St. Croix trio gain Senate backing for formal honors

A Senate committee has approved three separate measures to recognize the accomplishments of St. Croix residents whose work spans music education, professional athletics and community service.

On Monday, the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection, led by Senator Avery Lewis, cleared the bills for further legislative consideration. The three honorees are musician and educator Kevré Hendricks, former Major League Baseball player Jerome "Jerry" Browne, and the late caregiver Maude "Maudie" Dowdy Roberts, who died on September 3, 2022, on her 100th birthday.

Hendricks' Musical and Educational Impact

Bill 36-0320, introduced by Senator Kurt Vialet, recognizes Hendricks for his work in music, education, military service and cultural preservation. Hendricks has claimed 12 Road March titles, 10 as a member of Fusion Band and two with Black Empire, and established Maestro Productions. His teaching career spans more than two decades, beginning at Arthur A. Richards Junior High School and continuing as Director of Bands at St. Croix Educational Complex.

Testimony highlighted his influence across multiple generations and sectors. Sergeant First Class Daniel Nibbs of the Virgin Islands Army National Guard Band said Hendricks "helped create a cycle in which musicians became soldiers, soldiers became educators and mentors, and those educators began developing another generation of young Virgin Islands musicians." Dr. Erick Willie, a former student who later became assistant principal at St. Croix Educational Complex High School, noted that Hendricks' instruction "extended far beyond the rehearsal room and prepared us to navigate the challenges of life."

Senator Vialet emphasized the broader impact: "I want him to be an inspiration to more." If enacted, Hendricks will receive a permanent plaque and a copy of the resolution.

Browne's Journey From Christiansted to the Majors

Bill 36-0218, sponsored by Senator Angel Bolques Jr., honors Browne for his 10-season Major League Baseball career and his work with young athletes on St. Croix. The measure would give Prince Street in Christiansted an honorary designation bearing his name.

Browne grew up in Christiansted and was recruited by the Texas Rangers before high school. He made his Major League debut in 1986 and later returned to the island to coach minor league players and establish a baseball camp for local youth.

Pastor Dexter Skeppel told lawmakers that the street designation carries symbolic weight for young people: "He continues to help other young men to give them insight that their dream can become a reality. The Jerry Browne Street represents a possibility that you can come from some place small and go to some place big."

Posthumous Recognition for Frederiksted Caregiver

Bill 36-0323, introduced by Senator Kenneth Gittens, honors Dowdy Roberts and proposes an honorary designation of "Maude 'Maudie' Dowdy Roberts Drive" on Prince Street in Frederiksted. The historic street name will remain, with new signage added to recognize her.

Downy Roberts was a self-employed caregiver whose home became a refuge for Frederiksted's young people. Her granddaughter, Janice Hansen-Murray, testified that families across the territory "entrusted their children to her care, knowing they would be treated with warmth, discipline, and unconditional love."

All three measures must complete the full legislative process before becoming law.