Analyze This with Neville James

Part 2 -Host Neville James reflects on the end of July, discusses strong early voting turnout and polling site updates for the upcoming primary election, and shares observations on population trends and civic participation in the Virgin Islands. Later, caller Eric Christian joins the conversation to reminisce about the territory's rich musical history, highlighting influential musicians, bands, arrangers, and educators whose contributions help shape the Virgin Islands' cultural legacy.

Part 1 - Host Neville James speaks with VI Department of Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington, St. Croix Superintendent Carla Bastian Knight, and St. Thomas-St. John Superintendent Stefan Jurgen about preparations for the upcoming school year, including new school facilities, curriculum priorities, literacy initiatives, and student achievement data across the territory. The guests discuss the importance of phonics and early literacy, efforts to improve academic outcomes through targeted interventions, the rollout of literacy vans to promote reading in local communities, and upcoming back-to-school events designed to support students and families as schools prepare to reopen.

Part 2 - Neville James examines early voting turnout and voter engagement ahead of the Democratic Primary, highlighting record participation numbers and discussing election trends across the Virgin Islands. Later, Raymond James of Rattan Investments shares the results of the Rattan Poll, offering insight into the gubernatorial, delegate-to-Congress, and senatorial races while exploring voter sentiment, leadership concerns, and key issues shaping the 2026 election.

Part 1 - Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA), joins Neville James with an update on drought impacts, wildfire risks, water conservation efforts, hurricane season forecasts, emergency preparedness initiatives, FEMA programs, and the importance of remaining vigilant as the territory enters the peak months of hurricane season.

Part 2 - Mike McCormick of the USVI Poison Control Center joins Neville James to discuss the growing risks associated with unregulated "gas station drugs," edible THC products, and social media challenges affecting children and teens. McCormick shares prevention strategies for parents, highlights the importance of safe storage and education as students return to school, and explains how Poison Control helps residents respond to potential poisonings and overdoses.

Part 1 - VIPD Commissioner Mario Brooks joins Neville James to discuss the recent loss of Officer Charles, ongoing homicide investigations, and the challenges facing law enforcement in the Virgin Islands. Brooks addresses crime trends, gun violence, illegal firearms, police recruitment, and community cooperation, while emphasizing the need for conflict resolution, stronger public involvement, and continued efforts to improve public safety across the territory.

Part 2 - Neville James wraps up his conversation with Carolyn Fawkes, Supervisor of Elections, with an update on record-breaking early voting turnout, absentee ballot procedures, and preparations for the upcoming Democratic Primary Election. Dynel Lang of the Virgin Islands Department of Education then shares details about upcoming back-to-school events, school reopening plans, and resources available to students and families across the territory.

Part 1 - Supervisor Carolyn Fawkes of the Virgin Islands Election System join Neville James to discuss early voting turnout. Fawkes reports record-breaking early voting participation ahead of the Democratic primary and provides voters with important election information.

Part 2 - Table Talk continues with Malik Sekou and Dr. Patricia Morris as they discuss declining voter turnout, population loss, and public confidence in the Virgin Islands political system. They examine the factors driving these trends and encourage residents to stay engaged in the democratic process and focus on candidates offering real policy solutions.

Part 1 -  Host Neville James opens the week with reflections on Virgin Islands politics, culture, and voter participation as the territory approaches the primary election season. Joined by Dr. Malik Sekou and Dr. Carlyle Morris for Table Talk, he examines trends in voter turnout over the last four gubernatorial primary cycles, discusses the historical evolution of democratic participation in the Virgin Islands, and explores the relationship between residents and their elected leaders.

Part 2 - Host Neville James is joined by members of Duke University's Heat Policy Innovation Hub, welcoming Ashley Ward, Lynn Ward, and students Nick Contes, Parker Upton, Tim Jung, Christopher Connor, Hunjin Lee, Catherine Hua, Melana Flores, and Bree Hidalgo to reflect on their two-month stay in St. Croix. The students share insights from their heat-mapping and climate resilience research, discuss the lasting impact of collecting and analyzing data in the field, and highlight the Virgin Islands' natural beauty, culture, and hospitality that made their experience both meaningful and memorable. Host Neville James celebrates their contributions while encouraging the students to return to the Virgin Islands and continue building on the relationships and research established during their summer residency.

Part 1 - Host Neville James wraps up the week with a lively mix of Virgin Islands weather, music, and community conversation, featuring birthday wishes for caller “Chin” of St. John and listener contributions from Frank of Frenchtown. Later, Ashley Ward and Duke University students Bree Hidalgo, Christopher Connor, and Hanjin Lee discuss their summer research with the Heat Policy Innovation Hub, reflecting on their experience collecting climate and heat-related data in St. Croix and sharing what they have learned about the Virgin Islands, its people, and the challenges of climate resilience.

Part 2 - Host Neville James continues a spirited Bush Tea conversation with Dwayne Henry, Frank from Frenchtown, and Malcolm De Castro, as listeners share memories of the historic Antilles Airboats “Goose” seaplanes and the Virgin Islands' rich transportation and community history. Later, Senator Marvin Blyden discusses the challenges facing housing development in the territory, the impact of rising construction costs and federal funding concerns, and previews the upcoming Innovative Housing Construction Summit, aimed at expanding homeownership opportunities and promoting affordable, resilient building solutions in the Virgin Islands.

Part 1 - Host Neville James takes listeners on a lively journey through Virgin Islands music and cultural history, exploring the local connections behind classic recordings by Tommy Olivencia, The Mamas and the Papas, and jazz greats such as Charlie Parker and Louis Armstrong. Joined by guests Dwayne Henry and Frank from Frenchtown for Bush Tea, the conversation highlights the rich heritage of Charlotte Amalie, Frenchtown, seaplane travel, and the people and places that helped shape the Virgin Islands' unique story.

Part 2 - Host Neville James is joined by WTJX Chief Executive Officer Tanya-Marie Singh, WTJX Newsfeed Reporter Marcelina Ventura-Douglas, and Virgin Islands Consortium Publisher Ernest Gilbert to discuss the planning, execution, and community response to WTJX and the Virgin Islands Consortium's Democratic primary debates, highlighting their efforts to create a more substantive and informative forum for voters ahead of the August 1 primary election.

Part 1 - Host Neville opens with a candid discussion of legislative fairness, district representation, and the ongoing debate over horse-racing redevelopment, gaming legislation, and the future of the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix. 

Part 2 - Former Senator Roosevelt David joined Neville James to reflect on the golden era of West Indies cricket, discussing legendary players while sharing insights on various teams. Later, AARP Virgin Islands State Director Troy De Chabert-Schuster highlights the upcoming Elder Justice Summit, focusing on probate reform, housing stability, estate planning, and elder abuse prevention, while also addressing broader community concerns including housing, healthcare, energy costs, and the future development of the Virgin Islands.

Part 1 - Host Neville James is joined by a representative from the National Weather Service to discuss Tropical Storm Bertha, Saharan dust conditions, heat and rainfall forecasts, and what residents, boaters, and beachgoers can expect in the days ahead.  Neville also discussed the federal suspension of certain disaster recovery funds, its implications for the Virgin Islands, and the growing debate among Democratic primary candidates over leadership, accountability, and relations with Washington.

Part 2 - Guests Malik Sekou, Eric Christian, and Julian Hendricks joined host Neville James for a conversation on  Virgin Islands history, culture, and music. Sekou examined the forces that shaped Caribbean society, including creolization, African retention, cosmopolitanism, and cultural cross-fertilization. At the same time, Christian and Hendricks shared stories highlighting the Virgin Islands' role in nurturing musical talent and influencing artists from across the region.

Part 1 - Guests Eric Christian and Julian Hendricks joined host Neville James on Analyze This for a lively discussion about the rich musical history of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Christian shared firsthand memories of performing with and alongside legendary Virgin Islands musicians, including members of Milo and the Kings, while reflecting on the role of school music programs in developing generations of local talent. Hendricks contributed additional historical insights about notable performers and bands that played in the territory, highlighting the Virgin Islands' connections to internationally recognized artists and musical movements.

Part 2 - Tanya-Marie Singh, CEO of WTJX, and Virgin Islands tennis coach Kevin Motta join Neville James to discuss WTJX's upcoming Democratic primary debates, election coverage, and voter engagement. Motta also highlights the Virgin Islands' tennis legacy, recent international competition, and opportunities to strengthen youth sports development. Amy DeSorbo, Director of the Division of Libraries, Archives and Museums, and interns from the Florence Williams Public Library, join Neville James to share their educational goals, career aspirations, and experiences in summer learning and mentorship programs.

Part 1 - Danica M. David joins Neville James to discuss Creative Callaloo: Art, Poems, and Recipes Inspired by the Virgin Islands, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands' 2026 Great Reads selection. David reflects on her journey as an artist, educator, and first-time author, sharing stories of growing up in St. Croix, the cultural influences of her grandmothers, and the importance of preserving Virgin Islands traditions through art, literature, and food. The program also highlights the role of local authors in documenting Virgin Islands heritage, celebrates the territory's growing creative community, and features a conversation on the value of public broadcasting and upcoming WTJX gubernatorial, lieutenant governor, and delegate debates.

Part 2 - Dwayne Henry joins host Neville James for a wide-ranging discussion on a federal judge's ruling that criticized a settlement involving President Donald Trump, examining legal ethics, presidential power, attorney discipline, and the role of the courts in maintaining government accountability. The conversation also explores recent court challenges involving federal election oversight, the importance of judicial independence, and the balance of power among the branches of government.

Part 1 - Host Neville James talks with National Weather Service meteorologist Gloria De Vera about improving weather conditions in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including less Saharan dust, chances of rain, humidity, and conditions for beaches and boating. He then discusses Argentina's World Cup semifinal win over England and the historical impact of the Falklands Islands dispute.

Part 2 - Host Neville James welcomes John Wilkins to discuss the U.S. Virgin Islands Davis Cup team's impressive showing in Paraguay, the growth of local tennis talent, and upcoming sports tourism events across the territory. Former Senate President Armando “Rocky” Liburd joined the conversation to share his thoughts on Virgin Islands athletics, tennis, and the importance of investing in youth sports development. The episode also highlighted the achievements of Virgin Islands athletes on the regional and international stage while exploring opportunities to expand sports tourism and community engagement through tennis and pickleball.

Part 1 - Shannell Spencer, Director of Corporate Communications for WAPA, provided an update on the St. Thomas and St. John power outages, restoration efforts, and ongoing work on the Feeder 13 Bypass Project aimed at improving system reliability. Host Neville James also led an in-depth conversation about WAPA's long-standing infrastructure and financial challenges, highlighting historical context and taking listener calls on potential solutions for the territory's energy future.

Part 2 - Host Neville James speaks with Alicia Barnes of Rittenhouse Consulting, Keith Couch of Suffolk Construction, and David Marmas of AmeriCaribe about the status of the U.S. Virgin Islands school reconstruction projects being managed through the Suffolk-AmeriCaribe joint venture. The guests provide updates on major education facilities on St. Thomas and St. Croix, including Bowsky, E. Benjamin Oliver, Lockhart, Pearl B. Larsen, Alexander Henderson, Alfredo Andrews, and Claude O. Markoe, explaining that design, permitting, contractor outreach, and pre-construction activities are well underway, with initial construction and demolition work expected to begin soon.

Part 1 - Neville James is joined by Shannell Spencer, Director of Corporate Communications for the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA), to provide an update on planned redundancy work, fuel-supply challenges, and a district-wide outage affecting St. Thomas and St. John, explaining ongoing efforts to improve system reliability. Later, Neville discusses the outage with callers Chin of St. John and Frank of Frenchman's Bay while also sharing historical Virgin Islands Daily News editions provided by Ruben Roebuck, leading to a conversation about local history and preservation.

Part 2 - Table Talk continues with Neville James, Dr. Malik Sékou, Attorney Dwayne Henry, and Dr. Pat Morris for a wide-ranging Table Talk discussion on racism in international soccer, focusing on the controversy involving French star Kylian Mbappé, the historical roots of racism in sports, colonialism, and the role of African-descended players on European national teams. The panel also examines the legacy of late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, reflecting on his role during the Clinton impeachment, his evolution within the Republican Party, his support for Donald Trump, and the broader impact of political inconsistency and polarization in American politics. The conversation concludes with a discussion of the Founding Fathers, the U.S. Constitution, generational leadership, civic engagement, and the importance of history and democratic institutions in shaping the future of both the United States and the Virgin Islands.

Part 1 - Host Neville James is joined for Table Talk by Dr. Malik Sékou and Attorney Dwayne Henry as they discuss international reactions to racist remarks directed at French soccer star Kylian Mbappé, the broader issues of race, nationalism, and sports, and reflect on other current events, including the passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. The program also features Shanell Spencer, Director of Corporate Communications at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA), who provides details on planned overnight outages and infrastructure projects aimed at improving system reliability and redundancy on St. Thomas and St. John.

Part 2 - Host Neville James is joined by Shamari Haynes, Deputy Commissioner of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, Sheniqua Robinson, Communications Specialist, and Kalahari Bryan, Social Media Specialist, to discuss the territory's tourism initiatives and year-round visitor growth. The conversation highlights tourism marketing efforts, community partnerships, major cultural events, social media engagement, and national recognition for St. John, including recent Travel + Leisure awards. The guests also share updates on supporting local festivals, promoting the Virgin Islands as a premier destination, and expanding opportunities in areas such as sports tourism, ecotourism, and cultural tourism.

Part 1 - Kyle Fleming, Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Energy Office, and Shomari Moorhead join Neville James for a Power Hour discussion on energy innovation and infrastructure across the territory. The conversation covers electric vehicles, public charging stations, battery storage technology, marine electrification initiatives, and the growing role of renewable energy in the Virgin Islands. Fleming also discusses opportunities for expanding sustainable transportation, reducing energy costs, and strengthening the territory's long-term energy resilience.

Part 2 - Host Neville James welcomes author and historian Kathleen Dowling to discuss her latest book, Blood in Bassin, which examines the events surrounding Emancipation in Christiansted and the bloodshed that occurred in the days following July 3, 1848. Dolan shares insights from her extensive research in the Danish National Archives, highlighting the roles of General Buddhoe (John Gottlieb), Governor General Peter von Scholten, and the enslaved Virgin Islanders whose stories shaped the territory's history.

Part 1 - Host Neville James welcomes Eric Sonnier, Executive Director of the University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park (RT Park), and Sidney Powell, Director of Marketing, to discuss the organization's expanding impact on STEM education, workforce development, and economic diversification in the Virgin Islands. The conversation highlights the success of RT Park's summer STEM camps, growing partnerships with UVI, support from technology leaders such as Rashida Hodge, and efforts to prepare the next generation for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Part 2 - Host Neville James discusses healthcare challenges and recovery efforts following a conversation with Darlene Carty-Baptiste, CEO of the territory's public hospitals, highlighting infrastructure projects, dialysis services, and hospital operations. The program further examines the upcoming Democratic primary election, early voting procedures, and profiles the candidates seeking elected office in the Virgin Islands.

Part 1 - Host Neville James welcomes Darlene Carty-Baptiste, CEO of the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Schneider Regional Medical Center, for a discussion on the state of healthcare in the Virgin Islands and ongoing efforts to strengthen hospital operations. Carty-Baptiste provides updates on the Cancer Institute, hospital rebuilding projects, supply chain improvements, financial challenges, and the integration of healthcare services across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. The conversation also explores dialysis services, workforce needs, cybersecurity recovery, population health trends, and the long-term future of healthcare delivery in the territory.

Part 2 - Host Neville James welcomes former Senator Janet Millin Young to discuss the upcoming Women of Resilience Conference and the importance of empowering women through leadership, education, and networking opportunities. Millin Young highlights the conference's lineup of presenters, including Jennifer Nugent-Hill, Asia Clendenin, and Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King, while emphasizing career development, financial literacy, and workforce trends.

Part 1 - Host Neville James speaks with Frank from French Town and “Chin” from St. John about the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the global popularity of soccer, and the controversy surrounding U.S. player eligibility and political involvement in the tournament. The conversation examines standout teams and players, including Norway, England, France, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Cape Verde, while reflecting on the passion and cultural significance of international football.

Part 2 - Table Talk continues with Neville James, Doug Scovel, Dr. Patricia Morris, and attorney Hannibal O'Brien in a discussion on the U.S. Supreme Court's recent birthright citizenship ruling. The panel examines the historical origins of the 14th Amendment, the legal significance of citizenship rights, and the contrasting views expressed by Justices Clarence Thomas and Ketanji Brown Jackson. The conversation also explores immigration, race, constitutional law, the Virgin Islands' place in the American political landscape, and the broader social and political implications of the Court's decision.

Part 1 - Host Neville James is joined by Malik Sekou, Doug Scovel, Dr. Wayne Morrison, and attorney Hannibal O'Bryan for Table Talk.  They engage in a discussion on Saharan dust conditions, drought concerns, and the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court's recent birthright citizenship ruling. The panel examines the historical and legal foundations of citizenship, the 14th Amendment, and the differing perspectives expressed by Justices Clarence Thomas and Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Part 2 - Host Neville James welcomes Dawn Henry of Island Green Living to discuss the organization's recycling initiative during the St. John Emancipation and Fourth of July Celebration. Henry highlights efforts to collect aluminum cans, plastic water bottles, and clear plastic cups from the festival village while encouraging the public to properly separate recyclables from food waste.

Part 1 - Host Neville James welcomes Shomari Moorhead of Our Town Frederiksted for a discussion on upcoming Emancipation and Independence weekend events, including the final Rhythms at Sunset concert featuring The Troublemakers, Mike Love, and Pressure Busspipe. Moorhead highlights ongoing efforts to revitalize Frederiksted through cultural programming, economic development initiatives, and community investment.

Part 2 - Host Neville James engages with Tishelle Knight, the 2026 St. John Celebration Village honoree, for a conversation celebrating her distinguished career as a singer, songwriter, and cultural ambassador of the Virgin Islands. Knight reflected on her musical journey from studying at the Duke Ellington School of the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., to performing with Cool Session Brass and Climax Band, while sharing stories about her family's deep roots in Virgin Islands music and culture.

Part 1 - Host Neville James opened the program by celebrating Tishelle Knight's recognition during the 2026 St. John Festival, highlighting her contributions to Virgin Islands culture and music, including her work with Cool Session Brass and Climax Band. Joined by callers Frank and “Chin,” he reflects on St. John traditions, festival memories, local geography, and the island's rich cultural and maritime history.

Part 2 - Host Neville James discusses recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings with attorney Dwayne Henry, focusing on decisions that expand presidential authority over independent federal agencies while preserving limited protections for the Federal Reserve. The conversation examines constitutional interpretation, the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches, government oversight, regulatory independence, and concerns about the long-term implications for democracy and accountability.

Part 1 - Host Neville James welcomes Dr. Anne Louise Lockhart, St. Croix native, psychologist, author, and national speaker, for a conversation about her journey from Hurricane Hugo survivor and St. Joseph High School graduate to publishing her new book, Love the Teen You Have. Dr. Lockhart shared insights from her work with children, teens, and families, discussing adolescent development, parenting challenges, mental health, ADHD, anxiety, and the impact of excessive social media use on young people. The discussion also highlighted her upcoming book signing at Undercover Books and her mission to equip parents with practical tools to better understand, support, and connect with their teenagers.

Part 2 - Table Talk continues with Neville James, Dr. Malek Sekou and Donald “Ducks” Cole in a discussion on leadership, governance, and the role of age, experience, and political maturity in public service. The conversation explored the history of elected governors in the Virgin Islands, succession planning within political parties, the importance of balancing youthful leadership with the wisdom and guidance of elders, current national political trends, term limits, leadership effectiveness, and democratic institutions, while Neville highlighted upcoming WTJX coverage of the St. John Celebration Parade and the Democratic primary debates.

Part 1 - Host Neville James welcome Dr. Malek Sekou and Donald “Ducks” Cole for Table Talk and a wide-ranging discussion on Virgin Islands political history, focusing on the constitutional conventions that helped pave the way for elected governors and other self-governance reforms. They discussedcurrent political issues, including New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's response to questions about presidential eligibility, while reflecting on leadership, governance, and the evolution of democracy in the Virgin Islands.

Part 2 - Host Neville James speaks with George “Soul” Thomas, founder of the legendary Dominican band Gramacks, about the group's origins, early struggles, and rise to international acclaim. Thomas shares stories about forming the band in St. Joseph, Dominica, traveling to Guadeloupe in search of opportunities, and developing the distinctive sound that helped make Gramacks one of the Caribbean's most influential bands. The conversation also explores the creation and global success of the classic hit “Mi déba,” including Thomas's role as songwriter, arranger, and guitarist.

Part 1 - Host Neville James welcomes Kendell Henry, aka KC, of the Ten Sleepless Knights and the Department of Tourism, for a discussion on Virgin Islands culture, heritage, and upcoming Emancipation celebrations. KC highlights the annual Quelbe Tramp in Frederiksted, the importance of preserving quelbe music, and the growing recognition of Virgin Islands culture through local and national folklife festivals. The conversation also explores the history of the 1878 Fireburn, the legacy of the Four Queens, and the cultural significance of classic Virgin Islands songs including Queen Mary and Freedom. The program additionally features a WAPA update from Shanell Spencer on power rotation in the St. Thomas–St. John district.

Part 2 - Host Neville James welcomes Dr. Ashley Ward and Duke University students Hyunjin Lee, Nick Kantos, Dylan McCarthy, Melena Flores, Christopher Connors, Parker Upton, and Dresden Benke to discuss their Heat Policy Innovation Hub fieldwork in St. Croix. The students share insights on climate data collection, environmental challenges, career paths, and their personal experiences studying engineering, statistics, and science while engaging with the Virgin Islands community. Dr. Ward highlights interdisciplinary collaboration and future partnerships with the University of the Virgin Islands, as the group reflects on resilience, equity, and the next generation of scientific leadership.