VI UPDATE
U.S. Virgin Islands Public Records
TRANSCRIPT OF PUBLIC PROCEEDINGS
Committee on Rules and Judiciary2
Legislature USVI
July 13, 2023 · 1.0 hours · gov
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Senator Marie C. James, Senator James absent, Senator Franklin D. Johnson, Senator Franklin D. Johnson absent, not
voting, Senator Carla J. Joseph, Senator Joseph yes, Senator Milton E. Potter, Senator Potter yes, Madam Chair you have
four yes, two no, one absent. Thank you, Madam Clerk, bill number 35-0078, an act requiring the Commissioner of
Department of Tourism to conduct a survey to assist in the establishment of an official dish and dessert of the Virgin
Islands, has been voted upon favourably by this committee and will be reported out of this committee to the full body for
further consideration. Colleagues, this concludes our second block of bills.
0:00:00
Senator Johnson, you wanted mayonnaise sauce instead of boiled fish. I'll tell you, Senators, we will then proceed to
block number three, who, it would be block number four technically yes, who speaks on bill number 35-0029. Senator
Gittins: Senator Gittins, you may proceed with your synopsis.
0:01:26
Two minutes. Senator Gittins: Thank you, Madam Chair and colleagues, on behalf of Senator President Noveli Francis,
Jr., thank you for the opportunity to speak on bill number 35-0029, which honours and commends Donna M. Christian
Christensen, MD, for her contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the medical field and representation in the
United States Congress. Senator Gittins: This bill will also rename the Charles Howard Memorial Complex once
demolished and rebuilt as the Donna M. Christian Christensen, MD, Virgin Islands Department of Health. Initially, I
believe the discussion was to name it the Donna M. Christian Christensen, MD, Virgin Islands Department of Public
Health. Senator Gittins: However, the Virgin Islands Code, under Titles 3 and Title 19, the official name of the
department is the Department of Health. This bill will, this bill was the brainchild of our friends and partners at the
Department of Health and other advocates in the community. I was happy to join this initiative by sponsoring this bill.
0:02:06
Senator Gittins: Donna Christensen is a doctor, mother, grandmother, public health, and political leader and mentor. She
has a legacy of firsts as the first female physician in Congress, the first woman to represent an offshore territory in
Congress, and the first woman delegate from the United States Virgin Islands. Senator Gittins: For many, their first
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introduction to Donna was that she's your doctor. She operated a family practice office from 1975 to 1996, while also
serving in the Virgin Islands Department of Health in the emergency room and in maternal and child health. Senator
Gittins: Throughout her medical and political career, she was acutely aware of the challenges experienced by our
community in accessing quality health care. Senator Gittins: This informed her advocacy in Congress. Senator Gittins: A
recent designation, I'll cut it short, hospital once built will be a beautiful piece to the Christianset corridor, bill number 35,
that's 0029 proposes that the newly rebuilt complex be named in her honour in recognition of her contributions to the
people of the territory, in the medical field, and in the halls of Congress.
Senator Gittins: I ask for your support as we move this measure forward. Senator Gittins: Thank you very much, Senator
Gittins. Who speaks to bill number 35.0033? Senator Gittins: Senator Bolquez, you're recognized for your introduction.
Senator Bolquez: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Senator Gittins: Mr. Chair, I rise in support of Bill number 35-0033 and act
honouring and commending Mr. Ben-Burin Benny-Stevens posthumously for his heroism in saving the lives of a mother
and her children and to rename the Bovoni Road, route number 30, specifically from the entrance of the abattoir to the
entrance of B.C. Bertha C. Buschelty Middle School, the Ben-Burin Benny-Stevens Drive.
0:04:57
Thank you, Madam Chair. Senator Bolquez: Thank you, Senator Bolquez. Senator Gittins: Who speaks on bill number
35-0035? Senator Gittins: I do. Senator Gittins: You may proceed, Senator Johnson. Senator Johnson: Thank you very
much, Madam Chair. Bill number 35-0035 is a very straightforward bill. And I met with the Veterans Dem some time
back and discussed this matter. Senator Fairs automatically went and put the disabled handicap in the plates for the
disabled veterans. It was not did in the proper manner by law. They stopped them from putting that disabled emblem in
the plates. Had this long meeting with some veterans up in Legion Hall in Christianstead. They explained it to me. I
reached out to the Veteran of Fear and he told me that's exactly what happened. They just went and do it without any law,
without any legislation.
0:05:55
Senator Gittins: They would like to have it back. In discussion with DMV director, she's indicated the same thing. So
basically, it's a very straightforward bill. All we're really doing is making sure that our veterans who solved and was
disabled and got disabled can put that on the plate and be proud to say that they serve this territory, they serve the nation,
and at some point they got disabled in this time of service to be flashed on their license plate. And basically, that's what
this measure do. And once passed, and I'm asking for your support in passing this measure to make sure that our veterans
who did serve can be proud of their service, also proud of what they did to keep this great country alive. Thank you very
much, Madam Chair. Thank you. You're welcome, Senator Johnson. Who speaks on Bill 35.0041? Senator Gittins?
Senator Gittins: I do.
0:06:55
Senator Gittins: You may proceed. Senator Gittins: Thank you, Madam Chair and colleagues. I offer Bill 35.0041 to the
Committee on Rules and Judiciary today. This awards the Virgin Islands Medal of Honour to the late Edgar Milton Iles
for his extensive community service and many contributions to the development of our territory. The Virgin Islands
Medal of Honour for public service is to be awarded to a person that has rendered outstanding service to the people of the
Virgin Islands under Title I, Section 103 of the Virgin Islands Code. If you heard yesterday's testifiers, you would better
understand that the people of the Virgin Islands have been awarded to the people of the Virgin Islands under Title I,
Section 103 of the Virgin Islands Code. Senator Gittins: If you heard yesterday's testifiers, you would better understand
the significant positive impact that Senator Iles had on the Virgin Islands, and particularly on the island of St. Croix, and
know that he is most deserving of this honour. In addition to serving in the 14th, 15th, 17th, and 18th Legislature of the
Virgin Islands, Senator Iles was a veteran and had extensive involvement in numerous youth and community
organizations to include being president of the Virgin Islands Olympic Committee for many years. Senator Iles served
our community well throughout his entire life, and he is most deserving of the Virgin Islands Medal of Honour and to be
formally recognized for all he contributed. So I ask for your support here today as we bestow the Virgin Islands Medal of
Honour on his family.
0:07:49
Thank you. Thank you, Senator Gittins. Who speaks on Bill number 35-0100? Senator Carreon, you may proceed. Two
minutes. Senator Carreon: Thank you, Madam Chair. Senator Carreon: I rise to present Bill 35-0100, a resolution
honoring commending Music and Motion School of Higher Education, and its founder, Charlita Schuster, on the occasion
of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Music and Motion Dance Academy. Senator Carreon: The Music and
Motion Dance Academy was established in 1983 on the island of St. Croix in the Virgin Islands. Its founder, Charlita
Schuster, at the age of 25 years old, made the bold decision to come back from New York to St. Croix to officially open
her dance school with a total of five students. Senator Carreon: Later, she renamed the school Music and Motion School
of Higher Dance Education for the reason was she wanted to educate the community that dance is an educational
development, not just something for fun. Senator Carreon: Music and Motion School of Higher Education was designed
to train students in various styles, including classic ballet, modern dance, tap, quadrille, African and Latin dance.
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Senator Carreon: Also orchestrated various yearly performance and shows and showcases the skills of students they
taught during the year. Senator Carreon: She has trained some of the best classic ballet dancers, performers and stage and
movie entertainers, along with skilled gymnasium and in other areas. Senator Carreon: Her students have traveled to
Denmark, Antigua and Martins and kids in other Caribbean islands to perform. Senator Carreon: Numerous of her
students have gone on to prestigious institutions and won numerous international titles and awards in the territory.
Senator Carreon: She has really transformed the lives of many, many, many people in the Virgin Islands through the arts
and dance. Senator Carreon: So I asked my colleagues to vote verbally today in support of this measure. Senator Carreon:
Thank you, Madam Chair.
0:11:04
Senator Carreon: Thank you, Senator Carreon. Senator Carreon: Senator Carreon: Who speaks on bill number 35-0101.
Senator Carreon: I do. Senator Carreon: Senator Franklin D. Johnson, you may proceed. Senator Franklin D. Johnson:
Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Senator Franklin D. Johnson: I was just getting choked there for a minute. Bill
number 35-0101, a resolution honoring and commending Dr. Olaf Bronco Hendricks for his tireless years of remarkable
and invaluable contribution to the people of the Virgin Islands in the field of psychiatry. Bill number 35-0101, his
advocacy for social injustice for individuals with behavioral health and substance abuse, and for his music. Bill number
35-0101, immediately after completing his residency in 1974, Dr. Hendricks returned to the Virgin Islands and provided
psychiatric service for the Division of Mental Health at the Charles Howard Memorial Hospital. Bill number 35-0101, the
Richmond Penitentiary and his Hope Detention Facility now Golden Grove Correction Policy and the Governor Wang
Lewis Hospital. Bill number 35-0101, he also provided psychiatric service to almost all public and private schools and St.
Croix and many churches.
0:11:52
Bill number 35-0101, whereas Dr. Hendricks served as medical director and territorial psychiatrist at the Bureau of
Corrections beginning in 1974 and the Director of Mental Health, Alcoholic and Drug Dependency Service for several
years. Bill number 35-011, he served as the only psychiatrist at the St. Croix Hospital, now the Governor Wang Lewis
Hospital and Medical Center from 1983 to 1996. Bill number 35-0101, he served as chief medical officer from 2007 to
2009 and remained a staff psychiatric at the hospital until 2011. Bill number 35-011, Dr. Hendricks have paid his due to
this community even up to today. If you meet Dr. Hendricks, he will definitely ask you, "How are you doing?" This is an
honor that gave me so much privilege and honor to just be a part of making sure that this great gentleman gets his due
while he's standing on the face of the sun. I ask for your support in this measure and to vote in the formative at the
appropriate time. Thank you very much Madam Chair.
0:13:09
Thank you. Colleagues, we will proceed with a three-minute round. If you have anything that you wanted to put on
record, this is your time for this block of bills that we have before us. So, Senator Bolkis, you may proceed. Three
minutes. Thank you Madam Chair. Madam Chair, I rise in support of all of the measures before us, but specifically I'd
like to start by supporting or showing the importance of instituting a national dish and dessert which can serve several
purposes and bring various benefits such as cultural identity, tourism and promotion, cultural heritage preservation,
economic opportunities, international recognition, and cultural education and awareness. Let us embrace the power of a
national dish and dessert.
0:14:13
By establishing this culinary symbol, we can celebrate all of the above and it would invoke another opportunity for the
Department of Tourism to market our territory. Concerning a Virgin Islands Governor's Day, honoring public service is
something that we should do. Just like any other honoree on this block. Civic education. I apologize.
0:15:19
Just, uh, Senator? You may proceed. I apologize. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures
in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the
measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all
of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I
support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this
block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures
in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the
measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all
of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I
support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this
block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures
in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support all of the measures in this block. I support the definition
and expansion of our disabled veterans. One minute. In addition to the resolution honoring and commending Dr. Olaf
Branko Hendricks for his tireless years of remarkable and invaluable contributions. And also, of course, honoring Ms.
Sherlita Schuster, Music in Motion Dance Academy, has been a significant contributor to the cultural enrichment of the
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community for decades. By honoring her and commending her for her work, this resolution recognizes her dedication to
promoting the art of dance and providing opportunities on artistic expression and cultural exploration. Madam Chair,
thank you for the time.
Thank you, Senator Boghiz. Senator Franklin D. Johnson, you may proceed with three minutes. Thank you very much,
Madam Chair. I had the honor yesterday of looking at four of these measures. And all four of them was touching bill
number 350029. Honoring and commending Donna Marie Christensen. Bill number 350035. Bill number 350041.
Honoring Mr. Iles Post-Homelessly. A gentleman who definitely deserved that honor.
0:17:17
Bill number 350100. Resolution honoring Music in Motion, a group that's been in existence and still is supporting young
men and women in just their positive outlook in this community. Bill number 35, 0101, honor and commending Dr. Olaf
Bronco Hendricks. Yesterday was a very emotional day with all four of these resolutions and I definitely thank all the
sponsors that brought these measures to the floor because we need to make sure that we recognize our people when they
do just right to us. And Bill number 35, that's 003, and act honoring and commending Mr. Ben Bern, Benny Stephenson,
definitely will support that measure too. And as I said, all of these measures are well dissolving and at the appropriate
time, I will be voting in the affirmative for all of these measures. Thank you very much, Madam Chair. You can use the
rest of my time for Madam Secretary who always need time. Thank you Senator Johnson and Senator Carla Joseph. You
may proceed with three minutes. Thank you kindly, Madam Chair. I use my time wisely.
0:17:53
Now, I would like to really commend all of the bill sponsors in this block. I had the opportunity to sit as the chairperson
of the committee, which five out of six of these bills were properly introduced and vetted. We had a number of testifiers
that came through to discuss these resolutions and I believe four of them were on the agenda yesterday. Well,
specifically, I want to begin and really commend the bill sponsors for the bill number 35. That's 0100, Senator Carrion,
because it showed an element of education, especially when Miss Schuster spoke about her own personal testimony of
not doing well in school. And she was able to overcome her ability with reading and comprehension through dance and
what her parents did to really help her overcome that challenge and it helped improve her academic achievements. I also
want to mention Ben Buren, Benny Stevens, and he is also commended. I had the occasion to have a really robust
discussion here with members of his family and other individuals.
0:19:22
And of course, he's from the Bovoni area. So, you know, I got to be there to support. I also supported Mr. Edgar Isles.
That's bill number 35-0041. And I knew this gentleman, this tall giant of a man. And I stand in support. I've even signed
on to co-sponsor. As well as Mr. Dr. Olaf Bronco Hendricks. I know of his work. Also, both of those two gentlemen are
avid horsemen and an avid horse enthusiast, horse racing enthusiast. And so, I stand in support. Finally, and last but not
definitely least, is the Honorable Donna Marie Christian Christensen, MD. I stand in support of this bill. In fact, I will be
enhancing it with an amendment to convey the Medal of Honor, the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor, on her at the
appropriate time. I really appreciate all that all of these individuals have done to improve and enhance our community
over the year. Thank you kindly, Madam Chair, for the time. And I used some of Senator Johnson's time. Thank you
kindly. Thank you, Senator Joseph. Senator Milton Potter, you may proceed.
0:21:09
Three minutes. Thank you very much. I rise in support of all of the items here in block number four, final block of the
day. Yesterday, as my colleagues before me mentioned, we had the honor of hearing the resolutions for Donna Marie
Christian Christensen, MD, as well as Dr. Olaf Branko Hendricks, as well as, I think there's at least one more, Music in
Motion, and Charlita Schuster. I think it was a very moving and warm day and opportunity for Virgin Islanders to
highlight their own, like I always say, progressive societies honor, and commend, and support their own for
demonstrating excellence in their various fields of expertise. And for sure, the individuals in this category all meet the
bill. Donna Christensen has served as our delegate to Congress, well-known, well-respected on the Hill, well-respected
physician, community activist. Without question, the Medal of Honor and highlighting her achievements, it is certainly
well-deserved. Mr. Benny Stevens, his family was here several, maybe several months ago, and we also had a real great
opportunity to reflect back on his heroism in saving the lives of a mother and their family. When we see fire, we look in
the opposite direction, and this gentleman ran towards, you know, this danger, and was able to save the lives of these
individuals. And for that, you know, he is well-deserving of our recognition and honor. We also recognize, I forgot,
Senator Edgar Milton Iles, my namesake. He was, he will receive the Medal of Honor posthumously for his service to the
people of the Virgin Islands, having served successive terms as an elected senator, I think president of Rotary, head of the
Olympic Committee. When you talk about public service, you talk about Senator Edgar Iles. So his achievements were
certainly very noteworthy, and at the appropriate time, Madam Chair, I will vote affirmatively for all of the items in this
block, I think I forgot the bill number 35.0035, the Disabled Veterans Amendment. Time. I am also very supportive of
that. These veterans have earned the right to be recognized for being disabled in service of our freedoms. Thank you very
much, Madam Chair.
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Thank you, Senator Potter. Now, I will proceed with Senator Kenneth Gittins on St. Croix. You may proceed, three
minutes. Senator Kenneth Gittins: Thank you, Madam Chair, and good afternoon. Yesterday's hearing, again, was one
that I will describe as noteworthy and outstanding. Heads off to all the bill sponsors and the committee chair who held a
good hearing. The information and all the honorees, from beginning to end, were enlightening, educational and jovial.
From Dr. Christensen, to Mr. Stevens, to Senator Iles, former Senator Iles, and Dr. Hendricks. The only thing I didn't get
to ask Dr. Hendricks, with all the jokes he was given yesterday, was where did they get the name Olaf from? Because I
don't think that I have heard anyone else with that name. And it just came out to me as I heard the previous speaker
bragging again that his name is also Milton. Senator Kenneth Gittins: However, colleagues, I want to note, as I will, as I
intend to vote in the affirmative on all these measures, that as I seek to move bill number 35, that's 0029, which is the
resolution to honor and commend Dr. Dana M. Christensen, that I'll make a technical amendment to remove the word
public from section, in section three and section four.
0:25:58
And it would automatically erase it in the bill summary as well. But again, just to remind you, it states that the
demolished building shall be renamed the Dana M. Christian Christensen M. D. Virgin. The Virgin Islands Department
of Public Health, but the correct name is the Virgin Islands Department of Health. So we will be striking just the word
public.
0:28:02
Thank you. And I look forward to supporting all these measures before us. Thank you, Madam Chair. Congratulations
again to all. Thank you, Senator Gittins. And I will now recognize non-committee member, Senator Ray Fonseca. You
may proceed with three minutes. Yes, blessings and thank you. And I am so privileged, Madam Chair, that I have this
opportunity. I'm humbled and extremely honored to ask my colleagues to support bill number 35-0033. You know, Mr.
Ben Bourne-Stevens was born in the British Virgin Islands, but he made the U.S. Virgin Islands his home. He resided in
the Savan community, and I'm a born Savanero. And so, yes, I claim Mr. Stevens as a Savanero like myself and his
children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren. We're all Savaneros. You know, Madam Chair, I have a letter here. It's
dated February 12th, 1987. It's from the White House, Washington, D.C., and it's signed by President Ronald Reagan.
And the letter says, "Dear Mr. Stevens, word has reached the White House of your heroism in rescuing Janice Daniel and
her five children from their burning house. Your deed demonstrated the finest qualities a human being can possess.
Selfishness and a willingness to assume risk for the sake of others. By reaching out to help your fellow man in time of
need, you have proved that a caring and concerned individual can truly make all the difference. Your example reflects
great credit on your family and your community. And I am pleased to tell you of my pride in you as well. Nancy Reagan
joins me in sending you our best wishes for every future endeavor. God bless you, Mr. Stevens. Sincerely, Ronald
Reagan, President of the United States. And I would ask my colleagues to please support this bill and thank you very
much for your time. Thank you, Senator Fonseca. Colleagues, now I would, I guess, take my three minutes.
0:28:31
I support these measures in this block and I commend all the bill sponsors on the legislation that we have before us today.
Oh, Senator Carrion, oh, forgive me. You may proceed with three minutes. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair. And
I'm not a committee member, but I wanted to be here also. I have one of the bills that the resolutions that are before us.
And also rise in support of all the measures in this block of bill number 35.0029, honoring and commending Donna
Marie Christian, Christensen, MD, for her tireless contributions to the people of Virgin Islands in the medical field, but
also as our representative in Congress. Very well deserved. We had the opportunity to hear testimonies yesterday on her
behalf, as well as hear testimony yesterday on behalf of Senator, former Senator Edgar, Edgar Isles, a gentle giant, a state
man who served the people of St. Croix and the Virgin Islands for many years. I think he was four times Senator in the
Virgin Islands. So it's well deserved in his honor. Also, Charlita, Charlita Schuster, who I happen to be the sponsor of this
resolution, honoring, commending Music in Motion School of Higher Dance Education, and its founder, Charlita
Schuster, on the occasion of celebrating 40th anniversary of the establishment of the School Music in Motion Dance
Academy. And to celebrate 40 years of anything these days, it's an accomplishment. And she's been giving back to the
community, serving, and touching the lives of so many young people. We heard yesterday testimonies of individuals that
she impacted in a positive way, and they testify that their life today is what it is because of her, and because of the time
that she took, because of the influence she was in their lives, and the encouragement that she was for them. So we thank
Charlita for her service to our community, and we recognize her also.
0:31:22
One minute. And asking my colleagues to support in voting favorably for Bill 35.0100, but also Bill 35.0101,
commending and honoring Dr. Olaf Hendricks, known as Bronco, who has also, for many years, served our community.
And contributed to the people of Virgin Islands and contributed to the people of Virgin Islands in the field of psychiatry.
And not only that, push when it came to, was an advocate when it came to social justice for individuals with behavior,
health, and substance abuse issues. And at times, he was the only one in the territory serving in J.F.L. Juana Fluid
Hospital and the Department of Health in this area. So we thank him for his time of service and his contributions, not
only in the field of medicine, but also in the field of our cultural heritage. Time. So I will be voting favorably on these
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measures in session since I'm not committee member here.
Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Thank you, Senator Carrion. Thank you, Senator Carrion. At this time, I will ask
for my two minutes. I am in support of Bill number 35-0029. I had the opportunity of attending the government
operations meeting, which I'm not a committee member of. But I thought it was necessary to just say that Donna
Christian Christiansen, who has been in the field of medicine, she's been my family practitioner back in the day. I know
her affiliated through the political arena, and she's made her mock in this territory. So I am in support of that bill.
0:34:49
Bill number 35-0033, an act commending Mr. Ben Burren, Benny Stevens, who I don't know, but based on my
colleagues talking about his heroism, I am in support of that. Bill number 35-0035, I am a big advocate for people who
are disabled, especially our disabled veterans. I find in the territory, when we have these designated parking spaces for
individuals with disabilities, we have too many people disrespecting that need of, of not parking in these particular areas.
So I am in full support of this piece of legislation. Bill number 35-0041, in honour, honouring former Senator Edgar
Milton Isles.
0:35:38
I had the opportunity to hear the testimony from his three children who I know, and they sat yesterday proudly to talk
about their father and his good deeds in this community. I described him as a gentle giant. Bill number 35-01-00, I just
want to say thank you to Charlita Shusta, Music in Motion, because you've shown your dedication to your children for
them to express themselves through dance. I thank you. Bill number 35-01-00, resolution for Dr. Olaf Bronco Hendricks.
He's an awesome man, and despite of your disabilities of polio, you've overcome many hurdles in your life. And I
commend you. I honor you. I think you rock in my book, Dr. Hendricks. And I just want to say that yes, we do have a lot
of resolutions, but we have individuals in our community that have done exceptionally well, and we do have to recognize
them. So this concludes our questions, answers, comments in block number four. Senator Joseph, are you ready to
proceed with your amendment? Yes.
0:36:43
Amendment. Do I hear amendment? Senator Joseph, you may proceed. Yes. Thank you so kindly, Madam Chair. Madam
Chair and colleagues, I move amendment, make a motion to move amendment number 35-350, and the amendment is
offered to Bill number 35-0029 by myself, and it reads, Bill number 35-0029 is amended as follows. A. Section 2 is
re-designated as Section 5 and is amended by inserting and the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor after ACK. B. Section 3
and 4 are re-designated as Section 2 and 3, respectively.
0:38:16
C. Section 5 is re-designated as Section 6, and D. A new Section 4 is inserted that reads as follows. Section 4, "Pursuant
to Title I, Virgin Islands Code, Chapter 7, Section 103, the 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, on behalf of the people
of the Virgin Islands, honor Donna M. Christian Christensen, M.D., by awarding her the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor
in recognition of her outstanding in recognition of her outstanding public service to the people of the Virgin Islands. I so
move." Properly moved and seconded.
0:39:19
Properly moved by Senator Joseph and seconded by Senator Bolquez. "Hearing no objection to this amendment, it is so
ordered." "Roll call and motion for the amendment on Bill number 35-0029." "Motion." "Motion." "Motion." "Motion."
0:40:12
"Motion." "Senator Gittens." "Madam, dear and colleagues, bill number 35-0029, an act honoring and commending
Donna Marie Christensen, M.D., for her tireless contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the medical field and
representation." "In the United States Congress in the United States Congress. "As amended, be voted upon by the U.S.
Congress. "As amended, be voted upon to be voted upon for the Virgin Islands in the United States Congress." "As
amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee." "As amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee." "As
amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee." "With the technical amendments of removing those words, the
word public in section, in the current section three and section one." "As amended, be voted upon favorably in this
committee." "As amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee." "As amended, be voted upon favorably in this
committee." "As amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee."
0:40:44
"As amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee." "As amended, be voted upon favorably in this committee."
"As amended, be voted upon favorably here in the rules and judiciary committee." "As amended, be voted upon favorably
here in the rules and judiciary committee." "And be forwarded to the full body for further and final consideration." "I so
move." "Properly moved by Senator Gittins and seconded by Senator Carla Joseph and Senator Potter." "Hearing no
objection, no objections to..." "Sorry, roll call on the amendment, technical amendment." "No, roll call on the bill." "Roll
call on the bill."
0:41:20
"As amended." "As amended." "As amended." "Yes." "Senator Angel L. Bulkes Jr." "Yes." "Senator Bulkes Jr., yes."
"Senator Dianne T. Capehart." "Yes." "Senator Capehart, yes." "Senator Kenneth L. Gittins." "Yes. "Senator Gittins,
yes." "Senator Gittins, yes." "Senator Dianne T. Capehart." "Yes." "Senator Capehart, yes." "Senator Kenneth L. Gittins."
"Yes." "Senator Gittins, yes." "Senator Gittins, yes." "Senator Maurice C. James." "Senator James absent." "Senator
0:42:06
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Franklin D. Johnson." "Yes." "Senator Johnson, yes." "Senator Kala J. Joseph." "Yes." "Senator Joseph, yes." "Senator
Milton E. Potter." "Yes." "Senator Potter, yes." "Madam Chair, you have six yes." "One absent." "The...
"The amendment has been voted upon favorably." "The bill has been voted upon favorably and sent to the... "Yes."
0:42:42
"Hold on, I'm looking for it." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "As amended,
bill number 35-0029, an act honoring and commending Donna Marie Christensen, MD, for her tireless contributions to
the people of the Virgin Islands, medical field and representation the United States Congress sponsored by Senator..."
"No, I don't need to say that." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm."
0:43:10
"Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." "Hm." thank you madam chair madam chair i move that bill number 35-0033 an act
honoring and commending mr ben buren benny stevens post humously for his heroism in saving the lives of a mother and
her children and to rename the bovoni road route number 30 specifically from the entrance of the abattoir to the entrance
of the bertha c bushelter middle school the ben buren benny stevens drive be favorably voted upon in this committee and
reported out to the full body for further action and consideration i so move properly moved by senator bolkis and
seconded by senator johnson potter and joseph roll call on the motion senator angel l boquez jr senator bolquez jr yes
senator diane t capehart yes senator capehart yes senator kenneth l gittins yes senator gittins yes senator maurice c james
senator james absent senator franklin d johnson yeah senator johnson yes senator carla j joseph senator joseph yes senator
milton e potter yes senator potter yes madam chair you have six yays one absent thank you madam mcclerk bill number
35-0033 an act honoring and commending mr ben buren benny stevens post humeurously for his heroism in saving lives
of a mother and her children and to rename the bovoni road route number 30 specifically for the entrance of the abattoir
to the entrance of
0:43:49
of the berta c boswell middle school the ben buren benny stevens drive has been voted upon favorably by this committee
and would be reported out of the full body for further consideration do i do i do i hear a motion motion motion senator
johnson madam chair yes one two thank you very much madam chair i move that bill number 35 zero zero three five an
act amending title 20 virgin islands code part two chapter 39 section 436 b expanding the definition of disabled veteran
for the purpose of eligibility for a handicapped window decal be voted on favorably in the committee on rules and
judiciary and be forward to the full body for further consideration iso move bill number 35-0035 properly moved by
senator johnson and seconded by senator bolkis potter roll call on the motion senator angel l bocas jr senator bocas jr yay
senator diane t capehart yes senator capehart yes senator kenneth l gittins yes senator gittins yes senator maurice c james
senator james absent senator franklin d johnson yay senator johnson yes senator carla j joseph yes senator joseph yes
senator milton e potter
0:46:03
senator potter yes madam chair you have six yeas one absent thank you bill number 35 5-0035 an act amending title 20
virgin islands code part 2 chapter 39 section 436b expanding the definition of disabled veteran for the purposes of
eligibility for a handicap window decal has been voted upon favorably by this committee and will be reported out to the
full body for further consideration to i hear a motion bill number 30 to i hear a motion bill number 30 senator gittins
please recognize senator gittins thank you thank you madam chair i move that bill number 35-0041 an act awarding the
virgin islands medal of honor posthumously to former senator edgar milton isles for his commendable public service and
contributions to the people of the virgin islands be voted upon favorably here in the rules and judiciary committee and be
forwarded to the full body for final consideration i so move bill number thirty five that's zero zero zero four one properly
moved by senator gittins and seconded by senator joseph potter and johnson roll call on the motion senator angel l
boquez jr senate senate senator bolquez jr yay senator diane t capehart yes senator capehart yes senator kenneth l gittins
0:48:07
yes senator gittins yes senator maurice c james senator james absent senator franklin d johnson yes senator johnson yay
senator kala j joseph senator joseph yes senator milton e potter senator potter yes madam chair you have six yeas one
absent thank you madam clerk bill number 35-0041 an act of awarding the virgin islands medal of honor the virgin
islands has been voted upon favorably by this committee and will be reported out to the full body for further
consideration motion senator joseph thank you kindly madam chair madam chair i move that bill number 35-01-00 a
resolution honoring and commending music in motion school of higher dance education and its founder carlita schuster
on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the music in motion dance academy be favorably voted
upon in this committee and reported out to the full body for further consideration and action i so move seconded properly
moved and seconded properly moved by senator joseph and seconded by senator potter
0:50:01
and senator johnson bolquez roll call on the motion senator an angel l bolquez jr jr yeah senator diane tk part yes senator
k part yes senator kenneth l gittins yes senator gittins yes senator maurice c james senator james absent senator franklin d
johnson senator johnson yay senator carla j joseph senator joseph yes senator milton e potter yes senator potter yes
madam chair you have six yays one absent thank you bill number 35-0100 a resolution honoring and commending music
in motion school of higher dance education and its founder charlita schuster on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of
0:51:56
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the the establishment of the music in motion dance academy has been voted upon favorably by this committee and will be
reported out to the full body for further consideration motion motion motion senator johnson thank you thank you very
much madam chair madam chair i move that bill number 35-0101 a resolution honoring and commending dr olaf bronco
hendrix for his tireless years of remarkable and unvaluable contribution to the people of the virgin islands in the field of
psychiatry his advocacy committee for social justice for social justice and individuals with behavioral health and
substance use issues and for his music be voted on favorably in the committee on rules and judiciary and be forward to
the full body for further consideration i so move second bill number 35-0101 properly moved by senator johnson and
seconded by senator gittins senator potter johnson and senator bolquez roll call on the motion
senator angela bolquez jr senator diane t k part yes senator k part yay senator kenneth l gittins yes senator gittins yay
senator marie c james senator james absent senator franklin d johnson yay senator johnson yay senator carla j joseph yes
senator joseph yes senator milton e potter yes senator potter yes madam chair you have six yeas one absent thank you
madam clerk bill number 35-0101 a resolution honoring and commending dr olaf bronco hendrix for his tireless years of
remarkable and invaluable contributions to the people of the virgin islands in the field of psychiatry his advocacy for
social justice for individuals with behavioral health and substance use issues and for his music has been voted upon
favorably by this committee and would be reported out to the full body for further consideration point of personal
privilege senator bolquez thank you madam chair madam chair and colleagues i want to express my appreciation for your
unwavering support in advancing the bills through this committee your dedication and commitment to the legislative
process is truly commendable and i'm grateful for the progress that we've made here together i look forward to continuing
the collaborative effort as the bills progress to the next subsequent stage thank you madam chair thank you senator
bolquez you're very welcome colleagues this concludes our long day in rules and judiciary um just want to even
apologize for not starting on time
0:54:42
due to cancellation of a flight this morning and that's why we started our committee meeting late i just want to say thank
you to the nominee who is now a heading to the full body for full consideration miss alejandro for property and
procurement i want to thank you the testifier my my colleagues there were no testifiers today i want to thank central staff
want to say thank you for even the listening and viewing audience today my colleagues non-committee members thank
you thank you today we are finished at 305 with that being said the committee on rules and judiciary is here now
adjourned Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
0:56:52
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
0:59:28
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.
38x
Senator Kenneth L. Gittens
heard in this transcript as: Gittens, Gittins, Kenneth Gittins, Kenneth L. Gittins
24x
Senator Samuel Carrion
heard in this transcript as: Carreon, Carrion
15x
Senator Franklin D. Johnson
heard in this transcript as: Johnson, Johnson's
15x
Dr. Olaf Bronco Hendricks
heard in this transcript as: Hendricks, Olaf Branko Hendricks, Olaf Hendricks
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 Edgar Milton Iles
heard in this transcript as: Edgar Iles, Edgar Milton Isles, Iles
8x
Senator Milton E. Potter
heard in this transcript as: Milton Potter, Potter
6x
Senator Angel L. Bolques, Jr.
heard in this transcript as: Angel L. Bolques Jr., Bolquez
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5x
Senator Diane T. Capeheart
heard in this transcript as: Capehart, Dianne T. Capehart
5x
Senator Marise C. James
the surname alone also matches: Javan James; Giovanni James Sr
heard in this transcript as: James, Marie C. James, Maurice C. James
3x
Senator Angel L. Bulkes Jr
heard in this transcript as: Bulkes Jr
3x
Senator Ray Fonseca
heard in this transcript as: Fonseca
3x
Governor Wang F. Louis Hospital
heard in this transcript as: Wang Lewis Hospital
2x
Senator Angel L. Bolkis Jr
heard in this transcript as: Bolkis
2x
Senator Karla J. Joseph
the surname alone also matches: Carla Joseph; Clifford Joseph
heard in this transcript as: Kala J. Joseph
1x
Senator Horace Callwood
heard in this transcript as: Horace A. Callwood Sr.
Bills and acts referred to
Matched by number against our own acts corpus. The number is what the recognition heard, so it may be wrong; where it resolved, the title is the one
the Legislature gave the act.
Bill 35-0029
Act 8739 · An Act honoring and commending Donna Marie Christian-Christensen M.D., and bestowing the Virgin Islands
Medal of Honor upon her for her tireless contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the medical field and
representation in the United States Congress ---0
Bill 35-0033
Act 8733 · An Act honoring and commending Mr. Benburin ·Benny· Stephens posthumously for his heroism in saving the lives
of a mother and her children and to rename the Bovoni Road (Route No. 30), specifically from the entrance of the St.
Thomas Abattoir to the entrance of the Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School, ·The Benburin ·Benny· Stephens Drive· ---0
Bill 35-0035
Act 8734 · July 20, 2023 · An Act amending title 20 Virgin Islands Code, part II, chapter 39, section 436(b), by expanding
the definition of ·disabled veteran· for the purposes of eligibility for a disabled window decal, making various appropriations
and amending Act No. 8681 ---0
Bill 35-0101
Act 8737 · An Act honoring and commending Dr. Olaf ·Bronco· Hendricks for his tireless years of remarkable and invaluable
contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the field of psychiatry, his advocacy for social justice for individuals
with behavioral health and substance use issues, and for his music; and mandating that any mental health facility
established on the islands of St. Croix be named in his honor ---0
Bill 35-0011
Act 8706 · An Act honoring and commending former Senator Horace A. Callwood, Sr. posthumously for his dedication,
service, and commitment to the people of the Virgin Islands and naming the north-south street immediately east of
Windward Passage in his memory ---0
Act 8739
Act 8739 · An Act honoring and commending Donna Marie Christian-Christensen M.D., and bestowing the Virgin Islands
Medal of Honor upon her for her tireless contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the medical field and
representation in the United States Congress ---0
Act 8733
Act 8733 · An Act honoring and commending Mr. Benburin ·Benny· Stephens posthumously for his heroism in saving the lives
of a mother and her children and to rename the Bovoni Road (Route No. 30), specifically from the entrance of the St.
Thomas Abattoir to the entrance of the Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School, ·The Benburin ·Benny· Stephens Drive· ---0
Act 8734
Act 8734 · July 20, 2023 · An Act amending title 20 Virgin Islands Code, part II, chapter 39, section 436(b), by expanding
the definition of ·disabled veteran· for the purposes of eligibility for a disabled window decal, making various appropriations
and amending Act No. 8681 ---0
Act 8681
Act 8681 · An Act establishing the Sixth Constitutional Convention of the Virgin Islands; and providing for an appropriation
to cover convention-related expenses i
Act 8737
Act 8737 · An Act honoring and commending Dr. Olaf ·Bronco· Hendricks for his tireless years of remarkable and invaluable
contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the field of psychiatry, his advocacy for social justice for individuals
with behavioral health and substance use issues, and for his music; and mandating that any mental health facility
established on the islands of St. Croix be named in his honor ---0
Act 8706
Act 8706 · An Act honoring and commending former Senator Horace A. Callwood, Sr. posthumously for his dedication,
service, and commitment to the people of the Virgin Islands and naming the north-south street immediately east of
Windward Passage in his memory ---0
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Referred to but not found in our acts corpus: Bill 35-0078, Bill 35-0100, Bill 35-0041
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