April 4, 2003 — USO's Big Band Jump at the Grand Galleria April 11: Here's an opportunity to come out and enjoy an evening of jazz music, artwork, award presentation, good food and a raffle and, at the same time, help the USO in its vital support of America's sons and daughters in the armed forces.
More than a hundred Virgin Islanders are serving across the world in the military, said Cynthia Farmer of the USO. Right now USO St. Thomas is communicating with Virgin Islanders stationed far from home, sending weekly letters and gift packages — "which may contain gum, shampoo, Q-tips, or newspaper articles" about local happenings, she said.
The Big Band Jump, which starts at 5:30 p.m. and goes on until 8 p.m., will again be held at the Grand Galleria above the MAPes MONDe Gallery. It will feature the University of the Virgin Islands Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Martin Lamkin, with "Darr" Conradson as master of ceremonies. Various hotels and restaurants will showcase their appetizers and desserts, and guests will have an opportunity to look over the artwork at the MAPes MONDe Gallery. At some time during the evening, there'll be a raffle, introduction of supporters, and a surprise salute to a local hero.
Tickets are a $15 donation and they're available at Caribbean Candles at Compass Point, Deliver It Warehousing and Storage in Sub Base, Just Cuts in the Buccaneer Mall and both Modern Music shops. For more information, call 776-1884.
The USO always needs donations, as they always serve men and women in uniform away from their homes. But the need is especially great now, with so many Virgin Islanders away from home. If you'd like to make a donation, or if you go to the Jump and are especially grateful for a grand time, you could write a check payable to "USO St. Thomas" and mail it to P.O. Box 308665, St. Thomas, V.I. 00803.

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