BASSETERRE: The St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA) held an official renaming ceremony yesterday morning, honouring the legacy of the late Mr. Ike Tross by dedicating the Facility 2 Waiting Room at Facility Shed 2 in his name.
The brief but meaningful ceremony brought together SCASPA executives, the Tross family, Customs and Excise representatives, and other dignitaries in a show of institutional respect and personal remembrance.
Master of Ceremonies Mr. Kervin Freeman opened proceedings, followed by the National Anthem and an invocation delivered by Mr. Shawn O’Garro, Officer in Charge of the Marine Division.
SCASPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Adeola Moore, delivered opening remarks, setting the tone for what became a deeply personal occasion for the Tross family. His sister, Ms. Paula Lewis, offered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on the man behind the recognition. Family members and close friends then shared reflections, painting a portrait of someone whose connection to the port community ran deep.
A representative from Customs and Excise also offered stakeholder greetings — an acknowledgement of the cross-agency relationships that defined Mr. Tross’ working life.
The emotional high point came when the Tross family joined SCASPA executives for the official unveiling of the renamed waiting room. A commemorative plaque was subsequently presented to mark the occasion permanently.
The ceremony concluded with a group photo, bringing together SCASPA staff, the Tross family, and invited guests in a final moment of collective tribute.
The renaming reflects a growing practice at SCASPA of recognising individuals whose contributions — whether in service, character, or community — leave a lasting mark on the institution. For the Tross family, the gesture transforms a public space into a living memorial, one that will greet every traveller, trader, and port worker who passes through Facility Shed 2.
The ceremony was compact by design — just over an hour — but its significance extended well beyond the morning.