift community assistance. My colleague, Ashay Reimer, will now explain how we involve volunteers and keep the community engaged on a day-to-day basis. Good afternoon Honorable Senators, I'm Ashley Reimer and I serve as the Assistant Community Outreach Coordinator. Our camp will rely on a strong volunteer base, from parents and community members to older Girl Scouts who serve as mentors. Volunteers can cook meals, lead arts and crafts, guide hikes, teach STEM lessons, and more. This approach not only reduces operating costs, but also fosters a sense of community ownership. Volunteers gain leadership experience, CPR, first aid certification, and event planning skills. This benefits not just the camp, but the entire Virgin Islands, as volunteers bring these new skills back into the community. We'll host annual open house events where the community can visit the camp, see the facilities, and learn about conservation projects. We also plan to invite local artists and educators to run workshops, creating a vibrant exchange of knowledge. We're already in the talks with several local nonprofits that focus on marine preservation, literacy, and youth mentorship. By collaborating, we'll create joint programs that leverage each group's expertise and expand the camp's offerings. Now, Alia Joseph, our future camp director, will share the core experiences girls will have at camp and how those experiences go far beyond traditional camping. 3:02:31 Good afternoon, honorable senators. I'm Aliyah Joseph and I'll be your future camp director. This isn't just about tents and campfires. It's about empowering young women to lead, innovate, and thrive in all aspects of life. We have dedicated STEM labs for robotics, solar energy, and marine biology. Girls can program small robots, study coral reef ecosystems or build mini solar panels to understand renewable energy. We will also host leadership seminars, teaching public speaking, conflict resolution and team building. 3:04:41 Outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking and high rope courses promote physical fitness and mental well-being. Spending time in nature has proven to reduce stress and improve mental health. Campers will learn basic survival skills, like fire building, map reading, first aid, and giving them confidence and a sense of self-reliance. We'll also incorporate lessons on budgeting and entrepreneurship, tying back to the Girl Scouts' long tradition of cookie sales on financial literacy. Because we'll be ACA certified, we must meet strict safety and educational standards. Parents can trust that our staff and volunteers are well trained, our felicities are regularly inspected, and our programs meet national best practice for youth development. Finally, our project management team will walk you through the construction phases, timeline, equipment needs, and how we'll ensure everything runs smoothly. 3:05:26 Good afternoon Honorable Senators, my name is Aliana Prince and I serve as the Outdoor Educational Specialist for the U.S. Virgin Island Girl Scouts. I am excited to expand the ACA accreditation process and why it's so important. The American Camp Association standards requires us to go above and beyond typical safety and program guidelines covering everything from waterfront safety to staff training and emergency procedures. This ensures that every camp experience consistently high quality program. Research shows that accredited camps foster stronger skills and personal growth in youth. We are proud to uphold these standards so parents know their children are safe, structured environment that promotes both fun and learning. 3:06:39 Good afternoon, Honourable Senators. My name is Alia Hanson and I serve as the Environmentals Program Lead for the U.S. Virgin Islands Girl Scouts. I'd like to share some key facts about outdoor learning and play. Numerous studies indicate that children who engage in regular outdoor activities exhibit better problem-solving skills, improved attention spans, and higher levels of creativity. Time in nature also encourages an appreciation for our local ecosystem, particularly crucial here in the Virgin Islands, where marine and coastal environments are a vital part of our identity. By blending environmental education with hands-on activities, like replanting mangroves or monitoring coral reefs, campers not only gain practical science skills but also become part of an active Steward of our natural resources This holistic approach aligns perfectly with the Girl Scouts mission to build girls of courage Confidence and character who make the world a better place finally our project management team Will walk you through the construction phases timeline equipment needs on how we'll ensure everything runs smoothly Good afternoon, Honourable Senators. My name is Andrea Cornell and I'm the project manager. 3:07:38 Phase one of this project will take approximately one to three months and costs approximately $350,000. Key tasks during this phase includes land clearing and grading, will remove debris, level the ground and lay basic roads for safe access. This is crucial for equipment delivery and eventual volunteer traffic. Solar power and electrical grid setup. We'll plan to install solar panels on raised platforms to protect them from floods. This system will power lights, refrigeration and essential camp operations. Water catchment and filtration systems will set up rainwater tanks and filtration units. This also teaches campers about conservation. 3:09:12 Minimal equipment needed, bulldozers, excavators for grading. Basic construction tools, generators, water pumps, solar panels, inverters and batteries. Phase 1 is the foundation. If we can't fund roads, power and water, we can't build anything else. Government support ensures we can break ground safely and efficiently. Good afternoon Honourable Senators. I am 3:10:02 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Jovenique Saran and I serve as the Assistant project manager. Phase two of this project spans a period of six to twelve months with an estimated cost of 1.2 million dollars. Key tasks during this phase includes hurricane-proof cabins. We'll construct 8 to 12 cabins each sleeping around 20 girls using reinforced concrete and weather resistant roofing. Each cabin has simple bunk beds, screens for ventilation and emergency exits. Dine-in hall and kitchen. A large hall with a commercial grade kitchen that volunteers can operate. We'll include industrial stoves, refrigerators and pantries restoring donated goods, restrooms and showers. Separate units with septic system size for 200 plus people. This meets ACA health standards for cleanliness and waste management. Government funds here ensure we can properly outfit the cabins and kitchen to which sandstorms and safety codes. Good afternoon Honourable Senators. I am Akita Smith and I serve as the project coordinator. Phase three of this project spans a period of six to two months with an estimated cost of 1.5 million dollars. Key tasks during this phase includes STEM and Leadership Center. We'll build a multi-purpose lab with areas for robotics, marine biology like aquariums and small tanks, and renewable energy demonstrations. High ropes, zip line, and other adventure equipment. We'll install poles, cables, harnesses, safety mats, and other gear needed for a ropes course. All equipment will meet ACA and industry safety standards. Leadership classrooms and meeting spaces. These are small open-air pavilons or enclosed rooms for workshops, team-building exercises and presentations. Government funds here allow us to offer advanced programs that make our camp more than just a place to sleep. It becomes an educational powerhouse. If time and funds allow, phase four. We could expand with an archery range, a gardening center, or additional cabin if demand grows. Senators, we've shown you our plan. A camp that fosters leadership, environmental stewardship, and community pride. 3:11:47 This is more than just a construction project. It is a commitment to every young girl in the Virgin Islands who dreams of being a scientist, a teacher, a business leader, or even a Supreme Court justice. We're not just building cabins, we're building futures. Please, imagine the day we cut the ribbon on this camp. The laughter of girls exploring new trails. The excitement of building robots. The confidence of learning first aid. Picture them returning to their communities as stronger, kinder, more capable leaders. That's the gift you'll be giving our territory if you support us. We need your partnership to make this a reality. We've laid out the phases, the finances, and the volunteer model. 3:13:10 We just need that initial investment to break ground. Together, we can create a legacy of empowerment for generations of girls to come. On behalf of all of our Girl Scouts, parents, volunteers, and future campers, thank you for your time, your consideration, and your belief in our vision. We are ready to answer any questions you may have and look forward to working hand in hand with you to make this dream come true. Senator, are they finished? 3:14:04 Yes. Thank you. Senator Francis Heineger, you're recognized for your one minute. Senator Francis Heineger, you're recognized for your one minute. So we're going to do the same thing that we did from earlier. Senator Francis, you are recognized for your one minute. Senator Francis Heiliger, you are recognized for your one minute. Good afternoon to my colleagues and the testifiers. 3:14:55 This question is directed to testifier Andrea Carnell. Since the land is already acquired, how exactly will the money be allocated among the different phases. Senator, Senator with the land secured our funds will be directed toward developing essential infrastructures, roads, utilities, gratings, constructing safe weather resilient cabins and building supportive facilities like dining halls and educational centers. This phase approach ensures that we maintain quality and safety standards at every step thank you madam chair might have more time please you may proceed thank you my next question is directed to testifier as Shay Reimer what are your plans for community outreach to ensure that the camp they ensure that the benefits of the camp extend to the entire Virgin Islands population. Senator, our outreach strategy includes It's partnerships with local schools, community centers, and, oh, let's see, with local schools, oh, sorry, conferences and events at the camp. We envision the facility as a hub for environmental education, disaster preparedness training, and cultural exchanges that serve both Girl Scouts and the broader community. 3:15:30 Thank you, thank you. Senator Franklin D. Johnson, you are recognized for your one minute. This question is for Aliyah Joseph. What educational programs will be offered at the camp and how would they be structured? Senator, educational programs will include outdoor survival skills, environmental science, leadership training, and STEM workshops. 3:17:16 These programs are designed to be both hands-on and academically enriching, with modules tailored to different age groups. Interactive sessions, workshops, and team projects will ensure a comprehensive learning experience. Thank you. Senator DeWayne M. DeGraff, you are recognized for your one minute. Hello, good afternoon. Esteemed colleagues, I stand before you today in this vibrant chamber where hope sweet. I am representing Senator DeGraff once again. My question to Aliyah, my question is representing to Aliyah Hansen. What construction methods and materials will be used for the cabins to ensure durability in a tropical climate media team please recognize the mic senator the cabins will use a hybrid construction method combining locally sourced wood for a natural look with reinforced concrete foundation to withstand hurricanes and heavy rain they They will include insulated walls, proper ventilation, and safety features such as 3:17:56 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) 12 of 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session emergency exits and secure roofing designed to resist tropical storms. Thank you. Senator Elhiel Buquist, Jr., you are recognized for your one minute. This question is for Heaven Smith. What are the primary benefits of this car specifically for the Girl Scouts. Senator, this camp is a transformative space where Girl Scouts can learn leadership, teamwork, and resilience through hands-on experiences. It offers a safe, dedicated environment to build self-confidence and practical skills from outdoor survival techniques to STEM-based programs that are essential for their growth future success thank you senator Hubert L Frederick you are recognized for your one minute this question is for miss Walla what specific improvement will be made to the site's infrastructure and utilities senator we plan to invest in land clearing and grading building access roads and installing comprehensive utility systems such as electrical plumbing and sewage networks additionally there will be communication infrastructure high-speed internet emergency systems that is crucial for both daily operations and safety protocols thank you I have a follow-up question would it would it Can I include the solar panel energy? 3:19:22 Yes, thank you. Thank you. Senator Carla J. Joseph, you are recognized for your one minute. This question goes to Ms. Santos. How will the camp contribute to youth development and leadership training? Senator, by offering a range of programs from outdoor adventure activities to structured leadership workshop, the camp will help young women develop critical life skills. Activities like team challenges, environmental stewardship projects, and STEM education sessions are designed to foster independence and empower girls to take on leadership roles within their communities. 3:21:04 Thank you. Senator Nouvelle E. Francis, you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you. This question is for Ashay Reimer. What long-term economic benefits will this camp bring to the Virgin Islands? Senator, the camp will generate local jobs through construction and ongoing operations. 3:21:55 It will stimulate tourism by hosting regional events, retreats, and educational programs. Furthermore, its use as an emergency hub during disasters will enhance community resilience, indirectly boosting local economic stability and attracting further investment. Thank you. Senator Clifford A. Joseph, Sr., you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you. This question goes to Ms. Smith. How will the project incorporate sustainability and environmental protection into its design? And how do you feel about building a site on St. Croix? 3:22:32 Senator, we're committed to sustainability. The camp's design includes solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy efficient lighting. Materials will be chosen for their durability and low environmental impact. Additionally, our curriculum will educate campers on conservation, ensuring that the camp serves as a model for environmental stewardship. Thank you. Senator Rae Fonseca, you are recognized for your one minute. 3:23:24 Thank you, Madam Chair. This question is for Ms. Schuster. How will the camp be maintained and staffed on a regular basis? Senator, annual maintenance costs are estimated between $500,000 and $1 million, covering staffing, utility upkeep, repairs, and program costs. We plan to hire a dedicated team including a camp director, maintenance crew, kitchen staff and counselors. A portion of our funding will be allocated to an operational reserve to ensure financial stability. Thank you. Senator Johnson you are recognized for your point of information point of information this question is for miss Prince what measures are being implemented to make the camp resilient against natural disasters. Senator, we are incorporating disaster-resistant designs such as reinforced structures and elevated platforms. The site layout will include designated emergency zones and and assembly areas furthermore our utility installations are designed to withstand high winds and flooding ensuring the camp remains safe operation and operational during adverse weather events thank you senator maurice c james you're recognized for your one minute 3:23:57 point of information i would like point of information am I recognized yes I would like them to answer the question about how they feel about building a site on St. Croce. It's for all the testifiers. 3:25:45 As who specifically is it directed to? Any of the St. Thomas panel? Senator, we always support building camps on both islands. To support all our sister Scouts in the territory. Thank you. Thank you for your... Thank you. 3:26:56 Senator Maurice C. James, you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you. This question is for Makayla Walcott. what role will the Girl Scout organization play on a daily operation of the camp? Senator, the Girl Scouts organization will be directly involved in a camp's management and program delivery. We will oversee daily operations, coordinate educational activities, and ensure the camp adheres to our core values of empowerment and leadership. Our experienced staff and volunteers will manage all aspects of the camps function. Thank you. Thank you. Senator Kurt Viale, you're recognized for your one minute. 3:27:39 Good afternoon to the people of the Virgin Islands. This question is towards Ms. Joseph. How does the Girl Scout program align with Common Core standards and modern education methods. Senator, our Our program integrates practical projects like cookie seals for math skills, writing stories about adventures, and STEM challenges that foster critical thinking. 3:28:33 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) 13 of 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session These activities support the common core standards by teaching us to solve problems, communicate clearly, and work collaboratively. All essential skills for the future. Thank you. Senator Avery L. Lewis, you are recognized for your one minute. Thank you, Madam President. Good afternoon colleagues and good afternoon satisfiers. This question is from Samara Santos. How can this camp serve as a resource for the wider community during emergencies? Senator, in addition to being a learning and recreational facility, The camp is designed to function as an emergency shelter with reinforced structures, reliable utilities and plenty space. It can provide temporary housing, coordination centres and relief distribution points during natural disasters benefiting the entire community. 3:29:30 Thank you. Senator Kenneth L. Gittins, you are recognized for your one minute. Good afternoon. This question is for Jovanique Sorrent. What is the project timeline for completing the camp and the beginning operations? Senator, we anticipate that the camp will be fully operational within four to five years. With the land already secure, the next step involves infrastructure development, cabin construction and creation of community spaces. Each phase has been scheduled meticulously to ensure a smooth transition from construction to operation. 3:30:37 Thank you. Can you break down the overall, this question is for Zahaira Bell. Can you break down the overall cost of this camp project and explain how the total estimate of $1 million to $5 million is determined. Senator, our total estimated cost is between $1 million and $5 million. This sum is based on four main components. Infrastructure and utilities, cabin construction, community and learning spaces, and outdoor adventure, plus sustainability programs. Each estimate reflects current market prices for construction, materials, and labor in the Virgin Islands. 3:31:35 Thank you. Colleagues, we have finished our round of questioning. We will now move back into regular session to vote on the bill before us. Point of order, the bill before us does not have a number, I'm requesting a number, please. Legal counsel, please assign a bill number. Please recognize legal counsel Mike. 3:32:31 Madam President, the bill number is 36-00XX. may repeat please the bill number is 36-00 xx thank you thank you objection do i hear a motion Objection. Objection. Objection. Objection. Objection. 3:33:46 The motion was not proposed. Senator Viola, you are recognized for your objection. Senator Viola, you are recognized for your objection. It's up to you, because you're the senator. I would advise you. Can you tell me that you mean what you mean? What is your opinion? This is Senator Gittin. The motion was not proposed. it wasn't a motion it wasn't a motion it was a point of order in the maca cannot be issued yet the majority of the motion I move that BR-25-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0. 3:34:15 0, 0, be assigned a bill number. A motion is already on the floor. I shall move. Second. A motion is already on the floor. And a bill number already has been assigned. I don't believe it. 3:35:31 This is what I want to see. I don't care when we use. I'm second by getting. I mean, no, I said I just wanted to hear what my name is. We're asking that you withdraw your objection. We're asking that you withdraw your objection. Do you need to? Motion. You don't need to? There was one before us. I already have no money. Just rule it out of order. Out of order. He's out of order. I'm in the general. out of order points of order points of order um Haven Smith um point of order Haven Smith can you oh oh sorry point of order Senator Francis Heiliger you are recognized for your motion I have a point of order. 3:36:03 Point of order. You have a point of order? Senator Fonseca, you are recognized for your point of order. Senator Fonseca, you are recognized for your point of order. This question is for Haven Smith. Can you please expand on your testimony for St. Croix's campground? Objections. There is a motion on the floor that needs to be voted. Yeah, the motion is our motion to rebuild. 3:37:04 Okay, Senator Francis Heidegger, you are recognized for your motion. Oh, Senator Francis Heiliger, you are recognized for your motion. Thank you. I move bill number 36.00XX and act to recognize and support the efforts of the Girl Scouts USVI Incorporated in fostering leadership. in fostering leadership, community engagement, and educational development among young girls and to appropriate funding to ensure the continuation and expansion of these initiatives. I so move. Seconded by Senator, seconded by Senator, seconded by Senator, okay, properly moved by Senator Frances Heiliger, seconded by Senator Fronseca, roll call on bill number 36-00XR. 3:37:42 we didn't hear any objection we didn't hear an objection roll call roll call on bill number 36-00 roll call roll call on bill number 36-00xx Senator Marvin A. Blyden? Absent. Senator Angel L. Volquez? Senator Volquez? 3:38:53 Senator Volquez? Senator Dwayne M. DeGraff? Yes. Yes. Senator Ray Fonseca. Yes. Senator Novel E. Francis. Junior. Yay. Yay. 3:39:27 Senator Alma Francis Heiliger. Yes. Senator Hubert L. Frederick Yes. Senator Kenneth L. Gittins Yes. Senator Marie C. James Yes. Senator Franklin D. Johnson. 3:40:01 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session Yes. Senator Carla J. Joseph. Yes. Senator Clifford A. Joseph Senior. Yes. Senator Avery L. Lewis. Present. Yes. Yes. Senator Milton E. Potter. Yes. 3:40:42 Senator Kurt A. Vailet. Yes. Mr. President, 14 years, one absent. Senator, Mr. President, 14 years, one absent. Go ahead. 3:41:16 Colleagues, Bill number 36-00XX, an act to recognize and support the efforts of Girl Scouts, USVI, incorporated in fostering leadership, community engagement, and educational development among young girls, and to appropriate funds to ensure the continuation and expansion of these initiatives has been favorably voted upon in session by the members of the 36th legislation and will be forwarded to the governor for final approval. Point of personal privilege, requesting Haven Smith. 3:41:52 Senator DeGraff, you are recognized for your point of privilege. Point of personal privilege, requesting Haven Smith. At this time, I'd like to ask all of my sister Girl Scouts to join me on the Legislature on the floor. 3:42:45 information mr. mr. president just so that St. Croix can be in sync with what is taking place can you let us know exactly what's happening now so we can also participate what is happening a photo Mr. President, can one of the Girl Scouts let us know what is happening so you can give one of them the mic and then we can have the Girl Scouts and St. Croix also assembling the front and and also do the pledge I think it's a pledge you're going to do yes okay so can you wait with us and let one of them lead the Girl Scouts in in the middle for the pledge and if one person could leave from St. Thomas so we can all start together but it's one two three all Girls call to the middle, in the front. 3:43:46 Tell him to recognize the Vice President's mic. Come to the front here, the left face that way. Okay. I just want him to recognize this is the Vice President. Let him recognize this mic. Okay, have one. She needs to be in the, um, she needs to be in the, um, she needs to be in the, um, shh. 3:44:55 Okay. I'm hoping that they get her. Make our tree. It's supposed to be that way. Cause you know how you read the tree. Shhh. Listen, hello. Fix yourself. Do you need a president in that picture? Just a turn. Go around. You come to the alley. You? 3:45:31 Yes. Is it that way? Do you need her in this? Oh, young lady. I don't want to see him in the back row. Oh, yeah. Break it out. Right. 3:46:01 In the back of my hand. Oh. There you go, I'm behind, behind her too. [3 such phrases repeated 27 times · standby audio before the proceeding, transcribed by the recogniser as speech] 3:46:48 Okay, the young lady here in the end. No, hello, no, no, let me, let me do that for now. Okay. All right. Let me have your attention. Listen to me alone. Don't listen to anybody else. Look at me. Look at me. If you have to look above somebody, you have to look at the size of somebody, that individual alone will move them apart. You're not going to be able to move them apart. 3:47:28 Can we take a one-minute recess, please? Don't look at me. Can you see me? Yeah? That's okay. Will someone take a picture? We'll stand in recess for one minute. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. The session is back on the record. 3:48:08 Senators, as Girl Scouts, we challenge you to help make our dream a reality. We are just as deserving as Girl Scouts around the world who have access to the resources and opportunities that enrich their scouting experience. Yet, here on our island, many of these opportunities remain out of reach. By establishing this campsite, we will have the space and resources to grow, learn, and lead in ways that truly embody the spirit of scouting. It will empower us to develop essential skills, strengthen our community, and create lasting memories, just like our fellow Girl Scouts across the globe. 3:51:08 We ask for your support in making this vision a reality. Together, we can ensure that every Girl Scout in the U.S. Virgin Islands has the chance to experience the full power of scouting. We challenge you to help make our dream a reality. Ready? 3:52:02 We challenge you to take this dream a reality. The Girl Scout Mock Session of Friday, March 14, 2025 is hereby adjourned. 3:52:32 I just did it. Thank you. 3:53:32 Thank you. Thank you. 3:54:32 Oh, my God. Thank you. so so Thank you. 3:55:32 Thank you. 3:58:02 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 16 Legislature USVI · | Girl Scout Mock Session 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. 10x Senator Alma Francis-Heyliger the surname alone also matches: Alma Francis Heiliger heard in this transcript as: Alma Francis Heiliger, Frances Heiliger, Francis Heiliger, Heiliger 10x Senator Franklin D. Johnson heard in this transcript as: Franklin Johnson, Johnson 8x Senator Dwayne DeGraff heard in this transcript as: DeGraff, DeWayne M. DeGraff, Dwayne M. DeGraff 8x Senator Ray Fonseca heard in this transcript as: Fonseca, Fronseca, Rae Fonseca 5x Senator Angel L. Bolques, Jr. heard in this transcript as: Angel L. Bolques Jr., Angel L. Volquez, Bulquez, Volquez 5x Senator Kenneth L. Gittens heard in this transcript as: Gittens, Gittin, Kenneth L. Gittins 5x Senator Novelle Francis heard in this transcript as: Francis, Nouvelle E. Francis, Novel E. Francis 4x Senator Avery Lewis heard in this transcript as: Avery L. Lewis 4x Senator Marvin Blyden heard in this transcript as: Blyden, Marvin A. Blyden 3x Senator Carla Joseph heard in this transcript as: Carla J. Joseph 3x Senator Clifford A. Joseph Senior 3x Senator Clifford Joseph heard in this transcript as: Clifford A. Joseph, Clifford A. Joseph Sr. 3x Senator Kurt Vialet heard in this transcript as: Kurt A. Vailet, Kurt Viale 3x Senator Kurt Viola heard in this transcript as: Viola 3x Senator Milton E. Potter 2x Senator Francis Heidegger 2x Senator Francis Junior the surname alone also matches: Nova Lee Francis Junior heard in this transcript as: Junior 2x Senator Hubert Frederick heard in this transcript as: Hubert L. Frederick 2x Senator Karla J. Joseph the surname alone also matches: Carla Joseph; Clifford Joseph 2x Senator Kenneth L. Gittins Yes 2x Senator Kurt VLA heard in this transcript as: BLA 2x Senator Marie C. James Yes 2x Senator Marise C. James heard in this transcript as: Maurice C. James 1x Senator Angel Boquist heard in this transcript as: Angel Buquist Jr. 1x Senator Angel L. Bullquist Jr 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 16