USVI, BVI welcomes girl, boy, boy, girl as New Year babies

ST. CROIX — Luis Hospital officials didn’t have to wait long to earn bragging rights for having the first baby of the year in both the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

At the stroke of midnight Jan. 1, Dorgelis Audreina Mujica Cambero and Audu Jose Pereza Exteves celebrated the arrival of baby girl Aitana Cattleya Pereza Mujica. The baby weighed in at a healthy 6 pounds, 13 ounces, according to a statement from the hospital. “We are overjoyed to welcome baby Aitana as the first baby born in the territory for 2025. Moments like these remind us of the importance of family, community, and our role in ensuring the best possible start in life for the youngest members of our community,” Luis spokesperson Aniah John said in a prepared statement.

Further it noted that the “joyous occasion was marked with warm smiles and heartfelt congratulations from the hospital staff and community.” As is customary, “small gifts and donations were presented to the family” on behalf of JFL, Sonya’s Fine Island Jewelry and Premier Baby Store to commemorate the special milestone. “These support tokens reflect the hospital’s commitment to celebrating new life and fostering connections within the community,” the release stated.