Members of the 35th Legislature, led by Senate President Novelle E. Francis Jr., held a Perma Plaque Ceremony Thursday at the Capitol Building. Lawmakers posthumously honored Wayne “Facts Man” Adams, Benburin “Benny” Stephans, and former Senator Horace A. Callwood Sr. for their exceptional services to the territory.
Francis shared remarks on the honorees. “It is an honor to bring greetings on behalf of the 35th Legislature as we honor Virgin Islanders for their outstanding contributions to the territory. My colleagues and I are proud to honor and commend Wayne “Facts Man” Adams (Act 8789), Benburin “Benny” Stephans (Act 8733), and former Senator Horace A. Callwood, Sr. (Act 8706). Today we take another step forward in posthumously recognizing trailblazers in our community.”
Derek Gabriel, commissioner of the Virgin Islands Public Works, also praised the honorees. “They did all they could to push the territory forward. I would like to thank the families for being strong supporters of those public servants.”
The naming of a road after a Virgin Islander holds significance. It’s not about naming roads. It is about celebrating the history, culture, and honorable contributions of the Virgin Islands, according to the press release.
The measures are as follows:
Act No. 8789, Bill No. 35-0014: An Act honoring and commending Wayne “Facts Man” Adams posthumously for articulating and bringing events of the Virgin Islands by naming the bridge at the Estate Nadir intersection on the island of St. Thomas “The Wayne Facts Man Adams Bridge.”
Act No. 8733—Bill No. 35-0033: An Act to honor and commend Benburin “Benny” Stephans posthumously for his heroism in saving the lives of a mother and her children and to rename the Bovoni Road (Route No. 30), specifically from the entrance of St. Middle School, “The Benburin “Benny” Drive.
Act No. 8706—Bill No. 35-0011: An Act honoring and commending former Senator Horace A. Callwood, Sr., posthumously for his dedication, service, and commitment to the people of the Virgin Islands, as well as naming the north-south street immediately east of Windward Passage in his memory.
The Virgin Islands Legislature passes resolutions to honor and appreciate Virgin Islanders’ contributions and sacrifices. These individuals or organizations have exceptional records of public service that have improved our community or have demonstrated remarkable achievements in or contributions to their respective fields or crafts, the press release stated.
Senators present at the Perma Plaque Ceremony included Novelle E. Francis Jr., Marvin A. Blyden, Angel L. Bolques Jr., Milton E. Potter, Dwayne M. DeGraff, Ray Fonseca, Carla J. Joseph, and Alma Francis Heyliger.
