FREDERIKSTED — Lt. Governor Osbert Potter officially opened the Crucian Christmas Festival Food, Arts and Craft Fair on Wednesday by recognizing this year’s fair honorees, former senator Lilliana Belardo de O’Neal and her husband, Humberto de O’Neal.
The O’Neals are renowned fixtures in the St. Croix community, known for their culinary offerings and participation in culinary events such as the annual Crucian Christmas Festival and the St. Croix Agriculture Fair.
“This is what you call a power couple,” Lieutenant Governor Potter said in a ceremony to celebrate the cultural event on Wednesday, noting their recognition is an “honor that’s well deserved”.
The ceremony included the presentation of locally made cultural gifts to the O’Neals, including a headpiece, a mortar and pestle, and a mahogany tostone-maker (tostonera).
Other officials in attendance included Virgin Islands Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, Commissioner of Police Delroy Richards, Sr., Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency Mona Barnes, and St. Croix Administrator Stephanie Williams.
Gov. Kenneth Mapp expressed his gratitude to the O’Neals for their longtime commitment to the St. Croix community.
“The O’Neals have made an indelible mark on St. Croix, and their level of community spirit is one we should all emulate,” the governor said.
