February 9, 2026  
The Honorable Senator Avery Lewis 
Thirty (36th) Legislature of the Virgin Islands  
Capitol Building  
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802  
 
Re: Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection 
Bill No. 36-0225:Honoring Sharon Maria Williams 
Good morning, Chairman of the Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and 
Consumer Protection, the Honorable Senator Avery L. Lewis; distinguished members of the 
Committee; Senators of the 36th Legislature of the United States Virgin Islands; legislative staff; 
members of the media; and the listening and viewing public. 
Pursuant to your invitation, on behalf of the Department of Tourism, we are pleased to provide 
testimony regarding Bill No. 36-0225, honoring Sharon Maria Williams. 
Food is undeniably a cornerstone of our culture here in the Virgin Islands, and dedicated stewards 
of the culinary tradition, such as Ms. Sharon Maria Williams, play a vital role in preserving and 
celebrating our heritage. From nourishing families and neighbors to welcoming visiting guests, 
the use of food to tell our story enriches the Virgin Islands experience. Through these authentic 
expressions of culture, our islands have earned recognition as a premier culinary destination 
rooted in the richness of our local purveyors and traditions. 
It is an honor to support the recognition of Ms. Williams, and we thank her for her commitment to 
preserving, uplifting, and strengthening our community through the power of food.