🌱Hear From Russians, Ukrainians In USVI + Bryan Pushes Racetrack

Before I kick off with the headlines, one quick plug: tomorrow is the last day to comment on the redevelopment plans for Caneel Bay. Your opinion really does matter. Comments must be submitted in writing and you can do so online here.

Now let's get to it!

• Governor Bryan submitted a proposed bill to the Legislature on Wednesday intended to nudge forward the redevelopment of the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas. The Government of the Virgin Islands, Southland Gaming and VIGL recently settled a lawsuit over redevelopment plans. Read more in the VI Consortium.
• The USVI will experience a short-term drought from March through May, according to the Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF). CariCOF is one of several Regional Climate Outlook Forums, groups that analyze real-time weather trends and provide seasonal climate forecasts. They are sponsored by the World Meteorological Organization. The Consortium has the full story.
• Gov. Bryan committed to a three-year wage agreement with the teachers' union, assuring higher salaries for teachers and support staff at all public schools. Full story in the Daily News.
• Several Russians and Ukrainians living in the USVI share their stories and thoughts on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, via the Daily News.

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Today's weather: Partly sunny with a shower. High: 83 Low: 74.

Today's Events:

• Food, Music, and Drinks at E's Garden Teahouse and Things in Charlotte Amalie (4:30 p.m.)
• VI Skateboarding Community Session at the Cruz Bay Tennis Courts (5:00 p.m.)
• FREE Hula Hoop Class at Brewer's Bay (5:30 p.m.)
• After Irma Band at Tickle's Dockside Pub in Charlotte Amalie (6:00 p.m.)
• Live music at the Stone House Cafe in Charlotte Amalie with Daril Scott (6:00 p.m.)

Social Buzz:

• Social Media Question of the Week: Best pizza on the island? Don't miss all 58 responses. (What's Going On St. Thomas?)
• Thanks to you, our Gala Auction and Raffles raised $44,000. A huge shout out to the incredible business community in the Virgin Islands. (Friends of Virgin Islands National Park)
• "This week, in honor of Virgin Islands History Month, we highlight the Baobab Tree on St. Croix. St. Croix is home to the oldest Baobab tree in the Caribbean, brought over from South Africa and planted over 250 years ago. It's known locally as “Guinea Almond” or “Guinea Tamarind.” Baobab trees grow up to 25 meters tall and can live for thousands of years. There was a gruesome moment in this tree’s history. In 1878, a dozen women involved in the Fireburn riot were burned alive at the Grove Place baobab." (Government House - US Virgin Islands)
• Join the VIDE Division of Music Education & Programs for the first installment of "Fine Arts Fridays" on Friday, March 4 at 4 p.m. on VIDE Facebook Live! "Enjoy great Fine Arts programming every Friday in March!" (Facebook)
• Reminder: The current public comment period on the future of Caneel Bay closes tomorrow (Friday, March 4). Your opinion matters! (Facebook)
• Don't miss this exhibition: Spirit, Artistry and Craft of Moko Jumbies at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts. Tickets required. Saturday from 3pm-7pm. (CMCArts)

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I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow with your next update.

— Ashleigh Baldwin

About me: I'm the Patch Community News Editor for the U.S. Virgin Islands. I'm here to provide news you can use. Do you have a news tip, question or feedback? Please contact me at ashleigh.baldwin@patch.com.