Hello Virgin Islands, I am Marlon Penn… Representative for the Eighth Electoral District, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the Visitors and Residents of the Virgin Islands and their families, especially those in District 8… a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2016. 

With our Premier at the helm, our country was kept on course through the year 2015. The journey was not easy at times, but we stayed the course…. and through perseverance, our Premier has ensured that our Territory will emerge better and stronger in 2016.

Throughout the past year, some may have experienced several highs, while others may have suffered some lows. No matter the circumstance you may have endured over the past year, I pray that your heart, spirit and mind finds comfort in the scripture: Luke 1:37 - “For nothing will be impossible with God.”

Christmas is a time to reflect and be thankful for all we have… So let us give thanks!  Thanks to our Almighty God for continually bestowing his blessings and mercies on these beautiful islands…, as we were yet again spared the impact of any major storms.

We were also able to be our “brothers’ keeper”… assisting in recovery and rebuilding efforts of our neighboring island Dominica, which was affected by widespread damage from tropical storm Erika.

Due to our economic blessings…, we were able to lend support by the way of both financial aid and human resource support to our sister country… for that… Thanks be to God…

We are also thankful that we have made it to the end of another year…

As I look forward to 2016, there are a number of things I am optimistic about…

I am Optimistic… that we all can experience a year of great expectations…  A year of continued hope … giving… helping... and sharing.

I am Optimistic… that as true Virgin Islanders we can offer each other forgiveness… tolerance… charity… and respect for each other….  And that we continue to be a people of great strength and resilience.

I am optimistic… that our economy will continue to grow and that we will continue to work together as a people to build an ideal Virgin Islands with quality healthcare, improved quality of life and support for our small businesses.

As we journey into 2016, I ask that you look back, count the blessings that were given to you…, and leave your past failures behind.

Let us not forget the less fortunate amongst us…, pray for those who are not able to celebrate this joyous occasion. Be motivated in everything you do and be a blessing to others.

 Cleanse your words, your thoughts, and your actions. In true Virgin Islands spirit, share your blessings, give a helping hand, offer a consoling word to those in need and give a hug.

Let us embrace 2016 with a renewed strength and purpose. Let us all learn from our past… have courage for the present… and hope for the future, and may every cup overflow with rich blessings.

To all visitors and residents, especially those residing in District 8….may this Christmas end the present year on a cheerful note and make way for a bright and Prosperous 2016.

My Christmas prayer for you is that you will be blessed and may your days be filled with peace and happiness!

May God’s love surround your families and this beloved Territory… this Christmas and always…

Happy Holidays!