Part 2 - Host Neville James is joined by Senator Novelle Francis, Chair of the Budget, Appropriations and Finance Committee, to discuss the upcoming FY2027 Virgin Islands budget, current revenues and expectations for increased collections driven by disaster recovery projects. They also examine key fiscal issues including WAPA’s ongoing energy challenges, federal funding reliance, property tax revenues, and the importance of accountability and performance based budgeting. The discussion broadens to long-term priorities like food security, agriculture development, and infrastructure improvements, with both emphasizing the need for strategic investment and coordinated planning to strengthen the territory’s economy.

Part 1 - Host Neville James explores the rich history and economic impact of rum production in the Virgin Islands, highlighting brands like Cruzan Rum, Captain Morgan Rum, Botany Bay Rum, and Bones Rum, while examining how aging, distillation, and barrel use contribute to flavor and value. Callers add local insights about rum shops, distilleries, and traditions, reinforcing the deep cultural and historical roots of rum production across the territory. Neville emphasizes the industry’s importance to government revenue and plans further discussion with experts like Marvin Pickering and Senator Novelle Francis on its financial and economic significance.

Part 2 - Host Neville James explores geography and culture, discussing time zones, the equator, and the location of American Samoa while highlighting Caribbean musical influences through salsa and jazz artists like Marvin Santiago. He also reflects on Santiago’s life and career, including his musical success and struggles with addiction, using it as an example of the challenges faced by many artists. The segment concludes with a spirited political discussion between Neville and caller Kerry, debating a Texas U.S. Senate runoff and broader national politics, including loyalty, elections, and leadership.

Part 1 - Host Neville James is joined by VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen, who outlines hurricane season preparedness, including shelter readiness across the islands, emergency operations planning, and the importance of residents preparing homes, supplies, and insurance ahead of storms. They also speak with Maria from the National Weather Service, who provides an update on current conditions, highlighting Sahara dust, breezy winds, and a relatively quiet start to hurricane season. The discussion emphasizes proactive planning, communication tools like Alert VI, and the need for residents to remain self-sufficient and vigilant throughout the June through November hurricane season.

Part 2 - Host Neville James continues his conversation with Lolo Willis and Arthur Solomon as they share memories of Virgin Islanders’ strong educational ties to institutions like Morgan State, Howard, and Hampton, while highlighting influential mentors and the importance of discipline and community support. The conversation also honors the legacy of jazz legend Sonny Rollins and several Virgin Islands saxophonists, emphasizing the territory’s global cultural impact, especially in music. The trio closes with a spirited discussion on the New York Knicks’ playoff run, debating coaching, roster decisions, and the team’s championship potential.

Part 1 - Host Neville James reflects on recent events, offering condolences for the passing of Mabel “Brady” Simmons and jazz legend Sonny Rollins, whose Virgin Islands roots are highlighted as part of his celebrated musical legacy. He is joined by callers Lolo Willis and Arthur Solomon, who discuss sports, Virgin Islands history, and personal connections, including the passing of educator Arthur Jemison and memories of basketball at Morgan State.

Part 2 - Host Neville James speaks with Imani Evans (president) and Olivia Walton (board member) of St. Croix Pride, who discuss the organization’s growth since its founding, especially after the impactful 2018 Pride parade, and highlight a full calendar of June events promoting community, visibility, and inclusion. The guests emphasize how Pride initiatives have helped foster greater acceptance in the Virgin Islands, encouraging dialogue, understanding, and respect for LGBTQ+ individuals across the community.

Part 1 - Host Neville James interviews Dr. Pat Morris and Akeem Durant of the Community Impact Fund, who promote upcoming business summits on St. Croix and St. Thomas aimed at helping entrepreneurs access capital, training, and networking opportunities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship and economic development in the Virgin Islands, while James also highlights local culture and music and revisits earlier conversations about leveraging resources like mahogany for economic growth.

Part 2 - Host Neville James wraps up a discussion with resident historian Frank, reflecting on the cultural and historical importance of mahogany craftsmanship in the Virgin Islands and the need to revive and promote it locally. He then interviews Anna Holly, Barbara Michaud, and founder Charlene Kehoe of Cancer Support VI, who discuss their upcoming St. Croix fundraiser, their mission to provide financial aid and resources to cancer patients, and ongoing efforts to raise awareness and improve access to care.

Part 1 - Host Neville James discusses Virgin Islands culture and economic opportunities, highlighting insights from past guests Marina Lake, Dr. Morris, Dr. Sekou, Senator Fredericks, and Lolo, while emphasizing the importance of promoting Quelbe music and local industries. He shares information (inspired by a conversation with Dwayne Fogger) about the history and value of mahogany woodworking through St. Croix LEAP, stressing its economic and cultural potential. Caller Frank joins the conversation to explore the historical significance of mahogany in the Caribbean and its role in culture, trade, and craftsmanship, reinforcing the need to preserve and capitalize on this heritage.