U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS—Government House Communications Director Richard Motta Jr. led the weekly press briefing, which marked Election Day Eve today.
Election Day Observance
During the briefing, he announced that tomorrow would be an important occasion as residents prepare to head to the polls for Election Day. According to Title 18, Chapter 1, Subsection 3 of the Virgin Islands Code, this day was recognized as a legal holiday in the Virgin Islands. As a result, all non-essential government offices would be closed, ensuring that Virgin Islanders could fully engage in this crucial democratic process.
Motta reminded essential workers who must work tomorrow that they are entitled to two hours off with pay to vote. He emphasized the necessity of notifying employers in advance to accommodate this time. Governor Bryan and the administration encouraged every eligible voter to make their voices heard.
Veterans Day Celebrations
Motta also announced the upcoming Veterans Day holiday on November 11th, honoring the brave men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Events were organized across the Virgin Islands to pay tribute to the veterans.
The pre-Veterans Day Ceremony was set to take place on Sunday, November 10th, at 1 p.m. on Cruz Bay, St. John. Mr. Henry A. Powell, a Vietnam veteran, would be honored. During the Veterans Day ceremonies on November 11th, retired Judge Fern A. Hodge would be honored on St. Thomas, while Mr. Wilfred Tuitt would be recognized on St. Croix.
Event Schedule:
- November 10th: Pre-Veterans Day Ceremony
- Time: 1 p.m.
- Location: Cruz Bay, St. John
- Route: From National Park grounds to Frank J. Powell Ballpark Bandstand, followed by a concert.
- November 11th: Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
- St. Thomas: 9 a.m. parade from Emil Griffith Park to Emancipation Garden for the official ceremony.
- St. Croix: 3 p.m. parade from King Street to Verne I. Richards Memorial Park, followed by a ceremony.
This year’s theme is “Loyalty,” honoring the steadfast dedication of the veterans. The entire community is warmly invited to join in the celebrations and to pay respect to those who made sacrifices for freedom.
As the briefing concluded, Motta emphasized the importance of exercising the right to vote tomorrow. He urged anyone who had not participated in early voting to take the opportunity to cast their ballot.
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