Gov Bryan Gives Tribute to a Fallen V.I. Icon

M.A. Dworkin

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and his entire Administration gave tribute and heartfelt condolences on the passing of Eldred “Edgie” Christian at the Press Conference held at Government House St. Croix on May 27, 2025. 

“Edgie was a bearer of our culture in the truest sense,” the Governor said of one the founding members of Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights (TSK). “His legacy will live on in the music, the memories, and by the many hearts of those he touched…Rest in peace and may his music continue to echo through these islands for generations to come.”

Communications Director Richard Motta who led the Press Briefing, had this to say about this giant of a man who played the banjo-uke and vocals and died at age 84: “Edgie was a Treasured Son of St. Croix; a master musician and beloved cultural icon in the Virgin Islands. For decades Edgie was a joyful presence in our lives, not just as a member of STK but as a bridge between generations and a keeper of our most cherished traditions. His music did not just entertain, it told our story. It captured the essence of who we are as a people, our pride, our resilience, our spirit with every note he played, with every performance, Edgie reminded us of our roots. He brought culture to life with energy, warmth, and a deep love for his community…His presence made people feel connected not just to one another, but to this place we call home.”   

Next up at the Briefing was the newly appointed Assistant Director of the Virgin Islands Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) Ovid Williams, who briefed the residents of the Virgin Islands on what the public should and should not do in regards to being prepared for the upcoming 2025 Hurricane Season. 

“While I am new to this role, I am not new to hurricanes,” Mr. Williams stated. “Like many of you I have lived through some of the most devastating storms to impact our Territory. Starting with Hurricane Hugo, Hurricane Marilyn and in most recent times Hurricane Irma and Maria. I’ve seen first hand the strength of these storms, the strength of our community, and the importance of being prepared. I say that because I take the responsibility of being prepared as a Territory very seriously. This is not just my job but my privilege.” 

Mr. Williams went to review a listing of preparedness measures that everyone should be aware of:  

Note: Specific Hurricane preparation instructions are provided by VITEMA on their website at vitema.vi.gov. Or FEMA’s website Ready.gov. 

Mr. Motta continued the Briefing on a positive note by relating the fact the Bryan-Roach Administration has officially begun distribution of thousands of retroactive wage checks to current and former Government employees.which is the beginning of the new $22.5 million disbursement that will benefit more than 8,000 public servants and retirees across the Territory. This latest distribution will deliver full payments to those owed $2,500 or less, benefiting approximately 2,300 individuals. For those owed more than $2,500 the government is issuing a partial payment of 14% ensuring that thousands more receive meaningful progress toward what they are owed. 

Mr. Motta stated that “Governor Bryan has made it clear from the start that these payments are about restoring trust, honoring service and recognizing the sacrifices by those who helped build and maintain our government’s institutions.”