Articles

C'est avec grande tristesse et beaucoup de douleur que je m'adresse à vous en ces temps supposés être de fête, d'amour et de partage ... Vendredi soir, rentrant chez moi après une journée débutée si cruellement avec l'accident mortel de Cul de Sac, je me retrouvai en présence de mes petits enfants à assister à une scène qui aurait pu être considérée peut-être banale ou anodine si mon petit fils de 4 ans ne m'avait secouée par ses mots !
En effet, nous assistions en direct à une crise que les spécialistes qualifieraient d'hystérie mais que moi, je ressentais plutôt comme de grand désespoir et de souffrance !
Quotidiennement, nous côtoyons ces hommes et ces femmes que nous surnommons les « crackés » ou « crackheads » comme faisant partie du décor naturel de notre île ! Ils se sont si bien incrustés que rien ni personne ne semble venir bousculer les choses.
De tels personnages, me direz-vous ,il y en a partout , dans tous les pays ! Hélas , c'est vrai mais Saint-Martin est mon pays et je l'aime ! Depuis quelques mois, le nombre de sans domicile fixe ne cesse d'augmenter. Non seulement, des saint-martinois mais de plus en plus de métropolitains s'installent dans cette déchéance qu'est le monde des drogués !
Je me souviens d'avoir rencontré cette jeune femme aux yeux perçants, les cheveux étincelants à l'entrée d'un restaurant de la Marina faisant la manche car elle n'avait plus d'argent n'ayant plus de travail ! Quelques semaines , plus tard, la chevelure avait disparu et un foulard lui cachait les pustules surinfectées de son visage ! Et comme, bien d'autres, elle se trimballe entre Cole Bay et Marigot à la recherche de quelques « cailloux » qui puissent lui donner quelques instants de bonheur artificiel !
A l'heure où nous passons de magasins en magasins, de boutiques en boutiques, à la recherche du plus beau cadeau pour ceux et celles que nous aimons, que faisons-nous pour ces hommes et ces femmes perdus sans aucun espoir auquel se raccrocher ? Leur acheter à manger ? Les habiller ? Les envoyer au Manteau de Saint-Martin ? Sont-ce là les bonnes solutions ??? Je n'en suis pas si sûre !
C'est pour cela que j'ai décidé de m'adresser à nos élus et nos autorités de tutelle car mon pays est malade et il est temps de le soigner. Ce qui me chagrine le plus c'est bien le nombre de femmes sans cesse croissant s'installant dans la misère de la rue ! Je pense que quelque part en France, en Europe, une maman, un papa, un frère, une sœur, une grand-mère pleurent son être cher car ils ne savent où il s'est envolé ! Et pourtant les contrôles d'identité sont toujours d'actualité, n'est ce pas ? C'est vrai aussi que la réponse « Un adulte doit être consentant pour accepter de se sortir de la misère » me fascine toujours autant ! Comment un être humain ne possédant plus ses facultés mentales saines peut-il prendre une telle décision ?
Oui, nous avons nos saint-martinois « crackés » mais ils ont presque tous une attache familiale , un endroit où instinctivement ils peuvent se réfugier en cas de détresse extrême !
Faut-il attendre que ces femmes venues d'ailleurs meurent d'une overdose ou soient sauvagement assassinées pour essayer de les aider ?
Si le grand Charles Aznavour a chanté « que la misère serait moins pénible au soleil », il ne se doutait pas que ces maudits assassins que sont le crack, l'héroïne, la coke et que sais-je encore envahiraient nos cieux ensoleillés !! Ces belles affiches dans le métro oublient de mentionner qu'elles ne s'adressent qu'aux touristes et vacanciers venus passer deux ou trois semaines au soleil ! Saint-Martin n'est plus l'Eldorado d'antan ! Les plus belles rêveries ne deviennent vite que désillusions destructrices et ravageuses !
Je m'adresse à tous ceux et celles qui ont le POUVOIR de changer les choses en vous demandant de faire un geste envers ces femmes car un homme dans la rue c'est dur mais... une femme c'est mille fois plus pénible à supporter car nous avons tous une mère , une sœur , une fille dans notre vie que nous aimons à en mourir !
Rien de plus magnifique que ces lumières et guirlandes illuminées dans les rues de Marigot mais pourquoi vouloir illuminer une ville qui devient ,à la fermeture des magasins, une cour des miracles où ne règnent que souffrance et misère ?

Aline Choisy

Philipsburg December 27, 2009.

As we are moving speedily towards the ending of the year 2009 and moving with great expectations towards the beginning of the year 2010, I am wondering what happened to the investigation that was carried out against my father, inspector Carlton PHILIPS.
Almost a full year has gone by since he has been accused of destruction of information during the time that he worked at the Criminal Intelligence Department. He left the department in the year 2002. Because of this allegation, his police carrier has been negatively impacted. He kindly requested that an impartial investigation be carried out in order to clear his good name and his honor to be restored.
After waiting for seven long months, he was forced to go public with the hope that an investigation will be carried out to prove his innocence.
Management of the police force never expected him to go public. Members of the "Internal Affairs Division" from Curacao were brought in to investigate my father in an attempt to punish him for going public.
According to information the investigation has been completed, a report has been submitted to the relevant authorities, but up to this date this report is being kept top secret. I am certain that if there were any evidence that my father had done anything wrong, you would have been happy to inform the public. I wonder if there is something in this report that the public should not know.
By means of this letter, I am respectfully requesting you to publish the result of the investigation, apologize publicly to my father and bring this episode in his life to rest. I know that my father will never forget, but I believe he will be able to forgive you some day.

Norwin PHILIPS

Philipsburg: ---One of the key factors in fighting the epidemic of HIV/ Aids is correct information and talking more about the disease. This was the message the management team of the HIV/ Aids as well as dignitaries of the island shared on World Aids Day. At the official ceremony Leader of Government William Marlin said in the past persons that were infected with HIV/Aids did all that was possible to conceal the illness, reason why he believed the epidemic escalated. Marlin said when persons were infected in the past they were heavily discriminated against simply because during the early years the disease had been kept cloaked up in the closet. Those who were infected by it were ashamed to come forward while family members almost retreated from active social life due to the infected family member. Marlin said it was due to ignorance of this disease that it spread over the years.

Marlin said because of the HIV/Aids, the management team of HIV/Aids St. Maarten is able to move away from the stigma, and those that are infected today are able to come out in the open and talk about the disease. He felt that St. Maarten needs to continue its battle to create awareness, which would help, eliminate the ignorance regarding the disease.

Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards in his address said this is the time to take stock and to see what else can be done to create more awareness about the disease. He said HIV/Aids has taken a toll on communities around the world where generations of people have died leaving a number of older people and children dependent on a shrinking labour force in some countries. Richards said millions of children have lost a parent to HIV/Aids they have lost best friends, resulting in the lost of hand to squeeze or a good night kiss. According to the UN, estimates there are 33.4 million people living with HIV/Aids including 2.1 million children. In 2008, approximately 2.7 million people were infected with the virus while an estimated 2 million people have died from the disease. Richards said based on statistical information most of the infected are infected by age 25 and died before they reach the age of 35. He said even though much has been done to create awareness about the disease it remains a threat to men, women, and children worldwide including St. Maarten. Director of HIV/Aids management team Suzette Moses said as long as there is stigma and discrimination against those living with the disease it would erode the progress that was made against HIV/Aids.

Richards said while treatment is the key to keep those infected alive, prevention is the is the key for the generation of tomorrow. Richards said prevention would not be successful unless the community changes it behavior. He said there was be talks about sexuality and sexual behavior and to exercise safe and consensual sex has to be part of the everyday discussions, which would result in a change. He said in countries where there is much more openness and honesty about the virus and the threat HIV/Aids presents progress are being made. St. Maarten he said can beat this epidemic if more effort is placed into it.

The theme this year is “Universal Access and Human Rights' which is geared at giving all persons infected with HIV/ Aids access to treatment and prevention and to protect human rights. Countries that discriminate against HIV/ Aids patients are called to remove laws that discriminate against persons living with HIV/Aids, women and organized groups.

Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson said the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, and be protected. Richardson said because of this everyone needs to learn about sexual health as well as to find support when it is needed.

While director of public health Drs. Jorien Wuite in her address said the theme Universal Access and Human Rights has been chosen to address the critical need to protect human rights and attain access for all to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support. It also acts as a call to countries to remove laws that discriminate against people living with HIV, women and marginalized groups.

She said the executive director (Sidibe) of UNAIDS said: "Achieving universal access to prevention, treatment, care, and support is a human rights imperative. It is essential that the global response to the AIDS epidemic is grounded in human rights and that discrimination and punitive laws against those most affected by HIV are removed.”

UNAIDS made a recent statement that they welcome the US announcement of the final rule removing entry restrictions based on HIV status from US policy. The removal of HIV-related travel restrictions in the US overturns a policy that had been in place since 1987. Such restrictions, strongly opposed by UNAIDS in the last 5-10 years, are considered discriminatory and not effective to protect public health.

 

Wuite said St. Maarten can look back on a year with great progress such as the continuation of the Red Campaign, the availability of more funds through the partnership with EU funds for OCT countries, the extensive training for Health care professionals, more outreach testing possibilities, the renewal of girl power and the completion of the curriculum development by the established Education work group to ensure more re-productive health /sexual education for the youth. As director closely involved in the development of government’s first Strategic plan for HIV/AIDS in the days that St. Maarten was losing its commitment to the response activities,

Government’s Strategic plan 2007-2011 highlights four objectives to focus St. Maarten’s response to HIV and these priorities represent the areas that are of the greatest concern for our island. They are:

1. Advocacy, Policy Development and Legislation

2. Reducing the risk and vulnerability to HIV/AIDS infection

3. Care, Treatment and Support of persons living with HIV/AIDS

4. Surveillance and Research

 

For Care, treatment and Support of persons living with HIV/AIDS we prioritize a scaled up access to ARV treatment, Psychosocial care and support to PLWHA and those affected and the aspect of a New Care and treatment plan as SXM moves to Separate Status. That is why the current involvement of critical health care workers is considered an important step for the accomplishment is objective.

The National health insurance system that has been designed on paper this year will minimize residents being uninsured and strengthen:

• comprehensive medical packages, including care & treatment for PLWHA

• accurate financing and budgeting to overcome the present under financing of our health system and

• place more emphasis on preventive practices.

In the meantime, with the help of Commissioner William Marlin the HIV/Aids foundation managed to raise some $6975.00 and Naf. 200.00 during the radioton on Sunday.

 

 

Middle Region:--- Police was called to a home in Middle Region where they found a dead man. The man it is understood the man is from Haiti. According to police spokesman Ricardo Henson said the man seemingly was injured somewhere else since there were signs of injury to his head. It is understood that the man may have bled to death. Police have not ruled out murder neither are they calling it murder. The identity of the victim has not been released by police. Police searched the home to see if they would find any clue as to what has caused this suspicious death.

GREAT BAY: --- Several civil servants that took part in the course work to become extra ordinary police officers finally took the oath on Thursday at the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall.
Among them are workers from the Island Labour department, ROB, VOSEC.
The civil servants were urged by Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and commissioner of economic affairs Frans Richardson not to abuse the power given to them. Richards also asked the extra ordinary police officers to make sure they stay clean and not to end up in the newspapers negatively. Both Richards and Richardson also urged the officers to remain honest and most importantly to deal with the public humanely.

"I want to congratulate you for a job well done; I know that it took hours of work and lots of studying, but you came through. Today you are being sworn in as extra-ordinary police officers to carry out with authority a very important task. Do so fairly and in a humble way, for the person you are dealing with is also human. So do not abuse the power. Be sensitive, patient, and wise," said Commissioner Richardson.

MARIGOT—Organizers of the comedy show “Laugh till your Belly Burst” are urging the community of St. Martin/St. Maarten to come out this weekend and get a good dose of natural medicine. Glen Brooks the main organizer told reporters on Thursday that the show is scheduled to begin tonight (Friday) at the Sandy Ground Culture Centre at 8pm and it is scheduled to continue at the same time on Saturday and Sunday.

Some of the comedians that are expected to perform are Lemon from Jamaica. Errol Fabian, from Trinidad, Willy Brown with Woody and Rufus from the USA as well as Rolando Brison as the emcee.

Each comedians are expected to perform for half an hour. Office de Tourisme one of the sponsors of the show has put together some gifts for the comedians that are expected to begin the Christmas season.

Other sponsors are St. Maarten Cable TV, and the Windward Islands Bank. Brooks said they are going to offer something different in comedy.

Tickets cost 25euros or $25 and $30 or 30euros at the door and can be purchased from Van Dorp Bookstores, Chippie Café, Artsen Service Center (Hameau du Pont), and Best Buy Gas Station(French Quarter).

 

 

Marigot:--- The leader of the opposition party of the territorial council Alain Richardson in a press release denounces Senator Louis Constant Fleming about his newly acquired position as president of the Semsamar.
The following is the full text of the press release.;

The release states that one does not easily relinquish the enjoyment of power. It appears that he (LC Fleming) really missed his title as "President"! But, he has somehow reclaimed it. He is again President...!

The alleged "father of the Status", last occupied the presidency of the Island territory of Saint-Martin (COM), a brief passage marked by a forfeiture pronounced by the Council of State, no longer enjoyed the title and therefore, did not stand as representative and in leader of government and this, even if he always behaves as such and indirectly exerts "de facto" the President's functions. He simply needed, at all costs, his title of President.

The alleged "the father of the statute" would be, according to his own words, the "father of the SEMSAMAR" and in this capacity, he is back to claim control over his child. On Thursday December 3, 2009, our "ex- leader of government" and Senator was elected at the head of the SEMSAMAR – a public private partnership - while becoming its president.

Even if this election as head of the SEMSAMAR is absolutely legal in principle and that the Senator is one of its shareholders, the fact remains that his nomination at such a post poses a real ethical and moral problem. Indeed, how should one understand that the Senator who holds less than 5% of the capital of the Public private partnership of Saint Martin – SEMSAMAR - is elected as its president whereas the Island Community of St-Martin which holds more than 50% of that capital, which also had a candidate for this same position, in the person of its 4th Vice-president Mr. Louis JEFFRY did not win the election?

How should one understand, admit and consider this taking of the leadership of this organization, that Mr. Louis-Constant FLEMING, former president of the COM and Mr. Frantz GUMBS, current President in title, both call "the armed wing" of the Community?

Is it necessary, in passing, to remind the readers that the new elected President of the SEMSAMAR is the main partner and supplier of land on this territory of Saint Martin of the SEMSAMAR? Transfers of land, which are done at full price!

Isn't such a configuration likely to be generating conflicts of interests when one knows that Mr. Senator, equilibrist, cumulates on his head several hats:
- chair "de facto" of the Island territory of Saint-Martin, majority shareholder of the Public Private Partnership,
- leading vendor of land to the SEMSAMAR, (element essential to its principal activity as builder of social housing,
- shareholder of the Public Private Partnership with 4,73% of its capital,

Isn't there a dangerous resemblance with a mode of operation which has been denounced and severely criticized nationally and which regarded the mode of government of Gaston FLOSSE in French Polynesia?

If one looks closely to the doings of Mr. Louis-Constant FLEMING since the installation of the new Island Territory of Saint-Martin (COM), doesn't one have all reasons to believe that we are in a banana republic?

Why there was an adjournment during the elections for the presidency of the SEMSAMAR last Thursday December 3, 2009 and what took place at that moment? What happened during the negotiation, which could have caused the candidate of the Island Territory of Saint-Martin desist, giving his support to the other candidate and Senator? Which agreement could have been concluded between the Senator and his substitute Mr. JEFFRY so that the Presidency is attributed to the less representative shareholder?

We, the inhabitants, and leaders of Saint Martin rise against such practices and denounce them! We the inhabitants and leaders of Saint Martin denounce and condemn such operations, which do nothing but throw even more discredit and opprobrium on our incipient Community!

GREAT BAY,– Youth Health Care (YHC) is calling on parents and guardians to get their children vaccinated against childhood diseases such as rubella, mumps and measles, and to make use of the school Christmas holiday period when YHC will be open for this purpose.

YHC will be open from 8.30am to 4.30pm and even through lunch, allowing working parents an opportunity to bring their kids in to update their child (ren's) vaccination status and or records. The YHC office is located at the Vineyard Office Park Building.

The administering of vaccinations against childhood diseases is free. There is no charge for children four through 17 years old to be vaccinated at YHC. This vaccination program is sponsored by the Island Government.

Vaccines help prevent infectious diseases and save lives. Vaccines are responsible for the control of many infectious diseases including polio and tetanus.

Since the vaccination open house back in May up to the first week of December, over 1200 MMR2 vaccinations were administered to young people.

YHC has also changed its vaccination schedule. The schedule was changed in order to achieve more compliance and to ensure that children get their vaccinations on time. Parents would leave a long time pass before they would follow-up for another vaccination.

Parents/guardians are free to come into YHC to get information on their child vaccination status and if they allow their children to be vaccinated by their physicians or abroad, then, this information should be brought into YHC so that the vaccination records can be updated.

Disease prevention is the key to public health. It is always better to prevent a disease than to treat it.

Those requiring further information can call YHC at 542-3553, 542-3003, or 542-2078.

 

Philipsburg: --- The police have arrested some four persons for the killing of French businessman Jean Claude Busquet. Busquet was killed on December 12 during an armed robbery at his business place, the Bumper car fun park.
The four suspects are said to be from Guyana and Jamaica, they have been identified as A.C, (19) D.F (26) from Guyana and D.E (33) and D.E (23) from Jamaica reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. All four of the suspects already appeared before the judge of instruction and their pretrial detention have been extended.
The police spokesman said three of the suspects are directly involved in the brutal killing of the businessman while the fourth suspect an accessory to the crime since he was the one receiving stolen items from the robbery.
Henson said the person who is directly responsible for the killing of Jean Claude Busquet is now behind bars however, the police department has not ruled out the possible arrests of other suspects that may be involved in the killing. The police have also conducted several house searches during these arrests all of which took place over the Christmas holidays.
The police department has decided to form a new approach when dealing with murder investigations. This new approach is to combine several departments to work as a team.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the team consists of officers from the local police force, the police force of Curacao, as well as the RST. He said the public prosecutor's office believes that this new strategy will be used in murder investigations. The team Henson said was formed for the David Eustace murder investigation, which is still ongoing.

The Soualiga TM Club recently added two new civil servants to their club membership.
Mr. Rodney Richardson, acting head of the Government Informational Service (GIS) and Mrs. Alida Henry-Brown , secretary at the Personnel Affairs Dept.

When asked why they joined the Toastmasters Club, Richardson responded that he decided to join the Toastmasters Club after much thought because " I wanted to challenge myself in an area where I felt I could improve, that area is Public Speaking. Recently I have been called upon to do more presentations, chair meetings and to be more vocal in general. After attending Toastmasters meetings I have seen where I can also learn how to structure the message I am delivering and build confidence as I learn from others. My final reason for joining Toastmasters is to continue to build upon the networking of civil servants that can lead to better working relations within the civil service and beyond. "

The toastmasters hands on approach, "you learn by doing" , its comfortable environment and the social aspect which allows you to meet and interact with persons from all different backgrounds and educational levels is an ideal learning environment for everyone.
Mrs. Henry-Brown said she always wanted to join Toastmasters because she wants to improve her presentation skills. She works a lot with youth, always organizing various activities and the Toastmasters can help her with speaking in public. It will help her build confidence for she tends to freeze when she gets in front of a crowd. She also likes the idea of learning different types of presentations for different occasions. Henry-Brown states that "knowing the information and presenting it is two different things". "I think Toast masters could help me with my work by helping me build my poise and self-assurance. I would like to be able to represent my department optimally when called upon to do so."
Henry-Brown is especially interested in the manual regarding speaking on television, for that takes an extra form of assuredness.

Training is a key tool to assist persons in becoming better speakers, listeners and generally better participants in today's society. Being a member of Toast masters prepares you for the best, it boosts self confidence and allows you to communicate effectively.
The Soualiga Toast masters Corporate Club continues to work with civil servants encouraging them to be their very best.

CAY BAY— A major power outage on Wednesday morning at 5.50am was caused by an earth fault triggering emergency shutdown of several power generators at the Cay Bay Power Plant. The outage lasted more than an hour in some districts.
GEBE technicians along with those from Power Generator Manufacturer Wartsila, managed to make the necessary adjustments to the power grid system and got the generators up and running again.
In the meantime, the two new 11.3 megawatt generators will be officially turned over to GEBE from the manufacturer around December 21 if all goes according to plan where performance testing is concerned.
Currently, during the performance testing phase, which will take approximately one week, the generator sensors and other technical systems will go through a series of tests to make sure the machines don't develop any mechanical problems.
Last Sunday the green light was given that all systems are good and that performance testing could begin.
During the performance testing phase, the two generators will run to full capacity for one week 24 hours per day. Wartsila engineers will be on hand to monitor this process assessing the performance of the engines before they are handed over for commercial operation.
GEBE is looking forward to the handover, which would bring an end to the current period of challenges of frequent power outages due to mechanical problems and a shortage of capacity due to high demand for electricity.
GEBE once again apologizes for the inconvenience caused, however it is beyond the control of the company when these events take place, but every effort is being made to limit these events by having sufficient capacity.

Great Bay – On Friday December 18, 2009 a delegation from Anguilla, led by Minister of Tourism Victor Banks, met with Commissioner of Tourism & Aviation Frans Richardson and Acting Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Mrs. Millicent Acuna-Lopez De Weever amongst others.
The meeting which was coordinated by Commissioner Frans Richardson, was chaired by the Acting Lt. Governor and addressed challenges expressed by Minister Banks which Anguilla inbound and outbound visitors face while in transit via St. Maarten.

Some of the challenges Minister Banks expressed surrounded both air and sea bridge mediums of getting to and from Anguilla. With Anguilla's visitor traffic via Blowing Point seaport terminal representing approx 75% and WallBlake Airport representing the remaining 25%, the need to streamline a more efficient handling/ processing of the immigration documents of visitors in-transit in St. Maarten is important to enhancing the visitor/resident travel experience.
One of the challenges specifically in the case of visitors destined for Anguilla who arrive at the Princess Juliana International Airport, is the cumbersome process of clearing immigration via the long lines. Minister Banks would like to see a more efficient processing of intransit passengers in a separate line. This would reduced the number of passenger misconnects and or delays via air or sea. Additionally the process after clearing immigration in the arrival terminal still faces further logistical challenges, which creates further delays in getting to the departure hall for connecting flights. While during the meeting the airport authorities proposed some solutions, Commissioner Richardson pledged to have further discussions on this process with the Airport authorities and Immigration to see how this situation can be improved, in the shortest possible time.
Other challenges pertains to passengers destined to and from Anguilla via motor vessels. There are some delays that passengers encounter due to the logistical challenges for the clearing process at the Simpsonbay Police Station. The two key pickup and drop off points (Dutchside) are at the former Stop and Shop Dock at the airport and the Police Station at the Simpsonbay Bridge. Parties agreed that this will require a more in depth structural solution to facilitate the process. However now that there is a better understanding of the issues, parties have agreed to diligently workout solutions in the interest of enhancing the tourism traffic both islands enjoy and the resulting economic spinoff thereof.
The Anguilla delegation consisted of Minister of Tourism Victor Banks, Donna Banks (Special Advisor Tourism) and Brenda Proctor (Deputy Director of Immigration). While St. Maarten was represented in the meeting by Acting Lt. Governor Mrs. Millicent Acuna-De Weever, Commissioner Frans Richardson, Geronimo Julliete (Head of Immigration), Regina Labega (Head of Tourism Department), Edward Dest (Tourist office), Fernando William (Advisor to Commissioner Frans Richardson), Eugene Holiday (President-PJIAE), Larry Donker (Oper. Dir PJIAE) and Migdala Artsen (Legal Advisor PJIAE).
A follow up meeting to present short term as well as long term actions and possible solutions, that will be worked out will be scheduled shortly after the parties involved have had a chance to evaluate the situation.

Great Bay: -- They left the sounds of samba and tango in Sao Paolo and Buenos Aires, respectively, as they came to The Friendly Island for a weeklong stay, uncertain of what rhythms they may have to dance to.
The eight (8) Brazilian and three (3) Argentinean journalists who were hosted by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau during a CVC press trip quickly fell in love with the multiple rhythms that set the island aside as one of the most exciting destinations they have ever been to.
Following an Island tour the day after their arrival, the group that also included a dozen high-performing travel agents from Brazil, got to see and taste what makes St. Maarten special.
"The food here is simply fantastic," said Luciane Horcel of the Gazeta de Povo, a daily newspaper that carries a tourism section which reaches a readership of 232,000 in Brazil. The rest of the group would chime in with thumbs up for the gastronomic fare they were treated to throughout their stay. "Now, I understand why they call St. Maarten the Gastronomic Capital of the Caribbean," she added.
Gabriel Guirao, who writes for the online trade publication Panrotas that receives over 7,000 unique visitors daily, turned 22 on the very day the press group arrived on a charter flight from Brazil. Dinner at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort's Point restaurant was followed by a night out at Tantra night club.
"Wow, I thought Brazilians could party; St. Maartiners beat them," he said without any signs of exhaustion the next day. "I don't want to leave, I don't want to go on that plane back to Brazil," he said feigning tears on the eve of their departure.
"Everything has been just perfect," said Ms. Priscilla Bures, Media Relations officer of CVC Brazil.
The group's itinerary included visits to the Butterfly Farm, the Guavaberry Emporium, the St. Martin Museum, and several fun activities such as the 12-Meter Regatta on board of authentic America's Cup yachts, snorkeling trip on the Golden Eagle and kayaking, courtesy of TriSport in Simpson Bay.
Whether dancing to Caribbean sounds dished out by DJ Ruby on the Boardwalk, or DJ Blaize at Secret; whether being briefed by poet/author/publisher Lasana Sekou about the island's literature and culture and the work of House of Nehesi Publishers or taking photos of the sunset at where else, Sunset Beach Bar at Maho, the Brazilian and Argentinian journalists "fell in love with St. Maarten", as Vera Achcar of our Brazilian representative firm said.
The shopping experience was just "out of this world", in the words of Barbara Puzoni Raffaeli Pereira of Viajar pelo Mundo travel and tourism monthly magazine with a readership of over 180,000.
"Brazilians love to shop," observed Lisa Coffi of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. That may have been an understatement: one of the Brazilians who came with a larger group on the same CVC charter flight returned with her luggage weighing over 80 kilos!
Apart from shopping, St. Maarten's culture was what caught the interest of Susana Vilma Marinucci of Clarin newspaper, Argentina's largest daily publication with a readership of 1.7 million.
"There is such diversity, such variety here," she said with an enthusiastic smile. "The only thing missing here is the tango," she added with a wink.
Both Vitor Hugo Brandalise Junior of O Estado do Sao Paolo daily newspaper with almost a million readers and José Roberto Serra Pinto of the daily O Globo (1.1 million readers) could not hide their excitement about the island.
"This is Paradise!" exclaimed Vitor Hugo, while Jose Roberto nodded repeatedly in agreement.

Great Bay – When seasoned travel writer Melody Wren of the Toronto Star and Grand magazine went to inform her friend a teacher at the 'Sir Isaac Brock' kindergarten class in Guelph, Ontario, Canada of her impending press trip to St. Maarten little did she know that the children in that class would be so moved by her reference to I CAN FOUNDATION and the work its founder, Cassandra Gibbs had begun that they would collect toys for her to take to them.
Wren packed a separate suitcase full of these gifts and agreed to play Santa Claus only that her sleigh was a WestJet flight that brought her to St. Maarten for the first time on a trip hosted by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau which also included several other colleagues from the US.
On the Sunday afternoon when she had a free time, Wren jumped in a taxi from the Westin hotel and asked to be taken to the Foundation – home for orphaned children.
"How wonderful it was to be among the children and to see their faces as they opened the gifts," she said.
"Miss Cassandra Gibbs – Debbie, I think she's also called – is doing such a great job that it has inspired me along with some other colleagues to do something more substantive," she continued.
"Felicia and I are going ahead with a foundation for Caribbean children, and will be setting up a website as soon as possible," Wren further disclosed, referring to Felicia Persaud of Caribbean World News, who was also on the press trip. "Alexis (Lipsitz) that writes the Frommers guidebooks is going to include it in the next guidebook so loads of tourists will be directed to it."
Ms. Lipsitz was also part of the US-Canadian press group that recently spent some four days getting to know the destination.
According to Wren, the Ontarian kindergarten students would be thrilled to know that gifts were not only delivered but also that they have inspired a whole new charity effort by journalists who are normally on the hunt for similar stories than being the protagonists of such stories themselves.

Philipsburg: --- The son of Inspector Carlton Philips is calling on the Police Management team to publish the report on the investigation conducted by the Police Internal Affairs of Curacao. Norwin Philips in his letter said he has been following the case against his father Carlton Philips very closely since the management team of the police forces accused his father of destroying evidence while working at the CID department of the Police Force of St. Maarten. Earlier this year Inspector Carlton Philips in an open letter accused the police management of self-enrichment as well as falsely accusing him of a crime. He said since that time he has requested an investigation hoping to clear his name however, after seven months of pleading with management, the prosecutor's office and the local chief of police to no avail Philips took his case to the media hoping that the police management as well as the Minister of Justice would intervene.
The letter from Norwin Philips reads as follows.

OPEN LETTER TO THE MANAGEMENT OF THE POLICE FORCE OF ST. MAARTEN.

Philipsburg December 27, 2009.

As we are moving speedily towards the ending of the year 2009 and moving with great expectations towards the beginning of the year 2010, I am wondering what happened to the investigation that was carried out against my father, inspector Carlton PHILIPS.
Almost a full year has gone by since he has been accused of destruction of information during the time that he worked at the Criminal Intelligence Department. He left the department in the year 2002. Because of this allegation, his police carrier has been negatively impacted. He kindly requested that an impartial investigation be carried out in order to clear his good name and his honor to be restored.
After waiting for seven long months, he was forced to go public with the hope that an investigation will be carried out to prove his innocence.
Management of the police force never expected him to go public. Members of the "Internal Affairs Division" from Curacao were brought in to investigate my father in an attempt to punish him for going public.
According to information the investigation has been completed, a report has been submitted to the relevant authorities, but up to this date this report is being kept top secret. I am certain that if there were any evidence that my father had done anything wrong, you would have been happy to inform the public. I wonder if there is something in this report that the public should not know.
By means of this letter, I am respectfully requesting you to publish the result of the investigation, apologize publicly to my father and bring this episode in his life to rest. I know that my father will never forget, but I believe he will be able to forgive you some day.

Norwin PHILIPS

Philipsburg:---The Special Robbery Unit has reported, that with regards to the spate of armed robberies that took place recently in which two suspects were arrested that the investigation is still ongoing. The police department confirms that the suspects in custody were busy committing robberies in several areas on the island such as, Sucker-Garden, Cole bay, Cay Hill, Simpson bay Middle region, South Reward, Pelican, Philipsburg and French Quarter.

On the first day of their arrest, they had admitted to 5 robberies. As the investigation continued the suspects have admitted to have committed seven more, making the total of armed robberies they have committed to a total of 12. The investigation is still ongoing.

 

 

Philipsburg: --- The Executive Council has approved the appointment of five members of the Cooperate Governance Council announced leader of government William Marlin. Marlin said these persons would be on the board for a period of four years an evaluation on their performance would be done prior to the end of their term. Marlin warned that even members of the island council had sent out misconceptions on the term of this board.

Those appointed to the council are Minerva Vlaun an economist, Agnes Gumbs an accountant, Maria van der sluis Plantz a lawyer, who is currently residing in Holland, retired civil servant Louis Duzanson, and well-known businessman Francis Carty.

The board he said would soon begin their work, which is to advise government in several areas.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- Leader of Government William Marlin told members of the media at the executive press briefing that he recently shared his concerns with the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba on the process being used for the Brooks Tower Accord.

Marlin said the guidelines that are being used on St. Maarten are not clear and it is different from what is used in Curacao. He felt the program that is currently being used on Curacao is much more user friendly than the one that is used on St. Maarten. He said persons living on Curacao illegally for years do not have to go through the rigorous exercise of providing proof for each year. Marlin said he used several cases as example to the Minister in order to show the process is not compatible.

Marlin said there are persons who are living on St. Maarten for years and they have their passports to prove they have never left the island but these persons are asked to provide at least three proofs per year they have lived on the island illegally before their application for the Brooks Tower Permit is accepted.

He felt that the system and the requirements in place are utter nonsense and if the Brooks Tower is meant to help people to come out from their hiding places to regulate their status. He said with a process that is currently in place would send these people further into hiding.

Marlin said the process that is used on St. Maarten is not the same that is used in Curacao and he brought this matter up with the justice Minister who agreed with him and has promised to look at the matter.

Marlin said he has been meeting with the Minister of Justice on a weekly basis to monitor some of the processes. Reasons he gave for these meetings were that St. Maarten would soon be responsible for justice as well as the police.

Marlin said the recruitment drive for a police chief on St. Maarten has started and he informed the Minister that St. Maarten would also want to be part of the selection process. He said whoever is the candidate for the seat must also have the blessings of the Island government.

The island leader said even though this is a responsibility of the central government and the Minister of Justice very soon St. Maarten would be handling its own affairs and it would not be fair to leave the island out. Marlin said some five top police officers would soon be recruited to strengthen the police force. He said that so far four persons have been identified of which two would be selected for two different positions.

Marlin said that within short the two persons would be interviewed shortly, while the process continues to find the other three candidates.

 

 

(Willemstad, Curacao) – A task force to oversee the transfer of the shares of Winair, as well as its service to Saba and Statia has been installed by Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs Roland Duncan in agreement with the Dutch Minister of Traffic and Communication Ir. Camille Eurlings.
Appointed to the Task force where: Mr. S.J. Fransciso representing the Minister of Traffic and Communications, Ms. Ellen Bien, representing the Dutch Minister of Traffic and Waterworks, Mr. Kenneth Kong representing the Island Government of St. Maarten, and representing the Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs, Ms. Nadya Nercisio, who will also chair the task force. The SOAB will provide administrative and financial assistance to the task force.

Minister Duncan will be on the island of St. Maarten the entire week for several meetings:
He will meet the Executive Council on Tuesday morning regarding the assistance to be provided by the Central Government as well as the transfer of tasks of the several Ministries and Central Government authorities.
On Wednesday the Minister will participate with his colleagues in the Central Government, Minister G. Ter Horst and State Secretary Bijleveld of the Netherlands, Commissioner Zita Jesus-Leito, and Commissioner William Marlin in the last Political Steering Group meeting of the year.
On Thursday the Minister will attend an information session for Central Government employees from 9 am at Belair Community Center*.
Other governmental meetings are also scheduled during the week.

For more information please contact Ms. Ari Sutton at the Ministry of Constitutional and Home Affairs at Brooks Towers, Phone 542-9081.

Philipsburg: ---National Alliance Senator and Island Council member George Pantophlet said he was a bit surprised by the motion presented in the Dutch Parliament Second Chamber against the Brooks Tower Accord.
Pantophlet reminded the public of famous WODC Report. The report had mentioned several issues such as the Judiciary, illegal immigration. It had questioned the fact that although the economy of St. Maarten seemed strong it was not reflected in the government's coffers.
The Brooks Tower Accord has exposed the exploitation and or abuse of workers it exposed the fact that approximately 70% of businesses are not paying their taxes and this practice continues to date. The senator said only recently he received a as call from an employee whose employer refused to give them a pay slip.
Based on information he received from the Inspectorate of taxes only 30% of businesses and persons are carrying the load in taxes. "What we need from our Kingdom partner is cooperation in dealing with the difficult issues that is facing country to be St. Maarten". Pantophlet said that if there is a time to start with cooperation its now. The Netherlands Antilles in general and St. Maarten in particular is trying to find a solution for the many undocumented immigrants and they need all the assistance they can get.
He made clear that St. Maarten is not rewarding illegality but are trying to deal with this problem. If all goes well St. Maarten will become country on October 10, 2010 and government is doing its utmost to ensure that they know what our reality is.
Ironically, the same fears expressed by the Dutch now on the Brooks Tower Accord are those, which are being expressed by St. Maarten in being overrun by Europeans. Furthermore, access to the Netherlands is not as easy as one would think.
There are stringent requirements in place. First of all a working and residence permit does not give immigrants free access to the Netherlands as the person would require a visitor's visa. Where the Dutch Nationality is concerned, one has to be registered five consecutive years and has to pass through a rigid test. "If we would look at the statistics, less people are coming into consideration for the Dutch Nationality than in the past." The senator said. At present, the Minister of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles is responsible for all five islands. When St. Maarten becomes country, this responsibility will be in the hands of the Minister of Justice of St. Maarten, and government already has some ideas as to how to address the immigration issues. I can start by pointing fingers as to who is responsible for what but that is water under the bridge and does not solve the problem. "I think our Kingdom partner should applaud our efforts in tackling such a daunting task and see us as willing to grab the bull by the horn." Pantophlet said.

PHILIPSBURG - The Soualiga Optimist Club of St. Maarten is encouraging students in our local schools to contemplate the question "The Internet: Today's Evolution or Tomorrow's Menace? " as part of the Optimist International Essay contest for 2010.
The Soualiga Optimist Club will judge the local students' essays based on the theme The Internet: Today's Evolution or Tomorrow's Menace? , and determine the top winners. Winners will receive awards and the winning essay will be sent to the district level for judging. Essays will be judged at the district level and each district will send top entries to the International level. College scholarships are available for top winners at the district and international level.
"Young students today have so many fresh ideas about the world and their future," Club President Olga Mussington said. "As Optimists, it is our goal to encourage them and do what we can to bring out the best in each of them. This gives them a wonderful opportunity to tap into their creativity and pursue possible scholarships at the same time, "Mussington said.
Essays application forms with guidelines may be collected at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library or the Rupert I. Maynard Youth Community Center in St. Peters. All essays must be submitted along with a birth certificate and essay application form before January 31st , 2010. Essays should be submitted at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. Persons desirous of having the application form sent to them digitally, should email the Soualiga Optimist club at the email address provided below.
The Soualiga Optimist Club has been participating in the Optimist International Essay Contest for the past two years since the club was chartered in October 2007. The local competition has been won by Abigail Hermoso of Learning Unlimited and Bert Jno Baptist of St. Maarten Academy.
Persons interested in finding out more about the Essay Contest may contact Optimist Dwayne McRae at 523-1076 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Soualiga Optimist Club is currently embarking on a membership drive. Persons interested in learning more about the Club are invited to attend its general meeting on Saturday December 12th at 7:00 p.m. at the Rupert I. Maynard Youth Community Center in St. Peters.

Philipsburg: --- Reliable information reaching SMN News states that police on the Dutch side of the island have made a break through in the case of David Eustace (Priest) who was killed on Friday October 02 2009 at the entrance of Casa Blanka adult entertainment club. The man arrested has been identified as C.B from French Quarter. SMN News has learnt that the alleged killer is well known to law enforcement on both sides of the island and he was arrested two days ago somewhere on the Dutch side of the island. The source said that C.B  was also wanted for a crime he committed in 2007. 

Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of C.B but said he was not arrested for the murder of David Eustace. Asked for what C.B was arrested  Mud said he will  not divulge anymore information on the case, since the investigations are still ongoing. "All I would say at this point is that we have arrested CB."
Information reaching SMN News states that police had the information on the alleged suspect less than 10 minutes after the broad daylight killing took place. The source said the first person that approached the bus in which the victim was killed was given description of the green Samurai jeep in which the killers escape. It is understood that the suspect was seen speeding away from the scene of the crime. SMN News understands that the main eyewitness had given police all description jeep  they knew was also from French Quarter.

According to information reaching SMN News, Eustace was shot on the right side of his abdomen with a shotgun. He was shot three times at point blank range from the passenger side of the Chevy bus. The shooting it is alleged seems more like a hit and not any type of robbery. Eustace was driving a bus, which had one of his close friends Leroy Richardson (Sweet Leroy) inside the bus when they left Casa Blanca. Police found at least four spent shells belonging to a shotgun on the scene.
This media house has been reliably informed that a green Samurai a soft-top jeep with either two occupants was in the area of the adult entertainment club. The number plate on the vehicle it said were covered with a piece of cloth while the shooters remained unmasked.

GREAT BAY,– The Preventive Health Department (PHD) reports that four dengue fever cases have been reported within a short period of time. An appeal is going out to the community to take urgent measures in order to prevent a dengue fever outbreak.
The four cases range in age from 17 to 36 and are from different residential districts.
Residents are urged to take proper control measures around their homes to reduce breeding of the Ades aegypti mosquito which has the potential to transmit dengue fever.
To avoid being bitten by a mosquito, use repellent and wear long sleeves shirts/blouses as well as pants. Place screens at windows and doors.
Public action is necessary to keep the mosquito population in check, and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. The recent rains open up the possibility of stagnant water being found in items around the home.
Immediately after the rain, search for and eliminate all water accumulated in containers and help your community to prevent dengue.
The Ades aegypti mosquito breeds mostly in domestic environments as a result of human activity. The Aedes aegypti mosquito lays her eggs in clear (clean) stagnant water. In only one week these eggs hatch and grow into adult mosquitoes. Residents therefore have a major role to play in eliminating the aforementioned mosquito and reducing the possibility of another dengue fever outbreak.
The Preventive Health Department is calling on households and businesses to keep their surroundings (in and outdoors) mosquito free.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults, but seldom causes death. Symptoms are similar to the flu e.g. fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea/vomiting, rash, and hemorrhagic manifestations.
If you have the aforementioned symptoms, ask your physician to request a lab test for dengue.
If you have dengue, rest and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid pain relievers that contain aspirin and non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen.
Preventive actions that every household should take are: Debris, old tires and standing clear/clean water in yards are the main source and breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases. These areas should be immediately eliminated.
Immediately check for clear/clean standing water in roof spouts, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, saucers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around your homes and businesses. Where clear/clean standing water exists, one can use small amounts of kerosene, just to cover the surface as a measure to prevent mosquito breeding or just get rid of the container.
In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these properly covered and check every three days to make sure that mosquito's haven't laid any eggs known as larva. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the water.
Cooperate with the public health inspectors who may request to check the exterior and interior of your premises for mosquito breeding sites.

GREAT BAY - The WIFOL union continues to express dissatisfaction with the manner in which the USM president and board are handling the commencement of the collective labour agreement (C.L.A.) negotiations and other operational matters at the island's sole institution of higher learning. These remarks come after the USM president finally sent the union a letter on behalf of the board—after at least three formal requests—stating that the board was unavailable to meet with the union to commence negotiation for a collective labour agreement (C.L.A.) until January 2010.

Some of the operational matters the union is concerned about include the president and board's ignoring of staff after they had submitted a written petition requesting that the dean selection process be reviewed and declared null and void. Since the nomination of the dean, the staff continues to show their disagreement with the appointment of the dean in a number of ways, including wearing all-black, walking out of meetings, and writing of letters concerning the dean's behavior. In one example, the staff have questioned how after only two days on the job, the dean could issue a warning letter to a subordinate employee who had received accolades and served with distinction under four previous deans. Another long-time, senior staff member, the Education Division head, was issued a strongly worded letter by the dean within the first month on the job, and since then, the dean and the president have refused to meet with the Education Division head to resolve the matter although WIFOL attempted to mediate. Neither has the president or the board acknowledged or responded to the staff's written petition, which was submitted on October 28.

Without the knowledge or consultation of the language division head, USM administration submitted the name and credentials of the division head to secure USONA funding for a major project, which was prepared by the former dean (R. Pribble) and the current dean while she was "accreditation officer," without the input of the Language Division. The matter is currently in the hands of an attorney. Another USM staff member had to secure the services of an attorney to fight for her compensation for work she had performed. To date, the staff member has not been paid even though the USONA funding has already been received by USM.

Just recently the USM president told certain staff members that at least two additional board members have either resigned or are on the verge of resigning as a direct consequence of the board president's interfering in the day-to-day affairs of the University. From WIFOL's perspective, the board owes the staff and the general public an explanation for the unrest at the board level and the direction in which it is taking USM.

The staff is speculating whether the USM president's inaction on these and other matters, such as the dean's incompetence, are due to her expressed political aspirations. Furthermore, staff is also apprehensive about who will be acting president when the USM president is off-island.

The WIFOL union is calling on the USM president and board to ...rectify these and other matters, including the settlement of severance pay for former USM employee, Aida Bryson, who was forced out of service after serving 19 years at USM and 13 at Mullet Bay, simply because she joined the union. The WIFOL is also hoping to have the CLA negotiations commence and conclude within short in the new year so that, USM can progress into the institution to serve the needs of the St. Martin community.
St. Maarten need the current USM or another USM to produce the competent recourse personnel needed for country St. Martin.

 

Minister Roland Duncan, Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs sent a letter to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica congratulating him on the landslide victory of the Dominica Labor Party in the recent elections. Duncan commended Prime Minister Skerrit for the confidence entrusted him by the Dominican people and pledged to continue working with the Dominican government to strengthen the bonds between the island nations.
Duncan visited Dominica several times during his trips to the OECS over the past years and has discussed relevant tourism and trade issues with the Commonwealth.

It is that time of the year when families and friends are coming together to share in the joy and celebration of the Christmas spirit.
One of the amazing things about the Christmas holidays is that is never grows old. Each year it comes and goes and we look forward to its return next year.
Christmas has a special meaning for each of us, whether we are rich or poor, old or young. Christmas for all of us is a time to celebrate, and share the joy we feel when family and friends come together.
It is a time for sharing, bonding and for spending quality time.
It is also a time for forgiveness, generosity, compassion and tolerance.
As a nation, we must remember those less fortunate and give something to help provide joy and comfort to the elderly, the homeless and the lonely.
Let each of us as a community try to share something with someone this Christmas. May it be a small gift, a meal, a helping hand or just to say Merry Christmas and May God Bless You.
I urge all St. Maarteners and other inhabitants of the island to take this Christmas spirit into the New Year 2010 and beyond for the good of our island nation.
On behalf of my family, Angela, Joaquim and Keshia and members of my cabinet, I extend sincere wishes for a Christmas filled with peace, love and thanksgiving.
Wishing all St. Maarteners, residents and visitors alike a happy, prosperous, healthy and safe holiday season.
Merry Christmas St. Maarten!

CAY BAY— During the past couple of days including Monday, the GEBE Power Plant experienced some mechanical challenges. On Monday between 10am and 11am, Generator DG#8 went offline, resulting in a loss of approximately five megawatts. Customers in the Cupecoy area, Mullet Bay, Beacon Hill, Simpson Bay Village, and Airport Road were without electricity for a short period of time.

A load shedding schedule was drafted and placed on the GEBE website (www.nvgebe.com) announcing other areas that would experience load shedding, however due to the expedience of the GEBE technicians, the problem was located and resolved thereby avoiding having to implement load shedding for other districts on the island.

In the meantime, work continues on the two new 11.3 megawatt generators. Preparations to bring the generators online are going according to schedule and full testing is expected to commence within the next three weeks.

Last Friday and Saturday, GEBE experienced some mechanical challenges with several generators. The outage on Friday lasted approximately 30 minutes while the outage over the weekend on Saturday, affected customers in some districts of up to two hours.

GEBE technicians therefore spent the entire weekend troubleshooting and making the necessary repairs in order to ensure a consistent supply of electricity.

 

 

GROS-ISLET, Saint Lucia - A wave of coaching innovation swept Saint Lucia’s swimming, when the Saint Lucia Amateur Swimming Association hosted the Total Immersion (TI) coaching clinic from 14th to 20th November 2009 under the guidance of TI specialist Coach Kimberly Bade from the USA..

The clinic was held at the Rodney Heights Aquatic Centre and sponsored by the International Swimming Federation (FINA).

The 22 participants were all Swim coaches; 18 from Saint Lucia and 4 from overseas. They benefitted from the comprehensive program and hands on training from Coach Bade.

Coach Kimberly Bade originates from New York and is a Total Immersion certified coach, who has conducted such clinics all over the USA with this being her first foray into the Caribbean..

The Saint Lucia coaches were Jamie Peterkin, Diane Worrell, David Peterkin, Andy Edward, Filomena Day, Sebastien Day, Vanessa Eugene, Amarae Arthur, Brian Charles, Yasmin Tyson, Andre Castang, Tom Spiegelburg, Dian Williams, Lauren Perineau, Iyahode Bukinolo, Lily Bergasse, Karen Beaubrun and Shervan Benjamin.

From overseas were Zoe Swatton (Antigua), Roosevelt Romain and Rachel Modeste (Grenada), and Rickydene Alexander (St Vincent).

Total Immersion was originated by Terry Laughlin, and is a revolutionary approach to teaching swimming, which brings results far faster than conventional methods, and helps any student master a fluent, efficient and beautiful technique.

The style of swimming it stresses can be beneficial to entry-level swimmers and also for distance swimmers, as the goal is to make swimming more natural.

The instruction focuses on four essential skills, which are non-instinctive and counter-intuitive to most swimmers.

 

 

On Monday November 30th the Governor of St. Maarten the Honorable Franklyn Richards was paid a courtesy visit by Ambassador Rong – Chuan Wu of the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in St. Kitts and Nevis.

On Monday November 30th the Governor of St. Maarten the Honorable Franklyn Richards was paid a courtesy visit by Prefet delegue of French St. Martin and St. Barthelemy Mr. Jacques Simonnet.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- Leader of Government William Marlin at Wednesday’s press briefing said he met R.C Wu from the Embassy of China in St. Kitts. Marlin said both of these meetings were interesting since the consul of China is very much interested in trade mission on St. Maarten. The island leader of government said Wu is interested in featuring products from Taiwan to St. Maarten.

Marlin said Wu indicated that already St. Maarten has several products that are made in Taiwan on their shelves but they are interested in coordinating a trade mission to St. Maarten from Miami with companies that manufacture their goods in Taiwan. Marlin said these people believe that St. Maarten provides an excellent possibility for a hub between Miami and the rest of the Caribbean. He said St. Maarten is centrally located and also has the necessary facilities in place including the harbour.

Marlin said Wu also spoke of introducing a certain technology, which would cater to modern day farming and agriculture. He said St. Maarten has the same issues that Taiwan has regarding land space for farming and they have created ways to farm.

The only challenge that St. Maarten would have to sort out to have this technology introduced is water availability. He said once this is solved the consul is willing to provide the technical assistance which would allow St. Maarten to branch off in the modern farming business.

Another aspect that was discussed is for St. Maarten is to look at the Chinese market regarding tourism. Even though China is far away there are people that travel, a lot and they do have a lot of experience in the hospitality trade, which they would also want to share. The parties he said also discussed improving the internet services, which would assist in diversifying the economy they would need good communication services.

 

 

A top key official of regional airline Winair has described the company’s station meeting as being very successful. Vice President of Marketing & Sales and Customer Services, Claudio Buncamper said that the management of the airline company is very pleased with the outcome of the second annual Network Stations meeting. The two days meeting was held in St Maarten at the Port De Plaicance Hotel.

Among those attending this meeting were management representative of Winair Handlers at each Island that Winair serves, name Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barths, Anguilla, Nevis, Montserrat, Antigua & Barbuda and St. Maarten. Many stations were represented by one or two members as the company sought to ensure that a number of issues were effectively addressed in an attempt to further advance and develop the airline. All of Winair customer service supervisors based in St. Maarten also attended this meeting.

Vice President of Marketing & Sales and Customer Services, Claudio Buncamper said that the two day meeting was a packed one as it sought to address a number of issues among them being Customer Services, Sales, Policies and Procedures, Operational Matters, Training, Systems, Issues presently being faced, Upcoming Winter Season and a Winair Update. He noted that he is overwhelmed by the participants’ response and zeal in continuing to raise the bar of the airline’s service and quality. Ö, I am very satisfied and pleased with the response from the representatives as they have demonstrated the willingness and determination to continue improving,” he said.

Buncamper pointed out that in an effort to limit the challenges associated in executing such events that the Management of the airline sought to ensure that all participants stayed at the same hotel. He said that while the meeting was held over two days participants were required to spend four days thus allowing them to be properly prepared for the meeting.

The VP of marketing disclosed that the extra two days helped to enhance the quality of the meeting as it assisted in creating a platform for the participants to socialize with each other to better enhance the team spirit. “Management within Winair continues to seek to enhance and develop the level of service that we provide to the public and therefore we recognize that to achieve such we need to ensure that our team is properly trained and prepared thus we see\this meeting as a hallmark of achieving our primary objectives,” Buncamper noted.

When asked to describe the meeting, Buncamper described it as being very successful noting that pertinent and pivotal issues were adequately addressed. He declared that the participants that attended the meeting are in a better position to deliver increased and enhanced services thuds continuing demonstrating the determination and commitment of Winair in its provision of service to its customers. He added that among others communication among the various stations continues to increased declaring that each year attempts are being made in ensuring that more effective and efficient communication is developed.

He noted also that as the Christmas season fastly approaches the travelling public should note that all attempts are being made to ensure that they can experience a hassle free Christmas travel. He said that one of his company’s priority will be to ensuring that the company’s impressive baggage record along with its excellent service of quality and service in travel is maintained thus ensuring that its customers remain happy.

“We continue to strive to ensure that we continue to deliver service and quality as we recognize that during this very busy Christmas season that we can ensure that its hassle and stress free for our passengers,” Buncamper reiterated.

 

 

GREAT BAY:---Health Care workers on St. Maarten recently completed, and received a certificate for completion of an HIV [e] Education workshop, organized by the Island Government's HIV/AIDS Program Management Team, managed by Program Manager Suzette Moses.
The group took part in two days (Friday and Saturday) of intense interactive activities, while the third day was at the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall, which culminated with the handing out of certificates.
Welcoming the group and saying a few words was Moses, who was pleased to host the group but as well spread more specific program information about how to deal with HIV/AIDS infected persons more effectively.
Moses said that "We are here after 3 months, some have finished the workbooks via the internet, while others not, including myself, but we need to continue, and hopefully this workshop will give us the inspiration for doing so. Also, during the workshop, it is important for you to give your feedback so that we could improve and/or fine tune the workshop." And improving is crucial, especially as the red campaign goes into its 3rd year when testing will be done. These numbers will give us a more accurate account of the HIV/AIDS situation on St. Maarten. From this point we can really have a basis from which to work and further develop policy, Moses said.

The aim of HIV Education is to provide healthcare workers with complete and updated information on all aspects of treatment and care for patients with HIV/AIDS.
The organization charged with the workshop is Health[e]Foundation, which is a not-for-profit organization based in Amsterdam, established in the belief that a good healthcare system is essential for sound socio-economic growth in developing countries. It focuses on sustainable methods of training and educating healthcare workers on treatment and prevention of communicable and poverty-related diseases by means of a distance-based e-learning system.
Present at the meeting were health care workers from different fields, Medical Doctors, Nurses, Sector Health Care, Lab, among others in the health profession.

Dawn Beach:--- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba on Wednesday was given the first opportunity to make a presentation on the Brooks Tower Accord and how the process functions at the opening of the Political Steering Group Meeting that is currently held on St. Maarten. A motion was filed against the BTA process that is currently taking place in the Netherlands Antilles in the second chamber last week. Jacoba has to also give St. Maarten some answers pertaining to the project Safety Plan St. Maarten since funding for this project was approved. She would also have to go into details about the police and the functioning of the police, the expansion of the prison in Curacao while that was not happening on St. Maarten. Jacoba also had to provide answers on the improvement of immigration on St. Maarten. Already the Minister is saying St. Maarten lacks land space for the expansion of the prison.
The Minister of Health would also have to give answers pertaining to her foundation and the 6.6 million guilders. It is reported that the Minister wants to buy medical equipments with this money for the Netherlands Antilles.

Leader of Government William Marlin told reporters at the beginning of the meeting that they were expecting to get answers to some pressing issues. He said St. Maarten would be looking to get some answers on the dismantling process and the division of assets. Marlin said one of the concerns St. Maarten shares is that St. Maarten is shortchanged since Curacao already has all the necessary infrastructures. He said already the BES islands have asked Holland to sit in these meetings since BES islands are looking for their share in the division of assets. Marlin said St. Maarten would also be seeking clarity on the funds that the Netherlands Antilles has especially if there is a surplus.
Marlin said they were to discuss the taking over of the debts of the Antilles by Holland and he had expected some fierce discussions.

More on this story later – as the Meetings are currently ongoing.

Great Bay – St. Maarten was recently represented at the 18th conference of Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) on Sustainable Tourism in St. Lucia.

Among those attending the four-day conference, was Windward Islands Airways International NV (Winair) chairman of the board, Mr. A. Fernando William who had been one of several invited panelists at a forum discussing the state of Caribbean tourism from an airline perspective. The panel consisted of an impressive line up of professionals, including the Honorable Minister of Tourism and Aviation of St. Lucia, Mr. Allen Chastanet.

Topics focused on during Mr. William's presentation were challenges faced by small Caribbean based airlines in an increasingly competitive market, traveler concerns regarding the cost of airfares and how airlines, airport and governments need to work closer together in improving the visitor experience.

Following the presentation, quite a number of questions were posed by the audience in a effort to better understand the aviation industry's policy on the whole as it relates to the environment, fares, sustainability and incentives for the traveler.

Held from December 3rd to December 7th, the event, known as CMEx, was well attended by a cross section of business professionals, media personalities, tourism directors and CTO representatives. Delegates attending came from across the Caribbean, the United States, Latin America and as far as the African continent.

While in St. Lucia, Mr. William, as Chairman of WINAIR, had some exploratory talks about the prospects of WINAIR providing additional airlift to and from that island as well. During recent months the airline which celebrates 48 years of existence, has been asked to consider providing airlift.
Mr. William who has an extensive background in local, regional and international business development as well as in the tourism sector said that he was "very pleased to have been selected to be amongst the distinguished panel of professionals to speak at CMEx. "

Since its inception in October 2001, CMEx has become the premier communications organization promoting sustainable tourism, through media and smart partnerships, to create holistic wealth for all peoples, including those in Latin America, the Caribbean and other Emerging Markets.

CMEx began with the inspiration of Counterpart International to improve the quality of media coverage of sustainable tourism in the Caribbean. Further, it sought to increase the input of the media in the design of sustainable tourism policies, and highlight the necessity of tourism to the economies of small island states.
Extending invitations to members of the media has proven to be one of the quickest ways for CMEx to spread the sustainable tourism message to the masses. The organizers of the conference, (Dr. Basil Springer and Mr. Bevan Springer) promote the mingling of journalists, both Caribbean and international, and members of the hospitality sector, in order that synergies will result for the betterment of island peoples.

Philipsburg: --- The Police Zero Tolerance Team along with the Soualiga patrol and the bike patrol assisted in conducting a search on some 51 school buses on Monday. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that the search was successful and that students are not taking much weapons to school on the school buses. Henson said it is clear that the past searches were effective and they intend to continue conducting these controls.
The team seized a pornographic DVD, a marijuana cigarette, one small folding knife, and one folding trimming saw was found. All items the police spokesman said has been confiscated.

Philipsburg: --- Police managed to apprehend a man identified as W.B after a short chase on December 15. According to police spokesman Ricardo Henson, W.B was in a car bearing French number plate in the Mullet Bay area. Henson said the suspect along with the driver of the car who managed to escape were busy breaking into cars in the Mullet Bay area. Henson said police received a phone call notifying then that the two culprits that was in a car 717 BA 971 was busy breaking into cars. He said when police spotted the car and the suspects they took at high speed to evade their arrest.
The police patrol decided to pursue the culprits into the Beacon Hill area, during that chase the driver lost control of the vehicle and somehow could not continue driving. The two suspects then jumped out of the car and began running. Police also decided to continue the chase on foot and they apprehended the suspect. Henson said the suspect identified as W.B resisted his arrest heavily but he was overpowered by the officers. The suspect is from the Dominican Republic. Henson said police also found a number of tools and other stolen items, the suspect's identification were found in the vehicle. This case is still being investigated.

Windward Islands Airways International (Winair) hosted its first Tourist Office conference. The one day conference was held in St Marten and was attended by a number of tourist board representatives from the airline's destinations.

Vice President and Director of Marketing & Sales / Customer Services, Claudio Buncamper said that the historic conference was aimed at focusing on ways to enhance the working relationship in the future with the representatives from the Tourist Offices from the different islands. He spoke of the importance of such a conference noting that it is critically important in ensuring the airline's relationship and performance are improved.

During the conference, Buncamper spoke about the airline's performance and the different aspects and challenges of his company's operation. In his update on the performance of the company, he spoke about future plans and initiatives that will be rolled out in 2010. This will help boost the already great services the airlines offers. The conference was hailed a success.

Commenting on the performance of the airline in 2008 and 2009, Buncamper said that 2009 saw an increase in the level of quality and service that was delivered. He however pointed out that there were increased challenges that the airline has been facing for the past two years. Consequently, management has sought avenues and ways of enhancing the service they deliver to passengers. He noted that a number of upgrades were done for the customers and upgrading of the airlines services.

During the one day conference a detailed plan of their activities planned for 2010 was presented by the representatives of the various tourist boards. Both Winair and the islands have agreed to explore possibilities of working together. Buncamper reported that Winair decided that a further meeting will be held with the various tourist boards on their islands in an effort to iron out pressing issues with the various stakeholders; among them being hotels, taxi, tour operators, restaurants among others. He disclosed that his airline will pursue the possibilities of combining packages with the tourist board thus being able to bring more affordable packages to passengers.

Buncamper quizzed on his thoughts of the meetings said he is very satisfied with the outcome. He noted that the meeting stressed the number of possibilities both his company and the tourist boards can pursue in enhancing and strengthening their relationships. "The meeting enforced that we can certainly work together thus being able to facilitate and increase our regional passenger traffic as we seek to ensure that air travel remains low and very affordable," he said.

The VP and Director of Marketing & Sales / Customer Services suggested that it would be very important for the St. Maarten Tourist Office to form a committee and have pre-meetings with representatives;(travel agents, tour operators) from the different islands. He stressed that this initiative will significantly help promote and publicize the work and activities of the tourist boards. He said that based on the feedback from such an initiative it will also help in better informing the decision makers on how to proceed. He gave his company's commitment that he would be available to attend these meetings after mid January 2010 taking into consideration that the airline is going through its high season which is seeing increased passenger traffic this year.

Buncamper also stressed to the tourist officials that his company was currently reviewing the immigration policy in SBH. He said that they see it as being very strict noting that when someone enters with incorrect documentation and is sent out immediately, the airline is still fined EUR 5,000 per passenger. This, Buncamper said results in the airlines suffering innocently from such a policy which he noted is too harsh.

"We are currently exploring this policy to see what representation we can make to the relevant authorities as it is very strict and in many cases resulting in us being fined innocently for something that we should really not be fined for," he stressed. The conference was held at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort in St. Maarten.

AIRPORT:--The Management of Windward Islands Airways (WINAIR) would like to advice the traveling public that the company's schedule was severely affected from Sunday afternoon. Unfortunately the schedule was affected as a direct result of heavy volcanic ash emanating from the island of Montserrat.

Management was forced to take a decision as a result of this situation and resorted to recalling its aircraft to St Maarten instead of its usual plan of action of leaving them on Sunday evening in Nevis and Antigua.

This course of action we would like to stress was critically important as management sort to ensure that extra inspections were executed before continuing our operations.

"As the company's Managing Director I would like to reiterate that Winair strongly values the safety and security of its passengers and therefore we always strive to ensure that safety and security remains our number one priority thus this course of action," Managing Director Edwin Hodge said.

The airline therefore would like to advise all passengers that because of the volcanic activity the schedule might be further affected in the coming days. As such, we beg for your usual patience.

As usual we are always very regretful of any inconveniences that passengers would have suffered and like to remind them that we stand committed and dedicated in our efforts of further enhancing the quality and service that we provide to you our customers.

"I thank you all for your cooperation and understanding and would like to urge you to continue using our service as we continue to provide reliable and affordable air service at the highest possible quality and service," Hodge stressed.

 

Philipsburg, On December 10th, 2009, The Philipsburg Toastmasters Club installed four of its 7 new members at the Fusion Restaurant, where the Annual Christmas Dinner was held. Toastmaster Angela Gordon was giving a token of appreciation for introducing most of the new members to the club.
Toastmasters offer a proven way to improve your listening, thinking, speaking and leadership skills. Whether it is about improving your confidence in order to speak to your boss, presenting to clients, giving that dreaded wedding speech or simply to meet like minded people then Toastmasters is the place for you. For less than the price of a weekly exercise class you can regularly participate in a fun and supportive environment that is guarantee to help you become a better and more competent speaker and leader. The increased confidence you gain will help you succeed in whatever path may chose in life. Toastmasters club meetings include short prepared speeches by members, impromptu speaking, evaluation and leadership opportunities.
You will be amazed at your own potential to:
- Deliver great presentations
- Lead teams and conduct meetings
- Give and receive constructive feedback
- Be a better listener
Toastmasters International is the undisputed world leader in public speaking, with over 10,500 clubs and more than 200,000 members in approximately 90 countries. It is the best way to improve your confidence and skills in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Philipsburg Toastmasters Club meets every 1st & 3rd Thursdays at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Meeting Room at 7:45pm. Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 7th January '2010.

Philipsburg:---In connection with the very busy Christmas season and the many shoppers walking in the streets of Philipsburg, the following measures will be taken with regards to the safety of the shoppers and a better flow of motorized traffic:

On Thursday December 24th and Thursday December 31st the section of Front Street between Sea Palace and Emmaplein and Back street between Emmaplein and the Kadaster ( Last Bus stop) will be closed off to all motorized traffic.

These streets will be closed from 07.00 a.m. until closing. All persons who are using public transportation will be able to catch a bus or a taxi on the Cannegieter Street or the Walter Nisbeth road ( Pondfill Road).

In connection with these temporary traffic measures and due to the fact that Philipsburg has limited parking, ONLY that piece of property behind of Ketty's Kitchen which has recently been filled and which is still under construction, will be open temporarily to the general public for parking. ( NOT ANY OTHER PART OF THE RING ROAD UNDER CONSTRUCTION)
This area will be open for parking as of Wednesday December 23rd until Monday January 4th 2010.

My Dear People of St. Maarten,
On behalf of the Government of St. Maarten, I thank you once again, for the great privilege and honor of serving you as your representative. Together, we experienced the ups and downs of public life and have remained steadfast and hopeful in our determination to work together to improve the lives and standard of living of our people. I felt encouraged by your advice and by your constructive criticisms, and I thank you for your support and the prayers offered for me from time to time. There can be no better gift than the gift of prayer.
That is why on Sunday, December 6, 2009, we participated in the Annual Thanksgiving Service and the "switching on" of the lights for this festive season. At that time, I pointed out that it marked an opportunity to begin a process of national enlightenment as we as a people forge ahead in national consciousness and identity and assume our unique place among the autonomous nations of the Caribbean region.
As we all know, Christmas is and has always been the commemoration of the birth of a child, who was born to ordinary people, and who grew up very simply in his own small home town and was trained to be a carpenter. His life began in the humble surroundings of a stable, but he had a profound influence on the course of history, and on the lives of generations of his followers. This means that one does not have to be rich or powerful in order to change things for the better and each of us in our own way can make a contribution to our children, community, and country. This child was fortunate in one very important respect: His parents were loving and considerate. They did their utmost to protect him from harm. They left their own home and became refugees in order to save his life. But, little did they know that the child that they delivered would soon deliver them!
This year, we again came face to face with the harsh realities of crime and violence especially among our youth that we will continue to fight with common resolve. Although our Government has started to unveil a national plan for crime prevention, I do believe that many of our problems can be solved if there is peace in our homes and love in our hearts. We can all help by letting the spirit of Christmas fill our homes with love and care and by heeding the universal injunction to treat others as you would like them to treat you.
Let me join with our protective services to implore parents to be more careful where the danger of fires is concerned. I call on drivers to respect the traffic rules. Loss of life on the roads through drunk or reckless driving is a tragic waste. I beg you to exercise moderation and restraint. Do not indulge in excesses to the point where you become a danger to yourself and others. Avoid confrontational situations and allow good sense to prevail rather than resorting to violence as a means of conflict resolution. Remember the spirit of peace which Christmas has come to symbolize. After the festive season is over we will still need healthy citizens to build our new Country St. Maarten. I urge you to remember the poor and needy or less fortunate among us. Visit the sick whether at home or in the hospitals, and give them a measure of comfort and hope. Do not forget our senior citizens, and let us offer consolation to those who have lost loved ones. I also extend a warm "welcome home" to St. Maarteners visiting for the holidays, and those who have opted to greet the New Year in our homeland. Wherever we find ourselves we must remember, "St. Maarten is our home."
Moving forward, let us rally together around St. Maarten. I want to reassure you that, We Are With The People of St. Maarten, and that our National Team is committed to continue giving you the best representation possible: protecting, defending and promoting your interests. In 2010 we will double our efforts to provide the kind of representation and leadership that you have come to expect from us and deserve as we finalize all steps to become an autonomous Country before the end of next year.
Season Greetings to Everyone. Have a Merry Christmas, and may God Bless the People of St. Maarten.

My fellow St. Maarteners, On behalf of my cabinet, my family and myself, I take this opportunity to extend best wishes to all of you, for a peaceful and prosperous New Year 2010. I pray that the Almighty God gives you wisdom and that you may achieve all your undertakings in 2010. The first decade of the 21st century comes to an end December 31. The New Year is a time for resolutions, for pledging to make changes and develop opportunities as individuals, as families and as communities.
The New Year offers a chance to start over, our spirits invigorated and our minds fresh. The coming of a New Year is a time to take stock of our past, and at the same time we also plan for the future. We make New Year resolutions and follow our dreams. We hope to live life to the fullest and spend as much time with the family. For the New Year 2010, let us as an island nation ensure that respect, tolerance and sharing values prevail throughout our communities. Let the New Year bring peace, health, happiness and prosperity to every household and that extra measure of harmony.
Global Economic Challenges
The global economic crisis started back in 2008. The world entered the most serious economic crisis in 60-years. Economies around the world slowed down. For us, only in 2009 have we felt the impact of this global crisis. Europe, Japan and the United States have experienced a simultaneous recession.
While there have been some recovery signs in the global economy for 2009, the expectations from economic forecasters is that this recovery should continue in 2010.
Having a small, open economy, the fall in world demand has impacted the global tourism and travel industry with our tourism being down over 10 per cent as reflected so far for the early part of the 2009/10 tourism season. A turn-around is anticipated for the 2010/11 tourism season; However every effort must be made to provide the highest service during the current season. The economic crisis is more difficult to overcome because it's global, however it won't last forever, but will take time to recover.
My fellow St. Maarteners, we could not have survived the past year without the resolve, hard work and personal sacrifice of every household. I would like to thank you for seeing through these difficult and challenging times. Even though we are not out of global crisis situation and more challenging times may lie ahead, every business, resident as well as government must do their part to mitigate situations and at the same time increase productivity, efficiency, so that as a nation we will emerge stronger when this global crisis blows over.
As a nation, we have been through times of adversity in the past such as hurricanes and recessions. This global recession has disrupted plans of development in 2009; even though it has offset visions of development for a short period of time, 2010, should be the year when the aforementioned development plans and visions of investors take flight and move to the stage of fruition, and I am confident that investors also see the opportunities of 2010. Every effort must continue to be used to improve standards of living and a better quality of life. Every individual has a responsibility. The global economic recession has thought some to engage in conservation and to avoid wastage and this trend must continue throughout 2010.
Crime & Security
The situation of lawlessness, crime and security that has peaked near the end of 2009 has my absolute attention as Chief of Police. Crime must be attacked head on. Proposals have been made to be forwarded to the Antillean Minister of Justice.
Crime is a critical issue that can have even greater implications for our national economy, far greater than we can ever imagine. As a nation, every individual must work together to create a crime-free St. Maarten, both North and South, as crime does not stop at the border. An end must be brought to the lawlessness and violence in our communities and to the anti-social behavior in our schools. Our police force cannot do it alone, and as a nation, we need to tackle this together.
As a nation we cannot tolerate the breakdown of law and order. We have no excuse for failing and we all must stand up against violence and be determined and prepared to make a difference in 2010.
Constitutional Affairs
This New Year is unlike any other. My fellow St. Maarteners, 2010 represents opportunity. Our island nation is expected to move from one constitutional status to another. This very important step from the constellation of the Netherlands Antilles to country St. Maarten is a very important one that will reflect upon us as a people.
Building of country St. Maarten will be a work in progress. Like so many experiences in life, the past 10-years on the road to country status, has been a journey with its ups and downs, its joys and sorrows. The destination on our journey is country status, come October 10, 2010. Our national journey is a journey to prosperity. The obligations and responsibilities to be taken over is the prosperity that is the reward for hard work. Out of our rich diversity, comes creativity and productivity. Our nation is on a journey, and that journey is the process of realizing the St. Maarten dream of country status. This is a process to which we are irrevocably and unambiguously committed.
Let us together resolve to move forward with ambition and pride. Let us brace ourselves for a challenging year ahead. There is no need to be despondent. By the will and strength of our people, we have the tenacity to overcome the challenges that come our way in 2010. Community and family play an important role in moving a nation forward. When we face difficulties, families give us comfort, hope and practical help. In challenging times, families must draw closer together. The family unit is the bedrock in all communities. For 2010, let us work like St. Maarteners and let us succeed like St. Maarteners.
May God continue to richly bless us all in 2010 and our beloved island; let us work together in a collective manner to build country St. Maarten. May peace and prosperity of our nation continue to prevail. Wishing you all a productive and happy 2010. Thank you.

The Democratic Party wishes to inform its members, supporters and the general public that the public meeting scheduled for this Friday in Cole Bay will be rescheduled. The new schedule of public and contact meetings will take into account the holiday season and the busy time leading up to the Christmas holidays. The entire campaign schedule of the Democratic Party is expected to be released soon and the public is encouraged to stay tuned.

The focus of the Party at this time and going into the parliamentary election remains on the areas of justice and crime fighting, and our new constitutional status. Standing firmly behind the upgrading of the police force of St Maarten, the DP nevertheless, as it has always been is extremely concerned with the immediate prospects for reducing crime on St Maarten. In the view of many on our island, crime is rampant and out of control.

Crime has been and still is a central government responsibility and while different assessments show different conclusions with regard to the real crime situation on St. Maarten, the truth of the matter is that the people of St Maarten are the ones who experience the increase in criminal behavior and criminality.

Attempts to register all persons residing on St. Maarten has been clamored for by the DP for a very long time, however this endeavor should not be at the expense of providing adequate security for the people of our island by the central government.

The DP remains adamant: there is only one way to structurally solve this dilemma and that is by placing the responsibility for fighting crime on St Maarten, with those elected to represent the people of St Maarten. “He who feels it, knows it”.

 

 

Great Bay, Secret Night Club & Lounge will be seeing [RED], as the official [RED] Campaign DJ, DJ Blaize will be hosting a [RED] Party in commemoration of World AIDS Day 2009.

Performing live that evening is international dance hall entertainer Macka Diamond. The purpose of this party is to bring awareness about HIV/AIDS to the party community visiting the club.

DJ Blaize has showed his commitment to the campaign throughout the year as all his radio ads and flyers for all his events were tagged by the Think [RED], Do Safe slogan. DJ Blaize was also on hand over the weekend at the youth HIV/AIDS awareness basketball competition as he provided music throughout the day. The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team supports DJ Blaize by giving him condoms and brochures for his parties.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of housing William Marlin said the island government is planning to submit a dossier for funding to build some more social homes. Marlin said the department of new works is currently working on the plans which is aimed at building at least 30 three bedroom homes for families that needs them most. These homes will be rented at affordable prices.

The housing commissioner said the intention is to construct at least 60 of these homes but they have opted to start with 30 for in the phase. USONA he said is soon to approve the funding since St. Maarten still has 3.4 million guilders available for social housing.

 

 

Great Bay, -HIV/AIDS Programme Manager, Suzette Moses-Burton on World AIDS Day, December 1, 2009 received the Juanita Altenberg Award for Excellence from the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC). This announcement was made on World AIDS Day by Dr. Robert Carr, Executive Director of CVC.

According to a release from CVC Dr. Carr stated that “Moses-Burton stood out in the region as a defender of the human rights of persons living with HIV and AIDS. She has worked regionally to help set up national groups and to build the capacity of members of people living with HIV community.” Additionally she has done extensive work with members of other populations most at risk for HIV, the release further quoted Dr. Carr.

The release also made mention that Moses-Burton on the international scene is well respected as an activist who is unapologetic in making her demands on behalf of the communities she serves, as she has lobbied with many different groups, such Caribbean Parliamentarians, international AIDS programs managers and funders.

Juanita Altenberg, for whom the award is named, is described as a pioneer in the Caribbean region in HIV Advocacy, Care, Treatment and Prevention for communities both hard hit by the HIV epidemic and by social stigma and exclusion. In addition to her serving as the Executive Director of Maxi Linder, one of the region's most respected leaders in services to most vulnerable populations especially sex workers, Altenberg also served as the Founding Co Chair of the Board of the CVC which now names this award in her honor in order to celebrate her work.

Moses Burton stated “This is not just an honour, but a humbling experience to have the work that I do acknowledged by my peers in the fight against HIV in the region. There are others in my opinion far more deserving of this award; however I thank CVC and its members for this recognition.”

 

 

The first winner of Island Water World's online game is Russell Morton, alias Sprout, from Antigua. He became the proud owner of a dinghy-outboard combo, worth US $ 3200.
Until the end of January every online shopper at Island Water World's new e-commerce website will be automatically eligible to win Walker Bay Air floor Hypalon AF240 Dinghy and a Mercury-5HP-outboard Combo.
Island Water World will give two more dinghy-outboard combos away until the end of January. "No matter how small or big the purchase is, every buyer has a chance to win", says Sean Kennelly, Managing Director of Island Water World. And he adds: "The good news is that the draw is cumulative – meaning if you bought something in November or December you will still be eligible for the draw in December and January."
Island Water World also takes care of the freight headache as the company will ship free of charge provided that the winner lives at a destination where Island Water World ships to (see www.islandwaterworld.com for the shipping map).

CAY BAY— On Tuesday the electricity production unit DG#12 at the Cay Bay Power Plant developed mechanical problems resulting in load shedding. Technicians noticed that the inlet air temperature on DG#12 was too high and the decision was taken to shutdown the generator before it could be damaged.
The shutdown resulted in the loss of 6 megawatts thereby forcing GEBE to load shed. The latter was impossible to escape due to the electricity production already at an all time high due to the high demand for electricity.
Most areas on the island experienced power outages lasting approximately two hours. By 5.00pm on Tuesday load shedding for the most was discontinued as the demand for electricity decreased due to the end of the business day, and the smaller generators were able to pick up the electricity load.
GEBE expects load shedding to continue on Wednesday as technicians continue to work on resolving the mechanical challenges on DG#12.
In the meantime, work continues on the two new 11.3 megawatt generators. The supplier has already performed the first tests which were successful and by the end of the week the technicians hope to have the generators running at 50 per cent capacity.
For a load shedding schedule, visit www.nvgebe.com.

Pointe Blanche: -- Workers at the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies along with their union held a stand off yesterday afternoon in an effort to force management to respect their Collective Labour Agreement (CLA), which was signed over a year ago. Workers from security, maritime, and all other section of the harbour were on stand off.
At the gate of the harbour, several employees backed by the United Federation Union stood outside as they wait on members of the management team to begin executing their CLA. While at the protest action, Managing Director Keith Franka sent a letter to the UFA indicating to them that he has requested the assistance of the labour mediator to resolve the issue. Franka said based on the series of meeting conducted on Monday December 7 as well as last Friday they were unable to come to an agreement on the distribution of the percentages to be paid to the COLA over the year 2008. The managing director further explained that they felt they have made a fair proposal to the UFA but somehow they are unable to reach an agreement.
Speaking to SMN News was advisor the United Federation Union Willy Haize said that management of St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies are violating the cost of living clause in the CLA. Haize said the UFA and the Harbour Group of Companies have agreed to adjust the cost of living by 3.9% instead of 4.6% . He said based on the agreement the company has to increase the workers salary by 60% while 25% would be paid in a one-time payment (lump sum). The union advisor said suddenly management wants to pay a higher percentage in the lump sum and less on the salary increase. He said one would believe the union is talking big monies but that is far from the truth, "we are saying 60% of the 3.9% which brings us to 2.3% to be added to the salaries of each worker," something he felt the company can afford to pay. "If the harbour cannot pay this kind of monies to its employees tell us what would happen next year when we have to negotiate the CLA he asked?"
Haize said the CLA clearly states that the workers must receive 60% of the 3.9% in salary adjustment, 25% will be made in a one time payment while the other 15% would go towards the management of the St. Maarten Harbour Holding Companies. Haize said based on the actions of management they don't seem to want to pay the employees anything. Haize said even though they were discussion with management, the managing director said he is calling for the mediator and the union is willing to wait on them outside of the gates at the harbour.
President of the UFA Francis Ollivachi further explained that the workers cannot accept a higher percentage in the one time payment because this would ultimately affect the worker. Ollivachi said workers have to make sure they have a decent salary at the end of the month if they are to receive a proper pension. Furthermore, they need to take home more monies every month to meet the cost of living on St. Maarten. The UFA president further explained that Mark Mingo of the CEO of the supervisory board has ordered management to make the payments but somehow the managing director does not want to comply.
At 4pm the workers were asked to return to work since management of the company has sent the UFA an email asking them to go back around the table on Monday where the discussion would continue.
In a faxed letter to this media house the CEO of the St. Maarten Harbour Holding Mark Mingo said he is very disappointed with the actions taken by the UFA since he had informed them that the meeting they requested on Thursday last week could not take place since the Commissioner in charge of the harbour Theo Heyliger is part of the delegation in the RCCL on the Oasis vessel.

In the meantime, SMN News has learnt from the workers that the Harbour Group of Companies has been investing some $80,000 to train illegal security officers in ISPS courses. According to one of the workers government, owned company spent this amount of monies to train private security guards while the workers (all locals) are denied this type of trainings, which deals directly with cruise ships. The worker said presently there are about 20 security guards who are taking the training course and when it is over, they are sent to work in supermarkets by the security company. The workers said this is a cycle that has been going on for years now and when they bring up the status of these security guards only then those with working permits would replace the illegal immigrant.

PHILIPSBURG--GEBE is once again organizing the GEBE Christmas Lighting Competition in the spirit of spreading the Christmas Cheer on St. Maarten, Saba and Statia with the goal of bringing communities together, enhancing community spirit, spreading Christmas cheer and lighting up Christmas.
GEBE is therefore strongly encouraging the use of LED lighting to reduce the amount of electricity needed. LED technology is much more efficient and allows participants to create amazing lighting displays at a fraction of the cost of traditional lighting. LED lights are 80% more efficient, last for years and come in a large variety of shapes, colors and brightness. Plus LED lights have color changing technology which adds a significant wow factor to the displays. A comparison of a 50-string incandescent Christmas lights to a 50-string LED Christmas lights rendered approximately NAF. 7.50 savings per string. LED lights are available on St. Maarten at many stores.
The format of the GEBE Christmas Lighting Competition will remain the same with some minor changes. The lighting up is scheduled to start two days later. Further, the number of hours that the participants would need to have their lights on for sufficient time to judge has been reduced by 10 hours. Registration is free, so you have nothing to lose and lots to win. A panel of judges will come during the Christmas season to see your display and score it based on creativity, traditional display, first impression, special effects and use of energy saving technology.
Already the competition has received more registrations to date than previous years. Plus this year, there will be a special prize for Best Newcomer to encourage even more residents to participate. The only requirement is that the home did not participate in the 2008 competition. "We want to give newcomers to the competition a head start against the seasoned competitors that have been participating for years."
Once again, GEBE is asking the public to vote for their favorite lighting display for which there is a special prize: The Popular Vote. "We are encouraging the community to get involved and drive around to see the many creative displays of lights that has become our tradition. You can vote for your favorite display and one prize will be determined solely by the popular vote." A special prize will be given to the display that receives the most votes either in the online poll at www.nvgebe.com/christmas or by dropping off their vote at GEBE offices. Voting closes December 31, 2008 at midnight.
Deadline for registration is December 20, 2008. Register by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or pick up a form at GEBE offices. All participants must have their display lit up from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. from December 23, 2008 to December 31, 2008. Judging will be based on creativity, traditional display, first impression, special effects and energy saving technology. Prizes will consist of: first place $1500, second place $1000 and third place $500. Popular vote prize is $500 shopping certificate at a supermarket of your choice.

Dawn Beach:--- Reacting to the motion presented in the second chamber against the Brooks Tower Accord Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said that she is quite disappointed with those in the second chamber since the motion was based on incorrect information. Jacoba said she had expected those in the second chamber would have done their research prior to presenting such a motion.
"One would expect people from a second chamber of such countries would at least get their facts straight." Jacoba said for the second chamber to accept the motion with erroneous information leaves her disappointed since those in Holland would always point fingers to the Justice Ministry of the Netherlands Antilles and say they must comply with the laws fully.
Jacoba gave a presentation on the Brooks Tower Accord managed to give a presentation to the Dutch delegation that was on St. Maarten for the political steering group meetings. Jacoba said she is hopeful that the Dutch now has enough information on the BTA trajectory. She said the Ministry of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles has also agreed to give their Kingdom partners information periodically.

On another note, the Minister of Justice said she is satisfied with the way the process on the BTA is going. She said that she has heard several remarks that she would not be meeting her target for this project. Jacoba made clear that even though she has been making constant appeals to all undocumented persons living in the Netherlands Antilles to register she did not set any target. Jacoba said her sole intention with the BTA project was to give all undocumented residents residing in the Netherlands Antilles an opportunity to regulate their status. The Minister said that all recipients of the BTA permits would have an open door to be part of the regular system to obtain their residency. The Minister said preliminary indications are that close to 4,000 persons living on St. Maarten would receive the BTA permits while that figure on Curacao are expected to surpass St. Maarten. Jacoba called on everyone to look at the BTA process as an opportunity to those residing illegally in the Antilles. She also made another appeal to those residents who have not registered to do so before December 15 since this would be their last chance.
Responding to the discontentment with St. Maarten Leader of Government regarding the requirements, Jacoba said she discussed this matter with Commissioner William Marlin. She said both Curacao and St. Maarten has the same requirements but admitted that those on St. Maarten executing the project are much stricter. The Minister of Justice said that in several cases they were forced to ask the applicants for more proof simply because there are people who are doing their best to defraud the system. She said there are people who would say that they arrived in the Antilles in 2001 and somewhere between those times to now, they had left the island and lived one year somewhere else. When that happen the person cannot be qualified simply because they are only allowed to be outside the Netherlands Antilles for nine months. She said there are times when the information that is provided is not easy to prove and definitely more proof would have to be submitted.

Philipsburg: ---A delegation from Anguilla will be meeting with commissioner of aviation affairs Frans Richardson and the Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards to work out the current issues regarding in transit passengers at the Princess Juliana International Airport. Commissioner Richardson made the announcement at a press briefing on Thursday.

The commissioner said he was also contacted by the authorities in St. Barths since they too are having problems with their in transit passengers. One of the hindrances Richardson said is that the Princess Juliana International Airport does not have an in transit hall and therefore passengers moving on to the other islands have to go through the regular immigration lines.

Richardson said that due to these passengers sometime loose their planes or the flights are delayed. He said that for St. Barths they definitely have to find a solution since the airport on that island closes at sunset. During Friday's meeting, which would involve drs. Randus Eugene Holiday a solution on the in transit, hall has to be found since they are promoting St. Maarten as the gateway to the Caribbean.
The commissioner said while PJIAE has the facilities they would do all that is possible to make in transit passengers comfortable by making sure they get to their destination smoothly.

GREAT BAY:---The 84th birthday anniversary of the late St. Martin patriot Joseph H. Lake, Sr. (1925-1976)—better known as José Lake, might have been remembered quietly by a few family members and friends on October 4, 2009.
However, another legacy of the man known as the father of journalism for the whole island and "dean of the political opposition" in the South from 1959 to 1976, reached another anniversary milestone in 2009, some 33 years after his death.
The year 2009 marked the 50th anniversary of a still active family media tradition started by José Lake, Sr.
This article focuses on a direct family link to Lake's media work. (However, there are also those individuals and print and broadcast media on both parts of St. Martin that could claim to be directly and indirectly inspired by the Lake journalistic tradition.)
On July 1, 1959, José Lake, Sr. founded the Windward Islands Opinion newspaper and the People's Printery. At the foundation of these two interlinked businesses was a philosophy of advocacy journalism and service to the people of the island and not just to the "Dutch side" or "French side"—or reinforcing those colonial divisions.
Furthermore, the founding purpose of the Opinion was stated as "a means of helping to improve the social, economic, educational, and political conditions of the Windward Islands by advocating against the causes of Injustice and Oppression."
Leo Friday of St. Martin and Will Johnson of Saba know a lot about the trials and achievements of Lake, the man the late commissioner and businessman Rupert Maynard repeatedly labeled as a Cassandra prophet. (Cassandra was the Greek prophetess who was cursed to foretell the truth but each time her people would not believe her predictions, causing her much pain and frustration.)
Johnson and Friday are probably two of the more consistent chroniclers of Mr. José Lake's life and time. Both, as Johnson puts it, not only know intimately about Lake's "struggles, conflicts and sorrows, but also of the fun times." http://www.sabatourism.com/scenes_wj34.html
Lake paid a heavy price for challenging the political and economic establishments on both parts of the island. Most businesses refused to advertise in the Opinion, keeping it economically weak. Lake was once literally the lone public voice exposing the bad treatment of workers and what he called the "slave wages" paid to employees.
In the 1960s, Lake's life was threatened; his office was burned to the ground in Philipsburg; and he was officially declared persona non-grata in the North for writing about the poor educational system.
In fact, it was another great St. Martin patriot, the late politician Felix Choisy who got the persona non-grata status revoked.
Lake fearlessly wrote about issues that ranged from political corruption, environmental destruction of Fort Willem hill, to involving the churches in stopping Zwarte Piet as a racist symbol from visiting St. Martin schools during Christmas time.
Many people who are still alive today had to hide in alleys or in their homes to read the Opinion in the early 1960s. All of this is documented in the books National Symbols of St. Martin and For the Love of St. Maarten.
José Lake, Sr. not only published his Opinion as of 1959 but also the Shaka magazine of his son Joseph H. Lake, Jr. in the early 1970s. Both Tony Hawley, the nephew of Lake, printed publications at the People's Printery, Sr. Hawley ran the printing shop in those days. In the early 1970s, Lake, Jr. became an editor of the Opinion.
The first descendent publisher of the José Lake media tradition was Joseph H. Lake, Jr. He founded the Windward Islands Newsday in 1976, at the demise of the Opinion – following his father's death that same year.
Newsday would face much of the same economic boycott as the Opinion for its reporting on government corruption and business exploitation of workers. Lake, Jr.'s publishing company was called Windward Islands Graphics.
In the 1990s Lake, Jr. published the tourism magazine Welkom/Bienvenue and in the early 2000s, following the closing of Newsday, The Republic of St. Martin. Between both Lakes, the island also had its first dailies and color newspapers.
The second business to grow directly out of the foundation laid by the senior Lake is Tony's Printing Shop, founded by Tony Hawley in 1982. Tony was reared by Lake as his son and from the age of nine, became the classic printer's apprentice. He is in fact St. Martin's senior and most experienced printer. Tony's Printing Shop is based in Middle Region, the native village of Jose Lake's family.
The third media that claims descendant from the Lake tradition is House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP). The book publisher was founded in 1982 by Lake, Sr.'s son Lasana Sekou in his New York university dorm room. HNP was established in St. Martin in 1984 and is in its 27th year with over 70 publications by new and senior authors from St. Martin, throughout the Caribbean and the USA.
From 1976, Hawley worked with Lake, Jr. before launching his own printing business, while Sekou was publishing for at least two years in the USA before coming home to work with his older brother as a Newsday editor from 1984 to 1995. As children, all three sold copies of the Opinion newspaper.
Cooperation and exchange of media information formally and informally between Lake, Jr., Hawley and Sekou continue to this day. However, I am told that it is Tony who is teased the most among the media brothers as looking "more and more like the old man."
The three brothers uphold Lake, Sr. as the founding patriarch of the family's media tradition, as the foundation and inspiration of their individual work. For many of us in the media José Lake is a champion who paved the way for freedom of expression and press freedom as a vigorous practice and not just as an ideal in St. Martin.
According to Johnson, José Lake also created a consistent forum to empower the island's people, bringing them out of various forms of inferiority complexes.
Often the few who openly stood up with José Lake, some quietly and some more "bold and brave," did so at serious social, political, and economic risk to their person, their families and livelihood.
As for continuing the media tradition, there are at least three younger Lakes (in their early 20s and early 30s) are showing real interest in the media, namely sports broadcasting/production, web design/publishing, and entertainment publishing.
The three younger Lakes have also worked with or share media ideas with one or more of their senior Lake kin. Time will tell how far into the future the new generation will take this St. Martin family tradition of publishing and printing ... beyond its 50th anniversary.

(Shujah Reiph is the host/producer of the Conscious Lyrics weekly radio magazine and president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF). This article is part of CLF's ongoing observation of critical anniversaries in St. Martin's history and cultural development.)

Philipsburg:--- Police and members of the RST arrested a Guyanese national on Monday at the Princess Juliana International Airport for his alleged involvement in the killing of Jean Claude Busquet. Busquet was killed on December 13 at his business place the Bumper Car Fun Park.

According to reliable sources, the young culprit is part of a group of young men who committed the heinous crime. It is also understood that police and the RST would soon arrest the other suspects.
Prosecutor Jan Barth Davelling said he is not in a position to comment on the investigation. Davelling did not confirm neither did he deny the arrest of the suspect.

Marigot/Paris: ----- The recently amended organic law in the National Assembly on Tuesday confirmed Senator Louis Constant Fleming. Fleming in a press release said he was happy that the law was examined and adopted.
Fleming said according to his expectations, the vote intervened without any amendment of the text already adopted by the Senate on November 16, 2009; completing successfully the joint effort conducted with the members of Parliament and Government.
As a result, the Collectivité of Saint-Martin will now be able to exercise its fiscal competence on all revenues created on its territory: "La competence de Source". Fleming said.
It is a major and most welcome step forward for the Collectivité who will be able to reinforce its financial resources by the year 2011, thanks to the priority measure declared by the Government.
Indeed, the COM will now be able to tax all salaries, rents, dividends, and benefits rewarded in Saint Martin although the beneficiaries are fiscally non-residents of Saint Martin.

The next step is to make sure these taxes are collected for the benefit of local equipments, public services and our population.

In conclusion, beyond the global financial crisis and the economic stagnation, the year ends on a positive note for the Collectivité d'Outre Mer Fleming concluded.

As is the custom in homes all over St. Maarten many are those who this week come together to celebrate this festive season of the year as we mark the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christmas is an ideal time to express love and good wishes for those we care.

It is a time when we allow the marvel of Christmas to fill our hearts with warmth and love – giving, sharing and forgiving.

This is a celebrating season and notwithstanding our troubles, we are called upon to express our gratitude and give thanks to God for his wonderful blessings upon us as as an individual, as a family, as a community and as a developing island-nation.

Christmas is not only a time of celebrating but also the time of reflection in our lives.

It's a time to think about the less fortunate among us and use this occasion to share warm fellowship with all.

May the good Lord be with you and protect you.

Happy Holidays and may God's grace be with you and yours.

 

Fellow citizens, people of St. Maarten....
As we bid farewell to the year 2009, we welcome the year 2010 with high aspirations.
The New Year is when 10-10-10 is to usher in a new period for our island, following many years of preparation, debate and uncertainties.
Most important is what these fundamental changes will mean for the government and people of this island.
As your representative, I want to assure you of my commitment to look for your best interests as we, together, create a better St. Maarten, not just for some, but for all.
In 2010, we have the opportunity, to continue to right some wrongs, when we go to the polls.
Having come this far, we, as a community, must learn from our past and collectively chart a more constructive path for our island.
With the economic setbacks of 2009 now behind us, we have reason to be optimistic.
When we welcomed the beginning of the year 2009, it was comparable to beginning a new chapter in a good book.

As in any good book, there have been many surprises, some fascinating turns of events, here and there sadness, once in awhile laughter and sometimes a little inspiration.

We may not be able to describe this past year as everything we would have wanted it to be.

While we have all been through some challenging times in the past 12 months, we must admit that there have been a few satisfying accomplishments along the way.

I want to express my personal and heartfelt thanks to all of you, members of the public, members of the civil service, well-wishers and persons of goodwill for most of these accomplishments.

Your balanced approach to hardships, your strength and most of all your courage is highly appreciated.
The social ills plaguing our island need a collective approach, if we are to be successful in making those changes that are truly necessary – in keeping with the principles and guidance shared with us by our forefathers.
For the New Year, let's commit ourselves not to be deterred by obstacles placed in our way.

Let's tell ourselves that we can reach new heights, explore new opportunities and embrace change like never before.

It is my hope that we will, once more, as a united people, keep our focus on the truly meaningful tasks that require the involvement of every member of our community.

We need to work together as effectively as possible and for the greater good of the whole of this St. Maarten in the New Year; together we can solve this island's problems!

Your support and participation in the process of change and the many people who already provide input will go a long way towards shaping a healthier future for our future generations.

My family as well as all members of my office staff, join me in extending, to you, and to all of your loved ones, a prosperous, healthy and most blessed 2010.

MAY GOD BLESS ST. MAARTEN AND MAY HIS BLESSINGS BE WITH YOU THROUGHOUT 2010.

World AIDS Day: “Universal Access and Human Rights”

World AIDS Day was first observed on 1st December 1988, 21 years ago. It was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) to promote awareness for all HIV/AIDS related matters.

As an important day around the world and also here on St. Maarten, recognizing this day is an opportunity to remind people that HIV has not gone away, and that there are still many actions to be carried out and preparations on various levels to be made.

It has been over 25-years since AIDS was first discovered. And the existence of HIV/AIDS has had a profound impact on the most intimate of human behaviour. This generation and the previous have witnessed one of the most influential illnesses this world has ever known.

Fore HIV today, remains a threat to men, women and children on all continents around the world. More people are living with HIV than ever before. Data from the AIDS Epidemic Update reveals that there are 33.4 million persons living with HIV, because they are living longer due to the beneficial effects of antiretroviral medication.

The number of AIDS related deaths has declined by over 10 per cent over the past five years as more people have gained access to life saving treatments; a fact which is a great achievement.

New HIV infections have been reduced by 17 percent over the past eight years. This reduction is due to the hard work of programme management teams, health care providers and volunteers around the world, who have left no stone unturned in providing information and access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. One cannot however make mention of any world wide success without acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the management team on St. Maarten.

HIV prevention programmes are, thankfully, making a difference. The eradication of AIDS is not only just another issue or/and ordinary topic. It is a reality that many persons for example, a loved one, a colleague or friend are faced with on a day to day basis. AIDS is an issue that gets to the very heart of the family unit, with which we are very concerned. It threatens the fundamental well being of a nation, it undermines the values that are predominant in our society and it robs us of vital human resources.

As a virus, HIV is likely to be with us for a very long time. How far it spreads and how much damage it does is entirely up to us as a nation. As a community, we have to ask ourselves, will our actions pass the AIDS test? Do we need to submit our blood in order to determine if we are being safe?

AIDS is the great moral cause of the 21st century and beyond, however it should be more than a moral cause. As a nation, we have to support the efforts of our own programme management team and the great work of the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation and its private sector partners.

As a community, let us work ‘Stronger Together’ in the fight against HIV/AIDS on St. Maarten.

 

Hyacinth Richardson

Commissioner of Public Health

 

 

Saint Lucia will be hosting the 2009 Windward Islands Under-15 Cricket Tournament, with matches scheduled to be held at the Dennery and Beauchamp Cricket Grounds, respectively.

However, instead of having the grounds closed to facilitate venue preparation, the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association has gone ahead with the hosting of the SMJ Twenty20 Tournament.

Persons have no problem with the hosting of the SMJ Twenty20 Tournament, except the timing of the hosting.

Those who are in charge must not reserve quality preparation of Test, One-Day Internationals, and regional and international Twenty20 matches, but for all regional tournaments, at all levels.

Next Sunday December 4 2009, the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association will be hosting the Men and Ladies Twenty20 finals, scheduled to be played as been announced at the Dennery Cricket Grounds.

The very next day is the scheduled start of the 2009 Windward Islands Under-15 Cricket Tournament.

What message are sending to our young cricketers when the fields upon which they will be pitting their budding skills against their regional counterparts, have not been closed to facilitate preparation?

How can anyone in the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association who is the tournament’s implementing agency for the Windward Islands Cricket Board of Control tell us that they have done what is needed to adequately prepare the venues.

About one month ago, a team of officials from the Ministry of Youth and Sports led by Sports Director Victor Reid with the Saint Lucia national Under-15 cricket coach Keith Charlery part of the delegation, paid a site visit to the Dennery Cricket Ground.

During that visit, a number of recommendations were accepted aimed at carrying out certain works to prepare the ground surface, pitch, and dressing rooms for the teams.

The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association was not present, and to date, there has been no information in the public’s domain on the upcoming tournament.

Can someone tell us what is going on and we sometimes wonder why the rest of the Caribbean continues to leave us behind in sports?

When one takes into consideration the rapidly dwindling sponsorship monies available, and the need for the administration of the sport in the region to take on a radical turnaround, it hurts to experience what passes for administration in the islands.

A call was placed to the Chief Executive Officer of the Windward Islands Cricket Board of Control Lennox John on the issue of venue preparation, and marketing of the tournament.

Like the recently held Windward Islands Senior Cricket tournament, there has been and continue to be, a tomblike silence emanating out of the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association on status of those tournaments.

Marketing is key, and if the relevant authorities will take on board the offers of public relations and other forms of assistance, and not look at the messenger and deal with the message, we in these parts would be better off in our hosting of tournaments, and preparation of teams.

Another key component is information dissemination, and up to the present day, the media is yet to receive the statistics of the recently held Windward Islands Senior Cricket tournament, despite attempts to get such.

Who were the top-scorers? Who took the most wickets? How many half-centuries were scored? How many centuries were scored? Were there any five-wicket hauls?

Even when the issue of the schedule of matches, which the media was never given, was raised at the press conference at the Green Parrot Hotel, no remedial action was taken.

It took the efforts of one sports journalist to go out of his way to prepare stories along with photographs, did the regional media get the necessary information on the tournament.

Many members of the Windward Islands Cricket Board of Control did receive these reports, and it was expected that certain measures would be put in place to change the way media receives on these tournaments.

That is a critical component in the marketing of tournaments, and it does not take one with degrees and doctorates to do what is needed.

What is need are persons who are sincere, committed, and are radical in their mind-set to think outside the box, in order to strengthen the administrative chain the Caribbean.

The Old Boys Club of cricket administration in the Caribbean continues to hurt the fans, chase away potential sponsors, and leave the media bitter and cynical, for the although massa’ days are long gone, the colour of one’s skin is still a defining factor in these parts to get those in charge of our cricket to listen and do what is absolutely needed…to once again give us hope that our legacy is safe in their hands.

(Robertson S Henry/www.sportcaraibe.net)

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Students, Teachers and staff of the Sundial School opened their newly built library, care-unit and renovated gym hall with a small ceremony on Tuesday. On hand to cut the ribbon of the care unit was Commissioner of Education William Marlin said the construction is just an integral part of innovations in education as part of the implementation plan for the preparatory Secondary Vocational Education (VSBO). Marlin also called on the students to take care of the new that is already in use as if it was their own bedrooms or living rooms.

The project was financed by the Dutch Development funds through USONA and costs some NAF, 500.000, while the SVOBE also made the necessary funding for the complete construction of the SVOBE office. The construction was realized with close cooperation with ROB department of New Works, Kurt Ruan, and Guy Gumbs while the architects were done by Preams with contractors Cypress Construction.

At the ceremony were members of the department of education, project manger of innovations Angela Dekker she called on the students to make full use of their gym, as it is necessary for their growth and development. Joseph Rogers representative of the school board thanked those that participated in the building and financing of the new building.

 

 

Arch Road:--- On Monday night, a break in at the St. Maarten Zoo occurred.

Upon opening the zoo Tuesday morning, the zoo staff noticed feathers on the ground and two macaws were missing.

A blue and gold macaw and a green winged macaw were stolen.

These birds are important birds to the animal collection of the Zoo, and Zoo management expressed their deep concern at such an act.

If anyone on the island notices someone trying to sell macaws, please notify the zoo immediately at 543-2030.

Due to this theft, the Zoo will be installing security cameras and will have extra security available during the night.

 

 

Philipsburg:--- The funding for the language lab that is now installed at the University of Saint Martin has been approved. The signing took place on Wednesday at the Government Administration Building, present to witness the signing was Director of USM were Josianne Fleming Artsen and its Dean Joyce Watson.

The funding signed off by representative of USONA Bart Pasman and Commissioner of Education William Marlin. Marlin said the funding is part of the Social Economic Initiative(SEI ) funds.

Marlin said the project was submitted to USONA in August and it has been approved to the tune of Naf. 300.000.00.

The monies he said will be used to execute the project “USM Regional Language Lab.” The project Marlin said would not only benefit St. Martin but the entire region, which would catapult the USM economic activity. Students would now be able to take courses in English, Dutch, Spanish, French, and Papiamento. One of the main reason USM has launched this program is to cater to the island’s needs as a tourism destination. This program is also geared at broadening portfolios of the economic activities, which would also assist in diversifying the economic activity in other sectors.

 

 

MARIGOT:----High school student Joy Carty won the Collectivity’s English-to-French translation of poetry contest here on Monday, November 30, 2009, said Minerva Dormoy, head of the Cultural Department.

Collectivity president Frantz Gumbs said that the objective of the “second annual educational and cultural event is to promote St. Martin literature in the schools.”

Second and third prize winners were Lisa Sanchez and Elisabeth Marcon. The prize-giving ceremony was held at the Lycee Polyvalente in Marigot.

Magloire Hughes, director of the Collectivity’s Human Development sector, greeted the assembly of students, teachers and government officials in English though the language of instruction and the territory’s official language is French.

Hughes noted that he chose to speak in English, the historical language of the island, reinforcing President Gumbs’s statement last year that students at all levels of the school system in the North of the island should be proficient in French and English.

The 2009 translation contest included a fiction selection from “The Wake,” found in the book of short stories Brotherhood of the Spurs, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi (HNP), the book’s publisher.

In addition to the contest winners, the other participating students were Hyguenec Meredas, Sophia Andrew, Keisha Lake, Carlotta Saint-Hill, Marie-France Genelus, Jean-Philippe Kerilia and Elgeesha Minville.

The participants all received a certificate and a National Symbols of St. Martin book prize. The winners took home more books, travel and money prizes. The judges were Alex Richards (chairman), Anicke Hansen and Jacqueline Hamlet.

Poetry in particular and literature in general had a busy year among the youth and on both parts of St. Martin. “We’re honored to be involved as a publisher and enthusiastic observer,” said Sample. “Future writers and translators are in the making among our young people right before our very own eyes,” said Sample.

Author Lasana M. Sekou points to “a virtual calendar of 2009 poetry-related highlights. Availability of more quality poetry books published in St. Martin; visits by leading poets; the Poetry in the Garden series; the nation’s first poetry CD set to music and poetry videos online; tourist magazines cautiously offering ‘wordsmiths’ as part of the traveler’s original experience; the book fair as a recital, reading and listening platform; the just concluded book week; and Rhoda Arrindell’s hands-on and disciplined involvement of USM and Academy students with the ‘elements’ of what is a national literature.”

“Then there was the unprecedented run of open mic recitals – up to 25 readers at times – with Ras Mosera holding court at Axum Café on Frontstreet. Ruby Bute’s gallery in Friar’s Bay held soiree readings. We saw the public unfolding of Yaya Richards’s oral vignettes into spoken word poetry, with a distinct village orientation,” said Sekou on Wednesday.

“There’s also the growth of individual postings on YouTube, rapping in English, Spanish and Kweyol. What was seemingly new this year is how the teenagers among this group appear to be trying to find their original St. Martin/Caribbean rap voice, as St. Martin’s children – instead of just mimicking imported and divisive varieties,” said Sekou.

“All of these spoken word and text activities can’t be isolated acts and events and could be seen as feeding from a dynamic whole, from the times that we’re in, and at the same time fueling the nation’s cultural independence,” said Sekou, who also spoke at the translation contest program earlier this week.

 

 

 

Philipsburg: --- Several dignitaries from the Dutch and French sides of the island gathered in front of the government administration building to give thanks to God for spearing St. Maarten for yet another year during the hurricane season.
In addressing the gathering Lt. Governor Frankly Richards called on everyone to continue to give thanks as they praise God for watching over the nation. Richards said residents of St. Maarten would gather on annual basis to give thanks simply because the island has God-fearing people. Richards call on the nation to recognize God's protection and they should continue to seek his guidance and wisdom and take them safely through the year into the New Year.

While President Gumbs in his short address publicly thanked the churches and families who have prayed for him and his family. Gumbs said while there maybe one person who maybe be seeking to destroy government due to animosity they must remember that when a government failed it is an island that is failing.

Leader of Government William Marlin who lit the Christmas lights also called on the nation to remember those in need through this Christmas season. Marlin said while they gathered to give thanks for spearing the island this hurricane season, they are also giving God thanks for bringing the slowest season of year to an end.

Philipsburg: ---Imbali Center for Creative Movement will be staging its 15th anniversary celebratory, fundraising concert at the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center on Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12 at 8pm sharp.
This production, which is titled 'In My Feet Is God's Rhythm', focuses on exploring ideas about spirituality from around the world through the medium of dance. Clara Reyes, founder of Imbali and director of this production, said that the all adult cast would be performing energetic and rhythmic pieces celebrating the connection between dance and spirituality. Cast members for this production are Jacky Nichols, Bianka Roberts, Stacy Roberts, Hillianthe Boasman-Simon, Sylveria Jacobs, Candide Bernard, Thierry Gombs, Cassandra Janssan, Peggy Oulerich, Laure Delion, Maryline Jouvenet, Shanay Andrews, Cavin Bridgewater, Karim Toulen, Rudolph Davis and Ademar Violenus. They will be performing to rhythms produced by drummers Julien Seguret, Helier Coqilias, Pierre Curran, Victor Helia. Reyes, Lena Brown and Miguel Alexander will also treat the audience to several songs on the same topic.
Reyes explained that while she had wanted to put together a show highlighting performances from her previous productions over the years, time had not permitted for this and instead she decided to gather together choreographers from around the island to build a show paying tribute to the origins of Imbali.
"Imbali is really about dance and movement, about honoring the body and what it is capable of doing. That is what this show is about. In the past I have done shows that were really multi-disciplinary and of course I will do such again, but this show is really different, because I decided to go back to the beginning, to go back to strictly dance," Reyes said.
As a part of the celebration of dance and especially traditional dance on the island Reyes has invited Evelyn Roberts, whose grandfather danced the ponum at emancipation and Justin "Moose" Romney, whose dance moves are appreciated at a popular island club, to be special guest performers in the line-up.
"To me dance is always about the people, it originated after all from people finding ways of expressing themselves. On the island we have a strong history of dancers and people appreciating good dancers. Because of this I really wanted to incorporate that legacy into this production. Ms. Evelyn and Mr. Moose, who will both be dancing waltzes, will do this beautifully," Reyes said.
Reyes said that in addition to the traditional waltz, audiences will see pieces from ballet, modern contemporary, African and Caribbean dance genres. The cast has been practicing diligently for the past weeks and are ready to blow audiences away.
"This is a really strong cast of performers and I am proud to work with them. They have managed to wrap their minds and souls around the message I am trying to bring with this production; which is that dance in its purest form is all about the spirit, about what moves people," Reyes said.
Tickets for this production are available at Imbali Center for Creative Movement office in the John Larmonie Center on Longwall Road in Philipsburg and at Pete's Photo on Bushroad. Costs are $20 for adults in advance and $25 at the gate and $10 for children in advance and $15 at the gate. More information about the show can be obtained by calling Reyes at 554-9364.
"People who have enjoyed Imbali productions in the past should definitely come out and see this one. It is unlike any we have done before, and of course we want people to come and see 15 years of dance progress which honors the past and still is innovative about the future," Reyes concluded.

Philipsburg: ---- Minister of Home and Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan met with the executive council on Tuesday where they discussed the transfer of dependencies from the central government to St. Maarten. Speaking to reporters shortly after the meeting Duncan said the objective of the meeting was to discuss the transfer process, which is, going far too slow. The Minister said if the dependencies are set up structurally on St. Maarten then it can be used to build country St. Maarten.
However, they took an inventory on the process to see which is functioning from that, which is not functioning. Duncan said he planned to go back to the council of ministers to see if they can make some changes on the functioning of these dependencies. He agreed that this task would not be easy but is prepared to try to convince his colleagues on the situation at hand.
The Minister said St. Maarten is not at happy with the slowness of the transfer process and they would be voicing their opinion at the RTC meetings to be held on Wednesday.
Duncan said the paper work for the transfer of tasks and dependencies are almost finish, which he said definitely looks nice on paper but the funding for these transfers are not in sight for January 2010. He said St. Maarten does not have the monies to hire the people that would be needed to work in these departments or ministries while there is no structure in place for St. Maarten to actually take over.
Duncan said they do have suggestions in mind, which the central government can use to move the dependencies there. Some of the suggestions are the Brooks Tower Building, the Vineyard Building that is rented by the central government and can be used for the future settings at no cost to St. Maarten. He said the physical setting up is not going as fast enough. Asked what is hindering the process Duncan said there are several problems including the slow reaction from Ministers, and now they are saying there is no money. He said that right now there are a number of issues or excuses that are popping up that has to be dealt with immediately. He said even though the process is going slow he would see to it that the law on the transfer of tasks becomes effective as of January 1 2010. When this law is in place then St. Maarten can stretch forth its arms, and say give me these dependencies, and they would have to prepare the places for these transfers. Duncan further explained that they are busy looking into the measures that has to be taken for January 1 2010 when St. Maarten would have the right to ask for what it is hers but there must be preparation. He said he is not saying that the central government has to turn over everything come January 1, 2010 but they need to see that the necessary steps for preparation is taking place at a faster pace. Those that attended the meeting on Tuesday were members of the CAN (Core Group) and the SOAB who normally advises Duncan as well as the director of constitutional affairs.

Domino's Pizza has once again issued a challenge to the community: help less fortunate children enjoy Christmas this year. As usual, Domino's Pizza is offering $4 off a large pizza to every customer who brings in an unwrapped toy. Delivery customers can also take advantage of the offer as well by mentioning it when they place their order and then giving the toy to the delivery driver. Right before Christmas, Santa Clause and a group of Domino's Team members will deliver the presents to the children in areas identified by community members.

Franchisee John Caputo hopes that the entire community will once again rise to the challenge and get involved. "We are rewarding our customers in the very spirit of Christmas to the benefit of needy children. And we are making it easy for anyone to get involved."

This is the 6th year for the successful toy drive which delivered over 400 toys to boys and girls last year, thanks to the support of the community and especially Learning Unlimited School. "What is also great to see, is that many people just drop in toys without even buying a pizza. So many people want to do something in the spirit of Christmas, but most just do not know what to do or how they can help, and this is a great and convenient way that you can make a difference to a child in our community. To see the smiles on the children's faces as they receive their present is priceless and heartwarming." John Caputo continued to say.

Simpson Bay:--- St. Maarten has recorded two killings in two days. The first occurred on Friday when law enforcement found the lifeless body of a Haitian national with severe head injuries at his home. While on Saturday night police were called to the Bumper Car Fun Park in Simpson Bay where they found the owner shot to death. The victim has been identified as Jean Claude Busquet (58) who police said was shot to death just around 11:30 pm.

Busquet's killing has brought the number of murders on the Dutch side of the island to 5 for the year 2009. According to police, spokesman Ricardo Henson Busquet's body was found outside of his office by police and members of the forensic department. Henson said the victim is a French national who, probably bled to death due to the severity of the wounds to his head, chest and right arm. Henson said after interviewing the security guard they learnt that the victim at some point screamed and he went to check on him. It was then the security guard found the victim on the ground bleeding. Henson said so far the cause of death has not been determined and that the investigation is still ongoing. The Police Spokesman said based on the evidence collected at the crime scene it is already determined that the killing is consistent with that of an armed robbery. The police have also confiscated the body for further investigation

In an unrelated case, police found the body of a man late Friday afternoon in his home on Margareth Dive Middle Region. The victim has been identified ads Saliba Absalon (42) from Haiti. Henson said the man was found lying on his floor and that he had bled profusely from wounds to the back of his head.
Based on the evidence collected at the scene police has not ruled out crime. Henson said it seems most likely that a crime was committed but it is too early for them to say what type and who may have committed the horrendous act. The body of this victim has been confiscated as the investigations continue.

Great Bay:--- - Myra Sprott, Administrative Assistant with the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team was awarded "Employee of the Year" during Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour's Christmas Dinner at the Fleming's Estate in Cole Bay on Monday December 14.
In addition to her plaque, Sprott was also given a travel voucher to either Curacao or Aruba on DAE, and a beautiful painting of a Flamboyant Tree by Ruby Bute.
Sprott was voted employee of the year by her fellow colleagues at Public Health for her willingness to always assist.
"I was in total shock, when I was called for the award, I am always willing to give my fellow colleagues within the sector a helping hand no matter which department," said Sprott.
Sprott would like to thank her fellow colleagues for recognizing her dedication to the job, and encouraged all civil servants to continue striving to be the best.

Philipsburg: ---- Dutch teenager Laura Dekker was sent back to the Netherlands on Monday after she was found by authorities here on Sunday. According to police spokesman, Ricardo Henson the teenager arrived on St. Maarten on Thursday from a Paris flight.
Henson said Dekker stayed somewhere in the vicinity of the Simpson Bay yacht club from Thursday to Sunday when she was found. Authorities on St. Maarten he said was asked to placed the teenager at a local hotel under the watchful eyes of the Marchausse. Henson said all arrangements were made from Curacao for the teenager to travel back to the Netherlands on Monday. She was escorted to the Princess Juliana International Airport by assistant chief commissioner of police Daphne Francesca who made sure she boarded Insel Air to Curacao then to the Netherlands. Dekker had with her a guitar and several bags including a small suitcase.

According news reports online Dekker ran away from home after she failed to convince a Dutch court that she is old enough to sail around the world. She was located two days after she was reported missing.
Henson said the teenager cooperated well with police and those that were close contact with her after she was located.
While police here have not confirmed if Dekker was in contact with anyone who would have assisted her to take her dream voyage it was clear it was still on her mind as she was located at a marina.

Philipsburg: --- Several civil servants working for the island government of St. Maarten are angry at a newspaper article that appeared in the Daily Herald on Tuesday accusing them of not amending the room tax ordinance.
The civil servants who spoke to SMN News on the condition of anonymity said that they are not scapegoats and politicians should not use them for their own political mileage or to their benefit. The civil servants contested the contents of the article by providing SMN News with the decision taken by the Democratic Party executive council on January 22 2009 to deny Westin and Sonesta Maho of the room tax waiver they promised them some four years ago. They also provided SMN News with copies of the letters sent to the resort on June 30th 2009 saying that Marlin should dance to the music and not blame them since they did not run for office. "On several occasions the elected would ask civil servants to do the impossible even though they know we can go to prison for not following the law."

According to the civil servants, the former finance and tourism commissioner Roy Marlin should let the people know that he promised Westin to amend the room tax ordinance in exchange for the renting of his house. "While the former commissioner was collecting his house rent Westin was waiting in limbo".
They said Marlin knew that he was not in a position to amend the ordinance since what he wanted was against the law. The civil servants said legal affairs provided the Democratic Party executive council with an advice on this matter since 2005.

They said Marlin had issued the letter of comfort to Westin Dawn Beach in 2005 while he did the same to Maho Sonesta in 2003 and only on January 22 2009 the executive council basically took a decision to deny both these resorts their request.
In the article, Marlin said while his executive council had the amendments of the ordinance as high priority that was not the case with the departments. While Marlin said legal affairs and Resources, management had to work on the ordinance to enable the amendments, which delayed the process. The civil servants said the executive council had gotten the advice in the early months of 2005 since he Marlin had promised Westin to make the amendments by mid 2005.

Leader of government William Marlin had made this disclosure last week telling members of the media that they were busy cleaning up another mess made by the former executive council. Marlin said his government would not be taking any blame for the Westin affair, but he was busy negotiating with the island receivers and Westin management to find an amicable solution.
Below is the decision taken by the executive council on January 22 2009 as well as the letters sent to both resorts.



Last Tuesday SMN News reported that the island receivers for unpaid room tax from 2004 to 2009 placed a lien on Westin Resort. This sparked some heavy discussions last week including court hearings after the Island Receivers office had decided to auction the movable properties at the Resort. An agreement was reached late Thursday night between parties to hold off on the auction until another court hearing. It is understood that Westin has decided to place the monies owed to the island government in an escrow account until the hearing.
Westin was supposed to invest in the training of locals and other infrastructure that would have boosted the tourism industry. The former executive council had promised to grant the waiver for at least five years whenever they changed the legislation.

GREAT BAY (GIS) — The Department of Social Cultural Development, as is customary prepared baskets which will be distributed to the needy persons in our community. During this year's Thanksgiving Service on December 6th, 2009 the public demonstrated once more their concern for the needy and gave a love offering which was used for the purchasing of the goods for the baskets. These baskets will be distributed by the churches, the department of social affairs and other community organizations in the spirit of giving and sharing with those less fortunate in our society. Heartfelt thanks is expressed to all who in one way or the other made a contribution and made this project possible once more.

Philipsburg:-- Police on Tuesday December 29th at approximately 11.00 a.m. a unanimous report came in to the Central Police Dispatch informing them, that at least three persons were busy breaking into a house on Killebarn drive in Cul-de-Sac. Immediately after receiving this information several police patrols and detectives were sent to the scene to investigate the matter, however on the arrival of the investigating officers the suspects had already left the scene in a small black vehicle with license plate P-8292.
A search of the area did not have any positive results. However, at around 03.15 p.m. a unit of the 0-tolerance Team, while in the area of Madame Estate spotted the suspect vehicle in the parking lot of Fresh Market. No-one was in the vehicle at the time. The unit stood on guard for a short time and saw when two unknown men stepped into the suspected vehicle and attempted to drive away. The two suspects were arrested on the spot and during a quick search of the car, a generator was found on the backseat of the car. The suspects are R. E. from Sint Maarten and G.P.C. from the Dominican Republic.
Neither of the suspects could give an acceptable explanation to where the generator came from or who the owner was. The generator was confiscated for further investigation. Both suspects were transported to Philipsburg Police Station and handed over to the Detective Dept. who will continue the investigation into this matter.

French Quarter: --- It is the end of another year and as usual, media houses on St. Martin are tasked with selecting someone that stood out during the past year. Such a task is always great and also burdensome. This year as we peruse the profiles of all our public figures the only person that stood out among them is former Lt. Governor Dennis Richardson.
Richardson as we all know is on St. Maarten's team negotiating the terms of country status for St. Maarten. While this is indeed a long and tedious journey we realize that to remain part of this team and to get what the people of St. Maarten voted for would take a great deal of determination. Determination to make the dreams of the people a reality, determination to stay focused and to achieve all that is needed for St. Maarten to survive under its new umbrella and most of all determination to achieve what rightfully belongs to St. Maarten and its people.

Richardson got involved with the constitutional process since the referendum in the year 2000 when he was Lt. Governor of the island territory of St. Maarten. After his term ended in 2000 as Lt. Governor, Richardson then established a consultancy firm. At that time, he was also part of the work group for constitutional affairs of St. Maarten.

When we selected Richardson we decided the only way to get a background on the process, itself was to interview Mr. Richardson. An interview he willingly gave us.
Asked when he took up the challenges of the constitutional process Richardson said he was on the work group for constitutional affairs on a part time basis after his term as Lt. Governor of St. Maarten. As Lt. Governor, he chaired the committee that established the outcome of the referendum.
As a matter of fact in 2004, he became the project director and advisor for the constitutional reform, because of this step he became a full time member of the St. Maarten team. As such, he was part of St. Maarten's negotiating team, headed by Mr. Eugene Holiday, Mrs. Joane Dovale Meit and Mr. Hiro Shigimoto, in the project group for finance. Richardson said through tough negotiations they came up with an acceptable agreement on measures relating to financial supervision and the good management of government monies in view of the Dutch offer to pay off the debts of the Netherlands Antilles and those of the island territories. Richardson was also part of the negotiations on the justice chain as well as other laws that would have to be applied when St. Maarten achieves its new status. These negotiations were carried out in the project group on the maintenance of law and order and on constitutional affairs. He is co-chairman of that project group.
Those laws include the consensus law on the police, the public prosecutor's system, the joint court of Justice, as well as the council for the maintenance of law and order that will function as an independent inspectorate of the justice chain. Richardson also participated in the negotiations on the Kingdom Charter to make the necessary adjustments to accommodate the new countries St. Maarten and Curacao as well as the BES islands.
He said that throughout all negotiations, there was always a political shadow hanging over them since the Dutch government and parliament had some stringent demands when it comes to financial supervision as well as criminal investigations on these islands. Richardson said one of the things that the Dutch wanted was more of their influence in these processes.
Asked how difficult is this task? He said that everyone would remember the negotiations that took place prior to the final declaration in The Hague. "Things could have gone anywhere during this negotiation. St. Maarten delegation could have returned home with nothing. The talks could have broken down completely."
He also spoke of the recent negotiations that were held in Curacao in June 2009 concerning the assessment on whether the island is ready to assume more responsibilities for the new status. Richardson said the way the negotiations were going it looked as if the Dutch were setting St. Maarten up to fail since we have to build the country from scratch without the necessary financial means and without the necessary authority when it comes to central government responsibilities. One of the challenges would have been to secure qualified manpower and infrastructure to execute the work that lies ahead prior to the new status, without the means to do so. However, the St. Maarten team was alert and realized that they were being set up to fail which he said was unacceptable to St. Maarten. Richardson said it was then that the leader of government William Marlin made a clear statement and informed the Dutch that St. Maarten cannot agree with the proposed assessment and draft Kingdom measure to guarantee the execution of tasks, while St. Maarten is being denied the means and the opportunity to timely build up its new government organization, Richardson said they made clear that St. Maarten knows what is needed including the amount of qualified personnel and the only thing that is lacking is the money, the manpower and the authority to do so. He said an appeal was made to both the Dutch and Central government that if they wanted to see an organizational structure actually in place and ready prior to the new status, then they needed to give St. Maarten the necessary support by providing the subsidiaries and the necessary manpower prior to the new status. Richardson said that again they were faced with a situation where they had to take a decision to either get the Dutch to understand the island's predicament or step out of the negotiations and come back home to explain the people that had they stayed and agreed with the proposals St. Maarten would have gotten its country status, but it would have been under higher supervision through no fault of its own. Richardson said it was then he came up with the idea to have a cooperation agreement on the specific institutions the Dutch want in place. The idea he said is, while St. Maarten is going to work towards building these specific institutions, a monitoring committee in which the Dutch are to participate, would supervise the process based on a plan of approach in those specific areas for a period of two years. If St. Maarten failed the Kingdom government would have the authority to provide a solution. After an initial discussion on which institutions were to be named it was agreed that the further defining of the organizations would take place in the following meeting of the Political Steering Group, scheduled for December 2009, based on proposals of a petit comite
He said after that proposal was accepted an agreement was reached and the date 10/10/10 established for the new status. That proposal he believes saved the day for St. Maarten at that time, as well as for the establishing of a date.

Denis Richardson also stood out on December 9 when the PSG meeting continued past 02:35 a.m. in which he was of the opinion that the Dutch themselves reneged on the verbal agreements and spirit of those agreements made in the meeting of June 2009 and tried to comeback on the defining of the institutions that would fall under the general Kingdom measure, thereby again opening the door for higher supervision on the country St. Maarten across a broad front of the country's responsibilities. A clear example of "backwards negotiations" (terug onderhandelen) of which they have more than once accused their Caribbean negotiating partners with disgust! Again leader of government William Marlin backed the position taken by the whole negotiating team of St. Maarten and in this way once more demonstrated that the St. Maarten's delegation has (always had) political backing, is coordinated and shares a joint vision on achieving country status for St. Maarten.
If this last bid fails there are a number of options open to St. Maarten, amongst others: arbitration by the United Nations and/or a new referendum with other options for its constitutional status.

He readily agreed that this constitutional process has consumed all of his time and that he has not been able to adequately develop his consultancy firm. Asked about that he said his main concern right now is to make sure St. Maarten is treated fairly and gets whatever she deserves, he felt being the project director is a mission, and not just another job, given to him, especially since he is convinced that St. Maarten has a bright future ahead. Richardson said the island would have some difficulties in the beginning but the island would benefit significantly in the end.

Asked if he felt if the transfer process would take place on October 10 2010? Richardson said he has his doubts on this because the consensus Kingdom laws still have to be passed in parliament and the State Secretary still has some convincing to do since those in Parliament still have concerns of their own. Furthermore, Bonaire has initiated a new referendum the results of which can cause the unnecessary complications. And last but not least the outstanding issue with St. Maarten has to be satisfactorily resolved.

On behalf of the team at SMN News, we would like to extend a hearty thank you to Mr. Richardson for being on the forefront for St. Maarten. Thank you for trying to make this new status a reality and mostly for looking out for the best interest of our island. With that, CONGRATULATIONS as you are indeed our MAN of the year 2009.

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:
- 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)
- 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)
- Dr. Zamora Perez Medical Clinic (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 2.30pm to 4.00pm)

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

 

Cupecoy: --- The Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation was notified by some concerned Cupecoy residents of illegal building activities on the Cupecoy beach.
A representative of the foundation visited the beach over the weekend and noticed that a developer has built a high concrete wall on the sandy beach covering the natural rock formations that makes the Cupecoy ocean side so special, says president of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation Jadira Veen.
Cupecoy Beach is showcased in many of our tourism brochures, marketing and online tourism websites as having a unique rock formation coastline, sand stone cliffs, and two natural caves. While the Cupecoy cliffs and rocky coastline formation are not protected on the Monument list, The Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation recognizes that they are a very unique feature to the islands landscape and should be protected and appreciated for its natural beauty.
PRIDE is calling on all beach side developers in the Cupecoy area to stop destroying the natural beauty of our landscape for their own personal gain.
In the meantime, the relevant authorities such as the Inspection department, the Prosecutor, the Sector head of Nature and Environment has been appeased of the illegally built wall on the Cupecoy beach.
Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation along with the concerned residents who do appreciate the natural unique beach landmark features will be paying close attention to the follow up on this situation.
Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation has requested that the illegally built wall be demolished at the expense of the developer.

GREAT BAY – With the holiday season underway, preparations is well underway for holiday parties. In order for you and your family to have an enjoyable and safe holiday season, certain precautionary measures should be taken.

When preparing for holiday parties, decorate only with flame-retardant or noncombustible materials. Avoid using candles during parties. If guests will be smoking, provide them with large, deep ashtrays and check them frequently. After the party, check inside and under upholstery and in trash cans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.

Clean up immediately after a holiday party. A toddler could rise early and choke on leftover food or come in contact with alcohol or tobacco. Remember the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.

When attending a party, always designate a non-drinking driver. If you are the host of a holiday gathering, be sure there are non-alcoholic beverages available for guests who are driving.

During the holiday season pets are also susceptible to injury believe it or not. With respect to pet safety this holiday season, anchor your Christmas trees securely. Climbing cats and dogs with wagging tails can knock over your tree for those who have their pets indoors.

Hang breakable, glass ornaments well out of reach. The small glass and metal fastenings can be stepped on or even swallowed by your pet. Keep tinsel and ribbons out of reach of pets, especially cats that are intrigued by them.

Clean up pine needles frequently. They can be toxic when eaten by your pet. Keep lights and extension cords safely secured or covered to deter chewing, which can lead to electric shock or even electrocution.

This safe holiday season message is from the Preventative Health Department and forms part of the department's calendar of observances to create awareness where it concerns holiday safety.

Have a safe holiday season.

SIMPSON BAY - Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation Managing Director Russell Voges, announced on Monday that there will be six bridge openings as of Tuesday, December 1.

As is customary every season, in order to accommodate the Mega Yacht marine tourism sector, the bridge opens six times during the day in order to handle the vessels that make use of several marinas in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The daily seasonal openings will be: 9.00am outbound, 9.30am inbound, 11.00am outbound, 11.30am inbound, 4.30pm outbound and 5.30pm inbound.

This schedule will run from December to May 2010.

Users of small craft are requested not to transit the bridge channel during bridge opening hours. Boats docking at the BBW dock should not be maneuvering in the channel during the bridge operational hours.

Small sea craft must make use of the port channel when passing under the bridge. Jet ski owners and rentals are requested to inform users that they must put their waterspouts off when passing under the bridge. This prevents corrosion of the iron structure of the bridge.

Captains and owners of vessels after docking their vessels in the lagoon should immediately come to the window of the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority & Immigration to clear in their vessel, crew and passengers and pay the necessary bridge and harbor fees and dues.

 

 

 

 

 

GREAT BAY,– Commissioner of Education, and Leader of Government William Marlin appreciated the 26 exceptional educators that were selected by their schools for the “exceptional qualities” displayed over the years towards their students and parents and our educational system in general. These educators do not hesitate to go the extra mile.

The teachers were given a tour of the cruise ship, Freedom of the Seas, and were treated to an exclusive lunch in one of their finest restaurants.

Marlin added that teachers are at the centre of shaping the minds and characters of our islands young people. This tour and luncheon was just a small way in which we decided to show our appreciation to this group of teachers.

I would like to say a special thank you to our teachers for preparing our children for the roles that they will play in the future advancement of our society as well as in Country St. Maarten.

We would also like to thank the Tourist Office for their assistance in organizing the tour aboard the Freedom of the Seas. Special thank you also goes to Mr. Keith Franca of the St. Maarten Port Authority, Commissioner of Education William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS).

 

 

Philipsburg:--- Leader of Government as well as the National Alliance William Marlin lashed out at members of the Democratic Party at Wednesday press briefing. Marlin was reacting to certain media reports, that accused the current government of several things.

Marlin said he had no intention to react this rhetoric but after seeing, a headline that says the DP slams government, the needed to make some clarification.

Marlin said the Democratic Party was in government since 2000 when the people voted to become country. He said this party was in government uninterrupted for 9 years and they should take time to sum up what they have done during that period in preparing St. Maarten to take up its county status. Marlin said that right now there are questions regarding the law on the ombudsman.

Marlin said that some five years ago a draft was presented to the Democratic Party government who did nothing with it. However, today the draft law has been completed and sent to the governor general for consultation. He said after that it would be sent to the island council for ratification. The island leader admitted that there is a lot of work that still has to be done prior to 10/10/10.

Marlin said that only last week they had the kick off for the social economic council something that the DP could have done while they were in office. The DP could have taken the lead and had these institutions in place. He said now that the DP is out of government by their own design they are making it sound as if someone stole something from them and they are coming to get it back Marlin said government was entrusted to the Democratic Party in the 2007 election. Marlin made clear that it is the DP party that fell apart and no one went behind their back and stole the government from them. “No one waited until they fell asleep and move their stuff out of this government building it’s the Democratic Party that fell apart.” Marlin said at least three members of the DP have broken away from them. “Two of those members made their statement public while the other one is yet to make a announcement on their position.” Marlin said it is a smoke screen of attacking the government by saying they are not getting things done. Marlin said this is an attempt to cover up their own internal destruction and falling apart.

 

 

GREAT BAY (GIS)— On Friday the Main Voting Bureau went through the process of selecting the numbering of the political parties and the coloring of those parties.

The results are as follows:

1) NA will be second on the list.
2) DP will be first on the list.
3) PPA will be third on the list.

The results of the colors are as follows:

1) DP will have RED.
2) NA will have WHITE
3) PPA will have ORANGE

Below are the full lists of the parties and candidates.

Lijst nr. 1

Nr. Naam en voorletters of voornamen
der kandidaten Aantal
stemmen
1 Wescot geb. Williams Sarah A.
2 Labega Erno L.
3 Marlin Roy R.
4 Geerlings Perry F.M.
5 de Weever Petrus L.
6 Carty Steven P.
7 Johnson Stuart A.
8 Rogers Carlyle V.
9 Gumbs Marinka J.
10 Richardson Charles J.
11 Emmanuel Richelda G.

Lijst nr. 2
Nr. Naam en voorletters of voornamen
der kandidaten Aantal
stemmen
1 Marlin William V.
2 Richardson Frans G.
3 Pantophlet George C.
4 Samuel Rodolphe E.
5 Doran geb.York Henrietta
6 Illidge Patrick G.
7 Duncan Roland E.
8 Jacobs Silveria E.
9 Engel Louis R.
10 Peterson Terry J.
11 Richardson Hyacinth L.

Lijst nr. 3
Nr. Naam en voorletters of voornamen
der kandidaten Aantal
stemmen
1 Arrindell Gracita R.
2 Douglass Ruth A.G.
3 Brown Les A.
4 Patrick Franklin S.
5 Velasquez Susanna A.
6 da Silva Carvalho geb.Richardson Jennifer C.
7 Liu Anique
8 Provacia Kenneth D.
9 Henrietta Othmar D.
10 Bommel Shaira R.
11 Martina Herbert M.J.

Cay Hill:----On Tuesday morning December 8th at 10:30 a two-week training and system check was officially opened at the Fire Department in Cay Hill. From December 8th to December 18th 2009 a delegation of Dutch Caribbean fire departments will be attending this training on Sint Maarten. The purpose of these two weeks is to establish a joint exam system for all 6 Dutch Caribbean fire departments. The training is organized under the auspices of the Dutch Ministry of BZK and the Dutch Fire Fighting Examination Institute (Nbbe).

In 2006 the Nbbe certified the Sint Maarten Fire Department to be able to use the Kingdom exam system for fire fighters. After this certification Sint Maarten implemented the Kingdom exams of the Nbbe for all its personnel. Since then all exams and diploma's of the firemen are officially recognized within the entire Dutch Kingdom. Back in 2006 this system was chosen to guarantee the level and quality of the exams for the firemen and since then the experience with this system has been more than satisfactory.

The success of the system on Sint Maarten has caught the attention of the Dutch Ministry of BZK. It is the intention of the Ministry to have a similar system established on the BES islands and offers the (future) Dutch Caribbean countries to participate. Since the original exam system is based on a Dutch model some adjustments will have to be made to make it workable for all the islands. Decisions about these adjustments will be made jointly will all parties involved.

To get a clear picture of the current state of affairs on the different islands a system check needs to be carried out. Sint Maarten has been chosen to host this system check, due to its pioneer role. The training and test is organized by the Nbbe and financed by the Ministry of BZK. Fire fighters from Sint Maarten, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, St. Eustatius and Saba are taking part in trainings and tests on several locations on the island during these two weeks.

The training and test period is being held from the 8th until the 18th of December. Both the theoretical and the practical part will be executed as realistic as possible at different locations on the island. Included in the training is a three-day seminar for high-ranking members of the various fire departments to start working on a joint exam board for the Dutch Caribbean.

Prior to the start of the two-week training on Sint Maarten a presentation was given last Monday on Sint Eustatius in the presence of the Dutch Minister of BZK, Mrs. Guusje ter Horst.

The Sint Maarten Fire Department is very pleased to be the host for these two weeks of training and tests. Especially since the Sint Maarten has been an advocate for years to get a joint Caribbean examination system in place for all the fire departments of the Dutch Caribbean islands.

Philipsburg: --- Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs Roland Duncan said the Dutch politicians are paranoid when it comes to St. Maarten and Curacao. The Minister was reacting to the motion presented in the second chamber regarding the Brooks Tower Accord. Duncan said he is disappointed in the Dutch but with this recent action it shows the Dutch are not as smart as they think they are.
The Minister said this is St. Maarten's autonomy and it is the right of the island to deal with the illegal immigrants they way they chose. He said Holland has its own immigration problems and St. Maarten and Curacao does not tell them how to deal with it. He made clear that the Brooks Tower falls under the Netherlands Antilles and the motion that was presented in the second chamber cannot affect the process.
The Minister said one of the concerns of the Dutch is that a great deal of people would suddenly become Dutch with the Brooks Tower Accord. He said this is a clear case of paranoia because there are stringent laws in place that has to be respected before someone can become Dutch citizen.
The Minister also made clear that those that qualify and passes the exams to become a Dutch citizen also has the right to there status based on the laws written by the second chamber. Duncan said he wants to know if the second chamber is now trying to over write its own laws.

Duncan said Holland believes it is very attractive to people. He said the French side of the island has far more and far better social benefits as well as a higher minimum wage in place and it has not attracted millions of Caribbean people.
He said even the statistics presented in the motion was incorrect and it is clear that the Dutch did not do any research on the Brooks Tower Accord which is only granting applicants a one year permit. Duncan said the figures were exaggerated something he already told to the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba. In this motion they said St. Maarten has 50,000 illegal immigrants and Curacao has 40,000, while he does not have the figure the Minister said there might be a third of that figure on island. The Minister said so far there might be about 5,000 people who registered for the BTA permit. He said where the other 45,000 hiding is because the economy does not reflect any of this.
Asked if he is satisfied with the BTA process that is currently being implemented Duncan said he could not make an assessment just yet. However, he admitted that he would have had a different approach had he been dealing with it. Duncan said the requirements they are asking is too much. He said if someone has been surviving on St. Maarten for the past 10, 12, or 20 years without having a fix job or no job at all is not enough to deny them legal residency. The Minister said what if these persons are living with a live-in companion and has children to care for and they are cared for by their companion? He asked what and how they are dealing with situations where people have multiple jobs and are surviving on the islands. Furthermore, he said if the applicants are living here for more than ten years and has not gotten into to trouble with the law then he would have not made the process that difficult for them to legalize their status. He made clear immigration is not a justice matter and the Netherlands Antilles has been trying to make it one for years now. He said there are people who clean houses for two days a week for four different families per week, which means they have four employers, but the law he said does not cater to that kind of scenario.

In light of the recent fuel spill in Simpson Bay Lagoon, Environmental Protection In the Caribbean (EPIC) would like to again note that a fuel and oil spill response unit is available to the public at Lagoon Marina and Boats Service gas station in Sandy Ground next to the Suzuki Repair shop. Both these companies have agreed to allow public access to these units. These units contain booms and absorbent material sufficient for holding 65 gallons of oil or fuel while repelling water.

In the event of a spill, in addition to contacting Public Works Waste Disposal Department and local foundations, the Coast Guard should be notified as well.

In the case of a fuel spill, the worst solution is to add detergent. The detergent not only forces the fuel to the bottom of the water, where it cannot evaporate, but it also adds another pollutant to the water. The detergent coats the gills of fish and suffocates marine life while also taking a long time to biodegrade. If allowed to remain at the surface, the volatile components in the fuel will be able to evaporate in the sun over time. Clearly in this case, the victims of this spill were desperate for an immediate solution to the crisis. However, until Sol begins to take responsibility for these events, EPIC encourages all spill observers to make use of the oil and fuel spill response kits in the lagoon.

Philipsburg: On November 28th 123, students from the Caribbean Institute for Social Education Foundation(CIFSEF) graduated. The students graduated after they successfully completed various CIFSEF & CARIBCERT hospitality courses. 33 as professional Front Desk Agents, 16 as professional Bartenders/Waiters/Waitresses, 10 as Food & Beverage Supervisors, 10 as Reservations Agents, 22 as professional Customer Agents, 28 with Core-Supervisory/Management Diplomas and 5 with Computer certificates. The employees came from 33 different companies.
There were also 9 youths from the USONA-DURPI-Youth Development program. These youths were given a second chance at education. The 9 successfully completed the CIFSEF & CARIBCERT courses for Front Desk Agents. They are now proud holders of Front Desk Agents Diplomas. They also received CIFSEF Jump Start to a Job Computer Training certificate.
The CIFSEF training programs are supported by the WIFOL, SHTA and the SMTA.
CIFSEF is now registering new students for their 2010 training program. CIFSEF is located in the WIFOL building on the Pond Fill, Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- Senator George Pantophlet feels that St. Maarten would soon have to decide how it would deal with the undocumented when she attains her new status. The senator and island councilman said on a daily basis persons have been visiting his office seeking information as to how they can regulate their status but in many instances the laws on admission and expulsion does not allow many persons to regulate their statuses.
Pantophlet in a press release gave an account of three women with ten children bearing Dutch nationalities but none of these women are legal and are not able to regulate their statuses. Even worst, all three of them he said are working and their employers are not doing what is necessary to make sure their employees are regulated and resides legally on the island.
In the first scenario the island councilman said the first woman came to the island 15 years ago to join her mother who has been living on St. Maarten for the past 28 years and is a holder of the Dutch passport. Pantophlet said this person worked for several businesses but none of them found it necessary to obtain a working and or residency permit. He said at age 24 this person got married to someone that was born in the Netherlands Antilles and they have four children. The councilman said for some reason the father and husband of this woman never requested a residency permit for his wife and neither is he willing to regulate his children status at the civil registrar. These children Pantophlet said is yet to receive their Dutch passport, while the woman is doing her best to regulate her status under the Brooks Tower Accord.
In case two the senator said the woman has been residing on St. Maarten for the past ten years and has been married for over seven years. This family he said now have three children and her husband did request her residency permit which was granted on a number of occasions. Pantophlet said when the woman husband made the last request of extension he left the island and not returned. He said due to that the woman could not pick up her permit when it was approved simply because her husband was not on island. This person too is trying to register under the BTA.
As for case three he said the woman came to the island at an early age and she even completed her secondary education on St. Maarten. This person he said was also married and has three children and had residency under her husband. However, this couple is now divorced and the woman is now undocumented. The senator said that while the time for registering for the BTA expires on December 15 it does not address all scenarios. The senator further explained that under the current situation of these women can apply for permanent residency even though they are mothers and care givers for Dutch children.
Pantophlet said on several occasions he wrote letters and even made suggestions as to how St. Maarten can handle the issue of the undocumented but all of his suggestions and letters went neglected which resulted in the problems St. Maarten faces today with the undocumented. The senator said by 10/10/2010 St. Maarten would achieve its country status and the time to begin dealing with this matter is now.

GREAT BAY,– St. Maarten's Local Chief of Police, Governor Franklyn Richards, in response to recent crime incidents on St. Maarten, is once more sounding the alarm and wants the Central Government to take note of the situation.
The Local Chief of Police is of the opinion that while commitments have been made for a structural approach to addressing law and order on our island, police re-enforcements are needed right now.
The Local Chief of Police is extremely worried about the recent spate of robberies and two incidents resulting in loss of life last week, in St. Maarten.
"These senseless killings deserve our collective condemnation and cannot be allowed to continue without an appropriate response by authorities. Any and all lives taken should be condemned and so should be all acts of violence in our community", notes Richards.
As such, the Minister of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles has been briefed on the situation and a formal request is underway asking that police re-enforcements be made available to St. Maarten as soon as possible.
The recent killings and the repeated reports of home invasions, armed robberies and other violent incidents, is indicative that the criminal element continues operating with disdain for life and our safety, says Richards.
He noted that the present situation is truly alarming and is one requiring the immediate response of the responsible authorities, charged with guaranteeing safety and security for the people of St. Maarten.
Local Chief of Police, Governor Franklyn Richards says that the public and operators of businesses have no other choice but to stay alert, at all times, in an effort to aid authorities in their ongoing efforts to apprehend suspects still at large.
"All of us need to stay alert and recognize that we need to do more, in order to safeguard against the innocent loss of life", notes the Local Chief of Police.
With the Christmas holiday season approaching, St. Maarten can expect additional visitors on our shores. This creates an additional challenge to law enforcement agencies already trying to cope with insufficient personnel charged with maintaining law and order.
Residents and business establishments will do well to remind themselves, employees and security staff in what to do and what not to do before, during and after coming face to face with, for example, armed criminals, especially during this holiday season.
Whereas St. Maarten is still a relatively safe place to live, this is not to say that there is no need to address the expressions of fear, which are once more being voiced.
The appropriate role of particularly the central and kingdom governments should be to provide support and technical assistance. Governor Richards says that he remains in favor of greater police visibility with the presence of more police officers on the streets, intensified controls, and increased cooperation with the Marechaussees and RST team as well as temporary police re-enforcements from Curacao.
The Local Chief of Police meanwhile reminds victims of crime and persons witnessing or suspecting crimes to report these to police authorities immediately.

Philipsburg: ---- The island receivers would hold off its planned auction on Friday at the Westin Resort for the unpaid room tax dating back from 2004 to 2009 confirmed head of the Island Receivers Sherry Hazel. Hazel said she was informed early Friday morning that the lawyers managed to come to an agreement. She said Westin would put the monies owed to the island recievers in an escrow account pending the outcome of a court case which should be called within the next two weeks . "We would put off the auction until that court case is heard".

In the meantime, Leader of Government William Marlin is furious at the statements made by former commissioner of finance and tourism Roy Marlin on the Westin affair. Marlin said the current executive council the National Alliance/Heyliger and Laveist government has nothing to do with the letter of comfort given to Westin on March 11, 2005. Marlin said the Democratic Party Executive council had four years to change the room tax ordinance as they promised the Westin but that government did nothing to aid resort or to live up to their promise. According Marlin the former executive council had promised Westin to amend the room tax ordinance by mid 2005, which would allow Westin to qualify for a waiver on the room taxes. Marlin said the former executive council also made the same kind of promise to other resorts as well.
Marlin further explained that on November 6 2008 the Westin sent the executive council a letter regarding the so called letter of comfort and the Democratic Party Executive Council took a decision on January 22 2009 to write a letter to Westin notifying them that the executive council would not be able to honor the letter of comfort and as such they would have to pay what is owed to the island receivers office.
The letter he said states that the executive council has denied their request since the room tax ordinance remains unchanged therefore they would have to pay what is owed to island receivers.
Marlin said while a decision was taken by the former executive council on January 22 2009 that letter was sent to Westin on June 30 2009 creating the impression that this current government is involved in Westin demise.

Marlin said his government had absolutely no knowledge of the Westin's affair. He said that someone from Westin called him personally and requested answers from him after they received the letter. Marlin said it was then he asked Westin to provide the letter that was sent to them and he did some research to see what the actual problem was. Ever since then the current government has been trying to find a solution to the problem Marlin explained. According to the letter sent to Westin it states that the room tax ordinance is still undergoing revision, and the existing room tax ordinance makes no provision for the granting of exemptions and or waivers. It is also states that whenever the changes are made the Westin can apply for tourism incentives but that would not apply prior to the changes. As such, Westin must settle all its outstanding taxes and penalties with the island receiver's office forthwith to avoid any type of actions.
Marlin said he neither any member of his government did not go to the media to discuss this matter and the former commissioner is now trying to create the impression that they (Democratic Party) did all in their power to assist Westin. Marlin called on the island council member Roy Marlin to come clean and tell the people what his government did to the investor. He said Island Council man Roy Marlin said in one media report that the National Alliance/Heyliger/ Laveist government need to stop playing politics and deal with the issue at hand. Marlin said he wants to make clear that his government is currently busy cleaning up yet another mess that was created by the Democratic Party. Marlin said he wants to make crystal clear to the people of St. Maarten that the Democratic Party did not lift up one good finger to live up to their promise to Westin.
Marlin said his government is busy trying to settle this matter in an amicable way and they do not want any type of public fighting since that is not creating a good image for St. Maarten.
Marlin also made clear that his government would not take the blame for the Westin affair not even in the spirit of Christmas. In the meantime, lawyers for the island government and the Westin Resort were locked in a meeting on Thursday night to work out an agreement to stop the planned auction. Should there be an agreement SMN News will update its readers.

 

Quite revealing is how the Democratic Party faction would describe the discussions in the island council on the changes to the Corporate Governance Code as approved by the Island Council back in May of this year. While the changes proposed by the Executive Council presented nothing major, the Democratic Party pointed out some flaws in the process followed by the government. However, the manner in which members of government dodged issues such as that of GEBE was quite revealing. Is it asking too much of a government to give its views on the developments surrounding GEBE, both on a management level and on the supply of electricity to the consumers? Is the government as such being asked to sit on the chair of the board or management of GEBE?
We of the DP think not. After all, there is a Commissioner in charge of GEBE; this company falls under the portfolio of a Commissioner. Does that not give some authority? At least, the public is owed some information from those elected to represent them and who have taken charge over matters such as GEBE and other government-owned companies.
Good corporate governance, like good governance is meant to promote transparency and openness in government-owned companies and government respectively, not circumvent the very elements of transparency and openness.
Time will tell!

(Sarah Wescot Williams)

Great Bay,– "St. Maarten is an easy sell," says Jared McAllister of the New York Daily News, one of a group of eight journalists drawn from various publications in the US and Canada, who recently visited the island courtesy of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. The group was accompanied by Alexis Taggard of KTCpr, the marketing and PR firm that represents the island in the US market.
"This island is beautiful," remarked Catherine McElveen (freelance writer), stretching each syllable in "beautiful" like elastic. McElveen was on her first visit to the island, while McAllister says he had "lost count" of how many trips he has made here. "Obviously, I love St. Maarten," he said.
"Spectaacular," was how Felicia Persaud, a Guyanese-born, award-winning journalist, described the island. Ms. Persaud, editor of the influential Caribbean World News, had attended the official launch of St. Maarten's new branding strategy in New York before this her first trip to the island, hence her emphasis on the "aa" in "spectaacular".
For Simone Gent of Latina Style magazine, described as a "national magazine for the contemporary Hispanic woman," the press trip was not only insightful, but an eye-opener. "I was absolutely enchanted by the island," she said, adding that her story on St. Maarten will be published in the February/March 2010 edition of Latina Style. The magazine recently featured Justice Sonia Sotomayor – the first Hispanic woman to be appointed to the US Supreme Court - on its cover.
The group also included Melody Wren and Robin Tierney both of whom are freelance writers and did featured interviews with Ras Bushman of I-Tal Shack, and lauded his dedication to organic food.
Mrs. Wren also visited the I Can Foundation, where she took some gifts she had collected from students in Canada, especially for the children at the facility. She was full of praise and admiration for Ms. Cassandra Gibbs of the Foundation and promised to seek further assistance for the orphanage.

Alexis Lipsitz, who is working on a new edition of Frommers St. Maarten, said what fascinated her most about the island was the diversity it offered. "It's just incredible," she said.
One issue they all concured needed urgent attention is the traffic situation on the island. "Either there are two many cars or two few roads or both," observed Ms. Persaud while others agreed that the situation was "agonizingly frustrating".
Director of Tourism, Ms. Regina LaBega, said she was confident the island would reap substantial exposure from the visit of the US and Canadian journalists. "The significance of these press trips lies in the fact that the journalists can see for themselves and write their own stories from a lived experience. This has more credibility with their readers than an ad; it is priceless," she said.
Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson, expressed full support for such press trips and stressed that "nothing beats a story written from the point of view of an eye-witness."
"These reporters who come to visit our islands get to see and feel for themselves the experience we call St. Maarten. They can then give their readers an eye-witness account. This is a very effective way to market the destination," he said.
The group spent what one of them called "an intensive long weekend" on St. Maarten from December 10 – 14, and participated in several activities after an extensive island tour. Some members of the group paid a courtesy call on the Today newspaper, while the whole group met with the island's leading poet/author and publisher, Lasana Sekou, who presented each one of them with samples of some of the publications of House of Nehesi.
"I couldn't have asked for more," commented Kim Samuelson of Cuisine at Home Magazine on learning that House of Nehesi Publishers will be bringing out a cookbook by Yvette's as one of its first titles for the New Year.

Sandy Ground: -- The parents, relatives, teachers, and students of Sandy Ground Primary all have questions that are yet to be answered about the sudden death of 11-year-old Olivier Laurence Simon.
His mother Catherine Simon in an interview with SMN News said her son fell ill on November 27 2009. Simon said her son told her he ate something in school that day and he began having belly pains and was feeling extremely tired. Simon said she told her son to take a nap since he also played football that day. The next morning she said Olivier woke up with a fever and was vomiting. She said she took him to see a doctor located at the Marina Fort Royale and this doctor told her the child had dengue and he gave her a prescription to buy some medication. The mother said she was amazed at the diagnosis because the doctor never conducted any blood test but he determined that the child had dengue based on the symptoms. The mother said the doctor also gave her a letter to take to the Sandy Ground Primary School where the child is a student. "I am not a doctor so I did what the doctor told me and now my son is dead."

Simon said the child never got better instead his condition worsened and she then took him to the emergency room at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital on December 3 where the doctors also determined the child had dengue without conducting the necessary testing. She said at the hospital the doctor on duty gave the child some syrup and told her that she has to allow the medication given to her by the city doctor and the syrup he prescribed to work, since there is actually no medication for dengue.

Simon said her son was sent home on that day but the moment she left the hospital her son began telling her that the syrup that was given to him is scratching his mouth and inside of his stomach. She said despite that she bought the syrup and continued giving her son the medication that was prescribed to him but on December 9 the child collapsed.

Simon said she took the child back to the hospital because by then the child was vomiting blood. She said it was then the doctors at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital decided to admit the child and to conduct the necessary tests. "It was after they took a test they came to tell me that my son does not have dengue. Instead, he has a terrible infection and germ that has attacked his organs. The doctor said the infection already attacked his heart and lungs, but up to now no one can say what type of infection Olivier had." 'They told me the blood he was vomiting was coming from his throat but that too turned out to be false."
The distraught mother said she sat beside her son bedside and saw that the doctors at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital did not know what they were treating her son for and she even asked them to send the child to either Martinique or Guadeloupe where the doctors would be better equipped to diagnose her son's illness. She said the doctors told her that the same medication that is given to Olivier on St. Martin would be given to him elsewhere and that he would get better with time. On December 15, Simon said she left the hospital to go to her job since she did not report to work since the child got ill. She said shortly after she received a call and was told that she needed to return to the hospital immediately since her son needed blood and she needed to sign for him to get that blood. Simon said the doctor assured her that when the child is transfused he would get better. The woman said she signed the form and the minute the child got the blood his condition deteriorated. "My son was vomiting the blood they gave him. They gave him two bags of blood and he began vomiting it right away." She said she looked at her son and saw how he was breathing and she knew that he was dying. "It was then several doctors came including nurses and began working on my son as they prepare to ship him out to Martinique for further treatment." Simon said her child died as he was on his way to that island, and to date no doctor at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital can say what killed him.
"The doctors want me to stay quiet but I cannot, I need to know what killed my son and who is responsible for his death."

Bringing the Body Back to St. Martin.

Simon said when her son died the hospital called her and the doctors wanted to know what she is going to do now that he is dead. She said she met with a social worker who told her they could arrange for the child to be cremated in Martinique and the ashes can be brought back to St. Martin, which she refused. Catherine Simon a national of Dominica said the Social Worker told her she had no rights to contest or fight to bring the body of her son back to St. Martin since she has been residing on St. Martin illegally. Simons said ever since she has been raising funds to pay for her son's body to be returned to St. Martin, where he was born and went to school so that he can have a decent funeral, she said she also met with the prosecutor where she outlined her case.
In an invited comment, Vice Prosecutor Jacques Louvier said he did receive the parent and has ordered an autopsy. The autopsy he said should be conducted sometime this week in Martinique.

The fight to Obtain Residency.

Catherine Simon said she has been trying to obtain a Carte de Sejour for years but she has been denied. The woman said she arrived on St. Martin in the year 1996 with a French visa. Since then she has been working, and declaring her taxes. Catherine Simon also has an indefinite working contract along with social security.
However, for unknown reasons her application for residency on the French side has been denied on several occasions. She was asked to leave St. Martin which she tried doing but her island Dominica has refused to accept Olivier Laurence Simon since he was born on St. Martin and was not in possession of a travel document. Simon said she was forced to return to St. Martin with her son and ever since then she has been residing and working on the French side with an indefinite working contract.
The woman said when her son died the social worker contacted the Prefecture to see if they could grant her a lesser passer (travel permit) to go over to Martinique to arrange her son autopsy and that too was denied. She said after insistence the prefecture had decided to give her authorization for one day but that was not enough.
Catherine Simon is now calling on the prefecture to tell her what she has done to St. Martin or those responsible for the granting of residency for them to deny her. She said even her son who was born on the island did not have any documents even though he was attending school.
The child she said once asked her if he was not from St. Martin and Dominica where is he from since he was supposed to travel with his school to Guadeloupe. The woman said a teacher from that school fought for her child to go along with his class, which he did not long before he died. Furthermore, Simon has a daughter who has completed school on the French side and the prefecture also denied her residency. "Someone at the prefecture told my 18 year old daughter that the only way she can get her papers is if she bore a child for someone from St. Martin."

In an invited comment, Monsieur Nicoli said that he was at his office from 7 am to grant the Simon a one-day permit to travel to Martinique to cremate her son but no one ever went to pick up the document. Nicoli said the assistant social from the hospital made the arrangements for him to be at his office at 7 am and no one ever contacted him after to say they were not interested in the one-day permit. Furthermore, asked why Simon could not have her documents Nicoli said that he did not have any dossier for the woman. He said people have to respect the law when applying for French residency, which includes the speaking of the French language.

 

On Tuesday December 29th at approximately 07.25 p.m. during a control done by a unit of the 0-tolerance Team, a black vehicle with license plate P-7992 with very dark tinted windows was stopped, because of the occupants behaving very suspiciously when they saw the patrol.
The vehicle in question was stopped in the vicinity of Cable T.V. on the Arch road. As the officer approached the vehicle, the driver stepped out and walked towards the officer. At that same time the officer noticed what looked like the handle of a revolver sticking out of the door compartment on the driver side of the vehicle. When the officers investigated the situation further, they realized that it was indeed the handle of a nickle plated revolver, calibre .38. This fire-arm was confiscated for further investigation. A small amount of marijuana, a switch blade and other items which can be used to commit armed robberies were also found. Both occupants of that vehicle with initials B.G. from the Dominican Republic and B.D. from Haiti were arrested in taken to the Philipsburg Police Station and handed over to the Narcotic and Fire Arm Division.

A New Year's message usually contains hopeful expectations for the approaching 12 calendar months. In our case, we are ringing in the 2nd decade of the 21st century. Ten years later is a good reference point for more than one reason and the number 10 has an stirring ring to it.
The year 2010 starts off on an exciting note. While not the most favored election, there will be the election for the Antillean Parliament on January 22, 2010 and from all indications the last one for that Parliament. It is also anticipated that a few short months later, this will be followed by another election, this time for persons to represent you in our new country.
None of this would have been possible were it not for the years of work and preparations Saint Martin put into the process of becoming that country within the Dutch Kingdom. That prospect is now closer than ever and Saint Martin can rightfully claim to be the catalyst of the constitutional changes taking place within the Dutch Kingdom.
Am I ignoring the past 12 months? How could I ever? 2009 has been a year of so many changes and challenges for Saint Martin, the likes of which we have not seen for a long time.
These changes and challenges have permeated all layers of our society, politically, economically and socially.
How could I not reflect on the political intricacies that dominated the political landscape of Saint Martin, starting in the latter part of 2008 and reaching their culmination in 2009.
The Democratic Party, as the Party that governed Saint Martin uninterruptedly since 1999, was of course affected in no small measure by the political occurrences of 2009, but its foundation remained strong and its members and supporters steadfast.
Personally, I hold the view that the rift in the Democratic Party, which surfaced in 2009, was brewing for some time and in retrospect, it was a good thing to get it over with, even though it meant losing control of the majority in the island council.
I am a firm believer that in retreat (not defeat, retreat), we can examine our challenges, we can take a fresh look at things. The political upheaval that came our way in 2009 has given the Democratic Party that kind of opportunities.
From the perspective of an opposition party since June 8, 2009, new insights could have been gained and our focus could be redirected.
It is with a much clearer sense of direction and purpose that the Democratic Party is taking part in the election of January 22, 2010, at the same time preparing ourselves for the election which will herald in the new status and a government that for the first time will be solely in charge of the affairs of the Saint Martin citizens.
The election in January is important. The persons you elect must ensure that the process to country is completed and Saint Martin's interests defended tooth and nail in this process.
Economically, we have been and are still being challenged, as we like most others combat the fall-out of the global financial and economic crises. More persons on Saint Martin have been affected by this crisis, than a first assessment would have one believe.
The amount of persons in search of employment, regardless to what the records show, is on the rise. For many, income has shrunk. And with the unemployment, the spread of poverty on Saint Martin is raising its head.
Saint Martin needs to combat this phenomenon before it gets totally out of hand. We can not continue with superficial improvements, when just below the surface, the signs of something amiss are starting to manifest themselves.
Coupled with the escalating crime, it should be clear that as a community we need to refocus and re-examine our priorities, as a community.
The legalizing of persons via the so-called Brooks Tower Accord, most of whom through their labor have contributed to our society for years is nothing more than the rectification of a situation that has been allowed to exist for much too long.
However, let us not turn a blind eye to the effects of this measure on our community as a whole. Most of these "new" residents of Saint Martin were forced to live on the peripherals of society, because of their illegal status. With this being rectified, we need to take into account that official population numbers will skyrocket with all consequences (positive and negative) of such for areas such as education, health, social security and the like. We need to be prepared to deal with these.
It is we on Saint Martin who will have to deal with this new reality. That these persons have been or will be given one year's residency is but a short respite before our island will have to decide where we go from here. How will these persons be treated long term? A clear policy needs to be developed and in time, because before we know it, that year will be over.
Without the "soft" sectors, such as education and health keeping pace with the hard infrastructure, we will be neglecting the most important factors of our overall development.
And then, there are the matters of crime and violence, escalating at an alarming rate in our view. Clearly, the calls to the central government at this time are going unheeded and we need intermediate measures as we work on the long term plan to improve the organization of our police force.
It's no comfort to the victims of crime to compare our crime statistics with others who fare worse than we do. It is just too much for our island and its people.
Yet, we can and must be hopeful about the new year ahead of us. We have some undisputed strengths as a people and as a nation. Our diversity being one of those strengths.
Diversity is not the equivalent of separation. Diversity does demand a common purpose and common goals as a nation; agreed upon priorities. Diversity demands tolerance and empathy.
During the holiday season, year after year, we see the best come out in our citizens, the care for one another and for the less fortunate among us. Let's not put that goodheartedness away until the next season. We must keep the connectivity in our community going.
Realize that as the world is more and more interconnected, so is our island. For our island to continue to prosper, we need to pay particular attention to the more vulnerable ones in our community. Social safety nets must be construed for those in need. Districts must continue to be empowered. They are the cornerstones of our community.
And let's not forget our youth. Let's pool all resources available to assist our young people. Let's give the Youth Policy some teeth and undertake action.
Our proverbial plate is full as we enter the new year, but guess what? This has not deterred us in the past and it surely will not now.
I call on all residents of our beautiful island to join hands this coming year as we put on the biggest fight yet to move from standing at the threshold of a new status to embarking on the road of country. A rocky road it sometimes will be , but one that holds great prospects if we are up to challenge.
I continue to believe in that indomitable spirit of the St. Martiner, our ability to lift ourselves up by the bootstraps when necessary and to look forward to better days ahead.
With this in mind, and on behalf of the entire Democratic Party, I wish the people of our island, here and abroad, a most prosperous and healthy new year. I hope 2010 brings us all we wish for and more and I pray that God will continue to bless our island nation Saint Martin abundantly.

Happy New Year!

Orient Beach: ----- A former employee and owner of a small boat is now nursing gunshot wounds. The victim has been identified as Fabrice a French national who was shot while on a motor bike that was being ridden by one of his friends.

According to eyewitnesses, the man was walking towards Club Orient with his girlfriend when another man identified as Philippe picked him up on his motor bike leaving the girlfriend on the roadside. The eyewitnesses said shortly after four men all on scooters began following the motorbike that picked up Fabrice. They said at the entrance of Club Orient a fight broke out, and the security guard that was working tried to intervene, but when his efforts were not sufficient he decided to call the gendarmes. “It was during this time one of the four attackers shot Fabrice. But what is strange about all of this is when Fabrice girlfriend saw the four scooters approaching her boyfriend and Philippe she took off running towards the pond.” One eyewitness said it seems as though the girlfriend knows the attackers. The victim also has a green boat that is currently docked on Orient Beach.

In an invited comment, Managing Director of Club Orient Stephen Paynes said that crime is all over the world and it happens frequently in tourist areas.

Paynes said there are cameras all over Club Orient and the shooting is on tape. He said he already turned over the DVR hard-drive to the investigators. Paynes said he is not sure if there were two or three shots that were fired but the victim he said was hurt somewhere in the chest area. He said when he saw the victim on the ground he took a towel from the resort and begin to apply pressure until the ambulance arrived on the scene. “It was clear that the victim was in pain but it appeared as if his injuries are not fatal.” Paynes said the bullet looks like a 9mm but he is not an expert on guns and bullets.

Paynes said it appeared as though the attackers were going after the motor bike but he is not sure what could have caused the broad daylight shooting. Paynes also confirmed that the victim worked at Club Orient years ago and he owns a boat. The victim he said speaks Spanish fluently.

Violence and Crime is a fact of Life—says Paynes.

Paynes said violence and crime is a fact of life and it happens everywhere especially in tourist destinations but when incidents such as these take place the economy is affected. “The hotel is 70% full and we are up 10% from last year and I am sure this would affect our business.” The businessman said he worked in several countries for example Indonesia and crime is far worst there. Paynes recounted an incident that took place in Tacoma where four policemen were shot on Sunday. While none of this is an excuse for crime, he said people have to know that crime happens everywhere and St. Martin is no exception. He said crime is definitely affecting the economy but felt that there needs to be more community policing if St. Martin is to be more effective in handling crime.

Police he said has to be an integral part of the community if they are to fight and reduce crime. The businessman felt there is need to have police (Gendarmes) stay longer on St. Martin so they can get to know the people here. He further explained that when a community is small the pain of crime is more severe. This is said would definitely affect the tourism trade and more has to be done to protect it. Paynes said he had a cocktail party scheduled to take place at 5pm on Monday for his guest but due to the shooting, his guests could not even check in on time.

 

The Bahamas Union of Teachers is proud and honored to host the fifty delegates attending the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) Executive Committee Meeting 4th – 5th December 2009 at Walkers Hall, Bethel Avenue. The delegates will arrive on Thursday 3rd December from twenty one Caribbean nations stretching from Bermuda in the North to Suriname in the South. They will include Mr. Roustan Job, President (Trinidad & Tobago), Dr. Adolph Cameron, Secretary General (Jamaica), other officers of the CUT, and Mrs. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Education International (EI) Regional Coordinator for North America and the Caribbean (St. Lucia). The CUT rotates the venue of its Executive Committee Meetings between the member countries. This is the second time that the BUT is hosting this prestigious meeting in ten years. The items on the agenda include:
• Disaster Preparedness & Mitigation Workshop
• Collective Bargaining and ICT Workshops
• Assistance to Haiti
• Les Harris Cricket Competition
• Reports: Secretary General, Financial, Vice Presidents, Units, EI Regional Report, and Status of Women's Committee Reports.

The Caribbean Union of Teachers is a member of EI and it is the regional trade union body for teachers' unions in the Caribbean. The BUT is a member of EI through its membership in the CUT. The CUT Secretariat is located at the Jamaica Teachers Association headquarters, Kingston, Jamaica, and its motto is "Each for All - All for Each." The BUT has a history with the CUT dating back to the days of Bro. A. Leonard Archer, Past President. The 15th President of the BUT, Mr. Kingsley Black was First Vice President of the CUT (2003-2005), and the 32nd biennial Conference of the CUT was hosted by him in August 2005.

At the CUT 34th Biennial Conference which was held in Grenada in August, 2009, Sis Adeltis Bain-Stubbs was re-elected to serve as a member of the CUT Status of Women's Committee, a position she has held for more than six years. Sis Belinda Wilson, BUT President, was appointed to the Sporting Committee, and Bro. Stephen Mcphee, Secretary General, BUT, was appointed to the Finance and Public Relations Committees. Sis. Helena Cartwright, Past Secretary General, was also awarded for her service to the CUT Status of Women's Committee at the CUT 34th Biennial Conference. She was a long standing member of the Status of Women's Committee.

The Bahamas Union of Teachers has planned and prepared to treat our special guests to a great Bahamian experience before they leave on Sunday, 6th December. Their itinerary includes:
• Friday, 4th December, 2009 – Bahamian Breakfast (8a.m.,), Opening Ceremony (9:30a.m.), Business Sessions, Christmas Concert, H.O. Nash Jr. High (7p.m.), BUT New Providence District Social (8:30p.m.)
• Saturday, 5th December – Bahamian Breakfast, Business Sessions, Visit to Junkanoo Shack, Tour of Historical Sites, Tour of Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamian 'Lime' – visit to local entertainment night spot.

Again, the BUT is proud and honoured to host the Caribbean Union of Teachers Executive Committee Meeting in Nassau, the capital of the most beautiful country on the planet for the second time in ten years. We'll do our best to demonstrate to our brothers and sisters from "Yard", Barbados, Trinidad and rest of the Caribbean why "It's better in The Bahamas." "Unite and Build!"

 

Spring French Quarter: --- Three Chinese nationals are now nursing severe head injuries at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital on Monday night. According to information, reaching SMN News some youngsters on scooters went to the Hang Cheong Supermarket located behind the Gendarmerie in Spring French Quarter and attacked all three of the attendants that were in the supermarket working.
The attack it is understood, took place around 7:30pm. Eyewitnesses to the crime said the robbers who were armed fired gunshots while carrying out the robbery. One bystander said two of the victims received gun butts on the head while another was stabbed in his head. "All three of the victims had head injuries and they were taken to the hospital by the ambulances." The attackers stole the monies that were in the cash register but the amount was not known.
In an invited comment proprietor of Hang Cheong said he does not know how badly his employees were injured. The man said he was at Grand Case in another Supermarket when he received a phone call telling him about the robbery. "When I reached the scene the doctor was already here and they had them in the ambulance, so I cannot say how badly they are injured." The proprietor said even though his supermarket is not far away from the gendarmerie in French Quarter he was robbed on several occasions. He said he is tired of changing cash registers and nothing ever came out of the investigations. The man who did not want to give his name to this reporter urged us to check and see how big is his robbery files at the Gendarmerie. SMN News could not reach the commandant for a comment at press time. Efforts made to contact the Vice Prosecutor were also futile.
About two hours after the robbery several gendarmes were seen on next to the ball field conducting a control. Several youngsters as well as grown men were being controlled since they were hanging outside another supermarket on Rue Lamegeot.

Winter's Words, a dinner and spoken word evening organized by Lysanne Charles and friends will take place at Top Carrot Restaurant in Simpson Bay on Monday, December 14th at 7:30pm sharp.
The format of Winter's Words follows that of the popular Summer Speaks series which ran on Monday nights throughout the month of July.
Attendees will first have a delicious dinner prepared by Top Carrot's owner Peter and Lydia Bonev and their staff. Dinner will be served with the choice of a wine or juice. After dinner dessert and bush tea will be served, before guests retire to the poetry corner for about an hour to hear some of the island's freshest poets.
Charles said that the line-up for the program was strong, with a diverse cast of performers including Roberto Arrindell, Peter Lake, Lenworth Wilson, Rene Violenus, Lorenzo 'Sigma' Gomez, Laurent 'Trilogy' Ulysse, Rochelle Ward and herself. This time around poets will be able to read about any topic they choose to, so she expects that the flow and content of the poems will differ widely from poet to poet, highlighting the variety of lived experiences on the island.
"I heard almost all of these poets read and they are amazing. For myself, I just try my best to deliver a quality poem, which audiences can enjoy. Summer Speaks was an amazing experience and that is why I wanted to replicate it only this time celebrating the winter solstice. Initially the date was scheduled for December 21st, officially the longest day of the year, but scheduling did not permit for it, so I shifted it ahead a week. But still this evening is all about celebrating poetry and spoken word and I encourage people to come out and support us in this effort," Charles said.
She explained that tickets for the events must be purchased in advance and said that reservations and payments could be made at Top Carrot Restaurant between now and Monday 12pm. The event caters to a maximum of 30 people and so interested person should contact the restaurant as soon as possible.
"We look forward to performing for everyone and having a great time. Winter's Words will be another poetic experience spoken word lovers on the island would not want to miss," Charles said.

Windward Islands Airways is responding to serious, malicious, damaging and deliberately orchestrated rumors geared at discrediting the airline. The airline through its Managing Director, Edwin Hodge pointed out that the public should be aware of false rumors which have been stating that the airline will be pulling out of Antigua and Barbuda at the end of March next year.

"I would like to assure and reiterate to our customers out there that Winair has no plans to cease operation next year in Antigua and Barbuda and even Montserrat as we recognize the level of service that we provide which we know are urgently needed . Therefore, any attempts to instill the belief that Winair will be ceasing to operate after March 2010 should be deemed as malicious and deliberate attempt at creating confusion," Hodge said.

He noted that the rumors are being peddled by individuals who are bent on distracting customers and the public to the enormous achievements and growth of the airline while noting that it is a means t reducing Winiar's rapidly growing revenues in Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat. "We will not be distracted by the actions of a few as we are confident that the general public is fully aware of the enormous work being done," Hodge said.

The Winair MD stressed that his company remains committed and dedicated to the people and governments of Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat noting that su8nintersupted services will continue as long as thee is a need for the airline.

"We intend to continue operating here (Antigua and Barbuda) and in Montserrat until our services are no longer needed for the essential services by the Antigua and Montserrat Government. Therefore, please be advised that anything contrary to this should be seen as a deliberate attempt to create undue fear and confusion," he declared.

Hodge added that those involve in peddling the baseless allegations and rumors should immediately desist from doing so noting that Winair will continue to remain a string and vibrant airline. He further added that a number of new and exciting initiatives are being debated currently by management with a view of continuing to lift the service and quality of the airline to its various destinations for 2010.

"Winair has been around for some 48 years and therefore we want to assure the public of my company's continue trust and commitment in continuing tom prove safe and reliable air transport thus I warn those detractors to seize their baseless mission of attempting to ruin the impeccable record and image of Winair as it will not work," Hodge declared.

 

Great Bay, St. Martin-Last weekend, Deejblaze hosted a [RED] Party in observance of World AIDS Day at the Secret Nightclub & Lounge. It was reported in the "Today" newspaper of Monday, December 7, that there was a fight at the [RED] Party, which proved to be incorrect.
The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team and Deejblaze would like to clarify exactly what took place at the club. Deejblaze stated that to his knowledge there was no fight in the night club and the parking lot.
"I know there was an argument in the club after Macka Diamond's performance, and I stopped the party 30 minutes prior to closing time, which is 4AM," said Deejblaze.
He further mentioned that the police was on location and arrested a drunken man who wanted to cause problems outside. "Other than that, the event was a success," said Deejblaze.

Philipsburg:---- Police arrested three Guyanese nationals a male and two female who are part of the shoplifter's gang on the island. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police managed to get information from members of the public regarding the three culprits. Henson said members of the public called the "tip line" 9300 and alerted police as to where the Guyanese nationals were staying. Henson said when the arrest was made on Friday several items were found on them and they were not able to provide police with where they got the items from. Henson said police also searched the place where the trio was staying and found several bags of new clothing and no explanation can be given as to where it was bought. The police spokesman said the items mostly clothing has been confiscated as the investigation continues.

Henson said the police already received information about several groups of persons that are operating in the three's and four's shoplifting around the island. The police spokesman has also issued a warning for all shop owners to pay keen attention as to what is taking place at their place of business. The police spokesman also asked that the businesses take the necessary precaution to safeguard their businesses.

Philipsburg:---The court of first instance has ordered, on November 23 of this year, the Netherlands Antilles to pay a total sum of 10.000 Naf to the two men from Sri Lanka, that were recently 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, an additional 3800 NAF has to be paid by the authorities for legal fees and court costs
The judge stated that that their custody was unlawful. The authorities claimed that it was not possible to repatriate them any sooner. The judge found that hard to believe with the many flights per week from St.Maarten to the major airports(hubs) in Europe and beyond.
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. However, 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.
The judge decided, on November 23 and as expected, that the treatment of the two men was unacceptable and therefore un-lawful.

Philipsburg:--- Police had a rough day on Friday as they were called to several crime scenes. However, they were surprised when they were called to intervene in a fight between two grown men. On the scene, police encountered both men identified as E.D and C.W in blood.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in a press release said the incident took place in the vicinity of the Coliseum Casino and that one of the victims took a knife and cut off the other victim's finger. Henson said both men were transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center for treatment. He said when police interviewed the two men they learnt that the fight started due to the smoking of marijuana in the area of the casino. Henson said C.W used a knife and a piece of wood as weapons to cut off E.D finger. He said doctors at the St. Maarten Medical Center operated on the victim in order to replace the severed ring finger on his right hand. The detective department is still busy investigating this case.
In an unrelated case police was directed to Back Street where they found a man identified as E.V.H with severe wounds to his face. E.V.H was found in the vicinity of the cadastre office lying on the ground. He told police that on his way home to Sucker Garden he was attacked by two unknown men who had beaten him with some sort of weapons. E.V.H said his attackers robbed him of his monies. He was treated for his injuries while police are busy investigating the case.

Marigot: --- Several Dutch police vehicles were seen on Monday midday racing over the border in Bellevue in a high-speed chase. Eyewitnesses say they saw at least five police cars raced through St. James and Low Town. One eyewitness said that the police were chasing an alleged robber who was on a motorcycle who eventually crashed his bike and fell but police did not manage to stop the thief as he still managed to escape. It is further understood that the gendarmes took at least half an hour after the accident to arrive on the scene.
According to information reaching SMN News the Dutch side police does not have any authority to cross over to the French side and vise versa. In an invited comment, Christophe Coelho from the Prefecture of St. Martin said the agreement discussions between the Dutch and French is still ongoing. He said while there are certain levels of cooperation between the two sides the police and gendarmes are not permitted to cross over the border even if it is a high-speed chase.
The gendarmes and the police do have a verbal agreement pertaining to high-speed chase. Some years ago, a radio and telephone system was put into service for the two sides to contact each other in the event of an emergency, such as high-speed chases or the capturing of criminals who are trying to escape law enforcement on either side.
In a press release, Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said while they were in Dutch Quarter conducting an investigation they identified a suspect for whom a warrant is out. Henson said they have been looking for this suspect for quite sometime and when the detectives attempted to approach him, he took off on a motor cycle trying to avoid being captured. Henson said the detectives immediately contacted the central dispatch who also contacted the gendarmes and they promised to get to the scene immediately. The police spokesman said the Dutch police also notified the gendarmes that they were going to go across the border hoping that they would capture the wanted man. Henson said the chase continued on to St. James and the biker fell but he got up unhurt and began running through the residential area. Henson said police conducted a foot chase but the culprit still managed to escape through the buildings. He said the gendarmes have since taken over the investigation.

Philipsburg: --- The island receiver's office has placed a lien on the Westin Resort for unpaid room taxes. SMN News learnt that the lien was placed on the resort some two months ago and to date the resort has not attempted to turn over the room taxes dating back to 2004.
According to reliably sources Westin did not turn over their room taxes from 2004 to 2009 simply because the former executive council led by the Democratic Party had issued them a letter of intent promising to waiver the room taxes if they were going to use those funds to further invest on the island.

Westin was supposed to invest in the training of locals and other infrastructure that would have boosted the tourism industry. The former executive council had promised to grant the waiver for at least five years whenever they changed the legislation. However, to date no changes were made to the legislation and Westin did not pay any of its room taxes which were to be turned over to the island receiver the 15th day of each month. It is not clear if the Island Receivers office ever sent them an assessment on how much must they owed government on a monthly basis.
SMN News learnt that the island receivers have decided to place a lien on the resort to make sure they comply with the current tax laws and the statues of limitation. It is also understood that all resorts and or guesthouses must turn over all room taxes by the 15th of each month and they are not to wait for an assessment.

The source said the Westin has sent a letter to the island government telling them they intend to launch a court action against government based on the letter of intent they received from the former executive council in 2004. The source said Westin letter came clean after they received a letter from the island receiver notifying them that they would be placing a lien on the resort for the 2004 room tax.
According to Westin's claim, they are claiming the island government had raised their intention by issuing a letter where they clearly stated that the legislation was to be changed. Westin is also claiming that Curacao did the same thing some years ago for the Sonesta Resort; however, they failed to mention that Curacao had to revoke their own legislation after several resorts and guest houses protested citing discrimination.

SMN News learnt that the advisors for commissioner of finance held meetings with the head of finance Bas Roorda and the island receiver to determine what course of action would be taken in this case.
The source said the island government would make sure they inform Westin that they would have to make their payments since the current executive council would not honor the letter given to them by the former executive council. Secondly, the island government is not authorized to waiver taxes for anyone unless the law is changed; besides that changing, the legislation for them would be discriminatory. Referring to Curacao the island government it is said would inform Westin that Curacao revoked that legislation after it was determined that the legislation made for Sonesta was discriminatory. Furthermore, unless a new law is passed Westin is bound by the old laws and they must turn over monies they are holding for the island government.

SMN News has also learnt that several other resorts have the same type of letter of intent from the former executive council and the island receiver is currently busy with the procedures against those resorts.

Philipsburg: --- Some 46 persons mostly children were given their decree of the Dutch nationality on Tuesday at the 5th naturalization ceremony held this year. Presenting the decrees was Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards who urged the new Dutch citizens to join the other Dutch citizens in building country St. Maarten.

The 46 persons who received their Dutch nationality on Kingdom Day came from 11 different countries, namely the Dominican Republic, Haiti, China, Guyana, Dominica, St. Kitts, Jamaica, India, Suriname, Venezuela, and the United States of America.
Of the 46 persons, three of them opted to use the declaration of solidarity process.

Richards said 26 of the recipients were born on St. Maarten and are under the age of 10-years.

Richards in his address to the recipients said that since last year it became mandatory procedure before anyone can obtain the Dutch Nationality. He said that as of December 2008 some 249 persons obtained their Dutch nationality during the naturalization ceremonies held on St. Maarten. Richards said the naturalization process and the laws have been amended to make the naturalization ceremony mandatory.

Philipsburg:---The Police Department, as like the previous years, have started its "end of the year controls." To conduct these controls the police department has brought all its resources together. The controls started on Monday December 14 2009 and will end in January 2010.
This project will consist of many different types of controls and will cover the entire Dutch Side of the island. The focus will be mainly to suppress and minimize the amount of armed robberies and other criminal activities.

Controlling of traffic violators, strict maintaining of public order, increasing the visibility of the police on the streets especially in those areas where tourists would likely visit. Most of all to provide help for those who need it. The Police department is also asking the public for their total cooperation.

That at all times they should carry proper identification on them in case they are stopped by a police officer. If so, they will immediately be able to identify themselves and avoid any unnecessary inconvenience. Make use of the "police tip line" to inform them of any criminal activity. The public should also take all necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim of any sort during this busy holiday season.

The faction of the Democratic Party in the Island Council has called on the Executive Council to convene a meeting of the Permanent Committee for Constitutional Affairs (PCCA). This call came as the Island Council on December 26 ratified the decision list of this Council of October 27 2009 among others. In the meeting of October 27, it was decided to refer all documentation of the Kingdom Political Steering Group meeting of September 30 to a PCCA meeting.
No such meeting has been convened up to this date. One would recall all the commotion surrounding the transfer of the chairmanship of the PCCA from the former Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams to the current Commissioner. To date however, no meeting of the PCCA under chairmanship of Commissioner W. Marlin has been convened.
The constitutional process remains one that all members of island should be not only interested in, but involved as well. This involvement can take place in a meeting of the PCCA. Not all island council members are privy to discussions on the level of the Kingdom Political Steering Group, so this information must not only be shared, but deliberated upon and all island council factions are called to represent the people and let their voices be heard on this matter of constitutional change.

(Sarah Wescot Williams)

Dutch Quarter: --- The manager and cashier of the Food Club Supermarket (Afoo Group) was shot dead on Wednesday evening. According to eyewitnesses some men dressed in dark clothing entered the supermarket with shotguns and opened fire. The manager who is well known in the community as Eric was pronounced dead on the scene by the police doctor. SMN News learnt that at least three persons were shot during the shootout.

On the scene were several police officers from the Armed Robbery Unit as well as Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos and Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Daphne Francesca.

On the main road and alongside alley next to the supermarket several bystanders and friends of the deceased man gathered outside as the investigators gathered their evidence. Most of the onlookers were in complete disbelief as the victim is well known and extremely friendly to his customers. His long time partner also collapsed on the scene as the undertakers removed the body of the slain businessman. Eric it is understood celebrated his birthday on Tuesday.

Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the police central received a phone call around 7:50 pm informing them that a robbery was taking place at the Food Club and gunshots were heard.

Henson said based on preliminary information at least four men entered the supermarket all of them armed with shotguns. The police spokesman said that as the robbers entered the supermarket and they began firing shots, he said they then proceeded to the office where they found the manager where he was robbed of an undisclosed amount of monies. Henson said it is understood that after the monies were taken the bandits turned around and shot the businessman, he said at least five gunshots were fired during the robbery. Henson based on how the incident took place police is now trying to piece together why the bandits shot Eric since they had already robbed him. Also shot was a female who was shot somewhere in the leg area while a bullet grazed another person, the victim he said was shot to the chest by a shotgun which resulted in his death. A spent shell belonging to a shotgun was also found in the parking lot. Police believed the robbers escaped by foot.
In the meantime, police department is calling on all eyewitnesses who saw what took place to call the police tip-line 9300 with whatever information they may have. Henson said police need the assistance of the general public and as such he urged anyone who might have seen what took place to contact them.

Dear Citizens and Friends of Sint Maarten,

Happy New Year 2010!

As we start a new decade for the 21st Century, I am happy and great full to be able to welcome a new year by the Grace of God. What a 'testing' year 2009 has been. Whatever this new year, this new decade, has in store for us as individuals or collectively as citizens of Sint Maarten, will depend a great deal on your own resolve, your own healthy ambition, your own passion, your own commitment to see these goals become reality.

Personally, whenever I'm asked to write my thoughts and share these with you, I count my Blessings that I am able and willing to do so. I looked back at my message of last year and compared that to what we as a people and visitors experienced over the past 12 months. I realized that our faith and trust has indeed been severely tested including as I stated last December; 'our faith and trust in the institutions that are supposed to protect our citizens and their hard earned savings.'

I care deeply and believe firmly in the ability of this beautiful island Sint Maarten. But we must not take it for granted. The constitutional changes that will affect our lives in the next few years, including the outcome of the parliamentary elections of January 22nd must be carried out with resolve, openness, honesty and in frank dialogue with our people. It is a fact that this new year, our resolve will be tested more than ever, with limited human and financial resources and increased responsibilities. Good governance, accountability and transparency in decision making will no longer be just words. We will have to walk, the talk.

Ladies, and gentlemen, Do you want to give up on having a better quality of life, a better and safe neighborhood, a great educational system, less crime, cleaner environment, a traffic system that works, better regulated building codes and yes, more help for our people?

I don't think so. We can never give up and never give in. All of us including yourself, can make Sint Maarten a greater state. This year, my desire is to do more than just write and hope for the best.

This year I want to help bring much needed 'Enthusiasm' back into our lives. I ask you to join me in making this resolution a reality for 2010.

As Abraham Lincoln once said; "People are just about as happy as they make up their minds to be."

I thank you for this opportunity to address you. Have a safe, healthy and Happy New Year.

God bless and protect Sint Maarten and its people.

Obo the Peoples Progressive Alliance,
Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell.

Mullet Bay: --- Police got lucky early Monday morning when someone called to tip them off about a go fast boat, which had dropped off some 21 Haitians on Mullet Bay beach. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in his police report said on November 30th at approximately 01.00 a.m. a report came in to the Central Police Dispatch, that a "go fast boat" had just came in to the Mullet bay beach area and was letting-off a large amount of possibly illegal persons. Several patrols and Immigration Officers went on the scene where they encountered 21 illegal persons from Haiti on the beach. After dropping, the immigrants off the boat took off for open waters. All persons caught were taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where they will be held for processing and to insure their safe return to their country. The Immigration department is investigating this matter.

 

 

 

Marigot: Leader of the RRR party Alain Richardson has sent a letter to the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs asking that the rules of governance be respected. Richardson said he had intended to deliver his message during the last territorial council meeting but did not due to the death threats that were issued to the president and senator.
In the letter Richardson reminded the president of several incidents where the senator was sitting at the head of the council meetings which according to him is illegal. He further stated that the calendar for the council meetings are set based on the senator's schedule.
Richardson said when he addressed this matter in the past he was accused of having ill feelings for the senator. He also stated that on several occasions the senator would be the one who would inform the population on developments on the island level, things that are not in his portfolio, thus he is asking the president to begin instituting the rules of governance on St. Martin.
Below is the full text of the letter that was presented to the president last week.

Group of elected officials members of the Island Council of ST-MARTIN

M. Frantz GUMBS
President of the Island Council

Hôtel de la Collectivité
Marigot
SAINT-MARTIN

St-Martin, le 03-12-2009

Honorable President,

As I had proposed to do, please find the integral text of my intervention during the last Island Council meeting

Very respectfully,

« Honorable President, my dear colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I wish to address a matter which I consider to be serious, or rather very serious because it deals with the credibility of our institutions and therefore of our community at large.
Within the Republic, the institutions play a major role in the matter of governance. The institutions are the pillars of Democracy. That is why one usually says that men pass, but institutions remain.
To ensure good governance and the stability of institutions, there are major regulations which are to be observed and respected:

- The separation of powers,
- The non intrusion,
- The autonomy of the administrative divisions or communities,
- The independence of some functions,
- etc.
-
Our community is also provided with institutions and the main institutions are:
- The Territorial
- The Territorial Council or Island Council
- The President
- The Advisory Council for economic, social and cultural affairs

Furthermore, our community is also represented on the national level in some institutions of the Republic (the Parliament and for now, the Senate as well as the National Advisory Council for economic and social affairs).
At all levels of the Republic, the above mentioned regulations (separation of powers, independence, autonomy and non intrusion) remain fundamental.
No matter how much of a President you say you are, I dare you to sit in any seat at the Senate's level or to even become a senator.
Mister President, my dear colleagues, I wish to call to remembrance when President first took office, I protested and questioned him on the legality and the legitimacy of the fact that the Senator Louis-Constant FLEMING sat at the head table during our council meeting seeing he is not a member of the said council (seeing he had been demoted from his position). I was then attacked and criticized as if I had dared to touch the untouchable. One even asked me, even accused me of having a personal problem with or against M. L.-C. FLEMING.
Honorable President, from the beginning of your presidency, the Senator has systematically sat at the head table of all your council meetings. Not only did he sit but the very calendar of meetings was determined based on whether or not he could be present and attend.
The problem does not stop here, unfortunately. It is the Senator who announces and who presents in the press before hand and generally in exclusivity all the projects that Island Government of Saint-Martin is or will be working on. In all his radio interviews, he only deals with subject matters which are the exclusive affairs of the Island territory's institutions (whether the President's, the Advisory council or the Island Council's). He's the one who talks about local taxes, on the finances of the local government, on the administration of the Island Community, on its investments, in short, on every matter that does not fall under his portfolio as Senator. In fact, all those indications clearly demonstrate that the Senator is de facto the President.
Thus, during the Sandy-Ground Fête, on August 15 last, the elected officials learnt while the Senator gave his speech, that there will be a road that will go along the coast of the lagoon and which, at the level of the Sandy-Ground bridge, will cross over the lagoon to reach the area of Bellevue. He even informed everyone on that occasion the bid was done. Neither this Council, nor the executive council, nor the committee for bids have been convened to decide upon any such matter. (If this project is a project conducted by the Senate, please, accept my most sincere apologies for having unjustly accused the Senator L.-C. FLEMING who actually only acted rightfully).
Here's another recent example. On the airwaves of one of the local radio stations, the Senator announced the imminent putting in place on the territory of the island of Saint-Martin, of a tax that will be similar to the « turnover tax ». He went ahead and gave details regarding its implementation, the regulations that will enforce it, etc. All the while, neither the Committee for fiscal matters, neither the Island Council, none had been informed and of course, none had issued any statement on this matter. I wish to recall that the supreme institution regarding fiscal matters in the new framework is the Island Council. Here again, if the creation of such a tax on St-Martin is a competency of the Senate or a project conducted by the Senate, again, I wish to reiterate my most sincere apologies for false accusations against the person of the Senator. But if the fiscal competency is the affair of the Island Council, the Senator is actually sticking his nose into affairs that are not any of his concerns as Senator. The competency is that of the Island Council, and so the Senator's behavior once more attests to the fact that he is de facto the President of this island territory.
This whole « Mix up Mary » ruins the reputation of our institutions.
One could draft a long list of such intrusions on the Senator's behalf.
Not only does he shamelessly monopolize for himself the President's duties and operate within the President's sphere of operation (which shows that we have a Presidency devoid of any political weight), but worse yet, he dares to openly curse the present occupant of the presidential position.
I strongly feel that he had gone too far when he introduced the request for an amendment of the organic law. Indeed, chapter 2 of the proposed organic law n° 634 was exclusively concerned with the institutions of our Island Territory and the balance of powers and in so doing; this proposed modification was endangering the very essence of our Council. And yet, we the elected officials of this very same Council, only learnt about this proposed reform after the said text was presented before the Senate by the Senator – and this without even having the courtesy of informing us or worse yet, of considering to encourage a discussion on the proposition within the Island Council by its members.
A reform that concerns our institutions, initiated locally but on which the local institutions did have a word to say. The situation grew in importance after the open protest that came from my political group. It became a battle made up of "it's not me, it's him who started it". The Senator, in order to clear his name, Mister President GUMBS, stabbed you in the back and our institution, the Island Council of the island of Saint-Martin became stained and sullied.

In the press of the southern side and worse yet, amidst the St Martin's Day celebrations, the Senator told the Today and I quote as written in the paper of November 13 : « I am not in the Territorial Council and I cannot make demands for changes that persons accuse me of. I have asked one of my colleagues in the Senate to look into the organic law as it relates to building permit and amendments to collect gasoline tax. The other things that he has been accused of with regards to the functioning of the Collectivité are requests made by the office of the President. I have that request in black and white from the President's office. I am not here to be politicking with one or the other but I have heard that the President has presented changes in the council and cannot defend it. A good leader defends what he believes in ». end of quotation.
Should we understand in fact that seeing that the Senator could not attend the Island Council meeting of October 29 last – being called by the Prefet who wished to stated his position on the proposed amendment of the organic law by the Senator – he states that once his back is turned, or once his persuasive or dissuasive authority is not there, which is manifested by the fact that he sits at the head table of the island council, that the President is lost and the other elected officials of the ruling majority take too much liberty? This reminds me of a song from the late Bob Marley « when the cats away , the mice play ».
All this deeply jeopardizes the image of the institution of the President, and unfortunately, you do nothing to remediate. The manner in which you fulfill your duties, shows how limited these duties are in reality. A weak presidency, indecisive and silent makes your duty insignificant in the eyes of the population. The instability which your majority has demonstrated : in one year the removing of L C FLEMING, followed by the cancelation of an election for irregularity in the case of F GUMBS is by far too much.
Mister President, the presidency by which you rule is one under control. You allow another to walk over you, to walk ahead of you, you allow the senator to govern in your stead. They are your duties, Mister President, not his. As you very well know, nature hates void. If you don't operate in your capacity, someone else will do so. But the risk is also to see administrative staff take the lead when the political authority is dormant.

I solemnly and earnestly ask of you, Mister President :

- That the rule of good governance be respected on this territory of ours and amidst the assembly meetings. The Senator must not sit around the table. He is not an elected official member of this council. Have you ever considered going to sit at the Senate ?
- Exercise and assume the fullness of your duties and obligations. Put back in their place all those who have engulfed themselves in the vacuum that you had allowed to be.

I take the opportunity to officially ask for a copy of the official request which the Senator has said to have received from your cabinet listing the areas in which your government has wished to amend the organic law. He says it is him, it is you. In advance, I thank you for providing me with the copy of that document.

- Fix all internal quarrels among the various personalities and the various departments of the Government Building. It is unacceptable that such quarrels (between the President of the Tourism Bureau and the Vice President in charge of tourism) the partnership between the two sides of the island has turned out to be a game of hide and seek. The outcome of such disputes jeopardizes the image and the credibility and the future of our island territory.

If it is not for you, if it is for your presidency, please do it for ST-MARTIN, ; you owe it to the people, you owe it to our newly established institutions.
Mister President, Sorry to say it, BUT STOP BEING A NICE BOY AND PRESIDE.
Alain RICHARDSON.
President of the RRR group.

Cay Hill/Dutch Quarter:--- Relatives of Keshonarayan Kooblall (60) better known as Cyril are now praying that he would survive a brutal attack that left him with serious injuries to his brain.
According to Savita Kooblall daughter of the victim said, her father was struck on his head with a two by four plank on Monday night at a Union Farm residence. The young woman said her father went to the home of a relative to clear up some misconceptions when he was brutally attacked by a close relative she identified as Sundar Sahadeo. Kooblall said her father a Dutch national had brought in another relative from Guyana about a year ago for vacation but the man she said refused to leave the island. Savita said at some point the invited guest left her father's house and went to live at Sahadeo's residence in Union Farm and ever since then he has been spreading false information about her father.
She said Sahadeo was having a wake for someone that died and her father went to the home in an effort to clear up the feud and to give his condolences to relative of the dead when he was attacked by Sahadeo. The young woman further explained that her father fell unconscious when he was hit and those at the home where the incident occurred took ice water and poured it on her father. She said doctors at the St. Maarten Medical Center determined that her father was having internal bleeding in the brain and he needed to have surgery done abroad. The younger Kooblall said doctors at the St. Maarten Medical Center tried to send her father to Curacao and Aruba on Tuesday but there were no spaces at any of the hospitals in the Antilles. She said at that point the SMMC made contact with Colombia and an ambulance was sent from that island to pick up the patient on Wednesday.

An eyewitness of the incident on Monday told SMN News that Kooblall was standing at the gate when he was attacked. Asked if there was, any fight-taking place when Kooblall was struck the eyewitness said there was an argument inside the house and Sahadeo asked Kooblall to leave and he was already outside when he was attacked.
SMN News learnt that Sundar Sahadeo has surrendered to police on Wednesday and he is now in police custody.

Dawn Beach: --- The Political Steering group meeting held on Wednesday at the Westin Dawn Beach ended at 02:35 am on Thursday morning when St. Maarten, Curacao and the Netherlands signed an agreement on some of the issues discussed. Disappointing for the delegation from the Netherlands is when St. Maarten held its grounds on certain points and no agreement could be reached. St. Maarten also insisted that the Netherlands sticks to the previous agreement where they agreed to assist St. Maarten financially so that it can set up the necessary infrastructures to begin taking over the necessary tasks from Curacao.
Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin said that St. Maarten had to outline what assistance they need since that was not clear in the previous agreement, while the Netherlands has agreed to make sure the necessary assistance (funding) would be given to St. Maarten by February 2010.
Marlin said no agreement was reached on how St. Maarten and Curacao would be vetted after the two islands have taken up its country status. Marlin said while St. Maarten agreed that there would be vetting in the areas of finance, good governance, and justice no final decision were on agreed upon on the specific aspects of the vetting. Marlin said St. Maarten wants to make sure there is no opened agreement and this discussion would continue in February 2010.
Marlin said St. Maarten managed to secure its own attorney general that would be based on St. Maarten. He said agreements were reached on the matter of justice, the consensus Kingdom, and the organic laws.
Marlin said a progress report was presented on the joint central bank, he also assured that St. Maarten, and Curacao would meet the deadline on this issue.
Questioned on the transfer of tasks Marlin said the draft law would be ready by the end of December since it would be debated in parliament then. He said when that happen both Curacao and St. Maarten could begin asking for the transfer of these tasks. He said however that this is where St. Maarten is having a contention since if the funding for the tasks are transferred to St. Maarten it would not be enough for the building the necessary departments or Ministries for the tasks. He said the Dutch has agreed to make sure the additional funding for the preparation was again assured. Marlin said all the tasks can be transferred to the new countries but no definite decision have been taken on which of these tasks will be transferred and when would take place.

Great Bay -On Saturday, December 12, the only gay nightclub on the island "EROS" located in Marigot will be hosting a [RED] party mainly to target gay patrons that frequent the club. The party is being organized in collaboration with the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team.
According to Bevil Byum, one of the organizers, the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team has been doing a good job at targeting the general public by educating them about HIV/AIDS, but through this party we will be targeting a particular group.
Nanu, the owner of EROS is very supportive of the idea of hosting the [RED] party at her club. "She has been supportive year round, as she always provides educational materials and condoms at the club, and she is very happy to host this party," said Bevil.
Music will be provided by DJ Roland, who use to play at Orient Bay, and is well known on the French side for his modern upbeat house music. He will be playing a wide variety of music that night as it is expected that the party will attract a cross section of the community.
Bevil told us that the party is open to everyone, you don't have to be gay to attend. Persons are asked to wear something red. The entrance fee is $10 and there will be a show at 1AM.

Airport:---Police have arrested two men at the Princess Juliana International Airport who are wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of the two men. Mud said the first suspect Phillip Hanson a national of Jamaica was arrested two days ago (Wednesday) while he was en-route to Jamaica. Mud said Hanson is wanted by the FBI as he is suspected to be involved in drug trafficking.
St. Maarten Police also Jimmy Ramsahai at the Princess Juliana International Airport. Ramsahai is also wanted by the FBI and is suspected to be involved in Drug trafficking. Mud said that already he got indications that Hanson would be contesting his extradition while Ramsahai has already decided to cooperate and would not contest his extradition to the United States.

Philipsburg: --- Undocumented persons have up until today (December 15) to submit their documents for the Brooks Tower Permit. Even though the process began since November 3, scores of people were seen standing in line from the early hours of Monday morning to submit their documents.

Many of them braving the hot sun with umbrellas as they wait for the offices to open. SMN News learnt that some of the undocumented even slept outside of the Immigration and Naturalization building on Sunday night to make sure they get a number on Monday.

Speaking to SMN News on the condition of anonymity several of the undocumented immigrants said they went to submit their applications on several occasions and they simply could not get a number. One of the undocumented said security guards working at the location were asking huge sums of monies for a number and she was approached by a security guard who told her if she wanted a number she must pay $500. The woman said she has been going to submit her documents for the past week and on Monday morning; she reached the location at 2 am. The woman said she spent all day Saturday and did not get through. "The rain fell and wet us out here on Saturday then the sun came and dried us and we still did not get in. Now today Monday I am here since 2am and now its 5pm and they said no more numbers are available." Several of the undocumented has decided to place posters some of them standing at the side of the road with the posters saying more time is needed.
When Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba launched the BTA process she said "Lets do it Right" and that they would be seeking to serve at least 100 persons per day. It was disclosed that St. Maarten has over 40,000 illegal or undocumented immigrants living on the island. If our calculation is correct the Minister would need 400 days to attend to the 40,000 persons if they all showed up, after all she said "lets do it right". However, the Minister only gave herself six weeks to finalize this project.
On Monday evening, the Zero Tolerance and the VKS were on hand to bring order to the confusion at the Immigration and Naturalization Building. There were scores of people lining up to pay Naf.1, 600 ($900) for the processing of the category two permits. Several of them were forced to leave not being able to make their payments. Police were forced to use force to restrain some of the immigrants who were pushing their way in to obtain a number to no avail.

In an invited comment, Tiara Hasselhoef said the BTA project that was launched by the Minister for the past six weeks is not a right the undocumented could claim. Hasselhoef said the Minister wanted to give all undocumented persons living in the Netherlands Antilles and opportunity to regulate their status. Hasselhoef explained that the people had enough time to register because several days they did not have people to attend to. "These people waited until the last moment and we cannot continue to see them, this process has a date on which it has to end. Furthermore, persons who are trying to submit their documents for the first time can do so on December 15, as the day would be reserved for persons who did not get a chance to submit their documents. Hasselhoef also gave out some 125 numbers on Monday night to persons who would still get a chance on December 16; numbers were also given out to persons that were there for the second and third time. Asked about the alleged fleecing that is taking place by security guards Hasselhoef said they also heard about that security guards were asking for monies but no one was able to give them actual evidence on these allegations. "Unless we get evidence we cannot act." The justice department does not act on hearsay." Hasselhoef said.

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba made clear that she would not be extending the time for the BTA process.

Jacoba said everyone was given a fair opportunity since November 3 and those who did not make use of the opportunity just lost their chance at regulating their status. She said those persons who were lacking documents would be given one week after December 15 to submit those documents. After that period is over the Minister said no other documents would be accepted. She said the entire process for the BTA would end on February 28.

In the meantime, questions are being raised as to how government as well and the Justice Minister would act against employers who are caught with undocumented workers. Some said that for a long time employers were getting away with murder since they never face serious repercussions for having people working illegally. They said that over the year's immigration was focusing on the immigrant whose status was not in place and deport them even though they are working for legitimate companies.
These employers would deduct SVB and taxes from the undocumented workers and never turn it over to the relevant parties. "Companies caught doing so are committing fraud and the police and prosecutor needs to apply the law that is mandated against fraud and the abuse of the labor laws" said one concerned resident.
"Right now everyone thinks the only way to regulate the undocumented is through the BTA process. People have to know that employers can apply for their employee's documents through the regular system and get them regulated."
In the meantime, executive council has sent a letter to the Minister of Justice asking that she extend the time for the BTA process. SMN News has been reliably informed that the executive council asked the Minister to stick to her mathematics if she is going to the do the BTA right.
Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards told SMN News that just last week he spoke to the Minister regarding the extension of the BTA process and the Minister assured him she would not extend the time since that would grossly increase the cost of the Brooks Towers Accord process. Richards said the cost of the six week project is covered under the Safety Plan of the Netherlands Antilles. Richards said if the island government wants her to extend the process then the cost would have to be covered by the islands that want to continue the project.

The Democratic Party of Sint Maarten has recommended that 2 letters, which were copied to the Island Council, be sent to the Central Committee of the Island Council for further deliberations. One letter dated November 5, 2009 was sent by the workers of the SVB and the BZV on St. Maarten to the Executive Council regarding their position as employees of these institutions. The other letter dated October 21, 2009 came from the Windward Islands Health Care Union and regards the situation at the St. Maarten Medical Center.
The Executive Council in forwarding these letters to the Island Council, suggested that these be taken for notice only, however it is the position of the Democratic Party that those sending these letters and copying them to the Island Council expect of the Island Council that follow-up be given. Follow-up to these matters can be given in a central committee of the island council and if necessary parties involved can be invited to a meeting of the Central Committee to elaborate their positions and concerns further. Both issues, in the opinion of the Democratic Party deserve the attention of the island council members as representatives of the people of Sint Maarten.
The Democratic Party expects the Executive Council to promptly forward these matters to the Central Committee of the Island Council as both matters have been put forward to the island council some time ago.

(Sarah Wescott Williams)

Marigot: --- A ten-year-old boy identified as Elionis Porfirio Martinez has died from the dengue hemorrhagic fever on Friday last week at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital. The Prefecture of St. Martin said it is the first fatal case that has been registered on the French side.

Authorities are continuing with the necessary prevention against dengue fever, which includes fogging.

The Prefecture strongly advises the public to protect themselves frequently with anti-mosquito repellents, creams, particularly in the mornings and evenings, use mosquito nets, and preferably wear long sleeve shirts and long pants..

Authorities are also calling on all residents to make sure they throw away any stagnant water that collects in flower vases, old tyres, and other receptacles around the house as these are the breeding grounds for the dengue mosquito Aedes Egypti.

 

 

Cay Hill:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center and two of its gynecologists would soon have to represent themselves in the court of law as the relatives of Jennifer Sorhaindo has filed a claim against the hospital and two of the gynecologists with the Inspector of Health.
Reliable sources said the relatives of the deceased filed the claim with the inspector of health that is based on Curacao.

Jennifer Sorhaindo (37) died during the early hours of Wednesday November 19 at the St. Maarten Medical Center one week after she terminated her pregnancy at one of the doctor's clinic at the hospital.
The relatives of the now dead woman told SMN News that Jenifer had fell on St. Maarten Day and that she experienced a miscarriage. The mother of the deceased woman said her daughter had visited one of the doctor's on several occasion, as she was getting worst by the day. It is also stated that the victim went to the hospital on several occasions prior to her death and she was refused medical care for the lack of medical insurance.
Further research has shown that Jennifer Sorhaindo was working full time for the Oyster Bay Resort and somehow her employer did not fill out the mutation form. Head of the Social Insurance Bank Reginald Willemsberg had said in an earlier interview that Sorhaindo had visited them seeking medical insurance but she herself did not provide them with the necessary information for the SVB to properly assist her.
Efforts made to contact the medical director for the St. Maarten Medical Center Dr. George Scot proved futile up to press time.

Philipsburg: --- What was supposed to be an exciting moment for St. Maarten and its people and an opportunity for the media representatives to show case the island when the Oasis of the Seas made its inaugural call to St. Maarten many persons including the reporter from SMN News was denied access on board the ship. According to managing director of the St. Maarten Harbour Holding Companies Keith Franka said those persons whose names were not submitted to the cruise line before it reached St. Maarten would not get on board. While at the harbour, a photographer representing the Daily Herald was also denied access on board since the Daily Herald was also not on the so-called security list.
Amazingly, commissioner of Harbour Affairs Theo Heyliger was on hand and both the photographer and SMN News approached him and asked him to see if the media representatives who were on the location could get the opportunity to snap some pictures. The commissioner said he would try, however, he ended up sending us an email to say that he was sorry because the person responsible for protocol for the Oasis of the Seas said that due to the amount of dignitaries scheduled to visit the ship and the fact that the managing director did not notify them on time they would not allow anyone to go on board.
When asked how come the entire media core on St. Maarten was not given the opportunity to either go on the cruise or even get on board here. Heyliger said the Royal Caribbean Cruise invited four members of the press from each island to be part of that cruise. Of the four persons there must be one person representing radio, one representing television, and two writers. Representing St. Maarten were four people but two of them works at the Daily Herald, one happens to be the night editor of that paper and the other a reporter conveniently both persons from that newspaper have an extra-ordinary relationship with the commissioner in charge of the harbour affairs.
Further research also showed us that the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau was not invited to be part of the cruise neither the commissioner of tourism affairs. It is also understood that no invitation was sent to the Government Information Service for the cruise. GIS was allowed to go on board when the ship called on St. Maarten. Our sources said the representatives of the tourist office and the commissioner of tourism Frans Richardson was invited to go on board as the ship as it docked in St. Maarten on Wednesday. Questions are now being raised as why the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau was not allowed to organize the events surrounding the Oasis of the Seas and why this was handled by the Harbour Holding Companies. There are questions as to who were invited from government and how the monies that are generated from the St. Maarten Harbour Holding Companies are spent. It is good to note that this is a government owned company. SMN News learnt that since the tourism and harbour affairs falls under two different commissioners discrepancies such as these would always show its ugly head.

It was even mentioned that the reporters that are covering tourism at the two main newspapers on the Dutch side of the island was also not invited to be part of the cruise. SMN News did contact the Today Newspaper to see if they were approached by the St. Maarten Harbour Holding company to be part of the nine-day cruise and we were told that never happened. As for the dignitaries that were scheduled to visit the Oasis SMN News learnt many of the persons that were invited are supporters of Heyliger's new political party.
SMN News on several occasions wrote about the lack of integrity among reporters and the types of relationship one particular reporter has with politicians but to date the reporter neither her employer have done anything to rectify the misuse of the media.

 

GREAT BAY (GIS)—An informative session was held at the PMIA Hall on Wednesday evening with interested persons who wanted more information on the educational program offered by Johnson & Wales University, Fred Johnson Director of International Relations for Latin America and the Caribbean met with the Commissioner of Education William Marlin on Thursday morning to explain the current scholarship program that makes attending the accredited University basically free.

Johnson explained that there currently exist a special scholarship program at Johnson & Wales University where students—who have Dutch residency and who qualify for study financing with the Island Government of St. Maarten —could attend the University at a minimal cost after all year end expenses are added up.

Johnson & Wales is currently offering yearly tuition (including room and board) of $15,000. The study financing department, once qualified, will provide students with $15,000 of study financing—part of which is a loan, the other, a grant—thus essentially covering the total expenses for 4 years of a college degree.

Commissioner Marlin said that this offer of zero dollars is difficult to beat. "I encourage students to take advantage of this educational opportunity. For over 20 years, Johnson and Wales have had a relationship with St. Maarten. With this effort, we have reinvigorated the relationship. People who know or have heard about the program should tell their friends and family. Hopefully this program will stimulate enrollment and the mutual benefits could be realized," Marlin said.

"I want to thank you for coming to St. Maarten, and hope you have a pleasant stay, and that you will be back soon."

Johnson & Wales is an accredited university with 4 campuses on the Eastern part of North America. Students come from all parts of the United States and from 92 countries across the world.

Johnson said that students should visit www.jwu.edu and www.whatsnext4me.com.

La Savanne:--- A mother and her son is now dead, while three other persons are nursing severe injuries after an early morning accident in La Savane. According to preliminary information the woman and her children were driving along La Savane main road as she was taking her children to school when the driver of the car lost control.
The victims have been identified as Gemma Renault (40) and her nine-year-old son Nicolas Donaldson (9) both nationals of Dominica.

According to information, reaching SMN News one of the victim's a younger boy was flown out to Martinique for further medical treatment. The driver of the white car has been identified as David Faveur (22) of Haitian decent and resident of French Quarter. Rochelle Yankie (18). It is understood that the driver of the car has regained consciousness and remains in stable condition. This media house has learnt that the driver already began speaking as well as the other passenger that was also inside the vehicle.

Sources say the driver is the boyfriend of one of the victim's daughter while the others are siblings of the now dead woman.
On the scene, it was clear that the vehicle was driving at high speed on the slippery road leading downhill from the Cadiso Gas Station.
The vehicle it is understood flew off the road and hit into a container that is on an empty plot of land. Eyewitnesses say the two persons were in the car for a long time before help reached. On the scene paramedics from the SMUR as well as the fire department was seen working on both mother and son, as they were unconscious. The doctor first pronounced little Nicolas dead as he was clearly bleeding internally and through his nose and ears. Minutes later the doctor also pronounced the mother dead. Both victims were removed from the scene by the undertakers.
The victims are said to be from the island of Dominica and are residing in French Quarter. According to several eyewitness the woman just this week moved out from 45 Airport Road Grand Case to 9 Le Palmerie Quartier d' Orleans.

The father of the young Nicolas also had to be transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital after he collapsed. The man known as Don operates the GTL Car Rental in Grand Case.
In a press release, the gendarmes have confirmed the death of the 40-year-old woman and her nine-year old son. The releases states that the accident occurred somewhere after 08.00 am.
So far, ten persons have lost their lives to road accidents. The gendarmes are calling on road users to exercise caution when using public roads, as there have been an increased number of severe road accidents.

Philipsburg:---- Workers of Nagico Insurances and supported by some workers from the Windward Islands Bank marched through the streets of Philipsburg on Tuesday afternoon showing their support for the fight against HIV/ Aids.

The workers all dressed in their red tee shirt distributed condoms, pens and information cards relating to safe sex and the prevention of HIV/Aids. The march concluded in front of the Government Administration Building where selected speakers were supposed to address the gathering. Unfortunately, most of the speakers including commissioner of health Hyacinth Richardson and head of the management team Suzette Moses Burton cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

 

La Savanne: --- The gendarmes have arrested several persons some of whom were already sent to Guadeloupe for allegedly raping a minor girl. SMN News has been reliably informed that the incident took place about two weeks ago in the Grand Case area. It is said at least 16 young men some of whom were already arrested and charged with rape was sent to Guadeloupe. SMN News also understands that the victim managed to walk out from where the attack allegedly took place.

The source said the victim is from the Dutch side of the island, but resides in Concordia. Efforts made to gather more information on this case up to press time proved futile. So far the gendarmes have not released any information on the case while the investigation is being conducted by the Brigade de Researches. Vice Prosecutor Jacques Louvier could not be reached for comment.