ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection, chaired by Senator Avery L. Lewis, convened at the Capitol Building to advance measures recognizing cultural and community contributions in the Virgin Islands. Lawmakers voted favorably on two resolutions honoring James Sasso for his service in funeral care and Sonya Hough for her creation of the iconic Crucian Hook Bracelet. Meanwhile, a bill proposing the establishment of the Virgin Islands Meteorological Office was held in committee. The approved items on the agenda will be forwarded to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.  

Senator Lewis commended the honorees and emphasized recognizing individuals dedicated to service and cultural preservation. He noted that James Sasso’s seventeen years in the mortuary and funeral industry reflect a deep commitment to supporting families during their most vulnerable moments. He also highlighted Sonya Hough’s lasting impact on Virgin Islands culture and entrepreneurship through the creation of the Crucian Hook Bracelet, a symbol of pride and identity for many in the territory. 

Bill No. 36-0007, a Resolution honoring and commending James Sasso for his distinguished service in the mortuary and funeral services industry, received strong support from lawmakers. The sponsor, Senator Angel Bolques, Jr., described Sasso as compassionate and caring, emphasizing funeral directors’ vital role in providing structure and support during grief. Bernice Turnbull acknowledged the dignified nature of Sasso’s services and highlighted his extraordinary care during burial rites, noting his consistent respect for the deceased. 

Similarly, Jelani Sasso reflected on the emotional support Uncle James Sasso offers grieving families, recognizing his blend of professional expertise and heartfelt understanding. In a humble response, James Sasso expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating that although he is often a man of many words, he was at a loss on this occasion. Sasso emphasized that he does not seek recognition, as he is simply doing his job, and thanked those who made the resolution possible. Senator Lewis inquired about how many years Sasso had been in the funeral business. In response, Sasso stated that he had been in the Mortuary and Funeral Industry for seventeen years. 

Bill No. 36-0029- A Resolution honoring and commending Sonya Hough, the creator of the St. Croix “Crucian” Hook Bracelet and proprietor of one of the first hand-wrought jewelry stores in St. Croix. The Sponsor of the bill, Senator Kenneth L. Gittens, stated that the Crucian Hook Bracelet is more than a piece of jewelry; it is a statement of identity worldwide. 

“I believe in giving people their flowers while they are still alive. Today, I was honored to support both resolutions to honor Virgin Islanders on the agenda. Unfortunately, Ms. Sonya Hough is not alive to receive her flowers. Still, her legacy lives on through her dynamic family and their continued contribution to the Virgin Islands,” says Senator Lewis. 

Lastly, policymakers voted to hold in committee: for Bill No. 36-0026- An Act amending Title 23 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 10 by adding a subchapter VI to establish the “Virgin Islands Meteorological Office” within the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency. Sponsor of the bill Senator Ray Fonseca stated that let’s take a bold step forward to secure data and to track weather in the Virgin Islands actively. Sharing the benefits, VITEMA Assistant Director Ovid Williams indicated that adding meteorologists to the VITEMA team will enhance local weather observations and provide critical technical input to the San Juan National Weather Service. This will allow for earlier severe weather warnings across St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island via Alert VI, the NWS Wireless Emergency Alert System, and NOAA’s 24-hour weather radio at 162.475 MHz from the St. Thomas tower. 

Senator Lewis added, “I believe we had a great discussion today as it relates to establishing a meteorological office in the Virgin Islands. It can bring a new industry to the Virgin Islands—new jobs, skill sets, and expansion of services to our residents, but we must be able to sustain it. I look forward to additional conversations on this measure as it was held in committee today.”

Senators in attendance included Avery Lewis, Ray Fonseca, Jr., Carla J. Joseph, Novelle E. Francis, Jr., Franklin D. Johnson, Kenneth L. Gittens, and Alma Francis Heyliger. Non-committee member, Angel L. Bolques was also present.

The Division of Public Affairs remains committed to informing the public on legislative proceedings and health-related developments. For more information, visit legvi.org. 

PRESS CONTACT: AFRICAH N.T. HARRIGAN

EMAIL: AHARRIGAN@LEGVI.ORG