Articles

Dear Mr. MARLIN,

On, Wednesday, June 29, 2011, I received an email from you.
For this, I certainly thank and recommend you.
However, allow me to make our position also very clear as it relates to the identity of the St. Martiner.
It should be very clearly understood, that the St. Martin identity is not a (Dutch and/or French) nationality since there is no sovereign country St. Martin/St. Maarten.
For us, the St. Martin identity is about being part of the St. Martin heritage- or roots of you will.
It is not about Black or White either, nor about being a so-called 'born-here'.
Our grassroots organization has now long past the phase of defining the St. Martin identity.
Therefore, we are not willing to 'turn back the 'hands of the clock' simply because others were 'asleep at the wheel' for a long time, when it really mattered - when the so-called constitution was written.
In other words, we feel no need to debate that issue any longer, since for us, it is a passed station.
Not only have we long since moved on with promoting the cause of St. Martin people - a people whose very existence many officials denied.
On your coveted '10-10-10' , we officially launched our own St. Martin ID-card, which identifies its holders as (native, indigenous) St. Martiners based on their St. Martin heritage.
By doing such, we have now made it possible to create a constituency of the native St. Martiners, or of people of St. Martin heritage.
This is the group which you and most other politicians thusfar have refused to recognize, identity, preserve and protect.
The group that the political establishment on both sides of the island have cowardly betrayed, for political reasons.
What we are prepared to discuss with you or any other politicians, is how now to place this group in the constitution and how to make sure that under no conceivable circumstances they ever again will become victims of atrocities such as slavery and of (silent) genocide by substitution.
In other words Mr. MARLIN, how positive discrimination, affirmative action or whatever other preferential programs can be legislated to this end.
For your information, a very good example and legal precedence for positive discrimination is the so-called (over-abused) '10 year's Tax Holidays' for foreign investors.
In this regard, we recommend you contact the TODAY-newspaper of your very good friend, Mr. Richard GIBSON and read the editorial of Monday, April 14, 2003, 'A MARSHALL PLAN IS NEEDED' - line by line.
If still stand by your intention to invite us for a meeting, after having read and understood this editorial, we would certainly accept your invitation.
If not, no problem, you do what you have to do and rest assured we will certainly do what we have to do.

With respect,

drs. Leopold JAMES
President Grassroots St. Martin nation building movement and
Proud native, indigenous St. Martiner, without the least of apologies.
That one....

...

Dear Mr. William MARLIN,
Member of Parliament and leader of the NA.

This is a follow up to our response of Monday, Jul 5, 2011 to your email of Wednesday, June 29, 2011 in which you promise to meet with us.
In preparation for such a possible meeting, we respectfully propose you consider the following steps.
First of all, our grassroots movement is in no rush whatsoever to meet with you, or with whomsoever on the cause of the native, indigenous St. Martiners.
As a matter of fact, if all parties involved are not yet in the right state of mind, such a meeting might be just a matter of wishful thinking, because we are not prepared to meet for meeting-sake with you or with any other elected officials.
The state of mind we hereby refer to, is the genuine willingness and commitment to eventually amend-, or rewrite the constitution to recognize the existence of native, indigenous St. Martin people, the sacrifices made by our ancestors and to include guarantees for our existence as native, indigenous St. Martiners and rights to be 'first' at home.
As we stated before, if you Mr. MARLIN and/or any other elected officials anywhere on this island, feel some 'sacred' and/or higher calling to bend backwards to help- and reward illegal residents and their children - by all means, follow your heart.
As a mater of fact, in that case we recommend you feel free to even bring immigrants from Timbukto, Manchuria, or from other galaxies to the 'Friendly island' and to take on their plight.
That is no problem to us, although making sense, is quite another tale of course.
Where we draw the line in the sand, is that after you have 'doubled up while bending backwards', you fail or refuse to take care of our legitimate concerns about being wiped off the map in the process of helping the 'universe'.
Believe me, Mr. MARLIN, that will be the day.
So, in ending let us not rush to have any meeting just for having a meeting.
Rather, we recommend you really ask yourself if you are still willing to meet with us considering the steps/objectives, outlined above.
If not, no problem- be happy.
Certainly then the chips will fall, where they may.
Have a great day, honorable MP, Mr. Marlin,

Leopold JAMES

Dear editor,

StMaarten is only 37 square miles and shared with 150 nationalities. The reality is that the native StMaarten people deserve not only recognition as a people but should get the Nobel prize for the tolerance of sharing 37 square miles with people of many different nationalities and Heritage in their own tiny promise land in this world. You will think that all people living here and born here and naturalize here will say thank you native StMaarteners for your wonderful contribution of human rights at the expense of terminating yourself. And it is unbelievable and ungrateful how some people think that standing and defending native people rights to be recognized is wrong. We native StMaarten people were and still have always been loving people. But what I love about our StMaarten heritage is we are much stronger than we think. Why we are so special is because what we allow to happen cannot and will not happen in any other country. You will have had fight and ethnic cleansing. Our ancestors always try to take the high road. But what our ancestors do not know is that sometimes you have no choice to confront and fight for what is an undeniable right of our native people. This is what I never understand, why will people come from far to fight us for our 37 square miles of promise land. Why not go fix their problem where they came from. The problem is not having guest, the problem is when the guest thinks or believe he is the host or owner. And that is the main problem in StMaarten. What is laughable is when some people say they love StMaarten but they go against the native StMaarten people and defend illegal immigrants. That is the pinnacle of hypocrisy. I also feel for the legal immigrants who come here legally and follow the laws and still get cast away for the illegal immigrants. They too are also victim of neglect and that is why many of them support our cause. Mr. Editor we have many sheep in wolf clothing here in StMaarten. We have people say they are real StMaarteners but these people fights the most against the native StMaarten people of being recognize, so you know where they heart lies. These are the people that does not like people like Leopold James, Jeffrey Richardson and Miguel Arrindell. These people are envious; it is because we have the courage to do what most people are afraid to do. In time the haters will be exposed and they will destroy their self for betraying their very own. The lord say there is no greater love than when men give their life for others. That's what you call love of country and being a good patriot. You see men like us are men of honor. You do not have to like us, we can care less, but what you cannot refute is what we are doing without any pay, but we do it for our love country which should be respected as honor. All those who hate us for protecting our 37 square miles of promise land and native people, in time they will understand what love of country is. We are genuine because no government or any group pay us to do what we are doing and we are not looking for any medal or money. But when the process is finish as you can see the noose is tightening all we expect is a big thank you for doing what our government did not do for StMaarten. The petty attacks on us will be forgiven. Our haters we will forget and then we will continue to walk the high road of honor. As a patriot of this 37 square mile of promise land it is always my pleasure to serve you. Most people are afraid to defend you for victimization, but greatness of the Lord can defeat anything that is negative. Country StMaarten your wonderful and your native people will soon be recognized, keep hope alive. Victory is around the corner.

The patriot Miguel Arrindell

Dear Mr. Editor,

Let me be honest here, it was said trash (Roy Marlin) was on a local TV talk show explaining why he wants to seek Dutch funding for illegal immigrants children.

When I last check the people of StMaarten voted for a government to represent them, instead trash (Roy marlin) is in pursue of foreign interest. What Mr. Trash should be doing is to seek Dutch funding and ways and means to upgrade our police force and to seek funding for more schools not forgetting our hospital in StMaarten. People like Roy marlin are rejects from Aruba that come here where they can be some one important in life. Instead of praising the StMaarten people and promoting the recognition of native StMaarten people in our constitution. Mr. Trash first and for most priority is to seek funding for immigrants children. Mr. Trash let me teach you some good old StMaarten Values.

You cannot milk a cow if you do not feed it, and charity begins at home. It is people like you who make StMaarten look like fools. Real Arubans unlike you who is wanabee told me if you were in Aruba you will never try that, because you will know the end results. I keep asking my self why our Prime Minister keep trash like you in her party. Madam Prime minister Sarah Westcott don't you think you should stop associating yourself with people that have no love for us. That man is a wicked and malicious man with only bad intentions for native StMaarten people. Ooh I forget another Marlin on the loose. Danger, bird of same feather flocks together. Mr. Trash is traveling on StMaarten taxpayer's expense to represent illegal immigrant's children, but that nasty trash will not fight to recognize the native StMaarten people in our constitution. Madame Prime Minister don't you feel guilty for having some one like that belittling your own native people. I give you and Mr. Heliger credit for blocking the motion to fund illegal immigrants, but I urge you to get trash out of your party, he only can do you harm. Further associating your self with Mr. Trash will be to your down fall. As a lady of StMaarten Heritage you must show respect to your ancestors. The conclusion madam prime minister will be you will have to show us if you are on the native StMaarten people side or is it the wanabee trash from Aruba. I hope you choose wisely and get trash out of StMaarten government.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

Dear Editor,

For the past years many people heard of Miguel Arrindell and ask what is his purpose and who is he. Well my native StMaarten people of heritage and fellow Dutch citizens I am, still is and will always be a patriot of StMaarten. Let me define myself to you now. A patriot loves his country but loves its people more. A patriot believes in his country and will stand up against injustice against its people. A patriot thinks not of himself but of his people and is willing to put himself on the line for those ideals and to better society. Think of our forefathers, think of those who history has recorded to have put their lives on the line so that we might have this country today. A patriot is someone that believes strongly in his principles, culture, and most of all country. A patriot is a good citizen and one who cares for his country. One who says the pledge with pride and loves their country. A patriot is a person will defend country for the right cause protect its native people and stand against any person or government without fair. A pledge is a solemn promise or undertaking, in my case to protect and defend or fight for native StMaarten people interest and all other people that feel and love StMaarten whether they may born here or naturalize Dutch citizens that love StMaarten and to see that justice is done and rewarded to them. That is why I fear no man but Jesus Christ and no politician can break me. I attack problem from a spiritual point of view and will fight relentless with one goal in mind that is victory and failure is never an option. If you for any reason be it a political party or politician attacks me rest assure it will be an everlasting fight until I die. For me it will never be over until justice is done. I am for the long run, I am a man of my word and I believe in duty, honor and country. So now you know whenever you read or hear of me, know the signature of Miguel Arrindell is a patriot. And yes I do have political aspirations, but that will be up to you the people.

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

Mr. Editor,
Let me as a native StMaartener let the people know who is not a StMaartener. There is a lot of wanabees who will like to say they are from StMaarten because they were born here. Please listen carefully. If I as a StMaarten person born in the Netherlands that attain Dutch Nationality does it mean I am from Dutch heritage (What we call Macamba). Does it mean I am now a Caucasian or Dutch European, certainly not, it means they grant me a paper stating I have their nationality, but that does not mean I am one of them. If we as people from StMaarten heritage born in India or China will we be consider Indians or Chinese's, the answer is absolutely not. So why should we as a group of people of a small heritage endanger our self. Some people believe because they are black and born from illegal immigrants means they are from StMaarten, the answer is absolutely not. If a donkey born in a house stable does that mean he is a horse? Absolutely not. You may have our identity in color but you're not of our Heritage. Africa has lots of black people but many tribes which mean many people from different heritage. So color does not mean anything. If we or our government will be so foolish to let people that born here illegally and because they are black and consider them StMaarteners we will be the biggest fools, that means Haiti and Jamaica and Dominica people of heritage will be the most StMaarten people, that is exactly what we do not want and need protection from. Imagine those from the Dominican Republic and Guyana whose children are born here, that again mean that the word StMaartener means that once you are born here you are a StMaartener. Nothing could be more further from the truth. The definition must show who is of StMaarten Heritage and is a native StMaartener. A person born in StMaarten means any person that can be of any other racial or ethnic back ground that has Dutch nationality but not of StMaarten Heritage. Heritage will depend if your mother or father and one of their roots was from StMaarten Heritage. Born here only means nationality it does not mean heritage. In time after two or three generations you will become of StMaarten heritage. That is why only the native StMaarten people have the moral authority to determine the definition of who is of StMaarten heritage and is a StMaartener. The conclusion is if you feel you are a StMaartener is fine, but then you must prove it by agreeing that the native StMaarten people who was here from the beginning must be recognize as the real StMaarten people. If you have a problem with that you have just proven you definitely are not a StMaartener. I am certain the nation building foundation of StMaarten has that authority to determine people of StMaarten heritage they have the proof and the study to back it up. I agree with Leopold James on the issue of who is a stMaartener, the question should be who is not of StMaarten heritage will proof who is the real StMaartener that must be recognize. So the question of who is StMaartener? The answer is who is of StMaarten heritage.

Yours truly,

Miguel Arrindell

I've been following the GEBE saga reported in the papers rather closely of late. The recent motion that the National Alliance brought forward to reduce the GEBE fuel clause by 50 percent for the next six months was a good start. The fact that it was not supported by the UP/DP coalition was indeed a missed opportunity not only for the people of St.Maarten, but for GEBE as well.

Six months of collecting 50 percent of the current fuel clause would be a small price for GEBE to pay in order to make up for what it has been doing to the people of St.Maarten for years. That is, "overcharging its consumers to compensate for very poor management", not my words, but those of GEBE's own Supervisory Board.

Looking back in time, there was a big scandal involving a former GEBE engineer who was tampering with the clients' meters to lower their bills for a fee. The customers involved paid restitution to GEBE for, in local parlance, "theifing" electricity in order to avoid prosecution. Now that it has come to light that GEBE has been "theifing" from its customers by inflating the actual cost of the fuel it uses via the fuel clause mechanism, shouldn't they be required to make restitution to their victims, the people of St.Maarten?

All over the world restitution is a common requirement meted out in court decisions both civil and criminal. One legal definition describes restitution as "the equitable remedy of restoring to an aggrieved party that, which was obtained in unjust enrichment". Now I'm not a lawyer, but the manner in which GEBE has been allowed to profit from its fuel clause, certainly sounds like unjust enrichment to me. Whether the courts would agree, that remains to be seen.

Having already lost in court once with the case brought by The Westin Hotel over its application of the fuel clause, I would think GEBE would be seeking to avoid any future litigation. So yes, the opportunity to adopt the NA motion and thus temporarily placate its entire customer base was certainly a missed one indeed.

Andy Croxall

Increasingly, the tone and rhetoric of many letters to the editor is certainly heating up as never before, as it relates to St. Martiners demanding their cries also to be heard by the authorities and their concerns to be addressed ahead of those of illegal immigrants and others.
Thus-far, we must highly recommend the local media for walking a very thin line, by allowing these very emotional St. Martin voices of frustration to be expressed, either in the news-papers, radio-stations or websites.
It definitely is balancing act, to allow for pent up frustrations of the St. Martin people to be vented, while carefully guarding ethics in journalism and guarding against senseless incitement of hatred.
We certainly applaud the media for realizing the importance of this act, in which none of the interests and concerns should be denied to any group of people and certainly no longer to the native St. Martiners who are finding themselves betrayed by their elected officials.
In particular, I wish to commend and thank my good friend, Mrs. Bibi SHAW-HODGE for her role as a professional in this needed process of freedom of expression.
I know it is very difficult for my friend Bibi, who I enormously appreciate, admire and am indebted to, as a born Guyanese, to allow for her very important website to be used, whereby in many cases letters to the editor and comments might be perceived as very confrontational towards immigrants in particular.
We certainly understand that as a born Guyanese this must be very hurtful at times for Bibi, because she has the full right to be proud of her Guyanese heritage, which we understand and agree with, because certainly we are proud of our St. Martin heritage.
Therefore, with much respect for the other members of the media, we sincerely wish to thank Bibi for not allowing for her own understandable personal sentiments and justified love for her own country Guyana to get in the way of her professional ethics as a journalist and reporter.
In general, we see that as a sign that our local media is maturing tremendously and we look forward for this development to continue, because denying legitimate concerns to be expressed, forces them 'under-ground' with possibly devastating consequences for society as a whole.
Thank you members of the media once more,

drs. Leopold JAMES
President St. Martin Grassroots Nation Building Movement.

Recent letters to the editor and other statements made in the media by in particular myself Leopold JAMES, Migueal ARRINDELL and Jeffrey RICHARDSON certainly are getting their fair share of attention of the public.
More than that.
Clearly, the outspoken positions taken by these people seem to go right straight to the 'soul' of the residents on the island.
In essence, those positions are based on one and the same very clear and simple chorus; 'St. Martiners must come first at home'
Consequently, the responses to this new St. Martin 'gospel', certainly evokes extremely strong and extremely supportive reactions from a growing number of people.
Even politicians are keenly paying attention to the impact of this paradigm shift.
In particular, member of Parliament, Mr.Wiliam MARLIN, reacted pre-emptively by inviting Leopold JAMES for a meeting at some ime in the near future.
It is obvious that JAMES, ARRINDELL and RICHARDSON have stepped up to the plate to deal with critically important issues, deliberately and consistently left unattended for generations by our elected officials.
It is clear that this 'Divide and conquer' principle of dividing and setting up natives against immigrants, allowed for the political system, as we know it to maintain itself for so long.
However, there are also an insignificant number of malicious persons, hiding under the 'cloak of darkness' attacking the messengers for in fact awakening the consciousness of not only the native St. Martin people, but of others as well.
Although, there are strong indications that these operators are acting on behalf of certain politicians, who are terrified that their game of 'Tom foolery' might soon be over.
Nevertheless, instead of criticizing these accomplices, we wish to defend their democratic right of free speech, including their right to engage in launching personal attacks on my person - by all means.
That type of behavior is great news and a powerful mental symptom that the patients at least are spewing their guts.
Therefore, these negative responses constitute a very effective method of 'mental detoxification' and creates a 'purified state of mind'.
Such a condition will now allow for these elements to clear their minds in order to accept and deal with the 'New St. Martin Order- or Thinking'.
Praise the Lord.
In simple terms, it means that soon, their 'tantrum' will make place for accepting the fact that St. Martiners no longer are willing to accept being disrespected, non recognized, non represented, non preserved and non protected.
In addition, that they are now demanding, that finally after taking care of the needs for every illegal Thom, Dick and Harry, on the island, the time has come to place St. Martiners at the top of the list.
No, no.
Not with nice rhetoric, but anchored in the constitution.
Nothing less will 'cut it'.
So, once more I say to my friends Miguel, Jeffrey do ot take on the critics.
To the contrary, encourage them if that is what they want and need to let their tantrum play out- it is part of maturing and coming at one's senses.
Let me end by wishing everyone a very fine weekend; especially my crtitics.
Love Ya :-*

 

Of course it is me again, who else ?
Leopold JAMES
The proud, non apologetic James.

Most countries have a document called the CONSTITUTION.
The CONSTITUTION of every country is not just another piece of legislation.
The CONSTITUTION is the most important document of any country.
The CONSTITUTION is like a of secular kind of 'Bible' for any Christian country.
The CONSTITUTION is about the people of that particular land; it identifies who are the people of that land; in other words, it clearly states who is the host-population .
The CONSTITUTION sets the ground-rules for how the land is to be governed and is therefore the basis for all the laws of the country.
Those people not mentioned in the CONSTITUTION, either are in fact non- existent, or at best, irrelevant- and insignificant, as far as that particular country is concerned.
The so-called CONSTITUTION for 'Country St. Maarten', nowhere mentions the word 'St. Martiner' or 'St. Maartener'.
Rather, it focuses on-, and describes the rights/obligations of Dutch citizens residing on (Dutch-) St. Maarten.
For the record.
There are many St. Martiners/St. Maarteners living on the island and abroad (like on the 'French'- side) who are not Dutch citizens.
These people are our very own blood relatives who happen to live in another part of the land, which has always been shared by us as a people, giving real content to the Treat of Concordia.
In addition, our collective ancestors' blood-, sweat- and tears contributed to building the foundation of the post-slavery island.
This was the price they paid to allow for us, their descendants to inherit the land and to thus become 'St. Martiners of heritage' or native, indigenous St. Martiners.
As long as our constitution denies our existence as a St. Martin People, that means that as a people, we officially we do not exist, nor ever existed as a people, let alone that we have any rights as such in 'Country St. Maarten'.
That is a betrayal of the highest possible order.
Therefore, as it now stands this so-called constitution de-facto has become the 'Official document of the betrayal of the St. Martin people' and therefore clearly emboldens others to take St. Martiners for granted, to disregard and disrespect us, our children and all future generations of yet unborn St. Martiners.
Our movement, intends to have this so-called constitution for 'Country St. Maarten' amended to include the recognition of the native, indigenous St. Martin people, their rights to be protected, preserved and to have first rights to any opportunities in their land (Affirmative action, positive discrimination) without diminishing the justified human rights of others in the process.
Fellow St. Martiners, if you care to preserve your St. Martin heritage and to provide a future for your children, we invite you to support this effort, which as time goes by, will be stepped up to yet another level.
Confront on a daily basis, all your elected officials on both sides of the island and do not take 'we can not', for an answer, because they prove daily to be willing to 'bend backwards' and reward others who broke our laws to be here in the first place.
Once we have formulated, with your help a draft amendment to the Constitution to be presented to Parliament/COM, we will be willing to support the calls for an island-wide demonstration under the 'banner' saying;
'Time to amend the constitution - St. Martiners to come first'

Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia

It is very clear that in countries that are not independent, there exists a very interesting dualism in terms of the 'status' of their citizens.
One aspect of their status is their nationality.
In those countries the term nationality is very clear.
It is a status, controlled/authorized/supervised by the 'Mother-country'.
In those, still dependent countries, the notion of nationality clearly has a colonial connotation ('Slave/Master')
Oftentimes, those countries also have another type of status; one not controlled/authorized by the mother-country or colonial power; it is one of an indigenous cultural-heritage or identity.
One, that much more is of the country itself and which is an expression of a much deeper identification with the culture, history of the people of that country themselves; it represents the very close ties over many generations with a particular country.
This much deeper expression of the 'self' of a people, in fact has different names in different countries, but in fact mean more or less the same and have more or less the same objectives.
An example is for instance the Belongers Status (For instance introduced in the Constitution of Anguilla in 1990, when it was amended.
This particular status is also found in the constitutions of other British Overseas Territories and in countries like Gibraltar, Turks & Caicos Islands, Hong Kong .
Go to WIKIPEDIA and read for yourselves.
On St. Maarten/St. Martin the grassroots nation building movement, under the presidency of Leopold JAMES has given term native , indigenous St. Martiner a greater significance than ever before, which has some people 'panting for breath', but others, elated that finally they are recognized as a people in their own country.
Miguel 'Patriot' ARRINDELL uses the term St. Martiners of heritage to in fact indicate the same people.
While, there are those 'smart lawyers' on the 'Friendly island', who for their own agenda, are trying to make belief that it is 'unconstitutional'- bla, bla, bla, to identify these people and have them protected by means of the constitution, research will show that elsewhere in countries not independent, these people are indeed protected by constitutional-law.
So, while there those who try to derail our efforts to empower our people, we will just intensify our efforts to the next level.
Much and much more to come.
Again, our aim is to have the native, indigenous St. Martiners included in an amended constitution, just like Anguilla did in 1990 and to have them protected, preserved and given all the (legal) 'tools' necessary to survive any 'onslaught' on their existence as people of heritage in their own land.

Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia

Dear editor,

As a man of my word that continues to educate people base on facts this is from Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia explain about belonger status. Belonger status is a legal classification normally associated with British overseas territories. It refers to people who have close ties to a specific territory, normally by birth and/or ancestry. The requirements for belonger status, and the rights that it confers, vary from territory to territory. The rights associated with belonger status normally include the right to vote, to hold elected office, to own real property without the necessity for a license, to reside in that territory without immigration restrictions, and to freely accept employment without the requirement of a work permit. In general, to be born with belonger status a person must be born in a territory to a parent who holds belonger status.

I here present proof of our sister Caribbean island of Anguilla, where they define who is an Anguillan. http://www.gov.ai/documents/Anguilla%20Constitution%20Draft%202009.pdf. Chapter 11 part 105. It goes as follow defining who is an Anguillan.

Belonger Status

105. (1) There shall be an Anguillan Belonger Status Commission (hereinafter

referred to as the Commission) the composition and function of which shall,

subject to the provision of this section be prescribed by law.

(2) For the purposes of this Constitution a person shall be regarded as

belonging to Anguilla if that person-

(a) is born in Anguilla and at the time of the birth his father or mother is or

was a British Overseas Territories Citizen (or a British Dependent

Territories Citizen, Citizen of The United Kingdom and Colonies or

British Subject) by virtue of birth, registration or naturalization in Anguilla

or by virtue of descent from a father or mother who was born in Anguilla;

(b) is born outside Anguilla of a father or mother who is a British Overseas

Territories Citizen (or a British Dependent Territories Citizen, Citizen of

The United Kingdom and Colonies or British Subject) by virtue of birth in

Anguilla or descent or who belongs to Anguilla by virtue of birth in

Anguilla or descent;

(c) is a person born in or outside of Anguilla with a grandparent

who was born in Anguilla and who belongs to Anguilla by birth or

descent or who, if deceased, would if alive, so belong to Anguilla; or

(d) is a child adopted in Anguilla by a person who belongs to Anguilla by

birth or descent;

20[ (e) is domicile in Anguilla, has been ordinarily resident in Anguilla for.

(e) is domicile in Anguilla, has been ordinarily resident in Anguilla for not

less than 15 years, and has been granted belonger status by the

Commission.; Such a person must apply to the Anguilla Belonger Status

Commission for a grant of Anguillian belonger status, which grant may

be withdrawn at any time on conviction of an indictable offence.

(f) is a person who is married to a belonger for a period of not less than 7 years. Such person must apply to the Anguilla Belonger Status

Commission for a grant of belonger status, which grant may be

withdrawn at any time on conviction of an indictable offence,]

(g) Was born outside Anguilla and has satisfied the Commission that his

father or mother was born in Anguilla and is regarded (or if deceased,

would if alive be regarded) as belonging to Anguilla by virtue of this

subsection;

20 To be discussed

(h) a person with a great-grandparent who was born in Anguilla and who is

regarded as being a belonger by virtue of this or any previous

Constitution, provided that person has been living (i.e. physically present)

in Anguilla for a continuous period of 5 years and his absences from

Anguilla do not exceed a total of ninety (90) days in each of those years,

save for good and sufficient cause. Such a person must apply to the

belonger Status Commission for a grant of belonger status, which grant

may be withdrawn at any time on conviction of an indictable offence.

(3) An application for belonger status under subsection (2) (e) (f) (g) and (h)

of this section may be refused in any case in which the Commission is

satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for refusing the application in the

interests of defence, public safety, public morality or public order.

(4) There shall be such provision as may be made by the Legislature for

depriving of his citizenship any person who is a citizen by virtue of registration

if such registration as a citizen was obtained by false representation or fraud

or willful concealment of material facts or if he is convicted in Anguilla of an

indictable offence.

Provided that any law enacted for the purposes of paragraph 4 of this

subsection shall include provisions under which the person concerned

shall have a right of appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction or other

independent authority and shall be permitted to have legal representation

of his own choice.

This is a government that loves and protects its people, and this country is a dependency of the United Kingdom. We must conclude that the United Kingdom is not practicing discrimination. How much more importance that the native StMaarten people who is on the verge of extinction be recognize in StMaarten constitution. People let your conscience be your guide.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

Dear Editor,

Please allow me some space to express my opinion on the seperation of "cure" and "care".The two main pillars of a society are "Education" and "Healthcare". It is proven that healthy educated people are more likely to be able to take care of themselves, are more productive for the society and are less likely to be involved in crime. The quality of life in countries with a high quality affordable well functioning healthcare system is extremely high compared to countries where there is a low level of education and a low level of health care. On Sint Maarten we are so focused on immigration, crime and finance that we seem to forget about one of the most important pillars of our society.
Civil servants and others are working hard behind the scenes to introduce a compulsory health insurance in Sint Maarten. We already saw the establishing of the Uitvoeringsorgaan Sociale en Ziektekosten Verzekering (Social and Health Insurance-SZV). The main points of focus for restructuring our healthcare system should be:

• Better streamlining of primary, secondary and tertiary care
• Financing of the healthcare system
• Prevention
• Education
• Compulsory health insurance
• Restructuring the tariff structure
• Restructuring administrative procedures
• Establishing who will administer the health insurance
• Establishing a basic coverage package
• Determine needs for care and facilitate for this need

Some of the points above have already been taken care off and some points are being worked on. We want to discuss the point "determine needs for care and facilitate for this need".
You can divide healthcare in "cure" and "care". Cure is when someone is sick and needs treatment to get better and care is for those who will not get better. You can think about persons suffering from chronicle illness, mentally challenged persons, handicapped persons. Of course, our elderly need a lot of "care". The "care" part falls under the AVBZ.
The AVBZ (Algemene Voorzieningen Bijzondere Ziektekosten) has been a federal decree since 1996 in the former Netherlands Antilles (PB 211-amendments have been made a couple of times since then). The Central Bank of the former Netherlands Antilles monitored the funds, while BZV dealt/is dealing with the operational part of the fund.
With the setting up of a compulsory health insurance comes the intention to include "cure" and "care" in the same basic coverage package. I disagree with this.
Without going into detail, the current basic coverage package is based on a Dutch model. The Dutch always made sure that they separated the "cure" and the "care". Even though the insurance is compulsory, it would not compulsory for persons who are earning above a still to determine amount (like the former SVB). How and to whom are the private insured patients paying their contribution into the "care"? The financing of the compulsory health insurance would be that there are is a higher collecting of premiums compared to costs in the beginning than in fifteen years due to the faster rise of healthcare costs than the rise of wages. So, you will create a reserve to compensate for the years that the costs are higher than the collected premiums. This by itself makes perfect sense.
However, Korsao has got about 23 AVBZ institutions or institutions receiving money from the AVBZ fund and Sint Maarten 3 (Sr. Basilia Center, White & Yellow Cross and Mental Health Foundation). Over the years, there have been a great under consumption of the AVBZ fund by the Sint Maarten population. A valid reason for people not to make use of these funds is that they have to go to Korsao. An island where they might not have family and don't speak the language. So, people rather stay without extra help or revalidation on Sint Maarten and rely on the help of family and friends.
Looking at the above stated, you might conclude that Sint Maarten is in need for an expanding of our AVBZ institutions or even create more AVBZ institutions. This will cost money. Should this money be used out of the same fund from which the "cure" costs are being paid? No!! Two separate funds are needed and if one fund needs more money to cover certain costs than it is governments duty to look for additional monies elsewhere.

Have a great day,

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson

My dear friend Lloyd,

Maybe you yourself did not realize it.
But, trust me, many others including yours truly did hear it ourselves.
You finally and publicly agreeing with a 'message' we have been preaching for ages - St. Martiners must come first.
We are not in any illusion that you will admitted it, of course, but hey man, we still 'cool', you know.
But, the truth remains that in fact yesterday, during your radio talk-show, although very timidly and hesitantly, you made it clear that you finally 'got the message'.
Meaning, which is agreeing with what I have been 'preaching' over and under and for which I have been criticized, ridiculed and demonized for by certain persons and talk-show hosts.
Nevertheless, brother man, I must commend you for at least stating (I am paraphrasing here) that it is necessary that provisions are made to ensure that St. Martiners come first at home.
This remark was made in response to the verdict of the Judge in First Instance that the so-called American-Dutch Friendship Treaty is applicable on 'The Friendly Island' and that consequently Americans defacto have the same rights as Dutch nationals on St. Maarten.
This verdict adds to the growing consciousness and concern of native, indigenous St. Martiners, that 'everybody' on the island, seem to enjoy certain rights, with the exception of St. Martiners.
In other words, our prediction, that St. Martiners are facing a 'silent genocide' is rapidly becoming a 'mainstream' St. Martin concern.
However, since I might not be quoting you correctly, I suggest you replay that particular section of today's installment, so that everyone can hear and judge for him/herself.
It is very clear, that despite some 'panicky' reactions here and there on the blogs, there is a growing demand within the community, that St. Martiners need to be duly recognized in the constitution.
As the former island-Council lady at the time and now 'honorable' Prime-minister stated, back then (See the Daily Herald of Wednesday, February 13, 2011) there are still 'matters outstanding' in the constitution which shuld prevent native indigenous St. Martiners from becoming marginalized in their own land of heritage.
In our 'books', examples of such 'outstanding matters' are the defining of the native, indigenous St. Martiner, creation of legislation to protect and preserve them.
And yes, no apologies, provisions to make sure that they will never be replaced; call them affirmative action or preferential treatment or even positive discrimination or whatever.
The name matters not, the effect does.
In other words, the bottom line is that is 'Country St. Maarten' is supposed to mean something substantial for ST.MARTINERS.
It has to make sure St. Martiners are respected by 'newcomers', immigrants as well as so-called foreign investors and that St. Martiners come first, without necessarily excluding, or disrsepecting the basic human rights of others with an 'added value'
In ending, my dear friend Lloyd, my congratulations to you and I do look forward to the replay of today's installment and to future serious follow-ups and indepth discussions on the matter; it is overdue.

With respect,

Leopold JAMES

No-one in his/her right mind, would want such an event, like what took place in Norway, on Friday, July22, 2011, to happen on the 'Friendly Island'.
But guess what ?
No-one in his/her right mind, would also want to experience another hurricane like Luis, or an earthquake like in Haiti, or a tsunami that hit Japan, just to name a few examples of absolute horror.
But, guess what again.
'Wishful thinking' has never been a good 'coverage' or 'protection' for worst case scenarios.
Quite to the contrary.
In fact, 'playing the ostrich' only allows for the situation to deteriorate and get even worse.
It is like the California super-earthquake, which according to all scientific findings is long overdue.
Imagine, what will happen there, if the US Government doesn't create the appropriate 'contingencies'.
And so it is with the 'Friendly island'.
The best way is be 'ready' for calamities is first to recognize the potential for such events.
Then, to deal with the possibility of such occurring.
In other words.
Research, whether or not the 'ingredients'/preconditions are present for any worst case scenario, be it a natural-, or a man-made one, like what happened in Norway and in many other places before.
This requires vision and real leadership.
Not only the protocol aspect of such, but the realistic, very unpleasant and unpopular aspect of real leadership.
Ever since the occurrence in Norway, the blogs on the island, have been full of heated, emotional discussions and with accusations back and forth.
While these discussions may have brought out a lot of anger and resentment, from their individual points of view, they all have very legitimate arguments.
However, and we have stated that many times before.
The buck stops with the leadership of every country - there is no getting around that.
And in this case, with the person holding the country's highest executive governmental function - the Prime-Minister, whose name happens to be Mr. Sarah WESCOTT-WILIIAMS.
Please take it easy, and do not blame me for that fact, but that is the way it is.
Now, please do not get me wrong.
Not for a fraction of one second, do I think that the job of Prime-minister is an easy one - it most definitely is not.
The point of the matter however is, that once anyone has accepted to hold that office, it comes along with an awful lot of responsibility.
Just for instance look at the dilemma President OBAMA is in.
I love him dearly and was glad he was elected.
But, although he did not create the economic and other mess the US finds itself in - guess what again - the buck stops with the president who happens to be OBAMA.
Now, if we analyze the motive behind the atrocities committed in Norway, at its very core it boils down to a 'global' problem.
Simply put, it is this.
Increasingly, especially in countries with a reasonable economic prosperity there is a constant, almost institutionalized conflict between two opposing forces.
On the one hand, fed by the globalization process, the reality of mass immigration in all its aspects, and on the other hand, the fear of the people of receiving country to lose their identity, their heritage, their way of life and ultimately their very existence as a people.
While in Norway, the native Norwegians still make up, by far the majority of the population, that did not matter for the gunman, whose sentiments, by the way, represent those of many of his country people !
Now, look at the 'Friendly island'.
A total disaster in terms of demographic balance.
The natives being completely overrun, by an immigration deluge gone completely berserk.
For many years, the natives have been crying out, expressing their concerns about being marginalized and becoming the victims, of what historian, Daniella JEFFRY terms - 'silent genocide'.
These cries have fallen completely on 'deaf ears' as far as the politicians are concerned.
Worse yet.
The politicians, for 'political correct reasons'=VOTES, have not only betrayed their own native St. Martin people, they always are always, oh so concerned about immigrants, including those who have broken the laws of the land to be here in the first place and thereafter, about every law.
For instance, we see certain politicians defending the rights of non nationals living on the island for Dutch scholarships and the like.
To top it off, in the Constitution of the land, not a single word is dedicated to the native St. Martiner, but yes, provisions are made to protect human rights of everybody else.
Get the picture ?
So, those who 'wishfully' think and/or hope that there will be no repercussions like in Norway - time will tell.
My bottom-line here is, for the 'umpteenth' time to appeal to the Government of 'Country St. Maarten' to do all it can to prevent what many see might well be inevitable.
As a grassroots movement, we have on many occasions offered our help to Government towards that end.
Although, we represent native St. Martin people, whose very existence is currently at stake, we still prepared a concept, in which we take the interests, concerns, rights of ALL stakeholders into account.
This is our version of a MARSHALL PLAN, which has to potential to create a 'win-win' for all involved.
It is up to GOVERNMENT to be willing to implement such a social-economic 'balancing' concept.
If not, God forbid, Government will have to bear the full consequences.

drs. Leopold JAMES

Dear Editor,

I would like to give my opinion on hiring youngsters out of school as civil servants. What I wonder is this: Why recruit each and every youngster with a little education for a job in government? Are there really so many civil servants needed? What about outsourcing of certain government tasks (primarily administrative tasks)? What is being done to make it more attractive for businesses to hire locals (unskilled and skilled laborers)? Why is there not more diversity in education for our youngsters? Why is there not a "master plan" for the socio-economic landscaping of Sint Maarten in the (near) future?
It is sad to see that there is so much recruiting going on by government to have vacancies filled by our educated youngsters. In our opinion it is more desirable that our youngsters find jobs in the private sector and that government focuses on efficiency with limited resources. Do you want everybody with, for example, an accounting degree working for government? Which local with an accounting degree is then going to work in the private sector? I also believe that certain government duties can be outsourced. This is not being done to the fullest right now. In case it does happen, the project/duties most likely will go to a "consultancy bureau" from someone who has close ties with those in power.
It is also sad to see that there are so many laborers from abroad who can be hired, because they mastered a trade and our youngsters did not. We should create more diversity in our educational system and stimulate our youngsters to learn something else than "hospitality and trade" and "business administration". We hardly have local doctors, pharmacists, craftsman (shoe repair, goldsmith, butcher, tailor, etc). Maybe we should have limited scholarships for certain studies to create a diverse group of professionals and introduce more laws on hiring local people. Here comes possitive discrimination into play.
The question is: Who will be working in what sector 25 years from now in Sint Maarten?

Have a great day,

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson

For those that does not know what is meaning of the word inevitable, it means Impossible to avoid or prevent. Most of our native StMaarten people are afraid of confrontation and love to be like more than being respected. In every country naturalize people born from foreign parents respect and understand they have to follow and give right away to the native people who were there from before. That way is the norm in all countries and in StMaarten there should be no different. A government's first duty should be to its people and it, therefore, has a duty to protect its economic interests from foreign competition and loss. A government should put the interests of its nation first. This includes economics, which means the government has a duty to protect its citizens from foreign competition and loss. A government who fails to do so will find its country victim to other countries where governments do put their interests first. Since we depend on tourism to survive the government does have a duty to protect citizens from foreign competition and loss. We as a nation are dependent on our economy to survive so the government does have a duty legally or at least morally to defend our economy. Without a good economy our country will shrivel and die and become dependent on other nations. Therefore, if our nation wants to survive there are certain measures that have to be taken. Our government should actively protect citizens in every area, even in the job market. While I do not think that the government can fully control the way that StMaarten businesses choose to outsource work or where companies can get their products from, I think the government should have some way to help citizens from being outsourced out of jobs. Probably the best solution would be tax breaks or incentives to StMaarten businesses, which would make it more appealing for them to keep more of their business in the StMaarten. I believe governments must protect their citizens from foreign competition and loss to ensure viable job opportunities within their borders. Governments of countries routinely face business competition on many fronts, and without intervention they could lose many of their jobs overseas. While many might argue that allowing the free market system to work ensures the greatest efficiency, which ignores the need for a country to keep their people employed. Additionally, those employed in areas that concern national security cannot have their jobs lost to foreign competition entirely and that can range from the transportation to the food to the medical sectors. Governments are elected to serve and protect, and the end game of allowing jobs to migrate overseas is allowing your country to fed, clothed, transported and protected by others. Not much of a country is it. When you demand respect, respect will be given. The native StMaarten people is waiting for government to do it, they must do it themselves. You have to fight and earn respect, respect usually is not given. Until the native StMaarten people is willing to confront their parliamentarians and put pressure on them, only then will the government respects them. Native people of StMaarten stand up and fight for your rights, passivism or being quiet sheep will let a false Sheppard (government of StMaarten) lead you to the pack of wolves. Listen read and get understanding with what is written. The protection for native StMaarten people is inevitable.

Yours sincerely,

Richard Fleming

Dear Editor,

Please allow me to state some facts and my opinion on them. In the Netherlands the governing powers are divided in three: the legislative power, the executive power and the judiciary power (Trias Politica). As legislative power you have the First and Second Chamber and as executive power you have the Queen as head of state and the Cabinet (Council of Ministers).
The ministers are (politically) responsible for the daily running of the country. The ministers are held accountable by and execute orders from the members of the Second Chamber. The members of the Second Chamber also come with proposals to amend and/or introduce laws. The members of the First Chamber approve or deny amendments/introduction of the Law. The system in the Second Chamber is based on dualism. This means separation of executive and legislative power. This leads to members of the Second Chamber not having to follow "party politics" to please ministers from the same party.
Government of the Netherlands without the judiciary power:

• 1 Queen
• 12 Ministers (of which 1 is Prime Minister)
• 8 Secretaries of State
• 150 Members of the Second Chamber
• 75 Members of the First Chamber
• 1 President of the Second Chamber
• 2 Griffiers (no governing power)
• 40.000 signatures from voters needed to have a subject put on the agenda in the Second Chamber
• Advisory councils without decision making authority

In Sint Maarten we also have a democracy based on the "Trias Politica". The ministers are (politically) responsible for the daily running of the country and are being held accountable by the members of parliament. Members of Parliament further amend and/or introduce laws and give orders to the ministers.
Government of Sint Maarten without the judiciary power:

• 7 Ministers (of which 1 is Prime Minister)
• 15 Members of Parliament
• 1 President of Parliament
• 1 Griffier
• 1 Governor (no governing power)
• Advisory councils without any decision making authority

Question is: How can we have "dualism" with just a handful politicians who don't even communicate with their membership or the electorate in general?

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson

 

Be an active StMaartener. Actively demonstrate your love for your country StMaarten by being part of its political process. Continually strive for a better StMaarten for all. Study the history of StMaarten. What are some of the great things people have done and how they showed their love of their country? What are some of the things people have done with good intentions but poor results? Learn from StMaarten history -- both the good times and the bad times. Focus on current events. For example, focus on what is also going on in the world as a whole and how your country is involved in it as well. Read stories, and patriotic legends of StMaarten. You will be amazed with such the creativity and imagination of those who wrote or thought up them. Have a hero. Someone who represents your country and is a good role model for you will make you proud to be where you call home. Wear patriotic colors. Nothing shows you love your country more than showing it through clothing or accessories! Fly a flag. You can purchase flags, bumper stickers, or any other emblems at a local store. Hang them on your car, your front lawn, or anywhere that can outwardly show you respect your country StMaarten. Remember to treat the flag with the utmost respect. Recognize that holidays are much more than just occasions for parties. Acknowledge the solemnity inherent to certain holidays, especially those that commemorate a victory that involved bloodshed (Emancipation day). Encourage children to love StMaarten so they will have respect someday as a StMaartener. This is the best way to set a positive example. As children grow older, explain to them why you feel they should hold StMaarten in high regard. Encourage your children to use their minds. Abusing StMaarten or taking advantage of any of its systems or programs is not a good way to show your love. Such corrupt action goes against the goodwill that should be at the core of your patriotism. You certainly do not have to agree with every event and decision made in your StMaarten history to love your country. Consider how StMaarten should recover from mistakes, as well as its ideology as described in some guiding document (such as a constitution). Although such principles are not absolute, reflect on whether these precepts are conducive to a government you think would act with its citizens -- and humanity's -- best interests at heart. For people to believe you love StMaarten, make sure you know the verses to your national anthem, have some trivial knowledge of founding fathers (Native StMaarten people), StMaarten Heritage and culture and history, current events, and cultural heroes. But remember to be a true patriot, you must remember who was there from the beginning and recognize them. Always show great respect for people of StMaarten heritage. Stand up and demand change when your government is not doing what they promise to do. Remember you are a StMaartener before any loyalty to any political party. Make all people that come here and born here love and respect people of StMaarten heritage if they will like to be consider as a StMaartener. Do not be fool; any person who does not like or want StMaarten people to be recognized in the constitution does not love StMaarten. You can never love a country or even its name if you do not love the original native people. To love StMaarten is to accept who was here from the beginning, and that is how you love our country StMaarten. We are StMaarten to the bone. Living and loving being a native StMaartener.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

To The Editor,

First, please permit me to introduce myself to you as I am seeking your intervention of my Brother being seriously burnt to a life threatening condition.

My name is Collin Aaron, a FIFA accredited Referee Instructor, Assessor and Sports Administrator. I reside in the United State of America.

I received a phone called on June 16th from a friend of my brother's notifying me that my elder brother Mr. Carsdale Aaron age 55 was burnt on June 15, 2011 during an explosion while working at St. Maarten Concrete located in  Sucker Garden inside a Gasoline Tank that was set ablaze. He was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center, where he was admitted and left unattended by his work place/boss, since he has no relatives on the Island to take care of his welfare.

My brother was admitted in the Intensive Care Unit, after sustaining extended burn wounds to his entire body and to date no one other than the hospital is caring for him.
Since I was not getting any results, I traveled to St Maarten on Friday June 24, 2011. After seeing his condition and to know that nobody is taking responsibility or showing any remorse for what had happened.

While at the hospital I called Mr. Franklyn, the General manager of St. Maarten Concrete and my brother's boss, I spoke to him seeking to know who will stand responsible for my brother's condition, his response was "I am paying him 80% of his salary until he recovers and discharged from the Medical Center", I further told Mr. Franklyn that I am seeking to have my brother move to America to have better treatment, since there is no burn specialist on the Island and what roll would he play, once again he repeated his only roll is 80% salary to him, but will see what else he could do if we get the transfer , which required a U.S. visa.

It is my knowledge that my brother Mr. Aaron has only received half of his salary for the month of May and had not yet been given any other monies for his services to the said company and to date no one from the company has spoken to Mr. Aaron about any monies owed to him or compensation for his life threatening ordeal.

Based on the above, I also spoke to the person that was responsible for the explosion that led to my brother's life threatening condition ,after getting no results from the General Manager of the company, I was left with no other option than to take the matter to the Police Station where I made a report of the incident to Detective Mr. Dirk Roos, who a few days later visited my brother at the hospital for a statement and reported the matter to the Safety Department who is now investigating the matter as it is now brought to their attention.

To my observation and assessment the Owners/ General Manager and other superiors are trying to cover up this entire incident and do not want to compensate my brother for his life threatening ordeal that he suffered during his employment at the said company. Mr. Aaron's body is so badly burnt that he will never be the same again or may never be able to work again. Mr. Aaron has three children and a wife that are dependent on him.

It is my belief that my brother would not be treated fairly by his boss and others, once he is discharged from the Medical Center. I am therefore seeking the support of the general public to help me in my quest to bring to justice those responsible and seek the necessary compensation.

In conclusion to my letter I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. F Holiday and the staff of the St Maarten's Medical Center.

Please feel free to visit my brother at the St. Maarten Medical Center to obtain first hand information and a true statement beyond what I have explained. I will soon return to the Island to pursue my brother's welfare.

For Justice.

Collin Aaron
Brother

On Wednesday, June 29, 2011, an email was received by me from Mr. William MARLIN.
In this email, Mr. MARLIN informed me of his willingness to meet with me and with other members of our movement to address the 'issue' of 'Who is the St. Martiner' (Quote).
Also Mr. MARLIN gave his word that, upon mutual agreement on the issue, he would submit a proposal to Parliament to make an amendment to the constitution to include that definition in the constitution.
In preparation for a meaningful meeting, it is my intention to present our own written proposals in terms of amending the constitution to include issues relevant to St. Martiners in general.
To this end, on behalf of our grassroots St. Martin nation building movement (The St. Martin Nation Building Foundation & the Association L' Esprit de Concordia) I invite persons interested in participating in an adhoc committee to formulate and present our proposal, to contact me as soon as possible.
Personal should have either a legal and/or governmental and/or other relevant background.

drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF & Ass. L'Esprit de Concordia
Tel. 54 43512 / 05 90 272401 / 5204325 / 5875207

Constitutions often start with a preamble and some provisions about what defines the specific state. The foundational part reflects the identity of the political community. Therefore, it frequently refers to historical events, specifies the symbolism of the country, and appeals to a traditional understanding of the constitution as a nation-building enterprise.

According to the three-element-definition, a state is constituted by a people within a specific territory ruled by a sovereign power. The constitution always defines the necessary instruments of that power and most often contains some reference to the people and to territorial integrity.

National identity (Native People) is the person's identity and sense of belonging to one state or to one nation, a feeling one shares with a group of people, regardless of one's citizenship status.

Identity, also called sameness, is whatever makes an entity definable and recognizable.

National identity is not an inborn trait. Various studies have shown that a person's national identity is a direct result of the presence of elements from the "common points" in people's daily lives: national symbols, language, national colors, the nation's history, national consciousness, blood ties, culture, music, cuisine, radio, television.

A constitution is a set of rules that dictate how citizens live together, including defense of its sovereignty, the role of its government etc. Without a constitution it would be the Wild West again. Every aspect and institution of human civilization requires some form of government to prevent injustice and maintain order. People need boundaries. The healthiest, happiest children are those with clear boundaries. Citizens are subject to the laws of the land in which they reside. Property is secured with boundaries. Armies and business organizations are subject to internal and external rules of order and discipline.

A Harvard professor said this: "A nation without a heritage is easily persuaded." Any genuine solution must involve helping the people rediscover who they are and what set them apart as a people and as a nation.

The national identity of most citizens of one country or one nation tends to strengthen when the country or the nation is threatened. In StMaarten case, native people of StMaarten are becoming extinct. The sense of belonging to the nation is essential as an external threat becomes clearer.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

This is an open invitation to all proud and conscious lawyers of St. Martin heritage and to those who have the St. Martin people at heart.
Just in the case you have not read it in the local media, Mr. William MARLIN has also sent me personally an email on Wednesday, June 29, 2011 indicating his intention to invite me for a meeting.(See attachment)
In this email, Mr. MARLIN promised me, that once a consensus can be reached on the definition of the St. Martiner, he would be willing to propose to Parliament to have the Constitution amended in order to include such.
In response to this letter of Mr. MARLIN, our St. Martin grassroots nation building movement, has decided to install a committee to draft up a proposal of our own in order to present this to the Parliament, via Mr. MARLIN or others for debate/ratification.
In order to be able to come up with a professionally drafted proposal, we have on a number of occasions, approached persons within our community to volunteer their contribution to this very important amendment for St. Martin people.
Among those who did respond to our public appeal, is a lawyer versed both in the American- and well as in the French jurisdiction.
Thus-far however, we have not received any responses from St. Martin lawyers on the 'Dutch'-side of the island.
Although, it is clear that lawyers have very important matters to take care of, for which they receive handsome compensation, we would hate to believe that this case is not worth their time.
After all they too were born from St. Martiners , are as St. Martiners and will die as St. Martiners themselves, if we are not mistaken.
We know that there are many St. Martiners on this side of the island, who are either lawyers, or legal minds, many of whom contributed to the now existing constitution which excluded the St. Martin People.
In ending, we would like to believe, that it would be the highest pride and privilege of any professional St. Martiner, to make use of his/her education-, expertise-, experience to contribute towards a document intended to protect and preserve the rights of his/her own people and to be a real role-model of patriotism for young St. Martiners , who feel abandoned and betrayed by the leaders of this country.
However, let there be wishful thinking and/or illusion that the process will not continue.
It will- as it always has.
Should our draft be finalized and presented without the help of legal minds, any 'after the fact'- comments or criticism, will simply be irrelevant and considered 'another station passed' - as many before.

With respect,

For more information contact;
drs. Leopold JAMES
President St. Martin grassroots nation building movement.

Normally, everywhere we get only job oriented education. But is that really education? Can it teach man to become self confident, brave, self motivated? If not then should we call it education? But if school education is the key to success, why is it that many educated people are unsuccessful in life? Why many professionals are struggling financially, physically and emotionally? On the other hand, why is it that the world's richest is dominated by people who didn't even finish school education? They are called drop outs and undergraduates. People like Bill Gates (founder/CEO of Microsoft), Mark Zuckerberg (founder/CEO of Face book) and Steve Jobs (founder of Apple/CEO). In Philippines, the richest man is a business tycoon who owns a big retail store and malls in Asia. His name is Henry Sy and he owns SM Malls. Mr. Sy didn't is not a graduate scholar. Having a number of high credentials from school education doesn't guarantee success; it only gives you a good start or an edge in this competitive world. It's real education that will get you closer to success. There are two types of education: professional and personal. 1) Professional education (or School Education) it is gained through study of technical terms in school or at work. This type of education mould the professionals like doctors, lawyers, engineers, accountants, inventors, teacher, etc. However, unlike what most people believe in, attaining professional or school education is not enough to reach success, you must also strive to grow your personal self. Which leads us to the next type of education? 2) Personal education (or Self-Education) it happens when you are able to reach a high level of emotional and mental maturity that which composes the right character and attitude towards life. Personal education can be attained through learning personal development which teaches individuals and creates wisdoms and life lessons useful in daily interactions. When you attain personal education, you have an independent mind to make the right choices, you have emotional maturity that protect in times of difficulty, you can communicate and relate well to people, you are able to find your passion and purpose, and also, it helps you develop appreciation and anticipation over people and life. Importance of Real Education I've discovered is the secret to success and happiness in life lies on our ability to attain real education. Life is not perfect, it's not even fair, so don't expect it to be perfect or fair. Do not fall to the same trap that most smart yet unsuccessful people fall into. Take charge of your life, oftentimes, you have the control over it. One of the important ingredients in living the good life is real education. Because when you achieve both professional and personal growth, you become unbeatable. You have the professional and technical skills needed in your endeavor, plus, you've developed high level of maturity and right attitudes in your daily actions. Real education is people who do not care if they are like, they take a stand base and what they know is the right thing to do. Real education builds better character in human. They take on challenges most educated people won't do and they are risk takers. Real education does not follow a system just to be a part of, real education always tries to make the system better and have the courage to do the unpopular things once it is for a just and right cause. StMaarten have a lot of professionals that are not real education they have degrees but they cannot lead or change they are train to follow. That is why in general people are scared to take on our political establishment; they are train to follow and they become limited in their endeavors to change things for the better. So people as the patriot Miguel Arrindell will always be difficult to understand. A person of my character believes in challenging the system that is not fair to people and make it better. (Native people of StMaarten must be recognized in the constitution.) What makes people hate and fear us is our ability not to give up and break down and to be intimidated. We are exactly the kind of people the slave masters and their yes men do not like. We are a few of a kind. We are emancipated and liberated. We are men of character that makes positive changes in this world. Men I admire and that are my role model are our savior Jesus Christ, King David, Moses, John the Baptist and recently Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King. These are men that are real to the deal and failure is never an option. These were men of real education.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

Dear Editor,

It is with great surprise that the board of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation read of Member of Parliament Jules James' participation in a recent Parlatino Environment and Tourism Affairs Committee meeting in El Salvador. While it has almost been a full year since St. Maarten obtained country status, our Parliamentarians have yet to meet with St. Maarten's environmental organizations and have not yet submitted any motions or draft laws in favor of environmental or natural heritage protection.
The Foundation wonders how anyone could claim to credibly represent St. Maarten at a conference or meeting regarding the environment without first informing themselves of what the issues are by consulting with the island's environmental experts.
James' press release refers to Climate Change. It seems that the loss of Glaciers in Latin America concerns the Parliamentarian, rightfully so, but perhaps it would better serve St. Maarten's interests if the good Parliamentarian would focus on the loss of ponds on St. Maarten and make every effort to protect the 5 (out of the once 19) we have left. St. Maarten's Parliamentarians can actively contribute to curbing the onslaught and effects of Climate Change by thinking globally and acting locally; through protecting St. Maarten's Ponds, Hills, Beaches, Coral Reefs, Flora and Fauna and by taking much needed action to resolve solid waste and sewage management issues.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation encourages Parliament to meet with local stakeholders but is not impressed by James' recent spate of lip-service, much has been said by St. Maarten's Politicians regarding the need to protect the environment over the years but very little has been done. Parliament needs to take decisive action; to submit and pass motions ensuring the drafting, implementation and enforcement of environmental legislation, to establish protected areas and include natural heritage education in the School curriculum.
Pride Foundation is available to meet with Parliament to discuss the environmental challenges the island faces. Until such a meeting has taken place St. Maarten's parliamentarians have no credibility when it comes to addressing environmental issues and their trips to Parlatino meetings on the environment are nothing more than leisurely excursions made at the Taxpayers' expense.

Rueben J. Thompson
Vice-President
St. Maarten Pride Foundation

To Mrs. dr. Rhoda ARRINDELL,
Minster of Education, Sports & Culture,

Honorable Minister,

First of all, let me once more express my pride in you as a former student of mine, having bypassed any position/office ever held by me.
I truly believe, that when the next generation of St. Martiners overtakes any achievements of their elders, that such is a legitimate reason for any country to have a sense of pride and hope.
Although the people of this island are facing challenges to their very existence as a people, you are a very powerful example, not only of hope-, but more-so of expectation.
From the media, we have learned of your efforts to have July 1, officially become a national holiday for 'Country St. Maarten'.
On behalf of the grassroots St. Martin nation building- and unification movement, I highly recommend you for working towards this end.
However, I do hope you will have an open mind, in terms of taking the following into consideration as well.
It all has to do, with our conviction that anything we do, labeled 'St. Maarten' and/or 'St. Martin', such should, at its very core, relate to the PEOPLE of this land.
To be very specific, there must be a very clear correlation with those who people inherited this land, through the blood, sweat and tears shed by our ancestors.
People, we refer to as native, indigenous St. Martin people and others refer to as 'St. Martiners of Heritage'.
For us, this is a 'sacred' obligation to our ancestors memory and for their sacrifices made for us to be better off, such as you achieving your PhD.
In addition, by nurturing, preserving and protecting the St. Martin People and their cultural-heritage, a strong basis/foundation will be established for inclusion of others, as integral part of the St. Martin nation building - and unification process.
This is a most critical function we as St. Martin people can play to create a genuine and sustainable overall development of this country and it should be the foremost priority of every elected official on both sides of the island.
Failing to make use of this opportunity, will not only prolong unnecessary concerns, mutual resentments between the various groups of people, but will result in further escalation.
From the feedback, we constantly receive from naturalized citizens and from conscious immigrants, that they too agree that unless 'charity starts' at home for St. Martiners, eventually their own 'born-here' children will face the same results, upon arrival of other 'new-comers'.
Therefore, we are of the opinion, that celebrating 'Emancipation Day' for St. Maarten, without recognizing the St. Martiners, without protecting and preserving them in the Constitution of Country 'St. Maarten' will not be complete, or worse yet, will ring hollow-, and hypocritical.
We certainly would like to believe, that this is definitely not your intention, since you are too intelligent and conscious a St. Martiner yourself.
Now, that we have almost a year, before a possibly St. Maarten Emancipation-Day, becomes a national holiday, we recommend you try to convince your fellow Ministers and members of Parliament to make sure that the Constitution is duly amended to contain the historical importance of Emancipation-Day, as well as the recognition, protection and preservation of the St. Martin people.
Clearly, Emancipation day for St. Maarten, can not historically, morally and meaningfully be separated from these other issues - they are inseparable as are the native, indigenous St. Martin People carrying different nationailties.
We thank you or your kind attention and look forward to your response.
Meanwhile, as we have always done, we as a grassroots St. martin nation building - and unification movement will continue championing the rights of the St. Martin people, with or without cooperation from our elected officials.
Eventually, even those elected officials will benefit from our work, once they are no longer in office.
So, from that point of view, securing the rights of St. Martiners in the Constitution in, and of itself, is a future investment for security and survival of those St. Martiners now holding public office as Ministers, Members of Parliament, the President and Councilors of the Collectivite Saint Martin !

Drs. Leopold JAMES,
President grassroots St. Martin nation building- and unification movement and
Proud native, indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies.

Finally, the panic, hype and hoopla are dying down.
Just the mere mention of the word, 'St. Martiner', had certain people 'scrambling for cover'.
Making the 'crisis' even worse, was the 'audacity' of the nation builders, to even 'entertain' the thought of amending the constitution to actually recognize the people of the country.
Preposterous-, and even 'u
Of course - that is self-evident.
But, just a minute, you St. Martiners want that too and in your own land of heritage ?
Alas, what an apocalyptic nightmare.
However, now that the 'dust is settling', most people are coming to their senses and are starting to accept the inevitable reality that St. Martiners too are a people with a history and heritage, which they must protect.
In addition, most people also accept the principle, that there can only be real, sustainable, development and socioeconomic stability, once such is based on a solid 'foundation'.
And for all intent and purposes, the best 'foundation' for the development of any country, is the native people and their cultural heritage.
Such a 'foundation', allows for a natural, moral and logical basis for inclusion and subsequent integration towards a harmonious society.
It therefore follows, that preserving and reinforcing that 'foundation', is of essential importance for the house called 'Country St. Maarten'
That the elected officials of this country, who were its architects, made a blunder beyond comprehension, by simply omitting the foundation, we hope that they will 'repent'.
One way to 'repent', is to amend the constitution to now 'insert' the 'foundation' of the house called 'Country St. Maarten' and to take precautionary (affirmative action/positive discrimination ?)measures to maintain - it at all cost.
We thank those who have offered us their services to prepare a proposal to this extent to Parliament.
We expect to have our first meetings within a few weeks.
Hopefully, we are able to present our proposal to the relevant authorities at a date, appropriate for the occasion.
While '11-11-11' might sound like a beautiful catch-phrase, that date might be too ambitious.
But then again, we still have other options, like 10-10-11 or 01-07-12.
Amending our constitution as proposed, will go a long way towards real nation building, unification and nationhood.
Regardless, of the challenges ahead, eventually it will be accomplished and the spirit of our deceased ancestors, who shed blood, sweat and tears, will be able to finally be at peace.
We owe it to them and that is our sacred mission as grassroots movement. 

Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia

'Uncle' de Robert,

You said you would do it, and you did it.
You put together a 'Breakfast with De Dje Robert special' installment on PJD2, this Sunday morning, July 24, 2011, in anticipation of my birthday, Monday, July 25, 2011.
I must admit that you did a 'wickedly' good job which really touched me very deeply.
Be assured my friend, that I am very grateful to you, for having at least, on several occasions, given me the opportunity to get our message of the St. Martin nation building- and unification process across, as well as the crucial role therein of the native, indigenous St. Martin People.
In addition, I have the greatest admiration and respect for your understanding of this process.
You told me on various occasions that you never felt that our cause was intended to exclude any group.
Rather, you clearly understood that it was meant to create the proper set of circumstances for a sustainable development and nation building.
In ending.
Thanks again 'Uncle' de Robert, on behalf of the grassroots St, Martin People, for not being biased against our natural and legitimate desire as St. Martin People, to also enjoy the privileges of the universla principle, that 'Charity should always start at home'

May God bless you,

Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia

Dear editor,

Please allow me to voice my opinion on the turnover tax. In 1996, the turnover tax (ToT) of 3% had been introduced on Sint Maarten. At the time, this measure was already a topic of heavy discussion on the island. Businesses were allowed to state the 3% next to, sometimes up to 15%, service charges on the receipt and or invoice. It was thought that the turnover tax would affect the cost of living (and it did). The idea was to have this tax only implemented temporary. Fifteen years later this tax is not only still in place on the island, but it has even increased to 5%.
That the discussion has been ongoing can be noted by, for example, the notice from the Inspectorate of Taxes in February 2003 that the turnover tax is not a sales tax and can not be charged separately and the proposal by a former commissioner, and leader of the then ruling political party, in May 2010 to have 2% of the collected turnover tax remaining on Sint Maarten and have 1% of the collected turnover tax sent to the federal government of the Netherlands Antilles.
Taking note of the few facts stated above, it is unimaginable that changes to this controversial tax would be made by a government without consulting the social partners and stakeholders. However, within two months after taking office, the current government of Sint Maarten decided to increase the turnover tax to 5%.
On initiative of the labor unions on Sint Maarten a meeting was held between the minister of finance and union representatives in December 2010. The union representatives were informed by the minister of finance why the decision had been taken to increase the turnover tax. On their turn the union representatives informed the minister of finance of their concerns about the spiraling upwards of prices and an increase of the indexation figures. Also in December 2010, a meeting was held between the minister of finance and the president of the local hospitality and trade association, representing close to 150 hospitality and trade companies. And again, this meeting was held on request by the "other party" than the minister of finance. During this meeting the minister of finance informed the representative of the association like he informed the union representatives. The representative of the hospitality and trade companies also stated that he expected an increase in the cost of living. Next to that he stated his concern that costumers would look to do their shopping on other islands as a result of increased prices on Sint Maarten. He also mentioned that the government had the option to choose for a three year transition period.
My opinion is that it shows lots of disrespect and or incompetence towards the social partners and stakeholders not to include them into the decision making concerning the turnover tax. I also believe that it shows incompetence that government has to increase any tax, while it is common known that there is a lack of compliance to tax collection. Government should first clean their own house before looking for revenues outdoors. I do have to agree with the unions and the hospitality and trade companies that we will see (and are seeing) an increase in the cost of living, because of this decision, and that it will not only force customers to other islands for their shopping, but also that it will make investors think twice to invest on an island where the returns are getting lower and lower and that it looks like there is no proper financial planning on government finances (ad hoc decision making creates uncertainty for the future).
In closing I can say that it is not desirable to increase any tax to increase revenues unless other possibilities have been looked at and social partners and stakeholders have been consulted. First, one has to look at cost cutting measures. Efficiency of executing government tasks is number one in this field. Second, I can repeat myself in stating that government should look for existing possibilities to increase revenues by enforcing the law on tax collection. Lowering returns and an unstable investment climate will harm the local economy. I am also in favor of a diversity of education which should lead to diversity in the economy. Turnover tax should be abolished and could be replaced by, for example, a value added tax (VAT). The last two statements however, are subjects by their selves and I will come back on that.

Have a great day,

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson

Please allow me some space in your news paper editor. This is my first time writing because I am mad as hell. Most of my life I had voted for Mr. William Marlin, rest surely the National Alliance will never get my vote again. There was time they have done things I have forgiving, but the fact that William Marlin and his cronies can be so bold to try to table a motion for illegal immigrants children when we the real StMaarten people is also suffering is disrespectful. I recall the party S.P.M and then the S.P.A and the now N.A was suppose to be the party that fights for the native StMaarten people rights. And right now that party is fighting for illegal immigrants children. We were told by our parents DP was not for you. But I am shock to see how the table turns. I see the UP Party and the DP party block a motion against NA to seek special rights for the illegal immigrant's children. I was so happy, and I never taught that can happen. How can I ever vote for William Marlin and his cronies when he was suppose to do what UP Party and DP is doing. With friends like William Marlin who needs enemies. William Marlin is a man who likes StMaarten when he is out of power, but is against native StMaarten people when he is in power. Dr. Lloyd Richardson and Frans Richardson are mayor disappointments to me. Everybody in the National Alliance is afraid to stand up and remove William Marlin from that party and that party is right now irrelevant for most native StMaarten people. I am beginning to understand now why Patrick Illidge has left the party. William Marlin has now shown his true colors. I never taught I will say this; I was a person that bad talk Leopold James and his foundation. But now I can see clearly he is right. I was against that foundation of Leopold James, and I now see Miguel Arrindell join. I have to say those are exactly the kind of people StMaarten need who have the courage to stand and fight for us. It is time to send William Marlin home and retire him from his job. I am getting braver now and I am proud to say I am a real StMaartener and I am not afraid any more to speak up. The only politician I will ever vote for must be willing to help we the native StMaarten people first and for most. William Marlin fail the test intentionally and there for he is off my books. Whatever he says or does from now on to me does not matter. Because he is an untrustworthy man. As I said before, with friends like William Marlin who needs enemies?

Richard Fleming

Dear Editor,

I would like to go into the subject "representation of people in a democracy". Surfing the net and taking some information from Wikipedia I came up with the following:
A political party is a political organization that typically seeks to influence government policy, usually by nominating their own candidates and trying to seat them in political office. Parties participate in electoral campaigns, educational outreach or protest actions. Parties often espouse an expressed ideology or vision bolstered by a written platform with specific goals, forming a coalition among disparate interests (mark the words "IDEOLOGY" and "PLATFORM").
Families of parties from left to right: communist, socialist, green, liberal, Christian democratic, conservative and libertarian. The position of two other types, agrarian and regional/ethnic parties vary. Another category is Islamic political parties.
The representatives form an independent ruling body (for an election period) charged with the responsibility of acting in the people's interest, but not as their proxy representatives not necessarily always according to their wishes, but with enough authority to exercise swift and resolute initiative in the face of changing circumstances (mark the words ""ELECTION PERIOD").
The ELECTORATE = "US", the "THE PEOPLE". "WE" decide who is representing us in which political party to influence "OUR" needs on a political level. There is clearly a need for a party who is clear about their IDEOLOGY and has this written in a PLATFORM which doesn't change every second, because it sounds/looks right. Next to this platform, a political party should be clear about their intentions on what they will try to accomplish during a specific ELECTION PERIOD. When the ELECTORATE is not satisfied with the executions of the IDEOLOGY and representation of the ELECTORATE, they will have the power to choose other party/representatives for a specific ELECTION PERIOD.

Have a great day,

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson

Dear Editor,

Please allow me to elaborate on the following. Value added tax (VAT) in theory avoids the cascade effect of sales tax by taxing only the value added at each stage of production (Sint Maarten might not physically produce products, but has also services and sales in several stages, for example: Supermarket- Dry cleaner- Delivery truck - Hotel). For this reason, throughout the world, VAT has been gaining favor over traditional sales taxes. In principle, VAT applies to all provisions of goods and services. VAT is assessed and collected on the value of goods or services that have been provided every time there is a transaction (sale/purchase). The seller charges VAT to the buyer, and the seller pays this VAT to the government. If, however, the purchaser is not an end user, but the goods or services purchased are costs to its business, the tax it has paid for such purchases can be deducted from the tax it charges to its customers. The government only receives the difference; in other words, it is paid tax on the gross margin of each transaction, by each participant in the sales chain.
In theory sales tax is normally charged on end users (consumers). The VAT mechanism means that the end-user tax is the same as it would be with a sales tax. The main difference is the extra accounting required by those in the middle of the supply chain; this disadvantage of VAT is balanced by application of the same tax to each member of the production chain regardless of its position in it and the position of its customers, reducing the effort required to check and certify their status.
A general economic idea is that if sales taxes exceed 10%, people start engaging in widespread tax evading activity (like buying over the Internet, pretending to be a business, buying at wholesale, buying products through an employer etc.) On the other hand, total VAT rates can rise above 10% without widespread evasion because of the novel collection mechanism. However, because of its particular mechanism of collection, VAT becomes quite easily the target of specific frauds.
The standard way to implement a VAT involves assuming a business owes some percentage on the price of the product minus all taxes previously paid on the good. If VAT rates were 10%, an orange juice maker would pay 10% of the U$ 5.- per liter price (U$ 0.50) minus taxes previously paid by the orange farmer (maybe U$ 0.20). In this example, the orange juice maker would have a U$ 0.30 tax liability.
So I am in favor of the VAT, because each business has a strong incentive for its suppliers to pay their taxes, allowing VAT rates to be higher with less tax evasion than a retail sales tax. What is your take?

Have a great day,

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson

Norway is a part of the so-called Scandinavian peninsula, way to the North of Europe.
It is one of the most peaceful countries on this planet.
A country with majestic mountains, fjords, lakes, forests and also very well know for its midnight sun.
It's landscape is unimaginably serene and idyllic and it attracts people from all over the world, who want to meditate in a setting of total peace and harmony.
But, perhaps even more impressive, are the people of Norway.
A people known for their tolerance, great welfare-system, where police officers do not wear side-arms and politicians, go to work on their bicycles, or take the public transportation system, rubbing shoulders with known and unknown fellow passengers.
A more friendly and safe place, can hardly be imagined.
And then it happened - on July 22, 2011.
A most unthinkable event..... cadoom, bang, bang and many more bangs...
At the end of the day, almost 100 people killed in cold blood, mostly young people and a government building blown up in Oslo, its capital.
People are in a daze, the King cried and people still can not believe it happened...Norway's own '9/11' on July 22, 2010.
Here now is the question any leader/Government should ask themselves, including 'Country St. Maarten'
Is there a lesson to be learned for us ?
If it could have happened there in the Nordic 'paradise', could it also happen elsewhere - even on the 'Friendly island' ?
Of course, such a though could easily be shrugged off; after all isn't that what our politicians are constantly doing ?
The intention of this long introduction is to recommend our 'honorable' Prime-minister for, on our behalf, officially condemning the attacks in Norway.
That shows that there is a compassion for injustice, one would tend to believe and it should fill us all with pride and hope for our own future, right here on the island.
However, just for the record.
Isn't this the same P.M. of 'Country St. Maarten', whose Government in fact is doing the same to her people, as the derailed Norwegian gunman accused his Government of -
'bending backwards' for illegal immigrants, but at the same time throwing their own natives under the 'colloquial bus' ?
Isn't this the same P.M. who played political games, when she complained about 'Outstanding matters in the Constitution' ?
Such as safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Maarteners that they won't be marginalized (Read the Daily Herald of Wednesday, February 17, 2010)
Isn't this the same P.M. who is so eager to 'measure up' to other global leaders, but systematically turns a 'blind eye' to what happens to the natives of her own country ?
It is like a fireman, traveling all over the globe, looking for fires to extinguish, while his own house is ablaze with fire.
Does that make any sense ?
Well, not according to the gentleman in Norway, who acted out of revenge against the immigration policies of the Government of his country
Clearly, Norway's P.M. and Government were caught with 'their pants down'.
Will that also happen to others ?
Our own P.M. and Government better take these events on foreign soil as a lesson to learn from.
Wouldn't it be very ironic, if God forbid, the same Norwegian P.M., might also have to, one day, express the same sympathy to the 'Country St. Maarten' - should the unthinkable also occur here ?
A very crazy idea ?
Oh yes, in Norway too that was crazy, that is up until Friday, July 22, 2011, it also was unthinkable - no more.
Things in Norway will never be the same anymore.
In ending, one should be very mindful of certain valuable sayings.
One is that Governing means looking ahead and having a vision.
Another one is that 'an once of prevention is better that a pound of cure'.

Leopold JAMES

Dear editor,

In StMaarten it is normal when you ask where are you from the answer you get 95 percent of the time is, I am not from here or the so call StMaartener will tell you my mother and father is from some were else. Often times you here I can go back to my mother country where I am really from. We the native StMaarten people accept that and have no problem with that. Now the time comes to define who is a StMaartener, suddenly the population of StMaarten turns from 10 Percent native StMaarteners to 70 percent of people from StMaarten Heritage. This is interesting, the very same people who did not want to be call StMaarteners and over the past 30 years were proud to be call foreigners, are pretending now to be shock and saying how you can exclude us. For the last 30 years they all was glad to excuse their selves which they have rightfully done, and now we are continuing the process of giving every person their reward they them selves proclaim and now they are saying we are excluding them. It is clear most of these people only wants to be a StMaartener for one thing that is the Dutch citizenship or Dutch passport which is no problem to us, you all can go fight Holland for that and if you like take them to court. That is not our problem. But do not come here and tell me you are a StMaartener. Heritage and ancestry is what you born with or inherited from your ancestors way back. There are real native people of StMaarten who also get us mad, they act hopeless and continue to say stupid statements well you all are right and I agree with you but I do not want to be victimize. Mr. Editor these people do not realize they are already victims of neglect and that is the shameful part of it, I pity those real StMaarteners they act like wimps and but that does not mean they deserves to be trample on. My questions to the native StMaarten people are you a traitor or are you a patriot? A traitor blends in with our opponents (the anti StMaarten people) a patriot fight the good fight and accepts death if it comes along. A patriot always shows their true belief and intent and makes clear in actions where his or her loyalty is to. From day one we initiate our mission, we leads our mission it and we will successfully see our mission be accomplished. The questions to all native StMaarten people and born here and the naturalize citizens are you traitors or will you be patriots. For all those that truly love StMaarten, will and should agree with us, for the pretenders of loving StMaarten and the anti StMaarten people, trust me you are free to leave and is not welcome back. There are many people writing articles and write on the internet blogs but they never put their names, these people are cowards and not to be trusted. People must show who they are and what side they are on. As Jesus said if you my sheep and I call your name you will hear me. A traitor is a person who betrays another, a cause, or any trust, a person who commits treason by betraying his or her country or native people. You can tell those who are not native StMaarteners they come up with all type of rhetoric to include themselves and then they try to include illegal immigrant's children, which prove they are not belongers. These people are traitors to people of StMaarten heritage. The patriots are the people that gladly identify themselves and put their selves on the line to fight for what is their inheritance. All those people who complains what are we going to do and continues to complain is not only coward but are traitors because they refuse to stand up and defend what is their rights and inheritance. A coward will never be a patriot, he prefers to sit back and let himself or herself continues to be a victim. So all native people of stmaarten if you are afraid to speak up and to say who you are means you are glad of becoming extinct and are cowards as well as being traitors. You should be ashame of your selves. In conclusion coward is not worthy of a harvest he did not take part of. My people define who you really are; you're either traitors or you either a patriots.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

Dear Editor,

Mr. Le Poole said in response to the SNBF our firm believes that making a distinction in a constitution between (groups of) people based on origin, ancestry or ethnicity is unconstitutional in itself and in any case cannot serve any legitimate purpose. A lawyer is someone that represents people on matters of law. It is a profession, just like being a teacher or an engineer. I will not judge Mr. Le Poole intention, however as a lawyer he was quite hurry to respond on a matter that is so important about native people of StMaarten. It is not a matter of discrimination it is a matter or rights. Let me explain. If a creature is endangered of being extinct and the only manner of protecting the future is to give it special privilege for it survival, does that mean you are discriminating against other creatures? Absolutely not. If a student need more help on a particular subject and he or she is giving more attention for he or she to improve does that means we are discriminating against the other students? In countries like the Netherlands, USA and France it is a fact that there are laws protecting certain species and animals. The question to Mr. Le Poole does that mean those countries is practicing discrimination. In society governments protects and help the weakest groups of people in society, does that means governments is discriminating? I am not a lawyer, but I taught the whole purpose of law was the see points of view from all sides evaluate them on the facts and make decision on the evidence that is presented. In the U.S.A all minority groups was awarded affirmative actions to help them elevate their unfortunate situation which was done by slavery. So I must assume that Mr. Le Poole if he was an American will not be in favor of affirmative actions for the poor African Americans and Cherokee Indians and Hispanic Americans. I must come to the conclusion he will call it discriminating against the Caucasian Americans who in fact had enslaved all these minority groups of people. Let's focus on the native people of StMaarten Heritage, who help people of all cultures and race and sex and religion and practice human rights to the highest extent. In doing this good act of human rights don't Mr. le Poole thinks that our native StMaarten people deserve to be recognized in the constitution. This leads me to one conclusion that Mr. Le Poole does not care about the native StMaarten people. What I am interesting in knowing what does the lawyers of StMaarten heritage thinks. Lawyers like Gibson Senior and Junior, and lawyers like Bell, Bryson, and Groeneveldt. It will be interested to see if they will use law or constitution to terminate their very existence as a people. This will prove if they have real education or only school education. I am not surprise of Mr. Le Poole reaction in fact I expect that sort of answer of him. If he was in our position I wonder if he would interpret the law in that manner. Mr. Le Poole answer give our quest to be recognized even more validity, he is helping us prove our point that StMaarten people is throw under the bus. Mr. Le Poole in StMaarten we have a way of expressing our selves, it goes like this "today for me tomorrow for you". You are a smart man figure it out. My conclusion is you are a man that I cannot trust. But I respect you for one thing; at least you show me what kind of man you are. In short I understand exactly what you mean, everybody in StMaarten is welcome no matter if they are legal or not. But native StMaarten people are allow to die without protection. Keep up your good works in fighting for the helpless. That's why I only trust Jesus Christ.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

Dear Editor,

Life in StMaarten is not what you think it is. Many people or probably the most people in StMaarten live in fear of our government. You might ask why you say so. If you do a survey or poll and ask the electorate of StMaarten will you go on public radio or TV or newspaper and criticize the government in the manner they are handling the people's business? The vast majority will say no. This is the reality that the public in StMaarten is not and does not feel emancipated. Emancipation is a term used to describe various efforts to obtain political rights or equality, often for a specifically disenfranchised group (Not only native StMaarteners but also legal immigrants), or more generally in discussion of such matters. Emancipation also means the act or process of setting somebody free or of freeing somebody from restrictions.
"Political emancipation" as a phrase is less common in modern usage, especially outside academic, foreign or activist contexts. However, similar concepts may be referred to by other terms. For instance, in the United States the civil rights movement culminating in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 can be seen as further realization of events such as the Emancipation Proclamation and abolition of slavery a century earlier. Another group of people that are hypocrites in StMaarten is those that fight for independence in StMaarten but never stand and defend the native people of StMaarten heritage. StMaarten can never be independent without the recognition of the native people. Lots of people living in StMaarten are afraid to voice their opinion of all political parties for the fear of victimization. This represents a clear and present danger in StMaarten. People sell their votes and then they are made to live in fear or else we can either take your job or your land and who knows maybe your life. Is that the kind of democracy or freedom we does celebrate on emancipation day? The people of StMaarten must stop living a lie and stop fooling their selves, StMaarten is anything but emancipated. The only people who are truly emancipated are the illegal immigrants who broke the law and get rewarded with compulsory education and study financing. I challenge anybody if we can replace the entire government with an independent governing body and ask people in specific what they think about our ministers and legislators you will hear a mountain of not only criticism but hard and personal feeling in peoples heart. This proves people in StMaarten are living in fear of government even thou they continue to vote for them. The people in StMaarten really needs to be emancipated from fear of government and must learn freedom does not come free in must be fought for. This is why the native people of StMaarten heritage should be recognize with special privileges, what this does is a clear act of emancipation that no politician can use or abuse the native StMaarteners economically and there for enhance economic opportunities without no fear of political victimization be it physically or economically or mentally. The question the people of StMaarten should ask their government how you can have a country without the identity of its native people. It is time to emancipate all people living in StMaarten and that is why we must continue to voice our opinion, because freedom never comes free. Thanks to the entire media of StMaarten that is helping us emancipate ourselves from mental slavery. This is helping us to eliminate the clear and present dangers that exist in StMaarten.

Yours truly,

The Patriot Miguel Arrindell

The representative of the State in the island territories of St. Barths and St Martin (M. Jacques SIMONNET) has deemed the unanimous decision taken by the elected members of the island territory with regards to their refusal to follow the recommendation of the Territorial Chamber of Accounts to be « irresponsible ». The recommendation made by the Chamber of Accounts suggested to double the rate of the General Tax on Sales revenue. As leader of the RASSEMBLEMENT-RESPONSABILITE-REUSSITE group which has requested that the Préfet would refer to the Chamber on matters regarding the insincerity and the imbalance of the 2011 budget, and as instigator and co-writer of the Motion that was voted on unanimously, I feel obligated to react to the irresponsible, out of place and anti republican comments made by the representative of the State. My reaction has been somewhat tempered by apologies made.
Allow me to cite the words of apology published in the press « The word « irresponsibility » that has been used to express my feeling is rather strong and I sincerely regret it – it is only the translation of a general remark but the fact that it may have shocked or offended a few elected officials, while there was no contempt for them in the remarks I made about them, I ask them to accept my sincerest apologies. »
This reply, however sincere it may be, does not seem appropriate or even heartfelt because, very unfortunately, the author still feels the officials have only reacted out of emotion and squeamishness ( his words: "shocked or offended") ; he doesn't seem to have rightly measured his disrespect nor the position of the one who has uttered such words (The representative of the State, an appointed civil servant) and the ones he has openly criticized or judged (elected members of the Territorial Council of an Autonomous District, elected persons resulting from the expression the people's choice and who decided unanimously and conscientiously).
This whole thing makes me uncomfortable, and I wish to remind the Préfet – Representative of the State, that no matter how much a representative of the State he is, neither the State that he is supposedly representing nor its services are above the constitution. The Constitution states a fundamental and founding rule which is the « Free Administration of Administrative Districts » by its elected members. In other words, the elected officials are sovereign in their administration decisions (as long as they respect the law). To refuse to implement a recommendation from the Chambers of Accounts is not an infringement of law. I wanted to remind him of this first point, but seeing he made apologies, I can't go any further.
I would have liked to remind the Préfet – Representative of the State, that his mission is to verify the legality and not to control the opportunity or even the decisions taken, but seeing that he made an apology, perhaps, I no longer should.
I would have liked to remind the Préfet – Representative of the State that the statutory procedure in requesting a recommendation from the Chamber of Accounts is (briefly) as follows:

• After referral, the Chamber has one month to issue its report,
• After the publishing of its report, the President must present this report on the first occasion of a Council meeting and notify the Council of the recommendations made by the Chamber.
• The decision of the Council is then forwarded to the Chamber which has 15 days to appreciate whether the decisions taken can indeed regulate the deficit. It communicates its conclusions to the Préfet who, in the event the decisions taken are not in favour of resolving the problems, will then decide whether he should regulate the budget.

The fact is the Council has taken its decision by a motion on Thursday July 7th, 2011; the deliberations could not have been sent to the office in charge of the verification of the legality before Monday July 11th, 2011. Yet, from Saturday July 9th, 2011 during the inauguration in French Quarter of the housing from SEMSAMAR, the Préfet – Representative of the State had already begun to make his disrespectful remarks about the elected officials and their decision. How should one understand and tolerate that the Préfet – Representative of the State, makes such unacceptable comments? How does one explain his criticism that is out of place whereas he had not yet received the document which, by law, had to first be sent to the Territorial Chamber of Accounts? There's no way he could have been in any position to express himself on this matter publicly. Again, I would have liked to ask the Préfet – Representative of the State to give an explanation for his actions, but seeing he's made a public apology, maybe I should abstain.
I would have liked to remind the Préfet – Representative of the State, of the fact that.....
I sure would have also liked to remind the Préfet – Representative of the State, that... but seeing he's made a public and profuse apology, after all, maybe I should abstain.

Alain RICHARDSON
President of the group RASSEMBLEMENT-RESPONSABILITE-REUSSITE

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- District needs assessment surveys are currently underway as part of the Integrated Neighbourhood Development Program (INDP).

The needs assessment survey is an essential part of the INDP. The survey consists of research and systematic consultation with community residents, stakeholders and project organizations to identify the social problems, the needs of the various persons living in the targeted neighbourhoods, their housing needs as well as existing agencies and available programs to deal with these problems.

Recently, 16 community development staff members were trained to carry out the surveys. Surveys in Dutch Quarter and Belvedere are completed. Cole Bay and Cay Bay are on-going with Down Street and Over the Pond scheduled to start next week.

With the information in hand, Community Help Desk officers will be able to efficiently provide assistance to those in need. The primary objective is to increase the quality of life in low income communities.

Within the coming weeks and months three Community Help Desk officers will be able to efficiently provide assistance to those in need.

The primary objective is to increase the quality of life in low income communities. Within the coming weeks and months three Community Help Desks will be opened in three communities.

This effort by Government is seen as a national effort to tackle the social issues being faced by communities in need by helping individuals who face challenges.

The surveys will provide information with respect to what the problems of the residents entail, the consistency and magnitude of the problems as well as the total number of vulnerable groups.

The target groups that have been identified are: elderly, youths, and parents, single mothers, teenage mothers, drug-addicts, chronically ill patients, the mentally ill, persons living below the minimum wage or the poverty level.

Surveys carried out in the past have also identified that many problems surrounds aspects of criminality, immigration and undocumented persons, unemployment etc. Problem areas can also be domestic violence, child abuse, divorce, legal aspects related to alimony, labour disputes and school drop-outs.

The INDP project is responsible for the improvement of the neighbourhoods. It is a proactive process of integrating social, cultural, economic and environmental planning to build community commitment and capacity.

The intention is to contribute to the development of the neighbourhood by creating a closer and stronger tie with the people and organizations existing within the neighbourhoods where assessments are being carried out or have already been carried out.

A holistic approach has been developed in order to provide the assistance to communities in need.

The INDP falls under the responsibilities of the Prime Minister and the Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Hon. Hiro Shigemoto says he is available to meet with the Chamber of Commerce & Industry and is a phone call away to provide additional information regarding national financial, fiscal and tax matters.

Shigemoto who returned to the island on Tuesday from New York said he has taken note of the Chamber of Commerce's comments made in one of the daily newspapers and he will be following up with them with respect to their public query.

"I'm a phone call away if the Chamber needed information or wanted to organize a meeting. The national country budget was signed by the Governor and I as Minister of Finance in the latter half of the week of July 4 into law.

"The Voorjaarsnota (Financial Overview Memorandum), another very informative document outlining the planning and direction of the country was widely publicized by the media after it was submitted to parliament near the end of May. There were many articles in the newspapers over a two week period, at least for the first two weeks of June.

"Thereafter, we had a plus 12-hour budget debate where additional information was provided and information from the Voorjaarsnota was also reiterated during the parliamentary session.

"The Ministry of Finance has been very transparent where this is concerned and we continue to work in developing a new tax system for the country. I will however, in the meantime send a copy of the 2011 national budget and Vooraarsnota to the Chamber of Commerce for their review," Minister of Finance Hon. Hiro Shigemoto said on Tuesday.

The Financial Overview Memorandum gives an outline about the status of financial affairs of the country Sint Maarten since 10-10-10.

Minister Shigemoto in his introduction to the 12-page document points out that there must be the will to work together and not work against each other in order to realize the opportunities that exist for the country and its people.

The Financial Overview Memorandum sections provide information on economic growth; informal sector, shadow economy; national debts and budget deficits; public service level and quality of life; dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles; the year 2010 up to 10-10-10; the period 10-10-10 up to December 31, 2010.

Other areas covered are: the first quarter of 2011; other (budget 2011, acceptable tax burden, interest norm, budget 2012); structural measures to balance the budget on the long-term; and closing remarks.

The Minister added that he was pleased to read that the Chamber of Commerce acknowledged its own shortcomings and was planning to become more active.

"The business community is what has contributed to the success of Sint Maarten. It is due to the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that Sint Maarten is the envy of many Caribbean islands.

"We need to move away from the premise that government has the answer for everything and can fix everything. Everybody has a role to play and the business community also has a role to play as well. The private sectors hands are not tied and they should come together to see what can be done to help the Sint Maarten community," Minister of Finance Hon. Hiro Shigemoto concluded.

In the meantime Government continues to govern and deal with the issues at hand and put in place certain integral national development structures.

During the Mnister's working visit to New York, he met with three financial rating companies such as Fitch, Moody's and Standard & Poors. Government will select one or two of the financial rating companies which will then carry out an analysis of the country to give the latter a credit rating and/or sovereign country rating.

"This is important for many different reasons among which to establish country Sint Maarten in the financial capital world once the rating has been completed and published. A credit rating will open opportunities in the market for our country to attract project financing and debt financing.

"Once one or two firms have been selected, they will go through the financial figures and statistical information related to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), debt to GDP ratio, GDP per capita income and much more. Government is looking forward to this being completed as soon as possible," Minister of Finance Hon. Shigemoto disclosed on Tuesday upon his return to the island.

Bridgetown, BARBADOS:--- The Cave Hill campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI) celebrated its first victory in the Caribbean Case Study Analysis Competition by dethroning the previously unbeaten Mona campus on the Cave Hill campus recently.

This year three teams, from the Cave Hill, Mona and St. Augustine campuses, took part, putting their business case analysis and presentation skills to the test in analysing the Richard Ivey School of Business-produced Coral Divers Resort case study.

The Cave Hill team became the first to break the consecutive run of the Mona team which had won the competition's three previous editions. St. Augustine was second while Mona was third. Cave Hill hoisted the challenge trophy as well as US $1,500 cash. Mona received a team cash prize of US $750, while St. Augustine received a team prize of US $500.

The CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank Chairman's Prizes each valued at US $500 were also awarded with the Cave Hill team winning the prize for the Most Original Presentation. Mona won for the Best Analysis of the Case and also copped the prize for the Best Individual Presenter with Chinese exchange student Nan Li from the University of Lafayette.

Team Spirit Prizes of US $200 each were presented to members of each team recognised for their role in building and promoting team spirit. Winners awarded were: Kiz Nathaniel, Kaydean Dale and Dawn Davis from the Cave Hill, Mona and St. Augustine campuses respectively.

The presentations were judged by a panel of five judges from corporate Barbados represented by CIBC FirstCaribbean's Patricia Rowe-Seale, Audit Portfolio Director; Jacqui Bend, Head of Investigations and Reconciliations; and Roslyn Turney, Manager – Client Relationship and Service Delivery. They were joined on the panel by Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry members Dr. Basil Springer and David Hutchinson in selecting the winning teams and individual performances.

Teams had a maximum of 20 minutes in which to present the case and 10 minutes to respond to questions from the panel of judges and were evaluated on content (65%) and delivery style (35%).

This year's competition featured a series of team building and motivational exercises aimed at forging strong ties with business students across the region while providing academic and educational training.

A joint initiative by FirstCaribbean and the UWI, the annual competition is funded by CIBC FirstCaribbean which recently threw its support once again behind the competition to the tune of USD $75,000 over a period of three years.

The competition is open to universities across the region and promotes the use of the CIBC FirstCaribbean business cases, as well as other Caribbean business cases, as a teaching device in University classrooms, enabling students to examine classroom theory in practical business realities.

Each team comprised five student members as well as a faculty member. Cave Hill's team members were Dr. Akhentoolove Corbin, faculty, and students - Dexter Norville, Olaoluwa Samuel-Biyi, Lynford Inverary, Kiz Nathaniel, and Rowena Boyce. Mona's team featured Dr. Trevor Smith and Tenneil Rashford (faculty members) as well as Kaydean Dale, Matthew Ferguson, Andrew Khan, Nan Li, and Karamo Riley; and the team from St. Augustine relied on faculty member Renata Tulsie, and students Qayyim Shaikh, Tamara Prosper, Shinelle Law, Janay Tamara Patrick, and Dawn Davis.

Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that the abuse of the short term labor contract continues. He was approached by two persons who informed him that they were told one day before their contracts expired that it would not be renewed. One of them born on the northern side (French) had been working for the company 10 years while the other born on the Southern side (Dutch) was employed for 6 years. They were on short term contracts during this whole time. As one can remember the faction of the National Alliance submitted a request to have Book 7 of the civil code amended to deal with the abuse of the short term contracts. The Member of Parliament is hoping that the responsible advisory entities would work on this amendment as soon as possible to ensure it is ready for handling in Parliament. (We will have our hands full) The discussions surrounding this issue will be intense because in most cases employers are concerned about their bottom line and not the workers. He has already explained his position in the last article "Missing the Mark". What must not be forgotten is the pressure it is putting on social society and the hostility and feeling of hopelessness it is creating. It is unfortunate that some employers are continuing this practice which is legal but in many cases unethical, unethical in the sense that one of the workers was immediately replaced. The Member of Parliament asked if the complainant whether there were any job related issues that could have brought this about and was told that this was not the case. The employee plans to take the matter to court. What is interesting is that the Member of Parliament has been approached by several other persons about this problem and it turns out that this has happened recently in two other multimillion guilder businesses where persons who were employed for years are being told that their contracts will not be renewed. The decisions in these particular companies are apparently being taken by offshore managers (first time I heard the term). A term I have heard used is hatchet man (mostly from abroad and in this case they are) whose sole task is to get rid of long term employees. Morality and integrity cannot be legislated and therefore the abuse continues.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulates Nevis Premier Joseph Parry on his election win on Monday.

The ruling Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) won Monday's election when it won three seats in the five-member Nevis Island Administration, according to preliminary results.

The NRP led by Premier Parry has been elected for a second five-year term.

Parry's party NRP had unseated the Concerned Citizen's Movement in the July 10, 2006 Island Assembly election, winning three seats then as well.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas recently visited Nevis to congratulate Premier Parry and the NRP.

"I would like to congratulate Premier Parry and the people of Nevis who went out to the polls in free, fair and peaceful elections to exercise their democratic right.

"I wish Premier Parry and his administration much success in their second five-year term in charting the national development of Nevis in collaboration with the Federal Government of St. Kitts under the Prime Minister-ship of Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas," Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams said on Wednesday.

...

Philipsburg:--- Former Democratic Party Advisor Julian Rollocks submitted several declarations and receipts to show that he invested over fifty thousand dollars in the Border Point Project which he is trying to recover from the Talking Drum Foundation. The four page document were among stacks of receipts from several hardware stores and persons in the community who claimed they were paid by Rollocks for their services such as security guards, cleaners, construction workers and an electrician.
Avril Gumbs provided a declaration claiming that Rollocks gave her $1,500 to hold a Bar B Que for the senior citizens on the opening day of Border Point. Another key person that the defense lawyer may call as a witness in this case is Elvis Patrick who declared that he was paid $14,301.60 for construction work and material that he purchased to construct the properties at Border Point. Patrick also declared he was the main contractor for the Border Point Project.
The list has Cecil Richards who claimed he was paid $410.00, Darrius Grant $2,620.00 as a construction worker, Darren Grant $1,055.00, Shane Johnson $595.00, Devon Gardener $350.00, Hugh Wilson $2,275.00, Joan Haynes $1,575.00, Bernard Bazil $2,859.00, George Hughes $2,470.00. Most of the persons who provided Rollocks with declarations claimed they were paid by one Cindy Charles.
In the petition, Rollocks asked the court to place a lien on Talking Drum Foundation. Rollocks based his claim on the finding of the judge's ruling on April 9th 2010 that stated that Talking Drum should repay Rollocks the $33,332.92. Rollocks submitted affidavits and the receipts to support his claim that he invested $24,301.00 in labour and $14,302.00 in material for the project. In addition, Rollocks is claiming US$11,550 for fees and advisory services his company, BD consultancy provided to the foundation. In total therefore, he is claiming US$50,158.60. The additional charges are for court fees which amount to $65,206.18.
Rollocks requested that the court place a lien on Talking Drum's bank account at the Windward Islands Bank and also on the rent due from four tenants: M. Hildevert, O. Augustine, L. Dormoy and D. Richardson. His attorneys have promised the court to provide more and better documentation for Rollocks' claims in subsequent filings.

Attorney at law Wim Van Sambeek said last year when he represented Cimmerian Marlin in the court of First Instance he met with several of the tenants who told him that Rollocks did not invest any of his monies to build the booths at Border Point and that they all invested their own monies. Van Sambeek said the tenants told him that they gave Rollocks their receipts when he told them that they had to give him the receipts so that government could reimburse them for the buildings they erected at Border Point. "Rollocks was working with the Democratic Party at the time and he was instrumental in getting government to give over Border Point to the Talking Drum Foundation so he managed to coerce the tenants into believing that if they give him copies of their receipts then he will have government reimburse them. But Rollocks is now using those receipts for his personal gain," Van Sambeek said.
Van Sambeek will be representing Cimmerian Marlin again since Marlin said he never collected any rents from the tenants at Border Point. Talking Drum Foundation does not have monies since the tenants claimed they are not making monies due to the poor economy on St. Maarten said Talking Drum President Cimmerian Marlin.
Rollocks and his lawyers also served the Tenants on Friday last week informing them that they should no longer be pay their rents to Talking Drum Foundation but instead the rents should be paid into an account which will be managed by his attorneys until the outcome of the case.
Cimmerian Marlin also confirmed to SMN News that Rollocks had a notary prepare some documents for him to sign. Marlin said earlier this year Rollocks wanted to have the economic rights of Border Point be turned over to him. He basically wanted the same thing he took me to court for and lost, Marlin said.

Click here to view the summons served to Cimmerian Marlin.

Miss St. Maarten Senior Carnival Queen Trumane Trotman will face a daunting task when she represents St. Maarten in the Jaycees Caribbean Queen Show on July 29 in Antigua. One of the most prestigious pageants in the Caribbean, it will feature 17 contestants, including St. Maarten.

With three pageants on the horizon, Trumane has to delegate time and focus on preparing on Jaycees pageant and leave the other preparations to her chaperones and handlers of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF).

Following the Jaycees, she competes in Jamaica for the Miss Global International Pageant in September, followed by the Miss Humanity Pageant in October in Barbados.

But first up is the Jaycees in about two weeks. Her chaperones are two former queens, Lavinia Marsham and Dorothy Radjouki. She anticipates competing against young women who takes pageantry very seriously and who views the Jaycees pageant in particular as a "must win".

The SCDF assured however, that in Trumane St. Maarten has a very strong candidates, a positive and uplifting candidate who will represent her country to the best of her abilities. "We will also ensure that she is as prepared as possible for this event," the SCDF said.

The other countries participating in the Jaycees pageant are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, BVI, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Trinidad

"Attending various pageants, regionally and internationally, while informing individuals of what my integrated, friendly country St. Maarten has to offer, is one of the many things I look forward to doing in my reign. I am proud to have been afforded this opportunity to represent my country and also look forward to my country supporting me," Trumane said.

Belvedere:--- Former Democratic Party advisor Julian Rollocks is once again in the news with his half brother Cimmeran Marlin. SMN News has been reliably informed that Rollocks placed a lien on the Border Point properties which is managed by his half brother's foundation, Talking Drum. The source said Rollocks also placed a lien on the accounts of Talking Drum Foundation.
SMN News was also reliably informed that Rollocks was also trying to get Marlin to give him full authorization to manage Border Point some months ago. The source said Rollocks had a notary draft all the necessary documents but Marlin never accompanied him to the notary's office to sign off on the deal.
Well placed sources say Cimmeran Marlin was served on Friday. According to our sources, the new developments has left Cimmeran Marlin in shock since Julian Rollocks lost the case he initiated on March 15, 2010 against the Talking Drum Foundation. Last year March, Rollocks was ordered to hand over all the monies he collected on behalf of Talking Drum as well as all documents he had in his possession that relates to Talking Drum and Border Point Properties. On April 9th 2010, the judge in his ruling prohibited Rollocks from acting as a representative of the foundation, while giving Rollocks one week to turn over all documents, contracts and sub-contracts to Cimmeran Marlin.
However, the judge did not make a clear ruling on how Rollocks and Marlin should hammer out their dispute on the alleged claim that Rollocks made on his investment in the properties. The judge said back then that based on the letter to Rollocks by Talking Drum pertaining to the investments, Rollocks must substantiate his investment claims if a settlement is to be reached between the foundation and Rollocks. Rollocks had filed his claim on March 15 2010 but two days after the hearing Rollocks sent a cashier's cheque to the treasurer of the Talking Drum Foundation, Franklin Brison. At that time, Cimmeran Marlin said the cheque of $20,475, which the foundation received from Rollocks did not cover all the monies he Rollocks collected on behalf of the foundation. Rollocks also apologized to the foundation for having his brother sign a contract with him which would allow him to benefit 60% from the Border Point income.
SMN News learnt that Attorney at law Andre Kraaienhof of Gibson law firm represented Rollocks in this recent hearing. When contacted by SMN News on Monday, Rollocks said he could not comment on the case at this time.
Cimmeran Marlin confirmed that the bailiff Karl Arndell gave him the notification of the lien. Marlin said he does not know when the case will be called, he said all the booth holders at Border Point were also notified. It should be noted that the Government of St. Maarten granted the lease of Border Point to Cimmeran Marlin, founder of Talking Drum Foundation.

Philipsburg:--- The draft amendment of the civil code which was submitted to Parliament by the National Alliance was still not sent to the Council of Advice officially confirmed vice chairperson of the council Mavis Brooks Solomon. SMN News contacted Solomon on Tuesday for clarification on the issue. Brooks Solomon said the General Secretary of Parliament sent a copy of the draft to the Council of Advice on July 12, 2011. "The law states that the Chair of Parliament must sign the documents they are looking for advice on before sending it to the council. The copy we received is unofficial because it was signed by the General Secretary of Parliament and not by the Chairlady," Brooks Solomon explained.
The draft was submitted to Parliament almost seven weeks ago. Brooks-Solomon said unless the Council of Advice receives a signed copy from the Chairlady of Parliament then the council cannot process the document.
The Vice Chair also verified that they only received the un-official draft after the leader of the National Alliance William Marlin queried on the status of the draft amendment. Marlin spoke out against this last week when he held a press conference. However, the Chairlady of Parliament told reporters that the draft amendment of the civil code was submitted since July 11, 2011.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding residents to take measures to prevent mosquito breeding especially after intermittent showers that the island has been experiencing over the past two weeks.

The Caribbean region will see a frequency in weather related systems bringing rain showers.

Proper control measures need to be in place around homes and businesses to reduce breeding of the Ades Aegypti mosquito which is mostly found in domestic environments as a result of human activity and has the potential to transmit dengue fever.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults. If you experience fever, body aches, headache, severe pain behind the eyes, consult your physician and check your surroundings to ensure that no breeding source is present.

Clear stagnant water in old tires and other types of debris in yards can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

CPS is therefore advising residents to take immediate measures after rain events to make sure there is no clear/clean stagnant water in their yards and disposing of responsibly old tires, empty drums, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.

An increase in the mosquito populations puts residents at risk. In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these covered. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquito breeding.

To avoid being bitten by a mosquito, use repellent and wear long sleeve shirts/blouses as well as pants. Place screens at windows, doors.

The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is asking all promoters interested in a concert night for Carnival 2012 to submit his or her request in writing before August 15, 2011.

Letters can be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and should include the chamber of commerce registration of the promotional company, civil registry registration of the individual promoter, genre of music the promoter is interested in featuring, artists (if available). Request letters can also be dropped off at the offices of The Daily Herald to the attention of Secretary of the SCDF Mike Granger.

The granting of concert nights on the official Carnival schedule is the sole discretion of the SCDF. All requests will be evaluated based on a number of aspects including (but not limited to) past working history with the SCDF and nights will be awarded and allotted as the SCDF deems feasible on the Carnival 2012 schedule.

Requests submitted after August 15 will not be considered. The SCDF expects to have four international concerts on the Carnival 2012 schedule which will run from April 19 to May 2, 2012.

Marigot/Great Bay:--- Dr. Rene Baly and Dr. Rhoda Arrindell are the scheduled guests on Conscious Lyrics radio magazine this weekend, said Shujah Reiph, host/producer of the program.
The program will focus on the views, policies, and practices of the two St. Martin educators on education, language, literacy, and working tips to students and parents on how to develop and maintain a positive self-esteem to achieve academically, said Reiph.
"We need to motivate and encourage our kids on the importance of reading," said Dr. Baly as a point that he plans to share some interesting ideas about. As a public school principal in Florida, USA, Baly has taught for 10 years and has worked as an administrator for 15 years.
"Literacy gives our children, our young men and women, in fact it gives us all more confidence to achieve at all levels in life," said Dr. Baly. Last June Dr. Baly conducted the youth literacy workshop at the 9th annual St. Martin Book Fair.
Dr. Rhoda Arrindell will talk about her findings on language, culture, and identity in St. Martin, which are further discussed in her doctorial dissertation.
Arrindell, just months into her first term as the Minister of Education of St. Martin (South), successfully defended her doctoral dissertation in linguistics at the University of Puerto Rico in May 2011. She will also give some details about the identity survey she conducted and the history of the St. Martin language, said Reiph.
Part one of the program will air on SOS Radio 95.9 FM, Saturday, July 16, from 12 noon to 1 pm. Part two will be the Conscious Lyrics Radio on Radio Soualiga 99.9 FM, Sunday, July 17, at 12:30 pm.

Cole Bay:--- Member of Parliament Louie Laviest and his two siblings are mourning the loss of their mother Mrs. Jane Laveist (71) who passed away around 5:30am on Monday morning confirmed Member of Parliament Louie Laviest. Laveist said his mother was ailing from rheumatoid arthritis for almost 15 years now, but her health conditions he said deteriorated these past months.
The late Mrs. Jane Laviest leaves to mourn her three children Juliana Laveist, Louie Laveist and Dorothy Laveist Duporte. She also leaves to mourn her three caretakers: Orlene, Annette and Sandra as well as Norma and Beryl her former care takers.
The Laveist family is busy preparing the funeral arrangements for their mother which is likely to take place on Friday at the Methodist Church in Cole Bay.

Philipsburg:--- As the cooperation between the French and Dutch side intensives Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said 157 persons (residents of French St. Martin) have applied for the renewal of their Drivers Licenses which was granted on the Dutch side of the island. The Prime Minister said even though she indicated in her letter to the President of the Collectivity that these special licenses will be valid for a period of one year she wants to re-iterate to the license holders that they cannot renew their licenses when it expires.
The governments of both sides came to an agreement where the Dutch side would renew the licenses so that the holders can then take their valid driver's license and have it transferred to a French Drivers License. The Prime Minister said she made the announcement to make sure there is no misunderstanding when the licenses expires since drivers licenses on the Dutch side are normally valid for a period of five years.
The Prime Minister also explained that after the meeting of the two sides on Friday last week, contact was made after the meeting to establish proper communication lines especially during emergencies (hurricanes).
The Prime Minister said one of the main concerns of the Dutch side is communication between the two sides during emergencies. She said right now as things stand they do not who to ask what during hurricanes and that she said was established shortly after Friday's meeting. The Prime Minister said the French state has certain responsibilities when it comes to disaster management and that was not clearly understood by the Dutch side. The Prime Minister said one of the decisions that were taken by Disaster Management is to grant hurricane passes to businesses and establishments that are on the Dutch side.
Prime Minister Wescot Williams said that there is cooperation between the two sides but the French State is insisting that some sort of structure be put in place. She said that there are several areas that have effects on citizens on both sides of the island which falls under the responsibility of the State and not the local government on the French side.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- On Saturday the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated placing the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) on high alert for the approaching weather system.

The next phase for the EOC, will be the Prime Minister calling a meeting of the core group of the ESFs to discuss national preparations. The Cabinet of the Governor is closely monitoring the progress of the system as well as the Dutch Military.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is strongly advising the population to continue to monitor the progress of the approaching Tropical Wave (TW) system which could be upgraded to either a Tropical Depression or Tropical Storm today. The system also has the potential to become a hurricane.

The system is located over 600 miles away East of the Eastern Caribbean island chain out in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center out of Miami, tropical storm watches or warnings would likely be required later today. The Center is also sending an aircraft to investigate the system later this afternoon.

The ODM will continue to closely monitor this system for possible further development and the public will be duly informed.

The public is being asked to welcome home St. Maarten's Special Olympics (SO) athletes by being present at Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) today, Tuesday, July 5 at 11:00am, when the athletes are scheduled to return after their successful participation in the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens, Greece.

The eleven athletes have captured a number of medals. Full details of their performance will be provided at the airport on Tuesday.

The games ran from June 25 – July 4. Athletes were drawn from the Prins Willem Alexander School for Special Education (PWAS), Sr. Basilia Center and St. Maarten Vocational Training School. They participated in three of the 24 areas: track and field (racing, shot put and long jump), swimming and bocce.

Representing St. Maarten in track and field were Linda Richardson and Milinda Rogers from the Sr. Basilia Center; Katiana Pierre and Joseph Fidanque from Prins Willem Alexander School and Stefano Gordon and Jivana Claxton from the St. Maarten Vocational Training School. Willemijn Verloop and Roger Jeffers of the Sr. Basilia Center and Jivanta Claxton and Nathan Mollineau from the Prins Willem Alexander School (PWAS) competed in swimming while Albert Arrindell from the Sr. Basilia Center competed in bocce.

Athletes were accompanied by five coaches (Les Brown, , Antroy Cleghorn, Isha Marlin and Debby Rombley), Head of Delegation (HOD) Special Olympics Foundation St. Maarten(SOSM) Secretary Loyola Seymonson and one Assistant Head of Delegation (Asst. HOD) Greta Mathew.

An estimated 7,500 Special Olympics Athletes from 185 nations competed in 22 Olympic-type sports at the international event. The games are held every four years in a different nation.

Other members of the St. Maarten Special Olympics Board are: Lisandra Havertong (Treasurer and Vice President); Les Brown (Sports Director); Loyola Seymonson (Secretary); Joycelyn Patrick (Parent liaison); Willemijn Verloop (Athlete representative); Brigitte Halley (Prins Willem Alexander School Coordinator) and Greta Mathew (Sr. Basilia Center Coordinator).

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Honourable Minister of Plenipotentiary Mathias Voges on Saturday, July 2nd attended Curacao Flag and National Anthem Day celebrations in Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

Minister Voges attended on behalf of the people and Government of Sint Maarten.

Mayor of Nijmegen Tom de Graaf (a former Dutch Secretary of State for Kingdom Relations) and the Ministers of Plenipotentiary of Curacao and Aruba were also present for the celebration.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Dr. Marcia de Castro, Resident Representative and United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday. (DCOMM Photo)

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Collective Preventive Services (CPS), executing agency of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, will be carrying out a random telephone survey with respect to its Health Observance Calendar.

The survey will be carried out during the month of July and will start on Friday, July 8. Telephone calls will be made from Monday to Friday from 5.00pm to 8.30pm and on Saturday 1:00pm to 4:00pm.

Participants will be randomly selected.

The public is being asked for their cooperation with respect to the survey.

The Health Observance Calendar is used to promote particular health issues or topics during a specific identified period in the year.

The topics selected are based on the importance of issues within the community as indicated in the results of the health survey; the occurrence or development of an event with a burden to society; and/or issues as indicated by health organizations internationally, regionally or nationally.

Simpson Bay:--- The Tenant's Association of Pelican Resort Club's (TAPRC) Special General Meetings, held simultaneously at Simpson Bay Resort & Marina and online via www.simpsonbayresort.com on July 8 and July 11, 2011, concluded with the election of a new TAPRC Board and removal of the previous Board.

Newly elected Board Members include Arthur D'Italia, a retired U.S. judge who will serve as the Board's Chairman, as well as Vice Chair Barry Glassman, Treasurer Debra Partick, Secretary William K. Soule, and Member at Large Lynn M. Cunningham.

In a statement issued to the TAPRC's full membership, the new Board said: "As newly elected members of the TAPRC Board, we look forward to representing your interests. Our goals as a board will be to assure that the resort is operated efficiently, that high standards of quality are maintained, and that the interests of timeshare owners are considered paramount. In the coming weeks, we plan to share with you the specific issues facing TAPRC and the resort and our plans to address them. We are optimistic that the resort has a bright future and that the acrimony of the recent past will soon be behind us."

The July 8 and July 11 Special General Meetings were broadcast live via streaming video to approximately 400 online attendees in addition to nearly 100 attendees who participated onsite. Over 3,500 TAPRC members tuned in to www.simpsonbayresort.com on July 11, which is approximately six times the normal amount of daily visits received by the website.

Members can view the recorded July 11, 2011 Special General Meetings online at www.simpsonbayresort.com. Members with any questions may also contact resort staff toll-free at 1-800-791-4416 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Bridgetown, BARBADOS:--- Following on strong regional growth and success in the past three years, CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank has renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Caribbean Association of Youth Business Programmes, providing financial support and mentorship for the roll-out of micro-enterprise assistance throughout the region.

Under the terms of the MOU signed recently at CIBC FirstCaribbean's Headquarters at Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados, the Barbados Youth Business Trust will continue in its role as the lead Programme with responsibility for fund management, sharing best practices, driving the start-up of new programmes and assisting with brand quality.

Signing the MOU which runs for three years from 2011 to 2013 and which is worth
US $ 340 000 to the Caribbean Group of Youth Business Programmes, were Executive Chairman of CIBC FirstCaribbean, Mr. Michael Mansoor, and Chairman of the Barbados Youth Business Trust, Mr. David Clarke who signed on behalf of the Caribbean Association of Youth Business Programmes.

In his comments, Mr. Mansoor congratulated the BYBT for its role noting it was anticipated that the funding made available through the CIBC FirstCaribbean Comtrust Foundation would allow for increased development of micro-enterprises throughout the region.

"CIBC FirstCaribbean remains committed to providing support for this programme across the region both financially and through mentorship of these young entrepreneurs; and we look forward to deepening our relationship with BYBT and the other Trusts in the region as we work together to further develop this area of economic development that is so vital to our region's success," said Mr. Mansoor.

Expressing his sincere gratitude on behalf of the region's young entrepreneurs, Mr. Clarke said significant gains had been made since the signing of the first MOU in 2008, for which much of the credit had to go to CIBC FirstCaribbean.

"When the first MOU was signed three years ago, the accredited Trusts in the Youth Business International network were Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana, and Belize. Since signing the MOU we have been able to get the Dominica Trust accredited, the Jamaica Trust has just completed their accreditation exercise and it is expected that they will receive their accreditation very soon this year. So we have moved from having four accredited Trusts to six accredited Trusts. We had no Trusts in St. Vincent, St. Lucia or Antigua, but we now have pilot programmes running in those countries, and we hope that by end of this new MOU we have moved from six to ten accredited Trusts," Mr. Clarke said.

Noting that BYBT, which was registered in 1994, and started operations two years later, was a founding member of Youth Business International, and the third country in the world to adopt that model, Mr. Clarke said BYBT with the support of CIBC FirstCaribbean was well placed to lead in the development of the Caribbean group of youth business trusts. He said they hoped to replicate the Barbados experience in the other territories.

"The Trust in Barbados has put around 500 young people in employment in the last 10 years, who would not have had that opportunity, because we are providing business mentoring support, and providing some finance to get them operational. So there are a lot of young people who are not eligible for the banking sector, and we help them from that stage. It's a partnership where we help to make them more bankable so they can move on to the next phase of lending agencies."

Many successful businesses know that customer retention is the key to success and it is for that reason that NAGICO Insurances has teamed up with St. Maarten SuperHost to improve the quality of customer service that NAGICO offers to their clients.

St. Maarten SuperHost, provides customer-service training certification that consists of many different modules, and this will be offered to 40 employees of NAGICO.

Human Resource Officer of NAGICO, Esmeralda Maria says, "We are excited and looking forward to this Customer Service training as NAGICO is always looking for ways to improve the service we offer to our valued clients."

Tamara Leonard; Managing Director of SXM SuperHost and Project Manager Bertrand Peters signed the agreement at NAGICO's head office on Wednesday with Maria.

Peters also added that he too was thrilled about the up and coming venture with NAGICO and looks forward to the long-term benefits of the training.

SuperHost is a world-renowned brand with years of customers-service training experience. Its focus on the island of St. Maarten is to put the "Friendly" back into the "Friendly Island". The brand emphasizes the importance of satisfying one's customers. Over the next couple of weeks SuperHost will provide NAGICO employees with fundamental skills to improve their professionalism.

According to Leonard, she sees a vision for SuperHost where the brand is represented island wide as a standard for all businesses. "Tourism is a key part of the economy here on the island," she emphasized. "So by providing a stable foundation of customer-service knowledge; St. Maarten SuperHost will provide businesses such as NAGICO the components for future success."

Great Bay:--- The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is now registering youngsters interested in pursuing careers in the Hospitality industry. The Program offers courses such as Front Desk Agent, Bartender, Restaurant Server and Maintenance. Before being able to follow the hospitality program, candidates must successfully complete the preparatory program, which is set to begin this September.

The preparatory program is a four -month phase in the program where the students receive an introduction into the Hospitality field and focus on developing their social skills, computer skills and English reading and writing skills. Students must complete this phase of the program before moving on to the career courses that they have chosen. The main goal of the preparatory program is to provide the youngsters with not only the knowledge but also the social skills needed to succeed in the work place.

Registration will take place throughout the entire month of July. All you need to register is a copy of your St. Maarten identification (I.D.) card. Registration will be held at the Youth Development Program office upstairs of Carl and Son's Bakery on the Walter J Nisbeth Road in Philipsburg. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. For more information, please contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497 or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Youth Development Program is a second chance educational program, funded by USONA, for youngsters between 16 and 24 years who were unable to complete secondary education. With this program youngsters obtain the basic qualifications needed to enter the job market at an assistant's level or further their studies at the SBO/ASVE schools. The Youth Development Program is executed by the Division for Educational Innovations (DERPI) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs.

Philipsburg:--- From the 16th – 21st of July the St.Maarten Youth Beat Foundation will participate with 23 Youth Basketball Players to the NBA 76ers Summer Youth Basketball Camp in Philadelphia Pennsylvania.
The Delegation will leave St.Maarten on Thursday, 14th July and return on Friday, 22nd July 2011.
This camp will take place at the Prestigious Forge Valley Academy in Wayne Pennsylvinia.

The Youth Basketball Players that will participate are: Omari Serrant, Akim Serrant, Afredo Claxton-Gibbs, Rene Pierre-Louis, Jemmerio Wilson, Jason Davis, Rolando Carty, Ashielle Hodge, Nathan Bell, Wedson Richardson, Sheldon Richardson, Jonathan Philips, Daniel Philips, Alain Duzant, Cairon Herbert, Special Richardson, Shamiki Hodge, Triston Coffie, Malik Duporsoy, Arsenio Meyers.

There is also 4 athletes from Saba that will also form part of the delegation, they are: Mitchell Hassel, Shurandy Winfield, Myron Hassel and John Simmons
Parents, Family and Friends should be advised that the Delegation have arrived safely in Philadelphia Pennsylvania on Thursday afternoon.
The players will be participating in a friendly game on Friday afternoon against a 17 under youth team from the Philadelphia area.
It should be noted that negotiations is on the way to have the a branch of the NBA 76ers camps take place in St.Maarten during the summer of 2012. This will all happen after Camp and 76ers officials visit the island to assess the possibility and feasibility of having such a camp on St.Maarten

Cole Bay:--- United Peoples (UP) party Member of Parliament (MP) Jules James says climate change is predominant issue that is receiving global attention as well as national focus. MP James feels the issue also has to be broached at Government level with respect to the global changing phenomenon.
MP James, who attended a Parlatino Environment and Tourism Affairs Committee meeting in El Salvador back in June, says a presentation was made of the Report of the Working Group of the draft law on Glaciers.
There is dramatic evidence with respect to the loss of glaciers in Latin America due to climate change. The Andes and Patagonia Mountain Range in Argentina shows evidence of glacial retreat and reduction in areas covered by snow.
The glacial retreat and reduced water availability is a major concern for the Andean countries which account for 95 per cent of the world's tropical glaciers, which now cover an estimated area of 2,500km2 with 72 per cent located in Peru, 22 per cent in Bolivia, four per cent in Ecuador and three per cent in Colombia.
The Andean countries produce 10 per cent of the planet's water, which comes mainly from the high Andean eco-systems and glaciers. The loss of glaciers in the Andeas and the interference of sea water due to sea level rise will affect the availability of drinking water and may also affect agricultural production and tourism, according to the presentation that was made.
Parlatino delegates also spoke about the Regional Environment of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the need for States to enact laws on protecting the environment. Environmental management should reflect the environmental and developmental context and bearing in mind the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which aims to ensure environmental sustainability.
The aforementioned incorporates the principles of sustainable development into country policies and programs with the primary objective of reversing the loss of environmental resources. The conservation of eco-systems will help to preserve the latter for present and future generations.
"Sint Maarten also has to do its part. We have to protect what is left. I do believe the time is ripe for an environmental summit involving various stakeholders. We need to get their input on climate change issues as well.
"Our Caribbean brothers and sisters are also following developments closely. In the recently concluded 32nd Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) from June 30 to July 4 in St. Kitts & Nevis, the Heads of Government in their final communiqué agreed to establish a team of experts to draft a regional plan of action to guide regional negotiators within the fora of the United Nations 17th Climate Change Conference which will be held from November 28 to December 9 in South Africa.
"Countries from CARICOM have expressed hope that this round of negotiations would result in a balanced outcome which adequately addresses the issues core to the interests of the Caribbean Community. We also need to bring climate change discussions to the Kingdom level and this will also be addressed in my motion to parliament," United Peoples party MP Jules James said on Thursday.
The Parlatino committee meeting took place at the Sheraton Hotel in San Salvador, the capital of the Central American country of El Salvador. Some of the parliamentarians present who were representing their respective parliaments were, Aruba, Curacao, Venezuela, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, Paraguay, Panama, Honduras, Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Peru.

Adventist Hospital in Groot Davelaar shines purple and yellow in the beautiful Curaçao summer sun thanks to its fresh new paint, compliments of volunteers from the 429th Expeditionary Operations Squadron, located at the U.S. Forwarding Operating Location (USFOL). On Tuesday morning, June 21, 35 USFOL service members and employees of the Adventist Hospital spent the morning repainting the exterior walls of the hospital. In November 2010, the hospital suffered flood damage due to a severe storm in Curaçao. The hospital staff is very happy with the bright, new look and thanked the USFOL volunteers for helping the community. The Commander, Lt. Col. Richard J. Bailey Jr., Chaplain Capt. Denis Gueu and his Assistant, Msgt Adam Hurlburt, assisted the volunteers in accomplishing this task.
Mrs. Juliana, one of the representatives of the Adventist Hospitals stated, "We are extremely grateful you chose our hospital as a part of your community outreach endeavors. May God richly bless you all. We are very pleased with your great efforts and hope this project will not only help our patients but also inspire our whole community to participate in other community projects."

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the 14th anniversary ceremony of the Sint Maarten Voluntary Corps (VKS) on Saturday. The event also served as the commemoration the swearing in of an officer, and the promotion of officers and non-commissioned officers.

The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to congratulate those of the VKS who recently became certified shooting instructors.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister congratulated the VKS on their anniversary and on the accomplishments of the officers who were promoted for their dedication to the corps and their own advancement

Honorable Prime Minister Wescot-Williams described the VKS as a very dynamic and evolving institution, one which in 14-years of existence has firmly established its foot prints in the landscape of Sint Maarten.

"To keep that up, you need to have extra-ordinary qualities. You need to have extra-ordinary leadership. Both attributes have contributed to the successes of the VKS over the years.

"However, there is no time to rest on your laurels. The landscape of which you form part (safety, security and protection) is a critical one for the wellbeing of our community.

"The public expects of you to work out any legalities that might exist between the corps and institutions that work to protect our citizens. The public expects you to be there whenever needed," Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told the gathering which also included His Excellent Governor Eugene Holiday.

The Prime Minister in her concluding remarks stated the following: "This is the only way we are going to build country St. Maarten, by equipping ourselves with the necessary competencies, knowledge and training to paddle our own canoe.

"This is what I mean with the often stated mantra of "block by block, step by step." I congratulate you all on this anniversary and I encourage you to continue the building of the VKS and the country Sint Maarten.

"A thank you is also in order at this time to the family members of these men and women. Without whose support and encouragement, your accomplishments would have been more difficult and strenuous to achieve.

"You too, as family are building our country. Think of this, when sometimes I imagine you would feel, "but who comes first?" Remember, these men and women are called to protect and uphold.

"In today's world, temptations are plentiful and all around us. Stand strong, and true, to your oath of service. God bless you and our nation Sint Maarten."

The event also entailed a parade of uniformed groups, a church service followed by a reception. The VKS was established in 1997.

Philipsburg:--- President of Parliament drs. Gracita Arrindell said that the Legal and Legislation Department of the Government of Sint Maarten along with Parliament, will be working closely to get copies of the laws from the former Archives of the Netherlands Antilles.

In a recent meeting between the aforementioned Department and the Arrindell, the latter was briefed Head of the Department of Legal and Legislation Affairs Henk Jan Habermehl and legal specialist Nancy Joubert, that the department has some of the laws, but the majority is still in Curacao.

Parliament has a list of 65 laws that need to be handled from the former Netherlands Antilles. These laws are now applicable to the country.

The Parliamentary Secretariat led by Secretary General Jossy Semeleer will be working with the Legal and Legislation Department to set up a list of priority laws that should be copied and archived.

The seven government ministries also have to indicate their priorities with respect to legislation.

"Building up our national archives is part of the process of building country Sint Maarten. Having these laws in house will allow parliament's legal expertise to review and give advice to Members of Parliament with respect to which laws need to be revised.

"We have laws on the books that go as far back as the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. A lot has changed over the past 50-years and as MPs we have a responsibility to make sure that our laws are up to par with current trends in socio-economic development and in technology," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- On Tuesday Dr. Marcia de Castro, Resident Representative and United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), was officially welcomed by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams at the Government Administration Building.

Please to be informed that the A.T. illidge road intersecting with Middle Region will be re-opened on Wednesday morning July 13th as of 6:00 am.

The general contractor MNO-Vervat has been working around the clock for the past few days, making the connection from the main sewer line in Middle Region onto the sewage line alongside the A.T. illidge road leading to the Main Sewage plant.

Much appreciation grattitude goes out to MNO and it's staff in having these works completed in a timely manner.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Youth Health Care (YHC) has increased its skills to monitor Events Supposedly Attributed to Immunization and Vaccination (ESAVI).

YHC staff will be able to react to any national emergency with respect to vaccination related events. Staff learned in the ESAVI training how to react to situations that appear to be related to vaccinations, to avoid jeopardizing the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) and cause panic which may result in loss of confidence and trust.

Immediate action is required any time an ESAVI is suspected to have occurred. Not doing so may result in the population not wanting to be vaccinated anymore which in turn may cause outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases.

EPI includes all matters related to vaccination and immunization, from manufacturing, ordering, purchase, storage at the right temperature know as the cold chain, transport, usage, recording and discarding of used materials.

Everyone involved in any part of EPI must be aware of their responsibility and this includes also having basic knowledge on surveillance. Surveillance is the collection, analysis and monitoring of the incidence of communicable and non-communicable diseases.

The ESAVI training covered a diverse amount of information including history of vaccination on Sint Maarten, case studies, surveillance, the measles, rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) elimination and the role and importance of international organizations such as the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on the EPI program and a session on injecting practices.

Staff members were of the opinion that the training that took place in May was essential and necessary and that it should happen more often.

All nurses and administrative staff of YHC and the surveillance team from General Preventive Health in addition to two registered nurses from St. Eustatius took part in the ESAVI training.

Facilitators from abroad were Dr. Henriette Hooykaas, youth physician working at YHC Curacao and Dr. Malik Hashim from the Immunization division from the PAHO.

Local facilitators were Nurse B. Illidge from the Sint Maarten Medical Center, A. Jeffers, retired Registered Nurse of the vaccination program, E. de Weever, Epidemiologist and M. Henry, Acting Head of Collective Prevention Services. Dr. Hooykaas and Dr. Hashim also provided information to physicians and other healthcare workers.

The objective of the workshop was to increase skills, knowledge and insight into immunization and vaccination with specific emphasis on ESAVI and the need for all stakeholders of immunization and vaccination to be continuously vigilant.

Philipsburg/Sucker Garden:--- A resident of Sucker Garden whose home was broken into two Saturday's ago said police refused to arrest all the suspects and to retrieve the items the invaders stole from his home.
The victim approached SMN News inside the Philipsburg Police Station on Friday when he realized that the detective handling with his case was not serious and has no intention of solving the case. Noel Camble, said two Saturday's ago while he and his girlfriend was inside their apartment sleeping, some boys from the neighborhood entered his house and stole a number of items from them including his laptop which he managed to take back from one of the suspects. Camble said the thieves whom he knows well, stole monies, two gold chains, and three cellular phones. "When I caught the bandits with my laptop I called the police twice and they took a while before they responded to the scene and when they did, the boys who stole my belongings were inside an apartment next door and the officer refused to go inside to get back my stuff. He arrested one of the suspects who were outside but the others inside the apartment had my chains, phones and monies and the police officer refused to go after those guys. He promised me that I would get my things back that Monday. I have been coming to the Police Station ever since and I am being told the detective handling my case went on vacation," Camble explained.
The suspects, he said even took his girlfriend's bank card and they attempted to withdraw monies from her account but the ATM held the card after the third attempt. Reports from the bank and the Police were shown to SMN News on Friday as the victim attempted to get the attention of the Police.
The victim said the monies that were stolen from his house was to pay two month's rent and some other bills but now he owes his landlord for three months since was robbed.
Camble said they also stole his girlfriend's handbag that contained her bank card and identification card but police he said promised to get back his items since they know who the thieves are but to date he cannot see the detective neither get back his belongings. Police he said arrested one of the suspects and he had in his possession the monies and items stolen from his girl friend's bag but the suspect was eventually released. Camble said the detective even kept the monies and the items he found on the suspect saying he needs it for evidence.
Head of the Detective Department Denise Jacobs intervened in the case on Friday afternoon after the victim's interview with SMN News.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers, met on Wednesday RedJet's Robbie Burns, Business Development Director.

RedJet initiated the meeting to explore the possibility of flying to Sint Maarten from Barbados. A formal request has been made.

The Civil Aviation Authority will review the request and advise the minister accordingly.

Burns gave an overview of the markets that the airline flies too and the new markets that they are currently pursuing.

RedJet, founded in 2006, has been characterised as a low cost air carrier in the English-speaking Caribbean. The airline which is based in Barbados according to its website currently flies to Guyana and Jamaica.

Also attending the meeting was the Ministry of Tourism, Economic, Transport & Telecommunications Secretary General Miguel De Weever and Head of the Aviation and Maritime Department Louis Halley.

Pinel Island/Cul de Sac:--- Former councilor and member of the Grand Case Community Council Emile Larmonie is busy gathering signatures to protest against the demolition of the Key Restaurant on Pinel Island.
Larmonie is the supporting the investors who took their life savings to invest in a restaurant on St. Martin where his sister was co-owner. Speaking to reporters on Sunday Larmonie said he will be forming a local Elcappe to defend the rights of the Saint Martin people as well as the right of the owners of the Key Restaurant. Larmonie said the battle with the Key Restaurant started in 2007 and recently, he read in the news that his sister Leonie Larmonie who is no longer owner or gerant of the LCM got condemned to pay a fine of Euros 9,000.00 while she must also demolish the Key Restaurant. Emile Larmonie said his sister did not pay the fine and she has thrown it on the company even though she is the one who initiated the court case. Larmonie said the court ruled that Leonie Larmonie has to pay Euros 50.00 for each day she does not comply with the decision of the court. "While Leonie Larmonie has nothing to do with the Key and a court case was going on, the owners were never notified. Everything went to Leonie's lawyer and these people who are operating the Key only found out what is happening through the newspapers."
Owner of the Key Restaurant, Catherine Randazzo said that she paid the Reserve Naturalle for over one year Euros 4,000.00 per month to operate at Pinel Island while the other two restaurants never paid. She further explained that the Reserve sent her to the President of the Collectivity to request a building permit for the restaurant that is already built and operational.
"The Reserve Naturalle was collecting this money from me while they did not give me an AOT. They said for them to give that document I must have a building permit and the person who could grant us one is the President of the COM. I went to see him with Mr. Larmonie and the President told us he cannot grant us a building permit since Pinel Island is part of the Natural Reserve, we asked the President for his explanation in writing which he gave us and we gave it to the Reserve and we stopped paying them since we do not have an AOT," Randazzo said.
Randazzo said when she was constructing the Key Restaurant they "Leonie Larmonie and the other shareholders submitted a request for a building permit and the building was built based on the guidelines of the authorities. She said they intended to build two floors but government told them they could not do that. We have a pizza oven that is installed at the restaurant and we cannot use it because we could not build the second floor. Government was even telling us we could not have a roof but then we were told that if we did not put on a roof we will not get the building permit. We built this restaurant the way government wanted us to build it because the request was in for the building permit. Now they are saying that they will not grant us the building permit because Pinel Island is part of the Reserve," Randazzo said.

Architect Charged Euros 15,000.00 to Request Building Permit.

Catherine Randazzo said she acted on the advice of the COM and the Reserve Naturalle who told her that she needs to hire an architect to submit the documents for them to obtain a building permit. Those documents she said includes a building plan. The restaurant owner said she paid Jean Charles Barre, a registered architect on St. Martin Euros 15,000.00 to submit the request for the building permit. "This architect told me he knows people at Urbanism and COM and if I paid the Euros 15,000.00 I will get the building permit". Randazzo said she paid the monies and the request has been submitted but then she received a letter from the Collectivity that states that she needs "Authorization Prefectoral en Cours de Validite."
Randazzo and Larmonie said after receiving that letter they made several attempts to get an appointment to see the Prefet on the matter but to date they have not seen him. "We saw someone else at the Prefecture last week and he informed us that under no circumstances we will get the building permit and they will be demolishing the Key by the end of this month.
Randazzo said the Key Restaurant has nine persons (all locals) working there and her workers are fully insured with all benefits, besides that she pays all the taxes that are required by French laws and the monies are being collected even though the government is saying she is operating illegally. "When I don't pay on time they send the bailiff to collect the money, yet they are denying me the building permit. My workers are at their wits end because any day the government will put them out of a job when the tear down the Key."

Crem Productions will be hosting a full night of bouyon and Statia vibes with the pioneers of Bouyon, WCK out of Dominica, Rohie Ryddim out of St. Maarten and Statia's Very own Jamm Boyzz, hosted by PJD2 Statia Queen, Milouschka Euson on Friday July 29, 2011 at the Festival Village in Concordia, St. Eustatius.
"This is an exciting experience for the people of Statia and the growth of Summer Fest", commented Ms. Euson. "We are encouraging everyone to be a part of this fete and help us break new records in turn out for Statia Summer Fest", she continued.

The excitement kicks off at 8:00PM and continues straight into Jouvert Morning on Saturday July 30, at 3:00AM with a T-Shirt band featuring Rohie Ryddim live on the road. Tickets for the Crem De La Crem fete start at $30.00 dollars in advance and sell for $35.00 at the gate. The Jouvert T-Shirt Band T-shirts are on sale for $25.00 in advance, with all inclusive combo deals for only $50.00.

Crem Productions is hoping to attract visitors from neighboring islands to support and enjoy the Crem De La Crem fete and have arranged for ferry services and package deals from Saba, St. Kitss, and St. Maarten to St. Eustatius starting at $115.00 per person. Ferry Package Deals include return ferry service, Show and Jouvert Morning T-shirt band, other options are also available. Ferries depart Friday, july 29, 2011 at 5pm and return Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 11am. Check in time is 1 hour in advance. Limited space available, so please reserve your space in advance.
The featured bands are a first in collaboration for Statia and all hail from a musical history of culture and vibes! Charles Lindo, director of Tourism in St. Eustatius, tells visitors, "Feel the Heat WCK mashing up the village and Rohie Ryddim burning up the streets".
WCK Band formed in 1988, playing an experimental fusion of cadence-lypso with the island's jing ping sound. The result became known as bouyon, and has re-established Dominica in the field of popular music. Cadence-lypso was developed in the 1970s, and was the first style of Dominican music to find international acclaim, eventually becoming a part of styles like zouk.
Rohie Ryddim lead by Rohan (Rohie) Williams, lead Vocalist and Composer, is a hybrid of the many distinctive music genres like salsa, merengue, bachata, compas, zouk, soca, bouyon and kardass. By incorporating these genres together, Rohie Ryddim has created a new style of music, fusion, that is unique to the friendly island of St. Maarten. He is most popularly known for his hit "Closer Baby".
Jamm Boyzz Band started in 1996 when the founding members were just teenagers at high school. The Jamm Boyzz Band is an all-round Caribbean music band from St. Eustatius. The band plays Soca, Kompas, Zouk, Bouyon, Reggae, Dancehall, and a touch of Latin music. The band members went abroad to study after finishing high school but by the beginning of 2009 most of the members of Jamm Boyzz successfully completed their studies and returned home to Statia. Better than ever Jamm Boyzz are ready for you!
"We wanted to create an event to remember in St. Eustatius", stated Clara "Crem" Mathew. "We hope to see everyone come out and have a good time as we have many surprises in store, as well as prizes to be won".

More information on Ferry Schedules and package deals are available on www.facebook.com/cremproductions. You can also call +599-542-1491 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Madam President,
Honorable Members of Parliament,
Colleagues in the Council of Ministers,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

According to Benjamin Franklin "The only thing more expensive than education is ignorance." This famous quote has been modernized to read: "If you think education is expensive, try ignorance." What this simply means is that no investment in education is too much. Conversely, we see how expensive it becomes not to focus on quality education. Just think of the social and economic problems our youth who do not make it through our education system face and sometimes even create for the larger population. I am sure none of us would cherish the idea of having to choose between building more prisons or more schools. But that is the choice we are faced with when our education system fails our youth.
Madam President, permit me to offer Parliament my own definition of education, which I gave at the retreat my Ministry held at the beginning of the year. I defined education in its broadest sense as "any experience that forms the mind, character or affects the physical ability of a person. It is the process by which society consciously and deliberately transmits its accumulated knowledge, skills and values from one generation to another. Education, therefore, whether formal or informal, academic or vocational, is the process of preparing an individual to become an independent, useful, and valued member of a society."
However, there is a difference between education and schooling. Thomas Moore makes this distinction very evident when he said, "One of the greatest problems of our time is that many are schooled but few are educated." My goal as Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs is for the many to be educated, while only a few, if at all, would be schooled.
Hence, our mission as ministry of education is "to deliver service to the population of St. Martin in all areas under our jurisdiction by providing and ensuring the implementation of effective and efficient systems which promote and secure equal opportunities and access to quality education, recreation, social, cultural and physical development for all the people of St. Martin."
Madam President, I had outlined some specific short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals for my ministry, derived from the definition of education I just offered. Since we are dealing with the budget of 2011, I will mention only the short-term goals we hope to achieve within this first year.
These are:

• Continuing the implementation of Compulsory Education and reducing the school drop-out rate
• Improving teacher performance and professionalism
• Improving the overall learning environment
• Finalizing current education law proposals, including the law on tertiary education
• Establishing MOUs with providers of higher education so that there is continuity for students
• Promoting studying in the region
• Reorganizing the Ministry to reflect the current vision for Education, Culture, Sports and Youth
• Starting the process of upgrading the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex
• Creating a professional website for the Ministry with daily updates
• Launching the "Get off the Block, Get on the Bus, Get Busy" (GB3) youth project.
• Creating National Debating Teams and organizing Literary Competitions.
• Establishing special programs for special needs students
• Creating science and inventor circles in our schools
• And establishing "Language Clubs" in the schools.

Madame President, you might ask why "Language Clubs"? This is because this ties in with the long-term goal of achieving "linguistic versatility." By this I mean that every graduate of secondary school on St. Martin should be able to speak, write, and communicate fluently in three to four international languages – English, Dutch, French, and Spanish. The enormous potential this would unleash in terms of a multi-lingual work force can only be imagined at the moment.

How many of these goals have been achieved so far and what is the cost of the total package? I can safely inform Parliament, Madam President, that although we are only half-way through the year, most of these goals are already in the process of being met or have in fact, been met.

The Compulsory Education campaign, I can report, was a success. Information sessions were held in town-hall style meetings in the various districts of the island. The implementation of this law is, of course, an on-going process. I wish to hereby commend the staff of my Ministry, in particular, the Division of Educational Innovations, DERPI, for the professional manner in which the campaign was executed. I also want to congratulate the winners of the Compulsory Education poster contest, Rheanne Arrindell of Oranje School and Tatiana Lionel of the MAC Browlia Maillard Campus.

Also, Madame President, just a few hours ago, I had the honor and privilege of signing an MOU with Monroe College, which will open up new possibilities for St. Martin students to pursue degree courses at this institution with campuses in New York and St. Lucia. While in St. Martin, the Monroe College delegation will be meeting with officials of USM as well as our Minister of Justice and members of his cabinet to further discuss areas of cooperation.

Addressing the concerns of the honorable MPs Dr. Lloyd Richardson, William Marlin, and Jules James regarding the issues at the University of St. Martin, I say the following:
Promoting studying in the region is not only dictated by budgetary considerations – it is cheaper while several of the institutions of higher learning offer world-class education – it is also a recognition of the fact that as a Caribbean people, our destiny lies within this region. The more of our students who we can encourage to study in the Caribbean, the more we would be enhancing that destiny.

Naturally, USM will continue to receive the attention it deserves as our island's premier institution of higher education. Just a couple of weeks ago, 55 students graduated from USM, the largest number in its little over 20 years existence. The confusion that preceded the Commencement Ceremonies has been clearly laid to rest: all the graduates received their diplomas and degrees duly signed by the President of the University, who has the authority to do so. However, not all is well with USM. The institution seems to be perennially strapped for cash and we are working with the board and management to seek a structural solution to its financial woes.

As I told the graduating class of 2011, I believe USM has a pivotal role in the development of St. Martin into a progressive, vibrant, modern-day society, with a thriving economy whose commanding heights are in the hands of our own people. I am also a product of USM. It is through USM that I obtained my Masters degree. I have a vested interest in its success and I am committed to ensuring this success with everyone involved assuming their respective responsibilities and doing their own share.

My ministry is currently working very closely with USM to help it through these challenging times. USM, I must stress, can and should be a center of academic excellence that attracts students and faculty from far and near, but always remaining relevant to the needs of St. Martin.

I agree that University of St. Martin should be accredited. In recognition of that need, the island government assisted USM in seconding one of its staff members, who USM assigned the task of accreditation officer. That was five years ago, and I imagine that USM will soon be able to reap the benefits of those efforts. Another step in the accreditation process is recognition of the university by government, which could not have happened prior to October 2010 because there was no legal framework for this. In the meantime, USM has submitted a request to be recognized at the entity authorized to grant Bachelor of Arts degrees in education. For that to happen, it is normal international standards that the program be evaluated. USM has agreed to such an evaluation, and an agency, recommended by government, has been identified to carry out the evaluation, and USM has agreed to pursue further discussion with the agency. I have not received updated information from USM on the status of this evaluation, for which government has agreed to pay half of the cost.

With regard to MP the Honorable Dr. Lloyd Richardson's remarks about cuts in scholarship, I am happy to inform Parliament that there were no cuts in study financing to study at USM. In fact, the amount, 4.2 million guilders in ongoing study financing and 5 million in new financing, has remained unchanged.

To the MP's suggestion to give instructions to USM to become accredited, I submit that USM is not a state university; it is privately-owned institution, run by a foundation. Because of this, government cannot give USM any instructions. These must come from the supervisory board.

With regard to MP William Marlin's comments on the signing of diplomas at USM, Madam President, I submit that I could not have changed my mind because I was never asked to sign the diplomas or degrees. In addition to the request to recognize the USM TEP program, I received a letter from USM, dated April 14, 2011, requesting me to hand over the diplomas to the TEP graduates. The fact is that in our system, ministers do not sign diplomas issued by the University. That authority lies with the president of the University and the dean of academic affairs.

Like everyone else, I am happy that the class of 2011, many of whom I taught, were able to successfully graduate. However, I humbly submit to the Members of Parliament that not everything you read in the media or hear on radio talk shows is necessarily the truth.

With regard to MPs William Marlin and Franz Richardson's comments on the Rebounce program: as the Honorable MP William Marlin stated in his presentation, there are no statistics to support his claims on the program. I believe that in these times of financial constraints any proliferation of similar programs and unnecessary duplication of efforts, which could lead to waste of scarce financial resources, should be avoided. The GB3 project was conceived as a comprehensive answer to the issue of at-risk youth. Government has begun a pilot project which should be completed at the end of this week, and once the report has been evaluated, we will know how to proceed with these efforts. Any request for subsidy for programs such as Rebounce will be viewed in this context.

Concerning the funding for sports facilities, I inform Parliament that there is NAF 74,000.00 budgeted for maintenance of the swimming pool at Raoul Illidge Sports Complex and another 236,000.00 to defray other expenses, such as electricity and water. For the LB Scott Sports Facility, there is 30,000.00 for maintenance and another 144,000.00 for other expenses for all sports facilities.

With regard to the participation of candidates in the management training course for educators, I inform Parliament that each school board was approached with the request to submit a list of members of their staff they would suggest to attend the management course, and the school boards submitted names of persons already management positions and those who they believed had the potential for managerial positions. As for the appointment of school managers, I (the Minister of Education) have not appointed any new school managers. In fact, I have not yet received the staffing plan for the 2011-2012 school year, but I understand it is in the final stages of preparation, and should be submitted to me by next week.

With regard the MP's suggestion to approach the Dutch with a request to apply a similar exemption granted to non-EU nationals to non-Dutch St. Martin residents, I suggest that maybe this is an issue for Members of Parliament to take up in a debate.

As far as I know, the only known report paid for by Dutch funds is the NA-CSI report of 2009 (attached), which included a chapter (4) on the USM TEP program. The Financial and Administrative Audit of USM report (attached), commissioned by the Executive Council of the Island Territory of St. Martin, by letter of September 13, 2010, also deals with the education program, but so far only a preliminary report has been prepared and made available to government. The final report is still pending. I am sure if the honorable MP Marlin is in possession of another report, he would be happy to share it with me.

In response to the honorable MP Roy Marlin's question about government providing incentives for students to return to St. Martin after their studies, I submit that this is not something for government alone. Government is already doing its part in terms of attracting qualified graduates to fill vacant positions in government. However, I believe the private sector also has to step up to the plate by offering incentives geared St. Martin graduates, not just in the Netherlands, but abroad in general.

I share the concerns of the honorable MP Johan Leonard about the precarious state of affairs with our young men and boys, whom I refer to as endangered species. This is precisely why the GB3 project was started. It was after the project started that we realized that we had to also include the girls and young women on the block. The GB3 project has a strong emphasis on education and (re)training, including vocational education. But I believe that this must be done in a way that our people can live in dignity. As the saying goes, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."

Closing
Madam President, this is the time of the year when our students prepare to leave the island to pursue higher studies abroad. I am sure Parliament would be interested to know that the Study Financing Committee has concluded its work and submitted its report to me for review and approval. The Committee received a total of 273 applicants for Study Financing this year. Out of this number, 107 are for Holland, 90 for North America (US and Canada), 36 for Curacao and 26 for St. Martin (USM). The successful candidates for Study Financing will be informed accordingly by next week.

Let me turn attention to the field of culture. In terms of return on investment, no other area does as well as culture. Our cultural workers have consistently done us proud, despite the limited financial support they receive not only from government but from the private sector as well. The recent demonstrations in The Netherlands over drastic cuts in the budget for culture shows how important people over there take culture.

We have just witnessed the successful 9th Annual St. Martin Book Fair, organized by Conscious Lyrics Foundation, House of Nehesi Publishers in conjunction with the University of St. Martin and in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. The Book Fair attracted none other than Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, whose mother was born on our island and who is related to some members of this august body and of government. Very few countries in the Caribbean can boast of having a Book Fair, and even fewer can beat their chests and say that a Nobel Laureate participated in their Book Fair. I wish to once again, commend the excellent work the organizers of the Book Fair have been doing.

Three books by St. Martin authors–Drisana Deborah Jack and Lasana Sekou—published by House of Nehesi will be used at universities in the United States, including Yale this coming semester. This is the mark of the quality of literary work produced on St. Martin, by St. Martiners. We cannot allow them to continue to face the kind of excruciating financial circumstances which many of them labor under. We have to put our money where our mouth is. Madam President, it is therefore my intention to return to Parliament soon to ask for approval to increase our allocations for culture in the 2012 budget.

This is a matter of national urgency. We all rejoice and are proud of the exploits of Nicole de Weever, who is starring in the hit Broadway musical FELA! which is now on a world tour. We are similarly proud of other Nicoles in the making like 10-year old Jeremiah David, and 14-year old Diofanny Diaz, both of the Imbali Center, for their incredible feat in winning gold and bronze in their respective categories at the recently concluded Confederation Nationale de Danse Concour National 2011 dance competition in Amiens, France.
In like manner, the whole island is full of praise for Isidore York, "The Mighty Dow," for being inducted recently into the Hall of Fame and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award in Trinidad. Dow is a professional to the core, who has shown that commitment and dedication to one's calling has its rewards.
As we continue to forge forward in our efforts at building a new St. Martin nation, I humbly submit, Madam President, that we can only succeed if we make culture its strong foundation, its solid rock. Anything less, anything else, would be shifting sands.
It is in view of this that I decided to offer the 2011 Carnival Queen full scholarship to study at USM. As a matter of policy, government shall be offering similar scholarships in the fields of culture, and sports.
Madam President, in a couple of days it will be July 1st, Emancipation Day. You may recall that during the budget debate in Parliament in December last year, I disclosed that it is one of my priorities to ensure that Emancipation Day becomes a National Public Holiday. Practically all the honorable Members of Parliament expressed support for this at the time.
The process to realize it began shortly after and the Council of Ministers approved it over two months ago. Since then, the draft law has been going through the formal procedure and route and I can inform you that we are now in the final stages before it is brought before Parliament.
Recognizing that a day as important as July 1st cannot remain just another day on the calendar for St. Martiners, the Council of Ministers has decided to grant all government workers the day off this Friday to celebrate Emancipation Day.
Parliament, through your good offices, Madam President, will also convene an Extraordinary Plenary Session to mark Emancipation Day. I note with great satisfaction that we are all on the same page in terms of acknowledging the historical weight and relevance of July 1st, and its significance for our collective self-esteem and dignity, as well as the transformative cultural process it has unleashed. This includes claiming the full measure of freedom fought for and won as of 1848 for the whole of St. Martin.
Madam President, at a Tripartite meeting I held recently with representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the SHTA, and of the Chamber of Labour Unions I sought their support and urged them to grant their workers the day off either partially or in full this July 1st. They will, I hope, announce their decisions on this soon.
Where it concerns sports, Madam President, 2011 can be described as a year of planning. I am sure I need not remind you that I am a sportswoman and as such I am aware of the critical need for the upgrading of our sports facilities and a complete overhaul and revamping of our sports policy. I have a very important meeting with the Youth and Sports department tomorrow and another one with all sports stakeholders on July 14 to seek ways and means to bring our sports to the level it deserves.
I have been busy trying to separate the Department of Youth and Sports to create two independent departments so that each can focus better on their respective tasks.
Madam President, my vision for sports development on St. Martin does not embrace the notion of competing for competing sake. We can produce world beaters like St. Kitts, Curacao and other Caribbean countries. To do so, we have to ensure that sports become an integral part of our school curriculum. We have to train our trainers so they could become professionals in their fields. We have to re-organize sports administration to allow for more frequent and better-structured competitions. And of course, we must provide better and well-maintained facilities that meet international standards. This is the direction I want to take sports on St. Martin. We will get there only by proper planning and working together. Taking sports to the next level is a debt we owe our youth; it is a debt we cannot afford to default on.
Speaking about our youth, Madam President, this year we embarked on an ambitious project called "Get off the block, Get on the Bus, Get Busy" or GB-3. I have had the opportunity to make a presentation of this project to Parliament and I am very grateful for the popular support the project has been enjoying since it was launched. As I said before, GB-3 is a pilot project. By the end of this week, I expect to receive a report on how it has fared so far. We will then be able to determine how to tweak it, and make it meet its original goals.
Madam President, experts stress that investment in our youth and in education is the way to go in this 21st Century. We have to invest wisely and we must expect and demand satisfactory returns on our investment. However, if we fail to invest, we would be investing in our failure.
Let me conclude, Madam President, with the same Benjamin Franklin paraphrase I started with: "If you think education is expensive, try ignorance."
I thank you.

Representatives of Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten traveled to Paris and Den Haag for introductory meetings with representatives of French and Dutch Telecommunication regulators for open discussions on general topics such as: cooperation, spectrum and numbering matters.
The meeting with the French counter parts had a strong focus on cooperation with regards to spectrum  monitoring, allocation and allotment. The meetings with the Dutch counter parts and representatives of the Ministry of Economic Affairs where more focused on: numbering matters, (due to the impending migration to North American Numbering Plan), division of codes for telecom and maritime industries
and cooperation as it relates to legislation, policy and practical execution of agreements.
BTP representatives also met with OPTA, the Telecommunications Regulatory body of the Netherlands to establish cooperation and support in the areas of numbering administration, Internet safety, and consumer affairs.
A meeting was also conducted with GOVCERT.NL, the Cyber Security and Incident Response Team of the government of the Netherlands. In this meeting support and cooperation in the establishment of a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) for St. Maarten were discussed.
Interim director of Bureau Telecommunication and Post, Mrs. Peggy-Ann Brandon summarized these meetings as: "being informative with an open exchange of views. The basis has being created for close and substantive cooperation between parties aiming at overall improvement of Telecommunications on the island and between the islands".

Philipsburg:--- Parliament will have a very busy schedule after the recess which started on July 1st. Members of Parliament (MPs) will return to work in the week of August 8.

President of Parliament drs. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday that a number of meetings that were planned for June did not materialize due to a number of other matters that had to be dealt with related to parliament.

"Meetings that were tentatively set for June will now be scheduled for the months of August, September and October.

"They are very important subjects that MPs should receive information about and then draft a plan of action for follow-up.

"We also have the opening of the new parliamentary year mid-September," Arrindell said on Sunday.

Information gathering sessions will be planned with and about the Development Bank of the Netherlands Antilles (OBNA), Point Blanche Inmates Association, National Disaster Preparedness, Public Transportation and Road Safety, Environmental Organizations, the Territorial Council of the Collectivite of St. Martin, Timeshare Sector, Crime and the United Task Force Against Crime, Stakeholders with respect to the revision of Labour Laws, and Human Smuggling, Slavery, Domestic and Family Violence.

The aforementioned will be assigned to either a Central Committee meeting or permanent committee sessions. Arrindell pointed out that it all depended on the issue at hand.

"With respect to the Point Blanche Prison Association, in this case the permanent committee for Justice will meet with the association members at the prison facility.

"The Central Committee, comprising of all MPs will meet with the Territorial Council of St. Martin. It is very important that MPs from the South side of the island meet their colleagues from the North side and exchange contacts and also plan regular meeting sessions, perhaps every quarter to discuss issues that impact both sides of the island.

"I believe closer dialogue and communication is essential in resolving issues that could blow up due to the lack of the aforementioned. We need to work closer together.

"The Council of Ministers will be meeting with the Executive Council of St. Martin headed by President Frantz Gumbs in the first week of July and we hope we can meet the Territorial Council in August. We will then have established the relevant structural links at both levels of Government," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell concluded.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- On Wednesday afternoon Ombudsman Nilda Arduin-Lynch and her Curacao colleague Ombudsman Alba Martijn, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency (HE) Acting Governor Reynold Groeneveldt. Arduin-Lynch also used the opportunity to present the Ombudsman Annual Report.

HE Acting Governor Groeneveldt told DCOMM that he had a very positive exchange on the institution of the Ombudsman and how Curacao can assist Sint Maarten's institution in its development. Also present at the meeting was the Acting Director of the Cabinet of the Governor Reinoud Pronk.

Philipsburg:--- A female prison guard identified as Alexandria Sutton was arrested on Thursday morning by the 'Landsrecherche'. Public Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh confirmed the arrest of the female prison officer.
The Federal Detectives are busy investigating the disappearance of $1,232.00, monies that belonged to an inmate that was released during a weekend in May 2011.
The 'Landsrecherche' previously arrested Roland Lake (another prison guard) on Monday but subsequently released him on Tuesday. Lake remains a suspect in the investigation.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Honourable Minister of Plenipotentiary Mathias Voges on Thursday received a courtesy visit from Commander of the Royal Marechaussee, Lt. General D. van Putten. Van Putten also presented a gift to Minister Voges.

Philipsburg:--- Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte and Inspector Rudolph Bloeiman of the Police Department represented St. Maarten at the 21st Las Americas Regional Interpol Conference in Aruba.
The Regional Conference is held every two years and Peter de Witte, in his previous position as Chief of Police of Aruba brought that conference to Aruba. The Las Americas Region includes countries of South, North and Central America as well as Caribbean that are represented. At the conference, the most pious of all are those that threatens the regional security such as, drugs trafficking, firearms, cyber crime, terrorism, and other current issues are discussed and information are exchanged.
Prior to 10-10-10 the Interpol Agency was based on Curacao, and serviced Curacao, Bonaire and Sint Maarten. Outside of the overcrowded program, there were, with the support of Justice Minister Duncan, talks about an independent Interpol agency for St. Maarten. These talks also included a personal conversation between the Police Chief Peter de Witte and the Secretary General Mr. Noble and his staff.
The talks were very positive. All preparations between the Secretary General of Interpol, the office of the Minister of Justice and the KPSM will be made to make a proposal for an independent Interpol agency at the Police Force of Sint Maarten at the general
assembly which will be held in October / November 2011.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Minister of Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges on Monday met with Project Coordinator and Manager of the International Office of the City of Amsterdam Arnold van den Broek, to discuss the cooperation agreement between the aforementioned city and Sint Maarten.

The agreement was for the period 2007-2010. During the meeting at the Cabinet of the Minister of Plenipotentiary in The Hague, Voges and Van den Broek discussed the evaluation of the aforementioned cooperation agreement.

The possibility of renewing the cooperation between the City and country Sint Maarten was also a point of discussion since the agreement ceased to exist as of October 10, 2010.

Minister Voges will draft a report on the meeting and forward it to the Prime Minister. The Minister told the Department of Communication (DCOMM) in order to have a new agreement between the city of Amsterdam and Sint Maarten, the different ministries would need to review what areas of cooperation they would like to see developed.

Van den Broek is familiar with the island since he worked as legal advisor in the Cabinet of the Lt. Governor several years ago.

Also attending the meeting was Director of the Minister's Cabinet Cornelius James.

Starting Thursday July 14, 2011 The Law in Focus will broadcast a three part series on the Bureau Ombudsman in conversation with Mrs. Alba Martijn, Ombudsman of Curacao.
Learn more about how Bureau Ombudsman can be of assistance to you in case of a complaint against the government and its administration. Comparing notes and informing the public on the filing of complaints and procedures followed to reach a judgment when a complaint is filed with Bureau Ombudsman are among others topics that are being discussed.
"The Law in Focus" is an informative and educational program for the entire family, aired every Thursday night from 9.30 – 10.00 p.m. on Sint Maarten T.V., Channel 15, with rebroadcasts on the Wednesdays following from 6.00 - 6.30 p.m., on Sundays from 4:00-4:30 pm on Radio Soualiga 99.9 FM, on Mondays on Cable TV Saba and Tuesdays on Cable TV Statia from 7.00 – 7.30 p.m. The program is aired on Statia radio on Tuesdays at 12.30 noon with a repeat on Sundays at 6.00 p.m., and on Channel 9, MSR Cable TV on French Saint Martin. The public is encouraged to send questions on legal issues to Email: lawinfocus@ burofocus.com or Fax # 5473754.

Philipsburg:--- The General Secretary of Parliament Josef Semeleer is yet to send the Draft Amendment of the Civil Code to the Council of Advice which was submitted to Parliament some six weeks ago by the National Alliance faction says leader of the National Alliance William Marlin.
Marlin said earlier this week he checked with the Council of Advice to see if they submitted their advice of the draft amendment on the civil code which is to curb the abuse of the short term contracts but he was surprised to learn that while the council of advice heard of the piece of legislation they are yet to receive it.
Marlin said he contacted the General Secretary of Parliament Josef Semeleer for an explanation as to why the draft amendment was not sent over to the Council of Advice and the general secretary informed him that the document has to pass through the central committee before it can go to the Council of Advice.
Currently, parliament is on recess. However, the leader of the National Alliance said he intends to send an official letter to the Chairlady and General Secretary as soon as Parliament resumes.
Marlin it made clear that each and every Member of Parliament has his or her right to submit legislations and if those legislations have to go to the Central Committee then that would stifle the faction or Member of Parliament who submitted the legislation.

Great Bay (GIS)--- As of 2 pm today, July 14, the LB Scott road from the Mary's Fancy intersection onwards until the Arbutus road (second bridge, entering Saunders) will be closed off.

Emergency services and residents will be the only ones allowed through this section.

Inbound motorists will be rerouted via Mary's Fancy, Betty Estate, Saunders, and Ebenezer.

Once the works at the LB Scott road / Arbutus intersection are completed, the inbound traffic to St. Peters/ South Reward etc. will then have the option to access the LB Scott rd from the Arbutus road and beyond.

Outbound traffic from St. Peters / South reward / surrounding area will have to follow the detour through Ebenezer / Betty's Estate / Saunders to Coralita road or accessing the LB Scott road via the Mary's Fancy intersection onwards.

The traffic will be monitored very closely and the necessary adjustments made where needed to simplify the flow of inbound and outbound traffic.

However, in the event of heavy rain, the possibility exists to open the road inbound on LB Scott road to prevent congestion, at the crucial points in Betty's Estate and Ebenezer. Outbound motorists will still be required to use the outbound detour.

Philipsburg:--- "The Prison renovations are not on hold and I need to set the record straight because I read in one of the Daily Newspapers that I have placed the renovations on hold, I would like to know who told the reporter that," said Minister of Justice Roland Duncan in an interview with SMN News on Friday.
The Minister said he needs to renovate several of the cell blocks and the only way to do that is to take the prisoners out of the prison. Minister Duncan said he has made provisions for the prisoners to sleep at the Simpson Bay outpost at night while they will be transported in the day to the Pointe Blanche Prison where they would eat and have their recreation.
The Minister said he would need extra security to have that done but he does not see any problems in executing his plans. Minister Duncan said people can be critical but at the same time they also need to be realistic in solving the problems at the Pointe Blanche Prison. He said he has no choice but to repair the cell blocks and the only way to do so is to take the prisoners out. "If anyone else has a better plan than the one I have they can let me know and I will gladly follow their plan," Minister Duncan said.
When asked how he intends to transport the prisoners from Pointe Blanche to Simpson Bay every day, the Minister said he has armored vehicles as well as adequate security and buses in place. He called on the public not to panic since the necessary measures will be taken to secure everyone's interests.

Checkmate Security Guards --- "I have serious problems with Prison Guards but no complaints about Security Guards."

As for the hiring of Checkmate Security Guards who are assisting in manning the prison Minister Duncan said when he took office he met Checkmate at the prison. "Checkmate Security Guards have been working at the Prison close to five years now and since taking office I have not received any complaints about them." He said he recently received a long list of complaints from the Prison Inmate Association and there is nothing in that list about the private security guards.
The Minister said if anyone has any information on the Checkmate Security Guards then they should approach him with it so he can deal with the matter adequately. Minister Duncan said when he took office he met the contract of the Central Government and he simply cannot go and change the contract haphazardly.
The Justice Minister said he discussed the issue of security at the prison on more than one occasion. He said thus far he has dealt with the matter of extra security while he also dealt with matters relating to improper behavior from civil servants (Prison Guards). "Right now the Prosecutors Office has two Prison Guards as suspects of a robbery which took place at the Pointe Blanche Prison. We also have items such as drugs, cellular phones and weapons that are passed on to prisoners which are a serious security breach that I have to deal with." The Justice Minister said he is asking the members of the public which includes the unions to give him an opportunity to do his job. The Minister said he met with a member of the union Keturah Brown to discuss some of the issues relating to Prison Guards such as absenteeism. He said the union told him he needs to deal with the problem and intends to do just that. "I might have to end up dismissing some of the Prison Guards who are always absent from work. I would also have to deal with those guards who are breaching security at the prison which I believe the union must address because I will deal with it also. We are recruiting new people and I don't want to put to new employees in the wrong environment."

Philipsburg:--- Members of the French Executive Council consisting of President Frantz Gumbs, Daniel Gibbs, Claire Javois-Fermin, Louis Jeffry, Alain Richardson, Aline Hanson and Melissa Sedano from the Senator's cabinet along with several advisors attended a joint meeting organized between the two sides on Friday.
The delegation met with five members of the Council of Ministers in the A.C Wathey Legislative Hall. Representing the Council of Ministers were Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Minister of Economic Affairs Franklin Meyers, Minister of Education Rhoda Arrindell, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and Minister of Health and Labour Cornelius De Weever. Absent were the Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto and Deputy Prime Minister Theo Heyliger both of whom are off island.
The meeting held on Friday was the first since the Dutch side of St. Maarten attained its new status. As such, the Council of Ministers with the assistance of its department of communication put together a video to show their French counterparts the new structure under which the Dutch side operates.
The two sides discussed several areas of cooperation including the establishing of the "Mixte Committee" which both Holland and France is forcing local authorities here to establish.
SMN News learnt that the political heads on both sides have decided that neither Holland or France would decide how cooperation takes place on St. Martin/St. Maarten. The source said the meeting was very productive as several issues regarding cooperation were discussed. The source further explained that emphasis was placed on the "Mixte Committee" which they plan to work on but more emphasis was placed on how St. Maarten/St. Martin will decide independently on the level of cooperation.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications Hon. Franklin Meyers, on Friday was introduced to the new staff members of the Department of Civil Aviation and Maritime Affairs, Section Civil Aviation.

The persons hired are experienced in their field of expertise. A person with a legal background is to be hired as of August 1 and the department is currently in the process of hiring two more inspectors, for Flight Operations and Security.

Philipsburg:--- During the past weeks, the police department has noticed an increase in car thefts. Therefore they are urging vehicle owners to be more vigilant when parking their vehicles.

Acting Police Spokesman Geronimo Juliet reported that on Friday unknown persons stole a Toyota Corolla (1995) that was parked on Roses Road opposite Cake House. A mechanic in the area told police that the vehicle was not in working condition and the owner had taken the vehicle to his garage for it to be repaired.

In an unrelated case, a woman filed a complaint with the detective department claiming that she parked her vehicle a white Daihatsu Charade (M-6384) on Welfare Road and unknown persons entered the car and stole her valuables. The woman also told police that she left her keys inside the ignition while she went to get her friend.

A man reported to police that while he was exercising at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex, unknown persons broke into his Hyundai pick-up truck and stole his cellular phone and a black and white Phillips DVD player.

Juliet said the detective department is also busy investigating a case of suspected arson of a car that was parked in the Central Bank parking lot on Friday. The acting police spokesman said the owner of the vehicle while walking towards the parking lot she noticed smoke emanating from the area but she thought that someone was busy with a Bar B Que. However, as the woman got closer she noticed the smoke and fire was coming from her rental jeep a Hyundai Tucson, while a Red Toyota was also on fire. Juliet said the fire department managed to put the fire out, however, police suspected foul play as part of UTS building was also damaged.

In unrelated case the, detective department is busy investigating the robbery of Hot Spot Bar on Bush Road. Unknown persons forced the side door open with a hard object and they stole Tel Cell top cards valued  at $200.00.

Police Investigating Ill-treatment Cases.

A man was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center on Saturday for medical treatment to wounds he sustained when he was ill-treated by another man with two rocks reported acting police spokesman Geronimo Juliet. Juliet said the victim almost got bitten by a dog and he reacted by throwing a stone at the dog. The police spokesman said the owner of the dog got upset and he attacked the victim by throwing two rocks at him injuring the man. Police arrested the owner of the dog and took him to the Philipsburg Police Station.

In another case of ill-treatment, a young woman filed an official complaint with police. She told police that while walking on Back Street in the vicinity of Photo Gumbs another woman whom she identified as C.H from French Quarter attacked her. The woman she said bit her on her eye brow. C.H also pulled a scissors at her but she managed to escape by jumping into a bus.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) is calling on the population to monitor a Tropical Wave (TW) system that was on Friday afternoon located over 1000 miles East-South-East of the Eastern Caribbean island chain out in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center out of Miami, the TW shows signs of organization and environmental conditions are conducive for gradual development over the next few days.

The TW is moving West-ward to West-Northwestward at 15 to 20 miles per hour.

The ODM will be closely monitoring this system for possible further development.

Residents should use the weekend to review hurricane season preparations.

Households, business-owners and contractors should have made the necessary preparations and these should be in place.

The ODM has been recommending about preparing for the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season since mid-May and throughout the months of June and July.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Boat owners are being advised to plan ahead and early so they can be ready to take action in the event of a storm/hurricane threat to the island during the 2011 hurricane season.

Hurricane forecasters have warned that the 2011 hurricane season will be a busy one and three systems to date have already formed. With the start of the peak months from mid-August and September up to mid-October just three weeks away, preparation is essential in order not to be caught off guard.

The Office of Disaster Management & Preparedness hereby advises mariners to ask themselves, "How have you prepared yourself for the hurricane season?"

Hurricanes have been the cause of many maritime disasters. Constant monitoring of hurricane potential and continual risk analysis when used with some fundamental guidelines become the basic tools to minimize a hurricanes' impact to vessels at sea or in port.

Systems that are forecast to make landfall within 50-100 nautical miles of a particular port tend to be more destructive than those that approach the port from over land or parallel the coast in the vicinity of the port. Also, ports located in the right front quadrant, based on direction of movement of hurricanes during landfall tend to have higher winds, seas, and storm surge.

The decision to leave port for hurricane avoidance must be made very clearly. Consideration to the latest safe departure time and likely avoidance routes must be balanced with a number of other factors. Most important of these is time versus distance.

The risk of damage to a vessel at sea increases as the motion of the hurricane increases towards the maximum safe speed of the vessel attempting to leave port in advance of that system.

Considerations to remain in port during hurricane passage must include an evaluation of the amount of protection afforded by the port. The direction from which the strongest winds are forecast to blow along with the potential for storm surge must be factored in when deciding whether to seek haven pier side or at anchorage.

In response to an article that appeared in the Daily Herald last week regarding pensioners receiving their pension funds late, Management of the SZV and of the Windward Islands Bank Ltd. have come together to find ways to improve the service given to the Pensioners.

The intention is to have SZV pay all pension funds via WIB Online Banking Services where the monies will reach the accounts of pensioners on the same day of the transfer.
A savings account will be opened for all pensioners that don't have a savings account at WIB for this purpose. This increases the possibilities of the pensioners to choose which ever WIB branch he or she prefers to go to for withdrawal of the funds.
Also, an ATM card will be provided to all that don't have one as this gives pensioners another possibility where they can withdraw funds via WIB ATM's.

...

Philipsburg:--- Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food production systems in the world, with the bulk of its output currently being within developing countries, and with expectations for aquaculture to continue its contributions to food security and poverty alleviation.

Recently President of Parliament drs. Gracita Arrindell was invited to visit the home of local businessman Johnny Bosch who has his own aquaculture principle-based farm producing tilapia fish, herbs and vegetables.

"I was very impressed with this small scale of aquaculture principle-based and this is the wave of the future for country Sint Maarten when it comes to our nation's food security. Our people want safe and chemical and preservative free healthy food. We are all aware of the recent outbreak of E-coli in Germany possibly related to bean sprouts.

"The new wave of agriculture must be given a chance. It has the potential to create employment and generate wealth and contribute to sustainable economic growth. This new wave of agriculture would be based on exploiting the inter-sectoral linkages within the tourism sector," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said.

Arrindell added that Sint Maarten could be a regional source of safe and healthy foods.

The vast majority of aquaculture practices around the world have been pursued with significant nutritional and social benefits, and generally with little or no environmental costs, according to the Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Aquaponics, also known as the integration of hydroponics with agriculture, is a bio-integrated system that links re-circulating aquaculture with hydroponic vegetable, flower or herb production into a bio-integrated food production system.

Recent advances by researchers and growers alike have turned aquaponics into a working model of sustainable food production.

The system used by Johnny Bosh is aquaponics. Bosch has been producing his own herbs since October. Bosch says he always wanted to have a small greenhouse, but now it has grown. He currently supplies two restaurants with lettuce, basil and parsley.

Bosch last year attended a course in St. Croix along with three others related to aquaponics etc. After he returned, he started developing his greenhouse.

Aquaponics helps production agriculture meet its goals of sustainability by following certain principles: waste products of one system serve as food or fuel for a second biological system.

The integration of fish and plants is a type of polyculture that increases diversity and thereby enhances system stability; biological water filtration removes nutrients from water before it leaves the system; and the sale of products generates income which supports the local economy.

Arrindell adds that alternative growers such as Joselyn Richardson and Rash Bushman need support and recognition for what they do.

"The Development Bank of the Netherlands Antilles (OBNA) has an agriculture division and that could be tapped for funding for the development of aquaponics on the island," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell noted.

Volunteering at the animal shelter was "a different animal altogether"! USFOL volunteers are familiar with helping communities in Curacao, including painting hospitals and churches, cleaning up baseball fields, reefs and beaches, and making a vegetable garden for a local orphanage. Bathing dogs, removing hundreds of ticks and cleaning kennels was a completely new, but rewarding, project.
On 30 June 2011, 35 volunteers from USFOL visited the Dierenbescherming Animal Shelter for the second time. Airman Kourtney Westmoreland of the USFOL, working with the chaplain office, helped raise 1200 NAF and bought eight bags of food for the animals. The director, Mrs. Gwendolyn Weber, received these gifts with thanks and gratitude. With tears in her eyes, she stated "You have been incredible with your lifesaving gifts—we do not receive subsidies from agencies. Your gift is a real blessing to us and to the animals."

Philipsburg:--- Recently Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers, was briefed about the Inspectorate of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) that falls under his ministry.

The Inspectorate's primary focus will be on policy issues and offer advice to organizations on matters involving agriculture, livestock and fisheries development.

The objectives and core tasks of Inspectorate LVV will be to protect the flora and fauna of the country; to develop the local agricultural based industry; to develop markets for locally produced meat and meat products, plants and plant produce and locally harvested fish; and to work in cooperation with similar regional and international entities.

The Agriculture section will focus on legislation, policy development, land use policies, public awareness, agricultural stimulation, food security and safety and market development.

Livestock section will also focus on legislation and policy development, animal herd health and certification, abattoir/market, roaming animals, complaint handling and audits at the zoo.

The Fisheries section besides legislation and policy development, vessel registration, catch data/catch sites and delineation of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

"Government will be working closely with stakeholders to inform and to get their input with respect to the current state of affairs and the way forward with respect to agriculture, livestock and fisheries development," Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers said on Thursday.

The Inspectorate of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Office is located in the Savence Building (Yellow), Tamarinde Steeg #16C on the Pondfill which houses various government offices such as Public Works and the Building Inspections Department. The office can be reached at 542-4519.

Philipsburg:--- His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday and Minister of Finance Honourable Hiro Shigemoto signed into law the countries 2011 budget on July 7, 2011.

The Naf.420.916.597 million budget is Naf.23.526.328 million less than the one that was approved by Parliament on December 23, 2010. The amount at that time was Naf.444.442.925 million.

Out of the Naf.420 million guilder budget, close to Naf.120 million (Naf.119.435.771) will be capital investments.

Government will be allowed to borrow Naf.117.334.209 million guilders for 2011.

According to the Minister of Finance, the Financial Supervisory Committee CFT was waiting on two developments in order to finalize the handling and approval of any loan requests from the Government of Sint Maarten.

The first condition, the 2011 country budget had to be passed in Parliament and signed into law, and secondly, that the SOAB had to present a report about the collective sector of Sint Maarten as well as the calculation of the interest norm for Government and its collective sector.

The collective sector of Sint Maarten includes Government, the Foundation Upkeep Sports Facilities, Foundation of Government Buildings, the SZV as well as two other foundations.

The interest norm for 2011 has been calculated at approximately Naf.27.9 million of which the collective sector to date has interests costs totally Naf.12.9 million which in essence means that there is room for some Naf.15 million in interests costs within the collective sector.

"The SOAB finalized its report on July 4, 2011, and this should have been directly sent to the CFT. The Government of Sint Maarten is now waiting to hear how much longer it will take for the CFT to finalize the loan requests that Government has submitted for approval.

"There must be clear rules and regulations between all members of the collective sector and Government (Minister of Finance). Any borrowing of monies will require the prior approval of the Minister of Finance and this matter will be addressed by my person with the various foundations and entities which fall under the collective sector of Sint Maarten," Minister of Finance Hon. Hiro Shigemoto said on Sunday.

Cupecoy:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise presented their new board for the year 2011-2012 at a fundraising dinner held at Porto Cupecoy's Café Maximo on Saturday July 2, 2011 in the presence of the Assistant District Governor, Jim Ferris, Presidents of the other St. Maarten Rotary Clubs, representatives of the Lions, friends and family.

Outgoing president Bernadette Davis thanked her fellow board members and the entire membership for their support and dedication during the past year. She looked back on a year with some real highlights and some disappointments: "the true essence of this Club is not so much about what has been successful and what hasn't, but our commitment to the ideals of service above self, the objectives of Rotary and our love for the St Maarten/St Martin community". Bernadette Davis acknowledged the hard work, caring and commitment towards this Island. The Club can be proud of delivering that state of the art 'Warm Bed' this year to the St Maarten Medical Center and encouraging our young people to embrace the love of books through the program 'Readers are Leaders'.

The outgoing president presented Pastor Adamus , Director of the Keys to Freedom Rehab Center and Jackie Morris, Care Teacher of the Sundial School with a "Service Above Self" award.
She also awarded Past Presidents and Charter members of the Club Irma Gumbs and Meredith Boekhoudt with a Paul Harris fellowship Award.

Assistant District Governor James Ferris inducted the incoming president, Hendrik-Jan van Ieperen, and wished him and his team of board members a successful Rotary Year 2011-2012. The new Rotary board consists of: President Hendrik-Jan van Ieperen, Vice-President/Service Projects Director Irma Gumbs, Secretary/President Elect Marcellia Henry, Treasurer Angela Gordon, Sergeant at Arms Anjenie Lachman, Membership Director Meredith Boekhoudt, Club Administration Director Cookie Bijlani, Public Relations Director Peter Dialani, Rotary Foundation Director Claret Connor.

This year the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise will be focusing its efforts towards a new ambitious project being undertaken to renovate the Simpson Bay Community Center. Also the successful projects of previous years will be continued such as 'Walk for Health' and 'Readers are Leaders'. In addition the Club will sponsor the establishment of an Interact Club at the Sundial School.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise thanked its sponsors for their support and the Rotarians and guests who made this event possible.

Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Restaurant Air Lekkerbek (near the Prince Bernhard Bridge) at 7:00AM to 8:00AM.

Philipsburg:--- Organizers of the annual poetry event Summer Speaks has announced the dates for the three nights of spoken word this July.
Lysanne Charles, event founder and coordinator, said that this year's Summer Speaks will be held on Wednesdays, July 13, 20, 27, from 7:30-10pm at Taloula's Mango on the Boardwalk. She explained that while the venue had changed, the format for the event had basically stayed the same, retaining the original goals.
"The motivation behind Summer Speaks in its entirety is to provide young St. Maarten poets with a venue where their voices and pieces can be heard. It also offers audiences the chance to come out and hear some of what is going on locally as it pertains to poetry and spoken word," Charles said.
This is the third year that the local event is being held and is once again in collaboration with Imbali Center for Creative Movement. Charles said that a variety of poets would grace each night's line-up, with the poets reading for about 10-12 minutes at intervals. According to Charles, the schedules for each night was strong and audiences were sure to be pleased with the material presented.
"This year for sure I'm going to miss some of the seasoned Summer Speaks poets, some who have gone abroad to further their education and others who are vacationing, still newer voices have been introduced this year and so I think we can expect great things," Charles said.
The first Wednesday will feature readings from Charles herself, along with Stephen "Stretch" Rodney, Jurnice Richardson, Nkosazana Illis, Anderson Percival and Peter Lake. Charles also said that audiences were in for a few surprises this year, but would not reveal what they were.
"Each night we're going to try and add a little extra to the line-up, to build on the strong foundations we've laid over the last few years. Summer Speaks is a work in progress though and every year we would like to see this event growing stronger and stronger."
"Especially important for me this year is the open mic part of each evening, which is intended for young and new poets to seize the mic and demonstrate what they have got. I know a lot of people may feel shy about presenting their work, but the open mic sessions at Summer Speaks provides the safe setting needed to explore and so I encourage all budding poets to come out and touch the mic," Charles said.
Charles encouraged the community to come out and support the local poets as they develop their art.
"Taloula Mango has been gracious enough to host us this year and we hope that the central location of town means that a lot more people will come out and join us and walk with their work," Charles asid. She said that parking for the event was available on the venue's rooftop.
Cost for admittance to the event is $15 per night, including one soft drink or juice and a variety of the restaurants appetizers or $35 for all 3 nights. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Pete's Photos, Van Dorp, Imbali Center for Creative Movement and by calling Charles at 586-1266.

Philipsburg:--- The female prison guard identified as Alexandria Sutton who was arrested last Thursday as a suspect in the disappearance of a prisoner's money at the Pointe Blanche Prison remains in custody confirmed Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh. Den Hartigh said Sutton was given an eight day extension in custody as the investigators from the Landsrecherché continue the investigation into the disappearance of $1,232.00 during the month of May 2011.
The prosecutor's office is expected to take a decision on Thursday as to whether the suspect will be taken before the judge of instruction on Friday for another eight day extension. On Monday July 4th 2011, the detectives arrested Roland Lake a male prison guard and he was released the following day but remains a suspect in the ongoing investigations.

Philipsburg:--- SMN News has been reliably informed that Windward Roads and Central Mix Concrete placed a lien on St. Maarten Concrete on Thursday. The source said the owner of St. Maarten Concrete Franklyn David owes the two companies close to $90,000.00 for concrete and other materials that he took from them for resale. SMN News further learnt that St. Maarten Concrete also owes BBW over $40,000.00 but that company has not taken legal action as yet.
The lien was placed on the company by Bailiff Karl Arndell. Efforts made to reach David for a comment on Friday proved futile.

The Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the Surinamese /Dutch theatre producer Archana Ramkhelawan are happy to announce that the tickets for the musical production "Camp Rock St. Maarten" will be on sale from 19th July 2011.

Tickets can be purchased at the library and Van Dorp Madame Estate. Prices are $10, - adults and $ 5, - children ages 4 to 12.
The musical production dates are Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th of August, 2011 at the Philipsburg Community and Cultural Center at 7pm.

Do come out and support the children of St. Maarten and the library's first musical production: "Camp Rock St. Maarten".

Pointe Blanche:--- The St. Maarten Harbor Holding Company is busy trying to find the necessary finances to repair pier 1 which is badly damaged due to constant hurricanes announced Deputy Prime Minister Theodore Heyliger. The Deputy Prime Minister said there is need for 10 million dollars to repair pier 1 before it collapses. Heyliger said that measures were taken to make sure there is no further damage but they need to get the monies to revamp the entire pier since that is the main pier that houses four cruise ships. Heyliger said the engineers did the assessment and they have determined that pier 1 has been severely damaged and they indicated that the entire top might have to be removed and replaced since the island would lose the entire pier should another major hurricane hit the island. He said should that happen it would be catastrophic for the business community and its economic activity. Heyliger said while the estimated cost might be 10 million dollars, that can increase to 15 million, this he said will be in conjunction with the loans they have with the cruise lines. Heyliger said while they are seeking the necessary finances, they are also looking for quality repairs to pier 1 so that St. Maarten would get more years out of its investment. The Minister said another aspect that is being explored is how St. Maarten would be able to keep its commitments with its cruise partners since they have signed a 20-year contract with these cruise lines.
The Minister said discussions will now have to take place to see how they could move forward with the much needed repairs. The engineers he said are also looking to see how they can carry out the necessary repair work since St. Maarten is already in its hurricane season.

Bishop & Mrs.David Bryan, International Global Director of the Church of God of Prophesy;
Bishop & Mrs. Clayton Martin, General Presbyter of the Caribbean and Oceanic Islands;
Bishop Winston Leith, National Overseer of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands;
Bishop & Mrs. Michael Greenaway, Regional Overseer of the Leeward Islands, French West Indies, Dominica & Suriname - Hosts of this Convention;
Bishop & Mrs. Glenville Ferris, Regional Presbyter;
Bishop & Mrs. Melroy Meade, Regional Presbyter;
The District Overseers.

Greetings.
Greetings to all the delegates, organizers and everyone assembled here for this regional Convention of the Church of God of Prophesy in the Leeward Islands, French West Indies, Dominica, and Suriname.
In particular, I greet all the young people gathered here this evening under the theme: "Youth in Pursuit of His Spirit."
Why, you may ask, are you supposed to pursue the Spirit?
Well, you don't have to look far to find the answer. It is right there, I believe, in the Convention theme itself: "Pursuing His Spirit for Renewed Vision and Growth." You are, therefore, to pursue the Spirit for "renewed vision and growth."
The Spirit of God is a creative force as we see in Genesis 1, verses 1 and 2: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters."
This is the beginning of creation. And the Spirit of God was right there. In fact, all was created through the Spirit: the heavens, the earth, the sun and the moon, the firmament and the stars, all the animals and plants, the fishes of the seas and man himself to whom He gave dominion over everything He had created.
In a different sense, St. Martin is at the beginning of its own creation. As young people, you are called to use that creative force of the Holy Spirit to fashion the St. Martin of your dreams; to build a new nation of God-loving, Spirit-filled people who will transform this land by their own example and go forth to shine their light on the whole world.
There is power also in the Spirit. Acts 1, verse 8 tells us "you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

It is a power to change the world, to shape it, to transform it one soul at a time. It is that power that St. Martin needs today to bring about the changes necessary for us to live up to the potential we have as a beacon of hope for the entire Caribbean.

Perhaps, I should let you into a little known fact about my own spiritual background. My mother raised me in the Church of God of Prophesy in Curacao. Any delegates from Curacao here? Of course, not, Curacao lies in the Windwards! Geographically, that is where it is located. We form part of the Leewards, but for some strange logic, we, that is, Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Martin, that were part of the now defunct Netherlands Antilles, are referred to as the Windward Islands. Somebody didn't get their bearings right. You see why you need to pursue the Spirit? For guidance, for knowledge, to be able to stay on the right path.

I like the word "pursue" in the theme for this Convention. It implies a search, a decisive quest, but it also signifies something else: to follow. You young people especially are prone to letting the spirit move you. In other words, we often abandon ourselves and allow ourselves to be led by lesser spirits, which invariably lead us into trouble.

But when you pursue the Spirit, you are sure not to be led astray; the Spirit never fails; it is a regenerative force that brings us to a place of renewal because it is His very presence that fills us and lifts us up.

I said earlier that St. Martin is in its own genesis. We have to create new institutions. We have to establish new organs. We have to build a new nation. When God created man He did so in His own image. In whose image do we want to build this new St. Martin we have to build virtually from scratch? Do you have a vision of the St. Martin you want to leave for your own children? Doesn't the Good Book say "my people perish for lack of vision"? Who can give you that vision? Pursue the Spirit and you will receive not only a new vision, your own spirit will be renewed as well.

It is my prayer that you will have a very successful, Spirit-filled Convention.
I thank you.

The Complaint Officer of the Bureau Ombudsman of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Ms. May Pastoors, was welcomed at the Princes Juliana International Airport on Saturday, July 23rd 2011, by the Secretary General Ms. Patricia Philips and Ms. Charleen Bell, Complaint Officer of the Bureau Ombudsman Sint Maarten.

Ms. Pastoors is on a two-week working visit on Sint Maarten which will center mainly on information exchange & training of the Complaint Officer of Bureau Ombudsman Sint Maarten on investigative methods and techniques, preparation of investigative plan, reviewing the evidence and reporting.

This exchange visit is being sponsored by USONA, the Dutch Funding Agency as one of the projects geared towards strengthening the High Colleges of State.

Cole Bay:--- United Peoples (UP) party Member of Parliament (MP) Jules James says he fully supports the initiative by the University of St. Martin (USM) to organize a Needs Assessment Summit for Thursday, July 28 with various stakeholders to assist with the development of a new strategic business plan.
Stakeholders that have been invited for the summit are the business sector, Government, the labour sector among others. USM's objective is to see how the University can foster a sustainable and synergistic partnership with the community.
"This summit is going to lead to a very good exchange of views and what additional roles USM can play in the development of our countries human resources.
"It should also help set the stage for all concerned parties to engage in meaningful dialogue focusing not only on current issues and achievements but also on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead especially under our new setting of country.
"One of the points that needs to be addressed is how far are universities changing and shaping our world? Here we look at nation-building, national needs-driven human resource development as well as the creation and advancement of new knowledge and opening up of new frontiers that can impact the socio-economic national development of our country.
"I hope all stakeholders will take part in the summit. I am looking forward to hearing about the positive outcome and reading the new strategic business plan once it has been compiled," United Peoples party MP Jules James said on Tuesday.

Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that it is a matter of enforcing the existing laws. The cost of living on St. Maarten is becoming more critical as time goes by. He says that he will continue to insist that taxes owed prior to 2005 be written off. He also insists that there is a need to amend the collection ordinance as soon as possible. He understands that taxes must be paid but the ordinance should more reflect the tax payer's ability to pay when it come to arrangements. The idea that the receiver's can put a lean threaten and take away or seize your home or walk into your house and take what they want according to a law that is older than Methusaleh to him is cruel. The taxpayer should be allowed to pay what they can afford. He also considers the argument of Member of Parliament Jules James that writing off taxes prior to 2005 as punishing the persons who have already paid and rewarding those who never paid their back taxes a lack of foresight. We cannot change the past only the present. What he considers to be punishment is that today because of the neglect by former governments of the Netherlands Antilles in equipping the then Inspectorate of Taxes on St. Maarten to carry out their responsibilities the people is pressured. The writing off of these taxes will make available funds which can be used for investment and job creation. The goal should be to create a positive environment by cutting the cost of business and people. What also has to be seriously addressed is government waste. On another note while he congratulates the controllers who are doing their best with limited staff and equipment, he is calling on government to allocate funds within the Budget 2011 and soon 2012 to the Economic Affairs Department to increase staff in order to carry out stricter and consistent controls. Every cent less that consumers have to spend may be it on food items, gasoline, cooking gas will make them better able to cope with the high cost of living. He received the answers he posed to the Minister of Economic Affairs Franklyn Meyers during the Budget 2011 discussions. However the Minister did not answer the question on how much was being collected from businesses who request to open beyond the regular hours. The Minister's response was persons requesting a perm it to open after regular hours have to pay naf 150,-. The Member of Parliament states that he will be sending another letter to the Minister requesting this information. In addition to that it turns out that according to the Minister of Economic affairs the controlling of the gas cylinders to ensure that indeed they weigh 100lbs is not under his responsibility. What the Member of Parliament will be requesting of the Minister is then whose responsibility is it. With regards to the gas stations, the Minister claims that whenever fuel prices change the pumps are calibrated. In his letter to the Minister the Member of Parliament states that he will be requesting a report at least from January 2011 until July of the dates the calibrating was done and by whom. Finally it would be interesting to find out what the weight of these gas cylinders are prior to being filled and if the cylinders are all of the same weight. And finally the Member of Parliament says that if his memory serves him right one has to pay a deposit for the gas cylinders. The deposit is only reimbursed if the cylinder is returned. Then the question is what are we paying for? Remember every cent counts.

American investigators are due in Guyana Monday to retrieve the flight recorders of the Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) plane which crash-landed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) early Saturday.

Flights in and out of the airport have resumed while efforts were underway throughout the day to retrieve the baggage belonging to the 151 passengers and six crew members.

Transport Minister Robeson Benn revealed Saturday evening that eight US National Transport Safety Board (NTSB) specialists are expected in Guyana on Sunday at 5PM. Several specialists from manufacturer Boeing are also expected.

The cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder have already been removed fronm the plane and secured. All records concerning the aircrfat are being " collected and sequestered" he said told reporters at a news briefing at CJIA.

According to Benn, at the time of the accident there was a light shower and visibilty was said to be at 8km which he described as "good."

"We will deal with the facts as we know them and the results as we discern them," he said.

He noted that the Guyana Fire Service was on standby to suppress any fire had there been any. However, there was no fuel leakage. The minister added that the local authorities are receiving assistance from the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica aviation officials.

Benn also rejected suggestions of an inadequate response but said they will conduct an assessment.

"Any accident will be reviewed to see whether we have to improve on our response and in terms of any assets that we may have."

Benn also disagreed with the view that the removal of the tail section from the edge of the runway amounted to tampering with evidence. He said it was done in consultation with experts and the owners to ensure that normal operations could resume at the airport.

"We are doing things which are needed to restore the aerodrome to its safe status, to a status which existed before the incident," he said.

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and a team including several of her ministers have arrived in Guyana and have checked the wreckage in the company of Benn, Guyana's foreign minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and CAL officials.

The airline is the national carrier of the twin-island republic.

Steel barricades, manned by armed police and soldiers, have been erected around the aircraft to secure it for the investigators.

Airline Chairman George Nicholas at a news briefing earlier Saturday called it a miracle that the US$38 million aircraft acquired in 2007 did not catch a fire or persons were not killed or more seriously injured.

"It's an absolute miracle that took place today," he told a news briefing at the CJIA. "It's amazing to have an aircraft in that shape with a small number of injuries."

Nicholas and other senior management officials, who flew in from Trinidad, had declined to speak about the weather, how equipped was the airport control tower and other matters that could impact on the investigations in connection with Flight BW523.

The airline officials, however, assured that the pilot has been flying for 25 years and has been doing so to Guyana over that same period. Reports from the hospital say the 52-year-old pilot sustained injuries to his back. He was treated and released.

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Saturday afternoon released a list of 35 persons who were seen at the institution, three of whom have been admitted as patients.

They are a male, 46, of Shell Road, Kitty who sustained an injury to his right leg and was admitted to the High Dependency Unit; a 69-year-old female of Whim, Corentyne who sustained an injury to her forehead and was admitted to the Female Surgical Ward and; a 20-year-old female of 110 Second Street, Hopetown who suffered a cerebral concussion and trauma to the abdomen. She too was admitted to the Female Surgical Ward. The names of the trio demwaves.com learnt are Noel Elliot, Winifred Joseph and Nakeda Allen.

Four children with ages ranging between seven and 15 years were also among those treated and sent away.

The Diamond Diagnostic Center also treated 17 patients with 11 being referred to the GPHC while six were sent home.

"We will continue to be alert throughout the coming days for passengers who may experience any pain or trauma," Health Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy said in a statement.

Caribbean Airlines spokeswoman, Laura Asborjornsen said a team of Caribbean experts would be arriving in Guyana to assist with "post trauma" counselling for the passengers and crew members.
Scores of persons who arrived on the flight expressed concern about the delay in getting their baggage.

However, airline officials said all personal belongings inside the cabin were being collected and placed in individual plastic bags corresponding with each seat.

There were 96 American passport holders, 44 Guyanese passport holders and 12 Canadian passport holders on the flight, the authorities have revealed, with most of those with foreign documents being Guyana-born.

The incident occurred around 1:25 AM when the jet ran off the runway and down a slope where it snapped in two.

President Bharrat Jagdeo has also visited the scene.

Demerara Waves

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams was on hand at the Princess Juliana International Airport on Sunday to say goodbye and also wish Holland bound students much success with their studies in the Netherlands.

Minister of Education Hon. Dr. Rhoda Arrindell is accompanying the 60 students to Holland besides heading a delegation of Ministry of Education officials to the Netherlands to meet with various officials.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Service (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is reminding residents who plan to travel for the summer holidays to Europe and the Americas to make sure their vaccinations are up to date, especially for measles.

Persons should check with their family physician to see if their vaccinations are up to date.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) along with the World Health Organization (WHO) in May called on health authorities in the Americas to recommend vaccination against measles and rubella for travelers.

PAHO also recommends that any resident of the Americas planning to travel to other regions of the world should be protected against measles and rubella prior to departing on their trip.

Travel increases the risk for exposure to measles virus and its further spread into susceptible populations if not vaccinated. An outbreak of measles is defined as a chain of transmission with three or more confirmed cases.

From January 1 to June 17, more measles cases were reported in the United States compared with the same period since 1996. Most of these cases were among or linked to travelers returning from or visiting from other countries such as countries in Europe and Southeast Asia.

Measles is spread by contact with an infected person and through coughing and sneezing. The measles virus can remain active and contagious for up to two hours in the air or on surfaces.

Travelers who have not been vaccinated against measles and rubella are at risk of getting the disease and transmitting it to their friends and family members who may not be up to date with their vaccinations.

Special efforts should be made to ensure vaccination for women of childbearing age in order to prevent possible infections caused by the rubella virus during pregnancy.

Since the beginning of the year, the WHO has reported more than 6,000 cases of measles with significant outbreaks observed in 30 countries, including Belguim, France, Serbia, Turkey, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Spain.

To prevent further spread, WHO encourages health authorities to advocate for immunization before travel and to provide immunizations through health systems' immunization services according to existing national immunization schedule.

WHO recommends at least one dose prior to international travel for adolescents and adults who are unsure about their immunity status.

Measles are highly contagious and remains one of the world's biggest causes of death among young children. Travelers may be exposed on airplanes or in airports. This disease can be prevented through a safe and effective vaccine.

International travelers must show evidence of immunity to measles and rubella.

Talk to your doctor to see if you need a measles vaccination before you travel. People who cannot show that they were vaccinated as children and who have never had measles should probably be vaccinated.

The first measles vaccine is routinely recommended at age 12 months to ensure that you and your child are well vaccinated.

Great Bay:--- Digital artist Angelo Rombley launched four art installations on the Internet last Sunday in a tribute to the celebration of St. Martin's Emancipation Day on July 1.
The digital art pieces, rendered in a neo-revolutionary street-poster style, are entitled, "July 1 upRising X," "FreeSM," "SXM 1848," and "July 1 upRising." Rombley is an award-winning graphic designer who lists Fortune 500 companies among his clients and employers.
According to author/poet Lasana M. Sekou, the commemorative collection is "a grafitti blaze of bold orange, yellow, green, black, red, white and blue colors, pitched as emblazoned backgrounds, some composing the Unity Flag like a crest, a stamp, a tattoo of St. Martin, as one nation."
"The flag is pressed with a visual cacophony of iconic and native symbols of words, dates, determination, and freedom. And like from a mad scientist's lab, here is a four-piece formula, determined to order 'the known' from the chaos of 'not knowing' one's own history, culture, identity, land, destiny," wrote Sekou in an email to me. He was "lobbying" for House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) to ask Angelo's permission to upload the four panels on the publisher's website.
The pro-Independence Sekou has never hid the fact that he is wont to first select inferences of political content in art. Then on to other views. I don't know if that's an Nkrumah tendency in the poet about which kingdom to seek first.
What I do know, is that there is of course much more to interpret and experience in these newest pieces from Angelo "The Pixel Pusher." To have an idea of the ground zero story of Emancipation on the island, 163 years ago, is to see in Angelo's bright and bold images the "memory" and act of St. Martiners in "The Netherlands part" silently lining the roadsides in 1848, refusing to return to the plantations as slaves (after their kin had just been released from bondage in the North).
There is the lucid dream of a beautiful future for all St. Martin people in the soaring silhouette of the pelican. There is also pure art reaching out, as if each time you look at the light and form of the posters, they are just emerging from the artistic genie that Angelo Rombley seems to have trapped, in a place that he and Sekou call "the lab."
"Angelo's art forces what is ordinary in any of us to collapse before creative statements of beauty and power. His work speaks in tongues, for who have ears to hear, eyes to see, and a heart, in this case, to love St. Martin in utterly new and unique ways," wrote Sekou about the July 1 Emancipation tribute.
Rombley can speak for himself to. "Art is also inspired by culture, history, freedom, democracy. Art can creatively record the history that our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents made and lived," said Rombley.
"These four digital art posters will hopefully have in them reflections that inspire aspects of the new history that we are making, and the new life that we are creating and living in St. Martin," said Rombley.
Rombley launched three of the freedom tribute posters on Facebook from his "Work" album on Sunday, June 26, 2011. http://www.facebook.com/arombley.
Following an interview with the artist for Offshore Editing Services, HNP exhibited the full series of four panels, each with its description, at its Nehesi House Facebook for public viewing. http://www.facebook.com/nehesipublishers. The art will in short be at HNP's website, which already profiles a number of artists and their work http://www.houseofnehesipublish.com/art_revue2028.html.
Rombley said that opting for the Internet to present his new series may be partly "a generation thing, the way we are using the new media and digital devices." It surely allows for a social network and general Internet preview of the new digital art collection that he is "building." His last exhibit on the island was in 2005.
Rombley has had a long artistic and professional collaboration with Sekou and HNP. He has designed or co-designed a number of HNP book covers, such as the cover and book design for the new titles From Yvette's Kitchen... and St. Martin Talk.
St. Martin people, freedom-loving friends and art lovers throughout the Caribbean and around the world, I invite you to enjoy the Emancipation tribute art posters by St. Martin's leading digital artist, Angelo Rombley.

Madam President,
His Excellency drs. Eugene Holiday,
Governor of St. Martin,
Acting Prime Minister, Honorable Theodore Heyliger
Honorable Members of Parliament,
Colleagues in the Council of Ministers,
Honorable Counselor representing the government in the North, Dr. Louis Jeffry
Distinguished Guests,
Residents of our beloved St. Martin,
Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

On a day like this, 28 years ago, the Newsday of Jose Lake Jr., ran a front page editorial with the title, "Never Again!" The edition was commemorating the 120th anniversary of the official declaration of Emancipation on St. Martin, the southern half or what many refer to as the "Dutch side". Since that date, at least, there has been a clamor for July 1st, Emancipation Day, to be declared a national public holiday. Little did I know then that Providence would grant me the honor and privilege of being in a position to make it happen.
From the moment I entered into government, priority number one for me was to make July 1st an official National Public Holiday. The process began in December 2010, less than two months after I took office. At the time, I signaled my intention to bring before Parliament a draft law that would make Emancipation Day, a national public holiday. The Council of Ministers approved the draft law more than two months ago. This draft law is making its way through the constitutionally mandated channels and I hope Parliament would be able to handle it when it returns from recess.
In the meantime, however, recognizing the importance of this day for all St. Martiners, the Council of Ministers decided to grant all government workers the day off. I must also thank you, Madam President, for honoring my request to convene this Extraordinary Plenary Session of Parliament to mark this historic date.
We have come a long way as a people, as a nation, in our eternal march towards freedom. But freedom is not free, as the saying goes, Madam President. Our enslaved ancestors knew that and never gave up the struggle to be free. At every opportunity, they took their freedom. Some of them escaped and formed thriving maroon societies far from the reach of those who had enslaved them. If we study the history of the maroons–and there were maroons in St. Martin also–we would better understand where our resilience and fighting spirit as a people came from.
Emancipation, Madam President, did not come about as a result of a change of heart by those who enslaved our ancestors: it is the victory of the indomitable human spirit over the inhumanities and injustices of Slavery. What we are celebrating today is therefore the hard fought freedom of our ancestors whose struggle gave testament to the saying that "men are enslaved by force but remain slaves by choice."
This is a powerful statement that should make all of us reflect on the constitutional path we have chosen. In two referenda six years apart, the people of St. Martin chose to remain within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is a choice we need to revisit; it is a choice our leaders led us into. What will history say about our choice? What will our own children say about it? Would they be able to celebrate that choice as a victory? Victory over what? Victory over who?
Slavery was an evil system of mad exploitation and dehumanizing oppression. It stigmatized both the oppressed and the oppressor. The effects of Slavery are still very much with us today. Its psychological impact still lingers on. It is like a deeply infected wound which we think is cured by bandaging it. The smell it oozes out alone is toxic. The only way for it to heal would be to cleanse the wound, sanitize it, disinfect it, and apply an ointment that may burn us, before drying it up. What we have been doing thus far, is seeking short-cuts to real and enduring freedom. There is no short cut to freedom, Madam President. There is no measure for it either. You cannot be half-free, somewhat free, or almost free: you are either free or not. And freedom, in my humble view, is the condition sine qua non for progress.
No one understood this better than Frederick Douglas, who said: "If there is no struggle, there is no progress. Those who profess to favor freedom, and yet depreciate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground. They want rain without thunder and lightning. They want the ocean without the awful roar of its many waters. This struggle may be a moral one; or it may be a physical one; or it may be both moral and physical; but it must be a struggle." Or as Peter Tosh would have said, "Everybody wants to go to Heaven, but nobody wants to die."
Madam President, may I emphasize here that for us on St. Martin, that struggle is not yet over. Our freedom is still a work in progress. We need a Redemption Song: Bob Marley's Redemption Song, so that, as he so beautifully sings, we can "emancipate ourselves from mental slavery" because "none but ourselves can free our minds."
That emancipation from mental slavery must start in our schools. May I announce here before Parliament, Madam President, that one of my goals as Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs, is to embark on a comprehensive revision of our school curricula so that our children would no longer be taught that Columbus "discovered" St. Martin when in fact he didn't even put foot on the island.
We must not continue to tell our children we are from "the Dutch side" or "French side," but from St. Martin. Period! And if we want to be more specific, why not from Reward, Colebay, or Marigot, Grand Case? If we look carefully, we would see that St. Martin is lost when we say "Dutch side" or "French side."
Our media must join in this struggle to emancipate ourselves from mental slavery by, for example, telling the truth about July 1st, 1863: our ancestors had actually won their freedom since 1848 at the very least, when the French abolished Slavery on all their territories, including the North of our island.
I note with disappointment, and wish I could say surprise, at the fact that when I picked up the two daily papers this morning, there were no supplements on Emancipation Day, like I've seen on events such as the Heineken Regatta and Halloween.
As we celebrate Emancipation Day today, we must remember the sacrifice of our ancestors by virtue of which we can walk around today without shackles. Let us, therefore, also resolve NEVER to lower our guards. Freedom that we fail to claim, freedom that we fail to defend and protect, is freedom lost. Let us pledge to work towards that freedom which is the destiny of all peoples and all nations: political freedom.
If, as Lasana Sekou says, the Great Salt Pond is the cradle of our nation, that nation remains in gestation, and it can only be born when our own flag can fly high in the St. Martin blue sky, without being subordinate to any other flag, as the late Dr. Claude Wathey said at the hoisting of the St. Martin flag.
And speaking of flags, Madam President, it is my intention to propose that Flag Day be merged with Emancipation Day since both are symbols of who we are.
And who are we really, Madam President? All it takes for us to find the answer to that question is to flip through the pages of our history and culture.
We are the salt of the earth, not just because we have numerous salt ponds that made the first owners of this land to call it Soualiga, land of salt, but also because in many ways, we are unique. We are so unique that we often ignore to name Francis August Perrinon among our heroes in spite of the fact that this famous abolitionist, son of a freed enslaved African woman, and a major shareholder in salt ponds on both halves of the island, was the first to introduce equal pay for equal work for all his workers regardless of their color, creed, status, class, or place of origin.
We are so unique that the Ponum, our national dance, the dance of freedom, speaks of how "massa" had tried to hide the news of the Proclamation of Emancipation from our enslaved ancestors, who, like the Diamond 26, had, however, been fleeing into freedom in the North, 15 years before Governor Crol issued his proclamation, all the way in Curacao.
Madam President, the seeds of who we are today can be found buried in our salt ponds and in our plantations; in our folk songs and wise sayings; in our cuisine and in our poems and paintings; in our labor and in our fete. We need to water those seeds so they could germinate into strong trees, like the flamboyant–the July or Emancipation tree.
And when I say "we," I mean all St. Martiners: in the North and in the South; in the East and the West; at home and abroad; born here or born elsewhere. Emancipation Day is not for any one particular group of people: it is for all freedom lovers because none of us can truly be free until all of us are free.
Happy Emancipation Day!
God bless St. Martin!
I thank you.

After an amazing Year in the arts, winning dance competition in Guadeloupe as well as in France, producing the original Folkloric Musical "Don Lolo", Imbali continues with their dedication to artist training with their Annual Visual and Performing Arts summer camp.

Imbali's Summer camp is a multi-disciplinary camp offering classes in a variety of artistic disciplines ranging from voice classes, dance classes, capoeira, drama, Games arts and craft and much more.

Imbali Visual and Performing Arts Summer Camp will run for 3 weeks starting July 4 and ending Friday July 22. The camp classes are everyday from 8am until 5pm at the John Larmonie Center in Philipsburg.

This year Theatre Director Melissa Fleming joins Team Imbali at the summer camp. Ms. Fleming brings to the camp a wealth of experience both as an educator where she works as an elementary school teacher at the Martin Luther King School and as a creative person.

As a Theatre Director, Ms. Fleming has written and produced numerous productions featuring the youth culture. Amongst her work, is "Face off a production about adversities the youth face, but also promoting positive ways to over come their challenges.
Other production includes "un nuit De masala Love " "Journey to love, woman to thou arth", and "Village"
Addition to being a person in theatre .Ms Fleming is founder of "The One Young Poet society " a dynamic group of St.Maarten poets whose mission it is to create a platform where young talent can find a medium to explore the art of the spoken word.

Rounding out the new addition to Team Imbali Summer camp is the gifted and versatile Performance Artist La Rich Audain. La Rich Audain a prolific poet, and Visual artist took St.Maarten by storm with her unique style of Body Arts and face painting techniques. With her team of face painting artists Ms. Audain can be seen at many child centered events ranging from "child fest"' to numerous private parties and children Fun Days Activities in St.Maarten and the neighboring Islands.

Imbali mission is to create a center where the arts and the artist come together in a safe and nurturing environment to flourish and find their personal creative expressive voice.

Imbali Visual and Performing Arts Summer Camp has been at the fore- front of inter-disciplinary artist training and continues this tradition with their latest Annual Summer Camp.

For information please call 523-9148 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Philipsburg:--- The Lands Recherché arrested Roland Lake a prison guard working at the Pointe Blanche Prison in connection with the disappearance of a prisoner's money. The money went missing between Friday May 6 and Sunday May 8th 2011.
Lake was arrested on Monday morning at his home on Pond Island confirmed Public Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh.
A press release from the Prosecutor's office states that on "Monday July 4th the "Landsrecherche" arrested a 46 year-old civil servant working at the Point Blanche prison, in relation to the disappearance of $ 1,232.00 in May 2011. This money belonged to an inmate, who was being released that day. The suspect has been taken in for questioning. He has given several statements, and has been released on Tuesday, July 5th. He remains a suspect in the investigation. The investigation into the embezzlement of the money continues. At this moment, in the interest of the investigation, we cannot give any further information," the press release concluded.
Roland Lake, a Prison Guard for some 23 years was once suspended some years ago when he was suspected of taking money from a prisoner whose name has been provided as Badadoo. Reliable sources said that Lake and another prisoner guard whose name has been given as "Scot" took $1000.00 from the prisoner to take women inside of the house of detention for the prisoner to have sex. According to the information provided to SMN News, Scot was relieved of his duties while Lake was re-instated. Lake was also working for a courier services while he was suspended when he claimed to have been robbed of a large sum of money. Details on the outcome of that case are still not known.

The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) would like to announce the commencement of its moving process to the new building in the month of July.
MHF will be moving from its existing location at 107a oven drive L.B. Scott road Cul de sac to a new address at #1 Leopard road Cay Hill.
Subsequent to MHF's move and set up, the new building will ensure quality mental health care for the community of Sint Maarten. It will contain offices, a Faraja Center (Day Care), crisis rooms, a re-socialization programme and a guided living facility.
The new building will also halt the incarceration of patients at the police station and will limit the transfer of patients to Capriles to only very serious cases.
During the first half of the July, MHF's Administration and Clinic will move to the new building followed by the Faraja Center a few weeks later.
Although superior care will be provided to patients after the move, the Mental Health Foundation would like to remind the community that the work is not over yet. Family members, friends and the community at large are to be the "first" and "continuous" caregivers of the mentally ill by offering support and assistance, being informed and breaking the ties of Stigma and fear about Mental Illnesses.
The Mental Health Foundation apologizes for any inconvenience the move might cause.

The Caribbean region is now into its second month of this year's hurricane season and with four plus months to go, NAGICO Insurances encourages the community to be prepared in the event of a storm or major hurricane.

Managing Director Mr. Eric Ellis: "We advise all our clients to be prepared. The following tips may be helpful: Ensure that your insurance documents are safely stored in water tight bags or containers, together with other important legal or medical documents during any storm. Families should identify the "safe rooms" in their homes and have an escape route in place, including identifying their neighborhood's designated hurricane shelters. For persons wishing to check the status of their insurance coverage or obtain coverage against potential risks during a storm, weather it may be life, medical, property or automobile insurance, they may visit any of our authorized agents or Customer Service Representatives at our offices in Philipsburg or Marigot.

Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger stated: To aid the community we have updated our hurricane companion to include essential emergency contact numbers for all the 15 islands where we operate. The hurricane checklist, containing pointers on what to do before, during and after a storm is also provided. Copies of the Hurricane Companion / Map are now available at our head office or can be downloaded from our website: www.nagico.com. The website also contains links to other international hurricane info pages such as Stormpulse.com. NAGICO remains committed to providing information and necessary insurance coverage during this hurricane season."

Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen,

I am extremely sorry that I cannot be present for this historical event.

Nevertheless, I would like to thank the Windward Islands Health Care Unions Association (WHICUA), the SMMC's negotiating team and the Government's mediators - Mr. Kenneth Lopes, Mr. Derrick Holiday and extraordinary mediator Mr. Raphael Boasman. Without all of you, the signing of the CLA would not be possible. Congratulations!

Shorty after taking office, I was faced with my first challenge – the SMMC. This challenge was a clear indication to test how I would contribute to any future challenges. SMMC, honestly, you are a trendsetter. My contribution to this initial challenge was very little, I believe, because both parties wanted this. I had to listen to both sides, ask each party to compromise and stay focused on their goals. When communication broke down - I facilitated because parties needed space to breathe and exhale then return to the negotiations. This is an example of maturity. It is with great esteem, I commend you both for being an example and I thank you.

Communication is the best strategy and the future of SMMC depends on it. I mentioned this at SMMCs anniversary celebration and would like to re-emphasize it. Keep the gates of communication open - it will lead you to success.

To the Government's negotiators - I say thank you as well. I remember telling Mr. Lopes - if you are going to retire, go out on the top with this one completed. Needless to say he delivered. Mr. Holiday our rookie in this field got his feet nice and wet. And Mr. Boasman, thank you for your support and your negotiation skills. This is what team spirit is all about.

Each board member of WIHCUA has their strengths and style. You are a team that needs to be kept together, like an all star team. Despite your differences- you are one. Don't allow anyone or any organization to get in between.

To the SMMC's negotiating team, representing the supervisory council and management, you too consist of differences and experiences. Keep up the united front in order to work in SMMC best interest in a responsible financial manner. To you to I say thank you.

On behalf of the people of St. Maarten, I say thank you. We are grateful for the work that you do at SMMC and we know that together you, WIHCUA and SMMC will ensure a fair and safe working environment. Congratulations SMMC on your 2011 CLA.

Philipsburg:--- Police Major Aswin Martina and a supervisor from MNO Vervat are currently nursing injuries they sustained during a fight Friday night at the St. Maarten Medical Center. According to information reaching SMN News, Major Aswin Martina an officer of the law was driving under the influence of alcohol on Pondfill Road Friday night when he encountered a road block in the vicinity of the Philipsburg Police Station.
SMN News learnt that an employee of MNO was in the vicinity of the Philipsburg Police Station and the entrance to the Office of Constitutional Affairs directing traffic as workers from MNO Vervat were busy applying asphalt to several areas of Pondfill Road which is currently under repairs.
Eyewitnesses said Major Martina refused to follow the instructions of the MNO worker and he refused to use the side road that was used to divert traffic. One eye witnesses said the drunken officer began fighting with the MNO worker who happens to be stronger than him. The worker told him that he will not allow him to drive on the main road and he must use the side entrance like everyone else. "Martina wanted to drive on the main road that already had wet material on it and the MNO worker told him on more than one occasion that he was going to mess his vehicle up while damaging the work they already did, but Martina decided he was not going to listen and started to fight. I saw when he ran to his car maybe to get his service weapon and the guy from MNO took a rock and pelted it at him. However, he missed Martina and hit his supervisor in the face knocking him out cold. The supervisor had to be taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center in an unconscious state because his nose broke from the impact of the rock."
Police arrested the MNO worker as they investigate the fracas. SMN News also learnt that MNO was forced to stop their work and they had to take material that was already prepared for the work back to their main office in Pointe Blanche. SMN News further learnt that MNO will be seeking damages for their lost material and the injuries caused to their workers.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said he did not have the details of the incident and he will look for the report during the weekend before commenting on the case.
It should be noted that Chief of Police Peter de Witte is currently off island attending the Las Americas meetings in Aruba. Efforts made to reach Commissioner of Police Carl John for a comment on the issue proved futile. It should also be noted that Major Aswin Martina is currently on probation for other police misconduct.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Last week Thursday, Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams met with Dominica's Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skeritt during a stop-over.

Wescot-Williams used the opportunity to have lunch where they discussed plans of the Government of Dominica to create a formal structure for the export of vegetables, provisions and fruit out of Dominica.

Besides that, the request to have a Consular office on the island was also discussed as well as the further exchange of information between both countries.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams remarked that the timing of Dominica's plans for an export structure were quite timely, given that Sint Maarten has recently established guidelines and conditions for the local sale of commodities mentioned above.

The presentation captured in the photo is of a painting by an artist from Dominica, in a frame of Dominica wood. It was a token of appreciation and friendship between the two countries.

Cole Bay:--- United Peoples (UP) party Member of Parliament (MP) Jules James congratulates all school graduates as well as teachers and school management on their successes during the past school year 2010/2011 and wishes them a wonderful summer vacation.
"I read the many media reports during the past two weeks of the accomplishments of our young people in school. I commend our teachers and school management, parents and guardians for the role that they have played during the past school year to help our nation's youth move from one rung of lifelong learning process to the next.
"The achievements of the past school year is just the first of the positive developments that will also continue in the new school year with the hard work and dedication of all concerned who made the past school year a success," MP Jules James said on Sunday.
James added that student success isn't just about increasing achievement and narrowing the gap, or the graduation rate, but it's about ensuring that every student who graduates with a very positive outcome has the best chance for success in life.
Students entering high school for the new 2011/2012 school year will be embarking on a journey of higher education learning. For this journey, students are expected to have a positive attitude towards learning along with perseverance, and a willingness to work hard.
"All students need to set goals at the onset of the new school year. Be realistic and work hard and you will achieve success as you have done in the past. Regardless of a person's circumstances, always strive for success, because nothing is beyond ones reach. If you are determined to succeed you will achieve," United Peoples party MP Jules James concluded.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Contractors and builders are requested to have a plan in place to prepare and secure their job sites in the event of a passing hurricane.

Even though the season has been quiet so far, every effort should be made to be prepared in the event of a threat.

Contractors and home builders during severe weather are responsible for securing job sites for the protection of the public, property and surrounding areas.

Materials such as plywood, shingles, zinc, and other construction material could become flying missiles capable of impaling brick walls or anything in its way.

Construction debris can cause severe damage to property and cost lives. With building and construction activity still taking place on the island, every construction site supervisor or foreman is advised to have a plan in place with respect to what action they will be taking.

A tropical storm system could form during any part of the hurricane season and not necessarily during the peak months from mid August to mid October.

As a general rule, all jobsites should be kept clean. Arrange timely pick up of trash dumpsters, and only keep materials on the job site you actually will utilize at any given week especially during the hurricane season, and keep construction equipment secure. Any planned supply deliveries should be postponed if there is a hurricane threat to the island.

When a tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued 48-hours before a system is forecasted to hit, remove all scaffolding, and remove, or safely secure, all building materials and equipment.

Sub contractors should also be alerted to their responsibilities as well with respect to securing or removing their materials and equipment.

Stop job processes that will likely become damaged by the hurricane, such as window installations, house wrap, or landscaping. Complete those tasks that will likely prevent damage, such as concrete work, closing in a house, or filling in foundation excavations.

Follow through with a quick inspection of your job sites. Do not wait until the last minute to inspect your job sites, as you may need that time to go home and secure your own family home. Employees will need to also do the same.

Once the hurricane is over, return to the job site for damage inspection only when the all clear sign has been given by the Emergency Operations Center headed by the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten.

Keep in mind that damages from the hurricane on other parts of the island may impede efforts for immediate attention of job sites.

Philipsburg:--- Leader of the National Alliance and Member of Parliament William Marlin has called on the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams to come clean and not fool the people of St. Maarten regarding the high cost of electricity. Marlin quoted statements made by the Prime Minister last week during the Council of Ministers press briefing when she was asked what her government plans to do about GEBE and the fuel clause that is levied on their customers. Marlin said at no time did the Minister of Economic Affairs give GEBE an instruction to remove their fuel clause from the consumer's bills. The National Alliance Leader read parts of the letter to reporters on Tuesday as he made his point. Marlin said elections are long gone and the Prime Minister should not lie to the people of St. Maarten. Marlin said the statements made by the Prime Minister are misleading and one can say that the Prime Minister blatantly lied to the people of St. Maarten when she said the Council of Ministers had given GEBE an instruction which would go into effect on August 1 if GEBE does not give government a feasible proposal. Marlin said when he read and heard the statements he did some research of his own and found the letter of June 15th 2011 that was sent to GEBE by Minister Franklin Meyers. According to the letter, government gave GEBE a conditional approval to apply its new tariff structure. That conditional approval will go into effect as of August 1 where GEBE cannot pass on its in-efficiencies to its consumers.

Philipsburg:--- The Police Internal Affairs has placed Major Ashwin Martina on suspension as of Thursday July 14th 2011 confirmed Head of Detectives, Denise Jacobs.

Jacobs confirmed that Martina's weapon was taken on Thursday and he was placed on suspension until the ongoing investigation against him and an MNO worker finalizes.

Major Martina has been involved in several confrontations with members of the public, and he was on probation for beating a Checkmate Security Guard after refusing to comply with orders issued by the security guard who was working at MegaPlex.

Last week Friday evening, Martina was involved in an incident with an MNO worker who was directing traffic on Walter Nisbeth Road when Officer Martina showed up drunk and refused to comply with the instructions of the worker who asked him to use the side road that was being used to divert traffic as they carried out patch work on Pondfill road. On the night of the incident, MNO stopped their work and all mixed material that had to be used on the road that night had to be taken to their headquarters for disposal. The fracas between the MNO worker and Officer Martina left one of MNO's supervisors with a broken nose.

Sources say that MNO submitted a claim to government for Naf. 87,000.00 and has since refused to resume working on Pondfill road until the claim is finalized. It is understood that MNO made claims for the material and all their workers who were on duty that night. SMN News further learnt that the road repairs on Pondfill might resume Friday night.

Philipsburg:--- Leader of the National Alliance and Member of Parliament William Marlin told reporters that is he not a sportsman and as such he does not play games. Marlin said as a politician he engages in politics. Marlin said it is sad to see how some Members of Parliament are making statements to cover up their inabilities, one person he said is the Chairlady of Parliament Gracita Arrindell who he said does not know her job description.
Marlin said it appears as though some Members of Parliament don't know the rules and proper procedures of parliament and as such they are making statements to cover up for their in-abilities and lack of sense of direction. The National Alliance leader said "headlines such as William Marlin is obsessed with Romain La Ville would sell newspapers but that does not advance St. Maarten as a Parliament who has to conduct the people's business."
Marlin said Member of Parliament La Ville is seeking attention as he is looking for some type of media battle while he (La Ville) is attempting to cover up his governments' failures and particularly for the Minister of Finance.
Marlin said he does agree with the Chairlady when she said "we have to stop playing politics and spend more time in the governing procedure". However, Marlin said he wants to know who is the "we" the chairlady is referring to, since he is definitely not playing games. He said politicians engage in politics while baseball players engage in baseball and football players in football. "When politicians begin to play games and they twist and turn things in an effort to cover up their in-abilities then we have a serious problem," Marlin said.
Marlin said the Chairlady in her statements said "we" all made a mistake regarding the draft amendment of the civil code to curb the abuse of the short term labour contract." Marlin said there was no mistake that was made by "we" but there is one chairperson of parliament with two deputies and there is only one proper procedure that has to be followed when a Member of Parliament or a faction submits a piece of legislation. Marlin said placing it on incoming documents and then referring it to the Central Committee does not constitute a mistake, neither does it change the proper procedures that are to be followed.
Marlin said he also took note of the statements made by the chair that said he should get his facts straight since the legislation was sent to the Council of Advice since July 11th. Marlin said those statements would make it appear as though he is bickering, but the piece of legislation was only sent to the Council of Advice after he inquired about the status of the council's advice. Marlin also confirmed that to date, the chairlady still did not follow proper procedures to send off the document officially and as such the Council of Advice cannot treat their request. Marlin said the only thing the Chairlady had to do was to draft a cover letter, attach it to the draft amendment and send to the Council but it appears as though she does not know what has to be done. Marlin said Parliamentarians must follow proper procedures to avoid the country being run like a banana republic.
Marlin said St. Maarten will make mistakes as they go along in the new structure but it is unacceptable for them to be making mistakes one after the other and rather than accepting responsibility, the chairlady pushes it off on everyone else. Marlin said St. Maarten does not have a young parliament as is described by the chairlady. He said the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles existed for over 70 years to which St. Maarten was a part of and the legislation for that is there to be adopted even though St. Maarten does not have its own legislation, yet basic procedures are trampled upon every day. "The minute the chairlady received this piece of legislation she had to send it on to the council of advice," Marlin explained that unless proper procedures are followed the Council of Advice will not handle the draft piece of legislation.
Marlin also gave some explanation on the draft motions that were presented during the budget debate on June 29th. Marlin said prior to presenting the motion it was discussed with all the faction and they agreed to vote for it. Marlin said later than night, when certain Members of Parliament got instructions from "higher ups" in the party, they all backed out.

Philipsburg:--- The building permit for the new Caribbean Palm Building that houses the Parliament of St. Maarten still does not have a building permit confirmed Minister of VROMI Theodore Heyliger. Heyliger was responding to questions posed by SMN News regarding the status of the application made by the proprietor Reynold Williams.
The Deputy Prime Minister who is directly in charge of VROMI said the fire department has some concerns about the safety of the building and unless the fire department signs off on the building, he has no intention of signing off on the building permit for the new parliament building. While these are pending, parliamentarians are not able to fully move into the building due to constant power outages. Minister Heyliger said that GEBE is also waiting on the building permit before they change the wires leading to the meter. The Minister said the Ministry of VROMI has held some discussions with the general secretary of parliament as well as with the president of parliament and the proprietor of the Caribbean Palm Building who now has to provide the Ministry with the building plans. Heyliger said just after the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles (10/10/10) no one wanted to sign the request for the building permit and as such no one submitted a request for the building permit. The request for the permit was later submitted Heyliger said but there are some issues and concerns of the fire department since the building did not meet the fire codes of St. Maarten. Heyliger said because of that, the fire department gave a partial negative advice on the application for the building permit. Heyliger made it clear that no one is intentionally holding up the processing of the building permit since no request was submitted in the beginning. The Minister confirmed that there are certain challenges in processing the building permit but as soon as the fire department approves the building then he can sign off on the issuance of the building permit. The Minister also made it clear that he has no intention of taking responsibility for the lives of 15 parliamentarians and their staff.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- The Occupational Health & Safety Inspector of the Inspectorate of Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA), hereby informs the public and private sectors that it is mandatory to notify the Inspectorate about a workplace injury or accident.

It's the responsibility of the prime contractor, or if there is no prime contractor, then the contractor or employer responsible for the work site.

The aforementioned is regulated by the national safety ordinance 1958 (P.B. 1958 no 14) and the EHAM Organization Decision VSA (A.B. 2010 no5), art. 14 lid m, n, o, p that governs workplace health and safety for Sint Maarten.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Managing Director (MD) of the company must report immediately to the Inspectorate a) accidents with deadly consequence; b) accidents where the victim or victims have to be admitted to a nursing facility; c) accidents which cause such injuries, where permanent total or partial disability may be the consequence.

The Inspectorate investigation officials are at all times authorized to investigate an accident. The CEO/MD of the company is obliged to take the necessary measures to keep the accident site secure, unless there is an immediate danger to the health and safety of the remaining workers, passer-bys, materials or the environment.

The CEO/MD of the company is obliged to fully cooperate with the investigation and provide information, objects or substances, and assist the investigators with regard to the cause and circumstances surrounding the accident.

When any reportable accident or injury happens, after the investigation has been conducted, an investigation report is compiled.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is here to assist employees and employers with the provision of information related to safety on the job.

Those requesting information should contact the Inspectorate at 542-3579 or 542-2059. The office is located at Kanaalsteeg #1, Diamond Casino Building, Philipsburg (3rd floor).

Today, Sunday July 24, 2011, we commemorate two special occasions.

First; today would have marked the 85th birthday of the late Dr. Claude Wathey. The birthday of the most recognized of founding fathers of modern day Sint Maarten, Dr. Albert Claude Wathey. It is no Coincidence that he shared his birthday with Simon Bolivar, El libertador, who freed six Latin American republics from Spanish rule in 1783.
A man whom left his undeniable mark as well as his many contributions , forming the basis for the continued development of our young nation. Dr. Wathey was a man whom many revered. He was also, a man whom I and many admired and respected. Happy Birthday 'ol man', may your legacy continue, and transform this Country in a better and brighter future for our Citizens.
Secondly; we are here to mark the first anniversary of the founding of the United Peoples party. Congratulations!
This special day marks yet another milestone in our young nation's history. One year ago, joining together, determined, not which party will form the 1st government for Country Sint Maarten. Joining together paved the way for determined and visionary minds to Excel for Sint Maarten and its people. Congratulations Minister Theodore Heyliger, for being a visionary once again.
To my Honorable Colleagues Parliamentarians of the UP/ DP/Illidge coalition and to the Honorable Ministers, I offer these words of encouragement;
Every step we make, every word we utter, will be scrutinized, weighed for the merits and non merits of our actions. We are under a huge magnifying glass. That goes with the territory. We must stay focused and concentrate on what brought us together in the first place; a common passion to make this place, better, safer for all. The legendary Will Rogers once said;
'Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there'. We are setting the benchmarks, starting from scratch with much left undone prior to 101010. Constructive criticism is a condition sine qua non for our nation's future. No one government is perfect.
This is neither the time nor the place to elaborate on the achievements, and challenges of the government and parliament of our young country Sint Maarten. It's a chance to again publicly give thanks, first and foremost to God Almighty, for giving us Faith and Strength as we continue to build a firm foundation for future generations of Sint Maarteners.

Today, we re- affirm our commitments we made one year ago. We re- assure you that we will keep our promises made. We will not let you down.
Last but certainly not least; A huge Thank you goes out to our supporters, their family and friends for their continued support, dedication and prayer as we commemorate our party's first year. Without you, we would not be here today. God Bless you.
Today, July 24, 2011, we are standing firm and united. The UP/DP/Illidge coalition is a government of the people, for the people, by the people. United in our commitment to deliver on the promises we have made to the people of this country, we all love dearly.
Finally;
The United Peoples party and its coalition partners will work even better, smarter. A firm basis for this Country has been laid over the past nine months. We continue steadfast in the next 12 months and beyond. As a nation of God fearing, hard working people, let us take that journey together in dialogue instead of conflict.
This is a great opportunity to make the dream of a better Sint Maarten a reality. We can do it. May God continue to bless our nation and its great people!
Thank you. God Bless you.

Philipsburg:--- The University of St. Martin (USM) has invited key stakeholders from the business sector (including Government as an employer and Labor) to a Needs Assessment Summit at USM campus on July 28, 2011.

This summit is part of the higher education institution's effort to be able to best serve St. Maarten in its new constitutional status and is being organized in close cooperation with the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The summit is scheduled from 9:00am to 12:00pm.

"During this Needs Assessment Summit key information will be obtained from USM's valued stakeholders on what is expected of USM and most importantly how the University can foster a sustainable and synergistic partnership with the community," says USM President Annelies van den Assem.

This information will be used for a new strategic business plan.

President van den Assem adds that summit participants will have the unique opportunity to relate their institution's concern and/or wishes as far tertiary education on St. Maarten.

The USM President adds that summit participants are being asked to prepare, on behalf of their respective organizations, a 3 to 5 minute presentation where participants motivate their ideas, suggestions and plans on how USM's educational programs and course offerings could meet the participants specific needs.

The results will then be compiled and added to the stakeholders' section in USM's business plan.

Stakeholders from the business sector are asked to RSVP their attendance. Other key USM stakeholders include the Ministry of Education, Government of St. Maarten, primary and secondary educational establishments, and actual and potential students of USM. USM is already addressing some of these stakeholders and will continue to do so. Van den Assem stresses that the aim is to get feedback and input from all stakeholders for the strategic business plan.

The USM President said that she is looking forward to meeting with the various stakeholders and she thanks them in advance for their participation and contributions.

The first draft of USM's new strategic business plan is scheduled to be completed by the end of August 2011.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- With three weeks left of the school summer holidays, Youth Health Care (YHC) is encouraging parents to visit YHC to get their kids vaccinated or to check their vaccination status before the new school year opens.

Immunization is a way of protecting children against serious vaccine preventable diseases. Once a child or an adult has been fully vaccinated, their bodies can fight those diseases if one comes into contact with them.

YHC offices are located at the Vineyard Office Park, W.G. Buncamper Road #33 in Philipsburg and persons can visit between from 8.30am to 12.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.30pm from Monday to Friday.

Unprotected children are at greatest risk of contracting vaccine preventable diseases. Parents and guardians must ensure that their children are protected.

Parents who will be visiting YHC should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the vaccination status of your child, you should contact your general practitioner, pediatrician, or YHC for children up through 17 years of age.

YHC can also be contacted if you want to verify your own vaccination status by calling Tel. 542-3003, 542-2078 or 542-3553.

British Airways is once again supporting the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) with Keith Williams, chief executive giving the key note speech at the first State of the Industry Conference, taking place in St Martin between 14-17 September.

Keith Williams' speech will follow last year's address by Willie Walsh at the Leadership Strategy Conference and highlights British Airways' commitment to the Caribbean, whose economy is very dependent on tourism.

Commenting on his forthcoming visit, Keith Williams said: "Together with our friends and colleagues in the Caribbean, we look forward to reinforcing the region's position as a luxury leisure destination. With such a diverse range of islands, it's no surprise that these routes continue to be a firm favourite for British and international travellers. British Airways is proud to be flying to more destinations in the Caribbean than any other European airline."

Hugh Riley, secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, said: "The CTO is delighted to welcome Mr Williams to the region and we are honoured that he has found the time to speak at the conference in what must be a very busy first year for him. British Airways has reinforced its position as a truly committed partner in the Caribbean with the introduction of new routes and frequencies this year and we are keen to know how we can support the airline to bring further benefits to our region."

"The conference will look at the current state of the Caribbean tourism industry and how to deal with issues that impact on the sector, with a view to building for the future and of course BA will play a major part in this."

Keith Williams became British Airways' chief executive in January 2011, following the airline's merger with Iberia. He also sits on the Board of the two airlines' parent company, International Airlines Group. As chief financial officer of British Airways over the previous five years, he played a leading part in the airline's achievement of a record operating margin in 2007, before steering it through the worst recession in its history.

Great Bay (GIS):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development, & Labor Cornelius de Weever met with representatives Jorge Jenkins and Dr. Cristian Morales of the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO).

Minister De Weever, along with the Secretary General Jorien Wuite and other advisors, had the meeting to discuss current health issues, reporting of data to the PAHO, adherence to International Health Regulations IHR and the importance of having a focal point on St.Maarten.

Minister de Weever stated that "country St. Maarten intends to report and adhere to PAHO and WHO regulations as well as participate in local, regional and international conferences and workshops. We must continue to be trained, receive technical support, and strengthen our capacity."

In addition, the reality of St. Maarten being shared by the French side had to be explained and asked to be taken into consideration in terms of existence and with regards to reporting.

The Vice President of the Collective, French St. Martin, in charge of Education, Health, Culture, Sports and Tourism, also met with the PAHO representatives to discuss other relevant matters.

The meeting was fruitful and ended well, with the intention of all parties to work more closely together.

Philipsburg:--- The first annual report of the General Audit Chamber was presented to the Governor on Wednesday June 29 2011. Each year the General Audit Chamber is required by law (National Ordinance for the General Audit Chamber – Landsverordening Algemene Rekenkamer) to present a report of its activities of the preceding year to the Governor and the Parliament. On October 10th 2010, the General Audit Chamber was established along with the Country Status for Sint Maarten. As such, the operational year for the General Audit Chamber in 2010 was a short two and a half months.
Governor drs. E.B. Holiday received the Chairman of the General Audit Chamber, Mr. Roland Tuitt and the acting Secretary General of the General Audit Chamber, Mrs. Joane Dovale-Meit, at his offices at Harbour View on Wednesday morning. The Annual Report 2010 was formally presented to the Governor by the Chairman.
The Annual Report of the General Audit Chamber is required to be presented to the Governor and Parliament prior to July 1st of each year. Earlier in the week, the General Audit Chamber made a similar presentation to the President of Parliament, Ms. Gracita Arrindell.
The primary task of the General Audit Chamber is to audit government by examining whether public expenditures occurred within legal parameters, but also to determine whether expenditures and policy are effective and efficient. As a High Council of State, the General Audit Chamber was established by law (constitution) on October 10th 2010, and is comprised of a three person board, including a full time chairman, Mr. R. Tuitt. The other members are Mr. Ronald Halman and Mr. Alphons Gumbs. In addition, there are two replacement members, Mr. Mark Kortenoever and Mr. Daniel Hassell.

St. Maarten:--- On Wednesday, July 6th (6-9pm), Porto Cupecoy, a Mediterranean-inspired waterfront village and marina, will begin its Summer Concert Series. At the kick-off concert this Wednesday, a Cuban jazz trio featuring world-renowned musician, Fidel Morales, will perform. The restaurants and shops at Porto Cupecoy will be offering specials for concert guests, and admission is FREE. Sponsored by Porto Cupecoy, La Samanna, and Orient-Express, this concert will be the first in a weekly series, every Wednesday night at Porto Cupecoy. Visit the Arts in the Plaza Facebook pages for event schedule and details.

For more details, visit www.portocupecoy.com or the Arts in the Plaza Facebook page.

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Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Dr. Marcia de Castro, Resident Representative and United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), arrived on the island Monday for discussions with government officials including the Prime Minister.

De Castro is on a courtesy visit and will be meeting with officials to discuss the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDG), the National Development Program and Nation Building.

Since the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles, a new agreement is being worked on that would be signed between the UNDP and country Sint Maarten.

De Castro's visit concludes on July 9.

...

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and Marcia de Castro, the resident Coordinator of UNDP Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten signed a declaration of intent. The declaration of Intent was signed in the presence of the Council of Ministers who all participated in a meeting with the UNDP representative shortly after the signing.
Prime Minister Wescot Williams told reports that the declaration of intent has three points which they intend to work on which are to develop strategies for nation building and national development through a participative approach; implementation of policies aimed towards reaching the Millennium Development Goal and the further implementation of the development information database (Dev-info) as a precise and sensitive tool to measure and benchmark Sint Maarten's social-economic development as well as the acquisition of funds.
Marcia de Castro in her introductory remarks said the UNDP started partnership with the former Netherlands Antilles some 25 years ago.
The last project spearheaded by the UNDP was signed off in 2009. The two objectives of that project were to assist the islands with the transition of country status and to produce a millennium development report which was launched this year.

Click here to view the Declaration of Intent Signed by St. Maarten and UNDP.

Simpson Bay:--- Defendants Richard Sutton, Richard Corso and Quantum Investment Trust (QIT) won yet another significant victory against the Tenant's Association of Pelican Resort Club (TAPRC) in a verdict handed down by The Circuit Court of Broward County, Florida on July 7, 2011.

The court dismissed TAPRC's entire case, ruling that Florida courts were not an appropriate forum for a St. Maarten dispute. In making the ruling immediately at the conclusion of the hearing, the court brought a swift and final end to a case the current TAPRC Board had reportedly alluded to as it's "ace in the hole." Similar cases have previously been considered and rejected by St. Maarten's courts based on overwhelming evidence.

In fact, this is TAPRC's second legal defeat this week. On July 6, 2011, the Court of First Instance in St. Maarten ruled that the Special General Meeting called for today was valid. Due to a lack of a quorum the meeting was rescheduled to Monday July 11, 2011 providing resort members additional time to submit their voting Proxies. Members who have not voted are encouraged to do so by downloading a Proxy from www.simpsonbayresort.com and submitting it prior to the Special General Meeting at 9:00 a.m. EST on July 11, 2011. Members with any questions may also contact resort staff toll-free at 1-800-791-4416 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Special General Meeting will be broadcast live on the Internet at www.simpsonbayresort.com. The future well-being of the members, employees, concessionaires and resort is at stake. All members are emphatically encouraged to exercise their right and responsibility to participate in this important election.

MEMBERS ARE ADVISED THAT THE CHAIRMAN OF THE MEETING OF JULY 11, 2011 MAY ACCEPT PROXIES UP TO THE START OF THE MEETING AT 9:00 A.M. EST.

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten K-9 Foundation hosted a group of scouts that came over from Anguilla to see their training on Sunday morning.
The St. Maarten K-9 Foundation was established with the purpose of training dogs for Police, Customs, Coast Guard and Security companies. With sixteen K-9s highly trained in Police work on the field showing their abilities in searching, guarding, escorting and biting, the visitors were very impressed with the skills displayed during the demonstration.
"It takes us approximately two years of severe training to get a K-9 to this level," explained Michael Kuiperi. He further stated that what makes these dogs so special is the fact that they can switch from being very social to a vicious animal that is ready to defend its handler under the most difficult circumstances. "We train our dogs according to the Royal Dutch Police K-9 program which is one of the highest and respectable programs world-wide."
Tessa Oudkerk, one of the organizers that came from Anguilla stated that she kept this visit as a surprise to the youngsters and was very happy with the outcome. "It was beyond our expectation and I'm sure that these youngster have learned a lot and most important learn to respect police dogs or other highly trained K-9s." She thanked both Felix and Michael for hosting them and suggested to hold similar demonstration in Anguilla in the future so that more youngsters can enjoy the dogs.
Felix Richards thanked the group for coming over and extended a warm welcome to any other group of youngsters who wish to see their trainings. A special thank you was also mentioned to the highly trained K-9 handlers who participated in the demonstration.

Pointe Blanche:--- The owners of Jack and Jill Day Care Center are willing to shoulder the financial expenses for baby Jariska if the parents or police can prove that the six month old infant was really injured at the Day Care Center.
On Monday, SMN News reporter overheard when one of the owners of the Day Care Center Jacqueline Olliver Jameson told the parents Mr. and Mrs. Porchette that the Day Care Center would shoulder the medical expenses if they can obtain a medical report to present to FATUM Insurances. Baby Jariska is currently being treated at the St. Maarten Medical Center for two broken femurs which her parents claim happened at the Day Care Center on Friday.
However, Sharon Thomas, the main caregiver of baby Jariska is not in full agreement with the other co-owner Jacqueline who said she will shoulder the cost of the medical bills. "I told her she should not tell the parents that she will pay the medical bills unless they get a medical report and they can prove we injured her." Sharon said they are hearing different stories and they do not think that baby Jariska was injured at the Day Care Center. Both Jacqueline and Sharon said there is no abrasion on the child's legs and they feel that baby Jariska must have been injured before she began attending the Day Care Center. They both said they wanted to know how both legs of the infant broke in the same place. "This is strange and we can assure the parents that their child did not fall down while she was at the Day Care Center."
Minister of Health Cornelius De Weever said the Inspectorate is already aware of the incident and they are busy investigating. Two of the three owners of the Day Care Center confirmed that an inspector visited the Day Care on Monday and they inspected the building while they opened an investigation to determine how baby Jariska was injured. The caregivers said they spent most of the day on Saturday at the Police Station speaking with detectives who are busy investigating the incident. Sharon said she understands how the parents feel knowing that their baby is injured but they too want to know what happened to the infant. They said the Day Care Center is certified and all three of the caregivers are certified.
Caregiver Sharon Thomas Constance in an interview with SMN News said that she has been working at Jack Jill where she is part owner for the past 14 years and this is the first time she is accused of injuring a child. Thomas Constance also made clear that she is the mother of four children and at no time she injured a child. Thomas Constance said when baby Jariska was at school on Friday nothing was wrong with her. She said she gave the baby a shower and fed her as usual and at no time she noticed that baby Jariska was in pain. Caregiver Sharon Thomas Constance refuted the claims of Soranyi Porchette who said her baby was perspiring when she picked her up from the school and that baby Jariska held on to her shirt. The caregiver said when the mother picked up her baby the child was doing fine. She also admitted telling the mother that her daughter maybe wanted to sleep because when she picked her up from her chair she was going back to sleep. Sharon said Friday was the first time she actually played with baby Jariska as she was observing the child the past four days. Both owners of the Day Care Center said that baby Jariska only attended the Day Care Center for one week and they are lost as to how the child's legs got broken. "We too have questions we also want to know how this happened. This is the first time since I started this school in 1993 that something like this happened," said Jacqueline Jameson. Jameson said they have 27 children attending the Day Care, four of which are babies and three toddlers.
Thomas Constance admitted that she told the baby's mother that her baby was a coward but she said she meant no ill feelings when she said that to the baby's mother. "I was lifting the baby up above my head and playing with her, I was even talking to her and I noticed she did not like it so I placed her back in her chair and picked up another baby and played with that baby."
When asked if any other person or child attending the school was involved in an accident with baby Jariska, Sharon said no one entered the Day Care and she was sure that no other child interfered with baby Jariska.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- On Thursday, Ombudsman Nilda Arduin-Lynch and her Curacao colleague Ombudsman Alba Martijn, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams.

To all members of sports organizations and other sporting groups:

You are cordially invited to a meeting with the Minister of Sports, the Honorable Dr. Rhoda Arrindell on Thursday, July 14, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. at the A. C. Wathey Legislative Hall. You are asked to prepare to adequately discuss the following agenda points.

1. Sports in School
2. Increasing Participation in Sports
3. 2011 Sports Conference
4. Kingdom Games 2013

Your presence and full participation on July 14th, 2011 is of vital importance.

Cole Bay:--- United Peoples (UP) party Member of Parliament (MP) Jules James says the nation needs a Council for Science and Technology (CST) that would comprise of the nation's brightest, experienced as well as youngest to participate and advise Government with respect to science and technology trends and developments, policy issues and how the aforementioned can be applied to our countries national development.
MP Jules James was pleased to read last week that local power electronics experts Carl Duinkerk and business development professional Kareem Rombley was at the Smart Electricity World Latam Conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
The duo attended the conference to launch an energy production system that their company MangoGreen has been developing since 2007.
The system, called Renewable Power House system, produces utility scale reliable energy without using fossil fuel.
"We are now a country and we have to think outside the box. The proposed CST would not only comprise of researchers, engineers and entrepreneurs, but also of youthful minds. We can recall the great ideas offered by our students at the annual science fair.
"Countries with a CST as part of its national development model have proven what a crucial role they play in driving growth and creating jobs and opportunities for the future. Hence, why we need to also not only look at today and tomorrow, but also the future, the long-term," especially for our nations young people," United Peoples party MP Jules James said on Tuesday.
MP James added that the Sint Maarten CST would besides looking at strategic policy development, would also form links with other such councils; promote science and engineering technology as an integral part of our national culture; promote excellence in education; promote making more effective use of research and scientific advice in the development and delivery of policy and public services across Government, and promote innovation in business leading to the sustainable development of the national economy along with the health and quality of life issues of the people.
"We are a nation of intelligent and talented people with all kinds of ideas. The entrepreneurs of MangoGreen are a clear working example. The United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon recently underlined the role of science and technology in helping humanity to address global challenges such as climate change, infectious diseases, terrorism, hunger, disaster preparedness and nuclear disarmament.
"Much has been accomplished in the past half a century to bring scientists and policy-makers together to advance common interests in peace, security and human welfare world-wide.
"As country Sint Maarten, we need to explore our opportunities and move forward in this area. After the parliamentary recess, I intend to present a motion in parliament with respect to the formation of the CST," United Peoples party MP Jules James concluded.
Sint Maarten's CST could also become a member of the Caribbean Council for Science and Technology, founded in 1980, MP Jules James added. The Caribbean Council represents most of the Caribbean islands as well as Suriname and Guyana. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) designated the Caribbean Council for Science and Technology as the agency for coordinating and implementing CARICOM's policies in Science and Technology.

Yet another young artist was given the opportunity to realize his dream and showcase his talent, with the launch of his debut album, courtesy of NAGICO Insurances.
Stephen Rodney; who goes by the stage name 'Stretch R' launched his first album last week called 'Music n' Poetry' an enchanting and hilarious mix of dancehall music and rapchat poetry.

Stretch R is an upcoming artist, who is very popular on the island for his music and has made several on stage appearances during big events like Carnival and Heineken Regatta 2010, gives credit to NAGICO Insurances for their financial contribution.
"This is something I always wanted to do and have been working hard to accomplish for a long time, but you know times are hard so it has been difficult," he explained. "That is why I am extremely grateful to NAGICO, because when I approached them and outlined what I wanted to do, there was no hesitation at all from them and that is something I really respect, because most people and businesses you approach nowadays don't even entertain the thought of assisting anyone and for NAGICO to give me an opportunity like this I am very grateful."
The album which has 19 tracks are all written and produced by Stretch R and the respective collaborating artists. This he says will be released on the 27th of July, during the last week of Summer Speaks being held at Taloulah Mango's.

Marigot:--- Territorial Councilor Guillaume Arnell in an interview with SMN News said that St. Martin would have to adjust itself if they want to be a part of Europe. Arnell said that elected representatives of Saint Martin has to make sure that Europe understands that St. Martin is different in several ways than that of Central Europe before they implement measures here.
Arnell said before that can be done, St. Martin needs proper persons in the right positions to take the message to Brussels. He said unless St. Martin raises its scale politically then they would continue to discuss the islands' difficulties without finding the necessary solutions.
As for the budgetary problems, Arnell said the budget was never sincere because the budget must be balanced and it must be voted upon within a certain time frame. Arnell said all the budgets from St. Martin were insincere simply because those preparing the budget were making speculations on their incomes.
Arnell said because of the false speculations of income the expenses overthrew the income which left the RRR with no other choice but to file a request with the Prefet for him to have the Chambre Regional de Compte intervene. Arnell said it was because of the RRR group that the Prefet took measures with the budget and he is extremely angry at the Prefet who said that the local elected officials are irresponsible. Arnell said if anyone is to be considered irresponsible it's the State representative who did nothing with the budget until when the RRR group requested that he send the budget of the COM to the Chambre Regionale de Compte. Arnell said the Prefet on several occasions said the budget of the COM was balanced and now that the "shit has hit the fan" the Prefet should also assume his responsibilities. Arnell said the Chambre Regional de Compte wants St. Martin to increase Turn over Tax by 2% but that he said is not possible with the current economic situation. Arnell said the RRR formulated a motion which they sent back to the Chambre Regionale de Compte informing them that St. Martin cannot comply with their advice which is to increase the Turn over Tax since they cannot put additional burden to their people. Arnell said that the ruling party acted irresponsible when they chose to suppress the Tax de la Fortune. The Territorial Councilor said the leading party in government lacks vision even though their slogan says otherwise, he said the elected officials knew that St. Martin would have lost the Octre de Mer funds.

Arnell's Vision for the 2012 Elections.

Arnell said he made a commitment when he merged with other parties and they formed the RRR group. He said he would remain a part of the group he is currently with. He assured that he will not seek leadership in the coming elections. He said he will stand strong behind Alain Richardson. He also announced that he will definitely be a candidate for the upcoming legislative elections since he personally believes that St. Martin needs proper representation on the State level.

Pointe Blanche/Philipsburg:--- The Ministry of VROMI has rejected the claim of Naf. 86,000.00 guilders that was submitted by MNO Vervat for damages and loss of material the company suffered during an incident involving a police officer confirmed Minister Theodore Heyliger. Minister Heyliger said he also indicated to the company that they should have insurance policies in place that would cover such expenses, but the company indicated to government that the insurance they have does not cover willful loss of material and time.
The Minister said while his Ministry does not have the money to compensate MNO Vervat, he referred the company to the Ministry of Justice since the losses to the company was caused by one of the officers of law. Minister Heyliger also explained that companies that are working for government always find ways of getting more monies out of government. He said the accident that occurred that night was indeed terrible but he believes that companies have to cover all areas when it comes to road and other repairs with their insurance companies. The Minister maintained that VROMI does not have a huge budget and as such he will maintain that his Ministry is not able to pay the company for its losses.
Minister Heyliger said VROMI also submitted a request with the Ministry of Justice to have police officers assist the road crew while they are working at night to avoid such incidents in the future.
In the meantime, the police internal affairs have suspended officer Ashwin Martina pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation involving him and an MNO worker who was directing traffic on Pondfill road some two weeks ago.

GEBE is on track to introduce the new tariff structure as conditionally approved by the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications for August 1, 2011. A formal decision was made in June and GEBE management was informed at the same time.
The new tariff structure is based on an extensive study that was carried out by internationally renowned consultant KEMA in close consultation with the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure.
The study took place between 2009 and 2010 and the final report was submitted to GEBE management in March 2010. The main directive with respect to the study was for the consultant to study GEBE operations and what it costs to run the company especially looking at the fuel that has to be purchased abroad to supply the generators and keep them operational.
GEBE's old tariff structure dates back to 1960 when a barrel of oil was just US$2.63. At that time GEBE had a small operation with a minimal peak load of less than 1 Megawatt (MW). The tariff at that time was Naf.0.17/kilowatt hour and was sufficient to cover the operational costs of the company.
Today, over 50-years later, the island has grown by leaps and bounds with a population of approximately 50,000 with a considerable private sector. A barrel of oil now hovers around US$100 and the peak demand is no longer 1 MW as it was 50-years ago, but approximately 57 MW. The tariff of 50-years ago cannot cover all operational costs today and therefore a part of the operational costs are recovered via the present fuel clause.
With the current fuel clause formula, GEBE's revenues depend on the price of oil. When the world oil price is low GEBE's revenues drop and when the oil price is high the company's revenues increase, and consequently the company's viability depends on the price of oil which is beyond the control of company.
All experts agree that the current revenue structure of the company is too risky for a utility company and should be corrected, hence the introduction of a new tariff system. The new tariff system will take away the volatility by incorporating all the operational costs and needed margins to secure the long term viability of the company while at the same time having the fuel costs as a direct pass through only.
The fuel clause under the new tariff system will reflect the actual fuel component while all other costs will be in the base rate. The new base rate will be Naf 0.29 /kWh and the fixed charge will increase from Naf 17.50 to Naf 29.00 for regular households and from Naf 4.75 to Naf 7.25 for small households. The net effect will be that with rising fuel prices, the fuel clause will increase less than under the old tariff system. For a more detailed overview of the new tariff structure, visit www.nvgebe.com for more information.
However, the reality is that with global oil market prices hovering around US$100 per barrel, electricity on all oil importing Caribbean islands will be expensive. This is a fact that we and other Caribbean islands have to live in the short term.
Sint Maarten is not the only island that has this challenge of high electricity prices. Consumers in The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Dominica, Aruba, Curacao and many others have reported the same challenges. The fuel clause is a common pricing tool used by utility companies, and used throughout the Caribbean. On Curacao, Bonaire and Aruba it is known as the "Brandstof Clausule", on the Cayman Islands the "Fuel Levy" and in the USVI, it's known as the "Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause" or LEAC.
With fuel prices changing constantly, utility companies needed a way to adjust the bills in response to changing fuel prices. The fuel clause was included as a separate item on the bill so that consumers can easily see the changes in their bill as a result of the price of oil or fuel.
Recent reports from oil analysts and investors indicate that the supply of oil will remain tight due to the situation in oil producing Libya which has an on-going civil war. Libya used to export 1.5 million barrels daily and now this is no longer the case. This means that spare production capacity in other oil producing countries such as Saudi Arabia will erode quickly and for this reason pressure on oil prices will be substantial.
The International Energy Agency and the Energy Information Administration have warned that world demand for oil will outstrip supplies this year despite sluggish economic growth in the U.S. and Europe. Demand from China, and other emerging nations will drive global oil consumption for years to come.
GEBE recommends to its valued customers that conservation of electricity is necessary at this time of high global oil prices. Instead of using the air condition, use a fan; put a timer on your hot water heater, and switch to energy efficient light bulbs.
Energy conservation and efficiency must become a way of life and practiced in every aspect of people's lives. If you take measures to protect yourself against increases in oil prices, you will be better off.
For more energy conservation tips visit the GEBE website at www.nvgebe.com.

Philipsburg:--- The government of St. Maarten is considering holding the supervisory board of GEBE responsible for its' managements' non compliance in providing information and its' tariff structure to Government announced Minister of Energy and Water Theodore Heyliger at the Council of Ministers press conference on Wednesday. Minister Heyliger said the government of St. Maarten sent numerous letters to the management of GEBE requesting information on its plans to rectify the constant water loss which is at the expense of the people of St. Maarten but to date that information was not sent to them. Heyliger said that the letter that was sent to the supervisory board indicated that government will take the necessary steps to hold them (supervisory board) responsible for its' managements' in action. Heyliger said government is also looking into ways to hold the foundation that manages GEBE responsible for the company's failure. He clarified that while there is public perception that Government is the shareholder representative, it is the foundation that governs GEBE that holds the share and that he said has placed government in a peculiar position. Heyliger said the only instrument government has at its disposal and can use to bring GEBE to order is its concession with government.
The Minister said he also indicated to the board of directors that if management failed to comply with the ten points he addressed to them in his letters then government will seek to cancel its concession agreement. Three of the five letters were sent to GEBE on July 19th addressing both the water loss and the tariff structure for electricity.
In the letters sent to GEBE, the Minister said the water loss has increased from 22% to 34.4% which resulted from GEBE's negligence. So far government does not have GEBE plans on how they intend to reduce the water losses. According to the projections, the company is losing 1.7 million guilders per M³ per year with the minimum value of Naf. 500,000.00 per year, therefore government believes that the losses should be at GEBE's account due to their own inefficiencies.
Click here to view the letter sent to GEBE by the Minister of Energy and Water on Electricity Concession.
Click here to view the letter sent to GEBE by the Minister of Energy and Water on Water Supply Agreement.
Click here to view the letter sent to GEBE by the Minister of Energy and Water to Supervisory Board.

Simpsonbay:--- Red Cross St. Maarten has joined the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies via The Netherlands Red Cross in an Emergency appeal to assist millions facing drought and hunger in Kenya.

More than 3.2 million Kenyans are now classified as food insecure and in desperate need of assistance as a severe drought continues to ravage many parts of the country.

In light of this alarming statistic, which has risen from 2.4 million since March this year, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is today launching an emergency appeal for 14.7m Swiss francs (17.9m US dollars / 12.4m Euros) to raise vital funds and provide assistance to the men, women and children who continue to face unimaginable suffering and hardship as a result of the worst regional drought in 60 years.

"Today we witnessed people simply collapsing from hunger and exhaustion, many having not eaten for several days," says the IFRC's Alexander Matheou who is in Turkana, the northwestern most district in Kenya, one of the worst affected regions where malnutrition rates are double the emergency levels.

2011 has been classified as the driest year on record in the Eastern Horn of Africa, and the health, livelihoods and food security of millions of Kenyans continues to be put at serious risk. According to the Famine Early Warning System Network (FEWSNET), an estimated 700,000 people in the Northern part of the country (Turkana, Pokot, Marsabit, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa Counties) could be classified as highly food insecure.

The current and predicted need in affected areas far outweighs the current humanitarian response. With no likelihood of improvement until early 2012, the situation in many parts of Kenya remains dire and requires large scale and sustained humanitarian interventions.

Red Cross Sint Maarten is appealing to the General Public of Sint Maarten to join in the effort and send all monetary donations to the following Sint Maarten Red Cross Windward Islands & RBTT Bank Accounts:

WIB NAF. 809.809.00
WIB USD. 809.809.02
RBTT NAF. 400.68.412
RBTT NAF. 403.85.191

For more information please contact:

Mrs. Marjan van der Steen - Manager of Red Cross St. Maarten
Tel. (599) 545-2333/2304 – Fax (599) 545-5263 – Cell (599) 586-5327

ST. MAARTEN:--- On Wednesday, July 27th from 6-9pm, Porto Cupecoy will host its 4th Summer Concert Series event. These weekly concerts have turned into the season's "must see" events. This week is set to be another groundbreaking concert with Uruguay's Candombe drum master, Tatita Marquez. Coming off of his recent hit appearance at the South African World Cup, Tatita Marquez has gained international acclaim, performing worldwide in Argentina, Brazil, U.S., Spain, France, and Chile. Using candombe fusion with contemporary percussion, Tatita will be adding to the untouchable momentum and success of the Summer Concert Series! Admission is FREE, and the restaurants and shops at Porto Cupecoy have special offerings for concert guests. Porto Cupecoy Marina offers free dockage for event guests that call in advance - 599 545 3300. The Summer Concert Series is sponsored by Porto Cupecoy, La Samanna, and Orient-Express. Visit the Arts in the Plaza Facebook page for event schedule and details.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Honourable Minister of Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges on Tuesday received a courtesy visit from Sint Maarten's Acting Governor His Excellency Reynold Groeneveldt.

Philipsburg:--- The Red Cross St. Maarten has announced that it has joined the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), via the Netherlands Red Cross in an emergency appeal to assist millions facing hunger in the area known as the Horn of Africa due to severe drought.

The Red Cross St. Maarten is appealing to the general public to join the effort by sending monetary donations to the St. Maarten Red Cross Windward Islands Bank and RBTT Bank accounts.

President of Parliament drs. Gracita Arrindell said that the United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has stressed the need for urgent funding to carry out critical humanitarian efforts in the Horn of Africa and assist the millions suffering from famine and drought in the region.

"What is going on is a human catastrophe. An estimated 11.6 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. For example, that would be in comparison to a Caribbean population of 33 million, 1/3 of our people would be facing a famine. This is a real tragedy of what is happening in Africa.

"I also appeal to our nation to help and contribute what you can by making a donation to the St. Maarten Red Cross. As a small island nation that faced our own natural disasters, we must never forget, and assist other countries whenever we can, no matter how large they are in size of population.

"If you are able to help our fellow human beings in need, check with the two banks where accounts are open to accept donations, namely the Windward Island Bank and RBTT," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Wednesday.

Millions in Ethiopia, Dijbouti, Kenya and Somalia are facing severe food shortages with rates of malnutrition and related deaths having reached alarming levels in many parts of the region.

Somalia is the worst affected country.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- On Thursday afternoon the Cabinet of the Minister of Plenipotentiary received a courtesy visit from representatives of the Anne Frank Foundation and Librarians from Aruba and Sint Maarten.

The purpose of the visit was to discuss a reading project to be organized by the Anne Frank Foundation in Amsterdam in collaboration with the Public Libraries of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Sint Maarten, Saba and Sint Eustatius catering to young people between the age of 9 through 14-years of age.

Philipsburg:--- Some twelve workers of the St. Maarten Ports Services are expected to be out of work as of August 12 2011 according to the letter that was given to a selected group of workers on Thursday July 28th 2011.
The letter states that Tropical Shipping has terminated their agreement with St. Maarten Port Services (SMPS) and their contract with the company ended since February 2011 while Crowley Shipping has informed the company that St. Maarten is not a profitable market for them and as such they cancelled their agreement with St. Maarten Ports Services (SMPS). The General Manager of SMPS said in his letter to the workers that the company tried to replace the loose cargo business in order to re-establish their warehouse operation and that has been unsuccessful. SMPS said with only one shipping service they are forced to reduce their operations personnel.
The twelve employees who were notified on Thursday are permanent workers of the company but management claims that they are not able to find suitable positions for them within the company.
The mutual termination goes into effect as of August 12 2011. The employees will get their gross salary until the date of termination and they will also be paid for their unused vacation days. SMPS will also pay the workers their severance payment to the sum of Naf. 5,191.92 gross which they said is based 100% on the workers "cessantia payments" which should amount to three months salaries. The company also offers to pay the workers an additional three months salary which also amounts to Naf. 5,192.92 should they agree to the mutual termination.
It should be noted that SMPS encountered the same problem in 2009 when the company submitted a request at the labour department to lay off all 40 of its workers when they were notified that Tropical Shipping had intended to terminate its contract with SMPS. The owners of SMPS later sold the company in May last year to the Gioia brothers. The court had also ruled that Tropical was within its rights to terminate its contract with SMPS.
So far the new owners of SMPS did not submit a request at the labour department to terminate its workers. SMN News contacted the labour department on Friday and they said they did not receive any request for termination from SMPS.
Minister of Labour Cornelius De Weever said he had no knowledge of the company's intention to terminate its workers up to late Friday afternoon.

Click here to view the letter that was sent to the employees.

Philipsburg:--- The Police Internal Affairs is busy investigating a detective identified as Jerry Gerardus who was stopped by American Border Control on his way back to St. Maarten last week. SMN News learnt that the detective travelled to the United States with 11 other persons, all members of his family where they spent their summer vacation.
The source said that the detective and his relatives claimed they gave a woman (Runella Nicholas) just over $300.00 each to buy return tickets from St. Maarten to the USA for the group. However, on their way back to the St. Maarten the American Border Control stopped them claiming they had phony tickets. The group was held for two days by the border control agency who eventually allowed them to purchase new tickets for each passenger to return to St. Maarten.
The source said the person who bought the tickets online concocted a deal where she managed to purchase the tickets at an extremely low price. Further investigations also revealed that the person who purchased the tickets for the group used a stolen credit card to make the purchase. No details on the owner of the credit card was revealed.
SMN News learnt that the detective in questioned filed charges against the person whom he claimed to have given the money to purchase the ticket for him and his relatives to travel. The prosecutor's office has issued an arrest warrant for the woman in question. Up to late Sunday the woman was not arrested.
SMN News further learnt that another detective questioned a woman identified as Runella Nicholas, a casino worker and alleged culprit who bought the tickets. The alleged culprit guaranteed the investigating detective that detective Jerry Gerardus will be reimbursed. The source said the detective failed to arrest Nicholas even though he knew that she purchased the tickets with a stolen credit card. The source said the suspect is a close friend of the wife of detective Jerry Gerardus.
However, the police internal affairs have launched an investigation into the detective's roll in purchasing the tickets for such a low price. The source said the police management team is trying to determine how the detective could hire someone who is not a travel agent or tour guide to purchase return tickets to St. Maarten for less than half of the regular price during the high season. If it is concluded that the detective (J.G) had any shady dealings with the purchase of the tickets then an advice will be sent to the Minister of Justice for disciplinary measures to be taken against detective Gerardus.
The Police Internal Affairs is also investigating Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson whom it is alleged tried to get one of his colleagues to tamper with evidence in a robbery investigation. SMN News learnt that a detective who has been identified as detective "Thomas" filed a complaint against Henson after Henson it is alleged approached him and asked him to remove certain information on a report he complied on a robbery investigation.
The source said someone filed a robbery complaint with the detective department and they pointed out that the getaway car that was used in the robbery matches the car that is driven by the son of the police spokesman. The source said the person who filed the complaint even told police where the vehicle is normally parked. "Henson allegedly approached Thomas, one of our younger detectives and told him to take the information out of his report because he has his son under control." The revelation of what the police spokesman allegedly did angered a number of his colleagues since Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson has been in police force for more than 30 years and most importantly he is a veteran detective that was spotless.
Earlier this year, the police arrested the younger Henson when a gun was found in his vehicle on Pond Island.
In an invited comment, Chief of Police Peter De Witte confirmed that an investigation in both cases is underway. De Witte refused to divulge any information in the ongoing investigations.
Police Internal Affairs is also busy conducting investigations into four other cases which involved Officers Joyce Hassel, officer Servania, as well as Ashwin Martin and brigadier Felix Richards. It should be noted that Ashwin Martin has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

Miss St. Maarten Carnival Trumane Trotman has returned to her island from the Jaycees Caribbean Queen Pageant in a positive frame of mind: "I may have not won the crown but I've won lasting friendships, expanded my network, learned new modeling skills and most importantly represented my country to the best of my abilities."

Trumane competed against 15 other young women from around the Caribbean last Friday in Antigua. Miss St. Kitts won the crown, while Miss Dominica, Miss Anguilla and Miss St. Lucia took first, second and third places respectively. Trumane is not dismayed however, having used the opportunity to promote St. Maarten.

"Being St. Maarten's ambassador in Antigua every event or function I've been too I tried my best to promote my island and inform them of our culture and our diversity with over 150 different nationalities," she said.

"St. Maarten has been quite dormant in the regional pageant industry compared to the past where we were the host island of one of one of the biggest pageants regionally, the PJD2 Caribbean Queen Pageant. We have experience, but we can learn from these other pageants as well and keep trying to bring one of those crowns to St. Maarten," she said.

Trumane said her next pageant will be Miss. Global International in September in Jamaica and "I'm ready to begin my preparations and would like the continued support of my fellow St. Maarteners and hope that my story and life experience would be an inspiration to others. Special thank you goes out to my chaperons, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) and the Jaycees committee who has been by my side throughout the way and to everyone for their support and well wishes."

The SCDF said it remains very proud of Trumane and the way she represented herself and her country. "We will keep trying, we will keep supporting our queen. The important thing is to be consistent on an annual basis with these regional pageants. We look, we learn, we adjust. We have a candidate in Trumane who loves her country and jumps at the opportunity to represent us. She may not have won this time, but she left a St. Maarten impression on Antigua wherever she went," the SCDF said.

Cole Bay:--- United Peoples (UP) party Member of Parliament (MP) Jules James says that many Latin American countries will be disappointed after Christine Lagarde was appointed to the top position of Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this week. Lagarde will take up her new five-year position on July 5.
James said that the main topic of discussion in May when he attended a Parlatino Economic Affairs Committee for Social Debt and Development meeting in Cuba, was who should be appointed to fill the vacancy of the IMF which has 187 member countries. The organization was established in 1944.
"The preference in the meeting was for somebody from Latin America or the developing world to head the international financial organization. The top position became available when Dominique Strauss-Kahn resigned due to legal issues in New York.
"The IMF's 24-member Executive Board started a month long selection process that started on May 20. Mexico's Central Bank Governor Agustin Carstens was the other candidate for the Managing Director position.
"When it comes to these international organizations, a lot of pressure is placed on countries to support a specific candidate, so you have a lot of international politics playing a role. In our meeting we discussed this specific issue and that changes were needed when it comes to the appointment of persons in such international bodies.
"Everybody was in agreement that these organizations should not just be an expression of developed countries, but should represent and reflect the other global economic powers in the world. Emphasis was also placed on the IMF playing a more supportive roll to developing countries," MP Jules James said on Thursday in response to the appointment of the new IMF Managing Director.
MP James added that there was a broad consensus among the Parlatino delegates to better position the Latin American community of nations when it comes to vacancies for the Managing Director position and the IMF Executive Board.
The Parlatino committee passed a motion to that effect: to request the bodies concerned, to consider the needs of other countries to preside over the economic entity, IMF, the countries grouped in the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) as well as Chile and Mexico.
The IMF is an organization that is working to foster global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world.
The Parlatino committee meeting took place at Hotel Barcelo, Havana Cuba. Over 40 countries were represented which included but not limited to Aruba, Curacao, Venezuela, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, Paraguay, Panama, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Honourable Minister of Plenipotentiary Mathias Voges on Friday, July 1st emancipation day laid a wreath on behalf of the people and Government of Sint Maarten at the Slave Monument.

The Dutch National Institute of Dutch Slavery Past and Heritage organized a ceremony at Oosterpark in Amsterdam.

Respectfully,

2011 TAPRC Board

Jeff Borowick - Chairperson

Tenants' Association Pelican Resort Club (TAPRC)

...

Guadeloupe:--- An international operation between Flensburg and the French and Spanish authorities has allowed the French Coast Guard to apprehend two Germans on board a yacht which was moving towards St. Maarten on July 2nd 2011 with 1.1 ton of cocaine on board. The operation started since September 2009 between the BKA and the French and Spanish authorities whose mission was to identify the perpetrators of a multinational group that was suspected of smuggling large quantities of cocaine from the Caribbean to Europe.
The Yacht it is believed left Grenada and anchored close to Venezuela before they began moving towards St. Maarten on the night of July 2nd 2011 when the two Germans were captured. A raid on the 13m long vessel led authorities to 1127 kilos of cocaine worth 42 million Euros announced a Flensburg Prosecutor. The illegal substance was hidden behind professional wall coverings inside the vessel. Authorities conducted searches in Hamburg and they managed to seize 400,000.00 Euros in cash and 900,000.00 in assets as well as documents and electronic devices.
Details on the heist were not made locally, but were reported in a German newspaper.

Fort Willem:--- The Detective Department is busy investigating the eighth homicide for the year which took place early Thursday morning in Fort Willem. Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh confirmed that 37 year old Rodolfo Arrindell was shot to death in the presence of his wife around 02:00 am on Thursday morning in front of his home.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the shooting took place at 2:00am in the Fort Willem area. Henson said the victim was in his car when he was shot to death.
SMN News learnt that the shooters fired several shots at Arrindell killing him instantly. Sources say this latest killing appears to be drug related. They said police recovered about six spent shells at the scene and that the victim was shot multiple times.
The victim is the brother of the late Miguel Arrindell, owner of the Cappuccino bar who was also shot to death some weeks ago in Cole Bay. Rodolfo Arrindell better known as Fofo owns a Jewelry Repair Shop on Front Street. He was also a member of Robbie's Lottery Stars Soft Ball team. SMN News learnt that the victim played Wednesday night against Windward Islands Lions at the Jose Lake Ball Park and he was celebrating with his team at the end of the game since he had hit a three run homer.

Philipsburg:--- The Ombudsman, Dr. Nilda Arduin-Lynch, paid a courtesy visit to the General Audit Chamber during the week of July 4th to introduce her colleague, Mrs. Alba Martijn from the Bureau Ombudsman Curaçao. The Ombudsman of Curaçao is on a weeklong working visit to Sint Maarten. The chairman of the General Audit Chamber, Mr. Roland Tuitt, received Mrs. Arduin-Lynch and Mrs. Martijn at the offices of the Audit Chamber.
During the introductory visit to the General Audit Chamber, the Chairman, Mr. Roland Tuitt took the opportunity to present this first annual report of the General Audit Chamber to the Ombudsman, Mrs. Arduin-Lynch. Mr. Tuitt provided a short explanation of the contents of the Annual Report that was presented to the Parliament as well as the Governor on June 28 and June 29 respectively. The Annual Report of the General Audit Chamber is required by law to be presented to the Governor and Parliament prior to July 1st of each year.
Mr. Tuitt also provided his guests with a short tour of the office. The General Audit Chamber is a High Council of State that was formally established on October 10th 2010. Since its inception the Audit Chamber has been finalizing various projects related to the fitting out of the institution as well as preparing activities related to the core tasks of the institution.
The primary task of the General Audit Chamber is to audit government by examining whether public expenditures occurred within legal parameters, but also to determine whether expenditures and policy are effective and efficient. The General Audit Chamber is comprised of a three person board, including a full time chairman, Mr. R. Tuitt. The other members are Mr. Ronald Halman and Mr. Alphons Gumbs. In addition, there are two replacement members, Mr. Mark Kortenoever and Mr. Daniel Hassell.

Pointe Blanche/Cay Hill:--- The parents of baby Jariska Porchette are calling on the owner and caregivers at the Jack and Jill Day Care Centre in Pointe Blanche to come clean and tell them exactly what happened to their six month old daughter on Friday.
Soranyi and Jiffaund Porchette said that their six month old daughter has two broken legs and is currently a patient at the St. Maarten Medical Center and the caregivers at Jack Jill Dare Care still cannot tell them how their daughter's legs got broken.
Soranyi said that when she went to pick up her baby around 5:30pm on Friday afternoon, the first thing she was told is that her baby is a coward. She said when she arrived at the school the caregiver had her baby in her hands and she said "your daughter is a coward, I could not understand why she said that because my daughter is a very social baby. When I tried to take my baby from her, I saw she was holding on to her (the caregiver) very tightly and she was perspiring. I asked the teacher what is wrong with Jariska and she said that maybe she wants to sleep. I eventually got my baby from her and when she got into my arms she also held on to me tightly, but when I put her in her seat in the car she began crying," Soranyi said. The young mother said when she got home which is next door to the play school she tried to feed her baby and even tried to put her to sleep but she would not let go of her and she was perspiring very much. Soranyi said she is a student at USM and she had homework to complete while having an examination that same day so she left her baby with her husband and went to school. She said while in school she noticed that her husband tried calling her but her phone was on silent. "When I saw it was my husband who was calling me I called him back and he told me that our daughter was acting strangely and she was even trembling. I hurried home and again we called the owner and caregiver of Jack and Jill and they kept saying nothing is wrong with Jariska and that the teacher must have played a little too rough with her. The teacher told me that she was throwing my daughter up and she got scared and began to cry and that is why she said that my baby was a coward."
Jiffaund said while his wife was in school he called his mother and he told her that his daughter was acting strangely and his mother told him to bring the baby over so she could pray with her. He said that when he took his baby to his mother she saw the child was perspiring and she decided that she will give her a sponge bath and will examine the baby to see if she was injured. "It was while my mom was checking her she realised when she touched her left leg she would scream, closer inspection of the leg revealed that there was a slight mark and the leg was swollen. When my mother saw that, she instructed us to take the baby to the emergency room. At the St. Maarten Medical Center, an x-ray was performed on my daughter and the doctors saw that both her legs are broken. Baby Jariska may have to spend the next two to three weeks at the St. Maarten Medical Center." Jiffaund and his wife said they called the owner and caregiver of Jack Jill Day Care Center that night and they maintained that nothing went wrong at the school. He said he needs to know who intentionally broke his daughter's legs because the surgeon at the St. Maarten Medical Center told them that even if the child had fallen from a two storey building, her legs could not have broken the way it did. "Both my daughter legs are broken almost at the same location. It appears as though someone pressed on both her legs and broke it and the only people who can tell us who did it are the care givers at the school. Jiffaund and his wife Soranyi already filed a complaint with the detective department. Their intention is to visit the Court of Guardianship, Youth Health and Welfare and the Prosecutors Office on Monday as they seek justice and answers from Jack and Jill Day Care Center.

Philipsburg:--- The Police Internal Affairs are busy conducting an investigation into the fracas that took place Friday night involving Major Ashwin Martina confirmed Chief Commissioner of Police Peter De Witte. De Witte also confirmed that Major Ashwin Martina is currently on probation for attacking and beating a Checkmate Security Guard who was stationed at the Megaplex Cinema. It should also be noted that Martina was also involved in the UP Vote buying scandal as well in another incident in Simpson Bay.
On Friday night, Officer Martina was under the influence of alcohol when he fought with a worker from MNO Vervat who was directing traffic on Pondfill road in the vicinity of the entrance to Foreign Affairs and the home of former Police Inspector, the late Wilfred Marsdin. According to eye witnesses, the officer drove his car on the road where MNO Vervat workers were busy patching and refused to use the side entrance that was being used to divert traffic. The fight Friday night landed Officer Martina and an MNO Vervat supervisor in the hospital after the latter was hit by a rock in his face.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- The Inspection Department would like to inform school bus owners that the annual pre-new school year inspection is scheduled from July 27 – 29.

The inspection will take place at the Jose Lake Sr. Ball Park parking lot on the aforementioned days from 8.00am – 12.00pm and 2.00pm – 4.00pm. School bus owners can call the department at telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509 for an appointment during the scheduled inspection period.

The Inspection Department is urging all school bus owners to have their vehicles checked out by a mechanic and make sure that everything is in good working order prior to the annual school bus inspection.

The Control Unit would like to thank the public for their cooperation during the past school year with respect to observing the rules of the road where it concerns school buses when they pick-up school children or disembark.

The Inspection Department and Control Unit are looking forward to the public's full support for the new school year 2011/2012, and wishes all students and parents a happy summer vacation.

Philipsburg:--- Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin is calling on the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan to provide his faction in Parliament with more information on the contract he signed with Checkmate Security to provide more manpower for the Pointe Blanche Prison.
Marlin told reporters on Wednesday afternoon at a press conference that it came to his understanding that one of the security guards working at the Pointe Blanche Prison was held by immigration since the individual was in possession of a fraudulent Brooks Tower Accord receipt. The Member of Parliament said he was told that the person in question is held pending deportation.
However, Chief Executive Officer of Checkmate Security Michael Kuiperi said his guard was detained on Thursday during a traffic control and was released on Friday after his documents were checked by immigration. Kuiperi identified the security officer as Errol Isaac from Guyana whom he said had working permits since 2008 under Checkmate Security. Kuiperi said the guard's work permit was renewed in 2009 while the request for the renewal of his working permit for 2010 is still pending.
Kuiperi further explained that the security guard wanted to make sure his status is legal on St. Maarten and since he did not get his 2010 working permit as yet, the guard panicked and when heard of the opportunity to submit new applications late last year at the BTA office he did file an application to obtain a Brooks Tower Permit. "I want to make clear that the security guard who was detained did not have any fraudulent documents. He was stopped during a random traffic control because his vehicle did not have on the front number plate and when the officers saw he had a BTA receipt they held him. Errol Isaac submitted two requests for his working and residency permit at immigration and to date he has not received an answer from immigration."
Marlin also said that he was told that one of the security guards that is providing manpower assistance to the prison has a criminal record overseas, yet he was hired by the security company and was placed at the prison to work.
When asked about that, Kuiperi said he does not have anyone in his employ that has a criminal record. He said some time ago he hired an Antillean young man who was working for the Coast Guard but this person was dismissed about six months ago because he fought with a police officer on St. Maarten.
Member of Parliament William Marlin called on the Minister of Justice to provide answers on the contract he signed with Checkmate. Marlin said he also wants to know if there is a written contract with the security company or if this is another verbal decree issued by the Minister of Justice or if the agreement is between the director of the prison and the security company.
Marlin said he hopes the Minister of Justice can provide the much needed clarity on the specifics of the agreement regarding Checkmate Security Guards. He said he also wants to know if the guards that are providing much needed manpower at the prison were screened as required by law. Marlin said the Minister is not above the law even though he indicated to Parliament during the budget debate that "Government is the law, which would indicate that government is above the law."
Marlin said if there is a written agreement he wants to know what the financial consequences of the agreement are to government and he also wants to know how many security officers are provided by the company to the prison. Marlin said based on the law, civil servants are required to take an oath, while they are subjected to screening. Marlin said he would like to know if the persons who are providing services at the prison were screened and if they were, who did the screening.
Checkmate Security CEO Michael Kuiperi said he has been providing officers to the Pointe Blanche Prison for the past four years. He said his first agreement with the Minister of Justice of the former Netherlands Antilles started four years ago where he has to provide 12 officers to the Pointe Blanche house of detention. The Checkmate officers Kuiperi said, works under direct supervision of the prison and their duty is to assist the prison guards. Kuiperi confirmed that his contract was renewed early 2011 with St. Maarten. Some of the security guards working for Checkmate that are stationed at the Pointe Blanche Prison were given some in-house training confirmed a member of the management team of the house of detention.

Marigot:--- Opposition leader Alain Richardson told reporters on Thursday that he feels that the President should have taken the opportunity on Bastille Day to inform the Prefet that he crossed the line when he said the Territorial Council is irresponsible. Richardson said if the Prefet knew the French Constitution he would not have crossed the line when he made his statements.
Richardson said the President should have affirmed the authority of the council in his speech but for some reason the President did not address the issue. Richardson said Bastille Day celebrations were the ideal time for the President to re-instate what is in the Organic Law stating that the Collectivity of St. Martin is autonomous. Richardson said he intends to officially respond to the Prefet early next week about the statements he made regarding the motion they presented. Richardson said that at no time they will accept the advice the Chambre Regional de Compte gave by increasing TOT by 2%. This he said would put additional pressure on those that are already contributing to the fiscal system, Richardson said St. Martin is paying the State to carry out certain services for them one of which is the collection of taxes. Richardson said the services granted by the Treasure Public are more that poor and that is what the State representative should work on. Increasing TOT will have serious repercussions on ones buying power but it also has a crippling effect on how business is conducted in a competitive market.
Richardson said the motion presented to the Chambre Regional Compte is to make sure the State enhances the State services in collecting the taxes, while the State should give St. Martin its full compensation of the Transfer of Competences.
Responding to questions as to how he Richardson feels now that elected officials are being investigated. Richardson said that from the time the Union pour les Progres took office there has been a pattern. That pattern he said has to do with the President who has to leave his seat because he was condemned by the court. He said recently the President and the DGS was condemned by the court and now a vice president and civil servant is under investigation. Richardson said he will not judge neither will he condemn anyone but the pattern nor image of the COM is not serving St. Martin well and St. Martin's leaders must follow the rules and regulations laid down. The elected he said should be the first ones to set example and therefore these matters will be part of the election debate in the next few months. Good Governance he said will be on their agenda for the upcoming year.

The St. Maarten Futsal Association (SMFA) is in high gear making preparations for their annual tournament, which is again being sponsored by NAGICO Insurances.

The board of the SMFA says the 2011 Futsal tournament is set to begin on Sunday July 24th at the LB Scott Auditorium on the Illidge Road. As is customary the tournament promises to be exciting and will run from July to mid-December.

This year's tournament will consist of a senior, a veteran and a youth division. The SMFA says that 16 teams have signed up for the senior competition o far and because of this huge interest this year, they have decided to give first preference of registration to the returning teams and new teams will be treated as a first come first served basis.

NAGICO has been a loyal sponsor of the SMFA since their inception four years ago and is pleased to be part of the 2011 season.

"We are proud to be the major sponsor of the Futsal tournament for the fourth year in a row," Marketing Officer; Jimmy Challenger said. "We wish all the participating teams much success and encourage the public at large to come out and support the games."

Newly elected President of the SMFA; Steven Tjin Aton gave an overview of how the games would run. "In the first round of the competition the senior teams will be divided into 4 groups and the top 2 teams of each group will advance to the final 8 and battle for the NAGICO Super League Cup," he explained. "The remaining teams will battle for the NAGICO Division Cup and the youth and veterans will battle in a Round-Robin for the Youth and Senior Cup."
Some of these teams include: Paradise-Inn, Flames United etc. Meanwhile, the SMFA elected a new board on the 19th of June 2011, naming Tjin Aton as their new president, Norbert Graves as treasurer, Michael Henry - Secretary, John Philips and Edson Oehlers as Commissioners. This board will run for a term of 4 years.

Philipsburg:--- An apparently mentally ill man was acting strangely on Monday on A.T. Illidge Road next to Microdevice. He destroyed the front window of the building and took off running when he saw police, reported Acting Police Spokesman Geronimo Juliet. Juliet said the man went as far as jumping into the sewage next to the Fresh Pond. Police, he said managed to convince the man to get out of the sewage before they alerted the Mental Health Foundation.

Several Break-ins Reported.

Police were directed to G. Clement de Weever road where unknown persons were breaking into a car reported acting police spokesman Geronimo Juliet. Juliet said when the patrol arrived at the scene they saw a grey Kia Rio with number plate M-8748 in the same road with persons acting suspiciously. When they noticed the patrol, two of them took off running. The officers managed to arrest one of the suspects. Further down the street, they found a white Hyundai Accent with number plate R-497 with the glass of the left back door destroyed. Both cars were taken to the police station pending further investigation.
In an unrelated incident, two unknown men entered a Chinese Supermarket at the Keys road and threatened the owner with a knife. Juliet said the bandits went into the cash register and took $80.00. Juliet gave description of the suspects: One of them is 1.73 meters and has a dark complexion. He was wearing an orange T-shirt and brown short pants when he committed the crime. While the second suspect is 1.75 meters and has a dark complexion and he wore a black T-shirt.
Juliet said between July 17th and 18th, unknown persons stole four tires from a Nissan Almera which was parked on Welfare Road. The suspects drove away in white car after committing the crime.
In another case, a lady was watching television at her home on Davis Drive when an unknown man stuck his head through her window holding a firearm and demanded money. Juliet said the lady got frightened and ran out of her house. The police spokesman said when the woman got outside she encountered another man outside. Juliet said the woman took off running and headed towards her sister's house.

Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister Theodore Heyliger sent a strong message to the supervisory board of the United Telecommunication Services (UTS) on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers press briefing. The Minister said the political developments on Curacao will have adverse effects on St. Maarten. As for UTS, the Minister said it is a large company in Curacao and while St. Maarten has shares in the company the island still does not have any board members on the supervisory board that can look out for St. Maartens' interests. Heyliger said while the politicians on Curacao are boasting on how much UTS is investing in their country and other countries it behooves St. Maarten to look at its position within the company. Heyliger said instead of UTS trying to purchase TELEM he believes that the time has come for St. Maarten to acquire the assets (its shares) in UTS on St. Maarten so that St. Maarten could control its own destiny and not leave it in the hands of Curacao's politicians. Heyliger said Curacao politicians are able to sit and direct supervisory boards and directors in government owned companies while on St. Maarten politicians have an arm's length approach.
The Deputy Prime Minister said St. Maarten still is sharing in about 15 companies with Curacao and he believes it is time for St. Maarten to take its assets or sell off its shares to Curacao so that country St. Maarten could move forward and not get entangled in Curacao's political sphere.
Minister Heyliger said UTS has donated to several schools on Curacao who now have high speed internet as well as television. Heyliger said that Curacao's Prime Minister can now speak to every school on Curacao with the push of a button which is also paid for by UTS St. Maarten and Curacao. Heyliger said he is looking forward to see if the company will make the same types of investment in St. Maarten schools. "I want to see high speed internet and television in St. Maarten's schools also," Heyliger said.
Heyliger said the matter was discussed in the Council of Ministers and they have decided to evaluate their possibilities which have to be in St. Maarten's best interest. Heyliger said already St. Maarten's share holder representative Minister Duncan expressed St. Maartens' concerns on not having anyone on UTS supervisory board.
Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams said Minister Duncan even requested that at least two persons from St. Maarten be placed on the UTS supervisory board. The Council of Ministers she said has decided to evaluate all its shares in the other companies.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams condemns the attack against Government institutions and a group of young people attending a political rally in Norway on Friday.

Reports coming in are still developing as Police and other security officials investigate who is responsible for the attack along with the motive.

A massive bomb exploded in the Capital city Oslo Friday afternoon killing seven persons up to Friday afternoon. The bomb detonated in an area of the city which houses the Prime Minister's office and many government ministries.

A number of persons have either been killed or wounded in an attack at a youth rally on an island outside the city of Oslo.

"On behalf of the people and Government of Sint Maarten, we condemn this attack that has taken place and extend our condolences to those who have perished and express our nation's sympathy to those who have been injured," Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams said on Friday.

Prime Minister Wescot pointed out at the International Criminal Justice Day last Sunday that as a young country, "...we are duty bound to incessantly note with interest and concern what is playing out on regional and global stages."

The Prime Minister added that international and trans-border crimes are daily realities: "And thus the administration of international criminal justice has its place in the fight against crime globally."

With respect to foreign relations which fall under the Kingdom Government, the Prime Minister said that this needed to be a topic of discussion when the future of the Kingdom is discussed later this year.

"Sint Maarten has always been a very open society. Open and sometimes vulnerable because of our small scale, our economy, and our location.

"In our new constitutional status, it is still a work in progress how we define foreign relations and how it is administered. Yes, of course, technically speaking, one of the areas left unchanged by the constitutional reforms within the Dutch Kingdom is that of foreign relations.

"However over the years that delineation of responsibility for foreign relations has shifted to allow more manoeuvring by the individual countries. Not only have the relationships in the Kingdom evolved, but shifts have taken place globally as well. With justification, we often speak of a global village. "The interdependence on each other and the constant power and political shifts have made the global landscape a rather dynamic one.

"Within the Kingdom, we see more and more that areas such as foreign relations are not static matters either, and I believe that there is an added urgency to address these areas and their structures, given the constitutional changes and global and regional realities.

"Much more content needs to be given to the Charter's mandate that Kingdom matters must be as much as possible regulated in consonance with the countries of the Kingdom," Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams concluded.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulates new Secretary General designate of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Irwin LaRocque (56) on his appointment.

The selection was announced by CARICOM Chairman Prime Minister of St. Kitts & Nevis Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas. He reportedly said, "My colleague Heads of Government and I believe that Ambassador LaRocque possesses the requisite skills of visionary leadership, courage and commitment required to guide the Community at this time of change and uncertainty."

At the Conclusion of the 32nd Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, held in Basseterre, St. Kitts from June 30-July 4, the Heads of Government reviewed the recommendations made by the Search Committee for the post of Secretary General of CARICOM. They agreed to conduct interviews with the short-listed candidates within two weeks and committed themselves to making a decision on the new Secretary General shortly thereafter.

LaRocque, a national of Dominica replaces Sir Edwin Carrington of Trinidad & Tobago. He will serve as the seventh Secretary General of the regional body.

"I take this opportunity to congratulate Irwin LaRocque as designate Secretary General of CARICOM on behalf of the people and Government of Sint Maarten, and wish him much success with the responsibilities that he has been given to continue to move CARICOM forward," Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams said on Friday.

LaRocque is currently Assistant Secretary General for Trade and Economic Integration at the CARICOM Secretariat in Guyana, having served in this post since September 2005.

He is also the Co-Chair of the US-CARICOM Trade and Investment Council and is leading the negotiations with the United States Trade representative office for a new Trade and Investment Framework Agreement.

The Prime Minister added that a formal congratulatory letter will be sent on Monday to CARICOM with respect to the appointment.

Philipsburg:--- GEBE's transformer house maintenance program is currently underway. Scheduled outages can be expected as technicians work to upgrade GEBE's electricity distribution network. This preventative maintenance program is to ensure that key equipment, such as transformers, high and low tension switch gear are maintained in a timely manner. All maintenance will be announced in advance through public notices in the newspapers, radio, as well as on GEBE's website and Facebook page. Customers registered for eBilling will also be notified via email.
To minimize inconvenience, maintenance in residential areas is scheduled during the week from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, when most residents are at work. Commercial areas will be upgraded during the weekend, ideally when most businesses in the area are closed. Maintenance starts at the scheduled time to minimize downtime for our clients. Changes in schedules are sometimes necessary due to bad weather; updates will also be posted on our website, Facebook page and via email.
"We want the public to understand that these outages are not due to equipment malfunctioning or failure, but is scheduled maintenance necessary to maximize reliability, efficiency, availability and durability of the GEBE electrical distribution network", said Cherryl Lambooy, GEBE's Corporate Communication Officer. Transformer houses are an important part of the electrical distribution network. Switches and other technical gear can be affected by moisture, corrosion and wear and tear. Cosmetic maintenance to the transformer house itself, such as painting and small repairs, will also be carried out.
Residents and businesses can prepare by ensuring they have enough fuel for their back-up generators. Other tips to prepare for an outage are:

• Unplug any sensitive electronics.
• Turn off all lights and electrical equipment. Leave on only one light or radio to alert you when the power has been restored
• Try to minimize the time your fridge and freezer are open to keep the cool air in.
• Gather any flashlights and check spare batteries.
• Visit www.nevgebe.com or www.facebook.com/nvgebe for the latest updates.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- The Department of Disaster Management has released the listing of Hurricane Shelters for the 2011 Hurricane Season.

The following list has been compiled of buildings that will serve as a temporary shelter in the event of a hurricane strike. Shelters will also be manned by law enforcement/military officials in order to guarantee order within the shelter.

Shelters will be opened hours before a hurricane strike. This notification will be issued via the radio, online internet websites and the print-media. Persons who feel that they won't be safe in their homes should prepare to go by friend, another secure location or to a shelter. Prior to leaving your home, make sure everything is secure and you've packed all the essentials that you will need.

Persons utilizing a shelter are not allowed to carry certain items with them, only the essentials. Pack enough water and food for up to three days. It is also advisable to take a first aid kit to the shelter with you along with prescription medications.

If you have a baby, remember to pack enough diapers, formula and bottles to last at least three days. Take playing cards, games and toys to keep children, and yourself, occupied. Take a set of clean clothes and bedding (pillow, sheets).

Carry a can opener; a few cans of non-perishable food; special items for elderly or disabled family members; battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries; cash/credit cards; passport and other important papers (insurance papers).

Alcoholic beverages and weapons are not allowed in shelters. Smoking is also not allowed. There is no need to bring cooking equipment or furniture to a shelter as there is no room.

Shelters do not accept pets, so you should make arrangements beforehand to have your untied pets secured in a room at your home, with sufficient water, and food for at least three days. Do not leave dogs and cats in the same room.

1. Leonard Conner School – Venus Drive – Cay Bay (for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
2. Christian Fellowship Church – Welfare Road – Cole Bay (for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
3. Salvation Army Building – Union Road – Cole Bay (for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
4. Milton Peters College – L.B. Scot Road – South Reward (for the St. Peters, Ebenezer & South Reward districts)
5. Rupert Maynard Youth Center – St. Peters Road – St. Peters (for the St. Peters, Ebenezer & South Reward districts)
6. Sr. Marie Laurence School – Ellis Drive – Middle Region (for the Middle Region & Defiance districts)
7. New Testament Baptist Church – Cannegieter Street – Philipsburg (for the Philipsburg & Pointe Blanche districts)
8. Allan C. Halley Community Center – Simpson Bay Road – Simpson Bay (for the Simpson Bay & Beacon Hill districts)
9. Marie Genevieve de Weever School – Guana Bay Road – Hope Estate (for the Hope Estate & Sucker Garden districts)
10. Epheses SDA Church – Belvedere Estate Road – Belvedere (for the Belvedere & Dutch Quarter districts)
11. St. Maarten Academy – Cupper Drive – Cul-de-Sac (for the St. Peters, St. Johns & Cul-de-Sac districts)

Great Bay:--- The back-to-back Education and Sports conferences that were originally scheduled to be held on August 12 and 13 respectively, will now be held on September 2 and 3, according a press release issued by the Cabinet of the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs.
"The official visit of the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs, Dr. Rhoda Arrindell to Holland, where she will be accompanying St. Martin's study financing students, and other logistic issues have made it necessary to find new dates for the two conferences," the release stated.
"The two conferences are being convened to discuss with stakeholders, issues relating to education and sports development on the island and to establish clear directions and policy initiatives that would impact on the two important sectors," Dr. Arrindell explained.
"The idea was to hold the conferences just before the start of the school year, however, the new dates seem to be the most convenient when everything else is taken into account," the Minister added.
"I am really looking forward to these conferences which will set the tone for the new school year and put us on the path of a common and shared goal to achieve the very best we can for our children," Dr. Arrindell said.
The Minister leaves this Sunday with a batch of some 66 study financing students in what has become a traditional trip to ensure that the students settle in properly. She will take advantage of this her first official visit to the Netherlands to meet with education authorities there to discuss matters of mutual interest.
"The Minister has a packed agenda that includes important talks with the Dutch Director General of Higher Education, Mr. Renk Roborgh, the mayor of Groningen, and Tanja Jadnanansing, member of the PvdA in the Dutch Second Chamber. She will, of course, also hold discussions with S4 and pay a courtesy call on the Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Martin in The Netherlands, Mr. Mathias Voges."

Philipsburg:--- The detective department (Armed Robbery Team) is busy investigating an armed robbery that took place in the parking lot behind Klass Electronics on Front Street. According to reports reaching SMN News, two armed gunmen held up an employee of Klass Electronics who was on his way to the bank to make a large deposit for the company. Sources say the employee had close to $20,000.00 in his possession at the time of the robbery and the gunmen escaped with all of the money.
The reports states that it appears as though the gunmen were in the parking lot waiting for the employee when he was held up. The two gunmen then ran over to Cannegieter Street where they were picked up in a small grey car in which they escaped. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed that the detectives are busy investigating the early morning robbery. Henson said police tried to catch up with the getaway car but they failed. The police spokesman further explained that police has an idea where to look for the culprits.

The St. Maarten Zoo is thrilled to report that they have found the Common Marmoset monkey that was stolen from the Zoo last week.
The Zoo received an anonymous call from someone who saw the money in a tree across the street from AKI on the Illidge Road, just minutes away from the Zoo.
The person calling said her daughter recognized the monkey from the picture in the newspapers.
Apparently, the thieves abandoned a motorcycle right there also.

Zoo staff investigated, saw the monkey in the tree, and set up a couple boxes with food. After checking every hour from Friday afternoon until Saturday ,we finally saw him come down from the tree and get in the box to eat and we were able to capture him.

Some local children were on the scene helping in the rescue and we appreciate their help. In fact, we actually captured the monkey in one of the boxes set up by the school children.

Thanks to all the people who called the Zoo with information, and thanks also to the media for their coverage.
We appreciate very much all the help and support from the community .

Thanks to everyone, our monkey is back home safe and sound.

St. Johns, Antigua:--- The deadline for the receipt of entries in this year's inaugural Caribbean Business Awards is fast approaching. With the winners of these Awards due to be announced in September. Entries close July 31st.
The Caribbean Business Awards recognize excellence in Caribbean business.

Derrick & Janice Sutherland, founders of the CBA's, explained: "The primary objective of The Caribbean Business Awards is to recognise real excellence in the Caribbean business world whilst also sharing business best parctice. Receiving an award supported by the Caribbean Association of Industry & Commerce (CAIC) the only accredited private sector umbrella association operating at a regional level, means that the recipient has made more than a positive contribution to the Caribbean business world.

"More importantly those who receive the awards will have excelled - and will have been recognised in doing so by respected industry professionals."

There will be ten awards, for the:

• Business of the Year – Small to Medium
• Business of the Year – Large
• Contact Centre of the Year
• Customer Excellence Award – Small to Medium
• Customer Excellence Award – Large
• Excellence in Tourism
• Excellence in Hospitality
• Excellence in Sports
• Excellence in Music

The judging of the Caribbean Business Awards will be conducted by independent senior executives representing all walks of industries within the Caribbean business world.

More information about the program and how to participate can be found at www.caribbeanbusinessawards.com.

Contact Information:
Caribbean Business Awards
PO Box W28
Woods Centre
St Johns
Antigua
Phone +1 (268) 779 0990
+1 (268) 776 2286
Fax: +1 (268) 561 5708
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.caribbeanbusinessawards.com

Philipsburg:--- The Council of Ministers has given GEBE until August 1 2011 to remove its fuel clause from the bills of consumers said Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams on Wednesday when asked what are government's plans to tackle the high cost of electricity on St. Maarten. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said the Minister of Economic Affairs Franklin Meyers sent an instruction to GEBE four weeks ago instructing them to cut out the fuel clause from its consumers bills. She said unless GEBE comes up with a feasible proposal to eliminate or decrease the fuel clause the instruction stands. Wescot Williams said that those are the discussions taking place with government and GEBE but so far she has not seen a feasible proposal from GEBE addressing the fuel charge which according to her is unacceptable as is. She said if GEBE does not provide government with a feasible proposal then the government owned company would have to carry out the instruction given to them.
Over the past five years, GEBE did not provide government with its financial statements. Wescot Williams said based on the structure of the company it has made it difficult for them as a shareholder representative to obtain these statements. The Prime Minister said government requested the finances of GEBE when they saw what was reported in the media about the company's profit last year. Government she said wants to know what is GEBE's purpose of such a high fuel charge and building up its reserves.
The Prime Minister said it is unacceptable to government the way GEBE is applying the formula to calculate its fuel clause which is passed on to the people. She said the people's salaries and wages do not change in such a way to accommodate GEBE's high cost. She said even though people are trying to decrease their consumption their bills are just skyrocketing, thus government has been quite firm regarding the fuel clause.

Philipsburg:--- GEBE is currently launching its leak detection project, which will run for seven weeks. GEBE is working with technology partner Matchpoint Inc., whose project manager Simon Wick has over 20 years of leak detection experience, to perform an initial survey of the Cole Bay and Philipsburg area up to Point Blanche. This project is part of a larger leak detection program aimed at upgrading the GEBE water distribution network and reducing water losses, which also included refurbishing water tanks in 2010 and 2011. Sporadic, localized outages can be expected as GEBE works to repair the leaks found.
The leak detection program uses some of the latest technology available to find hidden leaks in the water distribution system, and allows GEBE to take a more structural approach to maintaining its water distribution network. "This is an important project in helping us to not only find isolated leaks, but to also structurally review our network by highlighting areas of focus" said Tony Brooks, GEBE Distribution Manager.
This project, led by Mr. Hubert Redhead, will also include a training period where Match Point technicians will train GEBE operators in how to use this specialized equipment and interpret the data. "GEBE and Matchpoint teams will work closely together to ensure the transfer of knowledge", said Mr. Redhead. GEBE will then continue to survey and repair leaks in other areas of the island.
The specialized leak detection equipment, supplied by Fluid Conservation System, allows GEBE technicians to survey the distribution network and pinpoint exactly where leaks are located. It also facilitates finding leaks below roads or in areas that are difficult to access, as well as find hidden leaks that would have otherwise been missed. Acoustic sound loggers are used to locate areas of the network that can have leaks. Noise correlators and ground microphone systems will then be used to pinpoint and confirm where leaks are located. GEBE water repair teams will be on-hand to fix these leaks.

Philipsburg:--- The vice chair of the Advisory Council of Sint Maarten, Mrs. Mavis Brooks – Salmon was presented a copy of the Annual Report of the General Audit Chamber on July 5th 2011.
The Chairman of the Audit Chamber, Mr. Roland Tuitt, presented this first annual report of the General Audit Chamber to Mrs. Brooks-Salmon and provided a short explanation of the contents of the Annual Report that was presented on June 28 and June 29 to the Parliament as well as the Governor, respectively. The Annual Report of the General Audit Chamber is required by law to be presented to the Governor and Parliament prior to July 1st of each year.
The General Audit Chamber is a High Council of State that was formally established on October 10th 2010. Since its inception the Audit Chamber has been finalizing various projects related to the fitting out of the institution as well as preparing activities related to the core tasks of the institution.
The primary task of the General Audit Chamber is to audit government by examining whether public expenditures occurred within legal parameters, but also to determine whether expenditures and policy are effective and efficient. The General Audit Chamber is comprised of a three person board, including a full time chairman, Mr. R. Tuitt. The other members are Mr. Ronald Halman and Mr. Alphons Gumbs. In addition, there are two replacement members, Mr. Mark Kortenoever and Mr. Daniel Hassell.

Marigot:--- One of two suspects who were arrested last week for the shooting of Pascal Morelle in the vicinity of Le Shore restaurant was transferred to Basse Terre as he awaits his trial of attempted murder.
Morelle was shot some weeks ago in Grand Case shortly after the tried to disperse a group of youths that was causing trouble in the area around 03:00 am. The gendarmes said evidence is mounting against the suspect that was transferred to Guadeloupe.
Pascal Morelle is nursing severe gunshot wounds to his stomach in a hospital in Martinique. His condition is said to be serious as he has to undergo several surgeries to repair the damages he sustained from the gunshot wounds.

Philipsburg:--- The Prosecutor's office on St. Maarten was busy on Tuesday morning conducting raids at at least three business locations as well as at the homes of the businessmen. Detectives from the RST searched the main office of Robbie's Lottery as well as the home of the businessman. Searches were also conducted at the accountancy firm for Robbie's which is SINTACC and at Pan American Services. St. Maarten's Prosecutor Barth den Hartigh said Pan American is not a suspect in the ongoing investigations but since they are the ones that are transporting monies for Robbie's the investigators thought it prudent to conduct searches there too.
SMN News learnt that an old firearm was found during the search at Robbie's Lottery and the manager of the company might be taken into custody if the owner of the firearm does not have a license to carry a firearm. Sources say that Robbie's Lottery on St. Maarten was not very co-operative as they did not want to open the vault that was holding the monies for the company and the investigators were forced to break open the vault. Prosecutor Den Hartigh confirmed that the manager for Robbie's St. Maarten claimed they did not have a key to open the vault and the police had to break it open.
The searches on St. Maarten are part of a joint investigation between Curacao and St. Maarten said Press Prosecutor Gillano Scoop of Curacao. Gillano Schoop confirmed that the main offices of Robbie's Lottery both on St. Maarten and Curacao were searched as investigators are busy investigating a suspect identified as R.A.D.S (Robert De Santos) of tax fraud and money laundering. Schoop said the investigators searched two homes and two businesses on Curacao while they intend to search three businesses and three homes on St. Maarten. Prosecutor Schoop said no arrests have been made on either country.
St. Maarten's Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh confirmed on Tuesday evening that the investigators seized monies and administrative paper work during the raids. Den Hartigh said he could not disclose exactly how much money was seized as the investigators were still busy working on the case late Tuesday afternoon.
Robert De Santos is the brother of Curacao's Finance Minister Jorge Jamaloodin. Sources say the veteran businessman was the main financial contributor to the political party "Movementu Kòrsou Futuro."

Already indications from several persons in the community here and on Curacao say the ongoing investigations may be political.

Philipsburg:--- Management of the United Telecommunications Services on St. Maarten and Curacao are busy working on a five year plan which would enhance their services announced CEO Glen Carty and Interim Chief Operating Officer Roy Richardson.
St. Maarten they said has 17 cell sites and already the company has received approval for another 12 sites that have to be installed. So far, UTS can boast of its island wide coverage and they do not have to partner with any of the French networks Carty said. UTS has island wide coverage on Curacao, Saba, St. Maarten and Statia while they are busy working on setting up more cell sites on St. Barths where they would place their focus on dealing with authorized dealers. UTS sold its Chippie Land on St. Kitts but they managed to secure the new owners as a partner. That owner, Carty said has a Telecommunications Network in Anguilla thus giving UTS an advantage on that island.
At a press conference at the UTS office on Tuesday, Carty said the company made 15.1 million guilders in profit in 2010. However, the government owned company was also involved in several community related projects as well as giving back to the community through promotions.
While UTS is busy working on maintaining a high level of service, they are competing with the international market. The CEO and COO said the company has to invest millions of guilders in infrastructure so they can compete adequately. Carty gave an example of how many carriers can be picked up at the Princess Juliana International Airport while there are only two authorized companies that can do business locally. He said because of that, the local companies are losing millions of guilders per year while they are called to invest millions in infrastructure. They describe their challenges as humongous with unfair competitions.
However, Carty said the prognosis thus far is positive even though challenging since they are forced to compete against big international companies who have secured their licenses to do business in the Caribbean. Carty also confirmed that UTS is doing business with LIME as their roaming partners. He said it would be advisable for customers traveling overseas to turn off their "Data Receiving" option when traveling since roaming charges are normally very high. UTS is also working on sealing a deal with another network in Guadeloupe which would enable UTS customers to use their services while in Guadeloupe and Martinique.

Philipsburg:--- The young man that police shot in Dutch Quarter on Friday morning as they tried to arrest escape prisoner Chucky Nelson is trying to find out how the Police Department intends to compensate him for the injuries he sustained.
The young man was seen on Tuesday morning at the Philipsburg Police Station on two crutches while his right leg was in a cast looking for his Blackberry phone that was confiscated by police when the incident occurred.
The victim who identified himself as "Ricardo" was conversing with some officers who apparently shot in him in mistaken identity on Friday and he claims the officers told him that whenever they see the escape prisoner Chucky Nelson they will shoot him to death. Ricardo said he was on a motorcycle entering Dutch Quarter with another person whom he said jumped off of the scooter and escaped. The police, he said fired two shots at him, without firing any warning shots. "They shot me in the leg and one hit my tire". The young man said the article reported in one of the Daily Newspapers was false and that police tried to cover up what they did to him. The young man said the newspaper did not contact him to get their facts straight. "I was going by one of my friends to get a helmet with I noticed a set of police officers in the area, when they saw me they just began to shoot because they took me for Chucky."

Philipsburg:--- The hunt for escaped prisoner Omar Nelson better known as "Chucky" left four youths in serious condition on Tuesday. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said on Tuesday July 12th 2011, police received a phone call where they were informed that Chucky Nelson was seen driving a small black car in the Middle Region area. Henson said all the police patrols that were on the streets were dispatched to look for the vehicle which Chucky was supposedly driving.

A patrol while in the Sucker Garden area spotted a small black car with license plate P-5584 in which there was four occupants. Henson said police ordered the driver of the vehicle to stop so they could have established the identity of the four persons inside the vehicle at the time, but the driver he said did not heed the order of the police and thus began speeding. The driver increased his speed and was heading towards Upper Princess Quarter. The Central Dispatch was informed of the ongoing situation and backup by other patrols was requested in order to have this vehicle stopped.
During the chase, the patrol noticed that the driver was driving extremely recklessly causing oncoming traffic to pull to the right and off the road to avoid a collision. Seeing how dangerous the situation had gotten, the patrol decided to slow down and stop the chase to avoid innocent persons being injured. They informed the Central Dispatch of what was going on and informed the patrol in Dutch Quarter to intercept the suspected vehicle.
However, while driving downhill at very high speed at the intersection of Middle Region Road, Sucker Garden Road and Hulda B Richardson Road, the driver of the suspected vehicle lost control and collided head-on with oncoming traffic which was TAXI-83.
As a result of the tremendous impact, both vehicles were severely damaged and all four occupants of the suspected vehicle suffered severe injuries to their faces and limbs. The occupants of the taxi did not suffer any injuries. The Ambulance Department, Police Traffic Department, Forensic Department and Fire Department were sent to assist at the scene. The traffic was then diverted through Oyster Pond in order to get to Dutch Quarter and French Quarter area. The victims were all treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. During the investigation, it was established that the suspected vehicle had been stolen earlier that evening in the Philipsburg area. All four victims in this vehicle were between the ages of 16 and 19 years old and are from the Sucker Garden and The Keys area. There were also arrest warrants out for at least two of the victims involved in this accident.
The driver of the suspected vehicle will be flown abroad to be operated on in an attempt to save his left eye. The Traffic Department and Forensic Department are still carrying out their investigation.
It should be noted that Omar "Chucky" Nelson was not in the suspected vehicle and it turned out that the caller gave police wrong information when they stated that Chucky Nelson was seen inside the vehicle.

Middle Region:--- A mother of four has decided to go public after she receiving severe pressure from a particular social worker whom she said wants to remove her children from the "I Can Foundation."
Kay Lake said the social worker called her on several occasions screaming at her as she told her that she will remove her 15 year old son from I Can Foundation and place him at MPO. Besides that, the social worker whose name has been provided, wants to remove her 7-year old daughter and put her somewhere else. "Even though this social worker has been calling me and screaming as she is trying her best to intimidate me, she did not say with whom she will put my daughter." Lake said her 15 year old son has refused to be separated from his sister since the two of them were placed in the same home some four years ago.
This entire situation has caused my son to do very badly at his examinations. "My son is taking on the threat of his removal from I Can and he is totally stressed out. The social worker contacted him during examination time and told him she is separating them, but to date I was not asked to sign anything. The social worker called me on Thursday and she told me that she got a court decision to remove my children on Friday. "I want to know how any judge would grant this social worker a decision and the mother and father was not present. Besides that, the head of the Court of Guardianship and others never invited me to a meeting to tell me what they are doing. The only person I am hearing from is this social worker who would scream in my ears every time she calls me."
Lake said the social worker called her and told her that her son is a fool because he refused to go over to MPO. "My children are at I Can and they are happy there, I am living in Middle Region and my son and daughter knows that I am not far away. They also know that while they are not with me physically I am there spiritually for them." Lake said her trouble started last year when she went to court to obtain a passport for her son who is taking pilot lessons. "I met this social worker for the first time at the Court of Guardianship when I attended a meeting to go to court for my son's passport and ever since then I am being harassed by this social worker. She even went as far as telling me that she will take my children (Dutch Nationals) and send them to their father who is supposedly in Jamaica. Here you have someone telling a mother that she will send my children to a man who was convicted for peddling drugs. Now she decided that she doesn't need me and she will move my children when she pleases and put them where she wants to put them." Lake further explained that she was promised that her children would move back home with her this year. At no time did they tell me that they would put my children in different homes.
Some weeks ago, the MPO foundation that has about eight teenagers in house had their electricity and water disconnected because for some reason the home did not pay its utilities bill.
SMN News further learnt that the social worker moved a teenager last week from I Can and placed the child at MPO and that same weekend the teenager was caught in a bathroom making out with one of the teenage girls living at MPO. SMN News further learnt that the Court of Guardianship is busy investigating that case.

Marigot:--- Several dignitaries from the Dutch side of the island as well as from Anguilla joined their colleagues and working partners on the French side on Thursday to celebrate Bastille Day. Among the dignitaries from the Dutch side were Acting Governor Reynold Groeneveldt, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Minister of Economic Affairs Franklin Meyers, Minister of Education Rhoda Arrindell, Minister of Labour and Health Cornelius De Weever, and Members of Parliament: Ruth Douglas, Johan Janchi Leonard, Patrick Illidge and Jules James. While most of the elected officials from the Territorial Council were also present to celebrate the national holiday, St. Martin's Senator Louis Constant Fleming was nowhere around. SMN News learnt that the Senator celebrated Bastille Day in France.
The day's activities started off with a church service at the Marigot Catholic Church, after which they began the symbolic wreathing laying ceremony at the Garden of the Collectivity.
Several groups including the gendarmes, police territorial, firefighters and the scout then treated the dignitaries with the parade before the official speeches from the President and Prefet were given.
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Click here to view photos of the Bastille Day Celebrations.

Philipsburg:--- Acting police spokesman Geronimo Juliet has sent out yet another warning towards vehicle owners who are leaving their vehicles unlocked. The police spokesman said persons who leave their vehicles unlocked are inviting thieves to enter their vehicles. Recently, several persons reported to the police department that unknown persons would enter their vehicles and steal their belongings. The police spokesman said in many cases that were reported the owners of the vehicles left their vehicles unlocked thus inviting criminals to enter and steal their belongings.
Juliet said unknown persons went into a car on Tuesday and stole all documents related to the vehicle. Items stolen were the driver, driver's license, insurance documents and registration documents. The police spokesman said the vehicle was parked on Front Street unlocked.
In an unrelated incident, unknown persons stole a black Kia Rio with license plate P-5714 on Tuesday. The vehicle was parked on Castries Drive when it was stolen. While unknown persons also stole parts off a rental vehicle that was parked on Tropical Road. Juliet said parts were stolen off a Toyota Yaris bearing number plate R-695. The bandits also stole the back and front lights of the said vehicle.
The Police traffic department has sent out a strong warning to drivers who are in the habit of driving with loud music. Acting Police Spokesman Geronimo Juliet said drivers should be more considerate when playing their music. He said drivers who lower their music will be the ones winning since they will be protecting their hearing while making the community happy. Juliet said that there are drivers who are breaking the Geneva Treaty when they use colored lights in the back and front of their vehicles. According to the Geneva Treaty, all vehicles must have white lights in the front and red in the back. Persons who use other color lights are distracting the traffic and consequently putting other people's life in danger. The police spokesman has called on drivers to desist from using the "funny" lights in the front and back of their vehicles which he said is not in accordance with the Geneva Treaty.

Philipsburg: --- The Government of St. Maarten should take some sort of decision regarding the joint Central Bank for Curacao and St. Maarten says Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams at Wednesday's Council of Ministers press briefing. The Prime Minister said that St. Maarten cannot act as though everything is normal and not be reminded about the decision the Curacao Parliament took regarding a joint central bank. Wescot Williams said the government of Curacao has made their position clear as to how they intend to move forward. She said the two countries can come together and agree to disagree with regards to the joint central bank. Wescot Williams said that if such a decision is taken definitely St. Maarten will be affected but a decision she said must be taken since the subject is too important to have it lingering or festering without a precise decision.
"We have to also recognize that the agreement of 2006 is not the same regarding a joint central bank for the two countries," the Prime Minister said that both countries should take a decision as soon as possible as she does not think the two countries can continue to have this matter hanging over their heads much longer. Wescot Williams said that she also believes that dollarization still remains and option for St. Maarten until clear explanations are given on which currency would better serve St. Maarten.
When asked what or how her government is approaching the issue at hand, the Prime Minister said that while St. Maarten can jump as high as it wants there is not much government can do since St. Maarten does not have their own infrastructure in place to start off on their own monetary system (central bank). She said that was the reason why the government of St. Maarten insisted that the local branch of the Central Bank on St. Maarten be upgraded based on the agreements that were made in the past. Prime Minister Wescot Williams said the Central Bank of Curacao was supposed to upgrade the Central Bank on St. Maarten so that it could operate independently but that she said is still not the case. She further explained that should Curacao decide to split immediately then St. Maarten has nothing in place which would allow it to operate. "Our first request with the Central Bank was to comply with that part of the agreement with the upgrading of St. Maarten's branch."
The Prime Minister said while St. Maarten has estimated it shares so far the Council of Ministers did not get any official information on the foreign exchange levy and other shares from the Central Bank. She said right now the communication between the Central Bank and St. Maarten is difficult and as such they are considering other means to deal with the issue. The Prime Minister said the Central Bank issue is also affecting the completion of the new government building on Pond Island which has to be completed and the St. Maarten needs finances to move forward. Besides that she said unless St. Maarten get more information on its shares in the Central Bank and other government owned companies the budget of 2012 will be grossly affected. The Prime Minister said that the if the situation is not resolved soon St. Maarten would end up having the same problems they encountered this year to balance its budget. "Not being able to incorporate our shares will lead us to trying to get blood out of stone with the 2012 budget." She said the economic environment does not allow St. Maarten to increase taxes to bring more money in government coffers.

Pond Island:--- Members of the business community and unions that attended the one day summit organized by the Chamber of Commerce at the University of Saint Martin made several suggestions to the board and management of USM during the one day summit announced the President of the University of Saint Martin Annanlies Van Assen. Van Assen said they concluded that both the business community and USM are on the same track in nurturing the future employees of St. Maarten.
Van Assen said the aim of the summit was to make sure USM and the business community is on the same page. She said their aim was to find out what types of human resources are really needed on St. Maarten. She said while the institution has been offering educational programs it appears as though they were not catering to the needs of the business community. Some of the suggestions include a paralegal programs as well as salesman and nursing programs.
The President of USM said the institution is busy working on their strategic business plan so that they can shape the institution to reach the islands' needs. USM is also looking into ways they can offer programs that would allow the institution to make more monies so that they can survive the current financial crisis.
Van Assen said they are also trying to mold a stronger relationship with the primary and secondary schools as they work towards meeting the needs of their students and the community.
Clareth Conner of the Chamber of Commerce said USM has been developing and positioning itself to meet the needs of the business community. He said while the institution made strides with infrastructures, the institution now has to focus on providing the needs of the business community. Conner said it is clear that USM can help in meeting the needs of the community so they can enhance the services that are provided locally as a destination in the tourism industry. He said the assessment needs summit will assist USM in building their business plan. Glen Yeung Acting Dean of the institution said the idea is to position USM with the constant changes taking place within the business community. Yeung said they determined that USM has a great future and for students as well as for St. Maarten.

Accreditation for USM.

When asked how diligently USM is working towards accreditation, Van Assen said the topic was discussed during the needs assessment. However, the institution already identified that accreditation of USM and its programs will be costly. She said right now they are having discussions with universities abroad that are accredited who could probably monitor the programs that are offered at USM. Van Assen said they are also contemplating on whether they should seek to have the programs they offer accredited rather than the institution, both of which she said is very costly. Van Assen said it is impossible for USM to get all its programs accredited simply because the process is expensive. It is her opinion, USM does not need to do this by itself especially since the process is expensive and there are changes along the way. Van Assen said they are reconnecting with the University of the Virgin Islands, Monroe College and Holland to make sure that all the programs are monitored. USM chose to have their programs monitored because it is the easiest way out while students can complete their BA on St. Maarten, Van Assen said. This would also enable the students to transfer their credits to other universities if they chose to complete their studies overseas. Van Assen said they do not want to limit their students since they also have to think about their student's dreams and aspirations.
Yeung said there are pros and cons if they accredit the institution according him that would limit the institution, a risk they are not willing to take since there are other needs on St. Maarten. He gave example of the AUC that has accredited its medical program but is not able to offer other programs unless they seek accreditation for it.
Van Assen also confirmed that USM is still busy with the independent assessment (desk research) as requested by the Ministry of Education for the Teachers Education Program TEP. She also confirmed that to accredit the TEP program it will cost USM some Euros 10,000.00 while there are preparation cost for the accreditation. Van Assen said they are still working on the TEP program to ensure that students who complete the program would be able to obtain their degree. The Ministry she said wants USM to prove that the program is up to the right level.
The Ministry she said would also have to let USM know whether or not they want to remain under the FBE program so that they could proceed. USM she said is currently financed by subsidy, tuition and private investment.

Great Bay (DCOMM):--- Youth Health Care (YHC), a section that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, has a large number of uncollected vaccination cards on file, and the section is appealing for individuals to visit the office to pick them up.

The names of persons are listed in the reception area at the Ministry of Public Health at the Vineyard Office Park in Philipsburg.

Names of individuals are also listed on the Government Website www.sintmaartengov.org under the aforementioned link "What's New."

Persons who have internet access can check out the over 700 names on the site to see if they are one of them whose card was never picked up and remains at YHC.

Parents or guardians requesting additional information can call the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, Section Youth Health Care at 542-3003, 542-2078, or 542-3553.

Great Bay:--- The Peridot Foundation received an "appreciation gift" of the popular Yvette's cookbook here last Thursday from the St. Martin Book Fair Committee (BFC), said Shujah Reiph, book fair coordinator.
Peridot founder the Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell, said that while Peridot is a foundation that relies on contributions, it was happy to come to the aid of the book fair in early June with a small financial contribution.
Drs. Arrindell recalled her early love for reading and taking the neighborhood children to the library when she was between six and eight years of age. Arrindell said that one of the reasons why she is supportive of the book fair is because, "I know what reading did for me. Reading is also responsible for where I am today."
Drs. Arrindell, who is also President of the Territory's Parliament, further thanked the book fair organizers for encouraging reading, writing, and critical thinking among the young and all other age groups with the annual event.
Each year, the St. Martin Book Fair gathers writers and experts from the island and around the world for school visits, public literary readings, launches of new books, and free workshops on a range of topics.
Peridot coordinator Amalia Elstak, who is a St. Martin veteran teacher, said, "reading motivates the youth to do positive things in life." BFC member Conneir Thelwell thanked Peridot for being a partner of the 9th annual St. Martin Book Fair.
Yvette's cookbook, From Yvette's Kitchen To Your Table – A Treasury of St. Martin's Traditional & Contemporary Cuisine by Yvette Hyman, was the main title launched at the book fair on June 4.
Peridot is an NGO that works for the empowerment of women in particular and the family in general.

The annual West Indies Umpires Association Convention will take place in St. Lucia from the 17 to the 24th of July. The purpose of the convention is three fold. First to update the membership on new developments in the sports of cricket and umpires as a whole, second to hold elections for the board of directors of the association and third to get acquainted with members from across the various territories including Jamaica, Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad, Leeward Islands, United States, the Bahamas and the British and US Virgin Islands. 

Mr. Emanuel "Spoony" Stapleton, President of the St. Maarten Umpires Association stated: "Knowing NAGICO's commitment to the development of cricket throughout the Caribbean, we approached the company to assist with the provision of uniforms. Thanks to their positive response, the Leeward Islands will be going to the convention dressed in a uniformed manner for the first time in its 25 year history. We will be sporting a NAGICO Insurances polo shirt. On behalf of the Leeward Islands Association President Mr. Austin Christopher, I extend a special thank you to NAGICO Insurances as we look forward to a continued positive relationship towards the development of cricket."

Marketing Officer, Jimmy Challenger accepted the official polo shirt on behalf of NAGICO Insurances: "Without the umpires the games cannot go on. When NAGICO embraces sports in the communities which it serves, we support every aspect of it. We are pleased to assist the umpires and wish them a productive convention later this month."

Philipsburg:--- A Guyanese national identified as Carsdale Aaron (55) who was working as a mechanic for St. Maarten Concrete on Arch Road is now a patient at the St. Maarten Medical Center where he is nursing burn wounds on 80% of his body. The victim in an exclusive interview with SMN News said on June 15th 2011 he went to work but his boss at St. Maarten Concrete, Nelson Stanford informed him that they were not going to work on that day because of heavy rain fall. Aaron said he return to his home and sometime around 11am that same day, he received a call from the welder that operates and manages a welding shop at the St. Maarten Concrete requesting that he return to work since they were busy repairing and cleaning a gasoline tank for BBW. Aaron said when he reached the location his boss advised him to accompany him to his house but the welder insisted that they needed to clean and weld the gasoline tank. He said he went inside the tank to clean it and while inside of the tank the welder whose name has been given an Rommel Bess or "Fineman" began welding the tank on the outside causing it to explode while Aaron was still inside the tank. Aaron was transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center where he is currently being treated for the second degree burns but no one he said is taking responsibility for the accident. He said since he has been hospitalized he has not received his salary. Besides that Aaron said the St. Maarten Medical Center is not a burn institute and while the doctors and nurses are doing their very best to treat him, someone he said has to take on the responsibility to have him taken to a burn institute outside of St. Maarten. Aaron said while at the St. Maarten Medical Center a police officer (detective) visited him and told him that the case belongs to the Safety Inspectors and not the police. He said the team from VROM also visited him once and they never returned.
One of Aaron's brothers who resides in the United States contacted SMN News on Wednesday asking for his brother's predicament to be investigated. In a letter to SMN News, Collin Aaron said he was contacted on June 16th and  informed of the incident. Collin Aaron said since the incident took place, his brother was left unattended since he has no immediate relatives on the island to take care of his affairs. Carsdale Aaron however, said his colleagues would visit him but the general manager of St. Maarten Concrete Franklyn David only visited him once and he has never returned. David he said has so far refused to take responsibility claiming that the welding shop does not belong to him or either St. Maarten Concrete. Collin Aaron said his brother only received half his salary for the month of May while he is yet to receive his June salary.
When SMN News visited the site on Wednesday, we were told that the welding shop that is located close to the fence inside the yard of St. Maarten Concrete belongs to another Guyanese national who has since abandoned the shop. Nelson Stanford said the welding shop is not part of St. Maarten Concrete, he however, admitted that the welder known as Fineman did odd jobs for St. Maarten Concrete and other companies in the area. The gasoline tank that Aaron and Fineman was working on that day Stanford said belonged to BBW and they believe that BBW should be the one to should shoulder the responsibility of the accident. When asked if St. Maarten Concrete rented the spot to the welder or if there is any written agreement with the welder and St. Maarten Concrete to show that the welding shop does not belong to St. Maarten Concrete and that could not be provided by St. Maarten Concrete. Stanford said the welder has since moved his equipments to Cupecoy and the police and inspectors from VROM were trying to locate the man. He said three persons from VROM visited them and are said to be making up a report on the incident. Stanford said on the day in question he told Aaron on three occasions to get out of the tank since he did not have the necessary equipments to clean a gasoline tank. He said Aaron took his own risk when he decided to work with the welder that day because he did not work for St. Maarten Concrete due to heavy rain. Stanford further explained that Aaron did not even clock in his time card that morning.
However, VROM head of Inspections Henry Ellis said that he already closed off the investigations because they were informed two weeks after the incident occurred. Ellis said because of the lateness, he neither his staff were able to gather evidence which would show negligence. In the meantime, Public Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh said his office will be investigating the incident since the victim's brother also sent them a letter and pictures. The Public Prosecutor said his office still has to discuss with the police and a decision will be taken as to who would have to conduct such an investigation.

Philipsburg:--- Officers from the Zero Tolerance team arrested three persons in Dutch Quarter during a routine control reported Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson. The Police Spokesman said during the control conducted on Monday July 11th 2011, a vehicle with three occupants and with license plate 867 ZB 971 was stopped to be controlled. While controlling this vehicle the driver could not show a drivers license and a strong marijuana scent emanated from the car. All three suspects with the initials A.R., G.M and B.L. from the French side were detained. During a search of the vehicle a silver colored pistol and ten (10) 9mm caliber bullets were found along with a machete and a switch blade knife. All three suspects were arrested on the spot and weapons were confiscated for further investigation. The suspects were handed over to the Narcotics and Fire-arms Department.

Philipsburg:--- Police is yet to finish counting the monies they seized on Tuesday at Robbie's Lottery St. Maarten. Prosecutor Barth Den Hartigh said the RST officers assisted by the Intelligence and Investigations Team (TIO) of the Tax Accountants Bureau seized over one million dollars during the surprise raid that was conducted on Tuesday both on St. Maarten and Curacao. Den Hartigh said he does not know how much money was seized on Curacao but confirmed that a very large amount was seized on St. Maarten which he said surpassed a million dollars.
The Investigating officers are investigating the owner of Robbie's Lottery Robertico Dos Santos who is currently off island for tax evasion, money laundering and fraud. Sources close to Dos Santos said the businessman is currently in Miami and his wife who was at his Curacao residence flew out on Tuesday afternoon to meet her husband there. Curacao is reporting that Dos Santos left the island on Monday to go on vacation with his family.
It should be noted that Dos Santos is the half brother of Curacao's Finance Minister George Jamalodin who is also off island.
In the meantime, the manager of Robbie's Lottery St. Maarten remains in police custody as he was arrested on Tuesday for the illegal possession of a firearm. Den Hartigh said the suspect will be charged with the illegal possession of a firearm.

Philipsburg:--- The police department is busy investigating a father who used his fist to hit his young daughter in her face on Tuesday. Acting Police Spokesman Geronimo Juliet said the young lady who is now a mother filed an official complaint with the police against her father who used his fist and hit her in her face as well as using a belt to beat her while she was holding her five month old baby. Juliet said the father took off running when a neighbor went to rescue the young mother.
In an unrelated case, the police are also busy investigating a case of destruction. Juliet said a man identified as D.O. had an argument with another man identified as H.J about some money. On Tuesday D.O. saw H.J. next to the Lagonese Bar and he approached H.J's vehicle and begin destroying it. Police arrested D.O. as they continue to investigate.

St. Maarten's Special Olympians copped eleven medals including three gold, three silver and five bronze at the just-concluded Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens, Greece.

Several athletes also secured top ten spots in their respective categories. The proud athletes returned to St. Maarten on Tuesday.

The games ran from June 25 – July 4. Athletes were drawn from the Prins Willem Alexander School for Special Education (PWAS), Sr. Basilia Center and St. Maarten Vocational Training School. They participated in three of the 24 areas: track and field (racing, shot put and long jump), swimming and bocce.

Representing St. Maarten in track and field were Linda Richardson and Milinda Rogers from the Sr. Basilia Center; Katiana Pierre and Joseph Fidanque from Prins Willem Alexander School and Stefano Gordon and Jivana Claxton from the St. Maarten Vocational Training School. Willemijn Verloop and Roger Jeffers of the Sr. Basilia Center and Jivanta Claxton and Nathan Mollineau from the Prins Willem Alexander School (PWAS) competed in swimming while Albert Arrindell from the Sr. Basilia Center competed in bocce.

Athletes were accompanied by five coaches (Les Brown, , Antroy Cleghorn, Isha Marlin and Debby Rombley), Head of Delegation (HOD) Special Olympics Foundation St. Maarten(SOSM) Secretary Loyola Seymonson and one Assistant Head of Delegation (Asst. HOD) Greta Mathew.

An estimated 7,500 Special Olympics Athletes from 185 nations competed in 22 Olympic-type sports at the international event. The games are held every four years in a different nation.

ther members of the St. Maarten Special Olympics Board are: Lisandra Havertong (Treasurer and Vice President); Les Brown (Sports Director); Loyola Seymonson (Secretary); Joycelyn Patrick (Parent liaison); Willemijn Verloop (Athlete representative); Brigitte Halley (Prins Willem Alexander School Coordinator) and Greta Mathew (Sr. Basilia Center Coordinator.

Below is a listing of the medals won by the athletes:

Female athletes:

Katiana Pierre: Short put + Speed walk Gold

Linda Richardson: Long jump Bronze+ 100 meter 4th place

Milinda Rogers: Speed walk Silver

Jivana Claxton: Long jump Gold + 100 meter 6th place

Jivanta Claxton: Freestyle Bronze + Breaststroke 5th place

Willemijn Verloop: Breaststroke 5th place +7th place Freestyle

Male:

Roger Jeffers: Breaststroke Silver

Joseph Fidanque: 100meter 4th place +5th place 200 meter

Nathan Mollineau: Breaststroke Silver + freestyle Bronze

Stefano Gordon: Long jump 6th +4th 100 meter

Albert Arrindell: Bocce Bronze

Total:

3 Gold

3 Silver

5 Bronze

3 4th place

4 5th place

2 6th place

Simpson Bay:--- Friendly Island Properties Ltd. (FIP) achieved an important victory against the Tenant's Association of Pelican Resort Club (TAPRC) and the Special Foundation to Safeguard Interest of Pelican Resort Club (SBBPRC) in a verdict handed down by The Court of First Instance of Sint Maarten on July 6, 2011.

This verdict establishes and safeguards the democratic right of a certain majority (10% or more) of the members of TAPRC to call a special membership meeting in order to discuss matters that the member(s) deem important.

The judgment ruled that FIP legally called the Special General Meeting, set for July 8th, 2011, in accordance with the TAPRC Articles of Association, and granted the resort members the right to vote on their future.

This verdict puts an end to FIP's long battle to convince the present Board of TAPRC to simply respect FIP's right to request a special meeting of members to address some cardinal issues.

FIP's quest to have a special meeting called by the Board of TAPRC started in October 2010 and spans 9 months. FIP first requested that the TAPRC Board call a special meeting on October 6th, 2010. This request was turned down by the Board of TAPRC on November 2nd, 2010, without justification.

On March 18th, 2011, FIP called for yet another meeting, after it became obvious that the Board of TAPRC would not listen to reason and amend its previous unjustifiable refusal honor FIP's request.

In response to FIP's second demand, the TAPRC Board stated on March 25th, 2011that it would call the meeting to address all the agenda items presented by FIP. However, the TAPRC Board did not live up to its word, and subsequently decided, again without justification or substantiation, to refuse FIP's request. When FIP realized that the TAPRC Board was going to once again refuse to act in accordance with the TAPRC's own articles, FIP called its own special general meeting for July 8, 2011.

TAPRC proceeded by calling another meeting on June 4th, 2011 and misleading the members of TAPRC, by informing them repeatedly that this was the "One and Only Official Meeting,", thus discouraging the members from attending or otherwise participating in the July 8th, 2011 meeting called by FIP. The TAPRC Board then denied FIP entry to the very meeting that was supposedly the only "official meeting," despite the fact that even the TARPC Board had previously agreed, in writing, that FIP was a TAPRC member in good standing. The TARPC Board then attempted to block FIP's July 8, 2011 meeting by filing yet another injunction petition.

Despite the TAPRC Board's subsequent attempts to confuse the issue, the Court of First Instance on St. Maarten ruled today that FIP is a member who was entitled to legally schedule the meeting of July 8th, 2011. This means that the TAPRC Board illegally refused on two (2) occasions to adhere to the demand of FIP as a member of TAPRC to call a special meeting of members, to address several pressing issues.

The ruling of the Court of First Instance on St. Maarten is a victory for all members who seek to safeguard their democratic right to have the Board of TAPRC actually convene a Special General Meeting and address subjects that the members deem important, such as: the outrageous amount of legal claims and court cases, the skyrocketing legal fees, and the dubious and possibly fraudulent transfer of all assets of the Pelican Resort Club the Owner Company, the former proprietor of the resort, to the so-called special interest foundation SBBPRC, for NOTHING.

Once again, the present Board of TAPRC has been called to account by the Court of First Instance. Just last month, the Board of TAPRC was ordered to inform the members that it incorrectly informed them not to pay their possible balance under their timeshare purchase agreements to the New Owner Company, but instead to the new special foundation SBBPRC established and controlled solely by the present Board Members of TAPRC.

Members of TAPRC who have a timeshare right at the Simpson Bay Resort & Marina and The Villas at Simpson Bay are strongly encouraged to exercise their right to vote. Only together can we put an end to Countless Acts of the present TAPRC Board that violate the needs and welfare of the timeshare members, which could only be described as Madness.

Members who have not voted are encouraged to do so by downloading a Proxy from www.simpsonbayresort.com

and submitting it prior to the July 8, 2011 Special General Meeting. Members with any questions may also contact resort staff toll-free at 1-800-791-4416 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The meeting will be held this Friday, July 8, 2011 at the resort and with this current verdict members can now participate in the democratic decision making process. A second meeting has been tentatively scheduled for July 11, 2011 as a backup date if a quorum is not reached on July 8, 2011.

It is FIP's understanding that Special General Meeting will be broadcast live on the Internet. The future well-being of the the members, the employees, concessionaires and resort is at stake and all members are emphatically encouraged to participate in this important election.

MEMBERS ARE ADVISED THAT CHAIRMAN OF THE MEETING OF JULY 8TH AND 11TH 2011 MAY ACCEPT PROXIES UP TO THE STARTER OF THE MEETING AT 09:00 HOURS ON JULY 8TH, 2011 AND JULY 11TH, 2011.

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams refuted the allegations that her government is cutting back on old age pension and onderstand (social assistance) on Wednesday when asked for clarity on the issue during the Council of Ministers Press Briefing. Wescot Williams said government is not cutting back on any monies that are allocated to pensioners or social welfare recipients. However, she said that she is aware of several cases where people who are residing outside of St. Maarten are not getting their full pension dues even though they worked most of their years on the Dutch side of the island.
The Prime Minister said the regulations that govern the payment for pensioners are grossly affecting people living abroad. Persons residing over the border (French side) are considered to be living in a foreign country. "I am personally aware of some of cases where people are just receiving Naf. 50 + per month even though they worked most of their years on the Dutch side.'
However, Chief Operations Officer of SZV Reginald Willemsberg said nobody's pension was cut, he said the law of September 1960 is still applicable for persons who are residing on the Dutch side and was not registered from age 15. Willemsberg said there are persons who reside on the French side and has worked on the Dutch side and they are not registered at the census office and they also did not fill in their taxes on the Dutch side where they worked that are also affected.
Willemsberg said persons who cannot prove their residency through census office registration and tax returns run into problems with their pensions. The SZV Operations Officer said that there are persons who do not have insurance and have signed up for private insurance with SZV. Those persons would find that their pension is lower since 10.4% of their pension dues is deducted to cover the cost of the insurance. Willemsberg said that only persons who requested such insurance and has signed off on the deductions will encounter a reduction in their pension allowance.
As for social assistance recipients, those persons Wescot Williams said cannot receive more than the minimum wage. The Prime Minister said there is a structure in place to calculate social assistance and the applicant's income is one of the things that come into play when the file is dealt with. The Prime Minister said she believes that they have to revisit the law on social assistance for both the elderly and the unemployed. She said she even went as far as tabling a motion which would address the social assistance for the elderly who may have a savings account. The Prime Minister said elderly persons with savings account are not eligible for social assistance. She gave an example that shows that only when someone is a pauper they are able to obtain Naf. 300:- or so to survive.
In the meantime, SMN News has learnt that the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation has sent several letters to their tenants and the residents at the Red Cross informing them that Government did not pay their subsidies and as such their full rent will be deducted from their accounts which includes their pensions and social assistance.

Pointe Blanche:--- The Prison Inmates Association continues to sound the alarm about unfair treatment, deplorable conditions and a breach in the human rights laws at the house of detention. Members of the Prison Inmates Association told SMN News on Tuesday that several prisoners were given preferential treatment even though they have violated the rules and regulations of the prison. One such prisoner was former police commissioner and head of immigration Marcel Loor who they said was caught with a cellular phone. Spokesman for the Association Timothy Simmons said that when Loor was caught with the cellular phone he was allowed to pay a fine instead of being placed into solitary confinement. They said when other prisoners are caught with cellular phones they are not given the same opportunity, instead they are forced into solitary confinement and the information is placed in their files and it is used multiple times against them when it comes to early release on electronic surveillance.

The prison inmate association said they need clarification on how certain prisoners who violated the prison rules were allowed to go home while others are penalized for the same offenses committed inside the prison. Simmons said a prisoner from Saba whose name he gave as Heyliger was released even though he was caught with a cellular phone; they alleged that this particular prisoner has relatives and friends on review committee. SMN News learnt that the prison management gave a negative report on this prisoner's early release but it was not considered.
SMN News learnt that a convicted prisoner Charles Kemper who was sentenced to three years for armed robbery was released early to create space for the suspects that were held for human smuggling. The members of the inmates association said that one week after Kemper was released the prison contacted him and said they made a mistake by releasing him without the electronic surveillance.
Javed Richardson, secretary for the association said there are several repeat offenders who are supposed to sit out four fifth of their sentences that were allowed to go home after sitting out only two thirds of their sentences. Richardson said Ramon Cecila who is currently free was a repeat offender and he was convicted for armed robbery yet he was considered by the committee for early release. Another prisoner they named as getting preferential treatment was Glascow while Carl Nunes, a former cop was denied early release because he was caught with pornographic material and drugs while incarcerated.
Richardson said there are several prisoners who were scheduled to go home and on the day of their release they were informed that the committee decided that they have to sit out their full sentence. He said right now Audelio Houtman and Jason Margarita were given letters on the day they were scheduled to go home. "Doing this sends the prisoners crazy and they become frustrated." SMN News learnt that certain members of the management team of the prison have raised concerns on the procedures used to release prisoners and those that are used to keep certain prisoners behind bars. The source said the prison management does not know the procedures that are used by the committee and sometimes wonders why the report of the prison is not considered by the members of the committee.
Simmons said that locals whether French or Dutch are being discriminated against, he said foreign prisoners are allowed to sit out one third or two thirds of their sentences and are granted early release with the electronic surveillance but French nationals are not considered for early release. He said the management of the prison and the former Ministers of Justice never considered the treaty of Concordia when they were making the rules of the prison. Simmons said if a French national is sentenced to 10 years, that prisoner has to sit out his full ten years because the Dutch side authorities says they have no control on the open border.
He said just recently the main suspect that was held in pre-trial detention for the Bada Bing robbery was released. The suspect they identified as Kenny Douglas was released without a summons and he has since left the island to his native country Dominica. They asked how the prosecutor or Minister of Justice would get this person back to St. Maarten to prosecute him for his crimes. The main suspect they said was released while two other persons remain locked up.
Questions are also being raised on how Kunal Manek was released on April 18th when he was supposed to go on electronic surveillance on May 2 2011. Manek they said was sentenced in October 2004 to 10 years for attempted manslaughter and armed robbery. The prisoner who is now free on electronic surveillance was a repeat offender and he spent four fifth of his sentence incarcerated. He is still to receive the money he worked for while in prison Richardson said.

The members of the inmates association said that certain parts of the prison including the chapel are in deplorable conditions and this they said is unhygienic. The hygiene department they said visited the facility and are busy making a report on its condition. It should be noted that the Pointe Blanche house of detention is over 20 years old and it was never renovated.
Ishmael Arrindell, president of the inmates association said there are three inmates at the Pointe Blanche Prison that are currently insane. These prisoners they said went crazy while incarcerated and they are not given adequate treatment. The three inmates they identified as been mentally ill are Maurice Carty, Troy Combs, and Vivian Erskin. Management of the Pointe Blanche House of Detention confirmed that they have three insane prisoners that are being visited by the Mental Health Foundation. Sources say the Prison management has raised concerns about having insane prisoners locked up at the institution but the harsh reality for them is that the island does not have a mental facility.
According article 82 of the Human Rights Charter it states:- "Insane and Mentally Abnormal Prisoners" (1) Persons who are found to be insane shall not be detained in prisons and arrangements shall be made to remove them to mental institutions as soon as possible.(2) Prisoners who suffer from other mental diseases or abnormalities shall be observed and treated in a specialized institution under medical arrangement. (3) During their stay in a prison, such prisoners shall be placed under supervision of a medical officer."

It is clear that management of the Pointe Blanche House of Detention has violated the Universal Human Rights Declaration on equal treatment. The Prison Inmates Association filed a complaint with the National Ombudsman in The Hague which was handed over to St. Maarten's Ombudsman Nilda Arduin Lynch. Last week, Arduin Lynch told reporters that she will be investigating the allegations of the Prison Inmates Association.
The Members of the Prison Inmates Association said that while the Ombudsman and several media personalities has met with them to hear their plight the Members of Parliament did not keep a scheduled appointment they had for last Monday. They said the Members of Parliament met with the Minister of Justice and they never met with them or even took a tour of the facility.

Philipsburg:--- Several teachers teaching at the St. Maarten Academy (Academic and FAVE sections) have informed the board of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) that they have not received their 5.3% Cost of Living Adjustment in their vacation allowance for the month of June 2011 and the balance of the 3.3% on their June 2011 salary retroactive to January 2011.
President of the WITU Claire Elshot said they received several calls from the teachers and the union tried to obtain clarity on the matter from the school board. However, Alsain Van Dijke Bell is off island while the other member of the board Mrs. Lourdes Brooks-Lake asked the union to put their concerns in writing so that the matter can be researched. WITU President Claire Elshot said the board of the union regrets that this is happening while the payments were made a month ahead of the signed MOU with the unions. Elshot said the Prime Minister had communicated the change to all school boards, teachers and civil servants. The reason given for the early payment was to avoid the re-calculation of the vacation allowance and the retroactive payment.
The WITU President said thus far all teachers working for government schools have received their monies correctly because the Union did not receive further complaints.
Elshot said she hopes that the matter pertaining to the payment can be resolved quickly because the motives for the non-payment are not clear to the union. The WITU president said that there are concerns regarding the legality and functioning of the St. Maarten Academy School Board that has only two members.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of The Government of St. Maarten is hereby informing the general public that:
The intersection of L.B. Scott Road and Gladiola Road will be CLOSED from Wednesday, July 27th, 2011 at 10:00 p.m. to Thursday, July 28th, 2011 at 06:00 a.m. All through traffic entering and exiting the Cul-de-Sac district within this period, will be rerouted via the secondary roads.
From Thursday, July 28th, 2011 at 06:00 a.m. until Sunday August 7th, 2011 at 06:00 a.m., the L.B. Scott Road will be OPEN for OUTBOUND TRAFFIC ONLY from the district of Cul-de-Sac up to Gladiola Road. All through traffic headed in the direction of Philipsburg and the Airport, must utilize Gladiola Road and Coralita Road.
As the L.B. Scott Road will be CLOSED for INBOUND TRAFFIC ONLY to the district of Cul-de-Sac, secondary roads must be utilized for accessing the district during this time.
Additionally, in order to alleviate the congestion at the Coralita Road and Zaeger's Gut intersection which will result from these detours, through traffic from Madame Estate going to Cole Bay and the Airport will be routed to the left at the Cottage Roundabout (Eddie's Auto Supply) and are advised to follow the Link 1 (Great Bay Hotel) route.
Finally, it advised to use the intersection Bush Road/Zaeger's Gut Road onto Coralita Road to access the Cul-de-Sac district from Philipsburg. This route also applies to through traffic originating from Welgelegen Road (Cay Hill) and A.J.C. Brouwers Road (Cole Bay/Airport).
From Monday August 8th, 2011 at 06:00 a.m. L. B. Scott Road will be opened for TWO-WAY traffic from the St. Peters Sol Gas Station to the Gladiola Road/L.B. Scott Road intersection.
In ALL cases, access will be provided for emergency services and persons residing adjacent to the works and detours.
The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs and detour routes for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the works for Main Sewage Line Ebenezer – A.T. Illidge Road Phase 1, is completed. Furthermore, the Government of St. Maarten asks for your patience and understanding for the inconveniences that this will cause.