Articles

Great step in the right DIRECTION.....

But, still a very long way to go to convince myself and all conscious St. Martiners !

How ?

Bestow REAL honor on these great heroes and all the others, who are now DEAD by SECURING and PRESERVING their NOW living descendants, which are the CURRENT native-indigenous St. Martiners as well as their rights to be FIRST in their own country.

This should not be only rhetoric, but it should be ANCHORED in the constitution of 'Country St. Maarten'.

That would be far more meaningful than 'honoring' the dead, while betraying their LIVING descendants.

Just like Government officials show pride in fighting for the 'human rights' of (illegal)immigrants, there is absolutely NO excuse, why they can not defend and preserve the rights of the people of the land to be first-citizens in their own home-land.

If there will a 'country St. Maarten' in NAME only, but in reality some 'many culture society'...then change the name to 'Country MANYCULTURE' .

Remember, one can fool some of the people some of the time, but not all the people all of the time.

Let us get for real, 'Country St. Maarten'

 

Have great day,

Leopold JAMES,

Native-indigenous St. Martiners with pride, minus any apologies!

 

 

Dear Commissioner Hyacinth RICHARDSON,

Celebration SXM-Day 09...big step in the right direction

On behalf of my board, it is our privilege to highly commend you, your staff and the organizing committee for the St. Maarten/St. Martin Day 2009 for taking the celebration of this day to a 'new level'.

One of recognizing our ancestors, our people, our cultural-identity, heritage etc.on this day, specifically initiated 50 years ago to celebrate and commemorate our indivisible oneness as native St. Martin people.

It must be said, that since a very, very long time, we as St. Martiners felt that this historical day was really about us as a people and therefore worth celebrating.

It certainly gave us a feeling of finally being recognized in our own home-land and we are very pleased with that.

However, we do hope that during the celebration next year, the recognition of we the native St. Martiners, our history, our heritage as well as our rights to be preserved as such, will be presented to the people as part of the constitution of both sides of the island.

We will not only very keenly monitor the development towards such a 'next level', but we remain available to the Island-government of St. Maarten and the Collectivite of Saint Martin in partnership to contribute towards such.

While it is a great step forward for our government to have the courage and the decency to finally recognize we the native people of the island, without these nice words also being 'grounded' in legislation and in the constitution as well, they might just turn out to be lip-service, something that should be avoided at this time, because we St. Martiners are feeling replaced through genocide by substitution on a daily basis.

In ending, Mr. Commissioner, once more our sincerest compliments as well as my thanks for recognizing the work I have been doing towards the development of our island.

--

Leopold James

President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

------

 

 

Dear Editor.

I grew up very close to my uncle, the late Dr. Claude Wathey and his children, I campaigned for the Democratic Party more than anyone else through the Roots Foundation, and I got enemies because of the Democratic Party when his own children didn’t want anything to do with “The Old Man”, Claude, having anything to do with politics.

“The Old Man” and Al always accepted me as being part of the family, as well my father, the late Norman Chester Wathey. I know Theo from the day he was born, so that makes me the 1st offspring to have anything to do with the Democratic Party of St. Maarten, all others are “Johnny’s come lately”.

Today, my father’s-, Claude’s children and Theo threat me as if I do not exist, they have gotten so ignorant and greedy that as much as they know, that same greed is threatening their very own existence and the to be established “Green Machine”.

Al, Norman and Brenda can be found in the local new papers some time back presenting a check for US $. 20,000.00 to a local university, nothing against that, whether a political stunt for Theo’s future political career or not, as rather absorbitant. This does not include other donations made by Wathey companies as well as individual Watheys.

I am sitting here wondering if these persons making these contributions do realize that I, as my father’s 1st offspring, that they can get away with their deeds while excluding me from any decisions whatsoever, knowing that from day one I am also a Wathey and that these donations also require my approval before giving away money that constitutes part of my inheritance.

Today, instead of giving me my share of the estate which is rightfully mine, they persistently continue to contest my share with all kinds of poor excuses and are constantly trying to destroy me.

Let Theo and them come with a political party and I promise them that DP and NA will have a “field day” with them, simply for the fact that they (T-O and the Watheys) shut out their own blood from what is his, then they will continue to shut out you the voters from what is also rightfully yours in favor of GREED as they have been doing over the past, everything is for T-O and the Watheys, solely. As it looks to me it will be a GREED machine instead of a GREEN machine.

I wonder if anyone else who may have found themselves in my position would have thought about this the way I do.

I wonder if they would have felt about themselves the same way I feel about myself.

I also wonder if I could be wrong about thinking the way I think about myself, should I be wrong about this.

The people seem to be on my side, however.

I leave the rest for the voter to figure out for themselves come election day!

Norman C. Wathey II

 

 

Recent indicators suggest that the global economy has passed its depression and some forecasts for 2010 are now being upwardly revised. The World Travel & Tourism Council reports that there are good reasons for caution and a second dip into recession early in 2010 cannot yet be ruled out.

Nevertheless, according to the latest travel horizons survey, the nationally representative survey that is co-authored quarterly by Ypartnership and the U.S. Travel Association, reveals that almost two-thirds (63 percent) of American adults expect to take at least one trip for leisure purposes between August 2009 and January 2010.

This is up from 61 per cent who expressed the same intention in July 2008. Assuming that Americans will act on their stated intention, this will entail an estimated 142 million U.S. adults taking at least one overnight trip during the next couple of months.

According to U.S. Travel Association President Roger Dow, Americans continued strong interest in travel and positive perceptions of its affordability are positive signs for the industry.

Approximately 2,362 persons were queried between July 21-28, 2009 about their average number of overnight trips they intend to take and this came out to 2.8, an increase from 2.6 in July 2008.

In the meantime, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) expects moderate growth for 2010. The initial forecast for 2010 indicates that international tourist arrivals are likely to see moderate recovery next year, with growth at +1 per cent to +3 per cent.

This outlook reflects the gradual improvement of international tourism figures in recent months, as well as the better-than-expected economic indicators in some major source markets.

We must continue to prepare ourselves for the upcoming tourist season. Americans vacationing abroad are looking for value for their money. Many destinations in the Caribbean and around the world will be in search of that visitor.

If we don’t keep ahead of the pack, we will be left behind.

 

Roddy Heyliger

 

 

 

The St. Maarten Lions Club entertained over one hundred and forty elderly persons from both sides of the island last Saturday at Boo Boo Jam, for its annual Nelson vd Linde Senior Citizen’s Party.

The day was organized by a committee headed by Zone Chairman Lion Chantal Schaminee, started with a traditional island breakfast, followed by live entertainment by local favorites Tanny and the Boys. Many seniors recited poems, sang songs, told old stories and took part in a mini fashion show much to the delight of the persons in the audience.

The highlight of the day was the Surinamese lunch and dessert, along with performances by Jan Beaujon, Carlton Velasquez, Fish The Mega Boss, Helen Hart and Fats James. It all ended with a big dance party whereby the seniors danced to calypso and meringue music with the members of the Lions and Leos clubs.

The Nelson vd Linde Annual Senior Citizen’s Party is an event which was started back in 1997 as an idea by the late Lion Nelson, who the party is named after and is usually held during the month of October as part of the yearly activities of the

St. Maarten Lions Club.

 

 

 

GREAT BAY– The Fire Departments of St. Maarten and the Municipality of Dordrecht in The Netherlands, signed a cooperation covenant on Wednesday.

Both departments have identified a number of areas that they will work closely together in further developing to the benefit of both services.

The covenant was signed by Governor Franklyn Richards on behalf of St. Maarten and Dordrecht Mayor R.J.G. Bandell.

Some of the areas identified are the exchange of ideas and views, disaster prevention, management, and personnel affairs etc.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- The Editor of the Today Newspaper A.H is now in police custody and is scheduled to appear before the judge of instruction on Monday afternoon. SMN News learnt that A. H. was arrested over the weekend after his girlfriend filed a complaint with the police. Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of A.H whom he said would appear in court sometime during the afternoon on Monday. Mud said the suspect has been charged with theft. No other details on the case have been released.

It is further understood that A.H had a domestic dispute with his girlfriend and her brother last week. The newspaper editor published a story in the newspaper he worked for outlining details of the dispute, which he said, occurred during his son’s baptism.

 

 

 

Philipsburg: ---The Democratic Party received word on Tuesday that the Central Committee meeting, scheduled for November 26, 2009 to handle the draft budget of the island territory has been canceled until further notice.

The government provided no further elucidation on the reason for this cancelation, but obviously, the draft 2010 budget was rushed to the Central Committee of the Island Council to meet the deadline, without any consideration for the consequences of several decisions taken to “balance” the budget.

Also obvious is the fact that the NA part of the coalition sought to push through this budget without consultation with the Heyliger part of the coalition.

To reduce the budget for garbage collection; pull a number out of the sky for work permit fees; introduce a condominium fee during these hard economic times and several other such inconsiderate actions is clearly a desperate attempt to present a “balanced” budget and at the same time establish clearly, who is in control of the island government.

It is not too long ago that the Commissioner of Finance announced that the budget could not be balanced and that he was going to seek permission of the CFT to present a budget with a deficit.

How was the Commissioner then suddenly able to balance the budget? With a magic wand?

We expect that this budget will be “creatively’ amended to keep the NA/Heyliger government intact with more of the same tactics. The public commitments that the leader of Government makes without any consideration for the budgetary consequences and without any consideration for due administrative procedures will have to be honored.

Commissioner Heyliger will get his garbage collection budget and the people of Sint Maarten will be lead to believe, it was all just an oversight. Yes, right, an oversight after all the consultation with the CFT and with the civil service.

What will the explanation of the Government be? This one for sure they cannot pin on the previous administration like they do everything else.

So what will the “kiss and make-up” cost the taxpayer?

In addition, on whose program is this budget based by the way, since the people of Sint Maarten are yet to see the first page of the NA/Heyliger governing program.

 

 

A shooting took place at club orient today. Many Gendarmes are on the scene investigating. The victim was taken to the hospital.

More information will be given in subsequent report.

Marigot: --- Reliable information reaching SMN News states that the Haitian national who attacked a Police Aux Frontiers Officer (PAF) has surrendered to the gendarmes sometime last week. The source said the man was hiding out somewhere in Cape Bay on the Dutch side and police on that side of the island was moving in on him since the gendarmes provided them with a photograph of the suspect. SMN News also understands that the suspect was transferred to Guadeloupe and appeared before the courts to answer to the charges that were filed against him. SMN News further understands that the suspect is in his early 20’s.

So far, the gendarmes neither the Police Aux Frontiers did not release any information on the case. The Haitian national it is said threw a stone at the PAF officer who ran after him during an immigration control at a work site. The suspect it is said was working illegally on the French side of the island. More information on this case will be released in a subsequent broadcast.

 

 

GREAT BAY:---- On St. Maarten’s Day, at 1pm in the Great Bay harbor, there will be a traditional boat race with the “B Class” boats. These boats, which measure twenty-three feet in size and carry a crew of 8, are from both St. Maarten and Anguilla.

Boats will depart at 1 pm from Great Bay Harbor, sail towards a marker in the Simpson Bay Beach area and return to Great Bay Harbor.

Some of the boats participating from St. Martin are: Perfect Timing, Sandfly, Damage and Trouble.

Anguilla will be sending several boats over to compete against the St. Maarten, especially the boat called Perfect Timing, who won the Anguillian competition “Champ of Champs.”

The significance of the boat racing is that it started out when fisherman began setting their fish traps, would race to see who would be the first to get back into shore to sell the fish. On weekends they would also have races amongst each other as well.

In the past, the major sport was boat racing and was always organized with each festivity.

Somewhere in the 20th century, possible, early 1900, there were races in Marigot, Simpsonbay, Philipsburg, and currently Grand Case.

There will be cash prizes and trophies.

The sponsor of this event is The Windward Islands Bank, Ltd.

 

 

Through the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO) in Mexico, NAOC gets the opportunity to select coaches together with our member sport federations, to participate in international courses.

These sport technical courses are of a high international level, and consist out of about 56 hours of education. There are 42 participating countries of the Pan American Region.

Mrs. Mildred Clara is selected to participate in the international Synchronized Swimming course, which is taking place in Colorado Springs, USA (3-9 November).

It is the intention of NAOC to upgrade the respective sport with this. The costs of the course are being covered by Olympic Solidarity.

 

 

GREAT BAY– The Preventive Health Department (PHD) has received 8000 H1N1 vaccines from Holland and the first persons to receive the pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine will be high risk groups.

Vaccinations for these persons are available as of Monday, November 23.

Persons who fall under the identified risk groups are asked to visit their family physicians at the following clinics as of Monday, November 23 to Friday, November 27: Dr. Mercuur Clinic (12.00pm to 1.00pm), Bush Road Clinic (12.00pm to 2.00pm) and Dr. Deketh Clinic (2.00pm to 3.00pm). These persons are those who fall under the high risk group and who are clients of the aforementioned clinics. Other family physicians will be added to the list and this information will be announced once it has been compiled.

The Dutch Health Council and the Royal Institute for Public Health & the Environment has recommended that persons receive two A (H1N1) vaccinations. Approximately 4000 persons can be vaccinated with this first batch that has been received.

According to guidelines from the Netherlands Antilles Influenza A (H1N1) Protocol, all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be vaccinated.

Other persons who form part of the risk group that should get vaccinated are:

• Persons with chronic conditions e.g. with pulmonary disease; with cardiac disease; with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication; with chronic kidney disease/failure; after a recent bone marrow transplant; with HIV-infection.

• Persons with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;

• 60 years and older.

Health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups mentioned above (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices) should also get vaccinated.

Home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to pandemic influenza A (H1N1) should also be vaccinated.

Side effects of the vaccination are slight fever and some slight swelling around the area where the vaccine is administered. If there are any adverse affects, inform your family physician immediately or the PHD.

Besides vaccination against pandemic in¬flu¬en¬za A (H1N1), vaccination against seasonal flu remains important.

For persons who do not fall within the identified risk groups, you are advised to continue with implementing preventive measures (maintain high standards of hygiene), staying healthy and keeping a safe distance from persons with a flu-like illness.

 

 

Philipsburg:---The Police traffic Department reported that between Thursday October 29th and November 1st 2009 to have handled 10 traffic accidents, 5 of which persons were injured and four of which were "hit and run" accidents. All accidents are under investigation.

On Sunday morning November 1 at approximately 10.20 a.m. a female driver lost control of her vehicle on the Union Road in Cole bay hitting an unknown vehicle that was driving in front of her and then colliding with several walls and concrete structures on the side of the road.

As a result, of this accident one car that was parked on the side of the street was damaged by flying debris. The driver of the car after being checked at the hospital had suffered a fractured left leg. The traffic department is busy investigating this accident.

The Police Traffic Department is informing the owners of the following license plates which were lost or missing for the tax year 2009, P-7585, P-3452, M-3357, M-5022 and M-9096 can come to the Philipsburg Police Station (Traffic Department.) and collect these plates.

 

 

 

GREAT BAY:---- The St. Maarten’s Day Island Government Domino Tournament will be held at the Festival Village at 1pm sharp and end at 6:30pm.

Teams taking part in this tournament will be placed in three different pools: 1) Pool A will consist of the Local Domino Teams, 2) Pool B, a Business Class, and 3) Pool C the Law Enforcement Class.

5 in Pool A - Public Works, Country Boys, Presidente, Gebe and Sit-up.

5 in Pool B - UTS, Telem, WIB, Post Office and PJIA.

5 in Pool C - Vks, HvB, KPSSS, Brandweer, and Douane/Kustwacht.

Teams must consist of six players or more. There will be a total of 15 teams taking part in this tournament.

Teams interested in registering for this tournament can contact Martin Wilson at 580-4463 anytime of the day.

Dead line for registration to take part in this tournament is November 6, 2009.

 

Rules of the game is time limit: first set, two best of three; and the final game three

best of five.

 

 

 

 

Philipsburg:--The commissioner responsible for sports, Frans Richardson, on Thursday afternoon hosted St. Maarten born major league baseball rookie Dudley Leonora Jr.

The 17-year-old Leonora who signed with the Baltimore Orioles last year, was accompanied by his proud father, Dudley Leonora Sr., at which time the commissioner was briefed regarding Leonora's upcoming spring training in the U.S., his future plans as well as his role as a utility player.

Commissioner Richardson was full of praise for the young professional baseball player, who he hailed as as example for "young people on St. Maarten" and a prospective "ambassador for St. Maarten", by virtue of his present and expected achievements in baseball.

He emphasized on Leonora, the need to remain focused and not to be led astray by the temptations that come with the live of a baseball major league player. He implored on the Baltimore Orioles player "not to forget where you come from" and to make St. Maarten proud.

Commissioner Richardson assured Leonora and his father of his continued support and commitment towards the young player's career in the major leagues.

 

 

COLE BAY—GEBE representatives attended the SHTA General Managers’ Retreat on Friday, November 13 to update Hotel Managers on the challenges that are being faced in the GEBE operations on St. Maarten, Saba and Statia as well as projects and strategic plans that address these challenges on the short, medium and long term.

GEBE Managing Director, William Brooks, was originally scheduled to give the presentation but was out due to illness. In his absence, Steve Duzanson, Commercial Manager, and Giselle Dirckx-Williams, Corporate Communications Officer, outlined the current and future challenges in the company as well as the solutions being worked on in the power supply, to upgrade customer service and to create clarity on the fuel clause.

GEBE has been facing electricity production challenges with a tight operating capacity that has led to numerous outages from July 2009 to date. “The shortage in the generation capacity was identified in early 2007, which resulted in two 11.3 MW generators being ordered by Brooks” he explained. The installation of the new generators is 5 months ahead of schedule and is more than 90% completed. The new engines are projected to be commissioned and brought online in the end of December 2009. The new generators are radiator cooled which will make them more reliable especially during rough seas and hurricanes since they will no longer depend on sea water for cooling.

Although the two new generators will stabilize the production capacity on the medium term, GEBE still faces the ongoing challenge of keeping the electricity supply ahead of the demand on the island, especially with the construction boom and a large number of projects still in the pipeline. A third generator could therefore be ordered for as early as 2011 and retiring and replacing of older engines, some as old as 40 years, that are smaller and less efficient, is also being planned.

The high cost of electricity as a result of the volatile oil price was also discussed. A tariff study that will realign the cost of electricity and fuel was completed and presented to stakeholders. The proposed tariff structure would update the base rate which has not changed since the electricity concession was given in 1960, and make the fuel clause a pass through as is the case with many electricity companies around the world. However, the realignment would only marginally decrease the cost of electricity.

Attendees were therefore cautioned that as long as the island continued to use oil to generate power, the cost for electricity would be volatile until energy production was diversified with such projects as solid waste to energy and renewable energies such as solar, geothermal and wind energies. Any new investments in alternative energy will be evaluated on environmental benefits as well as economic impacts.

GEBE launched its online services in 2007 with E-Billing and has been expanding its E-services to include the new GEBE website which was launched in March 2009 www.nvgebe.com, E-receipts and e-mail notices and continued its efforts to improve the customer experience. “Going into 2010, GEBE will add SMS-services to reach clients even quicker with outage information and power updates” she added.

The information was well received by the hotel managers. They also indicated that they were very happy GEBE‘s presence at the Retreat and more public awareness is needed on the production capacity and what is being done by the company to upgrade the power plant. Suggestions made by the group to GEBE included improving the outage information, to creating more clarity on the fuel clause as well as updating the GEBE website to make the information provided during the presentation readily available to the rest of the public.

 

 

Airport Road:----Regional airline, Windward Islands Airline Winair has announced that it would be terminating the route St. Maarten to Anguilla with effect from December 1, 2009. According to Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper, this is as a result of the airline suffering significant loses for the past several months which he said have resulted in the airline being unable to continue suffering loses.

Buncamper pointed out that all passengers are being contacted to inform them of the suspension of flights to Anguilla. He said that all passengers that booked directly with Winair will have the option to travel on the services of Anguilla Air Service (Winair partner Airline) using the same ticket. The VP of Marketing further explained that passengers booked using one of our interline partners, will have to refund their tickets via their travel agency or partner airline the ticket was purchased from and book directly with Anguilla Air Services

Giving an explanation for the airline’s decision to close the Anguilla route, Buncamper said that the cancelation is the poor performance and loss making of the route. “We have tried desperately over the past several months to keep the Anguilla route operational owing to the fact that we have recognized that over the years the resident and citizens of Anguilla have supported Winair,” Buncamper said.

He however noted that with the airline already faced with a number of challenges among them a decreased travelling market, rising operational and other costs it has placed the airline in a very challenging position to make such a critical decision. “We are always committed to delivering the best quality service possible and therefore we are unable to continue delivering the level of service that we recognize is needed for Anguilla owing to the significant challenges and difficulties that the airline is faced with.

As such, the management team have thought long and hard and after significant evaluation and consultation it have decided to end the route to Anguilla. Buncamper stressed that passengers should note that adequate arrangements have already been implemented to ensure a smooth transition. Winair will however maintain its sales office in Anguilla which is handled by our partner airline Anguilla Air Services (AAS), passenger can buy their tickets by AAS to fly with AAS to St. Maarten and connect to any Winair flight.

He pointed out that most airlines today are faced with growing and rapidly increasing challenges thus resulting in management being forced to take measures on lost making routes. “We, the management team have looked extensively at our other markets, WM already took measures in the beginning of the year on several routes and we held on to AXA but unfortunately things did not improve, as such, we recognize that we needed to take action now or failure to do so may result in the company incurring further financial loss,” Buncamper declared.

Meanwhile, Managing Director of Winair, Edwin Hodge in commenting on the situation has expressed his personal disappointment noting that whenever the company has to make such decisions it will always be one that painful to everyone. “We within Winair have had a great and family related relationship with the residents and citizens of our various routes and knowing that we would no longer be flying there is indeed one of disappointment,” he said.

He noted that with the company already suffering significant financial ;looses with the route that has not been making a profit for several months it was evident that such a decision be made if the airline is to remain operational and competitive. Ï am confident that sometime in the future Wiuair will return to Anguilla as Winair and the people of Anguilla have always had a very good relationship,” he stressed. Currently Winair operates in nine other routes.

 

 

Philipsburg: ---The National Alliance Council in District Six will be walking the neighborhoods of St. Peters, Weymouth Hill, Ebenezer, and South Reward this week to invite community members to a “meet and greet” on Friday, November 6, 7:30 pm at Helena’s Home on Carrot Road #24, South Reward.

The purpose of the meeting is to listen to the concerns of the community, hear from our elected representatives and to share information about the upcoming National Alliance Congress.

Together, the district will submit a list of delegates for the November Congress and nominate names for the party organization and honorary awards. The National Alliance has met a lot of new and interesting people in its last eight district meetings as it continues to share its message of inclusion and unity, and build momentum for the NA Congress on the 15th of November at the Dutch Quarter Community Center under the theme, “Together, Moving Forward.” The National Alliance remains committed and dedicated to empowering our community through education, health-care, job training, housing, tax relief, and business development.

 

 

GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Thursday, November 5, the Director, a.i., of the Directorate of Programs and Projects Udo Aron made a presentation about the directorate to participants in the 10th European Development Funding (EDF) workshop.

Aron explained about the sector’s mission and tasks, portfolios, programming process, cooperative programs, and the execution of programs.

He explained that the aim is “to develop and execute the strategic policy for the Government of St. Maarten, having the core responsibilities of guaranting adequate program and project management, securing quaity funding for executing programs and projects, and preparing multi annual development plans.”

Aron further explained that “by means of cooperation with the sectors and a maximum cohesion between the programs to effectively utilize the available funds to achieve a balanced support to the activities of the government.”

“Activities should encourage enhancement of knowledge and expertise in all levels of the government.”

“Furthermore the existing cooperation agreements with the Netherlands will be reviewed in light of the the desire of the government to attain ‘increased autonomy o development aid policy.’”

The directorate’s portoflios, Aron said, consist of “Institutional strengthening & reinforcement of government; Social Economic Initiative; Harbor buy back, Education and Youth; Government projects, Safety Plan Netherlands Antilles; Constitutional development program, and Projectbureau Justice.”

The steps in the process are “defining the program lines, project indentification, drafting of a concept program, approval process, and signing of the program. After which there is the monitoring and evaluation of said program.”

After the presentation, Aron answered some questions about his department.

On Friday, November 6, the workshop concludes.

 

 

 

GREAT BAY, (GIS) – During the working visit to the Netherlands this past week, the St. Maarten delegation visited the Koninklijke Marechaussees at the Koningin Beatrix Kazerne in The Hague.

Discussions took place with Lt. General van Putten regarding support to the immigration department at the ports of entry by the Marechaussees on St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius.

 

 

Philipsburg:--DP Councilwoman Maria Buncamper-Molanus expresses her gratitude to the Public Health Department for informing the public of the developments regarding the availability of the H1N1 vaccine. While from newspaper articles it is clear that the vaccine is not yet available, it is at least good news that, a few days after the DP faction in the Island Council sent questions to the Executive Council about this issue, information is provided to the public regarding preparations which are being made for the arrival of the vaccines and that a protocol is being prepared according to which the vaccine will be administered to people in our community.

The hope is that the Government of Dutch St. Maarten is collaborating with French St. Maarten as much as possible to ensure the most efficient and effective use of the vaccine. Many persons living on one side of the island attend school on the other side, likewise when it comes to employment. “These are just some the practical aspects that should be kept into consideration”; says former Commissioner of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus.

The press release from the Government on the H1N1 vaccine also emphasizes the importance of members of the Island Council asking questions. And so if there were any doubts about the role Island Council members, in opposition in particular, play when it comes to the governance of this island, this should herewith be clarified.

In Chapter I “The Island Council”, Part V, article 24 of the Island Regulation regulates the responsibilities of the Island Council. Sub. 1. Of this article states that the Island Council is responsible for handling all matters related to the island territory, which are not regulated in one or more other laws, or which are the responsibility of the Lt. Governor or the Executive Council . Sub 2 refers to the responsibility of making island ordinances related to the responsibilities of the Island Council. And finally the right to make inquiries is regulated in article 42 sub 1. of the Rules Of Order established by the Island Council.

One could conclude that says Councilwoman Buncamper-Molanus that the environment exists for proper democratic governance. The application of those in the relevant positions of responsibility determines how effective it is and the contribution it makes to run the peoples affairs.

 

 

CAY BAY— A number of generators over the weekend experienced various mechanical problems causing short outages in various districts. As explained before, the generators are working to full capacity especially during the work week in order to meet demand and should one machine develop mechanical problems, outages and load shedding would be necessary and the public should continue to bear this in mind.

Once the two new 11.3 megawatt generators come online next month, the current outages being experienced will be a thing of the past as GEBE will have sufficient generating capacity to carry the load being generated by the community. Should one generator fall out, consumers will not experience any outage and the same can be said when required maintenance takes place.

Weekend outages in most cases lasted for less than an hour. GEBE technicians have been working around the clock to stabilize the generators that developed the problems. On Saturday morning DG#14 developed low water pressure which resulted in interruptions in service to customers from Low Lands to Oyster Pond.

Generator DG#17 tripped offline around 6.00pm on Saturday affecting Oyster Pond and the residential areas of St. Peters and South Reward.

On Sunday morning several areas including Belvedere, St. Peters, Saunders, Oyster Pond, Madame Estate and Guana Bay were without electricity service several times due to generators DG#15 and DG#17 going offline.

On Sunday and into the evening hours, GEBE technicians are working on DG#16 in order to ensure that there won’t be any interruptions when the load increases Monday morning due to the start of the work week when the demand for electricity increases.

GEBE continues to operate on a very tight electricity production schedule due to the high demand of electricity from customers especially during the work week.

GEBE apologizes for the inconvenience caused.

 

 

Philipsburg: ---Senior Citizens of St. Maarten were treated to the annual Lagoon cruise organized by the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. November 7th marked the 21st time The St. Maarten Rotary Club hosted a “full house” of St. Maarten seniors on the Explorer. Entertainment was provided by Tanny and the Boys while Rotarians and Interactors (Youth wing - ages 14-18) ensured that lunch, drinks, dance, conversation, etc., where provided to guarantee the seniors a memorable day out. With the cooperation of the weather and the assistance of caregivers, family and friends all efforts culminated to another well deserved day of celebrating life for those so precious to us all.

Community service director Robert Keough assisted by Mary Every were instrumental in coordinating this year’s event and ensuring that all Rotarians got “on board” to making this “Rotary signature event” a success for the 21st time.

 

 

Philipsburg – The Youth Link Foundation recently announced its stance on the issue of education and the construction of the new public school in Belvedere.

It is commendable to see how the current administration is continuing to carry out projects initiated by the previous Government,” Stuart Johnson President of the Youth Link Foundation (YLF) said.

“But Government must also equip the new school with teachers who are trained in Foundation Based Education (F.B.E.) and ensure that the necessary materials reach all classrooms,” Johnson said. “Today we have schools whereby teachers feel neglected and unappreciated along with the lack of adequate materials being found in the classrooms. These problems do not fall blame to one individual but it’s a collective responsibility of many who have the task of implementing the correct education policies,” Johnson said.

He alluded to the fact that many of the issues in education stemmed from the issue of those in authority making decisions using a “top-down approach” instead of vice versa.

“If the suggestions and feedback of teachers were considered before certain critical changes took place, we would have a better system in place today. Teachers carry the responsibility of educating our children, and have the hands on daily experience of working with our children.”

Johnson added, “I firmly believe the time has come for us to stop blaming and ignoring what is going on within the education field. Education is a nonpartisan issue, and should be treated as such. All hands are needed and I am personally willing to be part of any committee to bring about a positive education reform.”

The Youth Link Foundation would also like to see that the Government name, the soon to be constructed public school in Belvedere, after the late Vance James Jr. Johnson said, “He was a son of the soil, a former member of the Executive and Island Councils of St. Maarten, and most importantly an educator. His valuable contributions, throughout the years, to the development of our beloved St. Maarten should not go unnoticed.” Johnson concluded, “Let us continue to salute our heroes and continue to build this island into the greatest country in the world.”

 

 

Persons who fall under the risk groups are: pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be vaccinated; persons with chronic conditions e.g. with pulmonary disease; with cardiac disease; after a recent bone marrow transplant; with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication; with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication; with chronic kidney disease/failure; with HIV-infection; persons 60 years and older; health care workers and health care workers (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices); and home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality.

Clinics administering the H1N1 Vaccine for their patients in the identified risk groups are:

Monday, November 23 to Friday, November 27

- Dr. Mercuur Clinic (12.00pm to 1.00pm)

- Bush Road Clinic (12.00pm to 2.00pm)

- Dr. Deketh Clinic (2.00pm to 3.00pm)

- Simpson Bay Medical Clinic, Dr. Tjaden & Datema Clinic (Wednesday & Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

 

Other family physicians will be added to the list and this information will be announced once it has been compiled.

For further information, contact Preventative Health Dept. at 542-3003 or 542-3553.

 

 

GREAT BAY,– The family physician clinics of Dr. Ruth Douglas, Union Road Clinic of Dr. Van Osch, and Simpson Bay Medical Clinic of Dr. Tjaden and Dr. Datema, have now been added to the lists of facilities that will administer the H1N1 vaccine.

The Preventive Health Department (PHD) has received 8000 H1N1 vaccines from Holland and the first persons to receive the pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine starting Monday, November 23 will be high risk groups.

Persons who fall under the identified risk groups are asked to visit their family physicians at the following clinics as of the specified days and times:

 

- Dr. Mercuur Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 1.00pm);

- Bush Road Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 2.00pm);

- Dr. Deketh Clinic (Monday to Friday, 2.00pm to 3.00pm)

- Dr. Ruth Douglas (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 7.30am to 9.30am)

- Union Road Clinic of Dr. Van Osch (Wednesday, Thursday 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

- Simpson Bay Medical Clinic of Dr. Tjaden and Dr. Datema (Wednesday and Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm).

 

These persons are those who fall under the high risk group and who are clients of the aforementioned clinics. Other family physicians will be added to the list and this information will be announced once it has been compiled.

The Dutch Health Council and the Royal Institute for Public Health & the Environment has recommended that persons receive two A (H1N1) vaccinations. Approximately 4000 persons can be vaccinated with this first batch that has been received.

According to guidelines from the Netherlands Antilles Influenza A (H1N1) Protocol, all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be vaccinated.

Other persons who form part of the risk group that should get vaccinated are:

• Persons with chronic conditions e.g. with pulmonary disease; with cardiac disease; with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication; with chronic kidney disease/failure; after a recent bone marrow transplant; with HIV-infection.

• Persons with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;

• 60 years and older.

Health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups mentioned above (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices) should also get vaccinated.

Home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to pandemic influenza A (H1N1) should also be vaccinated.

Side effects of the vaccination are slight fever and some slight swelling around the area where the vaccine is administered. If there are any adverse affects, inform your family physician immediately or the PHD.

Besides vaccination against pandemic in¬flu¬en¬za A (H1N1), vaccination against seasonal flu remains important.

For persons who do not fall within the identified risk groups, you are advised to continue with implementing preventive measures (maintain high standards of hygiene), staying healthy and keeping a safe distance from persons with a flu-like illness.

 

 

Philipsburg: ---On Friday October 30th, the Zero Tolerance Team assisted by members of the VKS and the Immigration Department conducted controls at several establishments on the island

In The Dutch Quarter, area snack bars were checked concerning their licenses to operate. In Sucker Garden, several snack bars and brothels were controlled regarding to their operating licenses and undocumented persons working at these businesses. Eight persons were brought in to the Immigration Department to be checked regarding, their status on the island. Two of these persons were later released after their documents were found to be in order. A fine of Nafls 30.000, - was given to the owner one of these businesses for having illegal persons employed.

 

 

 

GREAT BAY,– Commissioner of Education Leader of Government William Marlin on behalf of the Executive Council extends the Council’s deep gratitude and respect to the board, university administration, graduates and current students of the University of St. Martin (USM) on the educational institutions 20th anniversary to be celebrated on Saturday, November 7.

Commissioner Marlin who is currently in Holland on a working visit expressed the aforementioned on Thursday.

The educational institution was founded back in 1989 has grown over the years to having an enrolment of close to 400 full-time and part-time students.

“The mission of USM started back in 1989 was only made possible by the support of those who have passed through the doors of the university during the past 20-years and the brilliant faculty that have given them the knowledge to move on academically or into the workforce.

“The task of universities is to guide young people to the intellectual frontiers, to take them as far as they are capable of going. USM has fulfilled this role and will continue on this track for many more decades.

“The founders of this educational institution back in 1989, were making a statement about their confidence in the workers and young people of the island ensuring that they developed an educational institution to meet the aspirations of the community.

“The very nature of a successful university is its cultural breath, and it is important to maintain the balance between the arts, humanities, social sciences, technologies and sciences.

“A rich intellectual environment created by mixing the cultures attracts the most creative minds. Without a doubt, USM faculty, board and management will continue to work in unisom to further extend and enrich its programs for those who want to broaden their educational experience on the island.

“USM has brought opportunities to the doorsteps of those seeking a university education. USM is indeed the key to a brighter future and every student should make use of this opportunity right at home.

“I would like to take this opportunity once again to thank all those who have played a role in the development of USM and those who have been involved in the recent successes of the facility.

“Lets celebrate today’s students and staff who have made the University what it is today, and who are laying the foundations that will ensure its future. The founders of USM took a bold step back in the 1980s and their successors are just as bold today to carry on what has been built over the 20-year period,” Commissioner of Education William Marlin expressed on behalf of the Executive Council in a statement to the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.

 

 

GREAT BAY (GIS)—Department and Section Heads from the Sector Economy and Tourism were given a presentation by Section Head of Personnel and Organization Policy (POB) Luud Hakkens relating to the human resources policies.

The meeting was in order for managers and staff members to deal with situations in a more informed manner, and according to regulations.

Sector Director, Miguel de Weever, gave a short introduction about the meeting, saying that we have a new organization structure, salary system, and the implementation of performance management. Because of these changes, and for persons who are new to government, it is important for managers to know what tools are at their disposal in dealing with certain situations.

Present at the meeting were the Departments and Sections of Economy and Tourism, namely: the Departments of Economic Policy and Research, Tourism Bureau, and Department of Permits and Licenses, Public Vending and Economic Control (V.O.S.E.C.).

Hakkens gave a brief historical perspective of the policies, explained some of the regulations, and received questions from the audience.

 

 

 

GREAT BAY,– The Preventive Health Department along with representatives from the City of Amsterdam’s Public Health Service (GGD Amsterdam), will be introducing the “Jump In” program to a number of stakeholders this week.

The Dutch delegation comprising of Bertram Bouthoorn and Judith de Meij will sensitize and provide information to stakeholders about the Amsterdam Jump In program and its benefits.

Jump In is a program that has been designed to promote physical activity and prevent overweight among young children. The target group is four to 12-year-olds and their parents and has been used in Amsterdam since 2002.

The Executive Council approved the ‘School Nutrition & Physical Education Policy Plan,’ which has been developed to provide a structural and uniformed approach towards minimizing the factors that negatively influence a healthy lifestyle as it is related to nutrition and physical activity.

Overweight and obesity may soon cause a much preventable disease and death as cigarette smoking. It has been found that young persons need nutrition and physical education to help them develop lifelong eating patterns consistent with the basic dietary guidelines and the food pyramid. It has also been indicated that schools are ideal settings for nutrition and physical education.

The focus of the policy plan is on the youth, as results of data obtained indicate that the school going population of St. Maarten is at risk for health related consequences of being overweight. It has found that 16 per cent of those students screened of the past two school years are obese.

The presentations entail information sessions with school boards, principals, physical education teachers, government departments responsible for youth health care, educations & sports and several others.

The GGD Amsterdam representatives will also visit several public sports facilities, namely, L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium, Raoul Illidge Sports Complex, Little League Ball Park, and the Jose Lake Sr. and John Cooper Ball Park.

The development of the policy plan is a collaborative effort by the PHD, the Department of Education, the Department of Sports & Cultural Development along with the Department of Education Research Policy, Planning and Innovation (DERPPI).

The GGD Amsterdam visit is part of the agreement that was signed between the City of Amsterdam and the Island Territory of St. Maarten in 2007.

The objective of the agreement is to enhance bilateral cooperation in the exchange of know-how and experience in areas of mutual concern of both parties. One of the areas is public health which is Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour is making use of with respect to the visit by GGD Amsterdam.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- Elected officials from both French and Dutch side of St. Maarten/St. Martin at their official address at the Festival Village during the celebration of St. Martin Day focused on the status change the Dutch side is expected to have by October next year. Richards explained that St. Maarten is at the crossroad of change with their constitutional structure when the country status is granted to the Dutch side while the French side already has their status change and are progressing. He called on the people not to be dampened with the differences that exists but they should take time are reflect on what the nation has achieved over the past 50 years and the role their forefather’s have played. Richards said that right now focus must be placed on rebuilding the moral values on the island since it is plagued with several social issues such as crime and violence in the schools, unemployment. He said right now a collective effort is needed to address these issues and the history of cooperation between the two sides must be used. He said that already the two sides are working closely to fight against illegal immigration. Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards in his address said the two sides are already working closely on implementing the Franco/ Dutch treaty.

Senator Louis Constant Fleming in his address reminded the gathering on the reasons why the friendship of the island is celebrated. Fleming gave an outline on how the two sides evolved from 1648 when the treaty of Concordia. He said the two mother countries France and Holland never intervened on how the two sides worked together. The senator promised to work hard in making sure the cooperation between the two sides become stronger since St. Maarten/ St. Martin is one island and whatever decision is taken on side of the island would ultimately affect the other side.

The President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Frantz Gumbs in his address said the he felt the two sides were called upon to celebrate “Sweet St. Maarten” which some of its multitudes abused their welcome to the island because of their own negligence. Gumbs said that he felt there is need to rekindle the spirit of the treaty of Concordia, which in his opinion kept the island strong over the years. The President went on to quote article 3 of the treaty that stated that the two sides should live as friends and allies. He said that the 50 years ago the late Hubert Petit and the late Dr. Claude Wathey inaugurated St. Maarten/St. Maarten Day celebration to show the friendship between the two sides. Gumbs said the time has come for them to stop for a moment and ask themselves some serious questions such as what progress have they made over the past 50 years? What can they do and what is it they want to do to benefit the two sides? He said while there is no time for answers his questions are only food for thought and items for talks.

Gumbs said the economies have boomed and must continue to grow but he wants to know at what cost to the people and the environment. He said already infrastructures such as the education and social systems are struggling to adjust to meet the demands of the ever-growing population. He asked what solutions they have for the youths whom he said do not have a “tomorrow.” Gumbs said that indeed there is cooperation to address certain situations. He emphasized that it is his belief that cooperation should not be envisaged as an ideological past time instead; pragmatism should be the guide for the choices made by them. Gumbs said even though what he said may seem gloomy there is indeed hope for greater expectations.

While the leader of government William Marlin called on the people of St. Maarten to celebrate their day. He said there are people who tried to take away this day from them, but he urged them to celebrate their day.

Marlin said that right now the Dutch side of the island has 55,000 registered inhabitants with close to 20,000 undocumented however; this year’s celebration is to pay tribute to their forefathers. He called on the population not to only think about the politicians but they should also remember the church leaders, teachers, doctors, fishermen who were out there 50 years ago celebrating.

He said 50 years after the population, the environment have all changed. He reminded the gathering what Pastor Wycliffe Smith told them during the church service about the change in the landmarks. Marlin said St. Maarten would continue major changes referring to the country status which is expected to take place on October 10, 2010.

While Commissioner of Culture Hyacinth Richardson called on the people to maintain the island’s sweetness. One way this should happen is by continuing to planting the ‘sugar apple tree” which he said reflects the sweetness of the island.

Prior to the speeches that were delivered at the Festival Village a church service was held at the New Testament Baptist Church, while the wreath laying ceremony took place at the Bellevue monument which was erected by the late Constant Fleming.

 

 

Marigot: --- Two armed bandits robbed a grocery store in Grand Case and stole the day’s earnings. According to a press release from the gendarmes, the bandits entered the grocery during the afternoon hours. They first ordered some beverages and when the cashier opened the cash register, the bandits who were armed with a gun pointed it at the cashier and demanded the monies that were in the register.

CAY BAY— GEBE’s Executive Management Team (EMT) including the GEBE company managers from St. Eustatius and Saba, has forwarded a letter to the board members of the GEBE Shareholding Foundation outlining their concerns of recent developments between GEBE’s own Supervisory Board and GEBE Managing Director William Brooks.

The letter reads: “We, the members of the Executive Management Team (EMT) of NV GEBE, have been following the recent developments with regard to our Managing Director Mr. William Brooks with great concern. The public bashing by some of GEBE’s own Board members and the continuous “media leaks” by “sources close to the Board” attest to the serious degeneration of the professional relationship between the Board and the Managing Director. This is seriously hurting the company’s public image and morale of the workers.”

The EMT in its November 13, 2009 letter says that they do not deem it sagacious to suspend or dismiss the current Managing Director in the middle of the company’s transformation, a process they have described as clearly geared towards accomplishing the high levels of service that all stakeholders expect to receive.

The EMT members also express their full support and unwavering confidence in the current Managing Director’s ability to accomplish the objects as outlined in the GEBE Vision and GEBE Strategic Plan.

The letter also sent to the Executive Councils of St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius continued to state: “It is sad to see what the EMT had warned the GEBE Shareholding Foundation about has come to pass. With this we are referring to our previous correspondence dated June 25, 2008, in which we indicated that there would be problems with appointing the former director to the board.

“Since then we have seen a constant stream of negative press emanating from the board, politically motivated maneuvering around the fuel clause relief in 2008, a long drawn out process to approve the 2009 budget and so on. The general mood has been one of tension and inhibition of the new director; a situation not experienced by current management under the previous board. Moreover, it is a situation that does not have its equal at any other government owned company on the island.

“GEBE is currently in a crisis situation with capacity shortages and frequent mechanical breakdowns. The current Managing Director, upon assuming his position, quickly identified this short coming and took immediate action to secure the loan for the purchase of two new generators to alleviate the capacity shortage. Fortunately, the end of the crisis is in sight as we finalize the power plant expansion project and bring the two new 11.3 MW generators on line in just over a month from now.

“Our previous letter stated that the new direction by management will take longer than two years to bear fruit, taking the size and complexity of GEBE into consideration. The commissioning of the new engines and the subsequent solving of the frequent power outages by next month will be a major milestone in this process.”

Copies of the letter have also been sent to the GEBE Board of Supervisory Directors as well as Mr. Williams Brooks, and it continues as follows: “While we completely support and embrace the Board’s prerogative to recommend any disciplinary action it deems fit under the circumstances. Such disciplinary action must be derived from the careful review of objectively verifiable facts, data and analysis. The current Report reflects another attempt like previous ones within the last year to arrive at a decision before proper due diligence review of the facts are established. The Report appears to be hastily compiled to facilitate a rush to a conclusion which was already agreed on before the evidence was objectively put together, carefully analysed and contemporary best practice brought to bear.

“We are respectively bringing to your attention Sirs, that if the basis for suspending and/or dismissing the Managing Director is the current Report, it will expose GEBE to legal and moral hazard with irreparable damage to its corporate image with all of the associated legal, political and operational costs as this Report enters the public domain and is reviewed by impartial external third parties and the legal system.

“When the Managing Director responds to the Board letter it will be clear to the Shareholding Foundation that the reasons mentioned for the suspension are mainly frivolous and exaggerations. The managers do not want to see GEBE being placed at this risk and it is in this context that we write you.”

The GEBE EMT members who have signed the letter are: Commercial Manager Steve Duzanson, Finance Manager Andrew Zagers, Distribution Manager Emmanuel Brooks, Human Resources & General Affairs Manager Richard Hodge, Branch Manager St. Eustatius Fred Cuvalay, and Branch Manager Saba Charles Johnson.

Members of the GEBE Shareholding Foundation are: Ralph Richardson, Kelvin Bloyden, Richard Gibson Jr., Max Pandt and Hubert Smith.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- With flash flood warning in effect several areas on the Dutch side of the island were flooded. Drivers were seen braving floodwaters to get their destination. Several parents were also seen heading towards St. Peters to pick their children up. Some schoolyards were completely flooded but most schools kept their students indoors since authorities did not close school for the day. The Government Information Service on Tuesday issued a press release regarding the flood.

Severe rainfall watch is in effect for St. Maarten; Motorists advised to exercise extreme caution.

The Netherlands Antilles & Aruba Weather Service has issued a special bulletin as of 10.00 am until 12.00 pm related to a "severe rainfall watch" which is in effect for St. Maarten.　 An updated bulletin will be issued at 12.00 pm.

Motorists are hereby advised to exercise extreme caution while driving on the road network.　 Drivers who do need to be on the road during this period should remain at home until weather conditions improve.

Motorists should exercise extreme caution while driving in hilly areas and to be on the lookout for possible rock falls.

The Welgelegen road in Cay Hill remains closed to all vehicular traffic until further notice.

Personnel from the Public Works Department are out monitoring rainwater drainage channels while the all-necessary measures have been taken to prevent any flooding.

This entails putting into operation the Salt Pond Pump that would lower the level of the Salt Pond to make room for additional rainfall.　 The channel at the Great Bay Beach has been opened to allow water in the Fresh Water Pond to exit into the ocean.

Heavy showers are anticipated leading to local flooding over sections of the island.　 Residents are urged to avoid driving in low-lying areas and in flooded streets until the anticipated heavy rain has tapered off or ended and the anticipated floodwaters have subsided.

In case there are lightening strikes very close to your location, switch off and disconnect any sensitive electronic equipment.　 Also disconnect any phone line from your computer.

Residents are advised to continue to monitor radio broadcast for any additional information that may be issued and for weather reports issued by the Netherlands Antilles & Aruba Weather Service.

 

 

The topic ‘Fiscal Legislation within the Kingdom’ was the central point in a seminar organized by the Dutch Ministry of Finance in the Renaissance Hotel in Aruba on November 19th and 20th. The purpose of the meeting was to share best practices, and to strengthen each other's positions and mutual ties in fiscal matters within the Kingdom as much as possible. The Netherlands Antilles, Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire were represented by administrators, official experts from the tax authorities and economic affairs, and experts of the Central Banks.

After the opening of the seminar by the new Aruban Minister of Finance, Mike de Meza, the almost 50 participants from the Antilles, Aruba, Curacao, Saint Martin, Aruba, Bonaire, and the Netherlands exchanged the developments in the field of fiscal legislation and informed each other about intents in that fiscal legislation.

From Dutch side an explanation was given of the BES Tax, and Customs & Excise Bill, which was recently introduced into Parliament by the State secretary Jan Kees de Jager. The representatives of the Antilles, Aruba and the three islands territories have stated their experiences with the fiscal legislation and set forth plans.

All of the participants have experienced the meeting as very useful and enjoyable. The engagement was also made to keep informing and if necessary, to support one another on a regular basis.

 

 

GREAT BAY– Leader of Government and Commissioner responsible for Constitutional Affairs William Marlin, says the involvement of the community in the national development of the island starts from the bottom up.

This statement he made to the Government Information Service (GIS) when commenting on the seminar with the theme, “Tripartite Consultation in Social-Economic Policy-Making,” that will take place on Wednesday, November 25 in the UTS Training Center from 9.00am to 12.00pm.

The seminar is the first step in the preparation towards a strong and realistic Social Economic Council (SER) for country St. Maarten.

One of the advisory institutions of Government that has to be in place on October 10, 2010 is the SER.

The National Alliance-Heyliger Government believes that policy-making should take place with the involvement of the community.

This involvement of the community should take place through consultation with a formal and institutionalized SER. The SER needs to have a constellation with representation of both business and labour.

“By having a strong SER for country St. Maarten, one that is functioning properly, the government will ensure participation of a great part of our community in the policy-making of this new country.

“The government really believes that the approach this time needs to be a practical one. We have a Social Economic Council on island level and for many reasons it hasn’t been functioning,” Commissioner William Marlin stated on Tuesday.

 

 

 

Philipsburg:--- The Democratic Party has submitted a letter to the chairman of the executive council requesting answers on the Ministerial plans and the changes in the island ordinance of St. Maarten.

Below is the full content of the letter:--

As a result of the Central Committee meetings of October 16 and November 12, 2009 respectively and making use of our right as island council members in accordance with the Rules of Order of the Island Council and the Islands Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles, I hereby submit, on behalf of the Democratic Party faction, the following questions to the Executive Council in connection with the Ministerial Plans and the Island Ordinance containing changes to the Organization Ordinance Sint Maarten 2008.

 

• What are the budgetary implications of the total personnel cost for the Government Organization of Country Sint Maarten?

 

• What fate await those persons who currently hold the position of sector director?

 

• What is the present status of the recruitment of Secretaries General for country Sint Maarten, who is executing this project, what are the conditions for this position?

 

• What is government’s position on the inventory of tasks and responsibilities as a country and how does government view the execution of such and by whom?

 

• What has government’s reaction been to the draft federal ordinance on the transfer of central tasks and responsibilities? Can we be provided with a copy of this reaction?

 

• What further steps have been taken with respect to the agreement with Curacao regarding a joint central bank?

 

• Since the opening of the office of a St. Maarten MOT branch, what actions have been undertaken under the auspices of this office? How is this office manned? What are the activities of this office? How is the cost of operation of this office allocated?

 

• Kindly provide our faction with the personnel formation of the Ministry of TEZV&T, as this is not included in the Ministry Plan(s).

 

• Which budget is referred to when mention is made of “budgeted personnel cost” as part of the formation plans of the respective ministries?

 

• What is the status of the new draft study-ordinance? When can the island council expect to receive same?

 

• At what phase of the project plan is the NHIS momentarily?

 

• What are the direct and immediate consequences of the proposed changes for the organization? Who are affected by these consequences? How have these consequences for the affected individuals been mitigated?

 

Looking forward to receiving the answers to these questions before these proposals are forwarded to the island council for its deliberations.

 

 

Philipsburg:---Students of the advanced Youth leadership program recognized their instructors during the certificate presentation ceremony on Friday evening. The advanced Youth Leadership program, which was held for the past 8 weeks at the Living Praise ministry was facilitated by DTM Rolando Tobias and assisted by ACS Valerie Brazier.

13 students conducted a presentation of a Toastmasters meeting complete with speeches, Table topic impromptu session and evaluation session for their parents and invited guests before receiving certificates of completion from Toastmasters International and certificates of participation from the Ark Foundation who co-sponsored the session.

In a surprise show of appreciation the students presented the instructors with certificates of appreciation for the work they have been doing with them over the last two years. Last year, Valerie Brazier hosted the first session of the Youth Leadership program with the same group and due to popular demand Tobias this year hosted an advanced program focusing on effective speech writing and evaluations. The youngsters presented very interesting speeches on “Essential skills for communicating”, “Talking” and “Music’ and received positive feedback on their presentations from their peers. The possibility is being explored to continue the Youth Leadership program on another level next year.

 

 

Amidst the events surrounding breast cancer, Rotarian Michael Ferrier gave a presentation to the Rotary Club of St. Maarten on Prostate Cancer.

Ferrier a prostate cancer survivor since 2005 had documented the entire procedure.

Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed form of cancer in men and the third most deadly type. However it usually grows slowly while the survival rate when detected early is high. The prostate is a small gland located in front of the rectum and below the bladder. It makes a fluid that forms part of the semen. While in the early stages there are no symptoms as it develops the symptoms may include an urgency to urinate, difficulty urinating and pain in the pelvic region. Screening can be done by having a blood test done, which in Ferrier’s case is what led him to suspect that he had the decease. Signs of prostate cancer can also be detected with a digital Rectal Exam. If the results of these tests, suggests that there is a problem, then biopsies can be taken to determine to diagnose prostate cancer. The medical technology has advance tremendously with respect to detection and treatment that “Caribbean” man should be less reluctant to have themselves tested and treatment is not always necessary.

In conclusion, the speaker said: “most men die having some level of prostate cancer, but most men don’t have to die of it”.

 

 

Illidge Road: --- Several hundreds of undocumented persons rushed over to the immigration and naturalization department on AT. Illidge Road to capitalize on the opportunity granted to them to obtain legal documents.

Many of them turned away for the lack of proper or insufficient documentation that is required to obtain residency based on the Brooks Tower Accord. Numbers were being distributed to those that qualify prior to entering the department for processing.

Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has given those residing in the Netherlands Antilles illegally an opportunity to legalize themselves through the Brooks Tower Accord, which was signed in March 2007. Minister Jacoba said earlier this month that the immigration department would begin receiving applications from illegal immigrants from November 3 to December 15 2009 in accordance with the Brooks Tower Accord.

Several of the persons who began lining up at the Immigration and Naturalization services as early as 2 pm on Tuesday had to return home for the lack of proper and required documentation that would prove how long they are living on St. Maarten undocumented. Just about 9pm last night about 140 numbers were given out to those that had what is needed to submit their applications.

While the department did not open their doors exactly on time to receive the applications the department it is understood plans to stay open until midnight rather than closing off at 10pm as planned. The immigration and naturalization department would continue receiving applications everyday of this week at 4pm. Persons are advised to walk with all necessary documentation to avoid unnecessary delay.

SMN News learnt that the guards working at the scene managed to control the crowd, even though some of the people who braved the afternoon sun were becoming somewhat tensed.

There were persons mostly from the Caribbean region seeking to get legalized many of them went straight to the location after work to make sure they submit their documents.

Reporters managed to speak to immigrants who have been living on the island for over ten years, some of whom are working and their employers have refused to file for them.

 

 

Great Bay – St. Maarten’s commissioner in charge of sports affairs, Frans Richardson, strongly disagrees with the position taken by the Netherlands Antilles Minister for social development, Omayra Leeflang, regarding the hosting of the 2011 Kingdom Games in the Windward Islands.

Minister Leeflang has informed the Executive Council of St. Maarten that the choice has been made not to host the 2011 Kingdom Games on the island.

By correspondence of September 3, the minister was informed of St. Maarten’s interest to host the 2011 Kingdom Games. St. Maarten had been interested in submitting an integral proposal, along with Saba and St. Eustatius, for the hosting of the games.

According to Minister Leeflang, one important aspect of the Kingdom Games is the fostering of brotherhood. The minister has informed St. Maarten that the spreading of athletes, coaches and the general public over three different territories would not influence this brotherhood aspect in a positive manner.

The hosting of the 2011 Kingdom Games in the Windward Islands would additionally bring with it logistical and financial difficulties, said Minister Leeflang.

These arguments are however categorically dismissed by the commissioner of sports, who is of the opinion that arguments used for denying St. Maarten the opportunity to host the 2011 Kingdom Games are weak and unsubstantiated.

“Here again is another example why the entity known as the Netherlands Antilles has failed and reason for which people have opted to leave the Netherlands Antilles, to become a country with a separate status”, says the commissioner.

The commissioner of sports says that contrary to the arguments brought forward for not hosting the games in the Windward Islands, organizing the Kingdom Games on St. Maarten, with a few activities held on Saba and St. Eustatius, would have been exactly the kind of gesture benefitting brotherhood, unity and understanding for participants for participants from different parts of the kingdom.

“One should consider that, the islands of Saba and St. Eustatius, for instance, would have never been granted the opportunity to host Kingdom Games on their own; this was our way of displaying our solidarity with our sister islands and inviting visitors to be part of this unique experience”, says the commissioner.

Commissioner Richardson believes that other reasons, other than those communicated to St. Maarten, have played a role in the decision. This negatively impacts sports cooperation between the various islands of the Netherlands Antilles, he says.

“It cannot be so that while we make public statements regarding our working together through sports entities, St. Maarten and the Windward Islands are usually and systematically ignored or not given their rightful place”, says commissioner Richardson.

According to the commissioner of sports, St. Maarten has for too long been the victim of prejudice in many instances where sports decisions regarding the island are taken at central government level or by Netherlands Antilles sports organizations.

Commissioner Richardson says that the decision will however not discourage him from continuing to champion St. Maarten as a most suitable venue for Kingdom Games and similar events.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- The prosecutor’s office has released a tip line for persons who may have information regarding the slaying of David Eustace. Prosecutor Rienk Mud in a press release states that persons who may have information on the killing of Eustace can call 9300. Mud said in view of the investigation concerning the brutal death of David Eustace, who was shot on October 2, 2009, near his Club Casa Blanca, the police has released a so called ‘tip line’. The number of this free tip line is 9300. If you have any information or knowledge that can help the police to solve this crime, please call 9300 and leave your message on the answering machine

GREAT BAY (GIS)—This year Tanny and the Boys are celebrating their 50th anniversary, The Government Information Service interviewed the group at the Emilio Wilson Park and they have put together a Special Program to be played on Tuesday, November 10 at 6:00pm on Channel 15.

Band Members present (non active or active) were Alberto Richardson, Arthur Mathew, Jocelyn Arndell, Maxime Reed, George Violenus, Rosevelt Samuel, and Edward Violenus.

Karl “Tall Boy” Arndell, former member of Tanny and the Boys, was also present to provide some insight into his past experiences with the band.

GIS also went to speak to Frederico “Culebra” Smith at his home in Philipsburg.

Past members were Nathaniel “Tanny” Davis, the founder of the band, and Abraham Thomas, and Thomas Pemberton.

The band talked about how the group was formed, where they have played, their experiences with the band, and personal remembrances—whether learning their instrument or playing at a particular favorite spot.

Tanny and the Boys have been playing for 50 years throughout St. Maarten at all sorts of functions, from weddings to Governmental functions to personal parties to travels abroad to play or to accept awards.

One of the special trips of the band is when they went to Cuba. In the special, members speak about this experience.

The band has also changed names several times, according to Jocelyn Arndell, from its inception, namely the first name was Seteto Flores, then the Philipsburg Conjunto, after that the name was the Beach Island Stars, and finally the Tanny and the Boys.

For their 50th Anniversary, the band will be playing at the Festival Village.

The string band plays meringue, salsa, soca, blues, and bolero, among other types of music. The instruments that they use are: banjo, guitar, accordion, tambura, marimba, and the guiro.

 

 

Below are a number of photographs taken during the official ceremony of St. Maarten Day.

GREAT BAY- The Netherlands Antilles & Aruba Weather Service has issued a special bulletin at 3.00pm with respect to a "severe rainfall watch" which is in effect for St. Maarten. This watch is in effect until 6.00pm.

Motorists are hereby advised to exercise extreme caution while driving home from work late this afternoon.

Heavy showers leading to local flooding are possible over sections of the island are anticipated. Residents are urged to avoid driving in low-lying areas and in flooded streets until the anticipated heavy rain has tapered off or ended and the anticipated floodwaters have subsided.

In case there are lightening strikes very close to your location, switch off and disconnect any sensitive electronic equipment. Also, disconnect any phone line from your computer.

Motorists should exercise extreme caution while driving in hilly areas and to be on the lookout for possible rock falls.

 

Persons who do not need to be on the road at this point in time should remain at home until weather conditions improve.

 

The Welgelegen road in Cay Hill has been closed to all vehicular traffic for the period Monday afternoon and evening due to the anticipated heavy rainfall.

 

Residents are advised to continue to monitor radio broadcast for any

additional information that may be issued by the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and for weather reports issued by the Netherlands Antilles & Aruba Weather Service.

 

 

MARIGOT— A grocery store in French Quarter is the latest victim of robbery reported the gendarmes in a press release. The grocery store was robbed some time on Tuesday morning at gunpoint. The armed robbers managed to take the all the cash that was in the cash register however; no one was hurt in the ordeal.

The gendarmes also managed to arrest a 36-year-old man earlier on Tuesday for stealing a car. According to the release, a woman reported that her car was stolen in Mont Vernon. While at the La Savanne Gendamerie a friend of the victim saw her car in French Cul de Sac area. Two gendarmes responded to the scene and arrested the man who was driving the stolen vehicle. He is to appear in court on December 17.

The gendarmes also arrested a suspect who they were looking for since September 16. This suspect is wanted for holding up a driver in St. James at gun point and forced him to drive across the border where he had intended to rob an ATM machine. Some alert Dutch side police officers had chased the suspect and his victim back to the French side. He was arrested on November 16th, he is scheduled to appear in court on December 10.

The gendarmes also detained four other persons who are suspected of being involved in extortion.

 

 

Belvedere: --- Residents of Dutch Quarter/ Belvedere showed up in numbers on Thursday afternoon to witness the unveiling of three statues that were placed at the newly built roundabout. They are Jean Frederique Brooks “Tata the Bus driver,” Alexander Lionald Richardson “Alec the Butcher” and Florian Eulalie Duzanson “Lalie.” Relatives of the deceased were given the opportunity to highlight what each of the late honorees did during their lifetime. While the occasion was meant on, opening a new roundabout one would believe that some focus would be placed on traffic alleviation, but the life stories of the three honorees stole the attention of those who attended the ceremony. Alec the Butcher father of 42 was best known for farming and selling fresh meat. According to his daughter her father introduced the Dr. Claude Wathey to politics as he was a member of the National Party while Lalie she was known for providing fresh bread, tarts and shelter to those in need. While baking was her source of income Lalie also cared for students and people who came from Aruba to St. Maarten, she also provided shelter to many during disastrous moments such as hurricanes. While each of the three icons did what they do best to make a living it was clear they impacted several lives along the way and honoring them in such a way was well warranted.

Tata the bus driver he was best remembered for transporting students to from school. He was also known as the bus driver who made sure there was discipline on his bus. Tata transported several persons now holding government function including Commissioner Theo Heyliger.

Attending the ceremony was leader of government William Marlin, former commissioner of Public Works and Finance Roy Marlin, and the current commissioner of public works Theo Heyliger.

The roundabout as well as the drainage around Belvedere cost the island government some 5.4 million guilders, with 3.4 spent only on the roundabout itself. The land on which the roundabout was constructed on was donated to the island government by the Plantz family, while financing was made available through the sale of the Belvedere lots. Leader of Government William Marlin in his address said it has been 12 years now since the negotiations on the roundabout began and he was the one who got the donated parcel of land while in government from the Plantz. While Commissioner Heyliger reminded the gathering that he was part of all three executive councils that initiated the process of the new roundabout as well as finalizing it. Heyliger said one has to understand that government projects takes time since every detail of the process has to be analyzed.

The statues were unveiled by relatives of the deceased honorees and commissioner Heyliger.

 

 

Philipsburg: ----The Special Robbery Unit has reported that, the 0-tolerance team on Friday November 20, during a control arrested two suspects that are wanted in several armed robbery cases. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in his police report stated that the 0-tolerance team is busy investigating a number of armed robbery cases.

The two suspects who are now in police custody were driving in a red Hyundai Getz with a French license plate on the Walter Nisbet Road in Philipsburg, when they were stopped by members from the 0-tolerance team.

During this control these two suspects, both male could not properly identify themselves. The officers also noticed that the electrical wires leading to the switch of the vehicle in question were cut. Upon seeing this, officers immediately suspected that the vehicle in question was stolen.

The suspects are identified by initials D.V. and L.T both from the island of St Lucia and residing in the Cole Bay area, were arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station.

At the police station, the vehicle was searched and several items that were found in the vehicle were items that were reported stolen during several armed robberies, which have taken place recently on the island. Both suspects were turned over to the Special Robbery Unit for questioning. During questioning, the suspects admitted to have been involved in at least five of these robberies. They also admitted that the red Hyundai Getz was a stolen vehicle. Both suspects remain in custody for further questioning.

One suspect arrested/ various stolen items recovered.

Also on Friday November 20, during a patrol, a unit of the 0-tolerance team spotted a suspicious green colored Hyundai Accent, with license -plate R-1474 in which four persons were, driving through the Dutch Quarter area.

When the driver of this car realized that, the police had them in sight he increased his speed and tried to get out of the area. A short chase took place and in the Gibbs drive, the car was stopped. Three of the occupants took of running on foot leaving the driver behind. The driver with initials M.A.H. from Jamaica was arrested on the spot. During a search of the vehicle, several items found in the vehicle are items that were reported stolen in several ongoing criminal investigations. The suspect was taken to the Philipsburg police station where he was turned over to the detective department and where he will remain in custody for further investigation. More arrests are expected in this case as the investigation goes on.

 

 

 

 

A successful launch of St. Maarten's new image campaign was conducted in New York, N.Y. this past week. The event was attended, by among others, St. Maarten's commissioner of tourism, Frans Richardson and head of St. Maarten's tourism bureau, Regina Labega. Other guests included Rafael Cardozo, President of Tambourine, the agency that created the new branding campaign, as well as travel writers.

Philipsburg: --- SMN News has been reliably informed that the executive council of St. Maarten had to re-schedule one of its agenda points on Tuesday. Sources say that the executive council had intended to discuss the much talked about SOAB report on ROB department. The final report was given to the Leader of Government William Marlin and the Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards early last week while members of the executive council also received a copy of the report late last week, as they were to take a decision on the report on Tuesday. The report has been divided into three sections all of which have consequential information.

SMN News learnt that a decision was to be taken on the contents of the report, which is said to have severe consequences on the department and those working there. However, Commissioner responsible for Public Works Theo Heyliger did not attend the meeting on Tuesday hoping that the National Alliance majority would have taken a decision on their own.

SMN News learnt that the agenda point has since been postponed to next week where the matter would have to be discussed one way or another. Sources say Heyliger also has to take part in the budget discussions but somehow he is evading these discussions.

SMN News also learnt that the executive council might decide to move most of the workers that are currently working at ROB as recommended by SOAB. While it is clear that, the management of ROB would some day have to answer questions on how they managed the department over the years SOAB has recommended that members of the management team be removed immediately. In its report, SOAB indicated the amount of irregularities that was found in each section of the department including workers who were conducting side jobs for investors, incomplete files that were approved for certain investors, the lack of building permits of certain buildings that have been constructed are only some of the highlights in the report.

Efforts made to contact Heyliger for a comment on the report and his failure to attend the weekly executive council meeting on Tuesday proved futile up to press time.

 

 

Philipsburg:---17 youngsters between the ages of 13 and 17 received their certificates of completion after putting on a display for parents and invited guests as the first of three ceremonies scheduled to celebrate the conclusion of three Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program concluded. The ceremony took place at the Living Praise Ministry building in Philipsburg on Tuesday evening.

The Youth Leadership program is a recognized program of Toastmasters International and the purpose is to instill self confidence in youngsters by helping them develop effective communication and leadership skills. The program consists of eight weekly sessions during which youngsters are taught proper speech writing and public presentation skills including bringing the speech to life thru body language, eye contact, vocal variety and gestures. In addition, they are required to practice good listening skills in order to provide positive feedback to their colleagues. The sessions also allowed the youngsters to practice parliamentary procedures as part of their leadership development.

During the closing and certificate ceremony, all youngsters got the opportunity to perform as they conducted a Toastmasters meeting where they could show off the skills learnt and their improved self confidence. Parents and invited guests were very impressed to see the public speaking skills of the youngsters and inquired about having advanced sessions. Vijay Dayalani, President of the group for the last two months gave a full explanation of Toastmasters and how much they have learnt over the period and expressed the sentiment of all present who were happy to have made it, but sad that the sessions had come to an end.

Program facilitator, Advanced Communicator Silver and Competent Leader Valerie Brazier explained that the Youth Leadership program on St Maarten started three years ago when the Ark Foundation and the United Student Government approached the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club to conduct sessions to help youngsters with their self confidence. The resounding success of the program has this year resulted in toastmasters having to conduct two regular sessions and introduce an advanced session for those who wish to continue. “We are pleased that the Ark Foundation and Ms Edna Rijkaard have chosen to continue working with St Maarten Toastmasters to help these youngsters; Brazier stated. She thanked her assistant Nina Lambert-Diaz, the Ark Foundation and the Living Praise ministry for making the building available for hosting of the sessions over the two month period. In commending the youngsters she encouraged them to continue excelling as they prepare themselves for future leadership opportunities.

The ceremony for the advanced group, facilitated by DTM Rolando Tobias will take place this Friday evening and the final group will have their certificate presentation ceremony next week Monday.

 

 

 

GREAT BAY,– The family physician practice of Dr. Zamora Perez Augusto at the Orange Grove Plaza in Cole Bay is the ninth medical clinic that is available in administering the pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine to risk groups.

The vaccination schedule at the Zamora Perez Medical Clinic is Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 2.30pm to 4.00pm.

The process of administering the pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine started on Monday, November 23 for high risk groups.

Persons who fall under the identified risk groups are asked to visit their family physicians at the following clinics as of the specified days and times:

- Dr. Mercuur Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 1.00pm);

- Bush Road Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 2.00pm);

- Dr. Deketh Clinic (Monday to Friday, 2.00pm to 3.00pm)

- Dr. Ruth Douglas (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 7.30am to 9.30am)

- Union Road Clinic of Dr. Van Osch (Wednesday, Thursday 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

- Simpson Bay Medical Clinic of Dr. Tjaden and Dr. Datema (Wednesday and Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

- Dr. Spencer Clinic (Wednesday, 2.00pm to 4.00pm)

- Great Bay Clinic of Dr. Bus/Dr. Knol (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 2.00pm to 3.00pm; call 542-6542 for an appointment, only 20 persons per day).

According to guidelines from the Netherlands Antilles Influenza A (H1N1) Protocol, all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be vaccinated.

Other persons who form part of the risk group that should get vaccinated are:

• Persons with chronic conditions e.g. with pulmonary disease; with cardiac disease; with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication; with chronic kidney disease/failure; after a recent bone marrow transplant; with HIV-infection.

• Persons with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;

• 60 years and older.

Health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups mentioned above (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices) should also get vaccinated.

Home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to pandemic influenza A (H1N1) should also be vaccinated.

For persons who do not fall within the identified risk groups, you are advised to continue with implementing preventive measures (maintain high standards of hygiene), staying healthy and keeping a safe distance from persons with a flu-like illness.

 

 

Airport:--- Commissioner of Aviation, tourism and economic affairs Frans Richardson welcomed Westjet Airline on their inaugural flight on Sunday November 1. The following is the full text of the speech delivered by the commissioner.

Allow me, on behalf of the people and government of St. Maarten, to bid a very special welcome to WestJet, on the occasion of this inaugural flight, which has just touched down at our Princess Juliana International Airport…

I wish to extend to you, particularly to our esteemed guests just arriving from Canada, a warm St. Maarten welcome.

I am pleased that the following WestJet officials could join us on this memorable occasion; they are: Ms. Janice Webster -- Vice President of Talent Management & Retention in People Department; Mr. Robert Palmer -- Manager of Public Relations and Ms. Angela Braun -- CARE Coordinator.

I am delighted with the level of commitment that we now have from WestJet.

Today, West Jet has become the first airline to provide scheduled airlift service out of Canada into St. Maarten, bringing 116 passengers aboard flight 2652.

Importance of Canadian market

The Canadian market is important to St. Maarten.

Interest for the Caribbean remains high in North America, according to the CTO, the Caribbean Tourism Organization.

With a total of nearly 2.5 million Canadian visitors last year, the Canadian tourism market accounted for a 14 percent growth overall, according to CTO figures.

Canadians are known to have been long-time supporters of the Caribbean and have nearly doubled their tourism numbers to the region since 2005, according to the CTO.

Penetration Canadian market

 

As Commissioner responsible for tourism, economic affairs and aviation, I was thrilled to hear, sometime ago, how bookings for flights to St. Maarten are doing extremely well. Load factors are said to already be in excess of 80% for the first 3 months of bookings.

Based on demographic data obtained from WestJet, bookings indicate the following:

 

60 percent of these bookings come from Toronto

13 percent from Montreal

10 percent from Calgary

7 percent from Ottawa

3 percent from Edmonton

3 percent from Vancouver

4 percent from Halifax

One can say that with WestJet, we now have the opportunity to really penetrate the Canadian market.

My goal is to steer our tourism development in a positive direction not only by our marketing efforts, but by our aggressively pursuing all opportunities to improve our tourism product.

What does regular schedule by WestJet mean for St. Maarten?

• Additional numbers to fill hotel rooms

• Additional shoppers for our stores and business establishments

• Increased revenues for the airport and handling agents.

This in turn is good news for the economy.

Figures made available by the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, indicate total expenditures by U.S. and Canadian visitors to St. Maarten, during the first 6 months of this year amounting to over 39 million U.S. dollars!

If we look at projections now, we need to take into account an 80 percent projected load factor of seating capacity on WestJet flights.

In terms of income for St. Maarten, it would mean an increase of almost 50 percent of what we bring in annually from the Canadian market.

Every time, a WestJet flight lands here, St. Maarten earns income from:

• The sale of fuel

• Landing fees

• Passenger handling fees

• Ground handling fees

• Navigation fees

• Sita- CUTE fees

• Passenger screening fees

• Airport departure taxes

• Increased hotel room occupancy

• Increased spending at restaurants

• Increased business for taxis and car rental operators

 

Preliminary estimates are that the financial impact for St. Maarten would amount to some 5.5 million U.S. dollars during the months of November to April. The financial impact for the year, which is From January to December, would amount to over 10.5 million U.S. dollars.

Open skies policy

Open-skies policies will be a start to opening up and liberalizing the air travel market, giving rise to the abolition of monopolies, greater competition and potentially lower fares.

Key provisions of most of the existing civil agreements include:

No restrictions on international route rights; number of designated airlines; capacity; frequencies; and types of aircraft.

It provides for fair and equal opportunity to compete:

All carriers — designated and non-designated — of both countries may establish sales offices in the other country, and convert earnings and remit them in hard currency promptly and without restrictions. Designated carriers are free to provide their own ground-handling services — "self-handling" — or choose among competing providers.

It provides for liberal charter arrangements:

Carriers may choose to operate under the charter regulations of either country.

I look forward to the day when bilateral agreements can be signed facilitating open sky policies benefitting St. Maarten.

We need to implement changes in our aviation sector to make us even more competitive and more sustainable.

I am optimistic about our strategic location with convenient airlift from most major U.S. markets, and now from Toronto, Canada.

 

Commitment

The commitment of my office, the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and that of this government of St. Maarten is that WestJet can count on us in being a true partner as we, together, embark on further promoting destination St. Maarten throughout the Canadian market.

With this in mind, I have reason to be confident that WestJet will play its role, as a new stakeholder with St. Maarten, in the further development of this island as a premiere vacation destination not only in the Caribbean, but throughout the world.

As we are now into the final quarter of 2009 and the winter travel season is beginning, we are confident that WestJet will aid St. Maarten in increasingly becoming a popular and trusted choice for Canadians seeking value from their vacation dollars.

WestJet -- St. Maarten looks forward to being partners with you!

 

Once again, allow me to congratulate WestJet as well as all other instances and persons, who have worked so diligently to make this inaugural flight a reality – as we celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in St. Maarten’s ongoing tourism history.

 

 

GREAT BAY (GIS) The Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards & Leader of Government William Marlin are leading a delegation that is presently in the Netherlands on a working visit.

The delegation visited the Police Corpse of Rotterdam-Rijnmond, fruitful discussions were held with Chief of Police Aad Meijboom and the top brass of the organization, in light of the ongoing project concerning the improvement and the functioning of the police corpse of Sint Maarten and in light of the constitutional changes, which will take effect in 2010.

Present at the abovementioned discussions were also the Program Leader Constitutional Affairs Sint Maarten, Dennis Richardson, Acting Chief Commissioner of Police Sint Maarten, Ademar Doran, technical assistant charged with the improvement project, Ronald Dongor, Police Commissioner Rotterdam/Rijnmond, Eric de Vries, and Acting Chief of Police Rotterdam/Rijnmond, Hans Visser.

 

 

SIMPSON BAY - Bridge repair and maintenance works are set to begin on November 6 until 14 as scheduled, Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation Managing Director Russell Voges said on Wednesday.

Maritime traffic will have to work with two bridge openings on a daily basis from Friday, November 6 to Saturday, November 14, namely 6.30am and 6.00pm for outbound and inbound movement of vessels.

Vehicular traffic will not be affected during the repair and maintenance works. However, during the late evening hours, the bridge will be opened for short periods of time of no more than 15 minutes in order to be able to finalize the conservation of the underlying sides of the bridge deck.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority would like to apologize for any inconvenience that the maintenance works will cause during the period of November 6 to 14.

On Sunday, November 8 only, the bridge will open during the three regular opening hours of 9.30am, 11.30am and 5.30pm for outbound and inbound maritime traffic.

From Sunday, November 15 until Monday, November 30, the bridge will open during the three normal opening hours of 9.30am, 11.30am and 5.30pm for outbound and inbound maritime traffic.

Contractor Hofman Sliedrecht NV will be carrying out the maintenance works.

The maintenance works entails the strengthening of two main girders and subsequent conservation of the structure; the repair of the bridge fenders; the finalization of the electrical circuits and the standardizing of the traffic lights for maritime and vehicular traffic.

Motorists are advised to pay extra attention while crossing the bridge. A bucket truck will be parked on the sidewalks of the bridge deck and motorist should exercise caution when passing.

 

 

Regional airline, Windward Islands Airways International N.V (WINAIR) has announced a sizzling hot special in observance of three special events to take place in three of its nine destinations. The events are; St. Maarten day which will be observed on November 11th, St. Eustatius day on November 16th and Saba day on December 4th.

According to the airline’s Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper the specials that are being offered is geared towards further demonstrating the airline's commitment, determination and appreciation for the islands that they serve. He noted that serving these islands for some decades now they have recognized that constantly giving back will serve in further boosting the excellent relationship that they share with their brothers and sisters on these islands.

“We thought it best to have a special implemented for these events as we are cognizant of the level of support and patronage that we receive. As such, we have decided to have this sizzling special which I am sure is a true demonstration of our continued commitment,” Bancamper said.

He disclosed that fares will start as low as US$ 4.00 one-ways to Saba, US$ 11.00 to St. Maarten and US$ 16.00 to St. Eustatius. However he noted that seats are very limited urging the traveling public to make full and advantageous use of the special which he said has special conditions. In giving an insight into the special conditions that apply, Buncamper said fares are flight specific, seats are limited while and can be purchased at Winair sales offices in St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius and online.

He added that fares are non changeable, non refundable pointing out that airport taxes and surcharges have been excluded along with service fees. Boasting about his company’s impressive track record of being a community oriented airline, Buncamper said they recognize that to forge a lasting relationship such as his, a company certainly needs to ensure that they play a pivotal role in the community development of the various islands. “It is a partnership and therefore we do not only seek to maintain a business but rather we seek to maintain a relationship as we strongly feel that it will help in enhancing our service while ensuring that we can make a meaningful contribution to the island’s growth and development,” he noted.

Buncamper also joined with the airline’s Managing Director, Edwin Hodge in wishing residents and citizens of these islands a joyful and safe celebration of their annual day urging them to continue seeking ways in boosting the relationship between themselves and the airline.

 

 

Great Bay:---St. Maarten has been selected as the location of the tenth Annual General Meeting of the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) in October 2010. This was a unanimous decision taken by the membership during the close of the recently concluded 9th Annual General Meeting held in St. Georges Grenada on October 29 & 30.

According to HIV/AIDS Programme Manager Suzette Moses-Burton, “This is a tremendous opportunity, which took some lobbying on the part of the Dutch territories present at the meeting. The PANCAP AGM is one the largest and highest level regional HIV/AIDS meetings held annually. It brings together all the key stakeholders working in HIV in the region, including heads of Governments, ministers, international donors, regional agencies, national programme managers, members of civil society and the community of people living with HIV as well as non-governmental, community- and faith-based organisations. This year’s meeting had over 160 persons representing the various members of the partnership and it is expected that next year’s meeting will draw even more participation as it marks the 10th anniversary of the partnership. We felt that it would be an opportune moment for St. Maarten to be given the chance to host this meeting, as October 10, 2010 will also mark a historic occasion for our island, the achievement of country status, and what better way to demonstrate our pride in such an achievement than by welcoming and hosting delegates from the region and the world who come together to discuss the region’s collective response to halt the spread of the HIV epidemic. This will also be a significant boost for our tourism product and we intend the work closely with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in the planning of this event. As one of the most active members of the partnership it also gives us the unique opportunity to expose the rest of the region to the peculiarities of the epidemic being faced by the Dutch territories. I am very pleased and proud that St. Maarten has been selected as the venue for such an auspicious and important event. We plan to make this the best ever PANCAP AGM.”

 

 

Philipsburg: --- The Editor of the Today Newspaper Alex Holder is now in police custody, he appeared before the judge of instruction on Monday afternoon and was given an eight days extension in pretrial detention. SMN News learnt that Holder was arrested over the weekend after his girlfriend filed a complaint with the police.

Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of A.H whom he said would appear in court sometime during the afternoon on Monday. Mud said the suspect has been charged with theft. No other details on the case have been released.

It is further understood that Holder had a domestic dispute with his girlfriend and her brother last week. The newspaper editor published a story in the newspaper he worked for outlining details of the dispute, which he said, occurred during his son’s baptism. SMN News further learnt that the dispute began when the suspect allegedly stole monies from his girlfriend. Sources said the suspect allegedly took some $5000.00 from his girlfriend credit card since he was in possession of the card and its pin number.

Efforts made to contact the young woman proved futile up to press time.

 

 

Philipsburg:---We are absolutely honored and thrilled that one of St. Maarten’s very own, Mr. Darren James will be delivering the keynote address to the National Alliance Congress, and to particularly the youth, under the theme: “Together, Moving forward”. Darren A. James is the son of the late former Commissioner and Island Councilman, Vance James Jr. and Theresita L. James. Darren graduated with distinction at the St. Maarten Academy where he was the 2nd Runner-Up Valedictorian. He received the Principal’s Award for Outstanding Leadership and was also recognized for his industriousness on the St. Maarten Academy Debating Team for the Annual Constitutional Affairs Interscholastic Youth Debates and his service as the 1st assistant editor of the School Newspaper “The Academy Journal” (a Bi-Monthly Publication). He held the presidency of the St. Maarten Constitutional Youth Club (now Constitutional Cultural Club) between 2004 and 2006, where he joined other students in relaying the message of constitutional change. He was also a member of the Interact Club.

Darren is now is pursuing a double major BA in Communication & Business at the American International College, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA and he is expected to graduate in 2010. As president of the Student Government Association at AIC he presided over the groundbreaking ceremony of a $4.3 million new athletic facility and mobilized AIC students to pledge $50,000.00 for this long awaited project. Darren’s long-range goal is to come back to the island to build his country St. Maarten through the field of Radio Broadcasting which he loves dearly. He has said, “Although my passion is media, I am not ruling out the possibility of a political track. I will go where life leads me.” Just last August he returned home to be the Masters of Ceremony for the St. Maarten Outstanding Youth Award (SMOYA) hosted by the St. Maarten Youth Council Association. That evening he expressed how proud he was to witness the creative talents on display and to listen to the many, unheralded accomplishments of St. Maarten’s youth.

St. Maarten is at a critical juncture in its history. We are acutely sensitive to the rapid pace at which geopolitical changes are taking place in the world. In the midst of a global financial crisis and a planet in peril due to the effects of global warming, we have arduously undertaken to finalize all steps to become a Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands before the end of 2010. On the eve of this new beginning, our people understand that there is a narrow window of opportunity, which we should not miss, but also recognized that we need to prepare our youth to inherit the future.

President of the Congress Committee, Terry J. Peterson, said, “I do believe that Darren James epitomizes the future of the National Alliance Party and he has every right to claim this inheritance. Besides his impressive resume, all of us can still remember the dynamic and touching tribute Darren delivered at his father’s memorial service, so we are more than confident in his ability to instigate crucial guidance to the young generation as we move forward as a community and country. It will be an exciting adventure and exceptional day for all of us, and we are happy that so many enthusiastic supporters and friends have expressed their desire to help us commemorate this special occasion.” The National Alliance Congress will be held at the Dutch Quarter Community Center on Sunday, November, 15, 2009 at 10:30 am to 6:30 pm. NA District Councils still have up until Friday afternoon to submit names to the Congress Committee for election to the Party Board.

From the National Alliance Congress Committee

 

 

Great Bay:-- St. Martin-The Think [RED], Do Safe slogan for the [RED] Campaign for 2009 is coming to an end, as World AIDS Day is fast approaching and the anticipation of the new slogan will be unveiled. It gives us time to reflect on the progress that we have made over the last two years.

After Talking and Thinking [RED] many people have taken the initiative to know their HIV status. Physicians have also taken the initiative to have their patients tested. This is clearly reflected in the amount of HIV tests requested at the St. Maarten Laboratory Services N.V. (SLS). There has been a noticeable increase of tests and we can expect that there will also be an increase in the number of new HIV individuals.

According to a report from the St. Maarten Laboratory Services, during the month of July a total of 605 HIV tests were administered; August saw a slight decrease with 502 HIV tests done; September saw a rise again with a total of 555 HIV tests administered; October also had an increase with 598 requests for HIV tests, and between November 1 to November 12 a total of 232 HIV tests has been requested.

Although worldwide there has been a noticeable decrease in HIV infections, the numbers of new infections on St. Maarten are expected to rise, because more HIV tests are being done.

According to HIV/AIDS Programme Manager, Suzette Moses-Burton, “It is important for us, as a community, to understand that the only way we can continue to progress is by knowing our status and protecting it. When the diabetes foundation holds their drives- new diabetics or borderline cases are discovered. In the same way when more HIV tests are conducted we will expect new cases to be discovered. We have to keep testing to get a realistic picture, ensure care and treatment, and protect our HIV status be it negative or positive. There is still the perception that than when one is HIV positive they can not get infected again. But the truth of the matter is that you can get re-infected with a different strain of the HIV virus and create other complications like the efficacy of your medication. We remain hopeful that as we move into year three of the campaign that the community will continue to be involved and take a more pro-active role in accepting the responsibility for taking charge of their sexual and reproductive health by ensuring that they have the information they need to avoid infection.”

The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team sees the increase in the number of tests requested at the SLS Lab both by patients and doctors as a clear signal that people are more aware about the disease and want to know their status.

 

 

Amsterdam/St. Maarten: --- A well-known Cole Bay family and the island government of St. Maarten was greeted with sad news early Tuesday morning. SMN News understands that a student studying in Holland passed away in her apartment. No information on how or what caused the death of the student has been obtained.

The student it is understood resides in Cole Bay and has been identified as Larissa Peterson (23). Reliable sources have informed this media house that an autopsy has to be performed on the body before it is shipped back to St. Maarten. So far no official statement has been released from the education department and the office of the commissioner of education. SMN News will bring you an update on this case as soon as the information becomes available.

SMN News would like to express our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Larissa Peterson.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Police and the Coast Guard intercepted a boat with 32 illegal immigrants including an 11-year-old girl. According to a press release from the Police Department the boat with the name Agatha D. Grenada was intercepted on Tuesday in St. Maarten waters. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the young girl was placed at the “I Can Foundation” while the adults mostly Haitians will be kept in custody, most of the immigrants that were on board the boat Henson said are female. Henson said the immigrants already informed police that were on their way to Miami when they were stopped at around 02:30 am on Tuesday morning.

An investigation is being carried out by the Immigration Department to determine exactly, who these persons are, where they were going and who is responsible for this boat trip among many other questions that have to be answered.

With exception of the 11 year old girl who is staying at the "I Can Foundation" all other persons will be held at the Philipsburg Police Station until the necessary steps have been taken for their safe trip back to their country, said the police spokesman. The vessel "Agatha D. Grenada" was also confiscated for further investigation. Prosecutor Reink Mud confirmed the interception of the boat. He said an investigation is currently taking place.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Pride Foundation has sent a letter to the executive council regarding the dilapidated buildings in Mullet Bay. Following is the letter.

The Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation has been paying attention to the recent developments surrounding the visit of Mr. Ansari to the Island and to the public outcry demanding that something must be done about the ruins of the old Mullet Bay Resort.

As one of St. Maarten’s foremost environmental organizations, the foundation is hereby adding its voice to the public’s demands that the dilapidated buildings at Mullet Bay need to be demolished and that the area needs to be cleaned.

Mullet Bay Resort was once Sint Maarten’s Flagship hotel, destroyed by hurricane Luis in 1995. The island as a whole and its tourism product was massively destroyed by hurricane Luis. Despite the hardships of the hurricane aftermath, the island has been rebuilt with the hard work of many in our community bringing the island back on the tourist map, with the exception of the Mullet Bay owner.

We are now 14 years later, and the ruins of the old Mullet Bay Resort stand as ugly eyesores, many painted with graffiti along the Rhine Road. St. Maarten Pride Foundation is hereby requesting that your Council requires Mr. Ansari to demolish the remaining ruins at his expense.

Many of our return visitors have commented over the years about the derelict state of the area, many of them have written letters to the newspapers, made comments on tourism websites as well as social networking sites.

Pride Foundations is of the opinion that the current state of the Mullet Bay area with its derelict buildings is an eyesore and diminishes the value of our tourism product as a whole. While our taxpayer’s money is being spent on marketing campaigns to promote a beautiful paradise, our visitors have to pass through the Rhine Road and witness an area that resembles a war zone.

The Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation is reminding Government that we have legislation that can be used to force the owner to demolish his derelict buildings and clean up the area;

The island waste management (Afvalverordening Sint Maarten) Artikel 28a states the following:

“Het is de eigenaar van enig onroerend goed verboden:

a. dit goed geheel of ten dele aan te wenden of de aanwending daarvan te gedogen voor het opslaan van onbruikbare of aan hun bestemming onttrokken voertuigen, vaartuigen, of vliegtuigen of onderdelen daarvan, oud metaal, glas, afbraak, afval, puin of andere oude materialen”.

 

The island waste management (Afvalverordening Sint Maarten) Artikel 35:

“1. Indien het bestuurscollege bij een aangetekend schrijven aan de eigenaar of gebruiker heeft verklaard dat de toestand van enig onroerend goed naar zijn oordeel vervuild of gebrekkig is, is de eigenaar verplicht binnen de door het bestuurscollege te bepalen termijn de door dat college voorgeschreven maatregelen uit te voeren.

2. Onverminderd het bepaalde in het eerste lid is de eigenaar of gebruiker van enig onroerend goed verplicht te gedogen de maatregelen die de door of vanwege het bestuurscollege aangewezen ambtenaar ter bescherming van het milieu noodzakelijk acht en hem ter uitvoering van deze maatregelen toegang te verlenen”.

Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation is of the opinion that our Island Government should no longer tolerate and entertain Sun Resort’s refusal to clean up their derelict buildings as their inaction is not based on lack of finances or resources, but rather appears to be one of disrespect to the people of Sint Maarten, our laws and our tourism product.

 

St.Maarten PRIDE foundation is also advocating that the area remains free from residential, commercial and Industrial development for a period of 15 years after the demolition. This small island has seen rampant development in the past 10 years and it would be wise to implement a large scale building moratorium until, police and security, sewage, environmental management, roads and infrastructure along with drainage issues have been planned out well by our government.

The Mullet Bay area is the last open green zone on the Western side of the island and should be promoted for eco-sports and leisure activities, such as golf, tennis, biking, rollerblading, running/jogging, kayaking and of course beach activities.

Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation hopes that government will use our existing laws in order to force Sun Resorts to clean up their mess and current derelict buildings. Without doing such, our government will be setting a negative example by allowing a development group to violate our laws to the detriment of our people and our main source of income Tourism.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Relatives and friends of Jenifer Sorhaindo (37) have several questions concerning her mysterious and sudden death. Sorhaindo, the mother of a ten-year-old boy died at the St. Maarten Medical Center on Wednesday after her sister had taken her there for medical attention.

SMN News understands that Sorhaindo was eight weeks pregnant and did an abortion at a doctor’s clinic on Monday. Sources close to the now dead woman said Sorhaino had visited the doctor on several occasions during a one-week period. It is also alleged that the doctor who performed the operation may have left parts of the fetus in the woman. However, we were unable to confirm the allegation. SMN News managed to make contact with close relatives and friends of the deceased woman that is living on the island and they are tight-lipped about what happened.

The young woman mother Stephanie Jno Baptiste arrived on the island on Thursday wondering how her daughter died and who is responsible for her death. Jno Baptiste said she spoke to her daughter sometime around St. Maarten Day and her daughter informed her that she fell down on a sports field as she went with her son who was participating in sports.

The woman said Jenifer told her when she reached home that day she realized that she was bleeding from the fall. She said her daughter told her she went to see a doctor and he gave her some painkillers and told her the baby was still in tact. However, about two days later Jenifer called her again this time telling her she was under severe pain and was bleeding heavily. Jno Baptist said her daughter told her, she visited the doctor for the second time and this time the doctor had given her some suppository to use which was intended to bring the baby down (aborting the fetus). According to Jno-Baptiste, her daughter had a miscarriage.

The woman further explained that her daughter told her that the suppository was not working and that the pain was becoming more unbearable. The distraught mother said her daughter also told her she went back to the doctor who told her she needed to have a clean out(D&C) where he would remove the fetus. “My daughter told me the doctor told her if she did the procedure at the St. Maarten Medical Center (hospital) it would cost her $1000 but, if it is done at the doctor’s office then she would only have to pay $650.” Jno Baptist said her daughter was supposed to do this procedure on Monday but since then she never heard from her again. “I cannot say if Jenifer went ahead with the procedure or if she did not do it”. Jno-Baptiste said.

Asked if her daughter was working and if she was in possession of an SVB card the woman said her daughter was working for a well-established business but left the job some years ago and was working for herself at the time of her death. “Jenifer was doing manicure and pedicure, and she was also selling Avon products.” What she told me was that she did not have the $1000 to pay the hospital. Jno Baptiste a national of Dominica could not provide the name of the doctor whom her daughter visited on the island and which doctor it was that supposedly did the procedure at their clinic. A family member told this reporter they needed time to grieve and that they were going to see a gynecologist that is working at St. Maarten Medical Center in the hopes of getting some answers as to the circumstances of Sorhaindo’s death.

While money seemed to have been the young woman’s problem, it is not known if she was residing on the island illegally. Her mother said her daughter had been living on St. Maarten for a number of years and that her son was born on the island. SMN News also understands that the woman was in a relationship with someone of good standing.

SMN News contacted Dr. George Scot for a comment on the woman’s death. Dr. Scot who is currently off island said he was not aware of the case but promised to contact the hospital for the file, which was to be sent to him by email. Up to press time, Dr. Scot said he did not receive the file and promised to make a statement as soon as he gets the file. Asked if doctors on the Dutch side are authorized to perform abortions Dr. Scot said if any doctor even a gynecologist on the Dutch side is caught performing abortions they can lose their licenses. Dr. Scot further explained that if there is a case of emergency the doctors at the St. Maarten Medical Center would refer their patient to the French side where abortion is legal. He said when the procedure is over they at St. Maarten Medical Center would also take ex-trays to make sure nothing is left inside the woman.

SMN News also contacted Prosecutor Rienk Mud to see if he was investigating the case and if a report was filed by the St. Maarten Medical Center with the police but the prosecutor said, he had no knowledge of the woman’s death. He suggested that the family make a report with the health inspector who is based in Curacao.

SMN News will bring you more information on this case as it develops.

 

 

St. Maarten – A series of stamps commemorating aviation pioneers from Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten has been issued by Nieuwe Post Nederlandse Antillen N.V. in cooperation with the Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation. The stamps featuring ‘Freddy’ Johnson (Saba), José ‘Pipe’ Dormoy (St. Eustatius) and ‘Chester’ Wathey (St. Maarten), as well as special first day envelopes were presented to the families of the pioneers and to the Lieutenant-Governors of Saba and St. Eustatius and to the leader of government of St. Maarten by the General Managing Director of Nieuwe Post N.A. during a special ceremony at the Belair Community Center in St. Maarten.

General Managing Director Mr. Franklin Sluis, Post Master General of the Netherlands Antilles, acknowledged the contributions of the three pioneers to the development of the islands before handing over specially framed presentations of the first day envelopes to Patsy Johnson from Saba, widow of the late ‘Freddy’ Johnson; to Ms. Elizabeth ‘Elly’ Deliën from St. Eustatius, partner of many years of the late José Dormoy; and to Ms. Brenda Wathey of St. Maarten, daughter of the late Norman ‘Chester’ Wathey.

Lieutenant Governors and Commissioners

 

Mr. Jonathan Johnson, Lieutenant Governor of Saba, said that the first day memento would find a special place on the walls of Saba’s airport in honor of the pioneers. Commissioner Chris Johnson, speaking on behalf of the government of Saba, stated that: “We have a very vibrant, new community in Saba and that would not be possible if Saba had never been opened up to the outside world.” On behalf of the younger generation of the island, he expressed appreciation for being able to enjoy the results of the work of the aviation pioneers.

The lieutenant-governor of St. Eustatius, Mr. Hyden Gittens, also congratulated the families of the honored aviation pioneers and said that the legacy of these great men would be continued.

St. Maarten leader of government Commissioner William Marlin recognized the pioneers “who have left their marks in aviation history, each of them in their own respective way,” and went on to say that “it is important that the Postal Services were able to engrave their names in history – not only for the families but for us as a people. And it should not stop there. It should become part of the text books that we still have to write. ”

Mr. Frans Richardson, St. Maarten’s commissioner for aviation affairs, also stressed that “We must continue to highlight the achievements of our people in aviation.” He underlined that it is important to record the stories of those early years before it is too late so that everyone “can have an understanding of what was the contribution to the aviation world of our people. “ He commended the Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation for taking up this task.

Families and Friends

Senator Will Johnson from Saba, brother of the late Freddy Johnson, spoke words of thanks on behalf of his family. He stated that “Freddy and his family have been one of the most reliable agents for Winair since 1962,” and reminded the audience that “For years Freddy did not charge Winair ground handling fees as he said Winair could not afford it.” Referring to the legacy of the pioneers, he also mentioned how “In the past thirty years many young St. Maarteners, Statians and Sabans have been inspired to learn to become pilots.”

Historian and communications professional Walter Hellebrand from St. Eustatius, secretary and member of the board of the Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation, spoke on behalf of Ms. Elly Deliën, partner of the late José Dormoy. He highlighted the role of “Pipe” in releasing Statia and Saba from their isolation and thereby improving the quality of life of the people. He conveyed the appreciation of Ms. Deliën and the Foundation for immortalizing José Dormoy on “a stamp that reminds us that it takes extraordinary people to make things happen that we now find ordinary and take for granted.”

Ms. Brenda Wathey expressed the appreciation of the Wathey family for the recognition shown to her father.

The Van Dol Dancers livened up the spirits with a captivating performance before everyone was invited for drinks and snacks catered by the St. Martin Food & Beverage Catering Services.

The stamps.

Mr. Terrance Rey, managing director of AirStMaarten, a company specializing in private charters throughout the Caribbean and current President of the Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation, emceed the event. He remembered how just over a year ago, while discussing ways to honor the aviation pioneers of the Windward Islands over lunch with Ms. Elizabeth Deliën (then president of the Foundation), the management of the Post Office happened to walk in. The subsequent talks and discussions that day led to the submittal of a request to have the three stamps issued.

The stamps are valued 59 cents (Freddy Johnson), 110 cents (Chester Wathey) and 164 cents (José Dormoy). They are available – as are the special first day envelopes – from all post offices in the Netherlands Antilles and also from postal agents such as Mazinga Store in St. Eustatius.

 

Projects of the Aviation Pioneers Foundation.

The Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation was established in 2008 by Elly Deliën to preserve and promote the history of aviation in the Caribbean - in particular in the Windward Islands – and to pay tribute to the pioneers who opened up the islands to the outside world and thereby played an important role in their development. Some of the ways by which the Foundation tries to achieve its purpose include research and exposure of the history of aviation as well as projects to create more interest in the aviation history of each individual island. As a non-profit organization, the Foundation’s work could not be possible without the generous contributions of many donators and contributors. More information can be found on: www.aviationpioneers.info.

In its first year, the Foundation’s sizable archive was inventoried and organized. Also, displays commemorating the aviation pioneers were arranged for Saba’s airport and Winair’s sales office in St. Maarten. A comprehensive, twelve panel display highlighting the aviation history of Saba, Statia, St. Barth’s and St. Maarten was unveiled in the departure lounge of Statia’s airport in September 2009.

The Board would like to encourage everyone with stories, material or images relating to the history of aviation in the northeastern Caribbean to contact the Foundation so that scans or copies can be made in order to increase the knowledge of its fascinating beginnings and development.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- While there are several questions surrounding the death of Jennifer Sorhaindo (37) who passed away last week Wednesday at the St. Maarten Medical Center SMN News managed to secure some information regarding the case. Based on our research we learnt that Sorhaindo was a full time employee of the Oyster Bay Resort since April 2009. SMN News understands that the young mother worked for the resort in the past as a casual worker but managed to secure a contract in April 2009. It is understood that the company was deducting SVB and other allowances from her salary and was paying SVB.

However, the company it is understood allegedly failed to register Sorhaindo at SVB. SMN News learnt that Oyster Bay Resort did not fill in the Mutation form for Sorhaindo and some other employees that were hired during the same period. The source said that the company contacted SVB after the woman’s death and explained to them that they somehow made a mistake by not filling out the forms and has since done that so that SVB can cover the expenses of the hospital when she died. SVB has since given the company a written warning where they gave Oyster Bay Resort one week to register all of its employees. Should this occur in the future then SVB would be in its full rights to sanction the company financially.

In an invited comment, Head of the Social Insurance Bank Reginald Willemssburg confirmed that the now dead woman was a full time employee of Oyster Bay Resort. Willemsburg also confirmed that the company did not register the employee while they were indeed paying her dues.

Willemsburg further explained that Sorhaindo went to SVB two weeks prior to her death and she withheld valuable information from them. He said when Sorhaindo went to them for assistance, they asked her where she was working, and she told them she was doing fingernails, and was cleaning some place. He said Sorhaindo did not tell them where she was cleaning and for how long. “She gave us the indication that she was cleaning somewhere on and off and we told her we could not do anything for her. Had she provided us with all the information she would have gotten her doctor card.” Willemsburg said.

Willemsburg said if Sorhaindo had given them all the necessary information, they would have been able to issue a doctor card to her even though she was not registered. He said he could have called the company to find out what was happening and why she was not registered. Willemsburg said he could not understand why Sorhaindo withheld information from them when she was entitled to her benefits. “There are people who lie to get a doctor card but here you have someone who robbed herself of her rights,” Willemsberg said.

SMN News also managed to secure information, which states that Sorhaindo was residing on the island legally as her extension is currently in process.

SMN News also learnt that Sorhaindo did visit a specialist at the St. Maarten Medical Center. It is further understood that the specialist did what he needed to do in his private clinic and the patient was supposed to check back with him the next day for follow-ups but she did not for the lack of cash. While family members say, the woman had a miscarriage this cannot be confirmed by anyone. Sources say the specialist is now saying the patient did not comply with his orders and she reached at the emergency room, too late which caused her death.

SMN News contacted the medical director of the St. Maarten Medical Center Dr. George Scot for a comment on this case. Dr. Scot said while there are three specialists working for the St. Maarten Medical Center. Two of them he said have their private clinic inside the hospital while one is located outside of the hospital. Dr. Scot said that the St. Maarten Medical Center does not have access to the records of these specialists and so he cannot say exactly what happened and how the woman died. Dr. Scot further explained that the patient was taken to the emergency room at 3 am on November 18 and she was admitted at 4 am. He said she passed away at 9 am that same day. “We depend on our specialist or doctors to tell us if someone needs emergency medical attention and when we are told that the patient is treated whether or not they have insurance.” Dr. Scot said he does not have the records from the specialist since it is private and as such, he cannot say if the woman had a miscarriage or an abortion. He did say both scenarios could cause the same outcome if proper care was not given.

SMN News also learnt that Sorhaindo visited the medical institution when she began feeling sick and the specialist who treated her at his clinic refused to return to the hospital saying he would be at the hospital at 6 am the next morning. Efforts made to contact the specialist in question proved futile up to press time.

 

 

Cole Bay: --- A 69-year-old man identified as Jean Pierre Roudon committed suicide at his home on Tuesday November 24. According to police spokesman, Ricardo Henson the victim was found hanging by his neck with a rope in his garage at Dr. Lavendag Street on Cole Bay Lagoon. Henson said a number of police patrol including detectives arrived on the scene where the body was found. According to man’s relatives, he was suffering from severe depression and had attempted to take his life before. An investigation was conducted which concluded that there was no criminal intent or act committed.

The Annual Ecumenical Thanksgiving service will take place on Sunday December 6th 2009 in front of the Government Administration Building. The service will start at 4:30pm and it is a joint service hosted by various churches on our island.

The general public is invited to come out to give thanks collectively for the safe passing of the 2009 hurricane season. The service will consist of praise & worship, songs and the spoken word. All are encouraged to come out and give the almighty God thanks for bringing us safely through another year.

During the service the annual lighting ceremony will take place to ring in the Christmas season.

A love offering will be received, which will go towards providing food baskets for less fortunate persons in the community for Christmas.

Individuals, groups, organizations, businesses etc. are encouraged to contribute to the food baskets by providing non-perishable food items.

You can contact the Department of Social Cultural Development to drop-off or call 5422056 for picking-up the food items.

 

 

GREAT BAY,– Chairman of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Governor Franklyn Richards, is thankful that once again the nation has been spared from a direct hit by a hurricane for the 2009 hurricane season.

“We have much to be thankful for having gone through the 2009 hurricane season without being struck by a storm and the costs that comes along with it in damages. The 2009 hurricane season comes to an end on Monday, November 30 until next year June 1 when it all starts again.

“I would like to thank the people of our island nation for taking the necessary preparations for the season. We had a number of storm systems that passed close to the island and these forced us into a emergency preparatory mode for possible damage should the system have changed direction.

“However, preparation at the beginning of every hurricane season is the key. It’s an investment that must be made in order to protect life and property. I would like to thank the public as well as the island’s disaster management team and emergency support functions for their role played in preparing the nation,” Governor Franklyn Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Sunday.

For the 2009 hurricane season, nine named storms formed of which three became hurricanes (Bill, Fred, and Ida) and of those two became major hurricanes of over category three (Bill category four, Fred category three).

Hurricane Bill became the first hurricane and first major hurricane of the season with 135 miles per hour winds.

Hurricane Fred, a category three according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, became the strongest hurricane on record south of 30 degrees North and East of 35 degrees West in the Atlantic Basin with wind speeds of 120 miles per hour.

 

 

Hi Bibi,

Via Oral Gibbes live and SOS 95.9 F.M. of Billy D, I informed the public, that I will no longer continue playing a leading public role any longer in terms of speaking out in the best interest of the people of this island.

For over 25 years, with all the passion in my soul, I took very public stances in defense of my native St. Martin people and I have come to the conclusion based on numerous considerations, that it is time to change course.

This decision has not come easy for me and I hope to live up to this commitment made to the public.

However, I also committed myself to support and assist those who approach me for such, based on a noble cause.

Recognizing the critical importance of an independent, outspoken media outlet for the people of this island, especially during these very trying times to me, is reason enough to support any such platform whose existence is coming under threat.

In addition, I too have become a victim of the powers that is not want our message to be heard.

Cases in point.

The CARIBBEAN CHAMPION weekly publication, of which I was the founder/publisher and which did not survive the 'silent' boycotts.

Then most recently,our radio-program, NATIONtalk,, which was also removed off the air under pressure from politicians and certain immigrant groups.

Now for the record.

If there has ever been a particular media-outlet, which was always available to us without discrimination, it was your site and your person as a journalist.

Based on the above-mentioned, Bibi, I am prepared to offer you whatever support possible under the circumstances.

Let it also be very clear that this support is NOT based on choosing any side in the conflict with the Collectivity.

It is based on the principle that it can not be tolerated that a media platform, on which so many people base their source of information on, can not be closed because a politician or some civil-servant feels offended.

To me even if that is the case, such can never exceed the greater interest of the general public for a broad and free flow of information.

The record has shown, time and again, that your information has been not only very timely, but oftentimes very reliable and it has forced other established outlets to publish your information in order not to appear out of touch.

Leopold JAMES

President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

 

 

CAY BAY— Diesel Generator #16 was taken offline for emergency repairs this morning, which is expected to result in load shedding until the engine is operational. A load shedding schedule will be made available shortly.

The general public is encouraged to prepare for outages lasting approximately 2 hours per area. Preparations include unplugging any sensitive electronic equipment, charging any portable and laptop batteries and checking UPS, voltage regulators and surge protectors to ensure they are functioning properly.

The tentative load shedding schedule will be made available as soon as possible and will be updated throughout the day as the situation develops. The schedule is an indication only as it is dependent on the varying demand and supply and therefore subject to change.

GEBE would like to apologize for the inconvenience to its customers. The power plant is operating at a very tight production schedule until the two new generators are commissioned in December 2009 and hence the need for load shedding from time to time. Visit www.nvgebe.com for load shedding updates for your area.

Here are some tips to prepare for an electricity outage:

• Unplug any sensitive electronics to avoid damage.

• Turn off all lights and electrical equipment. Leave on only one light or radio to alert you when the power has been restored.

• Try to minimize the time your fridge and freezer are open to keep the cool air in.

• Gather any flashlights and check spare batteries.

• Be careful if you decide to use candles. Do not leave them unattended.

• Prepare by equipping your house with automatic power failure safety lighting so that it does not go dark when the power goes out. That gives you time to locate your flashlights and other items.

 

 

Philipsburg:---NAGICO Insurances and Young Blood Boxing Gym have teamed up to host a night of amateur boxing on November 13th 2009. The L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium will come alive as some of the best young amateur fighters from the Dutch side, French side and Saba face off in what is being billed as this year’s most exciting night in local boxing. The main card of The Young Blood Boxing Gym, NAGICO Night of Amateur boxing will be a battle between Dutch St. Maarten’s Greg Richie and Saba’s, Enoch Charles.

An affordable $10 for general seating and $ 20 for ringside will give you entry. Matches are scheduled to start at 7:00 pm with 9 amateur bouts and 4 exhibition fights scheduled. The proceeds from the boxing event will go towards the purchasing of materials needed for training and to cover the travel expenses for young athletes who will travel abroad. The event is being held in association with the St. Maarten Amateur Boxing Association.

The entire boxing night is being spearheaded by Young Blood Boxing Gym trainer and local boxing celebrity Shawn “Pitbull” Blair. The sponsorship cheque was presented at NAGICO head office. On accepting the sponsorship Mr. Blair commented “It is one of the best feelings in a long time to know that NAGICO is willing to sponsor yet another community project, but this time in the form of boxing. NAGICO is once again providing an outlet for the youth to express themselves and keep themselves occupied. When I came up with the idea of holding an amateur fight night, and presented my proposal to NAGICO It was received positively. I would like to thank NAGICO for giving the youngsters this opportunity.”

NAGICO provided sponsorship for several big ticket professional fights held on the island last year, but unlike those events this night will focus only on amateurs.

 

 

GREAT BAY:-- – The Preventive Health Department (PHD) is making preparations to receive its first batch of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine which will first be administered to the high risk groups. It has been proposed by the Dutch Health Council and the Royal Institute for Public Health & the Environment that persons receive two A (H1N1) vaccinations.

According to guidelines from the Netherlands Antilles Influenza A (H1N1) Protocol, all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be called to be vaccinated.

From available international medical data there is consistent evidence that pregnant women are at increased risk for complications as a consequence of the pandemic influenza A (H1N1), even in the absence of known risk factors.

Vaccination in the first three months of pregnancy is discouraged because there is not sufficient data and on theoretical grounds a risk for the child cannot be ruled out.

Other persons who form part of the risk group:

• with pulmonary disease: asthma (when maintenance medication is given; this also holds true for children), COPD, carcinoma of the lung, anthracosilicosis, lungfibrosis , mucoviscidosis, severe kyfoscoliosis, status after resection of a lung, breathing difficulties;

• with cardiac disease: having experienced a myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, arrhythmias, valve dysfunction, cardiac failure;

• with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication;

• with chronic kidney disease/failure: dialysis, kidney transplant;

• after a recent bone marrow transplant;

• with HIV-infection;

• with an intellectual disability in an intramural setting;

• with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;

• 60 years and older.

Front-line workers will be vaccinated against pandemic influenza A H1N1 virus as well as health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices).

Home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to this flu will also be vaccinated.

Besides vaccination against pandemic in¬flu¬en¬za A (H1N1), vaccination against seasonal flu remains important. People, who would normally take their yearly seasonal flu shots, should still get their seasonal flu shot.

Members of the community are still strongly advised to maintain high standards of personal hygiene which entail covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, and washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with respiratory secretions (e.g., after sneezing and coughing).

Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way. Try to avoid contact with sick people.

The symptoms of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the virus.

Persons who have flu-like-illness should remain at home and contact their family physician via telephone who will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

Persons who have traveled in the preceding seven days to affected countries should seek immediate medical attention once they develop influenza-like symptoms. You are advised to stay at home and contact your family physician. This will help minimize the risk of infecting those around them, especially people who are at a higher risk of severe illness and complications of influenza.

Members of the public are advised to exercise caution over travel to affected areas. In the event that travel is unavoidable, the public is advised to take precautionary measures such as avoiding crowded areas and maintaining high standards of personal hygiene at all times. Another preventive measure is eating healthy foods, getting a lot of exercise and maintaining an eight-hour sleep schedule.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- The police department has reported that over the past five days there has been an increased in armed robberies. Police spokesman Ricardo Henson in a press release said that from November 3 to 8th several armed robberies were reported, most of which were violent. Henson said during this period at least 12-armed robberies were committed. The police spokesman said these robberies were committed by youngsters who are operating in groups of three to four persons.

The robbers Henson said are armed with handguns and or shotguns. The robbers are using excessive force such as beating their victims in their head with the butt of a gun and firing gunshots to overpower their victims and in doing so securing the success of the robbery. Chinese restaurants and supermarkets, parking lots of brothels and number offices just to mention a few of the businesses, were victims to these robberies.

The locations were Sint Peters, Philipsburg, Cole Bay, Middle Region, and Dutch Quarter. The last serious armed robbery took place November 7th when a worker from a popular lottery agency on the island was attacked and robbed of several moneybags. During this robbery, the victim suffered a serious wound to the back of his head and had to be transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for treatment.

The police are making an appeal to the public to get involved by giving the police information that can lead to the arrest of these culprits. The public can use the "Tipline by dialing # 9300. The entire communtiy should get involved to help reduce crime.

 

 

As predicted in “EPIC and St. Maarten Pride’s position statement on the Great Salt Pond Ring-road plans” of February 2009 and the Foundation’s “Objections to the Ring road Construction Permit request” of June of this year, the construction of the Ring road is having a devastating effect on the many species of birds, crabs and fish in the Great Salt Pond.

On the morning of Tuesday November 10th, 2009 St. Maarten Pride Foundation and EPIC representatives received calls from a concerned citizen and a department of New Works Project Manager who requested the Foundations to provide assistance at the Flood Gates between the Fresh Pond and the Great Salt Pond on the Illidge road, where hundreds if not thousands of fish were surfacing and unsuccessfully trying to get from the Salt Pond to the Fresh pond.

The Foundations contacted Nature Foundation Marine Park Manager Mr. Lake and arrived at the location at 9:35 am. Foundation representatives examined the situation and concluded that it was necessary to allow Fresh water to enter the Great Salt Pond immediately. The vast amount of sand dredged from the Great Bay area and deposited in the Great Salt Pond has increased the Pond’s salinity, this combined with diminished circulation and a decrease in oxygen levels caused many fish to die and others to seek access to a relatively more hospitable habitat in the Fresh Pond.

After over two long hours of phone calls to Commissioners, Sector Heads and other officials by Foundation staff, volunteers and Sector R.O.B staff, heavy equipment finally arrived to open the dam between both ponds, in order for much needed fresh water to enter the Great Salt Pond.

EPIC, Pride Foundation and the Nature Foundation will be closely monitoring developments at the Great Salt Pond and have advised government to allow a properly managed amount of water from the Fresh Pond to enter the Great Salt Pond when necessary in an attempt to somewhat stabilize the ecosystems.

 

 

GREAT BAY,– The Department of Social Cultural Development section Youth Affairs and Sports in conjunction with colleagues from the Dutch/French Organizing Committee is working on a number of activities to highlight International Day for the Rights of the Child.

November 20 is the international day set aside by nations around the world to recognize and highlight the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The international convention sets out the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of children. Nations that ratify this international convention are bound to it by international law.

The theme for St. Maarten’s observation of the day is, “Strong Families, Strong Communities, Strong Nation, Strong Children.”

On Monday, November 16, at the Dr. Claude Wathey Legislative Hall, a presentation will take place by Youth Ambassadors from the various secondary schools start at 3.00pm.

Representatives of the Dutch/French organizing committee will also be publicizing the convention using various forms of media during the course of the week November 16 leading up to November 20.

A Sports Day of activities involving approximately 600 young people from Dutch and French St. Martin as well as from Anguilla, Saba and St. Eustatius is scheduled for the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in Cay Hill on Saturday, November 21 starting at 9.00am sharp with an opening ceremony.

 

 

Regional airline, Windward Islands Airways Intl NV (WINAIR) is one of the major sponsors for the fourth annual Caribbean Home Exp. The eagerly looked forward to event will be held from November 13th through to November 15th and will be held at the Sonesta Maho Resort which have housed the event annually.

Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper, WINAIR is elated to be associated with such a prestigious event. He noted that the Caribbean Home Expo is an eagerly looked forward to event stressing that its professional execution continues to attract the attention of the airline.

He pointed out that in an effort to further promote WINAIR and its various destinations the will have a booth at the show to demonstrate its products and many services. Buncamper further noted that persons wishing to learn more about the airline and also have issues, concerns and questions addressed can also use that opportunity to come out as well.

Buncamper said that with the event expected to attract a large number of persons he strongly believes at the collaborative effort between WINAIR and the organizers will certainly aid in not only promoting the event but also reassuring visitors of the very effective air transport in WINAIR. He stressed that the company’s safe and unblemished track record over the past several decades speaks volumes of the level of commitment, determination and dedication in providing safe, reliable and timely transport from its various destinations.

He added that supporting community initiatives is one of the company’s greatest hallmarks noting that despite the challenges faced as a result of the economic down turn of the world’s economy he and his company strongly believes that community oriented projects and programmes should be given full and unconditional support.

“We at WINAIR strongly believes that the communities that we serve plays an integral part of our daily operation thus we strongly believe that as a community oriented corporate citizen that supporting such initiatives will continue to form a major part of our business,” he said.

Announcing that his company will be having a special during the event, the VP of Marketing said that any client that purchases a WINAIR ticket at the show will get a 25% discount on the lowest fare available for travel. Clients that don’t purchase their tickets but want to travel on WINAIR before February 28, 2010, will get a voucher for a 10% discount He further noted that WINAIR will also be raffling twice daily a voucher for 2 free tickets to any WINAIR destination.

Meanwhile, Coordinator of the event, Bernadette Davis, they have set out to accomplish their goal and that they now have the bragging rights based on the results of the past. Giving an accountant of the event for its four years of existence, Mrs. Davis noted that they have live up to their targeted expectation.

 

 

Six National Alliance supporters were inducted as honorary members for their exceptional service to the National Alliance Party by Party Leader, William Marlin. The persons honored were: Sarah Doncher, Alicia Warner, Ruth J. Alias, Marinus H. van der Neut, Henry Janvier, and Camille Baly. ,

Presiding over the ceremony, Congress Chairman Terry Peterson expressed, “It was a most difficult task for us as a committee in that only six of many deserving persons were chosen to receive the NA Distinguished Service Award. It does not mean that other persons are less deserving or unworthy, but that the committee chose to be as diverse and inclusive as much as possible this year, and decided to spread its choice over the various communities. In speaking to the honorees, the Leader of the National Alliance noted that, “An honor such as this is a wonderful way for us as the National Alliance family to recognize and celebrate the choices, and the extraordinary sacrifices, our members have made. But I believe that what should make us the most proud is not the actual honor itself, but what you had to do, sometimes under harsh circumstances, to get it. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, ‘The reward of a thing well done is to have done it.’ Thus, any recognition is just the icing on the cake, not to be expected but definitely to be enjoyed and celebrated.” The National Alliance therefore congratulates and commends our six honorees for their exceptional service to the party and to the community of St. Maarten. Congress Chairman, Terry J. Peterson, also received a surprise Award of Excellence from the Congress Committee for executing a very successful congress and in recognition of his continuous hard work and dedication to St. Maarten.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- The public prosecutor has released Alex Holder, the reporter who was arrested over a week ago on theft charges. Holder was released late on Monday afternoon after spending about ten days in the Philipsburg holding cells.

Prosecutor Rienk Mud said Holder was given a conditional dismissal since he is a first time offender. Mud said the suspect must repay the victim by January 1 2010 if not he would have to face prosecution. Holder was must also do 100 hours of community service Mud said.

Alex Holder was accused of stealing over $5,000.00 from his girlfriend. The young woman filed a complaint against Holder after fight broke out between them about two weeks ago. It is understood that Holder confessed to taking his girlfriend’s money from her bank account. Details on how the alleged theft took place were not released.

 

 

 

Philipsburg: --- The special armed robbery unit of the police department has arrested four persons who are suspected to be committing several armed robberies on the island. In a police press release Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the Special Armed Robbery Unit has reported at least six armed robberies between November 12 to November 16. Henson said the robberies were committed by two or three persons who are armed with guns, such as a revolver, a pistol, or a shotgun.

In some cases the robbers will cover their faces and in other cases they would not cover their faces. They will threaten their victims with their firearms and if necessary use any amount force to achieve their goal. Their victims will be robbed of their jewelry, monies, laptops, cellular phones, and other valuables. After committing their act they would flee the scene mostly a motor vehicle.

The Special Robbery Unit is also reporting that in connection with the investigation four persons have been arrested and remain in custody for questioning. More arrests are expected in these ongoing investigations.

Armed robbers strike in broad daylight.

In the meantime, on Tuesday November 17th between 09.30 a.m. and 10.10 a.m. a business place on the Billy Folly Road and Supermarket Located on the Union road were robbed by armed bandits.

During these two robberies money was taken from the establishment says police spokesman Ricardo Henson. The robbers after committing their act fled the scene in an unknown vehicle. It is to early in the investigation to determine if the two robberies were committed been committed by the same robbers, however their are indications that this might be possible. The Special Robbery Unit is busy investigating.

Four Armed men threatened businessman.

In an unrelated incident at approximately 12:10 pm on Tuesday November 17 several police patrols were sent to the Plantation Tourbus Company on the Welgelegen Road, where according to information, four armed men had entered the building at the same time showing their weapons and demanding the owners of the establishment the sign falsified documents. These documents would be used to allow them to collect monies on the French side. The owners of the establishment refused to sign any documents and unknowingly to the men notified the police. When these men noticed that they could not intimidate the owners and realized the police had been notified, they jumped into an awaiting car and fled the scene.

The Detective Department is investigating this case.

The Police Department is also reminding the public to make use of the “tipline’ number 9300 to provide the police with quality information.

 

 

Philipsburg:---Former employee of the Today Newspaper Alex Holder who was arrested last week and released on Monday this week has sent a detail press release explaining the circumstances of his arrest. Holder also included the decision taken by the management of the Today Newspaper who issued a dismissal letter to him. Below is the full text of the press release.

 

Around 4:00pm on November 6, 2009, I –Alex Holder, was invited to the Philipsburg Police Station for question regarding a complaint filed by my former fiancé Karelien de Palm on my (unlawful) use of her credit cards.

During my initial interview with law enforcement, I admitted using the cards to take care of personal business. During the lone interview of my pre-trial detention, I provided the investigating officers with a detailed statement, which supplied a relatively accurate account of my actions with the cards in question.

For the sake of clarity, I would reiterate.

I initially used the card sometime in July to clear up outstanding debts for my college tuition. At that time, I was wrapping up my Master of Arts degree in Communications, which I graduated Magma Cum Lad. I also still had some outstanding payments on my Bachelor of Arts degree in English, which was completed in 2007 with the same institution. These degree programs were perused through an online-accredited university.

I admitted to police that I failed to consult with the owner of the cards prior to me using them. In my defense I told the officers and the prosecution that I did not think (at the time) it would matter to her, considering I used the money for my education which according to me would ultimately serve to improve the quality of life for myself, her and our (at the time) unborn son. I did however tell her about it at a later date.

Added to that, the cards were also used for other matters. All the monies spent totalled about NAf. 5,000.

Although she was not made fully aware of all that her cards financed we had agreed that I would repay the monies in time, which she knew would not be overnight. The last conversation of this nature was a mere week prior to the baptism of our son on November 1.

 

DISMISSED

 

I am no longer the Editor of the Today Newspaper. I lost my position on November 10 last. My dismissal came two days after I sought an advance from my employer to clear the outstanding debts. My employer said he would only consider advancing me the cash in the event that it would somehow have an effect on my prosecution.

I did not receive that advance but rather a dismissal letter two days later. The grounds for my dismissal were (according to the letter) based on the fact that I was unable to execute my duties as Editor, my unprofessional approach towards my job, and my personal use of office property, namely a cable box.

The letter, signed by Managing Editor Hilbert Harr, says, “Today Publishing has lost all trust and confidence in you as an employee. This warrants your immediate dismissal.”

Another aspect of my dismissal was based on the fact that I my statement to police was being considered a confession. “Your criminal offence has become a fact for which a conviction is highly likely,” the letter says.

I was never given the option to explain my position with my employer and efforts will be made via the labor department to determine whether my dismissal was contractually binding.

 

RELEASED

On November 16, the Prosecutor’s Office decided on a conditional dismissal of the charges against me. The reason for their decision was not made explicitly clear in their notice.

Nonetheless, all criminal proceedings against me has ceased on the grounds that I repay the outstanding sum within a specified time and engage in community service. I was released sometime after 3:00pm on November 17.

 

LOGICS

 

KD and I have been in a relationship for the past eighteen months. During this time we have lived together, have given birth to a beautiful son (Alex Holder Jr.) and have made plans (having executed some), all geared towards to the eventual goal of settling in marriage.

During this time, we have both made sacrifices for each other, some of which include me financing renovation works to her home through the procurement of a loan, among others.

This loan, I must add, is still being paid by me, although we no longer share a roof.

Considering the 15-year age difference between my person and my former fiancé, building that ideal life was not always as easy as we had hoped. Our differences often collided and in several instances ended in my moving out. Some of these conflicts would see the intervention of her brother, who also shared the home with us. His last intervention saw me being beaten in the face in the early morning hours of November 2 last. My police report on the matter is what I believe lead to my subsequent arrest and 11-day detention.

 

Regarding the position with my son, I was not allowed to see him during the week prior to my detention, nor since.

I am not sure whether I would be perusing a case with the court of guardianship on to see joint, custody or whether we as parents would be able to reach an agreement as adults before it gets to that stage.

 

Press Release by Alex Holder

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba in the presence of the island’s Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and leader of Government William Marlin issued the first two Brooks Tower permits on Wednesday. The two recipients Yles St. Come and Du Qun Wu were the first two persons in the Netherlands Antilles to receive their permits since the project launched some two weeks ago. St. Come has been residing on St. Maarten some 22 years now, while Wu 12 years.

Minister Jacoba told members of the media that some 910 persons applied for the Brooks Tower Permits and already the justice department has approved 36 of them. She made clear that the processing of the other applicants is still ongoing. Minister Jacoba also called on the undocumented residents to register for the Brooks Tower permit, which would enable them to regulate their status on the island. Jacoba said implementing the Brooks Tower Accord, which was signed in 2007, is the largest project she has executed in her life and that many persons felt that this was a trap and not a reality.

The Minister said by presenting these two permits in a symbolic way should encourage those persons that doubtful about the program to register. The Brooks Tower permits will be valid until November 3 2010. In the case of Wu, she said she was informed that the Chippie Café employee had approached other Ministers and commissioners in the hope of legalizing her status to no avail. Minister Jacoba said she was honored to be the one to grant Wu her documents, which would give her, the opportunity to travel back to her country of origin to obtain all the necessary documents to apply for her documents through the regular channel. As for St. Come, he too can walk free but urged him that he needed to follow the right procedures so he can legalize himself. Jacoba said receipts of the Brooks Tower permits must submit all their documents for residency permits at least four months prior to November 3 2010. “having the BT permits has opened the doors for both of you to document yourselves on the island once and for all. I do not want to see recipients of the BT permits end up being illegal again”. Jacoba told St. Come and Wu.

Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards in address said Wu served several of the elected and law enforcement at the Chippie Café, thus he congratulated both recipients of the BT permits.

Richards said the BT process is a first but serious step, which would allow persons residing on St. Maarten illegally in a safer position. Richards also urged the recipients of the BT permits to get their documentation ready so that they can remain on St. Maarten. He said all persons applying for residency permits would have to provide all the necessary documents, which is based on the admittance and expulsion law. Richards called on all persons residing on St. Maarten illegally to follow the footsteps of Wu and St. Come who applied for the BT and today have them in their hands.

In the meantime, Leader of Government William Marlin in his remarks thanked the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba who recently took office and ran off with the Brooks Tower by making a firm commitment to execute the Brooks Tower Accord.

Marlin said when they first discussed this matter the Minister had made clear that the process had to be simplified.

Marlin also called on the recipients of the BT permits to do what is necessary to obtain their residency permits in the future. Marlin like the other two speakers made clear that the BT permits are not permanent documents. Marlin said St. Come has been living on St. Maarten for 22 years and he was not able to obtain a doctor’s card and neither can he benefit from pension even though he has been working on the island. “having this permit would give him the opportunity to process his documents.” Marlin said government has decided to put several controllers in place that would be checking the work places to make sure they do not have 20,000 undocumented persons in the next two or three years. These controllers would be appointed early next year Marlin said these controllers would make sure the labour laws are upheld and that employers must adhere to the laws of St. Maarten. He made clear that the BTA is an opportunity for illegal immigrants to regulate their status. He also applauded the Minister for showcasing the procedure, which is aimed at showing those naysayers that this is indeed for real. Marlin called on the two recipients of the BT to encourage others who were in the same “boat or seat as them to make use of this opportunity. Marlin also applauded those working on the BT process he said this would help St. Maarten and most importantly the recipients who would not have to hide under a bus or jump over a wall when they see police in the future.

 

 

A delegation from the Oranje Fonds escorted by local rep. Mr. Mathias Voges, paid a courtesy visit to Lt. Governor Richards.

St. Maarten students in Curacao celebrated St. Maarten’s day in style this year once again. On the 11th students decorated the recreational hall of the Campus at the University of the Netherlands Antilles (UNA) and turned it into an exhibition of St. Maarten culture. The exhibition included pictures, posters, flags and information about the island.

From 7-10am, there was a special breakfast menu in honor of St. Maarten’s day which everyone on Campus was invited to attend. A St. Maarten’s day could not be celebrated without some Johnny cakes which everyone enjoyed. Other co-habitants of the Campus and UNA employees wished students well on their day and found interest in the exhibition.

Later on that day, students came together to watch the St. Maarten day program that was being aired on Tele Curacao. Although far from home, it did give a nice feeling of togetherness.

The weekend was filled with excitement when a larger group of students in Curacao organized a St. Maarten day celebration held at Frater Aurelio S.B.O (FAMBO) on Saturday the 14th, consisting of an exhibition of St. Maarten culture, dance, singing, poetry and acting. Guests were offered local food and drinks such as peas and rice, chicken, Johnny cake, salt fish and Guavaberry. The celebration closed with an after party which was very much enjoyed by the young people.

Celebrating St. Maarten’s day is something the students strive to do every year.

 

 

Six Physicians Available to Administer H1N1 Vaccine Starting Monday, November 23 for Risk Groups Only.

Persons who fall under the risk groups are: pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be vaccinated; persons with chronic conditions e.g. with pulmonary disease; with cardiac disease; after a recent bone marrow transplant; with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication; with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication; with chronic kidney disease/failure; with HIV-infection; persons 60 years and older; health care workers and health care workers (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices); and home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality.

Clinics administering the H1N1 Vaccine for their patients in the identified risk groups are:

Monday, November 23 to Friday, November 27

- Dr. Mercuur Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 1.00pm)

- Bush Road Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 2.00pm)

- Dr. Deketh Clinic (Monday to Friday, 2.00pm to 3.00pm)

- Simpson Bay Medical Clinic, Dr. Tjaden & Datema Clinic (Wednesday & Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

- Dr. Ruth Douglas (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 7.30am to 9.30am)

- Union Road Clinic of Dr. Van Osch (Wednesday, Thursday 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

Other family physicians will be added to the list and this information will be announced once it has been received.

For further information, contact Preventative Health Dept. at 542-3003 or 542-3553.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Three political parties on St. Maarten submitted their lists of eleven candidates each on Monday to contest the January 2010 parliamentary elections. The first party to submit their list was the Peoples Progressive Party headed by former island council lady Gracita Arrindell. Arrindell with members of her slate presented their list shortly after 11 am. On the list, there are several new faces while it is obvious that the number 2 candidate that ran on the PPA list in 2007 Johan Janchi Leonard was not behind her. Also not seen was Christopher Emanuel, both persons this media house published earlier was going to be part of the green party.

At a press conference held at the home of the Arrindell’s in St. Peters, Arrindell told reporters that the PPA intend to inform the people along the way if elected. She said the intention of the PPA is to conduct its campaign in the homes of the people since they believe that the people need to understand their future is now. Arrindell said it is their belief that the process of status change belongs in the homes of the people and not in the fancy offices.

“We believe it is important for the People’s Progressive Alliance, the PPA, to participate in the January 22nd 2010 elections for 2 key reasons; First. The elections are legally prescribed to be held. Political parties have an obligation to participate in all elections and not to choose elections. Almost a decade ago, the people of Sint Maarten were promised a new constitutional status. As we are painfully aware, this did not happen.”

Secondly, The PPA needs to be a part of turning off the lights of the Netherlands Antilles to ensure it is done correctly and in the best interests of the people of St Maarten. The people of St Maarten voted in June 23rd in a referendum to secure a new constitutional status similar to Aruba almost 10 years ago, and our people need to understand that this is the time to influence their future.

Those that are on the PPA slate are as follows:-

1.Gracita Arrindell

2.Dr. Ruth Douglass,

3.Mr. Les Brown,

4.Mr. Franklin Patrick,

5.Ms. Suzanne ‘Suzy’ Velasques,

6.Ms. Jennifer Richardson,

7.Ms Anique Liu,

8.Mr. Kenneth Provacia,

9.Ms Shaira Bommel,

10.Mr.Othmar Henrietta, and

11.Mr. Herbert ‘Prince’ Martina.

While the Democratic Party headed by Island Council lady Sarah Wescot Williams submitted their list just after 3:30 pm. The slate of the Democratic Party now has five new faces and Maria Buncamper Molanus a long time DP member and island council lady was nowhere in sight. Asked about that leader of the party said the party took a decision not to have Buncamper Molanus on the list, but the island council lady she said still remains a strong supporter of the DP.

Members and supporters of the Democratic Party marched to the Government Administration Building decked in red tee shirts. It was clear that the DP supporters were behind their leader as they said that they are willing to “die for Sarah”.

 

On the slate are the following members

 

1. Sarah Wescot Williams

2. Erno Labega

3. Roy Marlin

4. Perry Geerlings

5. Petrus Leroy De Weever

6. Steven Carty

7. Steward Johnson

8. Carlyle Rogers

9. Marinka Gumbs

10. Jeffry Richardson

11. 11. Richelda Emanuel

The five new faces are Perry Geerlings, Steven Carty, Carlyle Rogers, Marinka Gumbs and Richelda Emanuel

Soon after the DP party submitted their list, former member of the party commissioner Theo Heyliger made sure he joined the group as they celebrate. Heyliger was presented with a red tee shirt, as he made sure he congratulated each member on the slate.

The National Alliance was the last party to submit their slate; submitting the list was Henrietta Doran York. Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin said they presented a full slate and is looking to capture all three seats, two of which they are currently occupying. Marlin said the National Alliance started the dismantling process and they would like to complete it. He made clear that the people gave them a mandate and they have kept it thus far. Marlin said his party did not fall apart instead; it was those that held power in the local government that fell apart causing them to take over.

Marlin said that ever since they took over power locally they were caught up doing a lot of unfinished work that the former government left behind.

After the National Alliance submitted their slate Heyliger made sure, he went among the candidates and congratulated them all.

Heyliger who have been in politics for a number of years now only contested the federal elections once. The election to be held in January 2010 is the last election scheduled to take place in the Netherlands Antilles.

 

On the National Alliance Slate are the following candidates;

 

1. William Marin

2. Frans Richardson

3. George Pantophlet

4. Rodolphe Samuel

5. Henrietta Doran York

6. Patrick Illidge

7. Roland Duncan

8. Silveria Jacobs

9. Engel Louis

10. Terry Peterson

11. Hyacinth Richardson

 

 

Philipsburg; ---On Tuesday November 24 at approximately 12.45 p.m. several police patrols, members of the 0-tolerance team and detectives were directed to Aruba Drive for an armed robbery. The first police patrol on the scene approached the house in question and upon entering, the home was met by a masked suspect, who was armed with a handgun and in a threatening manner aimed it at the patrol.

The patrol took cover and informed the Central Police Dispatch of what was going on and called immediately for back up. This suspect however fled the home through a door leading from the living room. He jumped the fence at back the house and fled through the hills in the direction of Saunders. A description of the suspect was given through to the other patrols that started an intense search in the neighboring area. In the Saunders area, a man fitting the description of the suspect was spotted by the patrols. When the man noticed that, he was approached by police he took-off running. This man was summoned by the police to stop; however, he did not comply with orders of the officers and continued fleeing from police.

Two other police patrols joined in the chase to apprehend this suspect and in the course of the chase shots were fired, one of which struck the suspect in his right shoulder. The chase ended on the Gladiola road. The suspect with initials R.S. from Jamaica was treated on the spot by paramedics and then transported to the St Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. At the hospital, the suspect was treated for his wound and is presently in a stable condition. He was also admitted for observation. At the crime scene in Aruba Drive where the armed robbery took place, the patrol encountered the housemaid who was tied up by the suspect. The patrols later found the owner of the house who was hidden in a bedroom. The Special Robbery Unit is busy with the investigation.

 

 

 

Philipsburg: --- There has been an increase amount of shoplifting as well as pick pocketing reported to the police said police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said these crimes are being committed in certain areas of the island. On Thursday, police managed to arrest two Guyanese nationals who were caught shoplifting in Super Plaza located on Back Street.

Henson said the shoplifters were turned over to the detective department where an investigation is currently ongoing. The police spokesman said the department is currently investigating a number of cases of shoplifting and pick pocketing. Police is also calling on the public to pay close attention when shopping in crowded areas.

These culprits operate mostly in groups. The entire business community should take all preventive measures such as, increasing their security personnel, installing a security system, or checking their security system to make sure it is functional. The Christmas season is here and this is one of the times of the year when these culprits come out to do what they do best.

 

 

On the Dutch half of the island, "tourism has gobbled up the culture, which is now defined by the hotel/casino industry." The French side is overbuilt but has avoided so far the "fast-food joints," casinos, and concentration of duty-free shops.

Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:

"St. Maarten/St. Martin has a split personality. The Dutch side has casinos, fast-food restaurants, cruise-ship docks, and high-rise hotels. It is a typical mass-market tourism disaster. The French side has no casinos, fast-food joints, nor high-rises, but it still has problems, mainly too many hotel rooms and overcrowded beaches. I don't know why the hotel industry and cruise-ship companies can't understand the concept of "carrying capacity." More and more hotel rooms and bigger and bigger ships lead to less and less enjoyment and a diminished destination."

"Dutch St. Maarten is in trouble. St. Martin, the French side of the island, is promising in terms of balancing development with the natural resources. The environmental and ecological quality of Dutch St. Maarten is threatened by overdevelopment. The French side of the island is basically intact."

"The threats to the environment are multiple, mainly on the Dutch part of the island. The strong development of tourism without all the necessary measures to address the environment is provoking damages, many irreversible. A change of mentality in the direction of a sustainable development is necessary, especially with regard to natural resources."

"Beautiful hotels and yet piles of trash and burning of trash. Water supply is an issue here as well. On the Dutch side, a number of hotels are half completed and deserted."

"Contrast Dutch St. Maarten (overcrowded with limited character and way too many cruise passengers) with St. Martin (especially Marigot), which has maintained much of its social and cultural integrity. The Dutch side's outlook is negative; the French side needs to protect what it has."

"This island presents one of the best examples of what islands should avoid in tourism development. Tourism has gobbled up the culture of the island, which now is defined by the hotels, casinos, and other modern developments—not the island's historical, artistic, culinary, or other local heritage. Quality of life is a major consideration for residents as well as visitors. There appears to be widespread interest in making changes."

(National Geographic Traveller)

 

 

Philipsburg:--Two men from Sri Lanka have been sent back to their country after spending more than 6 months on the floor of the holding cells at the local police station in Philipsburg. The two gentlemen were apprehended by RST officers around the 17 of April of this year. It was discovered that the men had no criminal intentions, instead they had planned to travel to Canada, via France and St.Maarten, to file for asylum. (Young Tamil men are subject to serious scrutiny or worse since the Sinhalese Government of Sri Lanka won the war against the Tamil Tigers. A war that lasted for several decades and left many Sri Lankan dead or mutilated)

Instead of releasing the two men or handing them over to immigration, they were left in the holding cells without any legal reason to hold them. It was only after a month in the cells that they were handed over to immigration. That did not mean they were going anywhere. They remained in the same cells. Several months they remained there in the dark of their cells until by sheer coincidence, a local reporter was arrested and had to spend a couple of days in the same cells.

The reporter met a variety of individuals that seemed to be forgotten by authorities among them Tamils, Indians and even a Canadian and US citizen. All were sleeping, together with criminal suspects, on the floor or dirty mattresses for many months. Again stories of rodents and other creeping animals were heard. No sunlight or fresh air for weeks in a row!

After some months the Canadian was set free, as was the American. However the Tamils stayed, nobody came to their rescue. What’s more few people were even aware they were there. The hardworking civil servants at the immigration department were not happy neither with this enduring and increasingly disturbing situation. But the instruction to set them free or repatriate them never seemed to come.

Ironically, shortly before the arrest of the two men, St.Maarten and other islands in the Dutch Caribbean, (that are part of the so called Political Steering Group for Constitutional Change) made an agreement with the Netherlands to intensify their cooperation in the fight against illegal immigration, human smuggling and human trade. The Dutch or the French (for they came from Paris) were never involved however.

When Attorneys Remco M. Stomp and Denicio Brison were notified about the disturbing situation, they took immediate action and filed an appeal at the local courthouse to try to put an end to the inhumane situation.

The appeal was handled on Friday October 19, 2009 at the local courthouse. The judge had the chance to hear the story first hand from the two men and set the date for his verdict for Monday October 26, 2009. In the verdict the judge instructed the authorities to provide him with additional information with regards to the legal motivation to keep the men locked up for so long and set a date for an additional hearing for Friday October 30, 2009. The authorities apparently did not wanted to wait for the judge’s decision and arranged two tickets on the KLM flight to Sri Lanka (via Amsterdam) on Tuesday October 27, 2009.

(Attorney Remko Stomp)

 

Philipsburg: --- Reliable information reaching SMN News indicated that at least two members of the management team of ROB (Public Works) were given the concept report from SOAB. It is understood that the two members who were highlighted in the preliminary report is asked to comment on the findings of the SOAB investigators. The source said the two members of the management team are required to answer questions pertaining to the alleged wrong doings committed by them with the issuance of building permits.

SMN News has learnt that the concept report was given last week and was scheduled to return within one week’s time, but the two members of the management team it is understood requested extra time to fully answer the questions.

In the preliminary report, the SOAB advised the island government to hire an interim manager since the present director and his subordinate is not considered to be fit for the proper management of ROB. So far, the commissioner responsible for Public Works has not taken any action pertaining to the advice and preliminary findings of SOAB.

 

 

GREAT BAY, (GIS) – Preparations are in full swing for the 4th Annual Performance on the Arts, this year a pre-St. Maarten’s Day 50th Anniversary Event, to be carried out by approximately 50 students from six primary schools.

The public will be amused by the talents of the nation’s young people. The project aim is to stimulate national pride amongst the nation’s youth on our quest to becoming a country within the Dutch Kingdom.

The theme for this year’s project is “The Good Ole Days.” Students will enact scenes and events of the ole days. They will be celebrating the life of our forefathers and will bring to the forefront the traditional languages used, the way of life, medicines used for ailments, story-telling, songs and dance.

Entertainment will be provided by the well known Tanny & the Boys. Master of Ceremonies will be Pa Ben and Dorothy Richardson as Ms. Rosa.

The children’s event has been bid the family event of the year. For those who would like to learn about the traditional way of life, the performance on the arts is something that should not be missed. It’s an event for all ages.

The event will take place at the ultra-modern Festival Village on Sunday, November 8, 2009 starting at 5.00pm. Games and food will be on sale.

Participating schools are Leonard Connor School, Rev. John A. Gumbs, Seven Day Adventist School, Ruby Labega, Martin Luther King Jr. School, and the Genevieve de Weever.

This year the schools will be judged and prizes distributed.

 

 

Philipsburg: ---- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has issued a call to all employers who have undocumented workers working for them to assist those workers so that they can comply with the requirements of the Brooks Tower Accord. Minister Jacoba told members of the media on Saturday that so far the team handling the documents for the Brooks Tower permit only saw about two employers who came forward to assist their workers in getting legalized.

The Minister reminded the employers that they would not face any type of sanctions by having undocumented workers during this period, she said this process is a means of helping those people who contributed to society to become legal. Jacoba said even the employers would get up to one year to straighten their paperwork. She said while everyone is saying that they should not deport all the undocumented workers because of the economic crisis, these undocumented people she said must come forward and assist them to legalize their status. “I am urging the employers to assist their illegal workers, assist them by filling out the application forms” said Jacoba.

Minister Jacoba also made clear that while she is hearing that the implementation of the Brooks Tower Accord is a hoax, she said that is far from the case and persons may be able to pick up their BT permit as soon as next week. “Right now I have ordered the Lt. Governors of all the islands to stop all organized controls so that the undocumented can go to the Immigration and Naturalization service and register.” The office she said would not open its doors on November 11 since it is a public holiday but work would continue as normal until December 15th, which is the last day to submit applications for the BT permit.

Minister Jacoba said while this process is not intended for persons who had permits before and was recently turned down, she said she is willing to intervene in these cases, even though these people can appeal the decision. Applicants whose applications were turned down or rejected via the normal procedure can send a petition to the Minister who would then look into their cases. That petition must also be submitted to the office that is handling the BT permits on AT Illidge Road.

Minister Jacoba said she also called on all undocumented workers living on St. Maarten to come out an register for the BT permit, she said this is an opportunity for them to become legal.

Jacoba said on November 3 there were about 400 to 500 persons who showed up at the Immigration and Naturalization office to register. “Most of those people just came to get information, since many of them did not fully understand what they needed to do. Since then some changes were made to the process and the team handling the BT saw about 150 to 170 persons per day.” Even though the process is working smoothly many of the persons, seeking to register did not have all that is required to register for the BT permit. Minister Jacoba said while they received 495 persons last week only 134 of them had a complete dossier to request for the BT permit. She said the number are far below their expectations and is urging the undocumented to capitalize on this opportunity now.

Jacoba said because of this they enlisted the help of the various consulates whom they are asking to inform their compatriots they need to have all of the requirements before they can register. On Monday persons, speaking Creole or Patwa would have the opportunity to get speedy assistance since there would be booklets and forms in that language said the Minister. She explained that the lack of the Creole translators has been one of their major hindrances during this past week on all the islands.

The Minister is urging all undocumented persons going to register for the BT permit to make sure they fill out the application forms and to take along all that is required for them to have the BT permits. She said there are no conditions on the BT permit and working permits. Persons that apply for the BT permit can have that permit without the working permit.

Applicants who did not meet the requirements she said are given the opportunity to return with all that is needed. Jacoba said that right now the pre-screening is done at AT Illidge Road while the actual processing of the permits is done at the back office of the Philipsburg Police Station. Jacoba said she promised to assist the undocumented workers since everyone in someway used these people. “Right now I am hearing that people are charging as much as $20 to fill out the forms. This is clear that we are using the undocumented and we have to do things correctly from now by legalizing them.” The Minister said persons who have internet services can also register through the website www.withyourpermission.an that has the forms in four languages.

Junior Minister Ernie Simmons said while they are working hard on getting this registration done they are also revising the procedure on a daily basis based on their daily experiences. He said the motive is to make sure they offer the necessary services to the undocumented workers who are trying to legalize themselves.

Another opportunity the Minister said would be given to the recipients of the BT can also travel to their country to get all necessary documents so they can apply for their regular permits. “When these people get all the documents they need to apply normally they could apply for their permits immediately and not when the permit expired.” Jacoba explained.

Also at the press conference was Senator Rudolph Samuel who also called on the employers and the undocumented to register for the BT permit. Samuel said there is constant talk of having a new status but he when governing they need to know who they are representing. Samuel said no one can govern properly if they do not know where and who are the people and the amount of the population. He said there is also constant talk about legalizing the undocumented, and he felt this is the opportunity and the people need to make use of it. As for those media outlets that are, telling people not to register is rather unfair. He said telling the people not to register is not giving these undocumented a fair chance. Samuel also encouraged the employers to assist their workers to register since being illegal hinders several aspects of the community such as health care, social and education issues.

 

 

MARIGOT— Bandits invaded an electronic store in Bellevue early Saturday morning. The gendarmes reported that thieves entered the store by using force and stole a number hi-fi equipments. The gendarmes have launched an investigation into the robbery.

 

 

 

Leader of Government, Commissioner William Marlin, said he was pleased with the outcome of a meeting he had with Ambassador Hushang Ansary during his recent visit to the island. We discussed a wide range of issues relevant to St. Maarten, the Commissioner said.

The first issue we discussed was the University of St. Martin, that has always been close to the Ambassador’s heart, as one of its founding fathers and patrons over the past 20 years. We discussed the current state of the financial situation of the University and the critical importance of its future role in the development of St. Maarten. For the University of St. Martin to survive, the assistance of the Ambassador was needed now more than ever, the Commissioner of Education said.

Of course the situation of the Mullet Bay was discussed, Commissioner Marlin said further. Marlin said that he told the Ambassador that the Executive Council will be sending a formal letter to Sun Resorts N.V. requesting for the remaining structures on the Mullet Bay property to be demolished as the Government feels that it is not necessary to defer this action until a decision is taken about the future development of the property.

Commissioner Marlin said he hopes this step will be taken before the end of the year.

Among some of the other issues discussed, was the need for housing on the island and the possibilities of participation by the business community in such a project. The leader of Government, who is also responsible for the portfolio of Housing, said he discussed several planned housing projects with the Ambassador, particularly the need for affordable financing. Together we looked at ways and means that private initiative could be helpful, and the Ambassador showed keen interest and desire to be helpful. He expressed the hope that other leaders of the business community will do the same.

 

 

Simpson Bay: --- Police were called to a home in Simpson bay on Tuesday November 10 where they discovered a man identified as Sylvere Ries (37) had committed suicide.

Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in his police report said the victim used a sheet to hang himself. According to the man’s girlfriend, he was depressed and was receiving treatment from a medical doctor. Henson said when police reached the scene they encountered the body on the back porch and he was lying on his back covered with a sheet.

The sheet the victim used to hang himself with was still hanging from the railing on the second floor. On the scene, the detectives spoke to the girlfriend of the victim with initials M.C.D. who stated that the victim was suffering from depression. She further stated that on that day she saw the victim at around 04.30 p.m. at her business in Marigot. The victim left the business to go home. At around 09.30 p.m. when the girlfriend arrived home she found him hanging by his neck that was tied with a sheet. The woman told police she cut the sheet with a scissors to free the victim and laid him on the floor. He was not showing any signs of life. The Forensic Department did their investigation and determined that there were no criminal acts involved.

 

 

Paris/Marigot:--- The amendments of the Loi Organic that was presented by Senator Louis Constant Fleming on Monday in the Senate has been adopted. Information from the senate website reads as follows. SMN News was unable to retrieve the text and the amendments that was adopted by the Senate on Monday.

sur l'ensemble de la proposition de loi organique modifiant le livre III de la sixième partie du code général des collectivités territoriales relatif à Saint-Martin

Résultat du scrutin

 

Nombre de votants : 338

Suffrages exprimés : 210

Majorité des suffrages exprimés : 106

Pour : 188

Contre : 22

 

Le Sénat a adopté (les résultats ci-dessus ont fait l'objet d'une mise au point en séance publique)

Groupe Communiste, Républicain, Citoyen et des Sénateurs du Parti de Gauche (24)

Contre : 22

N'ont pas pris part au vote : 2 - M. Guy Fischer, Président de séance, M. Jean-Luc Mélenchon

Groupe du Rassemblement Démocratique et Social Européen (17)

Pour : 3 - MM. Gilbert Barbier, Daniel Marsin, Aymeri de Montesquiou

Abstentions : 14

Groupe Socialiste (115)

Pour : 1 - M. Jacques Gillot

Abstentions : 114

Groupe Union centriste (29)

Pour : 28

N'a pas pris part au vote : 1 - Mme Nathalie Goulet

Groupe Union pour un Mouvement Populaire (151)

Pour : 150

N'a pas pris part au vote : 1 - M. Gérard Larcher, Président du Sénat

Sénateurs ne figurant sur la liste d'aucun groupe (7)

Pour : 6

N'a pas pris part au vote : 1 - M. Gaston Flosse

 

 

Banco Di Caribe was Thinking [RED], Doing Safe for the month of October, and so were their counter parts on Curacao. In photo one can see the management team of Banco Di Caribe-Curacao in their Think [RED], Do Safe red polo shirts, as a means of showing solidarity to their colleagues here on St. Maarten as they brought awareness about HIV/AIDS.

French Quarter: --- On this Tuesday morning, rain began falling in most areas of St. Martin. French Quarter was also blessed with heavy rain. When that happens our camera lens managed to catch what Impasse Adams Alexandre looks like when rain falls. SMN News was told over two years ago that this road is scheduled to be fixed and that the arrangements were in place over two years ago.

Earlier this year, letters were placed in every letter box on Impasse Adams Alexandre notifying the residents that repairs would begin on this road. The letter came from S.S.M.B.T.P. (Societe Saint Martinoise de Batiment et Travaux Publics).

According to the letter stated that they were going to begin building a concrete road on Impasse Adams Alexandre and Rue des Arrindells as of June 25 which would take a maximum of two months.

In fact workers graded the road very low that as soon as rainfall there is extreme flooding. According to one of the employees that graded the road is that they had to grade the road so that they can put in the necessary materials before building the concrete road. About three days after the grading of the road all work on Impasse Adams Alexandre stopped for unknown reason.

SMN News contacted the company as well as the community council of French Quarter expressing our concerns and the danger residents of this street faces during heavy rain. One of those residents happens to be a young man that is handicapped.

Today we have decided to pose some more questions on this website so that those who have the answers as why the work on Impasse Adams Alexandre was stopped can post them here.

One, information we want to share with you is that President Frantz Gumbs visited SMN News reporter at her home prior to him being elected president in 2008 and he said back then that this road was going to be his priority. We are also inviting the president to tell us if Impasse Adams Alexandre remains his priority or if that has changed.
Unfortunately SMN News is blacklisted from the Collectivity of Saint Martin, so we are not able to ask the President these questions.

 

 

Please readers if you have answers to the following questions please post them. (Please keep the comments clean and constructive).

 

1. Did someone stop the work that was being carried out on Impasse Alexandre, if so who and why?

2. Would there be proper drainage when and if this road is ever fixed?

3. Would water pipes be installed so that the residents living on Impasse Adams Alexandre can finally get city water?

4. Do you know if the residents of Impasse Adams Alexandre are taxpayers and do they pay their taxes?

5. Do the residents of Impasse Adams Alexandre benefit from the suppression of the tax de la fortune or are they middle class people that are burdened with tax that is not benefitting them?

 

 

Philipsburg: ---- Police Inspectors Carlton Phillips and Carlyle Rogers receive their charter for serving the police force of the Netherlands Antilles for 35 years and 25 years respectfully. The ceremony took place in the conference room at the Philipsburg Police Station and carried out by the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba. During her speech at the ceremony the minister expressed her gratitude to the officers for their hard work and dedication they have demonstrated during the many years of service.

She also wished them much success as they continue their carrier in the police force and encouraged them to continue being inspiring role models. Also at this ceremony were the State Secretary Ernie Simmons, Lt. Goveror Franklin Richards, leader of Government William Marlin, Acting Chief of Police Commissioner Ademar Doran,Human Resource Manager Lourdes Lake, representatives of the N.A.P.B. (Police Union) and A.B.V.O. along with other members of the local police force.

Chief Inspector Hildo Martina who has celebrated 40 years of service and Sergeant F. Pinto who has also celebrated 25 years of service were not on hand to receive their charter.

 

 

French Quarter:--- After posting an article with photographs and questions surrounding the road repairs on Adams Alexandre, SMN News managed to get some answers to most of the questions we asked from the Director of S.S.M.B.T.P. (Societe Saint Martinoise de Batiment et Travaux Publics) Guy Regent.

On the scene on Wednesday, Regent said the Collectivity of Saint Martin stopped the road works, which began on June 25 on Rue des Arrindell and Impasse Adams Alexandre. Regent explained when they began working on these roads earlier this year they noticed that on Rue Arrindell and Impasse Adams Alexandre there was no drainage, no telephone lines, no portable water lines, neither was there any sewage lines on these roads. Regent said he immediately notified the COM of his findings so that they can take a decision on how they should proceed. “We submitted a dossier to add these lines prior to building the road, but only now we got a response from the COM” Regent explained.

Regent further explained that only recently the COM gave S.S.M.B.T.P instructions on how to continue the road works. He said they were ordered to put in drainage on Rue Arrindell since the rainwater would run into people’s yard when it rain and several homes in the immediate neighborhood would flood out. “Because of the flooding and water going on other people’s property the COM made drainage a priority on that road”.

Rue Arrindell would not get telephone, water, and sewage lines since the COM is saying this was not on their budget and they are facing financial constraints. As for Impasse Adams Alexandre the company was ordered to put in telephone lines and to build the road in such a way that excess water would run down to the main road where a basin would be installed. Asked if this technique would work Regent said they would try to build the road with a “V” shape so the water would run down the middle. He further explained that their intention was to build a flat road with drainage and irrigation to the side but the COM scrapped that plan.

“I am shocked with the decisions taken by the Collectivity because they could have profited and put in water lines which would bring in much more revenues than phone lines. Nowadays everybody has a cellular phone and there is phone lines in this area but no water line.” Says Regent.

He said the COM told them they would find another solution for water lines in the future, for these roads but no mention was made about how the COM intends to deal with the sewage situation. Regent could not say if they would have to break these roads in the future to install the water lines when the monies become available.

 

 

The Rotary Club of St.Maarten co-ordinated the second annual food distribution to project for those who less fortunate in our community. As a result of the overwhelming

response the club decided to make this an annual event and to schedule delivery on 11 November, St. Maarten's Day.

There were a total of 120 food hampers prepared this year. The hampers included non perishable food items such as rice, flour, milk, sugar,

mixed vegetables, sausage, beans and mac and cheese. There are children and families who continually deal with food insecurity and

the Bishop Ellis Foundation has made a significant difference in their lives. As such, they were given 50 food hampers. The balance, 70

hampers were distributed between the Helping Hands Foundation, the White & Yellow Cross, and the Haitian Church Community.

 

 

Philipsburg: ---Employees of Bobby’s Marina completed on Friday November 20 a three-hour workshop on productivity in the workplace. The workshop, which was held at the WICSU/PSU headquarters, attracted twenty-one employees from every department of the marina/boatyard, which has branches in Philipsburg and in Simpsonbay.

The workshop had the dual purpose of identifying the factors that contribute to low productivity at Bobby’s Marina and suggesting ways of reducing them, and to impart techniques of good work ethics.

In addition to pointing out pitfalls and attitudes that could result in low productivity, workshop facilitator Ms Joy Arnell of the Department of Social Welfare skillfully led the workers in role-plays of various scenarios, evaluations of situations and in offering possible solutions.

The workshop was organized by WICSU/PSU in keeping with its aim of doing all it can in helping its members to constantly improve and make themselves more marketable. Financing for the workshop was provided by Bobby’s Marina.

At the start of the workshop, WICSU/PSU President William Reed commended the workers of Bobby’s Marina for making use of the opportunity of equipping themselves to be better employees. He also expressed gratitude and commendations to Ms Arnell for facilitating the training, and the Management of Bobby’s Marina for continuing to support the union’s education fund.

 

 

GREAT BAY– The family physician clinic of Dr. Spencer is available Wednesday to administer pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine to risk groups associated with that clinic from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

The process of administering the pandemic influenza A (H1N1) vaccine started on Monday, November 23 for high-risk groups.

Persons who fall under the identified risk groups are asked to visit their family physicians at the following clinics as of the specified days and times:

- Dr. Mercuur Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 1.00pm);

- Bush Road Clinic (Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 2.00pm);

- Dr. Deketh Clinic (Monday to Friday, 2.00pm to 3.00pm)

- Dr. Ruth Douglas (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 7.30am to 9.30am)

- Union Road Clinic of Dr. Van Osch (Wednesday, Thursday 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

- Simpson Bay Medical Clinic of Dr. Tjaden and Dr. Datema (Wednesday and Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm)

- Dr. Spencer Clinic (Wednesday, 2.00pm to 4.00pm).

Persons who should visit the aforementioned physicians are those who fall under the high-risk group and who are clients of the aforementioned clinics. Other family physicians will be added to the list and this information will be announced once it has been compiled.

According to guidelines from the Netherlands Antilles Influenza A (H1N1) Protocol, all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards – will be vaccinated.

Other persons who form part of the risk group that should get vaccinated are:

• Persons with chronic conditions e.g. with pulmonary disease; with cardiac disease; with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication; with chronic kidney disease/failure; after a recent bone marrow transplant; with HIV-infection.

• Persons with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;

• 60 years and older.

Health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups mentioned above (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics, and general practitioner/specialist practices) should also get vaccinated.

Home caregivers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to pandemic influenza A (H1N1) should also be vaccinated.

For persons who do not fall within the identified risk groups, you are advised to continue with implementing preventive measures (maintain high standards of hygiene), staying healthy and keeping a safe distance from persons with a flu-like illness.

 

 

Marigot: --- An anonymous letter was sent to Senator Louis Constant Fleming and President Frantz Gumbs last week by someone who calls themselves St. Martin Angel of Death.

In the letters, both the Senator and President were told that they did not attend the funeral of Rigobert Bertrand Maurice (20), who was slain on the night of September 24 2009 in the vicinity of the Collectivity of St. Martin.

According to well-placed sources, the writer of the letters wants the Collectivity of Saint Martin to pay some Euros 150,000 as compensation to the family of Rigobert Bertrand Maurice, while the president must clean up around the COM.

The writer states in the two-page letter that there is no type of loitering or drug smoking around the Government Administration Building on the Dutch side and as such, the President of the COM must clean up around the Collectivity, Sandy-Ground and Low Town St. James. The letter writer is demanding that all scooters be taken off the streets of St. Martin. He gave the president a deadline, which ended on November 13. The writer made clear that they once lived next to the COM and they know what takes place there, the letter continued to state that the writer has nothing to lose and they would shoot a lot of people before committing suicide.

A second letter was sent to the COM on Wednesday this time in a pizza box SMN News learnt the contents remain the same, which includes the photograph of a high-powered rifle with the words “this is the baby that would do the job.”

It is understood that the writers of these letters also included two articles that was published on this website regarding the killing of Rigobert Bertrand Maurice.

On both occasion copies of the letters were sent to Vice Prosecutor Jacques Louvier and the Captain of the Gendarmerie.

SMN News also learnt that President Frantz Gumbs and Senator Fleming have filed an official complaint with the gendarmerie on Wednesday. Sources say the gendarmes also questioned Senator Louis Constant Fleming on Wednesday since he too has been threatened.

In an invited comment, Senator Fleming confirmed receipt of the letters, which he said, contained some serious death threats. He also confirmed that the person who is behind the letter said they are going to shoot a number of people before committing suicide. Fleming said the writer of the letter wants the compensation to be paid to relatives of the late Rigobert Bertrand Maurice.

About a year ago SMN News received an email from the St. Martin Angel of Death who said they were an association formed in French Quarter. In that, email threats were made against the prosecutor, the gendarmes and those elected.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- The Special Robbery Unit has reported that they are making progress with regards to the ongoing armed robbery investigations. The recently arrested suspects have been cooperating and have admitted to committing numerous other armed robberies. The investigations into the cases are continuing.

The Special Robbery unit has also reported that a third suspect in the armed robberies at the St Dominic School and Ruby Labega School has been arrested. The suspect will remain custody for further investigation.

 

 

SIMPSON BAY – Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation Managing Director Russell Voges says that the beautification and upgrading works around the Simpson Bay Bridge are progressing according to schedule.

Works currently being carried out are the installation of new guard rails and the trenching for street light cables. Ground works also include the installation of curbs enclosing the road and walkways.

The walkways for pedestrians will be constructed from red paving stones and this is scheduled to start in the week of November 30.

The milling and asphalt works are also scheduled for the week of November 30 and these activities will take place during the evening hours when there is less vehicular traffic.

The civil works are on schedule to be completed by December 11 just in time for the start of the 2009/10 tourism season. Beautification lights won’t be ready for installation by this date and are scheduled to be installed in January 2010.

The civil activities are being executed by Windward Roads Infrastructure while supervision is being carried out by Independent Consulting Engineers (ICE). The Public Works Department is in charge of quality assurance while HISMAR NV coordinates the civil works project for the Lagoon Authority.

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to pay extra attention while crossing the bridge during these construction activities.

Drivers are requested to slow down and observe the traffic signs in the construction area.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority would like to thank the public and mariners for their cooperation to date and apologizes for any inconvenience caused by these improvement works and activities.

 

Philipsburg:--- While the executive council continues to drag its feet with dealing with the final report submitted by the SOAB on the ROB department the island council of St. Maarten still has to address some of the key recommendations given in the report. So far, members of the island council have not requested the report SMN News learnt, while the people of St. Maarten have the right to know what is in the report, it remains concealed thus far. The people of this island ought to know what would be some of the consequences the report would have on their island.

SMN News has learnt that Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards has reserved his rights to send the report over to the prosecutor’s office sometime this week. It is further understood that Richards made clear during the executive council meeting last week Tuesday that members of the executive council should deal with the report if not someone else would deal with it for St. Maarten.

The source said that the Governor informed members of the executive council that this report would affect the obtaining of country status if it is not dealt with. In an invited comment, Prosecutor Rienk Mud said Richards has promised to send to the report to them but they have not received it yet.

The investigators outlined several aspects of wrong doings in this report mainly with the issuance of building permits. In the preliminary report, which was submitted some months ago, they suggested that the executive council hire an interim manager to replace head of the department Joseph Dollison, but so far, the commissioner of ROB (Public Works) Theo Heyliger has not followed any of the advice given by SOAB.

Sources say Heyliger was waiting on the final report to avoid being taken to court by the employees at ROB but recently the commissioner is saying that the investigators focused on certain buildings that were discussed in the island council and they also concluded that there are not sufficient people working for the department. SMN News learnt that the if the rules are strengthened based on the recommendations given by SOAB then every applicant of building permits would be affected.

The SOAB had suggested that there be re-organization in the department. SOAB specifically said the executive council should hire an interim manager who never worked at ROB, this person was supposed to put order in the house.

The SOAB suggested that an inquiry be done on domain affairs to determine how domain land are being distributed, so far that inquiry has not taken place. They also suggest that some internal control be done at the department, which would guarantee that procedures are followed. SOAB also suggest that the executive council should outline all its rules and regulations so that there should be no room for managerial interpretations, while the executive council should make sure that their rules and regulations are followed without exceptions.

SMN News learnt that leader of Government William Marlin met with Commissioner Theo Heyliger on Thursday where he spoke frankly regarding the SOAB report. The source said Marlin already indicated to Heyliger that he has no problem being in opposition and that he Heyliger should deal with the report immediately, SMN News learnt that an extraordinary executive council meeting was also called on Thursday to deal with the SOAB report as well as with the budget.

SMN News was reliably informed that the only person who stands to lose at Public Works is the Director Joseph Dollison. It is further understood that Dollison has already cleaned up his desk as he is planning to go on early retirement but procedures still has to be followed.

 

 

French Quarter: --- The winner of the Thick and Curvy Queen pageant that was held on October 24 at Celebration Palace said she is still waiting to get the gifts that were promised to the contestants. Natasha Lake an assistant nurse by profession said she always wanted to be part of a queen show and when she saw the thick and curvy pageant promotion, she entered the contest.

Lake said she spent $3694.75 to fully participate in the show and to date she cannot get her prize money which is supposed to be $5000 cash including other prizes. Natasha Lake said she won the queen prize ($5000), best cocktail wear (lunch at a restaurant), best bed night wear (weekend stay at a hotel), best eveningwear (dinner at a luxurious restaurant with limousine service), contestant that sells the most tickets would receive a laptop, photogenic (will receive a digital camera), and popularity (would receive a flat screen television. Lake said she sold 60 tickets for the show and thus she was the one who won the prize for the most ticket sale, but to date all she has is the crown and the trophies.

Lake said she waited for days to see if the sponsors would call her to pick up her gifts but they never did because shortly before the line up the promoter David Williams announced that the first prize winner would not get the promised $5000, instead they would only receive $2000 since they did not make enough monies to cover the expenses and the prize monies. Lake said she made contact with Winifred Alexander another promoter of the show on several occasions and was told they have the prizes but not the $5000. She said the promoter told her they were to going to see when they could get all the participants together and a presentation would be made, but to date that did not happen. She said she even went to the police to file a complaint and the police also called the promoters but nothing has changed. “they kept saying they have the prizes but they don’t have the money, the police even asked them why they are the ones with the prizes and not the winner”. Lake explained.

Lake explained that she asked the promoters if they had the monies they were offering and was told the money has been guaranteed. The young woman said she worked hard and even spent her monies to make sure she was fully ready, with this she said she won the first prize and was crowned queen of the Miss Thick and Curvy Pageant. Lake said on that night a few things happened which to date could not be explained. The first time contestant said she learnt that the promoter David Williams was also the chaperone for one of the contestants and he was even leaking out information to the contestants. She said on the night of the show she asked Williams if he was the chaperone for one of the contestants and he denied everything. She further explained that when the girl (contestant) arrived at the location David and her had an argument and the girl exposed what Williams was allegedly doing to the contestants. “I was told that my specialty would be belly dancing and he David told the other contestants they had to come with something better.” Lake said when she heard this she was shocked because the only persons that knew what she was working on were the promoters.

In an invited comment, David Williams said that their main sponsor TELEM did not live up to their promises, which is the first prize money. Williams said they did not make enough money to give the contestants what was originally promised to them since they had expenses. He said they have all the other prizes except the full $5000. Williams said all his other contestants received their prizes and the only person who rejected what he offered was Lake. Williams said he has a contract with the contestants, which stated that the prize money was subject to change. He said while the contract stated all the rules and what are the expectations of the contestants there is no fix amount of money. He said it is clear in the contract that the prize would change due the contestant participation of the sale of tickets. Williams said Lake could go as far as she wanted with this matter because she would not get that money. He said they made it clear on the week of the show that they were not going to live up to the $5000 due to the pull out from TELEM “TELEM did not even give us the voting code for the show” Williams said.

He said they told the contestants that the winner would get $2000, first runner up would receive $1000, while the third runner up would get $500.

He said that from the inception he told the contestants that he was not sure if TELEM would give them the prize money. Williams said the other contestants received their prizes and the only contestant who refused to accept what they have for them was Lake.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba requested that all immigration controls be put on hold until the end of the registration process of the Brooks Tower Accord. Tiara Hasselhoef told reporters on Wednesday that even though over 400 persons showed up at the Immigration and Naturalization office on Tuesday they were people who are skeptical of registering thinking that the process is just another hoax and the information provided maybe used against them. Due to this, the Minister she said sent a letter to all Lt. Governors informing them that they should not conduct organized immigration control for now.

Hasselhoef said of the 400+ persons who visited the office on Tuesday only 18 of them were qualified for the Brooks Tower Accord. Hasselhoef said several persons went to them requesting information while some of them did not have the required documents to apply for the one-year permit, which will be granted in two weeks time.

Hassehoef said they managed to structure the process on Tuesday, by sending away persons who did not have all their documents in order. She said numbers were given to some 170 persons but only 18 of them were qualified during the first phase of the screening. All applications that are accepted during this registration process will be sent to the advisors who would determine if the applicants qualified to receive the special residency permit.

Those persons who contacted the office on Tuesday and did not have the required documents were given a checklist and were given the opportunity to get their documents and to check back with the office. Those persons who are going back for the second time to submit documents would not have to join the line to obtain a number since the office is also in possession of the checklist given to each applicant. Hasselhoef made clear that after the six weeks process the justice ministry would not be tolerating illegal immigrants on the islands; instead, the controls would become more aggressive. She said this process is costing the Central government some 1.4 million guilders 700,000 of which are spent on St. Maarten, thus persons residing on St. Maarten illegally should contact them to register and to get an opportunity to legalize their status. When the one-year permit is granted to those qualified, she said these persons can then travel back to their country of origin to get the required documents to apply through the normal procedures.

Persons who do not qualify for the Brooks Tower would have until February 28, 2011 to leave St. Maarten. While the Minister does not consider this period a grace period Hasselhoef said that everyone will be getting a fair chance to leave if they do not meet the requirements. She said every illegal immigrant worked on the islands and they contributed to the economic development on the island they lived. Thus the Minister has taken note of that and would be giving them ample time to pack up and leave.

Hasselhoef confirmed that the Ministry is following the guidelines of the Brooks Tower Accord that was signed on March 2 2007 and that nothing in the policy has changed. Persons whose applications were accepted will be given a receipt to show that they have requested a residency permit under the Brooks Tower Accord.

In the lines on Wednesday were several persons that are working for reputable companies on St. Maarten. SMN News reporter spoke to one family who has been living on St. Maarten since 1992. Speaking on the condition of anonymity the man said he came to St. Maarten in the year 1992 and has been working ever since then with the same construction company. He said the company files for his documents but each year they would submit his documents late. The man said due to that he could not sign for himself. “Right now my documents expired and when I went to submit the renewals I am told I have to go through the Brooks Tower process. I have papers since 1997 but there are gaps in each of them.”

SMN News also spoke to another person who said she worked at a particular company since 1997 to 2005 and today her documents expired and she has to follow the same process as those who never had documents.

Addressing this issue Hasselhoef said persons whose documents expired over four months have to go through the process of the Brooks Tower Accord. She said that there might be people who have to go through the regular process but that would only be determined when they check the applicant’s documents.

 

 

Willemstad:--- A prisoner who has been serving a life sentence has committed suicide at the Bon Futuro Prison on Friday. SMN News learnt the prisoner identified as Dean Hassel killed a police officer over 20 years ago on the island of Saba. It is further understood that the prisoner had filed for clemency that was denied.

Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba confirmed the incident. She also confirmed that the prisoner had filed for clemency and it was denied because Saba refused to accept the prisoner on their island.

Efforts made to contact the Lt. Governor of the Island Territory of Saba proved futile up to press time.

 

 

 

Basse Terre/St. Martin: --- The court of Grande Instance Basse Terre has rendered its verdict in the case brought against SMN News reporter Bibi Hodge-Shaw on November 3 2009. Judge Auguste ruled in favor of Hodge-Shaw while condemning the Directress of Communication of the Collectivity of St. Martin Colette Erivan to pay Hodge-Shaw the sum of Euros 1,500 in damages as well as all expenses endured during this procedure.

While the verdict was rendered on November 3, we only managed to receive it on Monday November 9 2009 from Basse Terre. Judge Aguste in her ruling has deemed the case of Colette Erivan null and void while disregarding the COM for the lack of an executive council decision.

On October 16th, Colette Erivan and the Collectivity of St. Martin summoned Hodge Shaw via an hour-by-hour summons. Hodge-Shaw was summoned to appear in the Court of Grand Instance on October 20 in Basseterre to answer charges of defamation. Erivan claimed that her photograph was used on SMN News website on October 8 2009 without her permission she further claimed she was defamed by the contents of the article, which highlighted the lack of communication from the COM.

Hodge Shaw in her arguments represented by attorney at law Jan Marc FERLY stated that Erivan is a public figure and the photograph that was used was taken with her permission. Erivan asked the court to award her Euros 5,000 for the abuse of the press, Euros 5000 for defamation while the COM asked for Euros 5000. Hodge Shaw in her arguments showed the court that there was no decision taken by the executive council to grant the president of the COM the authorization to summon Hodge Shaw to court. Hodge Shaw also argued that Erivan filed the case outside of her jurisdiction while the case was filed against Hodge-Shaw and not the director of SMN News. She also argued that Erivan did not support her arguments to show defamation based on the law. Hodge Shaw showed the court that Erivan and her legal representative did not live up to basic requirements of the court since they provided a translation that was not legalized. Based on the above facts Hodge Shaw asked the court for damages of Euros 12,000 including the legal fees and to deem each charge null and void.

In the meantime, the Collectivity of St. Martin filed a second court case which is scheduled to he heard on November 10. (Tuesday). It must be noted that while the COM filed this case on October 26th 2009, the first hearing was scheduled for October 27th, which had to be postponed due to the lateness of the summons.

While SMN News is prepared to defend the case that is filed against its reporter, the COM and its legal representatives did not provide Hodge Shaw with the necessary documents to prepare its defense. Our lawyers already informed the prosecutor about the lack of respect and abuse of the judicial system on the part of the COM. Only after a copy of the letter was sent to the COM lawyers did some documents send to our lawyers on Monday.

What must be noted in this case, is that the COM filed a case on October 26th 2009 and the president of the COM Frantz Gumbs in an attestation declared that a decision would be taken on November 5th 2009 in the Executive Council.

SMN News has learnt that two deliberations were taken on November 5th 2009, one being for the COM to take on the legal expenses of Erivan while the second was to give the President the authorization to proceed with legal actions against SMN News.

SMN News will update its readers on these cases as it proceeds.

We would also like to thank our supporters and those that stood beside us as Freedom of the Press was under attack. With the ruling on November 3rd, it is clear that the French judicial system still has full respect for, free speech, democracy and they also recognizes the need for a free press.

Below is the full text of the judgement issued on November 3 2009.

On Friday November 13th at The Sonesta Maho Hotel & Resort Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson and Vice President of the Collectivity French St.Martin Daniel Gibbs cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the Caribbean Home and Garden Expo. Organizer Ms. Bernadette Davis and was on hand to welcome the Commissioner Richardson, the Vice President Gibbs and the public.

Marigot: -- The Collectivity of St. Martin management will get some 14 million Euros as an advance from the State. The information was confirmed via a letter to the Senator and President of the COM. Senator Louis Constant Fleming told SMN News that the he received a letter from the Ministry informing him that they have decided to grant St. Martin an advance of 14 million Euros, which would be equivalent to the amount the island would receive from the 2009 taxes. Fleming provided a copy of the letter to SMN News which clearly states that the State would grant them the monies even though the two financial experts who visited St. Martin last month to access the problems facing the treasury have not finalized their reports.The decision was also approved by the Minister in charge of budget affairs. The letter also stated that when the experts submit their final report they would suggest that a round table meeting be held in Paris to discuss the suggestions that would be made in the report. During this round table discussion, decisions would be taken on what is suggested to St. Martin regarding its fiscal matters.

The following is a copy of the letter. We do apologize to our English speaking readers.

 

Philipsburg: --- The SOAB has submitted its final report on the investigation they were conducting on the department of ROB. SMN News has been reliably informed that the two members of the management team had 10 days on which they were to respond to the report.

It is further understood that the department head and its subordinate had requested extra time to complete their answers, which was eventually submitted. SMN News further learnt that the final summary of the report was submitted to the island Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and leader of government William Marlin. The source said the final report is expected to be delivered sometime this week.

SMN News was informed that those responsible are planning to file criminal charges against those working in the department and were implicated in the report.

SMN News learnt that the report presented by SOAB would have far-reaching consequences on persons applying for building permits. The source said if for some reason a homeowner decides to change the size of their windows, from what is in their permit they would have to re-process their building permits. “the way it is outlined in this report construction would definitely seize and no-one would not be able to build based on the guidelines.”

Some of the findings in the report were outlined in the preliminary report which was issued some months ago advising the executive council to hire an interim manager to manage the department. The investigators in their preliminary report had made it clear that the laws were not followed in the handling of building permits.

Efforts made to contact the island Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and commissioner Theo Heyliger for a comment proved futile up to press time.

 

 

Print, Video Advertising and Public Relations to Focus on Various Mediums.

PHILIPSBURG, St. Maarten (Nov. 23, 2009) – St. Maarten, a diverse Caribbean destination, is focusing on the variety of experiences that vacationers enjoy with a new branding campaign that captures the “feeling of the experience” that visitors elicit during their stay on the island. When announcing the new branding campaign for the destination, St. Maarten Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson explained that the concept behind the branding can be summed up with one statement: “It’s all in our name.”

Working with the spelling of “St. Maarten,” the just-launched campaign will capture audiences across North America with positive adjectives purposefully misspelled with “capital double ‘A’s” followed immediately by the words “St. Maarten.”

The campaign identity, created by advertising agency Tambourine, will be visible in all logos, videos, print and outdoor advertising, specialty marketing items, brochures and stationary as well as an image gallery which features all new photography from an extensive on-island photo shoot recently completed by Tambourine.

Adjectives will constantly be changing depending on the focus of specific ads. For instance, when promoting St. Maarten as a wedding and honeymoon destination, an ad may read: “PAASSIONATE ST. MAARTEN.” When conveying St. Maarten as an active vacation playground, an audience could see: “PLAAYFUL ST. MAARTEN.”

A just-launched public relations campaign to promote winter specials for vacationers is using “SENSAATIONAL ST. MAARTEN” to capture the extraordinary deals that are now available.

Other words designed for the campaign include: MAAGICAL, GLAAMOROUS, CHAARMING, and ENCHAANTING.

“We are very proud of our diversity with a wide range of attractions and activities, a variety of accommodations, more than 300 quality restaurants and our central location which enables vacationers to enjoy day trips to other islands,” explained Commissioner Richardson. “This campaign allows us to tap into and highlight all the things that make St. Maarten an ideal vacation destination through words and phrases that truly represent how a traveler feels while on-island,” he added.

The branding campaign is part of an overall new marketing strategy being launched under the direction of Frans Richardson, the new Commissioner of Tourism, which coincides with the hiring of KTCpr, headed up by long-time Caribbean marketing and public relations specialist Richard S. Kahn. The new branding will encompass advertising, public relations, marketing and sales as well as a new website.

Tambourine (formerly Gideon-Cardozo Communications), based in South Florida, a full-service marketing firm specializing in advanced creative development is working closely with KTCpr on all aspects of the new marketing strategy.

“Our mission was to take St. Maarten in a new direction and illustrate how the island ‘feels’ rather than literally documenting the infrastructure of the island,” said Rafael Cardozo, president of Tambourine.

Cardozo added: “The concept is innovative and playful; the message is strong and memorable. In addition to the logos, the photo collection tells a story of the vacation experiences captured through movement, mood and expression. Most importantly the campaign is a true representation of the beauty and excitement of the destination.”

Video presentations (including 30-second, 60-second and extended spots) have been created for use in commercials, tradeshows, social networking sites, and in other mediums.

“We are excited about the new branding campaign and look forward to getting our messaging out to loyal vacationers to St. Maarten as well as those who have yet to experience our destination,” said Regina Labega, Director of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. “Working with Tambourine to develop the new concept has been a great experience and we are very pleased with the results,” she added.

KTCpr, which oversees all marketing, public relations, sales, advertising and promotional efforts on behalf of St. Maarten, will incorporate the new branding in all future initiatives.

 

 

Philipsburg: ---A 43-year old Guyanese man identified as M.A.E is now in police custody as a suspected bolita swallower. Head of Customs Anthony Doran in an invited comment said E was arrested at the Princess Juliana International Airport on Wednesday morning during a control. Doran said E travelled from Guyana to Antigua and Barbuda on a Caribbean Airline Flight then to St. Maarten. E was supposed to board an Air France Flight to Paris on Thursday then take the train to Belgium. However, during the random control the man began acting nervous which led police to him. He was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center where an ex-tray was performed at the doctors saw over 100 pellets containing cocaine inside of the suspect. Doran said E would be taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center on Thursday where he would receive medication to release the pellets.

Marigot: --- Senator Louis Constant Fleming has released copies of the letter he received last week as well as on Wednesday to members of the media. Senator Fleming made clear that he filed an official complaint with the gendarmes and as such, he is not going to comment on the letter.

The letter also included an article that was published on this website regarding the killing of Bertrand Maurice was sent by regular mail through the post office. It arrived at the Collectivity on November 18, 2009.

Below is the letter including the photograph of the high-powered rifle that was attached to the two-page letter.

As reported on Thursday a letter, containing death threats was sent to Senator Louis Constant Fleming and President Frantz Gumbs sometime last week. The writer of the letter sent copies to the gendarmes as well as the prosecutor. The writer is also demanding that the Collectivity of St. Martin pay the sum of Euros 100,000.00 to the families of Rigobert Bertrand Maurice who was shot to death on September 24 2009 in the vicinity of the Collectivity. The writer promises to shoot both elected officials and other innocent people before turning the weapon on himself or herself since they have nothing to lose. The writer believes the COM and the Municipal Police is responsible for the killing of Bertrand Maurice since it was done over a parking space located across from the COM.

 

Cole Bay:---Fresh out of a packed week of activities, The Democratic party of Sint Maarten is gearing up for its first public meeting for this campaign.

On Friday, November 27th the party continued its “Greet and Meet” in the area of South Reward at the Fleming’s residence.

Candidates had the opportunity to introduce themselves to the audience, with the usual closing by the DP leader, Mrs. Wescot-Williams who not only stressed the need for voters to come out and vote in the January 22, 2010 election, but also to vote for a party, able and willing to represent St. Maarten in the Antillean Parliament, until this parliament is replaced by the Parliament of Country Sint Maarten. The DP leader touted her Party’s record, not only on the constitutional front, but also her administration’s achievements up to June 8th of this year. As an example, the DP leader pointed to the nearly completed gym hall, located next to the Milton Peters College and several others.

She chided the leader of the NA for his criticism of the housing project in Hope Estate, a project that he subsequently proudly celebrated, when the highest point was reached.

Saturday night was the party’s grand fundraising event, featuring the Calypso King of the World, the Mighty Sparrow.

Sparrow kept the capacity audience at the Maho Convention Center enthralled for the entire show, as he sang his famous tunes to the music of the Troubadours. The crowd consisted of all ages, and its reaction was one of sheer enjoyment. Several patrons had traveled from Anguilla to also witness the Calypso monarch and enjoy his stellar performance.

Preceding Sparrow was our own Timo and he did not disappoint his home crowd. Not to be left out, the MC, our King Arrow (Erol Dolphin) did his song “Destiny”, a fitting tribute to mark the Party’s 55th anniversary.

All in all, certainly a night to remember.

The first public meeting of the DP will be held this Friday, December 4th in Cole Bay, the district where the leader resides, on the Tackling property, adjacent to the Shell Gas Station, starting at 7.30 pm.

The Party’s focus in this election is to finish the job it started on the constitutional front; continue to highlight the issues affecting our community, such as crime and health care, and demonstrate where true commitment to the people of Sint Maarten lies.

 

 

 

Simpson Bay: --- Workers mainly the cleaning staff of Atrium resort decided to stand still on Saturday in order to get their Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) signed with management and their union the United Federation Union (UFA).

About 40 workers from maintenance stood around the lobby as board members of the United Federation Union (UFA) negotiate with their manager to sign their CLA. According to President of the UFA Francis Ollivachi, the union he said has been trying to get their CLA signed for over two years now but management he said refused.

Ollivachi said when the workers stood still on Saturday they managed to sign a protocol until January 2010 when the negotiations on the CLA would resume. Workers at Atrium would now enjoy a $500 bonus this year, while they would also get a 5% increase in their salary. Also agreed upon are the workers now having a life insurance to the value of $500.000, $100.000 for permanent disability and $100.000 for accidental death. Workers who worked overtime would also be entitled to $6.00 as meals allowance.

 

 

French Quarter: --- A seven-year-old boy had a shock of his life on Saturday morning while fishing in the French Quarter salt pond. According to an aunt of Jacob Sony, the child was fishing in the pond with his small fish line when a fish weighing about 20 kilos held on the line.

The woman said the child screamed out for help asking his uncle that was nearby to assist him since the huge catch was pulling him into the pond. Miss Jacob said Franz Jacob went to assist the child by taking his fish gun and piercing the fish so that the child could pull it in. In photo are Jacob and his six-year-old cousin who was also on hand with their uncle with the huge fish.

 

 

Dutch Quarter: --- The National Alliance has elected a new board, while most of the members on the board has changed party leader William Marlin remained unchallenged. Marlin told reporters that the post for vice president was a close call and that commissioner Frans Richardson out run Senator Rudolph Samuel by one vote to secure the seat of vice president. Marlin said this shows that there is democracy and most importantly that the supporters of National Alliance embraced all their candidates. The three candidates that postulated for the vice president seat were Senator George Pantophlet 37 votes, Frans Richardson (39) and Rudolph Samuel (39) due to the run off a second round of election had to be held between Samuel and Richardson.

Marlin said they are thrilled with the congress since they had a packed house and mostly importantly because young Darren James son of the late Vance James thrilled the crowd and inspired the gathering with his keynote address.

Marlin said with the new board in place the candidates for the upcoming parliamentary elections were also selected and will be revealed on postulation day later this month. Marlin confirmed that the candidates are revved up and are ready even though they are not in favor of having an election.

Marlin said one of their objectives is to continue the constitutional process especially since government has a responsibility as island government to continue the process. Marlin said even though they are charged with other responsibilities, those that would be elected to parliament will have the responsibility to over look the dismantling process.

The following is the full text of the speech given by James.

Leader of the National Alliance and Leader of the island Government of St. Maarten, Commissioner William Marlin, Commissioners Frans Richardson, Hyacinth Richardson, and Xavier Blackman, senators Rudolphe Samuel and Patrick illidge, former state secretary of health, chairman of the central committee, Mr. George Pantophlet, Members of the National Alliance, District leaders, Congress delegates, friends and supporters of the National Alliance… Good Afternoon.

Let me begin by congratulating the entire party on this historic occasion - the first congress of the National Alliance. It is truly an honor and a humbling experience to have been asked, then selected as the key note speaker for this event.

The National alliance a few months ago, was given the opportunity to take over the government of St. Maarten when the Democratic Party government imploded.

It is a most strenuous challenge to educate masses of people in a short time frame. It is a most difficult task to change the minds of those who support others and assist those with no opinion or preference to formulate one during a brief campaign, when you most have their attention. It is a daunting task to fix what others have left broken and then to get the wheels working right. In my short 20 years of life and my own “political” experiences in my campaigns for office, I have found those experiences to be true.

But ladies and gentlemen, it is challenges and tasks such as these that the National Alliance of St. Maarten has taken up with a passion and with the conviction that at the cross roads of island-nation St. Maarten and country St. Maarten we will move forward, together!

Growing up here on this beautiful island, with its rich folklore, it was easy for me to become a true believer in the wisdom of “what the old people say”. it should come as no surprise then, that I am A strong believer In the old adage “you must know where you come from, in order to know where you are going”.

Let me take you back to 1979 - when this party was started as a simple movement - a Patriotic movement of the St. Maarten people. As with any movement or initiative, progress comes with a great deal of hard work, of determination and the uniting of people under the common cause that they have identified. Progress comes with the vision of getting them to the place where they want to be and where it will benefit all.

the movement of patriotic St. Maarten people knew, too, that identifying strong leadership, forming partnerships and the education of the masses were then and would forever be the keys to a successful movement and progressive St. Maarten society.

As this movement of patriotic St. Maartners made forward strides, their leadership seldom suffered from realizing the scope of the party’s possibilities. As such, they grew in size and their vision expanded in order to encompass the needs of so many strong supporters. along the way, allies were made and the St. Maarten Patriotic Alliance was born in 19___.

The St. Maarten Patriotic Alliance - a group of St. Maarten people, comprised of members of the initial movement and of newcomers from other arenas with the same great intentions to move St. Maarten forward came together in “true blue” and ploughed forward steadfastly in their initiatives for a stronger, better St. Maarten.

Never losing sight of the array of possibilities and strengths that could be obtained by utilizing their allies, the St. Maarten Patriotic Alliance made it through to the 21st century and in 2002 evolved once more into the party we see here today - the National Alliance.

What is the National Alliance? - a strategic partnership between the St. Maarten Patriotic Alliance and the national progressive party created to better serve and benefit the people of St. Maarten.

The national alliance is a group of passionate, educated, visionary men and women with St. Maarten’s best interests at heart - working together for St. Maarten!

As time passes and the world around us evolves physically, technologically, socially, and otherwise… one thing must be realized - the leadership should be able to keep the country in pace with these evolutions and have the vision to foresee and realize where we must evolve not only to keep pace but to be a front runner in our industry and a leader in our region.

It is clear that the St. Maarten Patriotic Movement, turned St. Maarten Patriotic Alliance, turned National Alliance possesses the qualities to lead the people of St. Maarten.

It is clear that a party which can embrace and utilize its physical, human, intellectual and other resources to evolve itself along the way will undoubtedly share this ability to help St. Maarten evolve with the world around us and provide the necessary visionary leadership.

the right choice for Country St. Maarten is a progressive party, it is a diverse party, it is a culturally sensitive party, it is party designed as a grass-roots movement for the people, to serve the people and to advance the people. It is the party that we know, love and support today - it is the national alliance.

The theme of this, your first congress is “Together, moving forward”. St. Maarten’s motto is semper pro grediens - always moving forward. I think that the national alliance marketers have something going here!

The national alliance is synonymous with the country - always moving forward. Yes, you have been hearing me right, with the country - not with the island nation or any variation of such - because if we’re going to become a country, then we have to start thinking like a country and regarding ourselves as a country.

Together moving forward… young and old, native and non-native, men and women, our respected senior citizens, our productive adults, our brilliant young adults and our promising children - working together to move forward.

To our current Leadership, I have seen so often how you are appreciated. But when you stand at the threshold of the history of country St. Maarten - I see and recognize the immense workload, the pressure and the scrutiny that you come under. St. Maarten needs you now so much to take us out of the promise of Country St. Maarten and into the reality that is country St. Maarten.

Country will immediately need you - to cast light on the unknown and give guidance in unchartered waters. Let no man, woman, or organization tell you otherwise - it has been 9 years, 4 months and 23 days since our referendum to become a country within the kingdom of the Netherlands.

And in that time frame we have been there - whether we were the St. Maarten patriotic alliance or the national alliance - we remained a strategic partnership created to better serve and benefit the people of St. Maarten.

We comprised delegations, we hosted information sessions, we formed think-tanks and held talks and had just as an integral part in the formation of what stands before us as anyone else who was there.

Ladies and gentlemen, kindly join me in expressing my own appreciation for the leaders of this party and every supporting member.

Ladies and gentlemen, together moving forward. We have looked at the elements of togetherness and where they have brought us thus far, we have looked at the movement of the people and the party to where we are today.

So, now let us focus on “forward”.

as time moves on, knowledge is shared, experiences are documented and the torch that burns so brightly must be passed on in order to keep its flame.

The young people of St. Maarten today - whether on-island or off - are some of the sharpest, most well-trained minds in our country’s history. We need to get them back to this country where we can fully utilize their abilities. Easier said than done though, right?

Let me express, here, that I have every intention of returning to St. Maarten once my studies are complete and my experiences abroad mold me to that pivotal place where I am confident and feel able to come back and better serve my country.

While traveling to the island here, yesterday, I was “playing tourist” and picked up a copy of destination St. Maarten. Within its 240-page spread of everything that excited me about coming home for this brief 48 hour stay was an article about persons abroad who came to St. Maarten years ago, and have since made it their permanent island home.

As a well-loved tourist destination, we have learned to do one thing very well - market ourselves. It is such strategic marketing that has us in the upper-tier in tourism destinations in the Caribbean and the world.

Yes, there is a seemingly “better” life elsewhere for young St. Maartners while they are offshore. But, there is an island paradise here - which serves as a beautiful place to live, to raise a family and a great place to work and to advance in various fields as the economy continues to grow in this developing market.

If we can market to and have traffic in the millions of tourists here every year - if we can market to so many tourists to purchase and develop real estate across this magnificent landscape - then why not to our own? There is another market to which we need to focus our efforts, and that is our very own St. Maarteners living abroad - not to come for a brief visit that benefits the tourism sector but to come home for a lifetime of opportunities and to contribute to the society which shares the values which helped mold them into who they are and where they are today.

Here’s a concept for you… the first black governor of Massachusetts, Deval Patrick, in 2006 introduced legislation to the state senate that would encourage young professionals and working couples exiting graduate school, or currently on short-term employment to stay in Massachusetts by offering them a “settlement package”. this package provided them with “easy money” up front to make a down payment on a home or other residential property where they could settle and establish themselves, as well as plan for a family.

I think we’ve learned over the years that simply attempting to take a concept from another part of the world and applying it in some similar raw form is ineffective on St. Maarten. But the key there is that there is incentive for our young professionals to not only come back to the island, but to stay on the island.

Another strong initiative that needs to be encouraged is the formation of small businesses on our island, owned by our very own. Every economy in the world has its major power players - but the bulk of the employment comes from small businesses that employ so many and provide financial wealth, and emotional strength for so many.

It’s not only about the money, however, ladies and gentlemen. It is about the encouragement, the knowledge and the know-how that will ensure the success of so many.

As such, I propose a series of seminars - open to all and encouraged and marketed to all that will provide members of our community with the information, the resources and the networking opportunities to grow. most importantly, an aspect that must be included is follow up sessions that will assist in the maintenance of their business.

Furthermore, tracking the success of businesses achieved, stabilized or that experienced growth in this market through such a program - which could be coordinated in conjunction with small business development foundation - would allow for further marketing, as we would have a system proven to work.

There is no sure-fire way to get back scores of St. Maarteners. However, as with anything in life, when we take the necessary series of small steps, we can accomplish anything with due diligence.

Young people… just like when we are in school - the teacher can teach….but the student must learn - not just hear or physically be there. To you my fellow young people, I say, let us learn from our leadership - both in flaws and in victories.

 

As we move forward, together, never undervalue the advice they provide, never undermine an initiative that they have started, refrain from the arrogance of “I know more so I know right”. remember, that experience is your best teacher. Follow-through on good things started and learn from their experiences that were not as successful as initially anticipated.

We are the future of this country St. Maarten. We are the torch-bearing youth running to light ablaze the magnificent landscape with our intellect, our innovation and our success. We are country St. Maarten!

I want you to take a moment and look at the logo of the National Alliance. All logos are designed to depict a particular message - but with many, another message is left up to one’s interpretation. As we talk about visionary leadership and moving forward - realize that the light from a lighthouse can only be seen up to a certain distance, but the light of the sun is cast over everything on the earth and encompasses everything and everyone - it even manages to cast light into the smallest cracks and crevices, illuminating the darkest spaces that are left and seemingly forgotten.

National alliance - from this congress, you will select your leadership, you will delegate party tasks and responsibilities and through such means you will continue to formulate a contingency plan for country St. Maarten with a vision for the people that will evolve as country St. Maarten draws ever nearer! We believe in our national alliance and the strength of the people who comprise it - we are together!

Leaders - continue to cast your light on these 16 square miles and don’t ever neglect or minimize the potential of one of our greatest partners - St. martin north - where 21 square miles of beauty abound. Remember many cultures, one island, one people. I know the task of handling what you have on your plate now and focusing on passing on such great information to the future is a difficult task - but it is not an impossible one. We are moving now - continue to move us.

Young people - appreciate the older generations - leaders in politics, in business, in the church, grandparents, parents, and siblings alike. Respect their journeys in life and the experiences that they have had.

don’t wait simply for them to spoon feed you years of valuable information. Take the initiative…read, listen, converse with them and all their allies. Observe and get a feel for what is happening around you, formulate and share opinions, stimulate your minds by attending public seminars, information sessions and panel discussions. Knowledge is power, experience will be your own best teacher, as well, but never try to reinvent the wheel.

In closing, ladies and gentlemen, let me express my sincerest gratitude to all the members of the st. maarten patriotic movement, the st. maarten patriotic alliance and the national alliance who have over the years stuck with the party through thick and thin - through good times and not so good times - through periods of evolution and of apparent stagnation. It is with your determination and love that we are where are today and your experience and passion that will help propel us forward into tomorrow.

As we move into the next phase of history for our country, let us “Follow the white line” as we jam, celebrate and appreciate our cultural heritage. Let us follow the white line, as we forge forward our constitutional change and exercise our democratic rights, let us follow the white line as we stimulate our economy with a host of programs that will not only attract foreign income, but generate and reinvest our own money for our benefit

Let us follow the white party and the white line of our country that has been kissed by nature with white sand beaches and a culture of inclusion to a National satisfaction and progress.

We are together, moving forward - let us follow the white line down the road to country St. Maarten and national success!

Thank you and have a wonderful congress!

 

 

Marigot:---Ever since the anonymous letter was sent to the Collectivity of St. Martin threatening the president and senator with death threats. SMN News learnt that the president has decided to have a personal bodyguard who walks around with his bulletproof vest. The bodyguard is no other that Patrick Paynes a member of Territorial Police.

SMN News learnt that President Gumbs is nervous since his life was threatened by authors of the letters. It is also understood that Gumbs is taking the matter seriously while he refused to accept full responsibility for the rising crime rate. So far, the president did not say if the COM is taking any responsibility towards the killing of Bertin-Maurice. Rigobert Bertin Maurice was also a contracted employee of the COM. Relatives of the now dead man had said he had signed a contract with the COM two days prior to his slaying.

On Thursday, security at the Collectivity increased due to a territorial council meeting that was in process. Several employees and council members made sure they left the COM the moment it began to get dark claiming they do not want to be around when there is any type of attack.

The president spoke at length about the threatening letters during the council meeting he also informed the councilors that one of the letters was sent to him and the senator in a pizza box.

The writer of the letter has given the president and senator until today (Monday November 30 2009) to pay the Euros 100, 000.00 to relatives of Rigobert Bertin-Maurice who was killed on September 24 2009 in the vicinity of the COM.

The perpetrator of the letter said the Collectivity is responsible for the death of Bertin Maurice since the killer Jean Marc Sharpless was instructed by a territorial police to park in a parking spot belonging to Bertin-Maurice a resident living opposite the COM.

In an invited comment leader of the opposition party Alain Richardson said death threats should be taken seriously. Richardson said while he does not know what has motivated the person or persons to write such a letter or to become this desperate, threatening the lives of other people is not acceptable.