St. Croix This Weektag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://202010-02-03T16:32:28ZMovable Type 3.35Watersports & Activitiestag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31272010-02-01T16:18:26Z2010-02-03T16:32:28Z St. Croix is surrounded by some of the most beautiful water in the world! How can you not get in it, get under it, or on top of it? Year-round warm temperatures make it so inviting for all kinds...St. Croix is surrounded by some of the most beautiful water in the world! How can you not get in it, get under it, or on top of it? Year-round warm temperatures make it so inviting for all kinds of activities.Hop aboard a catamaran or trimaran and head with the pros to Buck Island off St. Croix's North Shore and 7 miles from Christiansted. Leave from town or Green Cay Marina. Visit Buck Island Reef National Monument--the first US Underwater National Park! Imagine a snorkel-guided tour through crystal clear water for an experience you'll never forget!
Caribbean sunsets are amazing especially when reflected in our beautiful waters. You can enjoy this romantic activity any day of the week with boats leaving from town and Gallows Bay.]]>
Get a bird's eye view of St. Croix as you sail high over blue, Caribbean waters. Check out historical sites, Buck Island, even sea turtles! Take off and land directly on the boat. Wow!
This is a fun and relaxing way to be in the water and discover what's below. Can be done off any beach or boat. Equipment is available to rent, borrow, or buy depending on your circumstances. Beautiful and interesting fish and coral are waiting to be seen!
Take a tour or go out on your own. Catch that warm wind in your hair and take off and out across that gorgeous blue water. Fun for the entire family. Look for lots of alternative activities at some of our listings.
If you're not already, get Certified at one of our many dive operations. Why wait any longer to dive the famous "Wall" at Cane Bay, one of our large Reefs, a Wreck, or the Frederiksted Pier? Once you know how, you can dive anywhere! We designate twenty dive sites on our Island Map and, each issue, will describe two of those sites in depth right there.
Several concessionaires offer kayaking out of Christiansted, Salt River, and Frederiksted. Great exercise and a wonderful chance to see things up close. Easy and fun for the whole family.
Fish the warm waters surrounding St. Croix with one of our professional captains. Catch the big one--Marlin, Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Snapper, Kingfish, or Dolphin! Half and Full-day adventures. ]]>
A Dream Come Truetag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31252010-01-29T09:50:25Z2010-02-02T08:30:07Z St. Croix is unique - an unspoiled American territory with the most affordable real estate in the entire Caribbean. One of the largest of the small Caribbean islands with a low developed to open space ratio, the "sleeping virgin"...
St. Croix is unique - an unspoiled American territory with the most affordable real estate in the entire Caribbean. One of the largest of the small Caribbean islands with a low developed to open space ratio, the "sleeping virgin" offers the best of the small town lifestyle.
Whether you are interested in a home, condominium, or vacant land, St. Croix is a bargain. With an area of more than 3 times St. Thomas and the same population, St. Croix has more choices with a wider price range. Because we are less densely populated, we have a more laid back life style and move at a slower pace - that's our charm!
Building lots are typically 1/2 acre or larger, with prices starting in the $40,000 range. Beachfront condominiums are plentiful in the $100,000 to $200,000 price range. The average home sale price is in the high $300,000's, with a nice selection of waterfront homes listed for under $1,000,000.
St. Croix is all about lifestyle - a tropical island paradise, affordable, comfortable, and personal. With prices at a 5 year low, now is the time to acquire your piece of the rock!
Julie San Martin, ReMax St. Croix, www.teamsanmartin.com]]>
39th Annual AgFairtag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31242010-01-29T09:42:08Z2010-01-29T09:44:41Z This year the 39th Virgin Islands Agriculture and Food Fair opens at the Fair Grounds on Centerline Road on Saturday, February 13, for three days. The Agfair draws participants and visitors from as far south as Guyana to Puerto...
This year the 39th Virgin Islands Agriculture and Food Fair opens at the Fair Grounds on Centerline Road on Saturday, February 13, for three days. The Agfair draws participants and visitors from as far south as Guyana to Puerto Rico to the mainland. Our sister islands of St. Thomas and St. John and the BVI also come over.
The Opening Ceremony, on the first day, recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to the fair in the past and have the Farmer's Market, Food Pavilion, and Livestock Pavilion named after them. The ceremony culminates with the presentation of the Crop and Livestock Farmer of the Year awards before the cutting of the ribbon at the entrance to the Farmers' Market.
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The Virgin Island Department of Agriculture and the University of the Virgin Islands Cooperative Extension Service are the primary sponsors of the fair. ]]>
Eat Fresh, Buy Local - A Farmer's Directorytag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31232010-01-29T09:18:14Z2010-02-02T08:33:03Z ARTfarm, LLC - 514-4873 Saturdays, 9-11am (beginning Jan. 2) St. Croix Map #11 Organically grown fresh, sweet local tomatoes, salads, herbs, veggies and a new farm are sprouting in 2010 at ARTfarm. After eight years at Southgate, Luca is...
ARTfarm, LLC - 514-4873
Saturdays, 9-11am (beginning Jan. 2) St. Croix Map #11
Organically grown fresh, sweet local tomatoes, salads, herbs, veggies and a new farm are sprouting in 2010 at ARTfarm. After eight years at Southgate, Luca is closing the location in November 2009 and moving the farm over the hills to the south shore! A new farm stand is being built from old greenhouses, old sheds recycled for art gallery space, and operations expanding to eventually include livestock and sculpture gardens. During construction we'll have less food to sell. But farmer/artist Luca Gasperi plans to continue supplying customers with the highest quality fresh produce, and to give volunteers a beautiful place to get their hands in the soil.]]>
Creque Dam Farm - 473-3155
St. Croix Map #17
Home to the Virgin Islands Sustainable Farm Institute, Creque Dam Farm is doing its part to keep local farmers off the virtual endangered species list with farming courses for school children and adults. They also offer VI Locally Grown, a Wednesday produce pick-up system where you can purchase directly from chemicalfree and organic farmers through www.vi.locallygrown.net. Growers post their ripening produce to the site on Sunday then you can buy online Monday and Tuesday. The produce is picked only after it is sold to ensure freshness for the customer and reliability for the farmer.
La Reine Farmers' Market - 778-0998
7-3pm every Saturday St. Croix Map #20
Up to 45 farmers rise early to meet the early crowds at this colorful marketplace run by the Department of Agriculture. Stock up on potted and dried herbs, carrots, yams, collard greens, lettuce, beets, thyme, parsley, chives, mango, avocado, eggfruit, guava, okra, pumpkin, arugula, Chinese cabbage, and Soursop and more. Look for homemade jams, jellies, chutney tarts, pies, cakes, and local juices plus potted plants and fruit trees.
Tropics Hydroponics Farm - 227-5546
Monday-Friday, 8-12 noon Saturday mornings, La Reine Market St.Croix Map #13 Owned and run by Brian and Linda McCulough, this farm specializes in growing high quality Bib lettuce as well as beefsteak and cluster vine ripened tomatoes. They use no soil - only hydroponics feeding well water nutrition to all of their plants...well water that has been purified through reverse osmosis, ph balanced and enriched with a special blend of nutrients and micro-nutrients! In addition to serving the public, the Hospitality industry is their primary market delivering local produce to fine restaurants on St. Croix.
VI Farmers' Cooperative - 643-4354
7-3pm every Saturday St. Croix Map #12
The goal of this 78-member Cooperative is to revive the agriculture industry and begin pooling farmers' produce in hope of getting a more consistent supply of locally grown food. You can check out their market every Saturday at Estate Grange across from the VI Health & Fitness Center. They plan to create a permanent farmers' market here to stay open six days a week giving the community and the farmers a steady headquarters for the buying and selling of local produce helping to promote the resurgence of St. Croix's agricultural industry.]]>
How Molasses was Madetag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31202010-01-25T16:11:10Z2010-02-02T08:38:39Z Part 7 in a series Excerpts from "Divers Information on The Romantic History of St. Croix" by Florence Lewisohn, 1963, St. Croix Landmarks Society. R U M has gone by many names" Rhum, Rumm, Rumbooze, Rhumb and Rumbullion -...
Part 7 in a series
Excerpts from "Divers Information on The Romantic History of St. Croix" by Florence Lewisohn, 1963, St. Croix Landmarks Society. R U M has gone by many names" Rhum, Rumm, Rumbooze, Rhumb and Rumbullion - and even the Indians ha a word for it - Ahcoobee.
As almost every West Indian knows, no two rums taste quite the same, varying greatly from island to island. In the early days on St. Croix, the quality of rum even varied from estate to estate. Each planter had his favorite methods and his secrets of flavor for creating what he felt was the superior product. The making of sugar and the making of rum were inseparable. Each plantation had its own still house, usually next to the sugar factory, where the molasses was used for rum-making. On St. Croix, the rum-making was on a fairly simple scale, but on the huge plantation of some of the British islands rum was also made on a grand scale with elaborate equipment.
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HOW POT STILL RUM WAS MADE
The still house in which the rum was made contained a number of large wooden vats called butts, generally 10 or 12 of them averaging from 750 to 1,000 gallons capacity. Copper pot-stills with a capacity approximately the same as a butt were located outside of the still house to accommodate the wood fires which heated the pots. An open shed covered the distilling equipment to keep rain off. In the bottom of each butt there was a 2 inch hold stoppered with a long wooden plug. This was removed when fermentation was complete (in from 4-to 6 days) and the fermented mash ran down in wooden troughs to the pot-still.
Three types of mash were used for fermentation: the chief one being a mixture of about one part molasses to five parts water, to which was sometimes added cush-cush, the fine Bagasse particles left in the strainer when the cane juice ran down from the mill. This was used as a yeast or mother. To this was usually added some form of acid, and some lime or vegetable ash. When all this was fermented, it was ready for use.
The second type of fermentation could be used only during crop time, usually before any molasses was available from the new cop. It was pure cane juice direct from the mill, requiring no special additives to start fermentation as the juice contained wild yeast, the whitish powder found around the knot or joint of the cane stalk.
The third fermented mixture came from using all the skimings from the sugar process, added to the molasses. This also could be done only during crop time. Next to the pot-still and elevated to about the same level, connected by a gooseneck pipe, sat the doubler or retort; usually made of wood. It had another connecting pipe which ran to the final piece of equipment, the pewter worms or coils of pipe which were suspended in a large cistern of cold water. When all was ready, the pot-still was filled with fermented mash; the doubler filled to about 1/4 its capacity with low wine, a weak low-proof rum which comes at the beginning and end of each distillation. The doubler usually had about 100 to 150 gallons of low wine in it.
The two vessels were closed and fire started under the pot-still. As the mash cooked, the resulting vapors went over into the doubler by the gooseneck which went down to within two or three inches of the bottom. These hot vapors in turn started the low-wine boiling and these combined vapors gained much in alcohol or proof strength, passing on into the pewter worms. The hot vapors running down through the cold pewter worms condensed into the liquid known as rum, and ran into a receiving vessel - always a wooden tub, usually made by cutting down a puncheon.
Approximately the first five gallons of the condensed liquid were drawn off as low-wine to put back intro the doubler as they retained some of the low quality condensate from the tail end of the previous distillation. Once this was done, the rum began to run at about 140* proof and run until the proof dropped to about 108*. From this one run there would come about 100 wine gallons of rum with an average proof of about 120*.
When the proof dropped below 108*, the rum was "cut" which meant that the distillate coming out was too inferior for rum and was accumulated as low-wine. This was run out until there were about 100 to 150 wine gallons of low-wine which were put back into the low-wine butt to be used to charge the doubler again for the next distillation.
The operation was then stopped. The exhausted low-wine in the doubler was run back into the pot still and together with al the used fermented mash in the pot, known as the lees, was run out into the lees pond outside the still house and discarded. The process was then ready to start all over again.
Last issue: How Sugar Was Made
Next issue: Molasses to Rum to Planter's Punch continued ]]>
Friendship Monthtag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31192010-01-25T16:03:35Z2010-01-25T16:05:22Z This time of year brings a large number of visitors to our island, including many Danes, in part because of our prevailing pleasant climate at a time when winter storms make life miserable in northern regions. By coincidence, it...
This time of year brings a large number of visitors to our island, including many Danes, in part because of our prevailing pleasant climate at a time when winter storms make life miserable in northern regions. By coincidence, it is also a time when some of the year's most enjoyable public activities take place, such as can be seen in our events calendar, brimming over with a great variety of activities, from agricultural fair to art show or regatta, to just name a few.
But the month of March has special meaning to anyone with a Danish connection. That is the time when Denmark-Virgin Islands Friendship month is celebrated. In recognition hereof, you will see all month the Danish flag, the Dannebrog, flying alongside the Stars and Stripes and the Virgin Islands flag at our handsome old Government House in Christiansted. This is a unique compliment to a former colonial power, as is the fact that even in the Virgin Islands Official Seal you will find a small Dannebrog flag depicted.
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This friendship is also reflected in the existence of a community non-profit organization, the St. Croix Friends of Denmark, with a membership of over 100, whose aim is the furthering of friendly relations with Denmark through cultural exchanges and reciprocal visits with their sister society in Denmark, the Danish West Indian Society. The latter was formed by individuals with ties to the islands, often through previous generation members having been stationed here as officials, soldiers or gendarmes. In recent years, St. Croix Friends of Denmark holds an enjoyable Danish West Indian Night in Frederiksted open to the public on the first Saturday of March, celebrating and offering samples of the inherited cuisine from Danish times.
When Denmark sold the Danish West Indies - St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix - to the United States in 1917, the transfer was an emotional event for many local citizens. Many changes were in store for all the islands. The event took place on March 31, which still is a local holiday celebrated annually as Danish Heritage Day with a gathering open to the public at no cost at the scenic Carl & Marie Lawaetz Family Museum north of Frederiksted. Many visiting Danes find this event a moving experience, as do the several hundred other individuals attending. Local schoolchildren participate in song and dancing, and often, prominent individuals articulate on the many bonds between the islands and their former mother country.
St. Croix Regattatag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31182010-01-25T15:55:34Z2010-01-25T15:58:57Z The St. Croix Yacht Club Hospice Regatta kicks off regatta season with lots of great racing, February 19-21, 2010. "In addition to being a great warm-up for boats and their crews, we are sailing for a worthwhile cause, supporting...
The St. Croix Yacht Club Hospice Regatta kicks off regatta season with lots of great racing, February 19-21, 2010. "In addition to being a great warm-up for boats and their crews, we are sailing for a worthwhile cause, supporting hospice services for all who need it on St. Croix," says Julie San Martin, regatta director.
The winning CSA Spinnaker-1 skipper will get his/her weight in Cruzan Rum and an invitation to the Hospice Regattas National Championship, held in Rochester, NY, next June which includes up to thirty other Hospice Regatta winners from the U.S. and Canada.
The regatta invites all local and visiting live-aboards, cruising boats and multihulls to race in the Buck Island Channel, and promises at least one day of point-to-point racing, including the challenging Christiansted town race. One-design IC-24's and Rhodes 19's are invited to race in the protected waters of Teague Bay, with lunch ashore at the yacht club.
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Acknowledging the challenges of U.S. entry requirements, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers will be at the club on Friday to welcome visitors arriving by boat. There is plenty of anchoring room in Teague Bay, making for a one-stop registration, clearance and party experience.
Food and entertainment will be available all weekend, and to better plan a memorable party and regatta, San Martin asks skippers to pick a class and to register online. "Please enter early," she says, "No payment is due until February 19, and there are no penalties if you are unable to show up for any reason."
For more information visit: www.stcroixregatta.com, or contact SCYC at: stcroixyc@gmail.com, or 340-773-9532.]]>
The Galleontag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31172010-01-25T15:47:34Z2010-01-25T15:50:42Z Nestled among the yachts of Green Cay Marina lies the Galleon Restaurant, one of the oldest on St. Croix and a local favorite for fine dining for over twenty-five years. The history starts with Dick Pelton who purchased land...
Nestled among the yachts of Green Cay Marina lies the Galleon Restaurant, one of the oldest on St. Croix and a local favorite for fine dining for over twenty-five years. The history starts with Dick Pelton who purchased land in 1979 in order to moor his boat and decided to build his own marina! It took five years for the dredging and to set the building for the restaurant on pilings. Frank Blaydon was then brought in as the architect of the restaurant. The original restaurant name was to be The Keyhole under first owners Bernard and Gail Lougot, serving classic French cuisine. Since the ceiling of the restaurant was designed to be a replica of the hull of a galleon ship they decided to change the name to The Galleon.
In 1984, the marina was opened and people started mooring their boats. The restaurant was opened as well in 1984 making it one of the oldest on St. Croix with only two different owners since then. Lesley Morrison, the current proprietor, moved to St. Croix twelve years ago. "Having been in the restaurant business since I was 17, and restaurant management since I was 20, and having worked the business through both Europe and Hawaii, I never thought I would have the opportunity to purchase my own until The Galleon came along," she says. Lesley has taken the fare from classic French to a more eclectic style with a slight Asian flare, as well as island inspired and classic dishes.
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The Galleon is open seven days a week, including a fantastic Sunday brunch featuring such items as Grand Marnier French Toast, Eggs Benedict and Smoked Salmon Fettuccini with a Frangelico Cream Sauce. "We're very fortunate to have two chefs--Patrick James and Craig Butler--who have been with us since the beginning," says Lesley. "Patrick, as a Crucian, injects indigenous food ideas into the menu while Craig, a chef's school graduate, concentrates on our "modernized" old French classics."
Working on her passion for good wines, Lesley went about creating one of the best wine lists on the island. In 2009, The Galleon received recognition for this from Wine Spectator Magazine by receiving their distinguished "Award of Excellence." The Galleon also hosts numerous wine dinners featuring famous winemakers such as Dennis Cakebread and Chris Benziger. "Under my management, I feel I make a difference with my hands-on approach to everything including the food, wine, decor, and service."
We welcome all our island visitors to stop by and meet and mix with the locals. Guests will enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in the cozy Piano Bar featuring some of St. Croix's favorite local musicians. The classic fine-dining atmosphere, fantastic creations of the kitchen staff, and superb service are sure to leave a lasting impression.
For reservations or more information, call 718-9848.]]>
Island Art - Featured Artist Isabelle Picardtag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31162010-01-25T15:30:09Z2010-02-18T12:18:32Z Isabelle Picard has been a St. Croix resident for the past ten years. Growing up on a sailboat in the south of France, Isabelle spent most of her formative years in Hyeres, a beautiful seaside town on the French...
Isabelle Picard has been a St. Croix resident for the past ten years. Growing up on a sailboat in the south of France, Isabelle spent most of her formative years in Hyeres, a beautiful seaside town on the French Riviera, before venturing off to the far corners of the world. She has traveled extensively, spending much of her time in the French West Indies, New Caledonia and Mexico. She is fluent in four languages.
A mural artist by profession, her work can be seen in private homes and public buildings throughout South Florida, the Virgin Islands and the south of France. Her paintings on canvas have also been collected worldwide. Her style is whimsical, colorful, happy, and has been called modern Caribbean Folk Art. Having studied graphic design in Florida, some of her work reflects a more graphic style. Post baccalaureate, Isabelle worked for several years as the head designer for a high volume custom paintings and mural company in South Florida, before starting her own company.
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Her work as a muralist has afforded her the unique opportunity to work with each clients taste and individuality.
Her inspiration comes from her love of nature, our colorful planet, the people of the Caribbean, and her love of naive painters from Haiti, Australia, Russia and Africa.
Isabelle is also an accomplished athlete and believes in balancing her life between creativity and outdoor activities such as kite surfing, hiking with her dogs, sailing and working out.
She has tremendous respect for all living creatures and is a strong advocate for animal rights. She is dedicated to helping to bring awareness against animal cruelty and neglect, especially at home in the Virgin Islands.
PO Box 24751
Christiansted, St. Croix 00824
Phone: 773-9890
Cell: 340-643-5637]]>
Whim Antiques Auction & Fair Returns with Gustotag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31152010-01-25T15:24:13Z2010-02-02T08:41:51Z By Nina McLain Cook The 24th Whim Antique Auction, along with an Antique and Collectibles Fair, will be held March 7th at the Whim Museum, Frederiksted. The event celebrates the internationally known, exquisite craftsmanship of the Caribbean in furniture,...By Nina McLain Cook
The 24th Whim Antique Auction, along with an Antique and Collectibles Fair, will be held March 7th at the Whim Museum, Frederiksted. The event celebrates the internationally known, exquisite craftsmanship of the Caribbean in furniture, art, tools, and accessories. The event is a major fundraiser for the St. Croix Landmarks Society, which, for over 60 years, has been dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of the unique historical and cultural legacy of St. Croix through preservation, research, and education.
Buyers and sellers will unite to raise money for SCLS and for themselves in vigorous auction bidding and sales of the coveted handcrafted antiques and collector's items, proudly exchanging guardianship of the artistic and historical testament the pieces carry with them. Twentieth and twenty-first century handcrafted furniture and accessories, such as freeform tables, stump or root tables, wooden bowls, candlesticks, and treasure boxes are among items recognized as the antiques of tomorrow. They bring style and verve to the event and to the homes and offices that display them. Specially chosen "decorator pieces" that are contemporary or modern will be sold as well. Furniture, lamps, picture frames, large pots, rugs, porcelain, and art are snatched up by people who enjoy interesting items reflecting the unique styles of the Caribbean.
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Cultural and Heritage Tourism is on the rise. St. Croix, being a treasure trove of interesting history and culture attracting visitors year round, and the achievements of the St. Croix Landmarks Society are part of this phenomenon! Further, St. Croix is being considered for the designation of a National Heritage Area by the National Park Service. This honor, if granted, will bring millions of grant dollars to the island in support of this new tourism segment.
The Whim Auction and Fair will be an enjoyable way to spend a Sunday, and help a good cause, with good food and drinks in a very convivial atmosphere. The lawn of the Whim Museum will be full with the big tents up, beautiful furniture displayed, bustling with activities. Buyers will rush the gates to have the best selection in the antiques and collectible vendor market. Bidding will also be open from 10 AM and the Live Auction of specially selected pieces is at 1:30 PM.
Antique experts will mingle with the crowd and be available for sharing their expertise. Dr. Michael Connors and Philip Sturm will be on hand and will help launch the first "Whim Antiques Road Show", modeled after the popular television show, allowing participants to have their treasures appraised. The latest books by the two experts will be available. St. Thomas history notable Felipe Ayala will be participating. Well-known interior designers and celebrities will be spotted prowling for special items. Join the fun! For more information, call 772-0598.]]>
Caribbean Community Theatre Celebrates its 25th Season!tag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31112010-01-25T14:38:51Z2010-02-03T16:49:26Z Bringing the Arts to St. Croix, Caribbean Community Theater (CCT) has been celebrating theater, music, and dance in venues across the island of St. Croix, for the past 25 years. From the Airport Inn, to the Strand Street Theater,...Bringing the Arts to St. Croix, Caribbean Community Theater (CCT) has been celebrating theater, music, and dance in venues across the island of St. Croix, for the past 25 years. From the Airport Inn, to the Strand Street Theater, to the Buccaneer Hotel, to the Sydney Lee Theater, to it present home at #18 Estate Orange Grove, CCT has garnered a reputation for showcasing the best in local talent.
From its first (1985-86) season, the founders of CCT explained in their inaugural program that the organization was intended to be a COMMUNITY theater. In November of 2009, CCT embarked on its Silver season with the world premiere of Sundays at Eleven by St. Croix resident Tom Ziegler, whose play Grace & Glorie, produced by CCT in 2008, has been performed to acclaim worldwide. The month of February 2010 is enlivened by the comic rock musical Little Shop of Horrors.
CCT will hold its 25th Anniversary Cabaret FUNdraiser on March 19 & 20 at 8 PM. The show will be directed by Michael Armendariz. No stranger to the stage himself, Armendariz collaborated and co-directed several previous cabaret shows with CCT's founder and original artistic director, David Richards. The show will feature songs and skits from various performances from the past 25 years, and highlights one of the islands strengths: musical theater talent.]]>
In April, CCT will present the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, Proof. Look for the classic Noel Coward comedy, Blithe Spirit, in May. Rounding off the season in July 2010 will be 8 to 5 - Government Workers Style II by local playwright Sandra A. "Imelda" Edwards; to anyone who has lived in the V.I., the title suggests subject matter with which they will be all too familiar!
The theater has, whenever possible, showcased plays by local authors - such as Sarah & Addie, Saturday Marnin' in de Market, And Everything in Its Place, and Liberated - and thought-provoking material like A Raisin in the Sun, Steel Magnolias, Anna in the Tropics and Real Women Have Curves. CCT also serves the community with an after-school children's theater program, the Calico Cat Company, with productions in December and May that are written and performed by the students.
Performances are held at #18 Estate Orange Grove in Christiansted (see map for directions). The theater's website, www.cct.vi, has information on the current season or call 778-4228 or 778-1983. ]]>
Go to St. Croix Webcamtag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2010://20.31102010-01-25T14:30:04Z2010-01-25T14:31:36Z St. Croix has two FREE attractions that are available 7 days a week -- the webcams on GoToStCroix.com. The Christiansted Harbor Cam broadcasts a live view of Christiansted's picturesque boardwalk, located at the Rum Runners Restaurant. The Frederiksted Pier...
St. Croix has two FREE attractions that are available 7 days a week -- the webcams on GoToStCroix.com. The Christiansted Harbor Cam broadcasts a live view of Christiansted's picturesque boardwalk, located at the Rum Runners Restaurant. The Frederiksted Pier Cam offers a view of the Frederiksted waterfront as seen from the downtown cafe Polly's at the Pier. Stop by for a delicious cold beverage or snack at either location, and call your family and friends so they can see you - live - from St. Croix. Wave hello to your loved ones all over the world. Borrow one of the fun signs available to hold up while you have your fifteen minutes of fame. They will only wish they were here, too. When not on St. Croix, you can log on to GoToStCroix.com/live to stay tuned to the St. Croix scene from your home, office, and smart phone!]]>
A Farmer's Directorytag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2009://20.30442009-11-27T09:58:26Z2010-01-29T09:35:53Z ARTfarm, LLC - 514-4873 Saturdays, 9-11am (beginning Jan. 2) St. Croix Map #11 Organically grown fresh, sweet local tomatoes, salads, herbs, veggies and a new farm are sprouting in 2010 at ARTfarm. After eight years at Southgate, Luca is...ARTfarm, LLC - 514-4873
Saturdays, 9-11am (beginning Jan. 2) St. Croix Map #11
Organically grown fresh, sweet local tomatoes, salads, herbs, veggies and a new farm are sprouting in 2010 at ARTfarm. After eight years at Southgate, Luca is closing the location in November 2009 and moving the farm over the hills to the south shore! A new farm stand is being built from old greenhouses, old sheds recycled for art gallery space, and operations expanding to eventually include livestock and sculpture gardens. During construction we'll have less food to sell. But farmer/artist Luca Gasperi plans to continue supplying customers with the highest quality fresh produce, and to give volunteers a beautiful place to get their hands in the soil.
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Creque Dam Farm - 473-3155
St. Croix Map #17
Home to the Virgin Islands Sustainable Farm Institute, Creque Dam Farm is doing its part to keep local farmers off the virtual endangered species list with farming courses for school children and adults. They also offer VI Locally Grown, a Wednesday produce pick-up system where you can purchase directly from chemicalfree and organic farmers through www.vi.locallygrown.net. Growers post their ripening produce to the site on Sunday then you can buy online Monday and Tuesday. The produce is picked only after it is sold to ensure freshness for the customer and reliability for the farmer.
La Reine Farmers' Market - 778-0998
7-3pm every Saturday St. Croix Map #20
Up to 45 farmers rise early to meet the early crowds at this colorful marketplace run by the Department of Agriculture. Stock up on potted and dried herbs, carrots, yams, collard greens, lettuce, beets, thyme, parsley, chives, mango, avocado, eggfruit, guava, okra, pumpkin, arugula, Chinese cabbage, and Soursop and more. Look for homemade jams, jellies, chutney tarts, pies, cakes, and local juices plus potted plants and fruit trees.
Tropics Hydroponics Farm - 227-5546
Monday-Friday, 8-12 noon Saturday mornings, La Reine Market St.Croix Map #13
Owned and run by Brian and Linda McCulough, this farm specializes in growing high quality Bib lettuce as well as beefsteak and cluster vine ripened tomatoes. They use no soil - only hydroponics feeding well water nutrition to all of their plants...well water that has been purified through reverse osmosis, ph balanced and enriched with a special blend of nutrients and micro-nutrients! In addition to serving the public, the Hospitality industry is their primary market delivering local produce to fine restaurants on St. Croix.
VI Farmers' Cooperative - 643-4354
7-3pm every Saturday St. Croix Map #12
The goal of this 78-member Cooperative is to revive the agriculture industry and begin pooling farmers' produce in hope of getting a more consistent supply of locally grown food. You can check out their market every Saturday at Estate Grange across from the VI Health & Fitness Center. They plan to create a permanent farmers' market here to stay open six days a week giving the community and the farmers a steady headquarters for the buying and selling of local produce helping to promote the resurgence of St. Croix's agricultural industry.]]>
Mermaid's Tears - Trudi Gilliamtag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2009://20.30432009-11-27T09:27:11Z2009-11-27T09:35:25Z Metal sculptor and former St. Croix resident Trudi Gilliam will be the featured artist at Designworks for the January 21 edition of Art Thursday. The show, titled "Mermaid's Tears," is Trudi's latest collection of work incorporating sea glass, copper,...
Metal sculptor and former St. Croix resident Trudi Gilliam will be the featured artist at Designworks for the January 21 edition of Art Thursday. The show, titled "Mermaid's Tears," is Trudi's latest collection of work incorporating sea glass, copper, brass, driftwood, and paint.
"Mermaid's tears is a term used in folklore for sea glass," says Gilliam. "My passion for beachcombing has given me a trove of sea glass from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans as well as the Caribbean Sea. When I heard the term mermaid's tears, I liked the image. It provided me with an unusual focus for using the glass along with my metal work. I enjoy collaborating with the forces of nature-sand, sea, and time-to create a one-of-a-kind piece of sculpture. The colors and texture of the glass are so appealing. One cannot help but wonder, 'What is its history, its use, how did it come to wash up on the shore of a particular beach?' My ability to give the sea glass pieces new life is also part of the motivation for incorporating it into my work."
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The show's work focuses on the use of sea glass in a variety of designs, both realistic and abstract. A mermaid's mask, seascapes, and the mermaid herself are represented. Trudi's always unusual and decorative weavings provide a format for the application of pieces of sea glass for color, texture, and mood. These are open-ended works of art that require the viewer to bring his or her own experiences to the interpretation of each piece. Trudi is also exhibiting new pieces of sea glass jewelry along with her latest sculptures.
"Mermaid's Tears" opens with a reception for the artist from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 21. Trudi Gilliam will be on hand to talk with art patrons and friends alike. The show will be on display through February 17. Designworks is located in historic Apothecary Hall in downtown Christiansted at No. Six Company Street. For more information, contact Richard Harris at 713- 8102 or 643-1952.
St. Croix collectors have enjoyed seeing their island through Trudi's eyes since the early 70s when she moved to St. Croix from New Jersey. She started out as an art teacher selling her work through galleries and auctions but eventually eliminated the middleman to "sell her works more affordably." Lots of people will remember Trudi's infamous gallery/studio in the Comanche Walk in Christiansted so "people could see me work." Here she sold, took requests, and did commissioned sculptures, murals, mobiles, and wall reliefs.
Gilliam's work has undergone lots of change over the years from lizards, birds, goats, ferns, West Indian houses and reef life, to abstract forms. Her use of media has changed as well. She likes working with natural things - brass, copper, and steel - some new, some scrap - against local woods like mahogany, Tibet, even driftwood. With her cutting torch and anvil, Trudi both shapes the metals and creates their richly textured surfaces.
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Lalita Restaurant In-Town Oasistag:www.stcroixthisweek.com,2009://20.30422009-11-27T09:06:00Z2010-01-25T14:32:28Z "Thanks for the lovely meal. The best on St. Croix. We are from Denmark and there we don't have this kind of "healthy food" restaurant." - Arne & Dorte Dating back to 1768, Jacob Linberg House, on King Street,...
"Thanks for the lovely meal. The best on St. Croix. We are from Denmark and there we don't have this kind of "healthy food" restaurant." - Arne & Dorte
Dating back to 1768, Jacob Linberg House, on King Street, Christiansted, was acquired by its present owners Dr. Cheryl Wade and her husband Jonathan Lowis in 2000. With the vision of creating a sacred space to demonstrate the radical concept of self-healing on all levels through holistic living, they transformed the property to accommodate this ideal over the next seven years.
Stage One was facilitated by the feminine energy of the Hindu deity Kali. Kali represents and embodies the triple feminine energies of maiden, mother, and wise old woman. In her wise woman aspect she helped to clear away the old energies including fear, and apprehension of tomorrow, to illuminate the truth and validity of the vision. Stage Two was facilitated by Lalita, Kali's maiden aspect, who focused on the creation of joy, tranquility and beauty.
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Menu offerings include Caribbean soups like Cruzan Black Bean, Vegan Kallaloo, and Curried Coconut Stew cooked and served hot. The award-winning Mango Spacho, Creamy Spinach, and Spicy Carrot raw soups are served chilled. Appetizer choices -- Cashew Nut Hummus served with flax crackers and the Avocado Nori Roll.
With everything made-to-order, there is a selection of fillings for sandwiches and wraps, a variety of delicious designer salads and live food entrees like Jamaican Wild Rice, Coconut Pad Thai, and Zucchini Fettuccini. All the sauces and dressings are house made. Free of sugar, dairy and soy products, desserts include Gelato, Cheesecake, Chocolate Tart, Baklava, and Coconut Macaroons.
We serve over 30 fresh vegetable juices like the Immune Booster Special and Fresh Fruit Smoothies like mango, pineapple, banana and coconut milk plus local drinks like ginger root as well as refreshing iced organic green teas and herbal infusions. Bonterra organic wines are offered by the glass or bottle.
We offer take out and local delivery, business and personal accounts, and catering and space is available for lectures and workshops, and also private functions.
The Shop at KALIMA Center stocks organic vitamins and whole food supplements, organic body care, teas, herbs, and herbal remedies, essential oils, homeopathic medicine, crystals, candles, books, and gift baskets.
Sit back and relax in this beautiful oasis and enjoy some of the most unique food you will find anywhere. Lalita, across from Government House, is open from 8 am to 9 pm. Reservations recommended. For more information, call 719-4417 or visit www.kalimacenter.org.]]>
St. Croix is surrounded by some of the most beautiful water in the world! How can you not get in it, get under it, or on top of it? Year-round warm temperatures make it so inviting for all kinds of activities.
Hop aboard a catamaran or trimaran and head with the pros to Buck Island off St. Croix's North Shore and 7 miles from Christiansted. Leave from town or Green Cay Marina. Visit Buck Island Reef National Monument--the first US Underwater National Park! Imagine a snorkel-guided tour through crystal clear water for an experience you'll never forget!
Caribbean sunsets are amazing especially when reflected in our beautiful waters. You can enjoy this romantic activity any day of the week with boats leaving from town and Gallows Bay.]]>
Get a bird's eye view of St. Croix as you sail high over blue, Caribbean waters. Check out historical sites, Buck Island, even sea turtles! Take off and land directly on the boat. Wow!
This is a fun and relaxing way to be in the water and discover what's below. Can be done off any beach or boat. Equipment is available to rent, borrow, or buy depending on your circumstances. Beautiful and interesting fish and coral are waiting to be seen!
Take a tour or go out on your own. Catch that warm wind in your hair and take off and out across that gorgeous blue water. Fun for the entire family. Look for lots of alternative activities at some of our listings.
If you're not already, get Certified at one of our many dive operations. Why wait any longer to dive the famous "Wall" at Cane Bay, one of our large Reefs, a Wreck, or the Frederiksted Pier? Once you know how, you can dive anywhere! We designate twenty dive sites on our Island Map and, each issue, will describe two of those sites in depth right there.
Several concessionaires offer kayaking out of Christiansted, Salt River, and Frederiksted. Great exercise and a wonderful chance to see things up close. Easy and fun for the whole family.
Fish the warm waters surrounding St. Croix with one of our professional captains. Catch the big one--Marlin, Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Snapper, Kingfish, or Dolphin! Half and Full-day adventures. ]]>
Whether you are interested in a home, condominium, or vacant land, St. Croix is a bargain. With an area of more than 3 times St. Thomas and the same population, St. Croix has more choices with a wider price range. Because we are less densely populated, we have a more laid back life style and move at a slower pace - that's our charm!
Building lots are typically 1/2 acre or larger, with prices starting in the $40,000 range. Beachfront condominiums are plentiful in the $100,000 to $200,000 price range. The average home sale price is in the high $300,000's, with a nice selection of waterfront homes listed for under $1,000,000.
St. Croix is all about lifestyle - a tropical island paradise, affordable, comfortable, and personal. With prices at a 5 year low, now is the time to acquire your piece of the rock!
Julie San Martin, ReMax St. Croix, www.teamsanmartin.com]]>
Owned and run by Brian and Linda McCulough, this farm specializes in growing high quality Bib lettuce as well as beefsteak and cluster vine ripened tomatoes. They use no soil - only hydroponics feeding well water nutrition to all of their plants...well water that has been purified through reverse osmosis, ph balanced and enriched with a special blend of nutrients and micro-nutrients! In addition to serving the public, the Hospitality industry is their primary market delivering local produce to fine restaurants on St. Croix.
VI Farmers' Cooperative - 643-4354
7-3pm every Saturday
St. Croix Map #12
The goal of this 78-member Cooperative is to revive the agriculture industry and begin pooling farmers' produce in hope of getting a more consistent supply of locally grown food. You can check out their market every Saturday at Estate Grange across from the VI Health & Fitness Center. They plan to create a permanent farmers' market here to stay open six days a week giving the community and the farmers a steady headquarters for the buying and selling of local produce helping to promote the resurgence of St. Croix's agricultural industry.]]>
As almost every West Indian knows, no two rums taste quite the same, varying greatly from island to island. In the early days on St. Croix, the quality of rum even varied from estate to estate. Each planter had his favorite methods and his secrets of flavor for creating what he felt was the superior product. The making of sugar and the making of rum were inseparable. Each plantation had its own still house, usually next to the sugar factory, where the molasses was used for rum-making. On St. Croix, the rum-making was on a fairly simple scale, but on the huge plantation of some of the British islands rum was also made on a grand scale with elaborate equipment.
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HOW POT STILL RUM WAS MADE
The still house in which the rum was made contained a number of large wooden vats called butts, generally 10 or 12 of them averaging from 750 to 1,000 gallons capacity. Copper pot-stills with a capacity approximately the same as a butt were located outside of the still house to accommodate the wood fires which heated the pots. An open shed covered the distilling equipment to keep rain off. In the bottom of each butt there was a 2 inch hold stoppered with a long wooden plug. This was removed when fermentation was complete (in from 4-to 6 days) and the fermented mash ran down in wooden troughs to the pot-still.
Three types of mash were used for fermentation: the chief one being a mixture of about one part molasses to five parts water, to which was sometimes added cush-cush, the fine Bagasse particles left in the strainer when the cane juice ran down from the mill. This was used as a yeast or mother. To this was usually added some form of acid, and some lime or vegetable ash. When all this was fermented, it was ready for use.
The second type of fermentation could be used only during crop time, usually before any molasses was available from the new cop. It was pure cane juice direct from the mill, requiring no special additives to start fermentation as the juice contained wild yeast, the whitish powder found around the knot or joint of the cane stalk.
The third fermented mixture came from using all the skimings from the sugar process, added to the molasses. This also could be done only during crop time. Next to the pot-still and elevated to about the same level, connected by a gooseneck pipe, sat the doubler or retort; usually made of wood. It had another connecting pipe which ran to the final piece of equipment, the pewter worms or coils of pipe which were suspended in a large cistern of cold water. When all was ready, the pot-still was filled with fermented mash; the doubler filled to about 1/4 its capacity with low wine, a weak low-proof rum which comes at the beginning and end of each distillation. The doubler usually had about 100 to 150 gallons of low wine in it.
The two vessels were closed and fire started under the pot-still. As the mash cooked, the resulting vapors went over into the doubler by the gooseneck which went down to within two or three inches of the bottom. These hot vapors in turn started the low-wine boiling and these combined vapors gained much in alcohol or proof strength, passing on into the pewter worms. The hot vapors running down through the cold pewter worms condensed into the liquid known as rum, and ran into a receiving vessel - always a wooden tub, usually made by cutting down a puncheon.
Approximately the first five gallons of the condensed liquid were drawn off as low-wine to put back intro the doubler as they retained some of the low quality condensate from the tail end of the previous distillation. Once this was done, the rum began to run at about 140* proof and run until the proof dropped to about 108*. From this one run there would come about 100 wine gallons of rum with an average proof of about 120*.
When the proof dropped below 108*, the rum was "cut" which meant that the distillate coming out was too inferior for rum and was accumulated as low-wine. This was run out until there were about 100 to 150 wine gallons of low-wine which were put back into the low-wine butt to be used to charge the doubler again for the next distillation.
The operation was then stopped. The exhausted low-wine in the doubler was run back into the pot still and together with al the used fermented mash in the pot, known as the lees, was run out into the lees pond outside the still house and discarded. The process was then ready to start all over again.
Last issue: How Sugar Was Made
Next issue: Molasses to Rum to Planter's Punch continued ]]>
But the month of March has special meaning to anyone with a Danish connection. That is the time when Denmark-Virgin Islands Friendship month is celebrated. In recognition hereof, you will see all month the Danish flag, the Dannebrog, flying alongside the Stars and Stripes and the Virgin Islands flag at our handsome old Government House in Christiansted. This is a unique compliment to a former colonial power, as is the fact that even in the Virgin Islands Official Seal you will find a small Dannebrog flag depicted.
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This friendship is also reflected in the existence of a community non-profit organization, the St. Croix Friends of Denmark, with a membership of over 100, whose aim is the furthering of friendly relations with Denmark through cultural exchanges and reciprocal visits with their sister society in Denmark, the Danish West Indian Society. The latter was formed by individuals with ties to the islands, often through previous generation members having been stationed here as officials, soldiers or gendarmes. In recent years, St. Croix Friends of Denmark holds an enjoyable Danish West Indian Night in Frederiksted open to the public on the first Saturday of March, celebrating and offering samples of the inherited cuisine from Danish times.
When Denmark sold the Danish West Indies - St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix - to the United States in 1917, the transfer was an emotional event for many local citizens. Many changes were in store for all the islands. The event took place on March 31, which still is a local holiday celebrated annually as Danish Heritage Day with a gathering open to the public at no cost at the scenic Carl & Marie Lawaetz Family Museum north of Frederiksted. Many visiting Danes find this event a moving experience, as do the several hundred other individuals attending. Local schoolchildren participate in song and dancing, and often, prominent individuals articulate on the many bonds between the islands and their former mother country.
The winning CSA Spinnaker-1 skipper will get his/her weight in Cruzan Rum and an invitation to the Hospice Regattas National Championship, held in Rochester, NY, next June which includes up to thirty other Hospice Regatta winners from the U.S. and Canada.
The regatta invites all local and visiting live-aboards, cruising boats and multihulls to race in the Buck Island Channel, and promises at least one day of point-to-point racing, including the challenging Christiansted town race. One-design IC-24's and Rhodes 19's are invited to race in the protected waters of Teague Bay, with lunch ashore at the yacht club.
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Acknowledging the challenges of U.S. entry requirements, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers will be at the club on Friday to welcome visitors arriving by boat. There is plenty of anchoring room in Teague Bay, making for a one-stop registration, clearance and party experience.
Food and entertainment will be available all weekend, and to better plan a memorable party and regatta, San Martin asks skippers to pick a class and to register online. "Please enter early," she says, "No payment is due until February 19, and there are no penalties if you are unable to show up for any reason."
For more information visit: www.stcroixregatta.com, or contact SCYC at: stcroixyc@gmail.com, or 340-773-9532.]]>
In 1984, the marina was opened and people started mooring their boats. The restaurant was opened as well in 1984 making it one of the oldest on St. Croix with only two different owners since then. Lesley Morrison, the current proprietor, moved to St. Croix twelve years ago. "Having been in the restaurant business since I was 17, and restaurant management since I was 20, and having worked the business through both Europe and Hawaii, I never thought I would have the opportunity to purchase my own until The Galleon came along," she says. Lesley has taken the fare from classic French to a more eclectic style with a slight Asian flare, as well as island inspired and classic dishes.
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The Galleon is open seven days a week, including a fantastic Sunday brunch featuring such items as Grand Marnier French Toast, Eggs Benedict and Smoked Salmon Fettuccini with a Frangelico Cream Sauce. "We're very fortunate to have two chefs--Patrick James and Craig Butler--who have been with us since the beginning," says Lesley. "Patrick, as a Crucian, injects indigenous food ideas into the menu while Craig, a chef's school graduate, concentrates on our "modernized" old French classics."
Working on her passion for good wines, Lesley went about creating one of the best wine lists on the island. In 2009, The Galleon received recognition for this from Wine Spectator Magazine by receiving their distinguished "Award of Excellence." The Galleon also hosts numerous wine dinners featuring famous winemakers such as Dennis Cakebread and Chris Benziger. "Under my management, I feel I make a difference with my hands-on approach to everything including the food, wine, decor, and service."
We welcome all our island visitors to stop by and meet and mix with the locals. Guests will enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in the cozy Piano Bar featuring some of St. Croix's favorite local musicians. The classic fine-dining atmosphere, fantastic creations of the kitchen staff, and superb service are sure to leave a lasting impression.
For reservations or more information, call 718-9848.]]>
Isabelle Picard has been a St. Croix resident for the past ten years. Growing up on a sailboat in the south of France, Isabelle spent most of her formative years in Hyeres, a beautiful seaside town on the French Riviera, before venturing off to the far corners of the world. She has traveled extensively, spending much of her time in the French West Indies, New Caledonia and Mexico. She is fluent in four languages.
A mural artist by profession, her work can be seen in private homes and public buildings throughout South Florida, the Virgin Islands and the south of France. Her paintings on canvas have also been collected worldwide. Her style is whimsical, colorful, happy, and has been called modern Caribbean Folk Art. Having studied graphic design in Florida, some of her work reflects a more graphic style. Post baccalaureate, Isabelle worked for several years as the head designer for a high volume custom paintings and mural company in South Florida, before starting her own company.
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Her work as a muralist has afforded her the unique opportunity to work with each clients taste and individuality.
Her inspiration comes from her love of nature, our colorful planet, the people of the Caribbean, and her love of naive painters from Haiti, Australia, Russia and Africa.
Isabelle is also an accomplished athlete and believes in balancing her life between creativity and outdoor activities such as kite surfing, hiking with her dogs, sailing and working out.
She has tremendous respect for all living creatures and is a strong advocate for animal rights. She is dedicated to helping to bring awareness against animal cruelty and neglect, especially at home in the Virgin Islands.
PO Box 24751
Christiansted, St. Croix 00824
Phone: 773-9890
Cell: 340-643-5637]]>
Buyers and sellers will unite to raise money for SCLS and for themselves in vigorous auction bidding and sales of the coveted handcrafted antiques and collector's items, proudly exchanging guardianship of the artistic and historical testament the pieces carry with them. Twentieth and twenty-first century handcrafted furniture and accessories, such as freeform tables, stump or root tables, wooden bowls, candlesticks, and treasure boxes are among items recognized as the antiques of tomorrow. They bring style and verve to the event and to the homes and offices that display them. Specially chosen "decorator pieces" that are contemporary or modern will be sold as well. Furniture, lamps, picture frames, large pots, rugs, porcelain, and art are snatched up by people who enjoy interesting items reflecting the unique styles of the Caribbean.
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Cultural and Heritage Tourism is on the rise. St. Croix, being a treasure trove of interesting history and culture attracting visitors year round, and the achievements of the St. Croix Landmarks Society are part of this phenomenon! Further, St. Croix is being considered for the designation of a National Heritage Area by the National Park Service. This honor, if granted, will bring millions of grant dollars to the island in support of this new tourism segment.
The Whim Auction and Fair will be an enjoyable way to spend a Sunday, and help a good cause, with good food and drinks in a very convivial atmosphere. The lawn of the Whim Museum will be full with the big tents up, beautiful furniture displayed, bustling with activities. Buyers will rush the gates to have the best selection in the antiques and collectible vendor market. Bidding will also be open from 10 AM and the Live Auction of specially selected pieces is at 1:30 PM.
Antique experts will mingle with the crowd and be available for sharing their expertise. Dr. Michael Connors and Philip Sturm will be on hand and will help launch the first "Whim Antiques Road Show", modeled after the popular television show, allowing participants to have their treasures appraised. The latest books by the two experts will be available. St. Thomas history notable Felipe Ayala will be participating. Well-known interior designers and celebrities will be spotted prowling for special items. Join the fun! For more information, call 772-0598.]]>
Bringing the Arts to St. Croix, Caribbean Community Theater (CCT) has been celebrating theater, music, and dance in venues across the island of St. Croix, for the past 25 years. From the Airport Inn, to the Strand Street Theater, to the Buccaneer Hotel, to the Sydney Lee Theater, to it present home at #18 Estate Orange Grove, CCT has garnered a reputation for showcasing the best in local talent.
From its first (1985-86) season, the founders of CCT explained in their inaugural program that the organization was intended to be a COMMUNITY theater. In November of 2009, CCT embarked on its Silver season with the world premiere of Sundays at Eleven by St. Croix resident Tom Ziegler, whose play Grace & Glorie, produced by CCT in 2008, has been performed to acclaim worldwide. The month of February 2010 is enlivened by the comic rock musical Little Shop of Horrors.
CCT will hold its 25th Anniversary Cabaret FUNdraiser on March 19 & 20 at 8 PM. The show will be directed by Michael Armendariz. No stranger to the stage himself, Armendariz collaborated and co-directed several previous cabaret shows with CCT's founder and original artistic director, David Richards. The show will feature songs and skits from various performances from the past 25 years, and highlights one of the islands strengths: musical theater talent.]]>
In April, CCT will present the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, Proof. Look for the classic Noel Coward comedy, Blithe Spirit, in May. Rounding off the season in July 2010 will be 8 to 5 - Government Workers Style II by local playwright Sandra A. "Imelda" Edwards; to anyone who has lived in the V.I., the title suggests subject matter with which they will be all too familiar!
The theater has, whenever possible, showcased plays by local authors - such as Sarah & Addie, Saturday Marnin' in de Market, And Everything in Its Place, and Liberated - and thought-provoking material like A Raisin in the Sun, Steel Magnolias, Anna in the Tropics and Real Women Have Curves. CCT also serves the community with an after-school children's theater program, the Calico Cat Company, with productions in December and May that are written and performed by the students.
Performances are held at #18 Estate Orange Grove in Christiansted (see map for directions). The theater's website, www.cct.vi, has information on the current season or call 778-4228 or 778-1983. 
ARTfarm, LLC - 514-4873
Saturdays, 9-11am (beginning Jan. 2)
St. Croix Map #11
Organically grown fresh, sweet local tomatoes, salads, herbs, veggies and a new farm are sprouting in 2010 at ARTfarm. After eight years at Southgate, Luca is closing the location in November 2009 and moving the farm over the hills to the south shore! A new farm stand is being built from old greenhouses, old sheds recycled for art gallery space, and operations expanding to eventually include livestock and sculpture gardens. During construction we'll have less food to sell. But farmer/artist Luca Gasperi plans to continue supplying customers with the highest quality fresh produce, and to give volunteers a beautiful place to get their hands in the soil.
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Creque Dam Farm - 473-3155
St. Croix Map #17
Home to the Virgin Islands Sustainable Farm Institute, Creque Dam Farm is doing its part to keep local farmers off the virtual endangered species list with farming courses for school children and adults. They also offer VI Locally Grown, a Wednesday produce pick-up system where you can purchase directly from chemicalfree and organic farmers through www.vi.locallygrown.net. Growers post their ripening produce to the site on Sunday then you can buy online Monday and Tuesday. The produce is picked only after it is sold to ensure freshness for the customer and reliability for the farmer.
La Reine Farmers' Market - 778-0998
7-3pm every Saturday
St. Croix Map #20
Up to 45 farmers rise early to meet the early crowds at this colorful marketplace run by the Department of Agriculture. Stock up on potted and dried herbs, carrots, yams, collard greens, lettuce, beets, thyme, parsley, chives, mango, avocado, eggfruit, guava, okra, pumpkin, arugula, Chinese cabbage, and Soursop and more. Look for homemade jams, jellies, chutney tarts, pies, cakes, and local juices plus potted plants and fruit trees.
Tropics Hydroponics Farm - 227-5546
Monday-Friday, 8-12 noon Saturday mornings, La Reine Market
St.Croix Map #13
Owned and run by Brian and Linda McCulough, this farm specializes in growing high quality Bib lettuce as well as beefsteak and cluster vine ripened tomatoes. They use no soil - only hydroponics feeding well water nutrition to all of their plants...well water that has been purified through reverse osmosis, ph balanced and enriched with a special blend of nutrients and micro-nutrients! In addition to serving the public, the Hospitality industry is their primary market delivering local produce to fine restaurants on St. Croix.
VI Farmers' Cooperative - 643-4354
7-3pm every Saturday
St. Croix Map #12
The goal of this 78-member Cooperative is to revive the agriculture industry and begin pooling farmers' produce in hope of getting a more consistent supply of locally grown food. You can check out their market every Saturday at Estate Grange across from the VI Health & Fitness Center. They plan to create a permanent farmers' market here to stay open six days a week giving the community and the farmers a steady headquarters for the buying and selling of local produce helping to promote the resurgence of St. Croix's agricultural industry.]]>
Metal sculptor and former St. Croix resident Trudi Gilliam will be the featured artist at Designworks for the January 21 edition of Art Thursday. The show, titled "Mermaid's Tears," is Trudi's latest collection of work incorporating sea glass, copper, brass, driftwood, and paint.
"Mermaid's tears is a term used in folklore for sea glass," says Gilliam. "My passion for beachcombing has given me a trove of sea glass from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans as well as the Caribbean Sea. When I heard the term mermaid's tears, I liked the image. It provided me with an unusual focus for using the glass along with my metal work. I enjoy collaborating with the forces of nature-sand, sea, and time-to create a one-of-a-kind piece of sculpture. The colors and texture of the glass are so appealing. One cannot help but wonder, 'What is its history, its use, how did it come to wash up on the shore of a particular beach?' My ability to give the sea glass pieces new life is also part of the motivation for incorporating it into my work."
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The show's work focuses on the use of sea glass in a variety of designs, both realistic and abstract. A mermaid's mask, seascapes, and the mermaid herself are represented. Trudi's always unusual and decorative weavings provide a format for the application of pieces of sea glass for color, texture, and mood. These are open-ended works of art that require the viewer to bring his or her own experiences to the interpretation of each piece. Trudi is also exhibiting new pieces of sea glass jewelry along with her latest sculptures.
"Mermaid's Tears" opens with a reception for the artist from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 21. Trudi Gilliam will be on hand to talk with art patrons and friends alike. The show will be on display through February 17. Designworks is located in historic Apothecary Hall in downtown Christiansted at No. Six Company Street. For more information, contact Richard Harris at 713- 8102 or 643-1952.
St. Croix collectors have enjoyed seeing their island through Trudi's eyes since the early 70s when she moved to St. Croix from New Jersey. She started out as an art teacher selling her work through galleries and auctions but eventually eliminated the middleman to "sell her works more affordably." Lots of people will remember Trudi's infamous gallery/studio in the Comanche Walk in Christiansted so "people could see me work." Here she sold, took requests, and did commissioned sculptures, murals, mobiles, and wall reliefs.
Gilliam's work has undergone lots of change over the years from lizards, birds, goats, ferns, West Indian houses and reef life, to abstract forms. Her use of media has changed as well. She likes working with natural things - brass, copper, and steel - some new, some scrap - against local woods like mahogany, Tibet, even driftwood. With her cutting torch and anvil, Trudi both shapes the metals and creates their richly textured surfaces.
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Menu offerings include Caribbean soups like Cruzan Black Bean, Vegan Kallaloo, and Curried Coconut Stew cooked and served hot. The award-winning Mango Spacho, Creamy Spinach, and Spicy Carrot raw soups are served chilled. Appetizer choices -- Cashew Nut Hummus served with flax crackers and the Avocado Nori Roll.
With everything made-to-order, there is a selection of fillings for sandwiches and wraps, a variety of delicious designer salads and live food entrees like Jamaican Wild Rice, Coconut Pad Thai, and Zucchini Fettuccini. All the sauces and dressings are house made. Free of sugar, dairy and soy products, desserts include Gelato, Cheesecake, Chocolate Tart, Baklava, and Coconut Macaroons.
We serve over 30 fresh vegetable juices like the Immune Booster Special and Fresh Fruit Smoothies like mango, pineapple, banana and coconut milk plus local drinks like ginger root as well as refreshing iced organic green teas and herbal infusions. Bonterra organic wines are offered by the glass or bottle.
We offer take out and local delivery, business and personal accounts, and catering and space is available for lectures and workshops, and also private functions.
The Shop at KALIMA Center stocks organic vitamins and whole food supplements, organic body care, teas, herbs, and herbal remedies, essential oils, homeopathic medicine, crystals, candles, books, and gift baskets.
Sit back and relax in this beautiful oasis and enjoy some of the most unique food you will find anywhere. Lalita, across from Government House, is open from 8 am to 9 pm. Reservations recommended. For more information, call 719-4417 or visit www.kalimacenter.org.]]>