Senator Athneil “Bobby” Thomas’ office has partnered with Emerald Gems Foundation Inc., founded by Milton and Shalaun Newton; the V.I. Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation; and the V.I. Department of Education to distribute 150 basketballs to the territory’s public schools. The groups will distribute the basketballs during press conferences scheduled for 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the Educational Complex High School on St. Croix and 9 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School on St. Thomas.
Milton Newton, a native Virgin Islander and former college and professional athlete, is now the assistant general manager of the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks organization. Through donations like this, basketball camps and other events, Newton is happy to give back to the youth in his home community.
The senator, a former collegiate athlete himself, stated that he is honored to be partnering with Emerald Gems Foundation and the government departments on this basketball donation initiative.
“Milt and Shalaun are doing great things through their foundation,” Senator Thomas said. “Emerald Gems Foundation Inc. is focused on assisting the youth in the Virgin Islands, and I will help any way I can.”
Plans are already underway for another collaboration with the same organizers.
