Articles

While the expected delay of '10-10-10' may frustrate many, if not most politicians, it certainly does not result in any 'popular uprising'- or 'revolt' withing our community.
We daresay, that there will be not even a 'ripple' of popular-protest against such possible delay
On the contrary, many citizens have uttered a deep sigh of relief at the 'Divine intervention' which completely shows up arrogant statements like 'etched in stone' and 'sealed and delivered...'.
Now, whether the good lady genuinely meant it or not, to us is irrelevant at this point.
While most of the time, we have been critical of the council-lady in the past, based on principles, this time around, we reserve the rights to credit her.
To be very clear.
We do such without apologies to whomever may feel offended.
The reason we credit Council-lady Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS this time, is because of her public statement indicating that the rights of native-indigenous St. Martiners should be guaranteed in the constitution.
It is what we, as grass root St. Martin movement, have always demanded.
Therefore, not commending the lady for that, would have meant that we were partisan and that is what we always denounced, when it comes to defending what is good for the St. Martin people.
Even if the lady, made these statements based on 'opportunistic' reasons, matters not to us, for the simple- and logical reason that William MARLIN or Gracita ARRINDELL or ANY other politicians could have done that as well (for their own reason); they did NOT.
So, end of that 'story' now.
Now for the record...for the 'umpteenth' time.
Our grass root st. Martin movement was never perse for-or against any new constitutional change in the Antilles.
What we were oppose against, and very much so, was to any change that did not take into consideration the interest of the various native Antillean people on their respective islands.
In other words, everyone would remember our fundamental question to the politicians, which was NEVER answered.
WHOM is the new status supposed to benefit first and foremost ?????
As far as we are concerned, once the legitimate and historical rights of the Antilleans and therefore St. Martiners on St. Martin in our case, have been fully recognized, in the constitution of ANY new status, we will support such.
Therefore it is up to the politicians to follow the call of Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS to start the process of amending the constitution to include OUTSTANDING ISSUES.
Rest assured that in the days, weeks and months ahead our grass root movement will be very active in putting forth a number of these OUTSTANDING ISSUES.
Meanwhile, we caution the political leaders not to allow for arrogance to push them to continue championing this unfinished version of a so called constitution, which denies the very existence of the people whose name the country carries.
As it now stands, this socalled constitution, defacto it is a formal 'declaration of treason/ genocide' on the people of St. Martin and on Antilleans in general.
As such is a crime against our humanity, which can be challenged on any forum, including the UN.
So while, it appears that '10-10-10' is off the table, a real and democratic country St. Maarten is very much possible and feasible.
One that is not only St. Maarten 'in name', but to its 'constitutional core' as well.

Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia
Proud native-indigenous St. Martinesr without apologies

Dear Madam State-secretary,

Although it came as no surprise to us that the Dutch Government of which you are part, fell on Saturday last, February 20, 2010, we also expect you will remain in 'demissionary' capacity in office.
Therefore, we assume that you still will continue to function as Minister of Kingdom and Internal Affairs very much involved with the constitutional changes taking place within the Kingdom, as they relate to the Netherlands-Antilles.
In this regards, we kindly, but urgently request your attention for statements made to the media made Mrs. Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS, Island council lady on St. Maarten and leader of the DP-party.
We hereby for your kind perusal, attach these statements in this mail.
However, we hereby quote a very important concern expressed by Mrs.WESCOT-WILLIAMS in the attached news paper clipping.
Quote; Outstanding issues related to the constitution are safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Maarteners (locals) to guarantee they won't be marginialised, ......
For the record, Mrs. BIJLEVEDT-SCHOUTEN.
As St. Martin's most indisputable grass roots, non-partisan, nation building movement, we inform you that we share the same concern as expressed on this outstanding issue as Mrs.WESCOTT-WILLIAMS.
In addition, we demand that the draft constitution be amended to include such protective provision and others in general that recognize and promote the interests of the PEOPLE of the land.
After all, increasingly the interest of many illegal immigrants are being promoted at the expense of the very existence of the Antilleans residing on the island.
This uin-balanced practice is resulting in increasing social unease within or community
As it stands now and explained at every forum by our politicians, achieving 'country status/'10-10-10' for St. Maarten is exclusively about empowering politicians.
It is absolutely NOT about the PEOPLE and most certainly NOT about St. Martin and other Antillean people.
If the rights of the native St. Martin People and other Antillean people are not firmly acknowledged and protected in the constitution, that document will mean nothing other that the formal declaration of treason and genocide on these people.
Needless to emphasize that such will not reflect in a positive manner on the Dutch Government, whose international credibility already is under question, based on the fall of your government over its commitment to the people in URUZQAN in AFGHANISTAN.
In addition, in the event this anti-St.Martin/Antntillean constitution is rammed down our throats, there will of course be ramifications.
Therefore, in ending we urge your cooperation in recognizing the moral appeal of Council lady, Mrs. WESCOTT-WILLIAMS in making the necessary amendments to the draft constitutions for the so-called country St. Maarten.
Technically-, legally nor otherwise, there is absolutely no legitimate reason not to heed this request and in so doing guaranteeing that the new status is NOT only about empowering politicians, but more-so, about the empowering the PEOPLE of the land.
Looking forward to your expedient and understanding response.

Copies to all relevant stake holders.
drs. Leopold JAMES,
President SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies.

It takes a village to raise a kid.....
Fighting crime is everybody's business....
These, and other similar phrases essentially emphasize the same message.
No-one has the only answer, or the one-and-only 'magic bullet' to resolve all forms of crime.
Consequently, with the rising level of violent crimes on the island, we also witness an increase in the initiatives intended to contribute towards fighting violent in general and violent juvenile crime in particular.
These range from from increasing the effectiveness of the police force, to establishment of the Unified Crime Task Force, school initiatives, community councils and neighborhood activities etc. etc.
We too have on February 2, 2010 recently added our contribution, to this 'mix'. (see attachment)
In this letter we stressed on the importance of going beyond repressive measures alone.
To this end, we pointed out that it is critical to understand the nature of the 'forces' which drive our youngsters ultimately into the dark world of violent crime.
One way to achieve the objective of understanding the mindset of our youngsters is to conduct an island-wide (anonymous) survey among ALL youngsters.
We proposed that a mixed committee be put in place by the authorities of both sides of the island in order to formulate such a questionnaire.
This committee we suggested, should consist of among others psychologists, sociologists, educators, legal specialists, prison officials, police officers, ex-convicts etc from BOTH sides of the island.
However, to date we have not (yet) received any reactions from those in authorities.
We therefore at this time want to appeal on others such as the USM, the Lions- or Kiwani or Rotary organizations to look into this initiative in order to get a better understanding of what are the pressures and challenges our youngsters are confronted with on a daily basis.
We would like to believe, that it is only fair to the youth that we should LISTEN to them, instead of labeling them and preparing a 'medicinal cure' for them without even asking them to assess their own 'diagnosis'.
Imagine your doctor or specialist, prescribing a regimen of medicine or treatment for you, without haven't even LISTENED to your own complaints !
In the event no-one deems it necessary to respond or to take up our proposal, our organization might have no other choice than to take the initiative for such a survey.
Again, it is our contention, that if we really want to effectively combat juvenile criminality, it is a precondition that we we find out from the young people themselves what are the relevant motivating factors thus the main sources and root causes of the manifesting symptoms that cause society so much harm.
Fighting crime without understanding the cause is a symptomatic and 'blind' approach.
Even if well-intended, it is non-scientific and at best comparable to 'trying to hit a moving a target in the dark, with blind folds on' and thus not too productive to say the least.

Leopold JAMES

Now it is that the Methodist Church was given a Building permit and not a building stop. If the Church had gotten a building permit, why would a building stop have to be issued? The Methodist Church did not have a building permit for Belvedere. What the Methodist Church did have was a liaison of the Church, a National Alliance member who expected to do what he wanted, and the taxpayers must now bear the brunt. A NAF 500.000 (half a million guilders) brunt. Not because the Public Works department is in disarray should Commissioner Frans Richardson blatantly lie, and who is caught in the middle? The Methodist Church.
When the Seventh day Adventist want to build a school and the Catholic Church wants to build another church in Cole Bay, or the Muslims a new mosque they too should disobey the law and have government correct their mistake. Where in the world, say where could something like this happen.
How come Commissioner Frans Richardson did not blame the DP government for this one? You know why, because when the Church is built, he and his colleagues will want to say the NA built the church. Wrong, it's the taxpayers (Methodists, Catholics, Pentecostals, Seventh Day Adventists, and all others) who built the church as well as the civil servants who are now again been blamed. THE METHODIST CHURCH DID NOT HAVE A BUILDING PERMIT FOR BELVEDERE!!!!!! IT'S A LIE. COMMISSIONER FRANS RICHARDSON, IT'S A LIE!!!!!! If you know they have a building permit, show it.
Good Governance, Mr. Lt. Governor, remember, Good Governance. How come this was not sent up for annulment. So Theo Heyliger is being indirectly blamed for this too. He is in charge of the building permits and inspection. Theo, stand up like a man and defend your workers, especially now that you are looking for their vote. Otherwise, its UP, UP and AWAY.
The government doesn't have money to pay civil servants their retroactive, the government is blaming civil servants for leaking information to the press, but get the island secretary to write the letter telling us this.
Yet, the same government lies through its teeth about , all things, a church. But we wonder, why we can't move ahead, why people in Holland think so low of us, why 10-10-10 seems to be moving further and further away. When you bring the heat of the Christian community on you, you better run for cover. And Daily Herald, do some more research, before you publish these flimsy stories. Either have good sources or none at all.

Now, com' tell me!

Ever since,he was recognized for his work by the IMA (The Indian Merchants Association ) during its celebration of the India Republic Day on January 26, 2010, Mr. Leopold JAMES is rapidly becoming an extremely sought after stakeholder in the overall development on both sides of the island.
After so many years of championing, under very challenging circumstances the rights of the native-indigenous St. Martin people and their ancestral heritage, a growing number of people and organizations have been contacting his organization offering various types of services, network possibilities and possible funding.
Based on the tireless efforts of Leopold JAMES, the time finally seems to have come for a consensus that there can be no stable, sustainable development of the island, if it is not based on the premise, that native St. Martiners are not at the very core and/or foundation of such.
Therefore, as undisputed grass root nation building movement, which like no other has been championing the rightful and justified role of native St. Martiners, the St.Martin Nation Building Foundation and the Association L' Esprit are set to be recognized as the un-disputed representative of all native-indigenous St. Martiners residing on the island and abroad as well.
In order to be able to cope with the growing interest in the movement, Mr. Leopold JAMES, president stated that a recruitment campaign will start to solicit the input of volunteer professionals to res-structure the organization.
It is to be expected that there will be no shortage of potential candidates.

Enthusiastic, professional St. Martiners and St. Martiners-at-heart to help, on a voluntary basis to restructure the SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia to meet growing demand.
Especially volunteers with experience/expertise in the fields of legal-constitutional, organizational, financial, public-relation, multi-media etc. are welcome.
For more information, contact Leopold JAMES, president
Tel 54 43512, US Magic JACK 727 470 2560, cel 5204325/ 06 90 485855

Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

The fall of the Dutch Government late Friday night into Saturday may have repercussions for the constitutional renewal process within the Dutch Kingdom, with a delay of six to nine months.

With a lame duck Dutch government in place at this point in time, the possibility exist that the various legislation that needs to be handled by the Dutch Parliament won't take place until after new elections and after a new coalition government has been formed Holland.

Normally, after a government has fallen, pending legislation would have to wait until the next new government takes office.

On Monday, Queen Beatrix will meet with her advisors namely, the Vice President of the Council of State Herman Tjeenk Willink, the chairpersons of the First and Second Chambers of Parliament Rene van der Linden and Gerdi Verbeet, the CDA Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende and the two Vice Prime Ministers from the PvdA labour Party Wouter Bos and the Christian Union Andre Rouvoet, of the current demissionaire government.

Dutch elections are scheduled to be held within 90 days once the official notification has been given to the Queen that the Prime Minister no longer enjoys the support of the majority of parliament. Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende gave official notification on Saturday.

Dutch elections may be held in June or July for the 150-member Second Chamber of Parliament.

The issue of Afghanistan brought down the fourth coalition government led by CDA Party Prime Minister Balkenende. The government fell after the CDA and coalition partner the PvDA failed to agree on a NATO request to extend the tour of duty of close to 2000-Dutch military personnel in the Uruzgan region of Afghanistan. Dutch troops have been stationed in that country since 2006 and were to have returned home in 2008.

Another possible repercussion for the constitutional renewal process after the Dutch elections are held is the formation of the next Dutch coalition government, and which parties will make up the new cabinet.

Dutch opinion polls indicate at this point in time that the VVD-Liberal Party (The People's Party for Freedom & Democracy) and the PPV Party of Geert Wilders (Party for Freedom) will win the elections along with the CDA of Balkenende, and that a possible coalition could be formed by those three parties.

The first polls from Maurice De Hond polling bureau after the fall of the Dutch cabinet indicates that the VVD would get 23 seats, PVV 24 and the CDA 26. The latter is expected to remain the largest political party in Holland.

The VVD and PPV parties have been very critical of the constitutional renewal process within the Dutch Kingdom. Representatives of the PPV have also been very disrespectful towards the political leaders of the Netherlands Antilles as well as towards the people by making derogatory remarks against the latter.

Another possible Dutch coalition scenario would be the CDA, D66 and VVD; the Democrats 66 (D66) has been very supportive of the constitutional renewal process.

Having the CDA as part of a new Dutch coalition, the constitutional renewal process may survive based on the agreements that have been made between all stakeholders concerned. However, a delay in the process of the islands achieving their new constitutional positions on 10-10-10 should not be ruled out.

A possible delay may be from six to nine-months counting from 10-10-10, so we may be looking at April 2011 or July 2011.

Roddy Heyliger

The most recent youth-on-youth violence was an incident that took place at Sundial School early February. This resulted in school management calling an urgent meeting for parents of first form students. The meeting focused on crime and violence and what possible interventions could be taken. During the meeting the role of parents was highlighted.

Due to various acts of senseless violence on the island of Bermuda, the government has decided to implement a National Service Programme which is funded by the island government in order to restore harmony and peace within the community.

A study conducted by the CARICOM Commission on Youth Development on the situation of Caribbean youth has revealed that youth's risky behaviours such as youth violence (gang related), teenage pregnancy and HIV/AIDS are wreaking serious havoc on the economies of Caribbean nations.

The study found that murder rates in the Caribbean – at 30 per 100,000 annually – were higher than any other region in the world and that youth were the primary perpetrators, as well as the victims, of crime and violence.

The report revealed that the economic costs of youth crime had two components: the first being direct financial costs related to public expenditure on security, policing, arrest, judicial processing, and incarceration. The second component was indirect costs linked to the foreign earnings of the criminal while s/he was in prison and to the losses in tourism revenues linked to youth crimes.

Lost tourism revenues as a result of crime has reached in excess of US$200 million per year for the CARICOM region and overall youth crime was costing at least seven per cent of the region's Gross Domestic Product.

The National Service Programme could be one of the interventions for other Caribbean nations to implement and we should also consider as an avenue for our nation's youth. The Bermuda programme is designed to engage young Bermudian men and women in positive and meaningful activity to not only counter the feeling of entitlement currently held by some of the islands young people, but also address anti-social behaviour and youth problems.

The National Service Programme would allow even more of Bermuda's young adults to contribute to Bermuda's national interest, personally and professionally. It is felt that by sharing their acquired knowledge and talents with other younger Bermudians and by assisting seniors, the participants in the programme will be contributing to the development of Bermuda as a whole.

The programme is not uncommon, and has been successfully implemented in other countries, such as in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the USA and Jamaica. The Bahamas is also considering a similar program.

The Bermuda program is catering to individuals who are male and female between the ages of 24 and 30-years. Those who volunteer will be required to provide 16 hours of service per month for two consecutive years in order to complete the programme. Those who fall within the qualifying age and who are abroad studying may serve upon completion of their studies, and complete their national service before their 30th birthday.

Government and non-governmental organizations will be encouraged to provide internship programmes which would allow young adults to train and mentor younger Bermudians giving them an insight into available future careers.

The private sector would also be encouraged to become part of the national project. Businesses would also be asked to offer internship programmes that will allow those who volunteer to gain their national service hours by training and mentoring younger Bermudians. This will enable young people to gain practical knowledge of the work environment.

To encourage the success of the programme, the Bermuda Government proposes that incentives be given to participants during and after national service is completed. Such incentives may include free public transportation, funding for further education, discount card packages from various retailers, or preferential lending rates, just to mention a few.

Roddy Heyliger

Already now and even before the elections for the Island-council of St.
Maarten expected to be held in June 2010, which are supposed in fact to result in the formation of the very first Parliament for* 'Country St.
Maarten'*, many politicians are*/ 'jockying'/* themselves, in terms of getting an endorsement by the grass root St. Martin nation building- & unification movement.
During the last Federal elections of January 22, 2010, candidates from both parties had private meetings with *Mr. Leopold JAMES*, president of the movement in which they solicited his advice and coaching.
Now again, with the resignation of a candidate from the DP-list and the with the */'buzz'/* of possible new parties and of possible switching from one to the other party, all indications are that the grass root movement of *Leopold JAMES* will become one of the most powerful factors in the elections and in politics in general on both sides of the island.
The reason is very simple.
At the present moment there is a */'public fatigue'/* of all the current political parties, because in essence there are absolutely no fundamental differences between any of the existing political parties.
In addition, the *DP-party* for instance, has great problems finding a cause to rally around and inspire its members on.
At the same time, while it is at loss how to rid itself from its biggest '*/divisive factor'/*.
Therefore, there is clearly a need for, not only a new party, but for a new political/* paradigm shift*/, in which a new party is formed which _*FUNDAMENTALLY*_ profiles itself as distinctively different from *ALL* the other political parties.
Obviously, no-one can deny the fact that there is a growing consensus that the future of *BOTH* sides of the island, lies *NOT* in a continued administrative division and on two different and diverging political constitutional directions, but in *ONE* unified sense of direction.
Since, none of the existing parties ever had any vision on such a unified future for this island, they need advise, or an endorsement from a credible movement, which a proven long term track record in building and unifying the St. Martin nation.
For the record.
There is absolutely no dispute who has been the one personifying such a vision more than the president of the grass root St. Martin nation building & unification movement, *Leopold JAMES*.
Therefore, it is not that difficult to understand why more politicians will be gravitating around his movement, if not to get its endorsement, definitely not get its repudiation for being hypocritical.
Even with this growing political- and community clout, *Leopold JAMES* remains humble and focused on his vision of building the St.Martin nation and promoting its ultimate unification with the native-indigenous St. Martiners in charge of that process.
Consequently, has movement has no axe to grind with any political party or with any politician.
To the contrary, Mr. *Leopold JAMES* is very much willing and prepared to advise, coach and even endorse any politician and or political party so deserving, if necessesary.
There is one condition however.
This support will only be given after those seeking such, commit themselves and pledge to the St. Martin nation building- and unification process whereby the native-indigenous St. Martiners are clearly acknowledged as the foundation for this process.

--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

On Monday, February 15, 2010 there was an interview on PJD-2 with Mr. Remco STOMP, secretary of the Bar-Association.
In this interview the good gentleman expressed his 'concern' that ILLEGAL immigrants, based on the BTA, which represents the Law of the Land, by the way, might be deported, if they do not qualify for a temporary residence-permit.
Never mind of course, the 'little' detail that this 'concern' for offenders of the law, comes from a lawyer, whose fraternity is not exactly known for working pro-deo for any cause.
More important than the obvious 'concern' of a lawyer to protect a potentially tremendous 'market' of clients, are a number of really fundamental questions.
For instance.
What does allowing for people to BREAK the law of the land, without consideration of all consequences de facto mean for society as a whole ?
Besides.
Where does tolerating and even accepting such violation, start and where does i tend ?
Not to forget, WHO decides and who 'qualifies' to break the law without repercussions for such ?
Also.
Does it any longer make any sense at all to be law-abiding ?
In addition, what is the 'incentive' for young people NOT to get involved in criminal activities, if they see that illegality or crime can 'pay'.
People. Does it all make any logical sense to you ?
These are some very relevant issues that will be tested to determine whether or not we live in a state of law, or in a state of anarchy and lawlessness.
In the meantime, what is the 'prize', if any for people who are law-abiding ?
Or should law-abiding citizens simply be 'punished' for being 'foolish' enough to do such ?
The gist of this article, is NOT to necessarily oppose introducing a sense of 'humanitarianism' in executing the law of the land.
Quite to the contrary.
The question is, if we apply some 'leniency' in to certain groups of people, shouldn't the overall 'socio-economic equation' be adjusted as well to guarantee fairness, equity and socio-economic balance, by also rewarding the 'other side' of the equation ?
How you ask ?
Fair question.
We figured out such a 'delicately' balancing scheme many years ago.
Remember our proposed 'MARSHALL PLAN' for the 'Friendly-island' ?
Ask the politicians why they have not implemented such a policy ?
And especially question them why they prefer to keep the socio-economic situation increasingly out of balance and consequently very unstable, pitting groups up against each other.
The great thing about this concept is, that it allows for all kinds of 'favors' /'exemptions' to be granted to certain groups of people by immediately compensating such by making the corresponding adjustments to others in the overall 'socio-economic' equation.
What might be bad about this idea ?
Perhaps that it was not conceived by highly paid foreign consultants or 'smart lawyers', but it was formulated by a group of natives from 'right here'.
Meanwhile, even suggesting that the BTA be 'set aside' by allowing for illegal persons to remain on the island, might only serve to fuel the flame of mutual distrust between locals and illegal immigrants.
Lawyers and Government should be smarter that that.

Do have a nice day.

--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

All radio- and tv. talk-show hosts and stations.

Re; Promoting free speech of public on how best to help Haiti.

2. Our http://ipetition.stmartinnation.org, which as a far more comprehensive approach (A 'MARSHALL PLAN' for Haitians) aimed at contributing towards a sustainable-, long term solution for Haiti and its people in Haiti.without adding more burdens the the region and its people.

Since this adding even more immigrants to our already very dire and explosive mix will have very far reaching consequences, not only for (French)Saint Martin, but also for (Dutch) St.Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius and the rest of the Caribbean region, it is time to allow for the public to give its feelings on this subject via your respective radio and tv-programs in order to bring 'balance' and reasoning in this discussion.

Taking into account, the rights of free expression of all people, it is important that radio-and t.v.- talk show hosts respect this right even, if they might not always agree or disagree with the opinions of those wishing to make use of this right.

With respect,

--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

An I-petition 'For the love of Haiti and its People', has just been launched online via this website (http://ipetition.stmartinnation.org).
This I-petition is the initiative of the well known St. Martin nation building grass root movement on the island of St.Martin/Sint Maarten.
While this grass root St. Martin movement has already committed itself financially and otherwise to helping the victims of the January 12, Haiti's earthquake, it remains committed to continuing helping the people of Haiti deal with their immediate and short term needs and it strongly encourages others to do the same as well.
However, this movement is also very much aware of the fact that, sooner or later the world's media will focus its attention to other 'hot' spots in the world, resulting in the attention of the world shifting away from the ongoing hardships and needs of the Haitian people.
With that in mind, the St. Martin grass root movement intends to capitalize the current focus of the international media on situation in Haiti in order to put in place a process for sustainable, long term assistance for the Haiti.
With this objective in mind, the movement has created the world's first known I-Petition in which creative ideas are presented aimed at contributing towards a sustainable, long term solution in Haiti.
Such a sustainable, long term solution is not only in the best interest of Haiti and its people, but also for the islands in the Caribbean region, who have always been a haven for Haitian immigrants, but whose small size, and limited resources and infra structure can no longer bear any more immigration burden.
Clearly, while Haiti most definitely should be massively helped financially, in all fairness, so should many of its Caribbean neighbors also for their sacrifices over many decades in helping their Haitian brothers and sisters.
It is hoped that by signing up to this I-petition, individuals world-wide, can now demonstrate their true love for Haiti and its people.
In addition, the local St.Maarten/St. Martin media, the regional media and the international media, also have a responsibility to go further than promoting only telethons for donations for the short term, but commit themselves also to the long haul.
Clearly supporting this I-Petition gives them a wonderful opportunity.
Eventually this I-petition is expected to reach the UN, the Governments of the US, France, the UK, CARICOM, former Presidents Bill CLINTON, George BUSH and many others and consequently start the process of a MARSHALL PLAN for Haiti.
For more information go to I-Petition.

After listening to the call-in program of Mr. Lloyd RICHARDSON this afternoon, Tuesday, February 2, 2010, I called in after the program and shared with him my little contribution on how to possibly deal with the escalating (problem-) youth and the youth in general.
Most of the callers who called in to the program this afternoon, in fact proposed REPRESSIVE measures to curb the escalating crime perpetrated by young people.
While to me, that certainly is also necessary, not dealing PREVENTATIVELY with youngsters, will not entire solve the problem of youth delinquency.
Rather, the crime will simply shift to other areas of society and be be 'mutated' , to the new set of circumstances.
It is important that we get the the MOTIVE of the criminal intent of young people and of people in general, if we are to resolve these problems other than responding and fighting the symptoms of their behavior.
I therefore believe that society must find a way, to MENTALLY or PSYCHOLOGICALLY connect with our youth.
In other words, we need to get in their minds to UNDERSTAND their thinking and motives for engaging in asocial and criminal activities.
Perhaps therefore, the Island Government of St. Martin and the Collectivity of Saint Martin establish a joint work-group of psychologists, social workers, teachers, ex-cons, etc. to come up with an island-wide save our youth project.

This should include for instance;
1. Involving all the schools on the island to dedicate part of their classes-time to a particular section of this project on the same days (synergy)
2. Involving all churches, talk-shows, etc. etc.
3. Design a very extensive and informative (anonymous) questionnaire for ALL children to participate in with questions about their situation at home, on the streets, at school, their dreams, wishes, fears, desires, where they get weapons, how they get these weapons etc. etc.
4. Have a special website for young people to express themselves and also to post the questionnaire on.
5. Organize a large, joint public forum on fighting crime
6. etc.
I would like to believe that such a project would be able to give us the best and the most complete insight into the minds of our kids and thus into the motives that make them 'click'

These are just a few suggestions, to contribute towards addressing a very serious and escalating problem, that will sooner or later totally paralyze our economy and social life if not brought under control..

I am willing to completely discard this idea for those who are willing to also express any better ideas.
However, doing nothing is no option.

Hoping that the Authorities on both sides of the island would be interested in taking this and other initiatives by the public into consideration
.
After all, too often it is said that the authorities alone can not solve the crime.

With respect,

Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------

Did you also read what the former Leader of Government, and current Island-Council Lady, and DP-leader, Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS reportedly said to the press on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 ?
Here is a very interesting quote of the news-paper clipping hereby attached.
'Outstanding issues to the constitution are safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Maarteners to guarantee that they won't be marginalised'.
When I actually read it, I too wondered, whether it was a mistake by the newspaper, or whether the lady was 'out of touch' with the 'modus operandi' of politicians to be 'politically correct' in order to stay in power for as long as it takes...
Or, just remotely, maybe, perhaps, it was no mistake and that the lady really has seen the light and really is sincere about what she said..
Granted, her DP-party has been in Government for about a half century, more than any other party in the island's history...
Granted as well, that her DP-party more than any other institution on the island, is responsible for the loss of identity and pride in their heritage of native-indigenous St. Martiners...
Granted too, is the fact that the DP-party deserves the 'un-distinct recognition', for having giving 'foreigners' the feeling that there was no need to acknowledge, let alone respect native-indigenous St. Martiners.
Oh yes, more than any other organization it has been the DP-party that has transformed and elevated vices such as greed, materialism and disregard for our native heritage and monuments into a national policy, which resulted into a total lack of self-confidence of the native St. Martiners.
Certainly, more than any other institution also, the DP is responsible for the native St. Martiners following into the foot-steps of their predecessors the Amer-Indians towards oblivion, extinction and genocide by substitution.
Therefore, to many the recent comments made by the leader of the DP, Mrs. Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS pertaining to safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Martin people, can come across as a monumental paradigm-shift, in every sense of the word on the island.
However.
Whether, she made these comments based on opportunism, or because she is in the opposition, or because she now is in much closer contact with the real life of the St. Martiners, or even whether via the younger members on her party-list, she finally is getting the message we have been preaching for decades, is even less relevant.
Less relevant, because not even the NA, nor the PPA when in opposition ever showed that concern for the native-indigenous St. Martiners.
Less relevant as well, because we have in the past, also encouraged drs.Gracita ARRINDELL, leader of the PPA to fight for inclusion of the rights of the native St. Martiners in the constitution, exactly what Sarah is purporting to do now.
She never did as far as we know.
Again, was this out of 'political correctness' , so that the PPA would be able to capitalize on the 'multi-cultural' votes at the expense of the native St. Martiners ?
How ironic now therefore, that it is no-one else than DP-leader Sarah who thus far is the ONLY politician, publicly standing up for the native-indigenous St. Martiners to be recognized in the constitution !!!
Therefore, what is relevant is that Sarah had the courage to utter that statement publicly.
In addition, as we have stated many times before and have also, especially advised the youngsters on both sides of the island the following.
Yes, loyalty to your party- and leader is a moral must.
However, the challenge for ALL young politicians will be to develop a loyalty of a much higher level.
That is loyalty to the all the people on the entire island of St. Martin and to the principle that the native-indigenous St. Martiners must come first and be recognized as host of this country in order to allow for all others to be grounded through our native heritage.
We have on many occasion lambasted the constitution as being a 'soulless' document, a 'clinical manual', a 'copy-and paste' and very boring document.
Reason for us feeling that way you ask ?
Simple.
It does not have a PREAMBLE reflecting EMOTIONS, PATRIOTISM, we the PEOPLE of this island, our HISTORY, our EMANCIPATION-STRUGGLES, our sacred rights to FINALIZE THEIR EMANCIPATION TOWARDS SELF-DETERMINATION, our CULTURAL-HERITAGE, etc.
In ending, allow me to sincerely commend Sarah for this bold, but very necessary statement and t express the hope that not only she means it, but that she is prepared to take it to the next level of getting it implemented within the constitution.
For the record.
We are not too big to sit down with Sarah and with all those who are interested in making use of our network, our established reputation and track-record in order to amend the constitution and to promote the St. Martin nation building process and ultimate unification, because only a strong St. Martin people and St. Martin cultural-heritage can offer others the most stable and viable foundation and 'soil' to establish their roots in as well.
Sarah, the choice is yours,

With respect,

Leopold JAMES
President SNBF & the Association L'Esprit de Concordia.
Proud native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies.

Not that it is a most scientific poll perhaps.
Nevertheless, a 'snap-shot' poll presently being conducted by the online version of the Dutch daily newspaper the TELEGRAAF (www.telegraaf.nl) on Thursday, February 18, 2010 is very interesting to say the least.
Certainly, it could be a very ominous sign for St. Maarten's most coveted '10-10-10 country status'
In the poll among some 41.158 (almost forty two thousand voters) 84 % said not to have any more confidence in the present Dutch cabinet-coalition, led by Mr J.P. BALKENENDE.
Only some 18 % expressed to still have confidence in his Government.
In fact, this poll clearly reflects a very negative expectation that this Cabinet may well fall within days over the role of the Dutch military in Afghanistan.
A possible cabinet crisis in the Dutch Government would signify a most unwelcome obstacle in the process of constitutional change in the Antilles, including the euphoric expectation of the local St. Maarten politicians for their coveted '10-10-10 Country St. Maarten status'.
And with the PVV of Geert WILDERS only growing in size in the Netherlands, the possible fall of the BALKENENDE-cabinet could mean that the constitutional talks would have hit a serious 'snag'.
Even if WILDERS is not directly elected in any new Dutch Cabinet, by no means can any new cabinet ignore his message in their governing accord.
With all of this looming at the horizon, it should be clear that St. Maarten needs every bit of support on the island in order to be able to negotiate any new status with a new Dutch Government.
Consequently, any social- or political division on St. Maarten's home front will be effectively exploited by the lieutenants of WILDERS, such Hero BRINKMAN
So, 'Country status St. Maarten 10-10-10' might be a real challenge, if not a head-ache to say the least.
We have always said and repeat that if any constitutional changes do not take in the first place the interest of the native St. Martiners into account, its future seems bleak to say the least and the politicians will be made to give an account for the mess..

--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia

In reference to statements made by you as reported in the Daily Herald of, Wednesday, February 17, 2010, as well as our response to you as reported on the website, www.smn-news.com, we hereby make ourselves available to you as well as other interested parties, in order to give content to your proposal to amend the draft constitution to contain, among others the protection of the rights of the native-indigenous St. Martiners.
Although there are those, who criticize you for being hypocritical, because your party which has been Government longer than any other party, had ample opportunity to propose this vital provision in the constitution, we give you the benefit of the doubt.
Considering the fact that as a people, we do not have the luxury of focusing on who is at fault/not at fault, it is our contention that we should move forward and learn from past mistakes.
We therefore, hereby look forward to your response in giving real content to your proposal in order to guarantee the survival and protection of the native-indigenous St. Martin People.
In addition, we are very pleased that, finally our vision is becoming better understood by 'mainstream' St. Maarten/Saint Martin as well as organizations as the IMA..
In particular, it is a very positive development, that people are realizing and accepting the fact that protecting one's own native people, is a moral obligation which can perfectly be combined with including others in the nation building process and the socio-economical development in general.
As a matter of fact, it is the most logical and moral way forward in developing a sustainable, harmonious and balanced society.
In ending Mrs. WESCOT-WILLIAMS, how can we truly care-, let alone love and include others, if we do not love our first.
That would be a most fundamental 'oxymoron' to say the least.
Clearly, anyone who fails to understand such a fundamental- and universal principle, can hardly be considered of any good faith or 'added value' to any community.
Once more Council lady, our compliments for your proposal, which should now be transformed into reality in order to have been of any value.
Hopefully, the NA as well as the PPA will not miss out on this opportunity as well to correct having forfeited the rights of native indigenous St. Martiners in return for the 'favors' of others electing them into office.
We guarantee that, this time around, there will be a real prize to be paid by any politicians, who betrays the people of this island.

With respect,
Leopold JAMES
President SNBF & Association L' Esprit de Concordia
A proud native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies

 

The alleged gang incident on Friday involving a school bus and a group of young men on the road resulted in an exchange of bottles and bullets. A shot fired narrowly missed a passer-by is a very serious development and escalation in so-called gang related incidents on the island. Some witnesses remember hearing two gun-shots, the second one not coming from the school bus.

A stray bullet struck a passing car and lodged in the car seat headrest. What if there was a person sitting in that seat? That person could have been killed? What if the car was driven by a tourist whose passenger was struck and killed? The latter could have some very serious repercussions for our nation's one-pillar based tourist economy.

Gun-totting and machete wielding teenagers does not display a good image as a tourist destination. A police control of the students and the school bus after it was intercepted led to law enforcement officers finding a .38-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver in a girl's schoolbag besides two machetes and three knives.

The tourist vessel Star Clipper announced last week that it was dropping calls to Antigua & Barbuda after one of its cruise passengers was murdered on the island. The 227-passenger Royal Clipper will now visit Nevis instead.

Antigua has been a popular destination for the cruise line and Star Clipper vessels have been calling at Antigua for many years without incident. The CEO of Star Clipper reportedly said that the cruise line will continue to monitor the security situation and evaluate their options for the next winter season regarding returning to the island.

What happened in Antigua where a cruise line pulled out could happen in any other Caribbean cruise destination including St. Maarten. If we as a nation do not get a hand on crime, we are looking at such a scenario.

Bermuda has an on-going gang problem. The Bermuda government has established a number of safe houses for people who want to break away from gangs. The houses have been set up to offer people the protection they need and help them start their new lifestyles. Another option being considered by the Bermuda government is a curfew.

What motivates young people to turn to gangs? This is the crux of the problem, and once you understand why this is taking place, only then can you develop intervention measures to resolve the issues or at least put policies in place to deal with the challenges being faced by young people.

Dialogue with gang members is one option. A Bermuda member of parliament Michael Weeks says, "We must address gang issues to end the violence." Young people who join gangs feel shunned and disenfranchised by mainstream society and are in need of education and employment.

Weeks believes the only way to stop the violence is to listen to gang members. "We have to get them round the table to hear them out and address their issues. They are in an underworld that is separate from the rest of Bermuda – we have to bring them back to mainstream society," Weeks pointed out.

Perhaps this is one of the options for St. Maarten - speaking with persons who are a member of a gang or who have been involved in gang activity. The writing is on the wall, and every incident that has taken place to date has shown an escalation in gang activity on the island. The time for action is now!

Roddy Heyliger

Philipsburg: --- Police were called to the St. Maarten Medical Center on Friday after two persons went to the hospital seeking medical treatment for bullet wounds. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that at approximately 07.30 p.m. the Central Police Dispatch directed detectives to the Sint Maarten Medical Center to investigate a shooting incident. Henson said two men were shot during an argument shortly before. Immediately after receiving this call, the detectives went to the hospital to investigate the matter.

At the Sint Maarten Medical Center, the detectives spoke to the two victims who were brought in by private car. The initials of the victims are J.B. from the Dominican Republic and M.G. from Jamaica. J.B. had a flesh wound (in and out) to his upper left leg and M.G. had a bullet wound to his left foot. J.B. stated that he was driving in his car in the vicinity of Star Ocean Supermarket on Caracas drive in Dutch Quarter, when he saw the suspect he knows with initial J. J. according to J.B. the suspect had an unknown object hidden under his shirt and kept pointing at him. J.B. came out of the car at and an argument started between them. Both parties started pushing each other at which time a gun, which J.J had hidden under his shirt, fell to the ground. J.J picked up the gun and a shot suddenly went off hitting M.G on his lower right leg as he was sitting on the step of the supermarket. M.G. immediately got up and headed towards his home, which is located in close proximity. According to M.G., he saw when the argument was going on between J.B. and J.J and while trying to reach his home after being shot, he heard when a second shot went off. He did not see the actual shooting. M.G. said he was taken to the hospital by a friend in a private car. J.B. stated he felt threatened by J. and was shot for no reason. M.G. was operated on to remove the bullet from his leg. J.B. was treated and could go home. The detective and Forensic departments are busy investigating this case and hope within short to have this case closed.

(Press Release by Ricardo Henson)

GREAT BAY:--- On Tuesday afternoon February 2nd 2010, Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards was paid a courtesy visit by current Miss Caribe Hibiscus Yoly Hawley of St. Maarten. Also present were Commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman as a representative of the Executive Council and accompanying Miss Caribe Hibiscus, Mr. Patrick Eugene Director of the Miss Caribe Hibiscus Pageant.

St.Kitts:--- A Guyanese woman is still in police custody despite being fined for a crime after elections charges that was brought against her is now in further hot water as despite the magistrate's ruling they are refusing to release her. Joylyn Ross was convicted and fined for being at the polling station with a Motorola phone on Election Day. While a second charge which was brought against her was dismissed. She was convicted on the first charge and fined $3,000.00 XCD which the magistrate ordered must be paid within six months.

However, the police are refusing to release Ross despite the magistrate Yasmine Clarke concluding that the issue of Ross immigration status will have to be determined by the Ministry of National Security. The police are contending that Ross has no legal time on the island and therefore cannot be release. She has however been asked by the police to pay the fine and also to secure a ticket to Guyana. When the case was first called in court today (yesterday) morning to an overflowing court room, Chesley Hamilton appeared for the defense while the police had their case presented by Inspector Trevor Mills. Hamilton is however contending that the action of the police demonstrates that they have disobeyed the court's ruling stressing that the police have flouted the court's ruling.

The inspector argued that the defendant had no legal time on the island and thus should not be granted bail in reference to bail application which was put forward by Hamilton. The magistrate then asked; "...can I release her if she don't have time on the island," responding to the magistrate's question both Inspector Mills and Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Liburd rose and responded by stating no. "If she was granted bail by this court we will re-arrest her your honour as she is in breach of immigration policy," Liburd said. The magistrate then noted that the law gives the police certain powers which also centers around immigration. "There is two matters here, one that deals with criminal and the other that addresses immigration and I want to state that I have no authority , no jurisdiction on immigration related matters," the magistrate told the packed courtroom.

As magistrate Yasmine Clarke made her statement, Hamilton requested time to converse with his client so as to get the details of the case as he pointed out in court that he was only contracted as the woman's lawyer the very morning. Liburd reiterated that the woman has no immigration status noting that bail should be refused as Hamilton sought again to convince the magistrate to release the woman on bail. After both the prosecution and defense were evidently on loggerheads with regards to whether and how the matter should proceed the magistrate enquired if the police was ready to proceed with the case if she was going to hear it, they responded in the affirmative.

During at the break the Assistant Commissioner of Police was asked by this reporter if the public were properly sensitized on the new law which was passed in December of 2009 in parliament. He said that he is satisfied that the public was fully aware noting that leading up to the elections there were several notices cautioning voters on the use of their mobile phones. "The public had sufficient time to become aware of the new law and therefore I believe that they were fully aware of it," he said.

It was then decided to adjourn the case for 1.30pm after Hamilton's 1.00pm request was turned down. When the case got started at 1.30 Ross made her first appearance and after a brief presentation by Hamilton who requested the court's mercy on the woman taking into account that it was her first brush with the law the magistrate in handing down her judgment ordered that Ross pay the state the some of three thousand dollars within the space of six months. In speaking to this reporter Ross said that she had hoped to be given an opportunity to address the court in her defense. When asked as to her thoughts on the decision the mother of one broke down in tears saying; "...all I want is to be able to be set free and see my daughter, God, my God why are they treating me like a criminal I am no criminal and this is not fair," a tearful Ross said.

She said that while she has been given six months to pay her fine the immigration authorities should allow her some time on the island so as to get a few things in order as she has a number of things at her apartment among other things that needed to be sorted out and treating her like a common criminal. She said that she is fully aware that her situation is one of political mischief being created so as to silence persons who want to speak out. "This can never be fair and it pains my heart to know that I am being kept away from my three year old daughter as I do not know how she is doing, I trust that the Prime Minister will come through with his promise of looking into my matter as I need his intervention because I have no problem in leaving but I beg to be given a chance to leave properly," a broken hearted Ross said.

Police Public and Press Officer, Inspector Vaughn Henderson said that immigration police gives the Commissioner of Police as the Chief Immigration officer the right to decide whether someone should be deported or not adding that the actions of the police are not 'out of line'.

PHILIPSBURG—Imbali Center for Creative Movement is announcing the dates for its upcoming theatrical production Boudoir Secrets: Journey into the Erotica, which is scheduled to run at the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center from February 13 thru 20.
The production's premier is set to be something special, with show time starting at 12am on Sunday February 14 (Valentine's morning) and running until approximately 1.30am. The venue will open at 11.30pm and those who have purchased tickets in advance will be given first preference. On the other dates the show will begin at 8pm sharp and the gate will open at 7.30pm.
Boudoir Secrets, was choreographed by Imbali founder Clara Reyes, who is also the show's director. Reyes and her mixed gender cast have been rehearsing non-stop for several weeks and promise that this production is one that will leave audiences chanting for more.
"I, along with several of my friends and associates, have been trying to put this production together for quite a few years. When In The Company of Women Presents The Vagina Monologues St. Martin ended over two years ago this production was already on the table, but the timing was always off. Now is the time. The cast is ready; they have been begging to do it for some time now, I'm ready and most importantly I think the people of St. Maarten/St. Martin are ready," Reyes said.
According to Reyes the motivation for putting together Boudoir Secrets stemmed from the inhibited ways in which topics of sexuality was dealt with by some during The Vagina Monologues.
"During that show I realized how taboo talking about sex still was on the island and yet there are so many people who want to talk openly and honestly about it. We have all these traditions, expectations, and reservations about being sexual and yet we are, so that is what this particular production deals with from many, many angles. During monologues the cast had all these stories about reactions in the community to the idea of a show dealing with sex and then later with some of the sexual content, but this is a subject matter that needs to be touched in order to gain new understanding and perspective. We want people to walk away thinking about how their own thoughts about sexuality have been formed and guide their lives and of course, also having enjoyed themselves," Reyes said.
Reyes said that those familiar with her productions can expect a format similar to History and Vagina Monologues. The show is built around dance, poetry and skits all dealing with sexuality and erotica and is most definitely for adult audiences only.
"This show is not for children and we do not encourage parents to bring along youngsters. In fact, those under 18 will most definitely be turned away. The content of this production tackles very adult topics, but in both serious and amusing ways," Reyes said.
Reyes said that there will several pieces of erotic poems and songs and stated that her cast would be dancing some spicy, titillating pieces.
"As I said the cast is ready, in fact their more than ready. They came with their own ideas and stories and together we developed this show for the people of St. Maarten/St. Martin. I'm encouraging everyone to come out and see for themselves what this production is all about. We promise you will not be disappointed," Reyes said.
Tickets for Boudoir Secrets: Journey into the Erotica cost $20 in advance and $25 at the gate and can be purchased at Imbali Center for Creative Movement in the John Larmonie Center on Longwall Rd or at Pete's Photo on Bush Road. More information about the production can also be obtained by contacting Reyes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 554-9364.

Great Bay:--- Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson has expressed satisfaction at a pilot project that would soon see environmental code of conduct signage displayed at some of our most frequented beaches and marinas.
"This is a much needed project that will help us to preserve our environment for future generations to also enjoy and make our tourism product to remain competitive," the Commissioner commented when the pilot project was recently presented to him. "It certainly has my full support," he said.
The project is a collaborative effort of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and EPIC (Environmental Protection in the Caribbean), who have adopted the code of conduct guidelines of the Blue Flag Program that is aimed at promoting sustainable development in the coastal areas through high water quality standards, safety standards, environmental management standards and environmental education. EPIC is the local coordinator for the Blue Flag Program.
The Blue Flag Programme started in France in 1985 and is coordinated by the non-profit organization, Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Many countries from around the globe are now participants in this Programme.
According to Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism, five beaches and the Simpson Bay Lagoon marina have been identified for this pilot project. They are the Simpson Bay, Mullet Bay, Kim Sha, Little Bay, and Great Bay beaches.

"The project involves putting up some 32 signs and 24 garbage bins at these beaches and a sign at the Lagoon Marina," LaBega explained. "The code of conduct signs will spell out the do's and don'ts for beach users and indicate the amenities available at the beaches."

"These signs will be easily visible to the public and placed at all major entrance points," the Director of Tourism added. "Apart from tourist information and emergency telephone numbers for the Police, Fire, and Ambulance Departments, the signs will also indicate rules about camping fires, vehicles on the beaches and the use of the garbage bins."

Rueben Thompson of EPIC explained that the environmental codes of conduct are "benchmarks used to control the impact of tourism on nature and on cultural resources to achieve sustainable tourism."
"In other words," he said, "they are a set of principles which constitute guidelines on how to behave in an environmentally responsible and correct manner when visiting places of environmental and cultural importance."

Thompson said that this phase of the project is an essential step towards Blue Flag certification of the island's beaches and marinas which enjoys the enthusiastic support of Commissioner Frans Richardson who called the Blue Flag Program "a great and much needed initiative."
The code of conduct signs will carry warnings such as:
1. Do not touch living marine wildlife, such as coral, animals, etc.
2. Do not collect souvenirs
3. Do not stand or rest on coral reefs
4. Never harass aquatic animals for your amusement
5. Always be aware of your position in the water and that of your dive gear, in
relation to marine animals and the coral reef.
6. Do not feed marine animals.

The project will be accompanied by an intensive Public Relations campaign about the importance of preserving the environment and keeping our beaches and marinas clean. The campaign will target mainly the general public, the school community and visitors (hotel guests, cruise ship passengers, etc.)

Philipsburg: --- Members of the RST and Federal Detectives have detained officer Germaine Semeleer who has been on suspension for over a year now as they investigate the brutal murder of Christian Lloyd. Officer Semeleer was involved in the kidnapping of some prostitutes from Crystal Bar sometime ago. He was convicted in the court of First Instance and has since appealed.
Lloyd was found dead in his St. Peters home on January 25th 2010; police said Lloyd was found on his bed covered in blood. To date police have not released the types of injuries that killed the well known pageant trainer. An autopsy was scheduled to take place on Tuesday to determine the cause of death.
Sources told SMN News that police got information about the alleged killer the same day they went to the murder scene to remove the body of Christian Lloyd. SMN News learnt that the "village boys" of St. Peters gave police detailed information about the suspended officer whose car was seen leaving the crime scene. Police also intercepted the victim's phone records and saw that officer Semeleer was the last person that allegedly spoke to Lloyd prior to his death.
SMN News learnt that the police internal affairs on St. Maarten started an investigation on the alleged suspect the moment they were notified. However, the case has been transferred to Curacao. It is not clear if Semeleer willingly surrendered to police and left with the officers to his native island of Curacao and is cooperating with the ongoing investigations.
SMN News carried an article on Friday evening explaining that that there have been consistent rumors within the community of St. Maarten linking a suspended officer to one of the recent murders, but police and the prosecutor's office were tightlipped about the investigation.

In an invited comment Prosecutor Rienk Mud said no one was arrested in the murder of Christian Lloyd but several persons are being heard (questioned) by the police as the investigations proceed. Mud said he would not be giving any comment on the ongoing investigations since it is very much in its early stages.

The St. Maarten Police Department (KPSSS) have had its fair share of negativity from within the force causing long serving and dedicated officers of the force to face shame and disgrace. The court of first instance convicted several immigration officers, including the former head of immigration and the Chief Commissioner of Police for corruption, forgery and bribery. Officers were also convicted for taking bribes and extortion but this is the first time an officer has been detained in a murder investigation.
SMN News also learnt that officer Semeleer was in a relationship with the victim as well as with one of his colleagues working at SLAC office stationed at the Simpson Bay Police Outpost.
While SMN News has reported that officer Semeleer is on suspension from the police force it is not clear if he has been officially fired from the force. SMN News is receiving conflicting information on the working status of Semeleer since both the police and prosecutor's office has refused to elaborate on the suspect and the investigation. Officer Semeleer was convicted for illegal house search, and he appealed the verdict. It is still not clear if the case has been finalized in the judicial system of the Netherlands Antilles.

Presently reporters on St. Maarten have to rely on information they receive on the streets since law enforcement is not releasing any type of information to the media. It is however, very difficult for media outlets to publish accurate information without the cooperation of both the police and the public prosecutor's office.
Due to the lack of information there were rumors throughout the community of St. Maarten on Tuesday linking brigadier Giovanni Sprott to this murder investigation. Members of the community went as far as publishing Sprott's name on Facebook claiming that he was arrested for this ongoing investigation. Currently Sprott is on sick leave and has spoken to this reporter several times on Tuesday. When contacted about the recent incident he said that people went very far because they contacted his mother and told her he was arrested for murder. "This caused my mom to fall sick, people also contacted my daughter who is studying abroad with the same information Sprott said people should get their facts straight before smearing anyone.

MARIGOT— The gendarmes have arrested two young men ages 19 and 20 on Tuesday, the two are suspected of thefts with violence. The duo is suspected of beating up a man on January 28 in French Quarter and stole his money and cellular phone. The victim was on medical leave for two days. The two would have appear in court on March 18.

This coming Friday February 5th at 4pm EPIC, St. Maarten Pride Foundation, Nature Foundation and the Seaside Nature Park will be planting 25 Buttonwood Trees (plants found along St. Maarten's coast) at the Seaside Nature Park's grounds in Cay Bay in commemoration of World Wetlands Day which is on February 2nd, 2010 and in recognition of the importance of St. Maarten's wetlands and coastal zones. The Foundations are asking all volunteers, organizations and interested individuals to come out and help.

 

Philipsburg: --- Members of the Chamber of Labour Unions as well as Attorney at law Bonita Hart met with a large number of Haitians at the WIFOL building on Sunday evening as they updated the Haitian community on how to process their legal documents. Hart in an invited comment said several members of the Haitian community contacted her office as they are trying to process their documents now that the Brooks Tower Accord is over.
"Most of these people are trying get some sort of document so that they can go back to their country which was devastated by earthquake on January 12." Hart said she saw an interview where the Minister Jacoba gave detailed information which she believed the Haitians need to know and thus they at the WIFOL has decided to hold some information session. "Last week we had over 120 persons who came here for information and tonight it was full again." Hart explained that Haitians nationals can visit them at the WIFOL as of Tuesday so they can begin preparing letters to send to the BTA committee, where they would claim humanitarians' grounds under the BTA for Haitians nationals. She said while the Minister of Justice made clear that there would be no extension on the BTA due to lack of funds the Minister also said that people can send a letter to the committee, furthermore the Minister acknowledged that the largest group of people who did not get help were from category three. She said there are people who came here after 2006 and are working and they are not legal.
Asked if there is a legal fee attached by her law firm? Hart said there are no legal fees attached but those seeking assistance from the Chamber of Labour Unions and her will be asked to provide a donation since they have to buy paper, ink and materials do the work that will be asked of them. She said they as a group is trying to offer the Haitians some sort of assistance due to the earthquake.
Hart said while the BTA process is over people who are here since 2001 still have a chance to submit a letter and their documents to the BTA committee so they can get one last chance to become legal.

Philipsburg:---On Monday afternoon February 22nd, 2010 Mr. Maritza Boekhoudt L.L.M., notary on Sint Maarten passed the deed to establish the Sint Maarten Alzheimer Foundation (SMAF).

After six months of preparation, the formalization of the SMAF gave way to the organized development and improvement of prevention and care of all forms of dementia and of the disease of Alzheimer in particular on the island of St Maarten.

The SMAF board consists of persons whose lives have been affected by dementia or Alzheimer disease of a loved one in their family. These are Keith Franca (president), Raymond Jessurun (secretary), Patricia Krolis (treasurer), Patricia Pantophlet and Sophia Farrell. The SMAF will soon appoint local and international caregivers and professionals with expertise and experience on dementia and Alzheimer to advise and support the board of the Foundation in the realization of its programs and activities.

This weekend from Friday February 26 until Sunday February 28, the Alzheimer Foundation of Curacao will organize a symposium in the Curacao Hilton Hotel on the occasion of their 10th anniversary.

The secretary of the St Maarten Alzheimer Foundation drs Raymond Jessurun is invited to deliver a presentation on the Rights of Older Persons and the rights of Dementia and Alzheimer patients and caregivers in particular.

Furthermore, Mr. Jessurun will have meetings to explore possibilities of cooperation between the St Maarten Alzheimer Foundation, and Fundacion Alzheimer Aruba, Alzheimer Foundation Curacao, Alzheimer Foundation of the Netherlands and Alzheimer Disease International.

More information concerning the Sint Maarten Alzheimer Foundation programs and activities will be presented in the following weeks.

...

Airport:---"I beckon on each employee to give more, do not be contented with what you are giving as we should continue to aspire for greater and higher performance. In 2010 I would like to urge you all to let us raise the bar of our customer service even more," Managing Director of Windward Islands Airways told a large gathering of employees.

Mr. Hodge was at the time delivering the feature address at the airline's Activity's Club end of year dinner which was attended by employees and family members. The event which was held at the Diamond Chateau in Cole Bay attracted a significant number of employees. Hodge said that while he has the detailed figures regarding the company's performance in 2009 he refused to disclose same noting that the event was geared at recognizing some employees who he said went beyond the call of duty so as to ensure the continued growth of the airline.

He reminded employees that while the airline paid out its symbolic bonuses for 2009 that they should not become complacent as 2010 will be as tough as the previous year. He admitted that since taking over the reigns as managing Director of Winair 2009 has been his most difficult and challenging year.

The MD declared that every area of service is critically important if the airline which have been in existence for the past 48 years is to continue growing. He urged his employees to be more involved in lending what he called a 'helping hand' in ensuring that Winair remains viable, reliable and accountable. Hodge said that while he and his Management Team have been able to confront the many and increased challenges during 2009 it was characterized by a constant need to respond to the many growing challenges in effectively running an airline company. "It is important to note though that we were never caught off guard as the level of service delivered by you kept us on guard thus being able to confront the difficulties," he said.

He told staff members that as the company move forward with yet another uncertain year that is of paramount importance for the survival of the airline will the initiatives and systems that are introduced to the public. He said that these initiatives and systems are geared towards remaining competitive and ahead of their competition. He demanded that employees must be able to enhance their productive capacity and also the capacity as an airline thus being able to thrive successfully.

"We must recognize that the way we did business in 2009 cannot continue any more as with each passing day so must our level of service and competence increase as the challenges face both competitively and economically continues to increase," he said

He added, "I urge each team member to recognize that he/she will certainly have to raise their production level of service thus ensuring that Winair can compete properly". He went on to point out that on the issue of eradicating incompetence and lackadaisical approach to responsibility he made mention some employees who he said affected the overall performance if the airline during last year. "You the one who are carrying your fair load and even extra you have to pull them along and tell them that they are affecting the improvements of your company," he said. He stressed the need to continue promoting the airline as one for the people of the region noting that if employees are going to increase the company's revenue and job security they would need to give high service and productivity thus leaving an indomitable impact on customers. "We must carry out our daily tasks with urgency, pride, dignity and most importantly professionalism," he reminded staff members.

St. Peters: --- Students of the Starlight Education Foundation are again in limbo since they are once again out of school. SMN News learnt from a few parents that they were called to the school on Monday morning to get their children because there is huge lock on the school doors and gate. "I have not been able to attend school because our school door is locked and our teachers were in a workshop for two days and now when we go to school on Monday we are locked out", said one student.
SMN News learnt that the director of Starlight Education, Carmen Hodge is once again in trouble with her landlord and she has not paid her monthly rent since the beginning of 2009-2010 school year.
The source said last school year; Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco came in to rescue the students attending that school when they learnt that the students were locked out due to unpaid rent. However, they paid the monthly rent for remaining of the year at a reduced price since the property owner took off Naf. 2000.00 as her donation to the school. According to information received the monthly rent for the building housing Starlight Education Foundation was rented for Naf. 8000.00 but Hodge it is understood never paid her rent, reasons why the property owner moved to court and Hodge was convicted by the courts to pay the rent, and be evicted.
The businessmen of that company made an agreement with the landlord to pay the rent for the remaining of 2008-2009 school year which ended in July last year but since then the Starlight Education and Foundation has not paid any rent and its arrears of Naf.100,000.00. Currently the foundation owes the property owner over Naf.150,000.00.

SMN News understands that the only monies the property owner received were that which was paid by Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco.
Early last year when the students were locked out of the school it is understood one of the reasons the company who never released their identity assisted is because government has agreed to subsidize the school, but so far the undocumented schools are not being subsidized by the island government. SMN News learnt a research was held and a panel discussion is scheduled for this week.
SMN News further learnt that Starlight Education received monies from AMFO (Dutch Financing Agency) during the month of December, 2009. The source said when Hodge received that money she went to make a rent payment of Naf.19, 000 but the property owner refused the rent since it is not the amount she was expecting. SMN News learnt that the property owner had only given the businessman the discount for the period to which they had agreed to pay the rent. Furthermore, Hodge was supposed to be paying Naf. 8000.00 as stated in her contract beginning this school year.
This media house also learnt that a pastor from Global Mission Church are currently negotiating with the property owner and Starlight Education since the property owner does not want to conduct any business with Hodge any longer neither the Starlight Education Foundation that does not have all the required board members on board.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Wednesday, February 3, at the Sonesta Great Bay Hotel, members of the Island Council and the Executive Council among Sector Directors and the staff of the Island Secretariat attended, Workshop Dualism in Country St. Maarten 10 10 10.

The workshop consisted of an explication of the concept of dualism by VNG experts and later interactive philosophical discussions on the topic.

The program was opened by Cassandra Janssen, Quartermaster for the set up of St. Maarten's Parliament, who welcomed everyone and provided some historical points on the Parliamentary system of the Netherlands Antilles and explained the dual nature of the government, something that we have had for over 70 years. She pointed out that there were members of the Island Council who visit the Netherlands and who got hands on experience about the system.

Dennis Richardson, Project Director at the Department of Constitutional Affairs, was the next speaker who gave a short deliberation on the topics as well. He said that as we approach 10-10-10, every part of government is intensely working towards getting ready for the constitutional changes.

He explained that Dualism is a political and constitutional concept that has the division of powers embedded into the system the separation of powers, also known as trias politica, among the three branches of government, namely the Legislative, Judicial, and Executive.

This will lead to a more open and transparent government. Though in practice, there is the reality of the situation, which he said, is reflected in the electoral process—voters get to choose.

However, he said, there is never one factor, but others, such as the different circumstances, place in history, how the electorate reacts, among other factors.

The workshop was given by the VNG International which executes the program Municipal Cooperation with the Netherlands Antilles based on the resolution of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations since 2006.

The program offers primarily civil servants of the islands of the Netherlands Antilles the opportunity to gain experience working within municipalities in the Netherlands as well the ability to use experts from Dutch municipalities to work in addressing specific questions and problems facing the islands.

The organization provides organizational support to the Island Territories in preparation for the new status within the Kingdom.

Other objectives are to strengthen the local administration by means of skill enhancement of the civil servants and administrators; cooperation in building relationship between the Dutch municipalities and the islands; sharing of knowledge and experiences among the islands and municipalities.

The VNG International has also visited the BES islands and has had similar workshops on Curacao.

Philipsburg: ---- The Win Win Agreement signed by former Minister of Justice David Dick and the management team of the police force KPSSS has failed said members of the unions attending a transitional meeting on St. Maarten. Vice President of NABP Philbert Llewellyn said they have great concerns regarding the implementation of several projects that has been agreed upon in the Win Win Agreement. A meeting was scheduled to be held on Friday where the concerns of the unions and its members will be discussed.

Llewellyn said the agreement the unions was with former Minister of Justice David Dick and former chief prosecutor Taco Stein. He said since the persons who signed and the agreement they are having problem with the implementation on what was agreed upon. Llewellyn and Ronald Ignacio said even the reports they were expecting to get from Police coach Ronald Dongor has not been forthcoming.

Ignacio said the KPSSS did not get the added value by bringing in someone from the outside who was suppose to have more experience than the local guys. The unions said when they agreed with the former Minister of Justice to bring in the coach it was for him to assist in building up the KPSSS. The union members said the they felt the monies that was given by Holland to enhance the police force was used for other purposes such as travelling expenses and compensations to those in management.

Ignacio said currently the officers in the police force no longer have confidence since the agreement was not upheld. He said the union is not amused with the way in which the Minister and the management team executed the Win Win Agreement.
The unionist said they lost lots of time and monies when they were negotiating the agreement. Ignacio said they already threatened and even took actions to get the management team and minister's attention on proper implementation of the agreement.
Ignacio said one of the reasons they worked and signed the Win Win Agreement was because they wanted to protect the entire police force.

Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Panneflek

Ignacio said that even though they worked an agreement that would have protected the entire police force Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek went on his own and asked the former Minister to put him to the disposition of the island government. He said after the coach arrived Panneflek decided to go on another track and it was in consultation with the Minister, so far the unions he said does not have all the details on what really they agreed upon.
However, Ignacio said that Panneflek rights have to be safeguarded and if at any point his rights are trampled upon then the union would take the necessary measures. He said if there are parts of the agreement that can be applied to Panneflek then that too will take place. He said if Panneflek was not treated fairly by the Minister based on the rules and procedures then that too has to be ironed out. Ignacio and Llewellyn said they are scheduled to meet with Panneflek and the management team sometime on Friday.

He said one of the main reasons the union worked so hard on the agreement was to make sure all officers working in KPSSS got equal opportunity and they the available positions would have been reserved for them. Ignacio said they are also currently working on the grievances regarding detective Carlton Philips. Ignacio said that they do not believe that Philips was treated fairly especially regarding the prosecutors office that has refused to work with Philips.
Ignacio said they are currently looking into the interest of the community of St. Maarten and not the prosecutor whose ego was bruised. He said Philips is a police officer who is of value to the entire community of St. Maarten and right now all the valued resources have to be used in order to repress the rising crime rate. Ignacio said right now St. Maarten does not have the time, neither resource to exclude valuable police officers who have proven their skills in the St. Maarten community. Ignacio said after meeting with the police management team on Friday they would take a decision on how they would proceed with the grievances of their officers.
Another burning point on the agenda of the unions is the role of the RST. He said this matter will be discussed with the public prosecutor's office. Ignacio said based on information given to them is that the relationship between the local police force and the RST has deteriorated. He said currently they are currently on the look out because the local officers must be given full opportunity to serve their community.

 

GREAT BAY:– Governor and Local Chief of Police Franklyn Richards has expressed grave concern with regards to the crime situation on the island, and is of the opinion that the crime wave has to end.

The Local Chief of Police also admonishes residents and passer-by's for not alerting the Police to the burning of several stolen vehicles in bushes in Dutch Quarter over the weekend as well as persons verbally threatening Police officers while they were carrying out their investigation in the area.

"The Police are reliant on community assistance in the fight against crime. A person not alerting the Police to two vehicles on fire in the bushes is a derelict of civic duty and responsibility towards society. Evidence was probably destroyed in the fire.

"Threatening Police officers while they carry out their crime scene investigation is also not acceptable behaviour coming from what we assume were law abiding citizens. These actions do not overshadow the contributions that have been made to law enforcement on the island, and I continue to encourage law abiding citizens to help the Police because it's a community effort in fighting crime," Governor Richards observed.

Richards says that he will be looking into additional law enforcement measures that can be implemented as a consequence of the recent increase in crime. These measures would include extended and far-reaching authority to the police and the prosecutor's office.

Some of the measures that could be implemented are the closure of businesses, offices or homes that violate public order; the temporary detention of a person or groups of persons who ignore specific law and order rules; when there is a serious indication of wrongdoing in a certain neighbourhood; police searching vehicles and persons as well as instructing drivers to open enclosed packages.

Governor Richards added that the additional measures should not have the semblance of becoming a police state. "The Police are legally obliged to take all reasonable steps to protect people and property where there is a real and immediate risk to them from the acts of another.

"The most recent event and a point of grave concern is the incident involving shots being fired from a school bus transporting students. Incidents involving the loss of life are to be condemned and cannot be tolerated under any circumstance.

"Several robberies of homes and businesses are also a matter of great concern. An integral approach is needed to combating crime considering the situation is made more complicated because of the island's geographical location and open borders," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Monday.

Governor Richards says combating crime is not only a task for Police and the Justice system, but also for parents, schools, the church, social institutions, the business sector and the average citizen.

"As we prepare to become a country, aspects of security become our collective responsibility. Government is also ultimately called upon to dedicate the necessary attention to fighting crime. An example of this is adequate street lighting which still has to become a reality in some areas," Governor Richards Local Chief of Police pointed out.

At the initiative of the Local Chief of Police, the Safety Plan St. Maarten was developed in 2007. The plans listed a number of recommendations to contribute to a safer community.

One of the recommendations is the development of a qualitatively and quantitatively strong (criminal) justice and law enforcement system and this is one of the key areas of constitutional renewal and a priority for Country St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- Former Democratic Party commissioner of labour, social and youth affairs Louie Laviest is to know his fate on Thursday February 11. Laviest's appeal case was tried on January 28 where he pleaded with the judges to acquit him of all charges.
Laviest also told the panel of three judges of the joint court of appeals that he was willing to do community service should the court find him guilty as charged.
The island council member was charged with forgery, bribery and the hiring of an illegal employee. He was sentenced by the court of fist instance to 18 months imprisonment and has been banned from public office for the next five years.

Philipsburg:--Police have arrested the eldest son of Senator Erno Labega on Thursday as a suspect in a drug trafficking case. The suspect is 27 years old Erno Labega Jr confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. Mos said Labega Jr. was taken off American Airline at 5 pm Thursday as he was on his way to the United States. SMN News learnt that police was in search of Labega Jr. since he was involved in a brawl in Soggy Dollar Bar. Sources say that the suspect that was arrested on Thursday was convicted on numerous occasions in the United States.
On Christmas Day 2008 Police arrested the senator's second son as he was wanted in Holland for a drug trafficking case. That son was extradited to Holland confirmed the Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos.
In an invited comment his father Senator Erno Labega Sr. who is currently in Curacao said he did not have much information on the case as he is in Curacao working. He said he received a phone call informing him of the arrest and he is currently trying to obtain information from his son's lawyers on St. Maarten.

Marigot:--- A Haitian woman and her two children are now homeless after fire engulfed their wooden apartment in Agrement. SMN News learnt that the fire took place on Thursday evening while the woman was at a next door neighbor. On the scene on Friday the entire apartment was destroyed. So far the gendarmes neither the fire services have not released any information pertaining to the fire. The woman and her children could not be found by SMN News yesterday for a comment.

Grand Case: --- Some 43 construction workers took industrial action on Thursday protesting what they said is constant labour abuse. CGTG union member Rudy Hyman in an invited comment said the workers are not being paid on time and they are basically robbed each month.
Hyman said today (Thursday) is 18th day of February and the workers are still not paid for the month of January. He said besides that the construction workers are being penalized when they try to obtain their rightful pay regarding over time and other benefits. Hyman said the person that is managing Kapro Construction is some sort of dictator since he would infringe on the workers basic human rights. The strike is expected to continue on Friday.

Philipsburg: --- The six political parties of the Netherlands Antilles that was elected during the January 22 parliamentary elections managed to form their new government in record time says informateur Pedro Attacho. During the historic signing at the Great Bay Sonesta Resort on Friday the political heads signed off on the Philipsburg Akkoord 2010. Signing the agreement were the leader of the PAR party Emily de Jongh-Elhage , leader of the National Alliance William Marlin, the UPB Mr. Ramoncito Booi, Faroe Metry PNP Curacao, Mr. Julian Woodley Democratic Party of St. Eustatius, and Mr. Rolando Wilson of the WIPEM.
The central government formed on Friday is scheduled to last a period of seven months and is expected to be the last for the Netherlands Antilles. Also signed on Friday is the governing accord which is called the PhilipsburgAkkoord 2010. Attacho said an agreement was also reached on the division of portfolios which consisted of only three and half pages and gives and indication that the main purpose of this new government is to focus on the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles and to support the upcoming new entities of the Kingdom, to care for the well being of the people of the Netherlands Antilles until 10/10/10. Attacho said this new government would also finalize the current affairs. Attacho is expected to present his governing accord and final report to the governor general of the Netherlands Antilles next Sunday instead of March 3. Attacho said after that the governor general would decide on the formateur to form the new cabinet of Ministers.
Attacho said based on the law and the formation of the federal government the PAR the largest party will get five ministries that will be occupied by four ministers. The Prime Minister in the capacity of General and Foreign Affairs, Minister of Finance, Minister of Justice, Minister of Education and Public Health, and Plenipotentiary in the Hague as well as the Chairman of Parliament. The National Alliance from St. Maarten has two ministries which are Ministry of Constitutional and Domestic Affairs and Ministry of Traffic and Communications, the deputy Minister of Plenipotentiary in The Hague, and the vice Prime Minister. The UPB has the Ministry of Economic and Labour Affairs, the State Secretary of Domestic Affairs and the second vice Prime Minister. The Democratic Party of Eustatius has the State Secretary of Justice, while the PNP would also hold the State Secretary of Justice, and the vice chairman of Parliament, while the WIPEM party has the State Secretary of Constitutional Affairs.
After the signing Emily d Jhong Elhage felt the decision taken to sign the agreement on St. Maarten was a good one, she said four years ago those that signed the agreement on Friday have worked together for the past five years. D Jhong Elhage said while there were several discussions during that period there was never a crisis in the Antilles. She felt the agreement will last for the couple of months but felt that whatever happens when the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled it will meet what the people have asked for. D Jhong Elhage said her hope is that the six islands would stay together as friends since their families and friends living on these islands.
The Prime Minister also promised that the PAR will finish what they started with the dismantling process also they would make sure the islands get what is best for the people on each of the islands.
National Alliance Leader William Marlin in his statement said the signing on Thursday is indeed a historic moment for the National Alliance since they managed to capture all three seats through the voters on St. Maarten. He said during the discussions for the formation of the new government focus was on achieving the best for St. Maarten. He said the best for the National Alliance is to make sure the agreements made thus far will be realized and that St. Maarten will get the necessary support to become country on the scheduled date 10/10/10. Marlin said part of the agreement that was signed clearly stipulates that the Central Government will give the agreed support that was signed on June 23 2009.
This agreement he said is where the Central Government has agreed to give the necessary support to St. Maarten so that it can build the necessary infrastructure to take over country St. Maarten by 10/10/10.
Marlin said this is not the first time the people have heard that this is the last Government of the Netherlands Antilles but while in the past they have had target dates, this is the first time they have a signed agreement with the other island with a date attached when St. Maarten and Curacao would become countries and the other islands BES islands. He said has no doubt that it would be realized. He said already a law was passed where the task and the responsibilities can be passed on to Curacao and St. Maarten respectively and the Dutch government for Bonaire Saba and Statia. He said currently they are awaiting the law which would permit the islands to have their elections earlier and for St. Maarten to expand its island council to 15 members and the executive council seven members all of which are important aspects leading up to St. Maarten becoming country later this year. Marlin said the discussions that took place these past days can be considered a walk in the park since the governing accord is three and half pages compared to those in the past. St. Maarten leader of government said that alone goes to show that those elected are focused on the dismantling process and building the new countries.
The UPB of Bonaire said his island has issues that they would have to address which they are committed to doing. Mr. Booi said they felt getting closer under the Netherlands would be more beneficial to their island and they are committed in working together to accomplish the goals of the people. The UPB leader said he has left a space open for the Democratic Party of Bonaire to join if they so wish. Booi said he went as far as offering the position of State Secretary to the DP of Bonaire without even consulting with his own party. Booi said for him it is more important for him to finalize the work he is currently working on rather than to play local politics.

The DP of Eustatius also felt the discussions to form this government went well compared to the others that had wars, he said this alone gives them the indication that the dismantling process would go quickly and smooth. One of the objectives of the Democratic Party is to further meet with St. Maarten and Curacao to discuss matters that concern them since the two islands have much more than the three smaller islands. One of the concerns to be discussed the free movement of people from all of the islands that would be going their separate ways come October 10, 2010.

Also witnessing the historic signing was Will Johnson from Saba as leader of the WIPEM made his statement Mr. Wilson said when men and mountains a lot can be accomplished. He said the slogan used for the January 22 election campaign was "no turning back" and with the signing of the accord shows that there would be turning back regarding the dismantling. Wilson felt that Saba will be able to counter all problems they face during the coming months. He also requested from the people of the Netherlands Antilles to pray since the decisions that has to be taken will not be easy ones.

Distinguished Toastmaster Rolando Tobias was recently appointed as Area 7 Governor by District 81. As Governor of Area 7, Tobias now bears responsibility for clubs operating in St. Thomas, St Croix, Tortola, Virgin Gorda & Puerto Rico. He was appointed to the post following challenges that made it impossible for the previous Area Governor to continue in the position.

The main responsibilities charged to DTM Tobias are the guiding and supporting of the Clubs thru trainings. He is also required to identify and help develop prospective leaders to take up the Area Council duties as of July 1st 2010.

For the past two weekends, Tobias has spent time on St Croix and Tortola respectively. During these visits, he has conducted trainings for the Club officers with the aim of having them better understand their roles and responsibilities. Workshops on the importance of a proper Mentorship program and effective evaluations were well received by the Clubs. The Leadership and members of the Virgin Gorda Pioneers Club also attended the trainings in Tortola this past Saturday. Good use was made of the first visit to also assess challenges within the clubs and to discuss ways in which to tackle these.

DTM Tobias, who successfully took Area 6 (the four Clubs on St Maarten) to Select Distinguished Status last year was appointed based on his leadership skills and his experience as a Toastmaster for the past 15 years. As part of his duties, he will be required to travel monthly to the islands to guide, support and develop members and leaders in Area 7. Tobias stated that it is a privilege for him to have been appointed and that he looks forward to achieving great things along with the Clubs in Area 7.

Great Bay:--- Shemar Abdul Hamid, 11 years of age, of the Rev. John A. Campus, Methodist Agogic Center, (MAC), has been selected as the second place winner in the junior division (ages 12 and under) at the 2010 FCCA Foundation Children's Environmental Poster Competition which was held recently.
Announcing the results, George Orellana of the FCCA disclosed that 15 nations participated in this year's poster contest.
"As you can imagine, it was very difficult for the Member Lines (of the FCCA –ed.) to choose the overall winner in each age category," the FCCA official said.
"All the posters we received exemplified Caribbean excellence and expressed useful depictions of ways in which to preserve the environment," Orellana said, adding that Shemar's
"Excellent poster ...truly exemplifies Caribbean excellence and creativity."
As the winner in his age category, Shemar will receive a cash scholarship of US$1,500 while his school would be awarded the same amount in lieu of art supplies.
Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson, was among the very first to congratulate Shemar and his school. "You have done us proud, and I'd like to encourage you to continue to reach for excellence in everything that you do," the commissioner said.
According to Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism, for Shemar to come second out of 15 participants from around the region who were chosen as the best in their respective countries is indeed a very good achievement.
"As organizers of the local competition, we are very pleased to congratulate Shemar, his art teachers, his school and his parents for a job well done," LaBega stated.
Noting that "the competition seeks to promote and stimulate environmental awareness among Caribbean students, while effectively educating our younger generation on the importance of environmental protection," LaBega expressed the hope that Shemar's win would further serve as an encouragement to other students to strive for excellence.
Shemar himself was elated at the news. "I feel very happy that I came second in the entire Caribbean," he said of his achievement.
"All the hard work that went into the contest has finally paid off," he said while thanking all his teachers and parents who assisted him.
What will he do with his cash prize?
"I would like to save some of it," he replied. He also added that he has a passion for drumming and would therefore use part of the money to buy himself a drum set, and since he loves drawing, another part of the prize would go to buying art supplies.
In congratulating Shemar, Vice-Principal of the Rev. John A. Campus of the Methodist Agogic Center, (MAC), Mr. Richard White said the school "feels honored to have him as a student who can perform at that level and bring joy to our hearts."

The winning entry for the junior category came from Nevis, while Jamaica won in the senior category (13-16 years old).
The posters depicted three ways in which the student's destination can make a difference in preserving the environment.

Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of Education William Marlin and USONA Director Reginald Doran signed off on two contracts on Wednesday. One of contracts is for the new secondary school, which is to be built in Cay Hill. USONA is providing 5.6 million guilders for the construction of the school while the island government of St. Maarten has to provide the other 5 million guilders to fulfill the entire construction cost. On display were some drawings, which depict the SBO School, which is to be built later. Marlin said 4 million guilders are for the construction of the school while 1.6 is for the preparation of the teachers that would be teaching at that school when it is completed. Marlin said while the agreement was signed off on Wednesday the four million will be released when St. Maarten has air marked the remaining funds. Marlin said it is important for government to identify and air mark the monies because unless that is done the Dutch Government will not release the four million guilders.
Marlin and Doran also signed off a 2.6 million guilders contract, which is, go towards the training of teachers and to buy materials for the PSVE schools on St. Maarten. Marlin said the monies will not be used to build new classrooms but instead some of it will be used to also improve some of the structures that are already in place. The duration of this project is to last two years and is intended to raise the level of education in the PSVE stream.

SABA—Mr. and Mrs. Cornell Johnson of The Bottom repeated their win in the Saba Christmas Lighting Competition. A new entry, Stanford Johnson of Zion's Hill, made an impressive display and won Second Place as well as Best Newcomer to the competition. Winning Third Place was Mrs. Jerry Hassell of Zion's Hill. Mrs. Hassell also received the most votes in the online and newspaper poll and walked away with the Most Popular Prize as well.

Philipsburg – TelEm Group is putting the final touches to its preparations to host this year's Capacity Caribbean 2010 Telecommunications Conference at the Westin Resort & Spa.

This is the second year in a row that up to 200 top Telecommunication Executives will be coming to St. Maarten to exchange ideas and information about the telecommunications industry. It's also the second year in a row that TelEm Group, through it's international carrier, Smitcoms, will be the main sponsor of the event.

Capacity Caribbean 2010 brings together wholesale voice and data providers to talk about the latest developments in the telecommunication industry. Last year the event welcomed 170 executives from telecom providers and government agencies representing 20 islands and countries.

This year's event kicks off on the evening of Monday February 9, at the new venue of Westin Resort & Spa, with a welcome party hosted by TelEm Group.

Business sessions begin first thing Tuesday morning with a keynote panel discussion entitled: "Incumbent vs Alternative operators: Is there real competition in the Caribbean wholesale market?"

The opening keynote panel at the conference will feature Brian Mingo, Chief Commercial Officer, TELEM GROUP, David Shaw, CEO, LIME, Paul De Geus, CEO, UTS, and John Echeverri, Vice President, Americas – International Markets, SPRINT.

Final sessions will be held on Wednesday afternoon when participants will have a final opportunity to network before taking some time off to enjoy some of the sights and attractions of what has become a favourite destination for Capacity Conference members.

"The main purpose of Capacity Caribbean 2010 is to bring the Caribbean and international carrier community together at an executive level to learn about the latest market developments, hear from the leading industry experts and at the same time conduct business," said CCO, Brian Mingo, who is one of the opening panellists.

"There is a lot to discuss this year and we are pleased that St. Maarten and the TelEm Group will be playing an important part in fostering these discussions as host and as delegates," said Mr. Mingo.

He said since the Conference is being hosted locally, TelEm Group and other locally-based telecommunications companies will have an opportunity to have their personnel attend an event that would otherwise be held in another destination overseas.

" We decided to return to St Maarten because it is a good flight hub for other Caribbean islands and for international attendees who are flying into the Caribbean for the conference and we are delighted that Telem Group will be our host sponsor again in 2010" said Rachel Jones, Managing Director at Capacity Media, the group organizing Capacity Caribbean 2010. She said the event last year attracted the highest number of attendees since the event was launched in 2007 and there are signs there will also be high attendance also this year.

"We are really looking forward to returning to St Maarten and I know the attendees are too" said Claire Porter, Head of Conference Sales from Capacity Media.

This year's event will feature executive level speakers from COLUMBUS NETWORKS, GLOBAL CARIBBEAN NETWORK, SCARLET, TELEBARBADOS, ATLANTIC TELE-NETWORK, ISLANDNET, TELEBERMUDA INTERNATIONAL, THREE SIXTY COMMUNICATIONS, TRITON, CARIBBEAN CABLE COMMUNICATIONS, WINDWARD
TELECOM, TATT, ECTEL, BERMUDA CABLEVISION.

Philipsburg: --- Members of the committee working on the discussions of the transfer of civil servants when the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled told members of the media that they are progressing well as they continue to discuss the transfer based on a federal legislation on Collective Bargaining. Minister of Home and Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan said the central government has to reach an agreement has to reach with the unions representing the civil servants. Duncan said they discussed during the meetings held at the Great Bay Hotel was the Social Charter. Also discussed is the transfer of civil servants to the BES islands. Minister Duncan said the meetings were fruitful and the other follow up meeting is scheduled for March 11th.
Chairman of the Dr. Marcha said one of their tasks are to make sure the rights of the civil servants are safeguarded but they have to make sure the future entities are functional. Marcha said these meetings are one more step in creating future countries St. Maarten, Curacao and the BES islands. Marcha said he felt they are on schedule in realizing the wishes of the people of the Netherlands Antilles. Marcha said he is impressed with the dedication and seriousness shown by the participants when discussing the matters of concern. He said the next meeting it is expected that they would deal with all outstanding matters that are pending. Marcha said the issues they are discussing are complex since its dealing with people's rights and their interest. He said they are dealing with transfers from one country to another they have to make sure that no one gets hurt or lost benefits. He said the meetings are a joint effort which projects the hallmark of democracy.
President of the Windward Islands Civil Servants William Reed said the meetings are much more complex and difficult than predicted. Reed said when they embarked on the new status they did not envision the difficulties they are encountering along the way. Reed said only now things are starting to shape up, he said they are moving along slowly but as unions they are cautious and careful because if there is one oversight can be detrimental to the civil servants.
Reed said at times they do not worry about the date 10/10/10 instead they focus is the make sure the rights of the civil servants are protected.

Philipsburg: ---The detective department is currently investigating a shooting incident which took place early Monday morning in Madame Estate. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police patrol responded to Paradise Island road in Madame Estate around 12:05 am after residents in the area heard a number of gunshots fired. Henson said on the scene eyewitnesses told them they heard the shots but they did not know who fired them neither could they say exactly from where the shots were fired.

The police spokesman said the police were also directed to Grenada Drive because they received information that the shooting took place there. He said after an intense search no one was found there. Shortly after police were called to the St. Maarten Medical Center where they encountered a man identified as F.A who told police that some unknown persons fired at least three shots at him as he was leaving his house on Grenada Drive. The victim told police that one of the bullets penetrated his car and hit in his left leg. He said that he does not know who fired the shots and why he became a victim of the shooting.

During the investigation the Forensic department located three bullet holes in the body of the vehicle. The car has been confiscated for further investigation. This case is under investigation by the Detective and Forensic Department.

GREAT BAY– Governor and Local Chief of Police Franklyn Richards says that a number of initiatives are currently underway to improve the Police Force and reflect on the core work of fighting and preventing crime.

A phased plan is being worked on to increase the number of positions within the Police Force from 205 to 384.

There are also ongoing consultations with Dutch Police experts to transform the law enforcement body into a more professional institution for country St. Maarten. Within short five police experts will be made available to strengthen the force.

Local Chief of Police Governor Franklyn Richards says that policing should be driven by core values and guiding principles which would be more effective than one guided solely by rules and regulations.

"Our Police Force has to continue to employ a diverse and effective set of crime fighting strategies to accomplish the mission of keeping our communities safe. Innovative policing has resulted in the apprehension of murderous criminals during the past months.

"With the various strategies already being implemented, additional support and resources can only further enhance the war on crime," Governor Richards pointed out.

The Police are expected to play a more meaningful role in neighbourhoods. The upgrading of skills of the motor brigade is being explored to enhance visibility and to be able to respond and access areas quickly during an emergency – quick response teams.

Various educational projects have been established for supervisory and top management positions within the force. Specialization in areas of criminal investigation and forensics are part of those training programs.

The Police Biker Patrol Team established in August 2009, has been able to make a valuable contribution to public order and safety for residents and visitors.

The new Police Holding Cell Complex is expected to be completed in April and the expectation is that the detention centre for undocumented persons will be ready by the end of 2010. This facility will be able to accommodate 40 male and 20 female detainees.

In order to improve intelligence gathering, an information post was established in September 2009. The pool of police vehicles have been considerably improved with a second batch of new vehicles expected some time this year.

The new pool will comprise of eight transport busses, 12 motorcycles and five cars.

A communication plan is being drafted to improve internal and external information dissemination.

"The Police Force finds itself at a crucial juncture. I express deep appreciation to the personnel and management of the Police Force who notwithstanding the challenging times and the lack of resources, have upheld the basic tenets to protect and serve their community.

"At this time I would like to recognize the contributions being made by, among others, community councils, the Crime Task Force and concerned citizens offering tangible solutions to deal with the crime situation on the island.

"The business sector has to continue to be pro-active by taking preventive measures. Fighting crime is, after all, a community effort, and everybody has a role to play," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Tuesday.

GREAT BAY– The Preventive Health Department Section Youth Health Care (YHC) is encouraging parents to come to the office on Monday and Tuesday February 15 and 16 during the mid-term school break to check if their child is up to date with their vaccinations. All children have to be properly immunized.

All parents/guardians should take some time and visit YHC especially parents who have not received a notice from their school to have their child vaccinated.

YHC has an on-going campaign to promote a culture of prevention against vaccine-preventable diseases and the mid-term school break gives parents an opportunity to bring in their children for vaccinations and updates.

Persons can visit the offices of Youth Health Care in the Vineyard Building from 8.30am to 4.30pm.

YHC's aim is to promote general information on the vaccination program to the reasons why we vaccinate and stimulate the participation of parents in the vaccination program. The ultimate aim is to increase the vaccination coverage by getting more children on board as an act of love. In addition parents can also use the opportunity to address their concerns on the change of the vaccination schedule that was approved and implemented in 2009.

All children between four and nine-years of age will now get their second Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine at four years of age.

The DTPolio vaccination will continue to be given when the child is nine-years of age.

Other changes in the vaccinations schedule concern children between two and 12 months of age.

Parents are reminded to make sure that their children between the ages of 0-17 are up to date with their vaccinations which are necessary in order to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.

DTP, MMR and catch-up Hepatitis B vaccines will be given to children who may need any of those vaccines.

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

Vaccinations have proven to prevent outbreaks and the spread of contagious diseases and as such every parent is urged to ensure that their child's vaccination is up to date.

The Island Government has its own vaccination program which is provided free of charge for all children on Dutch St. Maarten. A combination vaccine of MMR as well as other vaccines is offered.

Vaccinations are given starting with the first one when the child is two months of age and finalized at age nine when the last series are given unless for whatever reason a child needs to catch up on his/her immunizations.

Vaccines have been proven to be the key factor in preventing childhood diseases, disability and death.

Parents should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the status of your child, you should contact either your general practitioner, your paediatrician, YHC or the White & Yellow Cross Baby Clinic for children up to four years of age. Parents who are unable to make it can send another 18+ adult with their child along with the signed consent form.

Philipsburg:--The show organized by Andrew Dick on Friday night February 13th 2010 was not properly organized said police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said from the inception police were having problems with Dick since the lighting was not very good. Henson said police almost stopped the show because of the poor lightening but Dick managed to fix the problem so the promoter was able to start his show. However, during the show the misconduct, vulgarity and misbehavior by the patrons caused police to stop the show a bit early. Andrew Dick had a permit from 18.00 p.m. to 01.00 .am. After warning Mr. Dick several times of the bad image his show had and also the misconduct of the those present, shortly after some of them present started pushing and fighting on the dance floor.
Henson said it was clear to the officers that they could not allow such misconduct to take place and they immediately stopped the show. Henson said when the show was stopped Andrew Dick expressed his displeasure about the actions police took. The police spokesman who is currently off island on family business said he received a video the very next day displaying all that Mr. Dick was warned about during the show.
The police spokesman said police also found some weapons that were hidden and to be used after the show. He said police also recovered some other weapons that were hidden in the vicinity of the University all of which were confiscated. Henson further explained that police received information that persons who attended the Andrew Dick show were planning to fight after the show.

Philipsburg:---The number ten candidate of the Democratic Party Jeffry Richardson has submitted his letter of resignation to the Democratic Party after serving for eight years. In a press release Richardson said he was a candidate in the 2007 and 2010 elections for the Island Council and the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles respectively and was also a member of the Board in the past.
In ones life there comes a point when one must take decisions in order for one to move forward and make room for being able to work in an atmosphere where you can better serve your people. One needs to feel a sort of comfort to decide to continue working with persons that you feel does not have your best interest which is the case in this instance.
As a politician he said he believes that it is fair and ethical to inform the public that he has tendered his resignation from the Democratic Party in a letter that was submitted to the leader of the party. Running for public office is a public issue and all major decisions that a politician takes should be transparent by informing the population of those decisions.
After giving this situation a careful thought this decision was taken and he hopes that it will be understood by all his supporters. There's an old saying that goes: "Who in the kitchen feels the heat".

Richardson said he has worked also as a support staff of two different Commissioners of the Democratic Party which he enjoyed and it was an honor to do so because he had the opportunity to serve the people of St. Maarten by assisting those Commissioners with their daily tasks. Having done that, Richardson said he was able to experience the way Government functions. This experience allowed him to better serve the public with the experience that he gained. Richardson said he also obtained a bachelor degree in Public Administration.

He also thanked the leadership of the party and all the Commissioners that he has assisted in office for the past 14 years for allowing him to serve the people of St. Maarten. Being a part of the Democratic Party was the right thing to do at the time he said. However he believes that it is imperative for him to move on, but he intends to serve the people of St. Maarten from another perspective which he intends to make public in a subsequent press release.

Great Bay:---The earthquake that has claimed some 200,000 lives in Haiti and left that Caribbean nation in ruins has evoked quite some artistic response as the whole world rushes in with an avalanche of humanitarian aid. But few artists have captured on canvas, the depth and spiritual dimension of this incredible tragedy as Mosera has done in "After Shock", an imposing painting that grabs the viewers' attention for its size as much as for its thematic content and treatment.
Like a mural, "After Shock" dominates the walls of Tropisme Gallery in Grand Case, where Mosera is showing some of his latest works alongside a curious set of African masks from the private collection of entrepreneur and connoisseur, J.C. Huet, who came from Paris precisely to participate in this exhibition titled, "Linkage".
The masks, generally from East Africa (although a few originate from West Africa), are displayed almost as ornaments, and remain unobtrusive, although their spirit seems to permeate the paintings, imbuing them with a mysterious and ominous air. It is as if they were placed as iconic reminders of Mosera's artistic roots.
Red is the dominant color in the about a dozen paintings in this exhibition. Perhaps, appropriately so. In this "Red Period", Mosera employs this primary color as a backdrop that allows his main subjects to stand out in sharp relief. It is also used as a symbol of passion, tragedy, and even of a fiery sunset by the Lagoon. For Mosera, red is the color of quiet but tortuous contemplation, as in "Contemplator" or even in "Femme sous Grenadiers". It is the color of inspiration as in "Muse" and to a lesser extent, in "Violin Player". Red is also the color of a peaceful sip of black coffee, as in "Coffee". All these acrylic paintings, however, combine the three primary colors – red, yellow and blue - in varying degrees, to offer a complete and very striking palette that is as attractive as it is defining.
Nowhere is this combination of primary colors more shockingly effective than in "After Shock", Mosera's soulful depiction of the horrors of the earthquake that turned Port-au-Prince into a massive graveyard. Hell could not be more bloody red.
It was Pablo Picasso who once said, "There are painters who transform the sun into a yellow spot, but there are others who with the help of their art and their intelligence transform a yellow spot into the sun."
In "After Shock," Mosera has transformed the grief, the pain and sorrow, the harrowing, nightmarish Armageddon of Haiti's apocalyptic earthquake, into a statement of solidarity and universal empathy just as Picasso himself transformed the ugliness and barbaric carnage of the Spanish Civil War into Guernica, his most celebrated anti-war painting.
Almost every face in "After Shock" is turned skywards, as if asking the heavens "why?" It is a question that the whole world is still pondering as the survivors are caught in that region between life and death where suffering stifles hope, where each breath is an unsure step out of the clutches of the grave into the stench of survival. "Why?" "Why, Lord?" The survivors cry, mouth agape, tears and sweat dried up on their mask-like, awe-stricken faces.
At one end of the canvas, a man seems to be holding his private part with one hand, as if to reassure himself that he has not been castrated, while with the other he clutches a cellular phone to his ear, screaming into it for help or simply informing some distant relative that he's alive?
At the other end, is the figure of Christ nailed to the cross, with the text "Way to El Dorado" floating nearby, while we read the incomplete name of "Texas" with the logo of oil giant, Shell, affixed in the lower left-hand corner of this signboard. This should not be seen as a fortuitous, disjointed reference in view of reports of the alleged involvement of big oil in causing the earthquake. As wild and "off the hook" as such allegations might sound, the magnitude of the tragedy goes beyond human comprehension, thus requiring that our imagination be stretched beyond all known limits.
The main figure in "After Shock" is a tall, sinewy, man, pushing a wheel-barrow as ambulance full of injured, dying and dead victims of the earthquake, the only siren being his anguished wailing and the unrestrained howling of tearful dogs. Interspersed with newspaper clippings in both English and French, apparently to draw us into attempting to decipher the text, the full impact of the painting is however gleaned from a distance. Mosera succeeds in turning Haiti's tragedy into a personal experience for the viewer, as he tries to make sense out of a senseless, helpless, and hopeless descent into a monumental abyss. We are all in this together; we have all become Haitians in what seems to be end-time.
The other paintings in the exhibition are thematically different, each one bearing the unmistakable imprint of Mosera, an artist who is forcing us to see beyond our mundane existence and interpret reality from a more spirit-filled perspective.
The exhibition is open daily from 10:00AM to 1:00PM and from 5:00PM until 9:00PM and continues until February 21, 2010. It is a must see for all lovers of good art.

Great Bay: --- St. Maarten's commissioner in charge of economic affairs, is clarifying an apparent mix-up which was at the core of an article published in the Today Newspaper of Wednesday, February 17. The article in question mentioned that data on the government website, investsxm.com, is heavily outdated and how island council lady Maria Buncamper-Molanus stresses the importance of economic indicators.

According to the commissioner, however, the article is not only inaccurate but also incomplete.

The website currently used by the island government is stmaarteneconomy.com and not investinsxm.com. The information on the current website is up to date and all current economic indicators are posted on the site.

The website, stmaarteneconomy.com, was launched on March 20, 2008 and it is rather peculiar that council lady Buncamper-Molanus would be unaware of this, since she, as former commissioner had played an intricate role at the time that the site was being developed.

The site in question was refreshed and given a face lift in 2009 and re-launched on May 14, 2009.

The website investinsxm.com, referred to in the article, has been inactive for sometime.

Commissioner Richardson explained that the department of economic policy and research has been experiencing some of the same problems that the tourism bureau currently has with their old site.
In both cases, the island government did not own the domain name and neither was it controlled by the department in question.

The economic policy and research department has however rectified the situation with the developing of a new website. The island government now owns the domain name and has a higher level of control.
With the launch of the new government website, plan is to deactivate www.stmaarteneconomy.com, to avoid confusion.

The page dedicated to the sector Economy and Tourism will have all of the same features currently available on the stmaarteneconomy.com website. These include publications, policies, legislation, comments and job applications.

Until a new integrated government site goes live, the department continues to update and keep the department website current.

The Civil Registry Office is requesting that all persons who have applied to obtain or renew their passport can pass by the office to pick it up. These passports must be picked up within three months from the date of the application. This is in accordance with the Passport Law. Passports not collected after the three-month deadline will be taken out of circulation. The public is also hereby informed that the office does not accept any laminated documents. Laminated documents do not allow the office the opportunity to verify the authenticity of the aforementioned.

For further information, you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.

Philipsburg:---The Island Receivers' Office hereby makes it known to the general public that in view of approaching deadline for paying motor vehicle taxes (February 28th 2010), we announce the dates and times of extended opening hours.
The opening hours are:
Thursday and Friday, February 25th, and 26th, 8am to 6 pm.
Saturday, February 27th 9 am to 2pm.
Monday, March 1st to Friday March 5th, 8 am to 6 pm.
Saturday, March 6th, 9 am to 2 pm.
Monday, March 8th to Friday, March 12th 8am to 6 pm
Saturday, March 13th, 9 am to 2 pm.
Please note that taxpayers who have not paid the 2010 motor vehicle tax by Saturday, March 13th will lose the rights to the current number that they have. As of Monday, March 15th, 2010 these plates will be issued to other motor vehicle tax payers who do not yet have a number plate.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—On February 25, Commissioner William Marlin celebrated Mrs. Martha C. Connor Duzanson's 102nd birthday with family and friends at the White and Yellow Cross St. Maarten's Home in St. John's Estate.

Her daughter-in-law, Ms. Ruth Connor, welcomed everyone and said that we are grateful for being here today to celebrate this privilege. I am also thankful that government, in the name of Commissioner Marlin is here for this special occasion. She welcomed the Pastor to say a few words.

Seven Day Adventist Church Pastor Royston Philbert said a few words and a prayer. He complimented her, saying that the quality of life of Mrs. Connor remains better than others who are 80. It seems to me, he said, that she was doing something that made life profitable up until today. Grateful for years, Mrs. Connor remains alert and focused.

More than ever before, Mrs. Connor is fully conscious and God has brought her this far. In the Caribbean, Pastor Philbert said, after checking around, that Mrs. Connor is the only 102 year old with the Seventh Day Adventist Church Community.

Commissioner Marlin followed with a few words to the small gathering. "Good morning to one and all, especially to the Birthday lady—Mrs.Connor. Every time I get the opportunity to celebrate her birthday or to be part of the celebration in some way, I feel honored.

"When I see you, I am reminded that it is more than possible to live long years. You are setting a trend, the commissioner told Mrs. Connor.

"I want to say, on behalf of the Government, I would like to extend a blessed happy birthday to you. We wish you God's blessings and may He continue to bless you and your family with long life and happiness.

"We often pray for our parents and grandparents to be with us, and we hope they are able to enjoy the quality of life.

After Commissioner's Marlin short speech, he presented Mrs. Connor with a new wheel chair that folds.

"Now you are more mobile," Commissioner Marlin said, after demonstrating folding the wheel chair and carrying it by the handles. "Now you can take your wheels with you. I hope it will bring some joy and comfort. May God continue to bless you."

Mrs. Connor thanked her family members and others for the special morning, their kind gestures, and Commissioner Marlin for coming and spending time with her and the family and for donating the wheel chair.

After the short addresses, a short video were shown of an interview Mrs. Connor had with the Government Information Service, in which she talked about her life, growing up in St. Maarten, and her message to the youths of St. Maarten.

MARIGOT—The gendarmes have detained a man for attempted theft on Tuesday. The man attempted to rob someone in the Marigot area under the threat of a knife the gendarmes reported. After an investigation it was determined that, the suspect is also responsible for three other armed robberies all of which occurred in the Marigot area.
The gendarmes also managed to arrest an illegal resident in the Sandy Ground area during an immigration control. The man was also in possession of illegal substance when he was arrested. He will be prosecuted for drug possession and is scheduled to be deported to his native country.

Philipsburg:---In the midst of having to deal with the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles which includes division of assets and liabilities, currency issues, the central Bank, consensus Kingdom Laws, Committee for Financial Supervision our Justice system the Police Force, in short putting our infrastructure in place to take over the tasks now provided for by the Central Government we as citizens of the Kingdom of the Netherlands have to fight for our rights, equal rights within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. At a time when we need the most cooperation from all partners especially big sister, we are told no voting rights by almost all the members of the First and Second Chamber. But we are told about equality in the Kingdom and that we have to accept gay marriages, euthanasia and who knows what else. We were told to get our immigration problem under control so we instituted the "Brook Towers Accord" and big sister (the Netherlands) said that non nationals will have easy access to the Netherlands and also the Dutch nationality. Then we have the law that is still being proposed to send Netherlands Antilles problem youths back to the Netherlands Antilles while at the same time giving more rights to European Dutch to reside in the Dutch Caribbean islands. And today as far as I know without any discussions with the representatives of the Netherlands Antilles the vast majority in the Second Chamber approved the legislation proposal to amend the Kingdom Law Dutch Nationality. How much effect can a few English speaking persons from the Netherlands Antilles have on a population of 16 million? I mention English because that was the previous requirement for the islands of St. Maarten St. Eustatius and Saba while on Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire it was Papiamentu. While I have continued to insist that remaining within the Kingdom of the Netherlands brings with it the need to be able to speak, write and understand the Dutch language why weren't we given an opportunity to at least take part in those discussions. But of course it is a Kingdom Law approved by the First and Second Chambers which are the highest legislative bodies in the Kingdom. The Democratic Deficit continues. Now I am reading where members of the Second Chamber are complaining about the decision of the Executive Council of Bonaire to exclude a group of European Dutch nationals from voting in the March 26, 2010 referendum. I believe the efforts of those two bodies should be on assisting St. Maarten in ensuring that all finance generated on the island, to remain here. These finances are needed to set up our dependencies and have a strong starting position (November 2, 2006 Final Agreement). I have always said that big sister (the Netherlands) has the financial and human resources with which to assist St. Maarten. It is time to put these to work in the interest of the people of St. Maarten. Then I would not have to ask the question, "What rights do we have?"

PHILIPSBURG—St. Maarten's commissioner of tourism, Frans Richardson, is in Brazil this week following up on tourism opportunities for St. Maarten.
The visit comes in the wake of a visit made to the ABAV Tradeshow in Brazil, last year. St. Maarten has been looking at its positioning strategy as it relates to the vital South American market.
"Securing of agreements with South American carriers, using Venezuela as a hub, is one of the areas of interest for St. Maarten, which remains interested in enhancing its efforts to meet objectives as a year-round tourism destination?" said Commissioner Richardson prior to departing to San Paolo.
St. Maarten is taking into consideration that the competition in the region has increased significantly and that St. Maarten should step up its efforts to take advantage of the vibrant Brazilian travel market.
"St. Maarten is keenly interested in showcasing our potential to South American airlines. We believe there are real benefits and opportunities of servicing the island, especially with regards to the close proximity of the destinations," said the commissioner.
Head of the Tourism Bureau, Regina Labega, accompany Commissioner Richardson.

Philipsburg:--- Police have arrested another minor student who it is believed fired shots on Friday from a school bus. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said another arrest was made but said he did not have details of the ongoing investigation.

SMN News learnt that police released at least eight of the nine students that were arrested on Friday including the girl in whose bag the gun was found. Sources say one of the students put the weapon in the child bag as it was under her seat.
Police arrested nine students on Friday after gunshots were fired from the school bus on which they were travelling. One of the gunshots hit the windshield of a passing vehicle but no one was injured.

Airport: --- Officers of the St. Maarten Customs arrested a 41-year old man who was born on Curacao after he disembarked Insel Air at the Princess Juliana International Airport on Tuesday morning.
The suspect has been identified as C.A.B was caught with 540 grams of cocaine strapped to his legs. He was transferred to the Philipsburg Police Station on Tuesday afternoon after being processed by Customs.

Philipsburg: ---Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba on Monday recognized two officers of the Police Force KPSSS. Both officers served 40 years and are still in service. They are Chief Inspector Johan Janchi Leonard and Dafnis Francessca. Leonard has been the police spokesperson for years. He also worked in immigration and other sections of the police department over the past 40 years. While Chief Inspector Dafnis Francisca is now part of the management team of the police force. Francisca also worked at the Criminal Investigation Department before being added to the management team of KPSSS. In a press release police spokesman Ricardo Henson said Minister Jacoba urged the officers to pass on their knowledge to the younger officers now in the force. She also thanked them both for their dedication and service to the police force as well as for the sacrifices they made over the past 40 years. Attending the ceremony which was held at the Philipsburg Police Station was State Secretary for Justice Ernie Simmons, Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran and family members of the two outstanding officers.

Philipsburg: ----The number of people using HIV testing and counseling services has quadrupled in the past five years. However, worldwide, only 12% of people who want to be tested are currently able to do so. In 2003, it was estimated that only 0.2% of adults in low- and middle-income countries received voluntary HIV counseling and testing services. People fail to be tested for HIV for many reasons: lack of access to testing services, fear of stigma and discrimination, fear the test will be positive, and lack of access to treatment. These facts mean thousands of opportunities for increased access to treatment, care, support and prevention have been, and are being, missed. The number of people using HIV testing and counseling services has quadrupled in the past five years. However, worldwide, only 12% of people who want to be tested are currently able to do so. In 2003, it was estimated that only 0.2% of adults in low- and middle-income countries received voluntary HIV counseling and testing services. People fail to be tested for HIV for many reasons: lack of access to testing services, fear of stigma and discrimination, fear the test will be positive, and lack of access to treatment. These facts mean thousands of opportunities for increased access to treatment, care, support and prevention have been, and are being, missed. In light of the need for individuals to have earlier access to treatment, care, support and prevention, UNAIDS and WHO are supporting a major expansion of access to HIV testing and counseling through the scaling up of client-initiated testing and counseling services and through the expansion of provider-initiated testing and counseling services in health care settings. Such efforts are not only necessary to improve the health of individuals, they are also necessary to achieve universal access to prevention, treatment, care and support and to mount effective responses against HIV. UNAIDS does not support mandatory testing of individuals. All testing, whether client or provider-initiated should be conducted under the conditions of the "Three Cs": involve informed consent, be confidential, and include counseling. Recognizing the urgency of connecting HIV positive people to prevention, treatment, care and support, UNAIDS and the World Health Organization released in May 2007 operational guidance on provider-initiated HIV testing and counseling in health facilities. The guidance is in line with the 2004 UNAIDS/WHO Policy Statement on HIV testing and recommends that traditional voluntary testing and counseling be supplemented by provider-initiated testing in all health settings in generalized HIV epidemics, and in selected health facilities (such as tuberculosis, sexual health or antenatal health clinics) in areas with low or concentrated HIV epidemics. Implementation of this guidance must be informed by an understanding of social and epidemiological context in which testing is taking place. Where there are high levels of stigma and discrimination and low capacity to implement testing and counseling under the Three Cs, these issues should be addressed before expansion of access to provider-initiated testing and counseling in health facilities. Though access to anti-retroviral treatment is not a prerequisite, there should be some realistic expectation of such access within the context of the country's plan to achieve universal access by 2010. Furthermore, there should be access to a basic package of prevention, care and support, as the cornerstone of expanded access to HIV testing and counseling to achieve beneficial health outcomes.

Article courtesy PANCAP

PHILIPSBURG—The Department for Education Research Policy and Innovations is reminding and encouraging all parents of the FBE and VSBO schools to attend the "Active Parenting" workshops that are still available at their child's school so that they can become properly informed.

At the beginning of this New Year all schools continue to offer "Active Parenting" workshops for parents.
Several of the FBE schools started in January while other schools will begin their sessions February.

This program that started since school year 2007-08 is organized by DERPI, and financed through USONA with Dutch Development Funds, as part of the innovations in Education.

DERPI is of the opinion that without proper parental participation in education success is not guaranteed for the youth.

Parents attending these sessions in several schools last week had lively discussions and are all of the opinion that all parents can benefit from these sessions and help each other to raise their children.
The adage "It takes a village to raise a child."

These workshops are offered for parents in both English and Spanish language.

Most of the parents have expressed gratitude to DERPI for giving them these opportunities to obtain better or even revisit and strengthen their parenting skills.

DERPI again encourages parents to inquire at their children's respective schools for information about workshops and schedules.

All workshops are offered to parents completely free of charge. Besides the discussions and presentations, the parents will also receive a parent guide (book) free of charge.

The Department for Educational Research, Policy and Education remain committed to the parents and children of Sint Maarten with the "Active Parenting Program" and encourage all parents to fully participate in these sessions.

Philipsburg: ---- Head of island labour Raphael Boasman has sent a letter to leader of government commissioner William Marlin telling him that he wants to be the head of the labour department when St. Maarten gets it country status. Even though the labour portfolio is not under Marlin, Boasman sent the letter directly to the island's leader and bypassed commissioner of labour Hyacinth Richardson. Sources say Boasman did not send his communiqué to the commissioner that is dealing with labour because he is being pressured by the labour commissioner to vacate his seat. Normally when civil servants send letters to the executive council they would carbon copy their letters to the commissioner in charge of their department. Boasman also suggested to the commissioner that he is willing to leave social affairs to the commissioner's office and to become a policy worker.
SMN News has learnt that the "Dear Commish" letter sent by Boasman last week to Marlin was discussed in the executive council and a decision was taken to interview Boasman this week. SMN News learnt that a decision might be taken as early as Thursday this week since Boasman outlined several tasks he is working on regarding the transfer of tasks in the new setting.
It is further understood that the department head is suggesting that that Marlin separate labor from social affairs when the island gets its new status. The source said based on the current drafts the two portfolios must remain under the same Ministry.
Sources say that Richardson's office has been putting pressure on Boasman since he is allegedly not executing his duties at the labour department. According to well placed sources commissioner Richardson is experiencing the same difficulties as Laviest when he was commissioner of labour, and thus Richardson has made it clear to the executive council that the so called dead beat employee must be removed from that department.
According to information reaching SMN News advisor to commissioner, Richardson, has been trying to get Boasman to process files regarding social affairs and labour but the files are being delayed when they reach Boasman's desk. SMN News also learnt that the commissioner's office already indicated that they are ready to take harsh measures against Boasman since they are not able to get their work done.
The executive council already took a decision where they would remove Boasman from his position at the labour department. Already Boasman does not have the power to sign off on working permits but to date the executive council is not making good on the decision they took months ago to remove Boasman.

In an invited comment last week we asked Boasman if he sent in a letter to the executive council and if resigned from his position as head of the labour department. Boasman denied sending any letter to the executive council. Asked if he resigned the department head he did not resign instead he was busy with the transfer of tasks as the island prepares for its country status. "Even though the executive council took several decisions about me they never spoke to me directly, we never had any discussions" Boasman said.
SMN News contacted commissioner Marlin on the new developments surrounding Boasman but the island's leader said he was not aware of any letter. Sources say both Marlin and Richardson are trying to thread cautiously when dealing with Boasman or the labour department since they are not looking for another flare up from the opposition. SMN News was told that the commissioners do not want the media to take anything out of proportion as they did with the new labour policy when it was revoked.

Philipsburg: --- The much talked about SOAB report against ROB (Public Works) is in the hands of the attorney general of the Netherlands Antilles. SMN News learnt that Lt. Governor of the island territory of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards sent the report on to the attorney general hoping that actions would be taken against those implicated in the report.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that the report was sent to the attorney general. Mud also confirmed that his office is busy studying the report.

In the meantime, the National Alliance board held a meeting on Tuesday night to further discuss how they would have the National Alliance majority in the executive council handle the report which has been constantly making headlines on St. Maarten.
According to reliable sources the National Alliance board members feel that their party leader needs to act since the commissioner responsible for ROB is not taking the necessary measures to safeguard government. It is understood that one of the contentions of the National Alliance is that this report may well stand in the way when it comes to St. Maarten getting its status on 10/10/10.

Ever since the final report was delivered the executive council has been trying to get Commissioner Theo Heyliger to act on his report but to date nothing has been done.

GREAT BAY:--- Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson told members of the media that his trip to Brazil can be considered fruitful since GOL Airlines of Brazil will begin a year-round weekly flight to St. Maarten, namely, two flights out of Brazil in the high season and one in the off season, starting on March 27.

Four major Brazilian wholesalers (travel agent firms and tourism-related companies) are now also on board to strengthen promotions and take seats on the rotations to St. Maarten.

The Sonesta Maho Group has committed to the market by offering competitive introductory rates to ensure its success. The commissioner urges the rest of the private sector in realizing the marketing efforts.

"We have to recognize the importance of the South American: South Americans like to dine and shop; they love local cultural activities and night life in general; they are fascinated with the French flair, which benefits St. Martin and St. Barths, Commissioner Richardson said. Given the above, the commissioner will be meeting with his counterparts on the French side as well as St. Barths and Anguilla. "
The commissioner also met with American Airlines - São Paulo, Brazil, Jose Roberto Trinca. AA is offering the following promotional round trip fare: Low Season: 584 U.S. dollars plus tax; High Season: 794 U.S. dollars plus tax.

Commissioner Richardson also met with well-known Brazilian journalist Amaury Junior, a journalist and TV presenter, known for his night program, when he interviews celebrities and covers festivals and events. The plan is to bring the TV show to the island during 6 days and film all the attractions, nightlife, etc.

We also raised awareness of St. Maarten among the trade: wholesalers, tour operators, incentive & Group Planners. There we also launched our brand among the major tour operators, including 40 journalists from major media in tourism.

The group also attended the 16th CVC workshop, held at Expo Center Norte in Sao Paulo. There were 12,000 travel agents (from all Brazil and Latin America, especially Argentina and Chile) and a total of 658 exhibitors from national and international tourism entities were present at the event.

The St. Maarten booth distributed materials (brochures etc.) to more than 5000 travel agents.

The commissioner said that there is no St. Maarten office representing the island in Brazil but we have a representative in Brazil promoting the island. The travel agents and wholesalers are responsible for ensuring capacity on the flights based on the backing and promotion of the new branding destination of St. Maarten, not only in Brazil but also in Argentina and Chile.

Though we are waiting on the promotional budget in the market, we are looking at roughly $1 million dollars. I want the private sector to contribute to these efforts as well.

Along this line, the commissioner said that the establishing of the Tourism Authority is in process; the draft is on his desk, it has to go to the Legal Affairs Department, then it has to go to the Executive Council for approval and after that to the Island Council. So we are getting there.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Tanking Shell's V-Power gasoline is good for your car and that is for certain, but for Noel Lake it's way more than that. Filling up with V-Power gasoline gave him the opportunity to be the best son a mother could wish for.

Last Wednesday Noel won the brand new Suzuki Grand Vitara in the "Shell Power Up 2 Win" promotion which Sol was running across its network of service stations in St. Maarten. The winning voucher was drawn February 10, 2010 under the watchful eye of notary Meredith Boekhoudt. Following the announcement of his winnings, Noel Lake headed to the site of the draw where he subsequently handed over the grand prize to his mother. His mom Keta Lake was ecstatic and remarked "We were very surprised to hear that he won and on driving up to the station for the presentation I said wow you should give it to me; I was joking but he took me seriously. He really did give it to me!" He is showing appreciation. I am so happy! "

Sol ran the "Power Up 2 Win" promotion from October 2009 in St. Maarten and the promotion attracted a lot of expectant customers from go! Motorists who tanked US$ 25 of Shell's V- Power gasoline or diesel at Sol's service stations received a voucher which on completion, they submitted to be eligible for participation in the promotion. Last December one lucky person won a 47 inch full-HD Panasonic flat screen TV and 25 others claimed NAf 100 vouchers for V-Power gasoline which were the interim prizes offered through this promotion.

Sol ran this marketing campaign across 10 of its markets in the region to, add further value to its customers and to reward them for filling up with Shell V-Power gasoline. In his congratulatory speech, David Antrobus Sol's General Manager in St. Maarten applauded Mr. Lake on his win as well as his kind gesture of giving the Grand Vitara to his Mom. Antrobus thanked the motorists of St. Maarten / St. Martin for their support of this promotion and looked forward to their continued support through Sol's network of Shell service stations.

Philipsburg: --- The joint court of appeals has thrown out three of the five charges brought against former commissioner of labour Louie Laveist. Laviest was convicted for accepting airline tickets to travel to Canada from BEMAL enterprises or BEMBO and $10,000 from said company, the court also found proven that Laveist accepted $6,000 from Bargains Unlimited which was paid to Culture Club foundation in exchange for working permits even though he had received a negative advice from the labour department.
The court found that Laveist had approached Bargains Unlimited for sponsorship for his foundation on December 7th and by December 10th the working permits for the company's workers were granted even though there was a negative advice.
The court convicted Laveist to six months suspended sentence with three years probation; he was also banned from public office for the next three years. The only way Laveist would serve his six month sentence is if he committed another crime within the next three years. Laviest also has to pay Naf.5000.00 or spend 55 days behind bars.
The appellate court also indicated in their ruling that the only reason Laviest received such a light sentence is because the investigating officers used illegal measures to obtain evidence against him.
Those illegal measures is the tapping the former commissioner's phone for at least two weeks as well as surveying his house and movement for the same period of time. The court said the investigators (Marachusees) violated the councilman's privacy. Tapping ones phone is a violation of ones rights based on the human rights charter. The court threw out the charges of forgery regarding the forging of the minutes of the Culture Club foundation for the purpose of defrauding AMFO of Naf 22,750. The court also found that the prosecution did not provide sufficient evidence to show that the barber shop in which Samuel Boney was working belonged to Laveist as such the charge of hiring an illegal worker was also thrown out.
In an invited comment Attorney at Law Cor Merx said right now Mr. Laveist should celebrate since three of the five charges were thrown out by the appeal court. Merx said in another week both him and his client would announce if they are going to appeal the verdict since they are still studying the verdict which was handed out late Thursday. The Laveist case is the first major criminal case Merx handled since he was sworn into the bar. It is clear that Merx managed to show the appeal court that the charges brought against Laveist were erroneous.
Should Laviest accept this conviction then he would have to resign from his seat as an Island councilman, which would definitely affect the current government. SMN News learnt that Laviest is already contemplating appealing the verdict even though it is in his favor. Efforts made to contact Laveist for a comment proved futile up to press time.

By Rawle Nelson.
St. Kitts and Nevis's Prime Minister, Dr the Hon Denzil Douglas declared that the People's Action Movement attempt to gain political power through the politicizing of crime failed. PM Douglas was at the time speaking at his first monthly press conference since being reelected for a fourth consecutive term after the January 25th elections. The press conference which was held in the parliamentary lounge of Government headquarters saw the Prime Minister speaking on a number of wide ranging issues while he responded to a number of allegations which were leveled against him in the lead up to the elections.
He pointed out that PAM's attempts failed as the public were cognizant of the numerous and ongoing initiatives that he has been implementing in addressing crime. He pointed out that crime is a regional issue which continued to pose growing challenges and difficulties despite the successes.
"The government did put a strategic plan in place to counter crime and it continues to yield results it is very, very unfortunate that so far there are about 4 or 5 people involved in homicide so far for this year. We may have recovered 5 or 6 illegal weapons so far to date from the roads but this gives you an idea of how dynamic the situation is in our fight against crime, it is yielding results but crime continues," he said.
Commenting on the People's Action Movement, the Prime Minister said that the opposition used it to gain political power. "I believe that the opposition used the situation to politicize crime and to individualize it. I understand that they were billboards around the country purported to address me, the Prime Minister with regards to being responsible for crime in St Kitts and Nevis, I didn't know that I was that good," he said.
The St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister declared that his party being reelected for what he termed as a historic fourth term is a demonstration of the public's willingness to support his Labour administration. He however admitted that the issue of crime continues to be a top priority of his administration stating that he is aware and cognizant of the numerous challenges and difficulties that the police are confronted with.
"The People's Action Movement that tried desperately to politicized crime failed and was rejected is a clear indication that the people of St Kitts and Nevis clearly understand and would wish to support the policies and the programmes that have been enunciated that are being implemented in pursuit by the labour government of the former administration and of now," he said.
He admitted that he is not satisfied with the progress that is being made noting that things are moving too slowly stressing that while the plan has been effective thus far he wants things to improve much faster. He pointed out that a number of improvements and developments have been made with regards to a number of police stations and facilities declaring that there is an immediate urgent need for significant improvements of the Police Barracks at the force's headquarters. "There is an urgent need to improve the conditions that the police live under at the barracks and we will be working to aggressively address those conditions among others," he noted.
He declared that despite his administration being faced with challenging financial conditions the issue of ensuring that the federation's police are provided and enhanced with the required facilities so as to improve the federation's crime fighting efforts are pertinent if his administration will succeed in fighting crime. " I am aware that the police are faced with a number of bad conditions but we will address those almost immediately as despite our financial situation we recognize that these conditions has to be improved if we are going to effectively address crime," he said.
Identifying some of the initiatives that his administration have been engaged in so as to tackle the issue of crime, Dr Douglas said that the recent implementation of closed circuit television is geared at seriously tackling crime. "We have already placed such at the Basseterre police headquarters; we have also identified other areas in Basseterre where such have been instituted. I have been told that they been very good reviews for the police in terms of their crime fighting capacities and we are now pursuing this whole initiative also on the island of Nevis," he said. The Prime Minister commended the various stakeholders who he said have been engaged in this activity noting that he would also want to commend only the service providers but also to the benefactors and those who he said also collaborated.
Prime Minister Douglas thanked LIME noting that their contributions was a commitment that they had made noting that the company fulfilled its promise. He also singled out the Ambassador of the Republic of China on Taiwan; His Excellency RC Wu who he said also played a significant role in the establishment of some of these initiatives. "...his embassy came forward and has served in this capacity very well in ensuring that adequate support is being provided to our police and the security forces generally in the fight against crime," he said.
He declared that the issue of fighting crime should be fought by all. "We continue to emphasize that fighting crime is every body business and the government's intention is to involve every individual, every group, community, section or other wise to make a contributions".

 

CAY BAY—An oil spill occurred Thursday morning at the GEBE power plant. The effects on the environment were reduced due to quick action from the GEBE employees and recuperation efforts that continued through the day to remove as much oil as possible from the sea.
Normally the GEBE Waste Oil Treatment System (WTS) skims off any waste oil from the production process before it can reach the environment. The waste oil is collected and then added into the fuel used to run the diesel engines used to generate electricity thereby eliminating any waste oil. However, on Thursday morning, the GEBE Waste Treatment System (WTS) overloaded causing the waste oil to overflow into the sea.
A power plant shift supervisor discovered the oil leak approximately 6:30 a.m. Thursday morning and immediately shut down the Waste Treatment System. The contents of the WTS oil traps were then temporarily pumped into a holding reservoir until the WTS was operational again. A small boat was launched with a crew using special oil absorbent pads to soak up the oil.
The power plant management team explained the measures that were being taken to reduce the impact on the environment to representatives of VROM, the Coast Guard, the Harbor Master, the Fire Department and environmental organizations. The team also gave a tour of the current Waste Treatment System and gave an update of the GEBE Oil Containment Boom project.
GEBE has started construction of an oil boom some time ago. Marine engineering works already executed were severely damaged due to unfavorable wave action and surf in Cay Bay. The oil boom would be connected to two walls extending into the sea and would contain the oil. Then a skimmer would be used to recover any oil.

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten community is growing weary and many of the residents and visitors are beginning to fear for their lives. Men and women today sometimes long to go home simply because they do not know if their homes are in tact after a long day's work.
Speaking to some families they said that workers on St. Maarten can no longer give their all to their employers simply because they either have to think about their safety on the job, their homes and even their children who are at school. One mother who spoke to us on the condition of anonymity said while she needs to work to feed and finance her children's education she could never be the employee she was 25 years ago. "Back then I could have left my doors open, my car unlocked and I never had to worry when my children left for school.

While at work I know that it was about working and then going home to my family. But today I have to prepare myself for gunmen while at work, I have to wonder about my home while I am working and most off all I now have to worry if my 12 year old grandchild would make it back home safely from school." The woman said she is not the only person working in stores and other established businesses on the island that is working and living in fear. She went on to say that the only thing the police concentrate on is the illegal workers and not the illegal criminals who are loitering and stealing from innocent people.

Another thing is that while illegal's or foreigners are being blamed for most of the crimes committed on St. Maarten, locals she said need to take stock since their children are mostly involved in criminal activities. "We need to stop the I from here theory and realize we are not helping our children this way. I agree there needs to be control and immigration control is necessary but the men in blue needs to pool their resources and do better if they are to fight crime."

Over the past two years the police have become criminals themselves, corruption within the police force is written on the wall. It is well documented in the WODC, Suzy Camilla Romer, the Fred Weil reports all of which is at the liberty of the police management and the minister of justice.

In these reports anyone interested in improving the police force on St. Maarten can do so if they only take the time to study these reports and fix that which is wrong. It has been years now the police force on St. Maarten have been screaming that they are understaffed and more so have limited training. Despite the challenges though, those in the force that mean well are doing their utmost best to solve crimes and to protect the people they swore to protect.

Several well established business men and women are on the verge of leaving the friendly island due to the increased crime rate. Many of them said while they are burdened with taxes, and are confronted with boastful politicians whose political campaigns they must finance, safety and security is placed on the back burners. One businessman said during elections the politicians would make so much promises but the minute they get in office they forget what they promised. He said if the politicians use their influence in parliament and within the governing structure they are bound to improve the current police force.

The businessman said that families need to restore their values and forget about the material things they placed before their children. "As an employer and father I always consider the mothers that work for me, I know they have to spend time with their children." The businessman said he has been operating on St. Maarten for the past 40 years and he is now thinking of leaving. He said in the past the youths used to show respect for adults, their teachers and parents would do their share at home, but today there is a lost generation, children are making children.

St. Maarten has recorded a host of murders many of which are still unsolved, each year cases are placed in the cold files and families of these victims still cannot find peace knowing the killers of their love ones are roaming freely.

The police and RST are currently investigating the murders of Haresh Dayalani, David Eustace from Casa Blanca, Saliba Absalon(Haitian) Eric Yuan Sam (Afoo), Hensley from Lake Guess House shooting in 2007 and the murder of Basilio Bruno also known as Eddy of the Back Street barber shop, his alleged killer is now pending extradition in Canada.

Detectives Removed from Murder Investigations.

While there is an urgent need for the police to solve these murder cases because the number is rising by the day and people fear for their lives, a trend that is definitely dampening the economy during a global crisis. The management team are busy removing seasoned detectives from these investigations.

Over the past months at least two detectives were removed from one of the unsolved murder investigation. They are detective Carlton Phillips and detective Norwin Villarreal. The remaining investigating officers arrested two suspects for the same murder investigation but eight days later the suspects was released for the lack of evidence. SMN News learnt that detective Villarreal is currently under investigation. But so far no one wants to say exactly why the detective was removed and what he is being accused of. SMN News contacted acting chief commissioner of police Dafnis Francessca for a comment on this case and he said right now there is an internal investigation ongoing against Villarreal. Francessca said the detective knows why he was removed and he also knows that his removal from the detective department is temporary pending the investigation. "I just cannot say anything right now about Villarreal case, I have to wait on the outcome of the investigation" Francessca said. As for Phillips, Francessca said he will not even address the case. "I don't even want to talk about Phillips" Francessca declared.

SMN News also contacted Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for a comment on the ongoing investigation regarding Villarreal and was told that the person to answer our question is Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran. Unfortunately he is never reachable by phone. Mos said his office was not involved in the removal of Villarreal and his office would not comment on the Phillips saga.
Detective Carlton Phillips late last year said members of the management team of the police force are enriching themselves while they were busy victimizing innocent and hardworking officers. Phillips also called on the police management and the prosecutor's office to launch an investigation to clear his name since he was accused of destroying evidence while heading the CID department. After Philips spoke out an internal investigation was conducted but to date the results of that investigation is not known and Phillips is now pushed aside even though he is an asset to the police force and certainly an asset to solving some of these unsolved murders.

 

GREAT BAY,– The vaccination outreach program of Youth Health Care (YHC) whose offices are located at the Vineyard Office Park, was a success last week Monday and Tuesday during the mid-term school break.

YHC administered 39 vaccinations (23 Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), 16 DTPolio) to the age group of four through 17-years of age. Some of the children are still in day care while others aren't going to school.

Persons came to the YHC office to update their child's vaccination cards/records who were vaccinated in school or to verify whether their child was up to date.

Appointments have also been made with some parents/guardians for follow-up vaccinations for Hepatitis B and DTPolio, according to Mayra Martina from YHC.

Martina added that, parents and guardians are encouraged to visit the YHC during office hours every day in the afternoons or during school breaks to keep track of the status of their child's vaccination schedule.

Mayra Martina from YHC would like to thank all parents and guardians who made an effort to visit the YHC's office to update their child(ren's) vaccination records or to get their vaccinations.

"According to the World Health Organization, the state of the world's vaccines and immunization reports that more infants are being immunized today than ever before against life-threatening diseases – a record 106 million in 2008. Vaccines are a tool to control disease in all countries.

"I call on parents/guardians to check your child's vaccination status to make sure they are up to date," Commissioner of Health Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS).

YHC has changed its vaccination schedule and all children between four and nine-years of age will now get their second MMR vaccine at four years of age.

The DTPolio vaccination will continue to be given when the child is nine-years of age.

Other changes in the vaccination schedule apply to children between two and 12 months of age.

Parents are reminded to make sure that their children between the ages of 0-17 are up to date with their vaccinations which are necessary in order to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.

DTP, MMR and catch-up Hepatitis B vaccines will be given to children who are not up to date.

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

Parents should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the status of your child, you should contact either your general practitioner, paediatrician, YHC or the White & Yellow Cross Baby Clinic for children up to four years of age.

GREAT BAY:----The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is a program (funded by USONA) for youngsters between the ages of 16 and 24 years who were unable to finish secondary education and does not have the start qualifications needed to enter the job market. Limited spaces are available.

The program targets youngsters between 16 and 24 years who have not finished secondary education and does not possess the start qualifications needed to obtain a job. The program focuses on training youngsters in specific job functions that are needed on the island.

Deadline for registration is the 24th of February 2010 or until spaces are filled.

The program has now been approved for the next three years (2010-2012) and on January 27th 2010, the project was signed off by Commissioner Marlin and Director of USONA, Mr. Reginaldo Doran. Classes officially commenced on February 8th 2010 for the program.

The program is now registering for the Social Pedagogic Worker (SPW/Care). After successful completion of this course, one can work in a daycare, an afternoon school or a foster home with persons within the age group of 0-18 years.

SPW1 stands for Social Pedagogic Worker and the course being offered is on a SBO level 1 (assistant's level). The course falls under the Care sector and takes 1 year to complete. Upon successful completion, students will be qualified to work as an assistant group leader at a daycare, pre-school, afternoon school or a foster home.

The course focuses on "caretaking" within the age group of 0 to 18 years. The course is a working learning course therefore 80% of the course is spent on job training. Students will be required to carry out 5 hours job training, 5 days a week for the duration of the course. The course is taught by SIFMA.

A valid copy of your St. Maarten ID is needed to register.

For more information, contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497 or visit us at our office upstairs Carl and Son's Bakery on the Walter Nisbeth Road between 2pm and 5 pm.

Philipsburg:--- Former Constitutional Affairs commissioner Sarah Wescot Williams in a press release said while all indications of the last couple of weeks pointed in the direction of a cabinet crisis in Holland, it is rather unfortunate that this happens just now.
The past week also revealed a rift between the Dutch Parliament and the State Secretary of Kingdom affairs, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld with regard to the handling of the constitutional (consensus) Kingdom laws by the same Parliament.
Notwithstanding the State Secretary's admonishment that if 10-10-10 is to be achieved, the Dutch Parliament needs to handle these laws as soon as possible, the same Parliament feels they should set their own agenda.
The Parliament hinted to the handling of these laws in April, at the same time wanting to visit the islands during the month of April and preferably before they deal with the draft laws.
All of this is now up in the air says Wescot Williams.
On March 3rd, there will be local elections in Holland.
In addition to this political barometer, regular elections for the Dutch Parliament were scheduled for late 2010/ early 2011, as the current Dutch Parliamentary term would have ended in February 2011.
The Dutch government was facing some tough baffles before the scheduled elections of 2011. In addition to its international standing on several matters, the budgetary dilemmas facing the cabinet and the need to make drastic cuts were also on the horizon.
What does all of this mean for Sint Maarten?
Already during the discussions of the Second Chamber on the issue of the constitutional Kingdom laws, doubt about St. Maarten was again raised. The government of Sint Maarten's "we are not ready" admission has surely not helped in this respect.
No party in the Netherlands is eager to wage a battle in St. Maarten's defense. There wasn't one before and there surely is none now.
Our best bet under these circumstances?
Close ranks on the constitutional process. Before this is misunderstood; with closing ranks, I do not mean a picture of government and opposition of Sint Maarten sitting shoulder to shoulder at a meeting of the Political Steering Group. This is purely cosmetic.
Close ranks with the opposition and establish a position on matters like the currency, the constitution for Country Sint Maarten, the island budget, the good governance laws ( as prepared by the current opposition (DP) and announced b y government (NA) in July 2009); justice matters, taxes and health.
Yes, probably 10-10-10 is in danger, but the quest for Country Sint Maarten is not.
We need to pursue that quest with all that we have and with all who we have, so that together we can shoulder any disappointment coming our way and remain determined and adamant to see the process to its end.

Philipsburg:--- The operational manager of GEBE power plant Kenrick Chittick told reporters on Monday that the current power outages from GEBE is caused mainly because GEBE have been experiencing some electrical failures with its two new generators. Chittick said while they have reduced the length of time for the power outages, the electrical failures they are faced with is nothing new or out of the ordinary. He said even with the old generators they are having the same type of problem; Chittick said on several occasions the engines just shut down because of a short circuit and tripping.

The operations manager said GEBE is also conducting its general overhaul for at least three of its engines namely 12, 15, and 16. These overhauls were postponed from last year and each of the engines would take a minimum of three to four weeks before the overhaul is complete. Chittick said the new generators that GEBE has purchased has caused the company to save monies and time especially when there are ground seas. He said the new engines have radiator cooling system verses the seawater cooling which normally clog their systems.
The operations manager said GEBE is also planning to purchase another new generator early next year so that they can compete with the supply and demand. Currently GEBE is supplying 53 megawatts during peak time while they have a 72 megawatts capacity.

GEBE is also looking into upgrading its waste management system to avoid future oil spills. Chittick said GEBE already have a waste management system, which overflowed last week. He said the company does not pump waste oil in the sea intentionally. On the contrary, they ship their unused oil to Trinidad at the oil refinery for processing.

GREAT BAY,– Governor Franklyn Richards extended his warmest greetings and best wishes to the Dominican Republic Consul General Doris Elsa Vasquez Martinez and members of the Dominican Republic community on the island, on the occasion of the celebration of 'Semana Dominicana,' earlier this week.

Governor Richards was unable to attend the event last Saturday due to being in Puerto Rico for the Special Olympics Latin America Games.

In his letter to the Consul General, Governor Richards pointed out how the Dominican Republic shares many common interests with Sint Maarten, adding that they are not only commercial interests but have extended itself to family, cultural and social ties.

"I trust that as governmental representatives of the Dominican Republic as well as the many hard-working and law-abiding 'Dominicanos' with legal status on Sint Maarten, we can continue to count on your support for the ideals and principles which Sint Maarten what it is today, and which, ultimately, continues to benefit not only the Sint Martiner but non-nationals, including Dominicanos, as well.

"Today, in 2010, it remains a very real challenge, and one which should always be pursued, if we together are to become truly successful in our dreams and objectives of developing an even better Sint Maarten, for ourselves and for future generations," Governor Richards letter to the Dominican Republic Consul General Doris Elsa Vasquez Martinez said.

Governor Richards concluded in his letter that the 2010 Semana Dominicana may serve not only as an occasion to celebrate the colourful heritage, the culture, traditions, and the commemoration of Dominican Republic independence, but that it may also serve as a time of reflection on the road travelled as well as the road lying ahead.

Philipsburg: ---- Some twenty persons, fourteen of which are females and six males received their declaration of naturalization from Acting Lt. Governor Millicent de Weever. The recipient hails from St. Lucia(4), Dominican Republic (4) Haiti (3) Jamaica (3), Suriname (2) Guyana (2) China (1), and India (1).
Wednesday's ceremony is the first for the year 2010 and it is the smallest group to receive their Dutch Nationality since the process began in December 2008. Seven of the twenty recipients took the declaration of solidarity.
Acting Lt. Governor Millicent De Weever admonished the group to always respect and love St. Maarten. De Weever said you should all show respect and love for St. Maarten and if necessary and above all defends St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:----Red Cross Trainer Melitza Maduro from St. Eustatius, spent Saturday and Sunday on St. Maarten to train the Mental Health Foundation Staff in emergency response. It was a 2-day intensive course in reanimation and all other emergency related techniques. Regardless of their busy schedule all staff participated the whole weekend and successfully achieved their certificates.

GREAT BAY:--- On Wednesday, February 3, Island Council members, the Governor, Commissioner Xavier Blackman, as well as Island Secretary Joane Dovale-Meit, Quartermaster for the Parliament of Country Sint Maarten Cassandra Janssen and the Sector Directors will be attending a workshop on dualism.

The concept of dualism creates the division of power between the Council of Ministers (executive branch) and the Parliament (legislative branch). These two branches of government will be the new institutions that will govern country St. Maarten.

Dualism, the separation of powers, assures checks and balances between the two branches of government, ensuring that the executive branch is supervised by the members of the legislative branch, who are representatives elected by the people.

The current structure of Executive Council and Island Council will cease to exist on 10-10-10 and be replaced by the Council of Ministers and the Parliament of Country Sint Maarten. Persons who are members of parliament will not be able to sit in the Council of Ministers at the same time.

The theme of the workshop is: "Dualism in Country St. Maarten 10-10-10," and is organized by the Island Secretary's office in collaboration with the Dutch Association of Municipalities (VNG).

Experts from the VNG will share their knowledge based on their experiences of dualism in politics. Dualism workshops were first introduced to Dutch politicians in 2002.

Dutch experts from the VNG will present the pros and cons of dualism based on experiences in Holland. A discussion will then take place on how to introduce the concept of dualism in the new governmental institutions for country St. Maarten at the political level in order to achieve a balance between the executive and legislative levels of government.

The four VNG experts who will be providing information to the workshop participants are: Nico Schoof, Gilbert Isabella, Marieke Verhoeven and Famke Kweekel.

The workshop will take place at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel.

GREAT BAY (GIS) — The Sector of R.O.B., department of Maintenance would hereby like to inform the general public that the patch of potholes will starts as of this week. After carrying out an island wide inventory of all of the potholes, priorities has been set for which area's patching will be executed first. The priority patching will be executed to relieve the traffic congestion and danger to the road users in general.

The following roads/areas have been defined as priority areas:
- Philipsburg area, Walter Nisbeth Rd, Cannegieter Rd, Long Wall Rd.
- Bush Rd,
- LB Scott Rd,
- Cole Bay area, Welfare Rd, Union Rd, Waterfront Rd.
- Simpson Bay / Airport Rd.

The milling of the area's and potholes will be executed prior to the patching with asphalt. The period between milling and patching will in most cases not exceed more than 24 hours. Motorists are advised to exercise patients and caution while driving. The patching will be executed in general outside the "peak hours" and in the evening hours. Patching will be executed during the weekdays and Sundays, but not on the Fridays and Saturdays.

For more information about the planned work interested persons can contact the Sector of R.O.B. department of Maintenance (Mr. C. Buncamper or Mr. B. Ortega).

Philipsburg: ---- The killers of Jean Claude Busquet are scheduled to appear before the court of First Instance on February 24 confirmed Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said the suspects have confessed to the crime. Busquet was killed on December 12 at his business place the Bumper Car Fun Park in Simpson Bay.

SMN News learnt that the main suspect a Jamaican also killed two persons in his country and he only arrived on St. Maarten recently. The source said the culprit managed to get a job 24 hours after he arrived on the island at the Bumper Car Fun Park and that he killed his employer less than one month after. Asked about this Mud said he is not able to get information from Jamaica that easily. He said for his office to receive the police records of the suspect he has to file an international request.

Now that it is stated that the suspect killed at least two persons in Jamaica prior to him coming to St. Maarten questions are being raised about the island's immigration system. The source said that anyone including notorious criminals is allowed to enter St. Maarten as long as they have the required amount of show monies at the airport. "There is no background check on anyone coming here. Had they implemented the visa for Guyanese and Jamaicans that person would not be here. He would have been screened prior to getting a visa." The source said.

Philipsburg:--- Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed on Wednesday that the police have not arrested any suspects in the Christian Lloyd murder investigation. The statement given on Wednesday confirms the statement made by Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud on Tuesday. However, Mud had said on Tuesday that the police were busy hearing several persons. Mud did not rule out suspended police officer Germaine Semeleer as one of the persons they are hearing when contacted on Tuesday. However, he did say that no one was arrested on Tuesday.
Henson in his press release says that the police department wants to clarify that in connection with the ongoing investigation, with regards to the murder of the late Christian Lloyd, whose body was discovered at his home on January 25th 2010, the Police Department wants bring some clarification to the media reports that have been in circulation. The investigation into this case is still ongoing and contrary to the reports that have been circulating in the local media, no one has been arrested by the police in connection with this case. The Public Prosecutors Office has also stated the same to the media. The police department regrets the fact that the media is giving incorrect information.
The police department wants to inform the general public that when a suspect in this case is arrested the media will be informed.
Until an arrest is made, the police department will not be giving any further comments or information with regards to this ongoing and very sensitive investigation.

In an invited comment Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud said that he is not making any further comment on the case for now. Asked if anything has changed from Tuesday to Wednesday Mud said no comment.

Based on sources that are closely attached to the police department the alleged suspect was being questioned by police in relation to the ongoing murder investigations. Several of our sources say that the detectives handling the case have their man. It is still not clear if the suspended officer is talking to the police on a voluntary basis.
SMN News reported on Friday and Tuesday that information into this investigation is not forthcoming from law enforcement.

Philipsburg: ---Some 20 immigration officers who completed the course on becoming an immigration officer from St. Maarten and Statia received their diploma on Thursday at the Philipsburg Police Station. Also receiving a certificate of recognition was Chief Inspector Carl John for being a mentor to these officers.

Sarah Wescot-Williams, presenting on behalf of herself and DP president, Mr.Michael Ferrier, 2 checks to the Christian Council as part of this Council's effort to raise funds for Haiti's relief. Accepting the checks is Pastor Wycliffe Smith of the New Testament Baptist Church. The pledges by the DP leader and NAPA were made during the recent radiothon held in aid of the Haitian people.

MARIGOT—The gendarmes arrested a 23 year old man who is suspected of robbing a grocery store in French Quarter at gunpoint. A press release from the gendarmerie said the incident occurred on December 7. The suspect they said acted alone and he assaulted the employees including the cashier. The gun man also fired shots in the air.

The gendarmes also arrested a 21 year old man after he snatched a handbag of an 83 year old woman. The robbery occurred on Saturday in Bellevue. The elderly woman was injured during the ordeal.

The officers also arrested a 35 year old man who was in possession of monies as well as marijuana and cocaine. The suspected drug dealer was released but will appear in court at a later date.

Philipsburg: --- Information reaching SMN News states that the leader of the People's Progressive Party Gracita Arrindell and Commissioner Theo Heyliger are to sign an agreement as early as Tuesday declaring that they have begun talks to form the new green party.

SMN News learnt that Heyliger and Arrindell had agreed prior to the parliamentary elections that they were going to team up for country election which is slated for June 2010.
According to supporters of Heyliger, the commissioner already has a Chinese businessman, an Arab and an Indian to form part of his list. Among them it is understood is police inspector Johan Janchi Leonard. SMN News learnt that Heyliger is impressed with the 600 votes Arrindell obtained during the January 22 election and he wants to make sure she does not change her mind. "It's about votes and winning for Heyliger so he can remain in government to complete the half a billion road projects he has in the works." The source said. When contacted for a comment Heyliger confirmed he has been talking with several persons to form his new party. He did not say when and where he is going to sign off on the declaration. In an invited comment the PPA leader Gracita Arrindell said she would neither confirm nor deny if she is teaming up with Heyliger to form the new party.

Philipsburg: --- The management team of the police department KPSSS has removed a second detective handling murder cases in recent days. SMN News learnt that two Friday's ago detective Norwin Villarreal was removed from one of the recent murder investigations that are currently being investigated.
The source said that the management team also removed Villarreal from the detective department and transferred him to the Simpson Bay police outpost. It is further understood that the matter came up for discussion on Friday last week when members of the NAPB and the ABVO met with the management team of KPSSS.
Currently the KPSSS and the RST are busy investigating five unsolved murder cases. They are Haresh Dayalani, David Eustace Priest, Christian Lloyd, Eric Yuan Sam and Saliba Absalon.
In an invited comment Villarreal said he is not willing to divulge any information regarding the case since he requested an investigation.

This is the second local detective that has been removed from a particular murder investigation. The first was detective Carlton Philips who spoke out against what he termed as discrimination within the police force and more recently, Norwin Villarreal for unknown reasons.. Since his removal the Prosecutor's office has since refused to work with Philips even though he is still working in the detective department. The prosecutor's office had made clear that unless Philips apologized to them they were not going to work with him.
SMN News made several phone calls to Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran for a comment on this new development but Doran never answered his cellular phone.

Philipsburg: --- Jacqueline Bennet is the new Life Insurance manager at NAGICO Insurances and she brings a very strong philosophy with her, which should ensure the success of the company's Life Insurance product as well as the expansion of the Group Life department. Her mantra is, "To be successful in the Life Insurance Business: Believe in Life Insurance, believe in the Company you represent and believe in yourself!"
This self confidence has enabled her to rally through 15 years in the Insurance industry; moving from being a novice to emerging as one of the most well respected Insurance Executives in Trinidad and Tobago. Her career achievements have been solid, winning several industry accolades; she was "Rookie of The Year" not only Sagicor, but for the whole Insurance Industry in Trinidad in 1995. After that, she was named "Agent of The Year" for several years, some consecutively, over the years, Jacqueline was always" The Top Producer" in policies sold, selling over 100 every year.
Ms. Bennet is a Certified Financial planner, CFP, and her many other Life Insurance Courses qualifications include the CLU. She has also completed Manager's courses with LIMRA.
This outstanding Insurance Executive has attended the Million Dollar Round Table meetings on several occasions and became head of her own Agency in 2005 and had one of the Top Performing Agencies not only in Trinidad but in The Caribbean.

Marigot:--- Family and supporters of the United Volleyball Club youth teams are being encouraged to come out and support them in their matches at the Great Bay Sports Auditorium on Saturday.
The United youth teams are currently taking part in the annual tournament of the Ligue de Volleyball des Iles du Nord in Galisbay. However, because of a technicality with logistics, the League will be using the GBSA for the games this weekend.
This is a great opportunity for the United teams, says Rhoda Arrindell, club coordinator. "At least this way a lot of parents and supporters who don't usually get to see them play in Galisbay will get the opportunity to see how the children have been progressing. Of course, the parents know that their children train weekly with the coaches, Clevie and Raymond, but they seldom get to see their progress, and at least now they can't use the excuse of the distance," she added.
Because of inactivity of the sport in the South, the UVC youngsters have been participating in the adult tournament for the past two years. This year, when the League introduced the junior games in January, it was natural for the teams to participate. This means that UVC has male and female teams in the senior and junior divisions.
While the less experienced females have struggled in the senior division, the males have been doing very well and are well on their way to the playoffs. Both boys and girls are expected to do well in the junior division, which wraps up in June.
The games on Saturday start at 7:00 p.m. with the UVC females expected to face No Limit, and the males taking on WIS.

Recently a new option for HIV testing became available. You can now take the HIV test at home. However, home testing is not for everyone. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved HIV home tests are as accurate as the antibody tests done in doctor's offices and health departments, and they use the same ELISA/Western Blot/IFA tests. However, not all home test kits are the same, and some companies are selling unapproved tests, the accuracy of which is unknown (see below). Like other antibody tests, these tests are subject to the same six-month waiting period in order for the tests to be fully accurate. The FDA-approved home tests are more than 99% accurate beyond six months after a possible exposure to the virus.
There are certain pros and cons to using home testing kits.

Pros:

• A person who's scared about being seen in a clinic can do the test without anyone outside their home knowing about it. They may feel more comfortable doing the test alone.
• These tests can be purchased in some stores, or ordered by phone or on the Internet, and can be an option for those who do not have transportation to local clinics, or who are home-bound due to disabilities.
• The FDA-approved tests are as accurate as antibody tests commonly used in clinics around the country. However, keep in mind that, unfortunately, there are unapproved home HIV tests being sold to consumers (see below).

Cons:

• Home testing is more expensive than going to the local health department. Testing through local health departments, and some private agencies, is free or low-cost. Home test kits can cost up to $50.
• Another issue to be dealt with is confidentiality. If a person buys a home test kit in a store, everyone in the store will know that the person is taking an HIV test. Another option would be to purchase the kits by phone or through the Internet.
• When you order the tests (by phone or via the Internet), you must give your name and address. When you order by credit card, the charge for the test will appear on your credit card statement. Although your name is not linked to your test results, people who see your credit card statement may find out that you're being tested.
• When taking a test at home, after you're finished taking the test, all the packaging from the kit has to be well hidden in the garbage. If a garbage man empties your garbage, and sees the test kit packaging, they'll know you took an HIV test. Also, if your garbage gets ripped open by animals, or if the garbage can gets blown open by the wind (and gets blown all over your neighborhood), your neighbors can also know you've been tested. So for people taking the home test, I say "hide your garbage!"
• In a home test kit, a person has a test ID card that is used to identify the specimen by number. Anyone who has the number can get the test result over the phone. The person who is being tested has to make sure that nobody else sees the card. Otherwise, any person who sees the card or the number can get that other person's test results. So it's important that a person getting tested at home doesn't leave the ID number lying around the house, where other members of the household can see it. This differs dramatically from testing through the health department. To ensure confidentiality, health departments will usually not give test results over the phone or by mail. Test results through the health department are usually given in person.
• Getting test results over the phone can be hard to deal with, especially if the test is positive. A person can just hang up and never hear all the counseling and information they need to hear. For this reason test counseling is best done face-to-face, and is most effective this way.
• Using home testing, if a person is positive, there is no way to do partner notification (anonymously helping a person's sex/needle-sharing partners know they've been exposed). Partner notification is routinely done by local health departments around the country for HIV and other STDs. Home testing bypasses this important, and proven, preventive health measure.
• There are presently two home HIV testing companies that have received FDA approval for these types of tests, Home Access, and Confide, which is no longer on the market. Unfortunately I recently discovered at least three other companies that are selling home HIV tests that have not been approved by the FDA. The three companies I found were all advertising via the Internet. Beware of these unapproved kits and only use Home Access for now.

The test itself takes about an hour to do (which includes time for the specimen to dry and to package up the sample to send to the lab). It also includes a lot of reading material. I therefore recommend about two hours doing the test at home. This includes all the time to read the materials, and to do the actual test.
It is up to you to decide whether home testing is for you. However, you must first understand the pros and cons of home testing. It has its benefits, but it also has its drawbacks, as discussed above. But if you decide to take a home test, make sure that it is sold by a legitimate company. Otherwise, you may be wasting your money, and possibly endangering your health.

Philipsburg:--- Devon Otto would have to spend the next 30 years behind bars for the slaying of census office worker Stanley Orlando Gumbs. Stanley Gumbs was killed on March 31 2008, his body was found in front of Carolina Bar.
Among the ten charges against Otto, he was charged with manslaughter, theft with violence as well as threatening of two police officers. The court of first instance had sentenced Otto to 21 years behind bars but he appealed claiming he did not kill anyone. Otto was also wanted for rape and armed robbery on the French side of the island.

Philipsburg:--- Police have arrested the owner of a pawn shop located on A.T Illidge Road as a suspect in one of their murder investigations. SMN News learnt that police arrested Ricky Lake on Monday for his involvement in the shooting of a Kittian man known as Hensley at his father's guess house on the night of August 11 2007. Lake is also a suspect in a major robbery case that took place days before the murder.

Hensley was killed execution style in room at Lake's Guest House. During the shooting there were three persons in the room, two men and a woman all of whom it is understood was involved in a jewelry heist at Diamonds International at Oyster Pond. SMN News learnt that Lake, Charles Barry and the deceased man were friends while in prison. It is further understood that Hensley returned to the island and was staying at Lake's Guest House prior to the robbery, two days later the deadly shootout took place. Police arrested Lake in 2007 when he returned to St. Maarten from a trip to Puerto Rico. He was held for some ten days before being released.

Also in custody for these crimes is Charles Barry who was arrested some weeks ago. Sources say police managed to recover valuable evidence when they started the murder investigation of David Eustace Priest. Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed the arrest of Lake. Mos said Lake is a suspect in the 2007 murder investigations.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Department of Education hereby informs all parents that the second phase of the implementation of compulsory education begins with the registration of students between the ages of 7 and 9. This registration is important in order to get an accurate picture of the number of students (whose status is not regulated – the so-called undocumented) that need to be placed within the school system for the upcoming school year.

Registration will take place

Date: February 22nd to February 26th
Place: Department of Education
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

And

Date: March 8th to March 12th
Place: Department of Education
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Parents are advised to bring along the following documents:
- An original birth certificate of the child
- The passport of the child (especially if the child was not born on St.
Maarten)*
- A valid residence permit (if there is one)
- 2 passport pictures of the child
- Identification (passport) of the person registering the child
- If the registration is not being done by the parent, proof of legal
guardianship
- Report card of child
- Immunization card

All birth certificates in a foreign language must be officially translated in English or Dutch. Please ensure that you bring along the original documents as well as photocopies of the requested documents.

The Department of Education is located on the N. Debrot Street (across from the post office). Should there be questions, please contact us at 542-3718 or visit the Department of Education during the registration period.

All parents of students who fit the category listed above are strongly encouraged to make use of this registration process.

*The information page of the passport should be photocopied.

PHILIPSBURG – Are you interested in pursuing a Master of Arts in Education (MAE) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with the University of St. Martin in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands?
If so, the University of St. Martin (USM) will be having an information session on Friday, February 19, 2010 from 4pm to 5pm for you.
Dr. Ron Harrigan of the Education Division at the University of the Virgin Islands will be present to give information to all perspective students. The information session will in rooms 202-203 at the University of St. Martin. USM has been offering MAE program in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) since 2003 and the aim is to also offer the MBA. Some 18 students so far have received their degrees in the MAE program which runs for two years. The areas of concentration in this program include administration and supervision, counseling and guidance, and teaching.
"I am pleased to see this informative meeting regarding the master's programs finally coming to fruition. It is an important step for students, who have been waiting a while for the start of the program to receive answers to all their questions," USM Admissions Director Angelique Hazel said.
USM has also invited officials from the Education Division study-financing section to attend this session.
"We have a significant amount of persons on the island who are interested in pursuing their MAE degree and some who want to pursue their MBA degree. With St. Maarten heading to a new constitutional status, having advanced degrees will be important. This information session should be seen as an opportunity and all interested persons are urged to attend," said USM Marketing Director Michel Chance.
The Masters of Arts in Education and the Masters in Business Administration programs are open to students who have completed a Bachelor's degree and who meet the respective admissions requirements. All students have to meet the requirements as stipulated by the UVI and upon completion of the respective program, students will receive degrees from the University of the Virgin Islands.
"So much planning and personal preparation goes into furthering one's studies as this level. It's an investment, and after this meeting interested persons should have a better idea of how this program will fit in with their work schedules and personal lives. In the coming months the application timeline will be most important," Hazel noted.
Invitations have been sent out to those persons who have inquired at USM about the respective programs but members of the general public are also invited to attend the session on Friday at USM. Persons interested can call the USM Admissions Office at tel. 542-5171 ext. 1008 to confirm their attendance.

Philipsburg:--- On Saturday February 13th at approximately 10.45 a.m. a police patrol was sent to Francis Bar on the A.Th. Illidge road to investigate a case of a stolen air-condition. On the scene the officers spoke to the man with initials J.M.E.P. who stated that a few days ago unknown persons had stolen a air-condition belonging to MICRO DEVICE located on the Illidge road. The establishment in questioned belonged to a family member of his. J.M.E.P. further stated, that he recognized the same air-condition unit in the possession of the man with the initials N.A.M.D. The investigating officers spoke to N.A.M.D. who stated that he received the airco-unit from a unknown drug addict. N.A.M.B. was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station, where he was handed over to the Detective Department. The airco-unit was also confiscated for further investigation.

Bel Air:--- The police are currently investigating a drive by shooting which took place on Saturday at approximately 11.35 a.m. a police patrol was sent to Little Bay road # 5 to investigate a shooting incident reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. On the scene the investigating officers said they spoke to a lady identified as C.M.R. who said that she had learnt that during the night time hours that two men who were riding on a scooter fired shots at a group of men living in the Down Street area. As a result of this shooting one of the bullets penetrated the frame of a bedroom window, hitting a closet and then penetrating the bedroom door. No one was injured during the incident and none of the persons who were shot at filed a police report. The Detective and Forensic Department have been called in to investigate the matter.

Philipsburg:--- Last week the Lion's Club of St Maarten presented the White and Yellow Cross Foundation with a check to support the foundation's latest project.
In September 2009 a group of 18 students started with the SBO Nursing Assistant Course level 2 at the Sundial School. This course is organized by SVOBE, under supervision of IFE Curacao (the Nursing School). The first block of the course consisted of theoretical hours and was completed successfully in December. At present the students have started their practical period, consisting of 4 days of traineeship per week at the White and Yellow Cross Foundation or the SMMC and 1 day theory at the Sundial School. The school fee has been kept very low by SVOBE to enable the students to take part in this two-year course. Books and uniforms are provided to the students free of charge. This resulted in a very high number of registrations and a full class.
During job training the SBO students do not receive any salary or other income and health care organizations would like to compensate these students with a small training fee. However, the WYCF already has financial deficits and difficulty to cover its basic operations, leaving no monies to spare for such a job training compensation. Therefore Bregje Boetekees-van't Hof, Operations Manager of the WYCF decided to approach service clubs to consider sponsoring some of these students by paying their job training fee. The Lion's Club was the first to be contacted and immediately responded positive. To sponsor and "adopt" several local students to obtain a diploma in nursing appealed very much to them and they did not hesitate to participate.
The WYCF and SVOBE hope that other service clubs, organizations and businesses will join this project and assist with this worthwhile cause. The total amount collected so far for this project is $ 3.500 and to complete it another $ 3.700 is needed.

Marigot: --- The gendarmes are busy investigating the death of Henri Almando Avalam (25) of St. Martin whose body was found in a home in Concordia early Thursday morning.
According to Prosecutor Jacques Louvier, Henri was killed while looking through a window at some bandits who were busy breaking into his car to steal materials.
Louvier said the young man was working as an electrician and he had lots of materials including a DVD player in his vehicle at the time.
Louvier said Henri was at his girlfriend's house at the time of the incident. He said it appeared as if Henri heard when someone was breaking his vehicle and he decided to look through a window to see what was happening but the bandits responded by firing one shot at the victim, which killed him on the spot. Louvier made clear that the victim was a working man and that he was not known by the Gendarmerie.

The French prosecutor said the gendarmes are busy investigating the case.
In the meantime, a press release from the Gendarmerie states that the SMUR and the fire brigade responded to the scene around 3:30 am but was unable to revive the victim. The gendarmes also confirmed that a number of their agents are now working on the case. Notably this is the second murder recorded on the French side of the island for the year 2010.

Philipsburg: --- Police on St. Maarten sent back former police officer Gregory Rogelio Koieman to Curacao on Thursday. Koeiman is wanted for a murder investigation on his native island.
Prosecutor Hans Mos said the suspect left the island on Thursday for Curacao. Police on St. Maarten arrested Koeiman on the request of Curacao Police as he is a person of interest in the shooting death of a musician identified as Gabriel Santos Castillo. Mos said the police squad team and other officers did an excellent job in locating Koieman and arrested in such a short period of time.

Koeiman was convicted for several robberies he committed while serving the police force. Sources close to the police on St. Maarten KPSSS said the former officer has disgraced the police force since he is constantly involved in criminal activities. One of the persons who openly showed his frustration towards reporters and the fact SMN News reported that Koieman was a former police officer is the spokesperson for the NAPB police union Carlyle Rogers. Rogers in a comment on this website and another website felt that reporters are targeting the KPSSS since they are still linking Koeiman to the police force even though he was fired some 16 years ago.

Philipsburg:---Acting on information received from an anonymous caller that someone was seen with two handguns, the Zero Tolerance team and patrols from the Philipsburg District went to St. Peters area to investigate the matter. At around 05.00 p.m while on the Grapefruit Road in Sint Peters, the driver of the rental car with the number plate R- 290 who was identified as the suspect with initials L. A. P. was stopped.

L.A.P. is from Sint Maarten and he is living in Sandy Ground on the French side. When asked if he was in possession of any weapons, he admitted he did. During a search of the vehicle two fully loaded revolvers caliber .38 special were found and confiscated. Both revolvers were loaded with hollow point bullets. 10 extra hollow point bullets along with two knives were also found and confiscated. L.A.P. was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station and handed over to the Detective Department for further investigation.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Sector Economy and Tourism, consisting of the Departments of Economic Policy and Research (DEPR), Permits and Licenses, Public Vending and Economic Control (VOSEC), and Control, Inspection and Security (CIB), held a workshop to deal with the implementation of Residential Economic, Vending, and Beach policies.

The training which took place at the UTS Training Center was to inform the controllers, inspectors, front- and back-office employees of the specific changes and new regulations.

The topics were opening hours, residential economic policy, land usage conflict, complaints, guidelines for the issuances of licenses, business activities prohibited in residential areas and those businesses allowed in residential areas, guidelines for controllers and inspectors, penalty structure, problem outline in the areas of vending and beach policy, and guidelines for issuance and control of vending licenses, approval for stationary permits, beach activities guidelines, vending licenses guidelines, and the board walk policy.

Business hours are extended on Thursday to 9pm and all businesses, unless otherwise restricted, are eligible to apply for extended opening hours on Sundays and days equal to Sunday from 11am to 3pm.

Business activities prohibited in residential areas (and only allowed in commercial areas):
• Bars
• Restaurants with music
• Discos and Nightclubs (entertainment establishments)
• Carwashes
• Automobile garages & salvage junkyards
• Adult entertainment
• Any other establishment that creates public nuisance

Business activities allowed in residential areas:
• Administrative offices
• Medical offices
• Spa facilities
• Day care facilities (pre-schools)
• Assisted living facilities (nursing homes, group homes and orphanages)
• Professional offices, such as but not limited to:
o Architectural firms
o Law firms, notaries, insurance companies, trust & management companies
o Accounting

Businesses are active when following 'burden of proof' is submitted at VOSEC:
• Documentation that business has paid SVB/BTP w/in last 3 months
• Copy of Wage Tax of last 3 months (employees)
• Copy of stamped monthly TOT documentation from Federal Receiver (3 months)
• Copy GEBE bill incl. receipts from last 3 months-> address business must correspond with address on GEBE bill
• Copy of business license

Underneath are some regulations regarding the operations of Businesses, namely:
• Businesses with unrelated activities are not eligible to establish at same location;
• Establishments that require a hindrance permit will not be issued a license w/in residential areas;
• It is prohibited for property owners, landlords, and renters, businesses and vending permit holders to allow their property, establishment or place of business to be used for noisy or unruly assembly (per article 46 of the APK St Maarten)
• Business licenses will not be granted in contradiction to the land usage as specified in Deed.

The following actions and penalties will be imposed on offenders:

• Scenario 1: In case the establishment has required documentation

•  1st and 2nd violation : written warning
•  3rd violation: closure for 1 week
•  4th violation: closure for 1 month
•  5th violation: closure for 3 months
•  6th violation: revocation of license

• Scenario 2: If establishment doesn't have required documentation, the penalty is immediate closure until all documents are in order. In case the documentation is in process, a letter by VOSEC needs to be shown as proof.

GREAT BAY,– The total number of returned ballot cards for the Netherlands Antilles Parliamentary elections was 1036. The Civil Registry Department will be embarking on a campaign to find out where these persons are in order to have its electoral registry up to date in time for country Sint Maarten elections.

A plan of action has been developed to deal with the 1036 persons whose physical address has been labelled as unknown.

The plan includes publishing the names of the persons; however a letter will be sent to them first to their last known address on file. If no response is received within a certain timeframe, the follow-up will be a visit from Civil Registry Control Officers who will determine if the person is still residing at that particular address.

The Civil Registry Department is seeking the cooperation of the 1036 persons whose address is unknown, to get in contact with the office as soon as possible.

For persons who have relocated overseas, their residential physical address information is required in order to make sure the registry files are up to date.

Persons who are still registered on the island, but have died while abroad, a family member is requested to visit the Civil Registry Department in order to have the persons file updated. The family member must declare the death with a legalized death certificate (apostille stamp).

Individuals who have moved from one address to another on the island are also requested to inform the Civil Registry Department.

The aforementioned requirements are based on Article 13 sub.2 of the Basic Administration Legislation AB 1999, nr.1 which says that registered individuals who have changed their address are responsible for ensuring that this information is given to the Civil Registry Department within five days. Persons who do not adhere to this are punishable by law.

For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.

Philipsburg: ---The police and prosecutor's office is busy investigating what is considered a prank call to the Princess Juliana International Airport on Friday alerting them of a bomb threat. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said even though the detectives on St. Maarten are busy working on several murder investigations they are also putting a lot of focus on finding the person or persons responsible for calling PJIAE on Friday evening.

Mud said whenever the person or persons are caught they will be prosecuted since the island has lost a considerable amount of monies with the threat and scare. Fire fighters, police, and ambulance personnel were dispatched to the Princess Juliana International Airport on Friday to search the entire building and its surroundings after someone called the Airport Towers telling them a bomb was placed at the airport. For the sake of safety and security management of PJIAE and the police closed St. Maarten Airspace for the area to be searched.
The airport was reopened on Saturday morning for regular services. Hundreds of passengers travelling on KLM, US Air and other airlines had to stay over on St. Maarten Friday evening due to the bomb threat. It is not yet clear if the airlines and other businesses are going to file civil cases against the perpetrator of this cowardly act.

MARIGOT—A 24 year old man was sentenced to six months behind bars with one year probation for committing at least two armed robberies, the gendarmes reported. The convict committed two armed robberies on February 14 and 16th in both cases monies were stolen.

...

CHAA held consultation meetings with key stakeholders recently at five of its six offices throughout the Caribbean to share the organization's new Strategic Framework for the next three years and to engage in stakeholder dialogue regarding the framework.

The meeting was used to provide an overview of the work CHAA has done and continues to do across the region. The Strategic Framework outlines six strategic objectives, comprising work around promoting universal access to prevention, care and support services for key populations in the Caribbean region; the implementation of appropriate intervention strategies, based on evidence, to prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS for key populations; strengthening Civil Society to participate effectively in the response to the HIV and AIDS epidemic; increasing access to effective community-based HIV and AIDS programmes for key populations; working in partnership with key stakeholders for the eradication of stigma and discrimination and securing CHAA's long term viability and sustainability.

Following the presentations, stakeholders actively participated by expressing their thoughts on how CHAA can further support efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination; build capacity among civil society agencies in addition to sharing statistical data and information on lessons learnt. It was agreed that such collaborations would enable more effective, focused, and informed decision-making; as well as remove duplication of efforts, thereby resulting in better use of making more effective use of available resources at the respective agencies and lastly, information sharing which can be used to influence national policy.

The meetings concluded with unanimous consent that the consultation was a positive step forward; attendees applauded CHAA for taking the initiative to host such meetings and in leading the way in strengthening alliances throughout the Caribbean.

One representative indicated that the consultation meeting was greatly appreciated and said it was necessary to host similar meetings on an ongoing basis since it facilitates information exchange, the generation of ideas and greater involvement and partnerships.

Basil Williams, CHAA's executive director indicated he was very pleased with the outcome of the meetings and promised that CHAA will intensify its efforts to positively impact on the reduction of HIV and AIDS in the Caribbean. He stated that stakeholder partnership is essential to a comprehensive and effective approach when responding to the HIV and AIDS epidemic in the Caribbean. Officials who attended the meeting representing national, regional and international organizations' included: UNAIDs; the British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean; Ministries of Social Development; Community Development; Youth Affairs; Education; Health and; Gender Affairs, as well as, Police Service; Red Cross; Peace Corps; Christian Council; National Aids Secretariats; Family Planning Associations; Centers for Disease Prevention and Control and; representatives from the medical fraternity, to name a few. The stakeholder consultation meetings took place at CHAA offices in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines and its headquarters in Trinidad and Tobago.

The CHAA was launched as a country programme of the International HIV/AIDS Alliance (IHAA) in 2003. CHAA became a regionally registered NGO and transitioned to a Linking Organization status of the IHAA family in December 2008.

Marigot: --- Mayor of the former commune of St. Martin Raoul Albert Fleming is facing a six months suspended prison sentence with a 10,000 Euros fine for not making sure all the necessary paper work were in place prior to granting Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS) a contract in December 2004. Collectivity worker Priscilla Bade is also facing a 5000.00 Euros fine and a six month suspended prison sentence for not complying with the French laws when she registered Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS).
Prosecutor Jacques Louvier told the court on Thursday that Fleming as Mayor of St. Martin and the President of the bidding commission did not execute his duties and verify if RTS was eligible for the contract that was awarded to them. Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS) was registered after the bidding process Louvier argued since the necessary paperwork was not provided. The case was brought to the attention of the justice system in 2005 when the preceptor of St. Martin found out that RTS was not fully registered.
Louvier asked the president of the Court of First Instance to impose a six month suspended prison sentence and 10,000 Euros fine for the administrative errors on Fleming and six months suspended sentence with a Euros 5000.00 on Priscilla Bade.
The presiding court president asked Fleming and Bade several questions as to what sort of relationship the two had. It was clear that the court wanted to know if Fleming and Bade had an intimate relationship or if she was paying the Mayor for the contract. "How far away is your office from Mr. Fleming and how often do you see him and who recruited you as a civil servant and are you qualified for the position were some of the questions posed to Bade by the court's president. Obviously shaken and nervous Bade was looking to her lawyer Maitre Aude Richards for assistance to provide the right answers. On several occasions during the trial Bade struggled to provide the answers to the questions posed to her by the court's president.
However, the court's president made sure he got the answers from Bade and not her lawyer. Bade is also accused of hiring four workers illegally since none of them were declared. She told the judge that she has minimum share in the company and that she did not fill in the necessary paper work. Bade said RTS belonged to her brother and she is just a shareholder. Asked how much she was paying each of the four employees Bade had trouble answering those questions since she claimed she was not the one paying the workers. She also indicated to the court that the four employees were not working for her instead; they were working for RTS.

Maitre Richards during his arguments said the person that filled in the necessary paper work for the December 24 2004 bidding was the father of Bade's only child and that the company was registered in September 2004. Maitre Richards also provided several documents to the court to show that his client and RTS did comply with the laws as stipulated.

Pricilla Bade was the head of communications for the commune of St. Martin when the company was registered and the bidding took place. Richards also argued that this case is based on discrimination since the court is doing its best to prosecute Fleming a well-known St. Martiner who gave 30 years of his life to public service. Richards also pointed out that the bidding commission had six members to which Fleming was the president. He said on December 24th 2004 there were four of the six members that handled the bidding and yet only Mayor Fleming is prosecuted. He asked where are the others and why is it they are free to live their lives while his client and the Mayor are being prosecuted. Richards said the judge of instruction also pointed out that the technician and the rapporteur that handled the files prior to presenting them to the commission should be held responsible.
In the meantime, Mayor Fleming made sure he indicated to the court that they need to pay attention to the choice of words they use when dealing with the case, at some point the court's president wanted to question Fleming about Bade and him and instead of using her name or function; he referred to her as Fleming's collaboratice. Fleming told the judge Pricilla Bade was not working for him personally, she is an employee of the commune now Collectivity of St. Martin. He also made clear that the young woman standing beside him in the court is a civil servant. As for charges, Fleming admitted that the bidding commission failed to examine the files properly. He said that the bids passed through a technician before it gets to the commission and that the only way a dossier would reach them is if it qualified. However, the court's president and prosecutor did not accept Fleming's argument saying that the least he could have done is open the envelopes when it was presented to the commission and verify them as President of the commission. Prosecutor Louvier said he was president of several commissions and he knows how the process works since there are statues on these commissions. Louvier argued that the files on each bid was in the hands of Fleming as well as the other members and the rapporteur and all they had to do was examine them. Fleming in his final statement to the court said that he does not know if the court has an idea as to how many files passed through him during the 30 years as public servant. He said the only contract that catches the eye of the court system is the contract granted to RTS and hoped they can consider an acquittal.
The court also summoned head of the human resources of the Collectivity Vernon Roper to question him on the relationship between Fleming and Bade. Roper was asked who recruited Bade for the job at the Collectivity and how did the hiring take place. Roper told the court that Bade was seeing the Mayor on a daily basis since she was the head of the communications department. Roper said in his eyes there was nothing extra-ordinary between Mayor Fleming and Bade. He was asked who recruited civil servants while Fleming was Mayor. Roper responded by saying that it would be either him or Fleming but in the case of Bade he did the recruitment, which the Mayor sanctioned. The court is expected to deliver its verdict on April 22, 2010.
In an invited comment Mayor Fleming said he was not treated fairly since the other three former deputy mayors on the commission was not prosecuted. He said should he be condemned then there would be a criminal record on his police report, which would change his integrity as personal life. Fleming said whatever the outcome of the case he is prepared to deal with it since this case begun some five years ago and this is the second time it was called. "All I need to do now is get the verdict and move on Mayor Fleming told SMN News.

Marigot: --- At least three elected officials from the territorial council and members of the executive board of the Tourist Office walked out of an executive board meeting on Wednesday afternoon after the President of the EPIC Ida Zin Ka Ieu ended up in an argument with first Vice President Daniel Gibbs. According to information, reaching SMN News Gibbs showed up at the board meeting after more than a year of staying away from the tourist office.

The source said even though Gibbs was invited to all the meetings he kept away from them since former director Yann Claysen was removed from his position. On Wednesday, the board was called to discuss at least two agenda points, which are the subventions, and to take decisions on pending contracts.
It is understood board members and territorial councilors Alain Richardson and Jean David Richardson called the meeting to order when they realized that Zin Ka Ieu and Gibbs were engaged in a heated confrontation.
SMN News has been reliably informed that opposition leader and member of the executive council Alain Richardson called on all the board members to walk out of the meetings to send a clear message to both Gibbs and Zin Ka Ieu who are at rift. Richardson it is understood said the walk out on Wednesday is to protest against the attitude of the EPIC president and to demand respect for each member of the executive board.

The source said that Alain Richardson made clear that the ongoing war between the two councilors representing tourism is not benefitting tourism and it is not conducive to St. Maarten. It is further understood that the EPIC president then took a turn at Alain Richardson telling him he was free to leave and he has her permission to go over on the Dutch side of the island and broadcast what took place during the meeting.

Alain Richardson on a number of occasions has said that Gibbs and Zin Ka Ieu have to resolve their problems if they are to work in the interest of St. Martin, but seeming no one took heed until Wednesday.
SMN News further understands that when Gibbs was given the floor to speak at the beginning of the meeting he said that it is of vital importance for his pole and the Office du Tourism to work together in the interest of tourism and St. Martin but somehow that did not sit well with the EPIC president. The source said it was clear that Zin Ka Ieu and Gibbs are not able to work together and the display that took place at the Tourist Office on Wednesday can well happen at one of the trade shows if the two are ever together representing St. Martin overseas.

SMN News has learnt that Gibbs accused Zin Ka Ieu of working illegally during the past year since he did not approve of the projects she executed during his absence. The source said Gibbs even told the EPIC president that he would be requesting an audit for the period she presided the EPIC board.
In the meantime, SMN News also learnt that that the EPIC president and her current director of Office du Tourism Corine Picaut are at odds.
In an invited comment, Zin Ka Ieu told SMN News that she would not be making any comments on what took place on Wednesday. "I have no comment and I am going to leave those who want to talk about the events of the meeting talk." Zin Ka Ieu said. While Jean David Richardson said, he agreed with the statements made by Alain Richardson during the meeting and he left simply because the orde du jour was not respected.
Efforts made to contact leader of the RRR and territorial council Alain Richardson on Friday for a comment proved futile.

World Wetlands Day has been commemorated annually since 1997. Hundreds of Non-Governmental Organizations and other community-based groups around the world make use of this second day of February to take special action aimed at raising government and public awareness of the importance of protecting wetlands.
Today Tuesday February 2, 2010 "World Wetlands day," marks 39 years since the adoption of the Ramsar Convention/Convention on Wetlands in the Iranian City of Ramsar in 1971. "The Convention's mission is the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional, and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world." (Ramsar COP8, 2002). Presently there are over 150 signatories to the convention with more than 1800 wetland sites designated for inclusion in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Significance.
Sint Maarten is party to the Ramsar Convention as part of the Netherlands Antilles and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Netherlands Antilles has so far designated five so-called "Ramsar sites" all on the island of Bonaire (Salina Slagbaai, Goto, Pekelmeer, Lac, and Klein Bonaire). The Convention however encourages parties to add more wetlands to already designated Ramsar sites.

This year's World wetlands day has particular significance for St. Maarten as the neglect and under appreciation of our wetlands, natural and cultural heritage has never been more apparent than it is now with the ongoing filling-in of the Great Salt Pond for the Ring road project.

This systematic filling in and destruction of ponds and the Simpson Bay Lagoon has evidently become the norm rather than an exception despite EPIC and St. Maarten Pride Foundation's numerous calls for the protection of St. Maarten's few remaining wetlands.

In 1950 Dutch Sint Maarten boasted at least 19 ponds (all documented in maps available at the Cadastre's office); by 1995 this had been reduced to 10 ponds and today 15 years later less than 5 remain intact. A list of ponds that have been destroyed in the past decade alone includes the two ponds at Cup coy (completely destroyed in February 2005 for the Porto Cup coy project), the pond at Guano Bay (completely destroyed in March 2005) and Dawn Beach pond (completely destroyed in May 2005 by Columbia Sussex for the Westin hotel).

Dutch Sint Maarten's Ponds as registered at the Cadastre's Office Current Status
1. Atwill Pond (Now Chesterfields restaurant) Destroyed
2. Point Blanche Pond Destroyed
3. Jumble Pond (Now area of Sell Madura) Destroyed
4. Old Bloomindales (elemental) Pond (area of Sundial School) Destroyed
5. Little Bay Pond/ fort Adam or Lay bay Pond (now area of Dive Hotel) Destroyed
6. Fresh Pond Polluted, under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
7. Great Salt Pond Polluted, under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
8. Phoebe Pond (Elide Road) Destroyed
9. Guano Bay Pond Destroyed (March 2005)
10. Red Pond Under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
11. Dawn Beach Pond/Ravine Rouge Destroyed by Columbia Sussex for Westin hotel (May 2005)
12. Oyster Pond Under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
13. Little Bay/ Blair Pond (Welgelegen Pond ) under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
14. St. Johns Pond Destroyed (1994)
15. Cay Bay Pond (behind cay bay cemetery) Destroyed
16. Flamingo Pond Destroyed for airport expansion (1998)
17. Mullet Bay Pond Under threat from redevelopment of Mullet Bay area, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
18. Maho Pond Destroyed
19. Cupecoy Pond 1 Destroyed (February 2005)
20. Cupecoy pond 2 Destroyed (February 2005)

Sint Maarten's ponds have been recommended for protection in reports such as The Ponds of Sint-Maarten, (Ecovision, 1996), the Carrying Capacity Study, the Tourism Master plan and many other reports and studies which concluded that the ponds are of ecological and environmental importance. Some of the island's remaining ponds, especially Little Bay Pond and Mullet Pond, may therefore have a good chance of meeting the criteria of being wetlands of (inter)national significance and could potentially be designated as Ramsar sites.
EPIC and St. Maarten Pride Foundation therefore reiterate their demand that government develops, implements and enforces Zoning Plans and Wetland Protection legislation to protect Sint Maarten's few remaining wetlands. The Foundations also renew repeated calls for the implementation of the already compiled Marine Park Ordinance which has been awaiting Government's approval since the document was completed in 2005.
EPIC, St. Maarten Pride Foundation, Nature Foundation and the Seaside Nature Park will be planting several species of plants found along St. Maarten's coast at the Park's grounds in Cay Bay in recognition of the importance of St. Maarten's wetlands and coastal zones during the course of this week. Date and time will be announced in a subsequent press release.

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association met with the Executive Council on Thursday January 28, 2010 at the Government Administration Building. The meeting was upon request of the SHTA to discuss amongst others, the lack of structured public private partnership.
In its opening statement, the SHTA informed the Executive Council of the challenges hotels are facing. The combined occupancy and room rate for 2009 shows a 27% drop over 2008 and the average spending per visitor has reduced. This pattern is being transmitted to other sectors as well. Wholesalers, for example, are reporting problems with receivable collections and an increase in requests for lengthening payment terms of outstanding bills.
Furthermore, research going forward shows that hotels are already discounting heavily for the 2010 Summer season as well as going into the high season, which is also a testament to Dr. Tromp's statement at the SHTA's Annual Meeting that 2010 will be the most economically challenging year.
Following the introduction, the following agenda items were handled.
Tourism Authority
The SHTA requested an update on the status of the Tourism Authority. Commissioner Frans Richardson stated that the final draft should be finalized within the first two weeks of February and that the SHTA will then receive a copy for final comments.

Development of a Hotel school (from the 10th European Development Fund)

The SHTA was asked to take part in a 4 day workshop to assist in designing a project that could be used for the 10th EDF. The participants of that meeting decided on a hotel/ hospitality school. The SHTA has since requested updates, but was told that the plan was delivered to the Executive Council.
Commissioner Fran Richardson stated that no document has reached the Executive Council, but will seek clarity on the matter.

Crime
The SHTA relayed its concern that if the economy worsens, so will crime and therefore suggested that St. Maarten should follow the French side and increase police presence on the streets. Lt. Governor Richards agreed and stated that crime is also a social issue and therefore placed a lot of emphasis on public/private partnership and community involvement. He also listed several actions currently being undertaken to address the issue. These include:
o Reorganizing the police force: This plan is expected to be approved in February 2010 and implemented soon after.
o Letters have been sent to the Central Government requesting reinforcements. These will be coming to the island soon.
o The Island is working with several Dutch municipalities and Suriname on a trajectory to get additional reinforcements. This is in process.
o Surveillance system will soon start in key areas.
The Lt. Governor also stated his desire to alter the application requirements for the police force; mainly, the language component.
Public Transportation
The SHTA stated that after reviewing some of the travel websites, it appears that traffic is one of the top complaints from visitors. -This was also reflected in the results of the Exit Survey the SHTA conducted a few years back at the Airport. - The SHTA believes this is largely due to the lack of a structured public transportation system. The SHTA was then given a progress report on the Changing Lanes project, in which public transportation is being addressed. This project is set to begin within the next two months. Some of the plans being explored include:
o Ensuring that public transportation covers all areas ( and to bring an end to gypsies)
o Stopping busses from running through backstreet, but instead establishing a bus terminal near town. Ferries will then be available to take persons into town
o Building a road through the lagoon, from the Airport to the Dutch/ French border in Bellevue
o If things continue to worsen, Government may have to consider restricting the number of cars per household.
Sustainable Development

The SHTA also hoped to discuss Sustainable Development, but because the subject is so broad and covers an array of issues, such as waste management, zoning and reef protection, Lt. Governor Richards requested that the SHTA schedule a follow up meeting.

All in all the meeting was very productive and informative. The goal of the meeting was not to advocate what Government should be doing, but to stress the need for structural public/ private partnership to weather the storm ahead.

...

Airport:---Winair has joined the long list of companies along with organizations and institutions who have been lending tangible assistance to the government and people of Haiti in an effort to help in rebuilding the country.

The help being provided by Winair to the Haitians has been described as appropriate and very timely by Chairman of the Board of Directors, Fernando William who commented on the January 12th disaster following the 7.0 magnitude earthquake.

Chairman William noted that while Winair has its current challenges and difficulties it cannot just put a blind eye to the enormous and continued suffering of the people of Haiti which he noted has been dominating the media houses covering the disaster. He stressed that his company will continue to seek ways and avenues in providing further assistance stressing the need for more companies, organizations and institutions to come on board so as to lend whatever help that they can.

In a message to employees at the company's year end dinner, Managing Director, Edwin Hodge said that the needs in Haiti are proving to be immense, requiring a massive response from the international community. As such, he announced that his company will be making a donation of $7,000.00USD.

He noted that he hopes that the monies being donated by his company will aid in assisting with meeting the needs of the people there. Hodge declared that his company while not in Haiti is ready and willing to help those affected in any way possible.

The Winair MD pointed out that his company saw the need to lend a helping hand noting that disasters requires the significant assistance and support of all so as to rebuild after such a devastating earthquake. He urged his employees to remember the Haitian people on a daily basic stressing the need to continue recognizing that whenever disaster strikes one place it affects all others directly and indirectly.

Meanwhile, according to media reports the critical focus at this stage continues to be to address relief needs, including the provision of emergency medical assistance, clean water and the distribution of basic relief items. However, assessments with a view to long-term recovery planning are already taking place to ensure that livelihoods and infrastructure issues are addressed appropriately and in a timely manner.

Further reports coming out of Haiti indicated that the Haitian Government estimates that 75 percent of the city of Port-au-Prince needs to be rebuilt. Population movements to areas outside the capital are being monitored and assessments are ongoing.

Philipsburg -- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is announcing the following events for registration; Junior & Senior Carnival Queen Show, Junior Road March and Calypso Competition, Youth Extravaganza show, Senior Road March Competition and Junior & Senior Parade.
Stuart Johnson, Vice President of SCDF said, "The planning of Carnival 2010 continues, as we continue to remedy the ongoing situation." Johnson added, "the first meeting with the promoters had been held on Monday and other meetings of the respective stakeholders shall continue." Future meetings of the foundation will be announced in subsequent media reports.
Registration forms can be picked up and dropped off at the security desk at the Government Administration Building as of today February 2nd 2010 between the hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm.

MARIGOT— The gendarmerie is calling on members of the community to send any information they have concerning the whereabouts of an American national who disappeared since January 21 2010. According to a press release from the gendarmerie the missing man has been identified as Robert Brous who was born on Septemnver 10 1968 in New York. Brous was last seen driving a blue BMW rental car with license plate 751 ZBF 971. Anyone having information that could lead to Brous whereabouts is urged to call 00590 590 52 30 00.

Philipsburg: NAGICO has gained the expertise of an insurance professional with over 25 years of industry experience in the person of Karson Bovell, the new Manager of the Group Life & Medical Department. With 21 of these years spent in the group pensions, group life and health insurance areas, we can say he has definitely come of age in insurance terms and NAGICO will be relying on his insurance expertise to lead the expansion and development of the company's Group Life & Medical Insurance products.

Karson Bovell's insurance designations are many. Among his qualifications, he has achieved the following: Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI) Diploma, Fellow of the Financial Services Institute (FFSI) Diploma, Associate of the Annuity Products and Administration (AAPA) Diploma, Fellow of the Life and Health Claims (FLHC) Diploma, Health Insurance Associate (HIA) Diploma designations, in addition to a few others.
Mr. Bovell's experience extends to the handling of the group life, health and pensions insurance portfolios across the Caribbean and his last position was at Sagicor Life as their Manager – Employee Benefits Marketing.
In this regard, Karson, a Barbadian, has spent considerable time designing, marketing, implementing and managing the administration of the group life, health, pension and long-term disability plans for various corporate clients in Barbados, the OECS, The Bahamas, Belize and the Netherland Antilles.

Added to this, his solid background in various other areas of the industry has benefitted him over the years and NAGICO can be sure that his practical knowledge of areas such as Individual Policyholder Servicing, Finance, General Accounting and Internal Audit will shape his approach to his new position.

GREAT BAY: --- Two of St. Maarten's top bodybuilders, Francois Carty and Body Building Champion Leon Bussue, on Thursday, made a presentation to sports commissioner Frans Richardson.
Carty, who is owner of J.C.'s Gym on the French Side said that he was particularly encouraged after St. Maarten's participation at a recent bodybuilder's event held in Anguilla. The initiative has been taken to establish a French side bodybuilding association, which would be affiliated with the world bodybuilding federation.
Carty and Bussue disclosed that among upcoming events at which St. Maarten is to be represented at the ECC competition event in Barbados in May.
The hosting of an inter-island bodybuilders competition is scheduled for June on St. Maarten. Participating islands will be Guadeloupe, St. Barths, St. Maarten (Dutch side / French side) and Anguilla.

GREAT BAY--- Deputy Leader of Government, Commissioner Theo Heyliger, is very pleased with the response of the St. Maarten nation towards Haiti whose capital city Port-au-Prince was devastated on January 12 by an earthquake.

Emergency relief and response operations are continuing in Haiti. The Government of Haiti remains challenged in managing and coordinating the relief efforts.

"It has been an outpouring of support for our brethren in Haiti in prayers, goods, medicines, and funds. The losses are overwhelming and without a doubt, members of the St. Maarten Haitian community will know somebody who has been directly or indirectly impacted by this horrible natural event.

The St. Maarten people have stood in solidarity with the countless earthquake victims in Haiti. Almost a month this week since the earthquake, the current demands of the Haitian people remains housing, shelter, food, water and health care.

In the months ahead, the post-disaster period, the people of Haiti will face the challenge of recovery and reconstruction for the millions affected which includes women, men and children.

I call on individuals and businesses to continue with their efforts to help the people of Haiti after going through a tragedy of immense proportions," Deputy Leader of Government Commissioner They Heyliger told the Government Information Service (GIS).

A central committee of Parliament was held on Tuesday February 9, 2009 at 09.00 with the agenda a discussion with the Curacao Sports Federation (CFS) to get its own recognition to establish its own Olympic Committee for country Curacao. In a General membership meeting the Curacao Sports Federation unanimously decided to set up a Curacao National Olympic Committee to look into the possibilities of The Curacao Sports Federation getting its own Olympic recognition after Curacao becomes a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. However the Rules of the Handbook of the International Olympic Committee were changed in 1996. The change of article 31.1 refers to the fact that the country has to be independent. CFS wants to contest this matter in courts and is requesting the Central Government to make Ang. 120,000 available to embark on this legal process. What the CFS wants to address is the interpretation of this rule. We expressed that St. Maarten sports Federation will also like to have its own representation in the Olympic Committee. St Maarten also would like to have its own flag flown and its own anthem sang but standing in its way is also the amendment to the hand rules of the Olympic Committee. What is interesting is that the Curacao Sports Federation (CFS) in a letter dated February 9, 2010 accused the NAOC of giving incorrect information to the International Olympic Committee, a statement that they later retracted stating it was a wrong choice of words. The Netherlands Antilles Olympic Committee (NAOC) is a member of the International Olympic Committee. And although the Netherlands Antilles will be dismantling on October 10, 2010 the NAOC probably under another name still wants to represent all five islands of the Netherlands Antilles afterward they become country Curacao, St. Maarten and the BES Islands. This apparently is also supported by the Netherlands Olympic Committee (NOC) in a letter written in 2007. The Central committee of Parliament also held discussions with the NAOC on Wednesday February 10, 2010 at 09.00 on this matter. A meeting was hastily convened for 5.00 p.m. with the committee of Finance and the committee of Education and Culture. This was done to seek support from parliament to approve the Ang. 120,000 the Curacao Sports Federation requested to start legal procedures against the International Olympic Committee. Our faction could not agree to this because nowhere was St. Maarten mentioned.
What was for us an extremely important meeting was the central committee meeting on Tuesday February 9, 2010 at 2.00 p.m. to discuss the Draft Ordinance to amend the Island Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles (ERNA) making it possible for the Island councils of the Island Territories of Curacao and St. Maarten to be dismantled separately in order to hold early elections. Our faction had problems with the difference between the wording in the proposal (Aanbieding) and the wording in the draft (Ontwerp). In the proposal No.1 it says thatin the mean time each island council of the Island Territory of Curacao and St. Maarten could be dismantled separately .In the Draft it says No.2 It states that the Island councils of the Island territories of St. Maarten can be dismantled in the meantime. It did not mention the word separately. We need a guarantee that St. Maarten is not left in the cold.
Curacao already has its infrastructure in place if they choose to leave now St. Maarten will be left in a precarious situation because our infrastructure still has to be put in place.
Furthermore on page 2 of the draft ordinance our faction asked for a more detailed explanation of Article 16a sub 1 to 4. We also wanted to know why preconditions were set for the Island territory of St. Maarten to extend our island council from 11 to 15 members. Because as far as we know the 3 previous times the Island Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles was amended there weren't any preconditions set.
We definitely need to study this very technical document properly because after the approval by the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles and then the Kingdom government having it amended again might not be easy. It has taken us almost 10 years to get here and the faction of the National Alliance had always said that we were not ready. Don't forget we need to have a good starting position. Now that we are closer than ever to becoming country St. Maarten we should not allow ourselves to be pushed into something that will not benefit the people of St. Maarten. Everyone must cooperate with us to accomplish this feat.
Our final central committee meeting was held with the Directorates of the Roman Catholic School Board, Public Schools and the United Protestant Christian Education. The discussions had to do with the ongoing escalation of aggression of children in school. This meeting that lasted some 4 hours brought out again the importance of parents, government and society as a whole working together. Albeit a universal problem it does not diminish our responsibility to come up with the human and financial resources.

Philipsburg:---The announcement made by Minister Jacoba that grand scale post-brooks towers controls, starting March 1, will be held is reason for the St. Maarten Bar Association to express its serious concerns, the Secretary of the St. Maarten Bar Association, Attorney at Law Mr. Remco M. Stomp stated.
Only recently the Bar has learned that in a period of at least 8 months holding cells for undocumented persons should be realized, at the moment St. Maarten does not have separate holding cells for the group mentioned. People who are found without papers must share their cells with criminal suspects of all categories. The only holding cell capacity on St. Maarten is to be found in Philipsburg at the police station.
Criminal suspects and undocumented persons are cramped in small cells where they sleep either on the concrete floor or on unhygienic thin mattresses. There is no natural light and rodents and cockroaches are frequent guests. In addition some detainees burn toilet paper to create smoke in order to scare away the mosquito's, creating a very unhealthy environment for the people that are held in those cells as well as police personnel that is expected to keep an eye out for their well being, Stomp said. In short the cells are not fit for any human being. The above mentioned is no news and the St. Maarten Bar has expressed its concerns many times. Several judges have ruled in very clear terms about this unlawful situation.
The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT)(The Secretariat of the CPT forms part of the Council of Europe's Directorate General of Human Rights also became aware of the situation on St. Maarten.
It was only in 2002 that a CPT committee visited the police cells of Philipsburg St. Maarten for the first time and reported:

"Each cell measured some 10 m2 and, in principle, was designed for single occupancy. Despite this, up to four detainees were being accommodated per cell. The cells were equipped with a concrete platform and a semi-partitioned lavatory and shower. However, many sanitary annexes were in an advanced state of dilapidation; toilet-flush and water supply for the showers did not work properly and buckets had to be used. Moreover, none of the cells was equipped with mattresses or bedding or any piece of furniture, and detainees had to sleep on the concrete platform or on the floor, using some clothes to protect them from the cold at night. Further, the cells had no access to natural light and artificial light was weak. Ventilation in the cell complex was also poor; a fetid smell emanating from the toilets permeated the whole detention area. In addition, the cells were filthy and full of rubbish; as a consequence, small rodents were said to be found in the cell complex at night. The cells were not equipped with call bells and staff was not continuously present within the cell complex. This being said, a police officer entered the cell area at least every hour (a fact registered in the log book). No activities whatsoever were offered to the detainees on remand or the illegal aliens. Access to the existing semi-outdoor exercise yard (70 m²) was only granted when the cleaning team was working once a week in the cell area."
In their letter of 11 July 2002, in response to the immediate observation, the Netherlands Antilles authorities informed the Committee that the renovation activities planned for Philipsburg Central Police Station and scheduled to last approximately eight weeks were taking place and that police detainees were in the meantime being held in Pointe Blanche Prison. Furthermore, they indicated that measures would be taken after the renovation of the cell complex to comply with the above recommendations"

Five years later, in June 2007, a CPT commission visited the local police cells once again, only to find that things got even worse.
In March of last year Secretary of State Anke Bijleveld reported to the Second Camber of the Netherlands that the situation is very worrying.
Yet Minister Jacoba seems to be ready to conduct great scale operations against undocumented people on St. Maarten. Meanwhile no new cells have been constructed. Particularly at a time that the few hard working police and VKS personnel St. Maarten has are working overtime to put a halt to the ever increasing crime on our island, the planning seems awkward. Flying in temporary assistance from Curacao may result in the arrest of more individuals however the question remains where they are going to be held. For one has to keep them in humane conditions providing them with food and shelter and last but not least guaranteeing their legal right to an attorney. The impression is sometimes given that only criminal suspects have right to an attorney. The Bar wants to make clear to the public that everyone who is being detained by the authorities has the right to consult an attorney, provided (and paid) by the State if needed.
Another reason the Bar is concerned, is with regards to the population of Haitian descent on St. Maarten. At a time that our community is engaged in an unprecedented effort to collect money and goods for the disaster struck people in Haiti chances are that a good part of the people that are going to be held after March 1 will be of Haitian descent. Is the minister going to send them back to a country that lies in ruins? President Obama has just declared a stop to the deportation of Haitians that will last for many months to come.
Controls will be most likely be conducted in the form of traffic controls and nighttime raids on various establishments know for their immigrant clientele, causing additional traffic jams and people literally fleeing up the hills of St. Maarten. More importantly great scale operations on an island of which the population consist for the greater part out of immigrants will create an atmosphere of fear.
The Bar understands the need for immigration management but it has to be done in a human and lawful manner for which one has to prepare properly. Organizing a quick general pardon for which many do not qualify (and if qualified do not have the means to pay for their license), followed by massive raids is certainly not the answer to manage illegal immigration. Proper functioning institutions with well trained (and paid) civil servants and management in combination with basic but reasonable holding facilities are needed to deal with immigration in a civil manner. Harsh measures may yield some popular votes on the short term but will lose all credibility when the efforts end up in chaos and (human) suffering.

The third and last winner of Island Water World's Online Game prize of a dinghy-outboard combo, worth US $ 3200, is airline pilot Hervé "RV" Nizard, residing on Dominica.
Over the last three years, Hervé, a born Frenchman, has been developing an Eco Resort in La Plaine, on the East Coast of Dominica (www.citruscreekplantation.com). His strong commitment to sustainable development is further outlined by his Alternative Energy Company 'Sustainable Earth' which is serving the Caribbean (www.sustainableearth.dm).
Before coming to Dominica, Hervé sailed his catamaran, a Lagoon 380, for two years with his family up and down the Caribbean island chain. Previously Hervé lived for 17 years in Guadeloupe where he still owns Air Tropical.
From November until the end of January every online shopper at Island Water World's new e-commerce website – www.islandwaterworld.com – was eligible to win a Walker Bay Air Floor Hypalon AF240 Dinghy and a Mercury-5HP-outboard Combo. The game ended in January but Island Water World's website features daily great give-aways and super online specials!
Previous winners were Vassil Kurtev from Bulgaria, currently visiting St. Maarten and Russell Morton, alias Sprout, from Antigua.

CAY BAY—The GEBE Power Plant experienced a power shortage on Wednesday morning due to an engine tripping at approximately 8:40 a.m. GEBE technicians struggled to maintain the electricity supply to the community after one of the new generators, Diesel Engine #18, tripped due to low fuel pressure. The disturbance to the grid caused Diesel Engine #16 to fall off line as well which resulted in a loss of some 20 MW causing outages in many districts. GEBE technicians worked diligently to restart the engines as soon as possible to restore electricity to the community.
In addition Diesel Engine #7 developed a fuel leak and had to be shut down immediately in order to prevent a fire from breaking out on the engine. This is the same engine that caught fire in July 2008, and was out of commission for close to one year for repairs and a major overhaul. Electricity was restored at approximately 1:35 p.m.
Later in the day Engines #8 and #10 fell offline, adding to the existing problems, causing another shortage of 7MW which affected the St. Peters, Oysterpond and Belvedere-Dutch Quarter areas. Electricity was restored after approximately 20 minutes.
Several short outages have occurred over the past two weeks as GEBE technicians continue to run the two new 11.3 MW generators at full capacity in order to fully test the performance of the engines during the warranty period. Running the new engines at their full capacity is part of the routine performance testing of new generators.
GEBE would like to apologize for the inconvenience to the community.

Philipsburg/ Marigot:---Management of Caribserve internet provider has sent an email warning their clients about recent scams and or hoax emails. The email which was sent on Thursday to all Caribserve clients reads. "We were recently made aware of several Email SCAMS/HOAXES that are spoofing the sender's identity to appear as though the emails were sent to you by CaribServe.NET.

These HOAX/SCAM emails often ask you to provide your personal information and/or CaribServe.NET account credentials via email or by means of visiting a random website. Some of these hoaxes claim that we (CaribServe.NET) suffered a database issue and need to restore your account information but we do not have that info on file while others ask for the same information for an "upcoming mail/authentication system upgrade", etc.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AFOREMENTIONED EMAILS WERE NOT SENT BY CaribServe.NET!

FACT IS, if you were able to download the suspect email from our mail server then you should take note that CaribServe.NET DOES NOT HAVE AN ISSUE WITH YOUR ACCOUNT AND/OR CREDENTIALS as you were able to access your mailbox on our server with the very same credentials you were using all along and the very same credentials the HOAX/SCAM email claims we do not have!

Moreover, although we sometimes do send out important information to you via email, WE WILL NEVER REQUEST YOU TO SEND US IMPORTANT AND PERSONAL INFORMATION, SUCH AS YOUR ACCOUNT INFORMATION, DATE OF BIRTH, ACCOUNT PASSWORDS, ETC. VIA EMAIL, PHONE OR ANY OTHER METHOD. ANY TRANSACTIONS HAVING TO DO WITH PERSONAL OR ACCOUNT-RELATED INFORMATION REQUIRES A PERSONAL VISIT TO ONE OF OUR OFFICE(S) OR AGENT(S) BY THE ACCOUNT HOLDER WITH A VALID PICTURE ID.

PLEASE DO NOT PROVIDE ANY CARIBSERVE.NET ACCOUNT-RELATED INFO TO ANYONE ASKING FOR SUCH INFORMATION BY EMAIL, MAIL, PHONE OR IN PERSON!

Please contact our office at +(599) 542-4233 if you replied to any of the HOAX/SCAM emails with your account info. The most we will be able to do is to change your password for your account so the unwanted parties cannot access your emails, etc. We will not however be able to provide you with the new password over the phone or via email as we have no way of virtually identifying your true identity. In order to collect your new password, you (original account holder) would need to visit one of our office(s) or agent(s) with a valid picture id.

If you are unsure about whether an email you received is indeed from CaribServe.NET, please feel free to call our technical support department via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at (599) 542-4233 before taking any further actions.

Grand Case---Construction workers of Kapro Construction are continuing with industrial actions which begun on Thursday. Workers on the site on Friday said they are suffering and management of Kapro is not willing to attend to their grievances. The construction workers said they are not paid on time and neither are they paid accurately for their overtime work.
One of the workers said they also have improper tools to work with and in many cases they do not get their materials on time to proceed with the job.
The workers said when they contact management they are falsely accused by management. Another worker said they do get paid but mostly late. He said so far they have not received their pay checks for the month of January even though they are supposed to be paid by the 5th of month.

The employee said normally they are paid by wire transfer but when management realized the workers were going on strike they called some of the workers to the office on Thursday and offered them a check if they were willing to continue working. The man said some of them even checked their accounts on Friday and still their January salary was not paid. He said management does not want to resolve the situation since this has been going on a for a long period of time. Another worker said the company would even go as far as deducting monies from their salaries for materials and that does not belong to their company. Some of the workers said they are even verbally abused by one of the bosses.

These people do not have any respect for the workers and their families or personal lives. Another worker said he was asked to go back on the roofs at 4pm earlier this week, the time he was leaving work and because he refused the next day he was suspended from work. The worker said even though management removed his time card and told him he was suspended he is reporting to work.
The workers said they are receiving warning letters constantly. One worker said he was given a warning letter when he stayed home to attend to family matters regarding the Haiti earthquake tragedy. The worker said 75% of the workers on the site are Haitians and to date management never expressed any form of condolences or sympathy to their Haitian workers. Instead those that stayed home for a day or two to attend to their family matters were given warning letters. The worker said the Haitians that are working for Kapro are humans and they should be treated as humans, most of them have lost close relatives during the January 12 earthquake. Another worker said the workers have to rush to the bushes if they need to ease themselves since management of Kapro did not provide bathroom facilities for their workers. "We go into the bushes and by the pond to ease ourselves. At one time government sent inspectors to check on the insanitary conditions of human filth next to the ponds."
They said most of the workers are asked to bring along their personal tools to work for the company and if any of the company's tools got damaged while working management would deduct monies from their salaries for the damaged tools. He said if the workers want to see management they are compelled to make appointments and they would only get the appointment two months later. Their objective during these industrial action is to get rid of one of the coordinators of the project whom they said are oppressing the workers.
Efforts made to obtain a comment from management were futile on Friday. Management said they were not willing to make a comment.
Union representative Rudy Hyman said the labour department on the French side is aware of the current problems faced by the workers. Hyman said the labour inspectors are aware of the current situation however; they are not able to intervene at this time. Hyman said the strike will continue on Monday. He said the union has 12 points to discuss with management and unless these people get around the table to discuss the concerns of the workers, the strike will not end.

Philipsburg:---What a prophetic statement. What a way to "bring home" 10-10-10. The "we" referred to here must be the party of the Senator, the National Alliance, not we, the people of Sint Maarten. Says Island Council lady Sarah Wescot Williams.
This statement by the Senator "that we are not ready", was made in the context of the draft law to the change the Islands Regulation Netherlands Antilles as proposed by Minister Roland Duncan of the National Alliance. On the basis of this draft law, the leader and the members of the NA have been insistently announcing that elections for a new island council will be held in June 2010.
The draft law was explained by the NA as being necessary to expand the Executive Council with 2 members to assist with the added responsibilities which the island will receive from the Central Government.
These responsibilities can be transferred to the islands on the basis of another law passed by Parliament recently. CAN BE TRANSFERRED!
The NA is right in its assessment that they are not ready. How could they be?
Which tasks have been transferred to the island government thus far?
Without this transfer, what are these additional Commissioners supposed to do, shadow the respective Ministers, while costing the tax payers of Sint Maarten more in salaries, staff, vehicles etc. for Commissioners? Or is this move to spread the existing portfolios and conceal the weaknesses of the present members of the Executive Council?
Now that the National Alliance is getting cold feet as far as the draft law to change the Islands Regulation is concerned, we hear Senator Pantophlet make a case out of the spelling of "meantime" and "in the mean time"?
And that "Sint Maarten should not be shafted in the process"? Explain that one, please. Explain to the people of Sint Maarten how Minister Duncan can draft a law that according to Senator Pantophlet is not in the interest of Sint Maarten.
What truly baffles us is how all of this is accepted at face value and even more so, put under the caption of the Senator's responsibility as a Parliamentarian.
This law was drafted by the Central Government, endorsed by the National Alliance, signed by Minister Roland Duncan? Who is shafting who?
What has caused this turn-around by the National Alliance? Pressure from within?
The National Alliance went on this "We are not ready" campaign with the expectation that the Dutch Government and the Antillean government would pity us and rush to the rescue. The result?
The Dutch and Antillean governments told the National Alliance in no uncertain terms to : "Stop the whining and finger pointing and show what you (Sint Maarten) intend to do". How sad.
Since we have practically given up on hearing anything from the Executive Council when it comes to essential and detrimental issues for Sint Maarten, we pose the following questions publicly:
Who drafted this law that according to Senator Pantophlet could potentially shaft Sint Maarten?
Are these only feeble attempts to make it seem as if the National Alliance has issues with its Minister, Mr. Duncan?
What is the Executive Council's formal response to this draft law? Were they even consulted?
For the record, this draft law as proposed by Minister Duncan allows the following:

1. Dissolve the island council of Sint Maarten prematurely and call early elections after the Constitution for Country Sint Maarten is approved by the Island Council by a simple majority.
2. New election for a 15-member island council
3. Appointment of 2 additional commissioners
4. A dualistic system of government (commissioners can no longer be members of the island council or vice versa).
5. That the elected 15 members of the island council will become the members of the Parliament for Country Sint Maarten.

Former member of the St. Maarten Academy Interact Club (Youth Club of Rotary ages 14-18) Tania Police is the recipient of a pair of new glasses from the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. Ms. Police who is a temp at A&A Supply broke her glasses at a sports activity. Without glasses her vision is severely affected and so Mrs. J. Brown of A&A Supply contacted a Rotarian from the St. Maarten Rotary Club to inquire about the possibility of this community service club assisting with the replacement of the much needed prescription glasses. Together with St. Maarten Optical the necessary arrangement were made and the new glasses were obtained and presented.
The Rotary Club is pleased to have been of service and continues in both big and small ways to serve the community of St. Maarten and beyond.

Willemstad:---On February 12th 35 people from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) in Curacao went out into the community to share the perfect Valentine's Day gift for those in need. Two projects encompassing 230 volunteer hours and 2017 NAF worth of supplies and materials were going on simultaneously on this special day.
The first location was in Fuik where a large group gathered to completely paint the roof of the Funashon Amigunan di Cristo (Fuik Community Center). This long-standing center offers a vital after-school tutoring program for many children in Fuik as well as AWANA club on Sundays. It was the talk of the neighborhood as many neighbors reported, "The Center now has a new roof." The owners Cesar and Emma Eman could not be happier. Emma Eman said, "My heart jumped for joy when I saw the bright blue roof from blocks away."
The second location was at the Jan Doret Ball field where a smaller group gathered to help Coach Charlton Cijntje to clean up the park, work on the pitcher's mound, and paint the bathroom house and snack bar as he prepared for an upcoming tournament. Also, USFOL staff provided a Bobcat backhoe to make light work of building another access bridge to the field. Coach Cijntje coaches a team in which more than 125 teenagers are involved from the surrounding community. Coach Cijntje also leads the national Curacao World Series Little League team every year to Williamsport, PA for the championship series. Coach Cijntje was pleased by the progress that was made and the assistance given by the USFOL to provide his team a suitable place to practice and play baseball.

Philipsburg:--- The executive council of St. Maarten definitely has a lot to chew on as they study yet another report delivered to them from the accounting agency SOAB. The SOAB delivered an extensive report on the island labour and social welfare department to the executive council on January 29, 2010. The executive council already have the report on ROB (Public Works) and to date the executive council neither the commissioner responsible for ROB has not acted on that report. The latter was sent to the Attorney General as well as the prosecutor's office by the Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards.
According to information, reaching SMN News a committee has been established by the executive council to study the report. The source said the committee members are from the department of Labour and Social Welfare and they were scheduled to meet with the commissioner of labour last week.
SMN News learnt that Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson has urged the executive council on Tuesday during their weekly meetings that this report should be considered as ammunition to remove the interim head of Island labour and Social Welfare Rafi Boasman since it is clear that Boasman and his staff did not fully follow the law when processing working permits. However, the executive council it is understood will not take hasty decisions since they have to follow the law protecting the civil core.
The investigators from SOAB indicated that their findings is not a fraudulent report, however they highlighted a number of discrepancies at the department. According to the SOAB basic administrative procedures were not adhered to and the in their view the former executive council over the past years left room for corruption within the department. One of the main contentions of the investigators is that those at Island labour did not follow the law and the legal time frame to process working permits, government medical cards for the unemployed and onderstand (welfare).
According to the labour regulations working permits must be processed within a six-week period however, there are applications that are pending over a year. Another slap by the SOAB is that there is no human resource bank at the island labour department that would eliminate the influx of foreign labour. Businesses and the island government do not have a human resource bank that would outline the available skills and manpower when there are vacancies in the workforce. SOAB also indicated that the interim manager would take up certain files and work on them personally, all of which are in contradiction of the law. They said the wrong calculations were used for the processing of social assistance, according to SOAB the department interpreted the laws incorrectly.
SMN News also learnt that the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba already sent a letter the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten informing him that St. Maarten needs to follow the labor regulation when processing work permits.
SOAB investigated every department that falls under the Island Labour and Social Welfare. In each case they highlighted areas where documents were either missing or not being supplied when applications were being processed. Most of the applicants were also forced to use other agencies to process their documents to avoid administrative bureaucracy.
Full contents of the report will be published on SMN News later this week. We urge our readers both English and Dutch to keep checking on this website for further details on the report.

Philipsburg:---The Rotary Club of St. Maarten paid a surprise visit to "No Kidding with our kids Foundation" also known as ASA. The Club has started a community service project, which involves the distribution of non-perishable goods to organizations on the island that have good use for these items. On this occasion, director Merlyn Schaminee with just a few minutes notice, a gathered several children of the after school activity to receive 13 cases of chocolate milk and 3 cases of juice which were made available through the generosity of Prime Distributors. Present to make the presentation were the Rotary Club community director Bobby Keough, President Pierre Decelles, Secretary Kenny Idnani and member Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
After the presentation members of the club were given a tour of the facility and were treated to an opportunity to observe the children baking cakes to raise funds for the victims in Haiti. Other activities ongoing at the Sucker Garden afternoon school were homework assistance, reading, handicraft, agriculture, etc.
The Rotary Club of St. Maarten will continue this project for as long as the goods are made available. Well deserving organizations can look forward to a call as the next beneficiary in this Rotary project.

Philipsburg: --- Customs on St. Maarten managed to arrest a man from Wakenaam Guyana with five kilos of cocaine on Monday.
Head of customs Anthony Doran in a press release said his vigilant colleagues conducting controls at the Airport detained a male passenger with the initials J.A.R born in Wakenaam, Guyana. The suspect arrived at Princess Juliana International Airport on the Caribbean Airlines flight with the route Guyana-SXM-SXM-Jamaica. J.A.R had a suitcase in his possession that resulted to have false sides, the sides where filled with a substance that resembled cocaine.

Doran said after testing the white substance that was found hidden in the sides of the suitcase, it was proven to be cocaine. The 5 kilo's of cocaine was confiscated and the passenger was arrested pending further investigation.

Due to ongoing investigation no further information can be released to the media, the suspect is going through a series of interrogations. Customs are currently doing an in depth investigation as to the intended destination of the drugs. Guyana-St. Maarten is an unusual route for smugglers, customs want to know if the drugs were intended for St. Maarten, the European Continent or the United States Doran said.

GREAT BAY:--- Representatives of the Sint Maarten Student Organization S4 in Holland, namely Director Marva Richardson and Student Assistant/Mentor Elton Villereal, paid a courtesy call on Governor Franklyn Richards during the latter part of the week.

...

Philipsburg: ---Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said that there would be no extension of Brooks Tower Accord process. Jacoba said for the sake of clarity she wants to emphasize that she would not be prolonging the registration of the Brooks tower project. She said based on a request of the Island Government of St. Maarten a decision has been taken for all undocumented persons who entered the Netherlands Antilles prior to 2001 and believe that their case is special now have the opportunity to deliver a letter along with the required documents to the work group. The applicant must explain their case in the letter and why their case. These applicants have until February 28 2010. The work will then take a decision on the petitioner's application for a temporary Brooks Tower Permit.
Persons interested in submitting the letter and their documents must send their request to
Sint Maarten: By Mrs D.Roosberg, E Camille Richardson Street, and Police Station Phillipsburg
BES islands Bonaire, St Eustatuis, and Saba: at the respective department of civil, --- Curacao: Department of Justice.

PHILIPSBURG—GEBE's Company Newsletter, "THE GRID", is now available online to anyone who is interested in learning more about GEBE. THE GRID includes information concerning the production and distribution of energy, the water distribution, improvements within the company, community programs, workers accomplishments, environmental programs, and health tips.
The aim of THE GRID is to increase awareness about the projects the company is working on, the processes behind the scenes that make electricity and water possible, as well as renewable energy articles, department profiles, and other activities affiliated with GEBE.
In the latest edition you will find articles concerning the new diesel generators, the company's goal to become ISO 9000 certifiable and how that helps improve GEBE's processes and procedures, the opportunities and challenges of solar energy and much more.
THE GRID is available on the GEBE website (www.nvgebe.com/grid).

Philipsburg: --- The prosecutor's office is calling on the general public to provide them with more information so that can solve the brutal murder of Christian Lloyd. Prosecutor Rienk Mud in a press release said that on Monday January 25th Lloyd was found dead in his house on Watermelon Road #4. He said Lloyd died from a fatal head injury.

Mud said the investigation is currently conducted by the detectives of the KPSSS and KPC in cooperation with the RST. Persons with information are urged to contact the RST at their email address or telephone numbers. The RST can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone 5813720 or simply call the tip line 9300

Mud said in the course of the investigation several people have been questioned by the investigation team. This has led to several rumors about suspects being arrested. Mud said that both the police and his office want to stress that no arrests have been made in the case so far. However, the investigating team is urging the general public to come forward and help them solve the case. The team of detectives wants some specific questions answered and as such they have sent out a list of questions.

(1) The team wants to know who was the last person that spoke to Christian Lloyd on Saturday January 23 or Sunday January 24th?
(2) Who saw when he parked his car in the front of his house and who had an appointment with him on either Saturday January 23 or Sunday January 24?
(3) They also want to know if anyone knows of someone that had an appointment with Lloyd on those two days.
(4) The investigating team also wants to know who was in contact with Lloyd by phone on Saturday and Sunday January 23 and 24 respectively.
(5) They are also calling on anyone who knows of somebody that might be in contact with Lloyd on those two days either by phone or in person.
(6) The detectives also want to know who if anyone saw anything out of the ordinary near or around Lloyd's house in the days prior to them finding his body which is between Saturday January 23 to Monday January 24?
(7) The officers who are bent on solving this case is now asking members of the public to provide any and all types of information they might have, perhaps you noticed something strange in his behavior in the days prior to his death.

Philipsburg:--- Four of the five advisors that were recruited from the Netherlands for the Police force on St. Maarten are currently on St. Maarten on their orientation visit. For the past week the advisors met with the police management team, the unions representing the police. They also toured the island and met with other justice departments in an effort to familiarize themselves with their counterparts.
A press release from the management team of the police department states that these advisors would not be taking up any positions in management however, they would be working under the directives of the local chief of police for a duration of three years.
The advisors along with a designated local counterpart will assist the local police force with the implementation of the new organization plan for country St. Maarten.
The police management believes that St. Maarten deserves a well functioning police department and therefore supports all efforts to improve the quality of the department in the broadest sense.

Following the preparation and finalization of the structure and the organization plan for the St. Maarten Police Force, a selection process for implementation advisors took place in the in December 2009 in the Netherlands.
Based on their expertise and qualifications four advisers have been selected by members of the police management team. Mr. Huib Zwaan will be assigned to the Detective Department, Arie Broere to the General Uniformed Division, Mr. Nico Remkes to the Human Resource Department and Ron de Milde as coach/change manager. The advisors will not occupy any managerial position.

AIRPORT:--- Two young employees within WINAIR have been recognized for what the company's Managing Director have dubbed as their sterling, significant and service beyond the call of duty.

Charlesea Joseph and Roland Brison were stunned when they were announced by Managing Director of Winair Edwin Hodge as recipients of the two special awards. He told the packed gathering that the service and contributions rendered during 2009 by both Joseph and Brison cannot go unnoticed thus he saw it fit to honour them. As a sign of continued demonstration of the company's recognition and value for the contributions made by the two employees during last year they were rewarded with a financial token.

Addressing the employees, Hodge told those in attendance that he must recognize two special young people who he said can be viewed as role models to young people within Winair and in the Caribbean. "The services and performance of Miss Charlesea Joseph and Mr. Roland Brison are enormous, not that I am not remembering others who have contributed significantly. I am very grateful and thankful for the overall contributions of all of our employees as it would have been truly unfair of me to not identify them," he said.

Hodge urged fellow employees to emulate the ethics and work spirits of Joseph and Brison noting that employees like them will certainly aid in boosting the overall performance of the airline. He reminded all that giving of their best will certainly help in keeping the doors of Winair open while ensuring that the planes are kept in the skies. "I would like to encourage each of you to follow suit the example set by both Joseph and Brison in executing your duties as I am very confident that with more employees like them we will certainly remain a force to be reckon with," he said.

Admitting that they were both stunned both Joseph and Brison expressed thanks and gratitude to the Managing Director for the awards noting that it serves to motivate them more. Joseph who has not been with the airline for a long period said that she is very excited and elated noting that she enjoys working with the team and will continue to give of her best as she seeks to develop her self professionally. She noted that while Winair is her first place of employment it has been a teaching ground for her declaring that she has learnt a lot.

Brisons pointed out that working with Winair continues to be a joy for him noting that it's easy to give your best when you are working with employees who are more than just colleagues but sees each other as family members. He stressed that he will continue to give his best noting that he would like to see other employees give of their best also.

Charlesea Joseph is Customer service originally and she is now working as an assistant to some of Winair's managers. Meanwhile, Rolando Brison is Assistant to the Chief Pilot, but he is used for several other items.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Inspectorate Department of Public Health, Social Welfare and Labor is intensifying their controls with regards to the labeling of food products.

The managers and owners of all Supermarkets, Grocery stores, Bakeries, Distributors and any other food outlets, should be aware of the law, stipulated as: Landsbesluit, Houdende Algemene Maatregelen, of the 18th of January 2005, Article 3 (1 a, f and j) of the Commodities Act, P.B. 1997 Nr. 334.

According to the department, the law states that all food products must have an expiration date and be labeled correctly. That includes all meat, dairy and seafood produce.

Products can become unsafe for human consumption very quickly, if not handled and dated correctly. After assessing the risk related to this activity, the Inspectorate Department of Public Health, Social Welfare and Labor have given labeling the highest priority of controls for 2010.

The managers and owners are advised to pay attention to the following;

• All Chilled, Fresh and Frozen meats, poultry, fish and their products when packed and displayed for sale MUST have an expiration date.
• All goods for sale MUST have a proper label.
• All goods for sale MUST have labels indicating their ingredients printed on them.
• Breads and pastries from local bakeries MUST have labels indicating, the bakery at which they were produced, the type of bakery products e.g. whole wheat bread, whole wheat salt free bread, etc., and the date on which the item was produced.

If you are not in compliance with the above mentioned laws, corrective measures will be taken, starting with the confiscation of goods.

The measure goes into effect February 10, 2010.

 

Philipsburg:--- With the ongoing investigation at the section ROB and a damning report by the SOAB regarding the discrepancies that are equivalent to corruption at the ROB (Public Works Department). SMN News has learnt that the committee that is currently investigating the department for Commissioner Theo Heyliger has interrogated the head of Inspections Henry Ellis and the owner of Olzina NV Samir Andreos on Friday last week. According to information reaching SMN News is that the interrogation of Ellis was done in the presence of Andreos who according to our sources was putting pressure on Ellis for him not to tell the truth.
SMN News also learnt that the head of domain affairs Marieke Van Zadelhof is chairing the committee even though the SOAB suggested in their report that an investigation be conducted in domain affairs department. Also on the committee is Eunicio Martina from legal affairs. Miguel de Weever from Economic Affairs, Ron Daal from Independent Consulting Engineers and David Morison an architect. Currently several questions are being posed towards the make up of the committee regarding two members who are not civil servants. It is mandatory that all committee members who are conducting investigations for government should be civil servants while outsiders can serve as advisors or experts to the committee.
In the preliminary and final report of the SOAB it states that although they have not carried out a detail control of the domain affairs department it has been brought forward in the interviews that there are shortcomings in that department. The investigators noticed that persons who put in a recent request for domain land, including some workers of the Sector ROB, received domain land before persons who requested domain land long before them. One of the workers who received domain land is Marieke Van Zandelhof head of domain affairs. Zandelhof also created the parcel of land she now occupies in the Pointe Blanche area, land which was not designated as domain land.

SMN News learnt that the committee wants Ellis to tell them why he did not issue a building stop to Olzina N.V in 2008 since there was no building permit in place for the buildings situated in Cay Hill. According to documents provided to SMN News it is clear that Ellis wanted to issue a building stop but the sector director of ROB Joseph Dollison refused to sign the document.
The building stop which is published below was made up on July 16th 2008 bearing the signature of Henry Ellis but not that of Dollison. Ellis wrote that on July 14th 2008 the inspector's service of the island territory of St. Maarten observed that construction activities were taking place at Oryx drive Cay Hill and that the contractors were busy building without a building permit, which is not in accordance of the building ordinance. Therefore the owner, caretaker or lessee of the premises must stop construction immediately.
SMN News also managed to recover a second building stop for the same company which was made out on October 27th 2008, this time ordering the owner of Olzina to stop construction since his workers were working without the necessary safety equipments.

SMN News also got a circular which has several questions pertaining to Ellis's sudden move from the head of inspections to the office of former commissioner Roy Marlin in December 2008. The writer of the circular wants to know of Ellis's removal has the same motives as that of Guy Gumbs who recently resigned from his position as head of permits. Sources say that Ellis was under severe pressure from Dollison. The circular states that Ellis left for vacation in November 2008 and when he returned in December 2008 he learnt that he was removed as head of inspections to Marlin's office. The question posed by the writer is if Ellis moved because of pressure or is it because of the famous Olzina permit that everyone working at ROB refused to sign including former VROM head Delano Richardson.

It is further understood that the former head of VROM Delano Richardson faced the same kind of pressure Gumbs and Ellis faced with Dollison when it comes to permits for certain investors. SMN News also learnt that Gumbs was also under pressure and he sent at least five memos to Dollison telling him that he would not sign permits for people who were not complying with the building codes on St. Maarten. SMN News also learnt that Gumbs resigned because of the constant pressure from Dollison.

Dawn Beach: --- A 43 year old man identified as Navindranauth "Navin" Saywak was found hanging from a tree in Dawn Beach early Friday morning, Saywak committed suicide by hanging himself on a grape tree in the garden area of the housing complex where he lives. A maintenance worker for the property where Saywak lives said he noticed the body hanging from the tree while he was cleaning the swimming pool area. The man said Saywak was hanging from a rope which was tied to a grape tree in the garden area of the residence. He said when he saw the body of the man he recognized as Navin he immediately informed the property owner.
Police as well as the coroners on the scene struggled to remove the body from the location due to the steepness of the steps leading to the beach side of the property.

Relatives and friends of Navin said he was suffering from severe depression. It is further understood that is the second time Saywah fell ill and he just returned to the island on Sunday from Canada where he went for treatment. "When I saw Navin on Sunday he told me he was not sleeping", said one of his cousins. "Navin has been ill for sometime now but he still was working until December last year. Due to his illness Navin resigned." The cousin explained.

SMN News understands that the young man was an employee of Paradise and True Value Car rental. SMN News also understands that Saywak was also involved in another reputable business but somehow he was suffering from depression. On scene was his business partner who was obviously devastated by the sudden loss of his best friend and business partner.
Relatives of the now deceased man said they spoke to him on Thursday morning and they felt he was alright. Another relative told this reporter that he had intended to visit Navin Thursday night but he finished working late and did not make it to his relative's house. On the scene there were several persons who either worked or knew Saywak. Many of them in tears saying they never thought Saywak would take his own life. They said Saywak was a very kind and generous man and an exceptionally quiet person who lives alone.

Prosecutor Hans Mos said after the investigation was conducted by police it was determined that the victim committed suicide.

Philipsburg/Willemstad:--- Police on St. Maarten arrested a man identified as G.K (Gregory Rogelio Koeiman) a former police officer who is wanted in Curacao for an ongoing murder investigation. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said a musician identified as Gabriel Santos Castillo was shot to death on Tuesday night at Hanchi Dipopogido.
Henson said the suspect then boarded a flight and fled to St. Maarten on Wednesday. The police spokesman said police on Curacao requested the assistance from St. Maarten and the suspect was arrested just around 8pm on Wednesday night. Koeiman was convicted for taking bribes while in uniform on St. Maarten. In the meantime, the police on Curacao is also investigating a second shooting all of which took place during Curacao's 40th carnival.

Philipsburg:--- The couple that was arrested last Tuesday as suspects in the murder of Saliba Absalon (Haitian) was set free on Wednesday confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. The two suspects a male and female identified as B.B from Dominica and J.W from Jamaica spent eight days behind bars as the investigators interrogated them on the slaying of the Haitian man. Mos said the two did not go before the judge of instruction on Wednesday because his office decided there was not enough evidence against them for the killing of Saliba Absalon. Saliba Absalon was found dead in his Middle Region home on December 11.
Already two detectives who were working on the Absalon case were removed for unknown reasons. They are detective Carlton Philips and detective Norwin Villarreal. The police in collaboration with the RST are busy investigating five murders which occurred in recent months. Police are currently investigating the murder of David Eustace Priest, Eric Yuan Sam, Haresh Dayalani, Christian Lloyd, and Saliba Absalon.

Airport: --- Hundreds of passengers leaving and coming to St. Maarten were taken by surprise when airline agents, pilots and airport security informed them that a bomb threat was issued at Princess Juliana International Airport just about 6pm on Friday.
Fire fighters and other security agents were busy searching the Princess Juliana International Airport building, the aircrafts that were on the tarmac as well as the immediate surroundings for a bomb.
The airport was given clearance just about midnight on Friday after a thorough search of the entire facility was conducted. Normal operations are scheduled to resume on Saturday morning at 7am.

The all clear sign has been given by the emergency response team headed by Acting Governor Millicent De Weever with the support of Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran, Chief Public Prosecutor Hans Mos and Airport Director Eugene Holiday.

Law enforcement agencies have searched the Princess Juliana International Airport Terminal Building as well as airport grounds as a precautionary measure due to a security threat that came in at 17:47 Friday afternoon.

The result of the operation that started at 17.47 and concluded at 23.30 is that nothing was found that would pose a security threat.

Roads leading towards the international airport were open to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. On Saturday morning the airport will resume normal operations at 7.00am.

According to passengers that arrived on KLM from Holland and was on their way to Bonaire said they were already on the plane and it was about to take off when the pilot informed them that they have to get off the airplane and get outside of the airport as they received security threat.
One passenger identified only as Anna said while she understands that the airport has to take every threat seriously no one updated them about their departure flight for almost two hours. The woman said they were practically kicked out of the building and was told to wait outside for further information. Other passengers who were also scheduled to leave on KLM back to Amsterdam said they were also eager to know if their plane would finally leave. It was over two hours after the ordeal airline agents came outside and asked the passengers to take the various buses that would take them to nearby hotels. Several of the passengers said while the ordeal was more than an inconvenience they wished the airline agents could have acted faster to take them away from the parking area and roadside.

Passengers that were supposed to leave St. Maarten to Tortola via LIAT were the hardest hit by the security threat on Friday. Some passengers that came from Sweden with KLM and in transit on St. Maarten to Tortola were told that they were on their own since LIAT is not taking any responsibility for the inconvenience caused by the threat.
A couple who gave their names only as Charles said they were travelling for over 24 hours from Sweden and this is their first time to St. Maarten. The woman said that LIAT agents basically told them that they were on their own and they should find a taxi and look for a hotel to stay.
The entire airport and traffic leading to the airport was cordoned by police as the search for the bomb was underway when the LIAT agent told this reporter that the decision was taken by LIAT headquarters and there is nothing the St. Maarten agents could do for the in transit passengers. About ten passengers most of them holding their hand luggage was standing in a small group as the other passengers left the airport. No one gave those passengers any direction or assistance for more that an hour before someone decided to give them a lift towards Simpson Bay where they would look for a taxi.

Philipsburg:--- Traffic on Cannegietter Street backed up on Monday when a well known vagrant passed out in the middle of the road. The man as shown in this photograph was seen lying down motionless in the roadway next to GEBE. Several bystanders including a health care worker stood up looking at the man as drivers tried to swerve away from him.

The University of St. Martin (USM) Admissions Office is reminding all current applicants and those interested in applying to the University degree programs of the upcoming April 8 deadline. Students wishing to enroll in classes for June are required to complete applications by April 8. All applicants must submit a completed USM application form, $25.00 application fee, official high school transcripts, high school diploma and exam results, 2 passport pictures, affidavit of financial support, copy of passport, personal essay and proof of residency.
Some requirements may differ for students transferring into USM programs. Late fees will be levied after the April 8 deadline. Placement tests are scheduled for mid April. Applications are currently being accepted for the Associate of Arts degrees in Business and General Liberal Arts, Bachelor of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management, Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Bachelor of Arts in Business (one offered in conjunction with Mount Saint Vincent University and another with the University of the Virgin Islands). For more information please contact the University of St. Martin Admissions Office at Tel: 542-5171 Ext. 1008.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has sent a letter to the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards asking him to make sure the department of Labour and Social Affairs do its job when processing work permits under the Brooks Tower Accord.
Jacoba told SMN News that a large of amount of people who applied for the Brooks Tower permit category two will suffer comes March 1 since the island labour department is not working efficiently to process the working permits for persons who qualified for the category two permits.
Jacoba said when the guidelines of the Brooks Tower Agreement was drafted each island participated and St. Maarten is the only island who wanted the recipients of the category two permits to get their working permit before they are able to pick up the residency permit. She said in all the other islands such and Curacao, Saba, and Statia the applicants are asked to pay their processing fee and then they can pick up their Brooks Tower Residency permit. However, St. Maarten chose to do things differently Jacoba said because of the choices St. Maarten has made several people will stand to get hurt.
Jacoba said during the processing of the Brooks Tower her Ministry discovered a lot of discrepancies that is hindering the people from becoming legal residents. The Minister said while the Federal Government is responsible for residency permits there is nothing she can physically do for the labour permits since that department falls directly under the island territories. As such, she has chosen to advise the Lt. Governor of the problem the Brooks Tower workers are facing.
Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards could not be reached for a comment on Wednesday.

Marigot: --- The court of first instance has granted the request of the attorneys representing Pascal Morelle on Thursday as he appeared before the court for arresting four minors illegally. Batonniers Derussy and Nicolas asked the court to grant them a postponement since they have not received the process verbal on the case.
The lawyers said that they needed to have the necessary documents to prepare a proper defense for their client. The defense lawyers said they made a request to the prosecutor's office since February 11 2010 and to date they have not received the necessary documentation. Prosecutor Jacques Louvier objected to the request of the lawyers saying the case is rather simple. He said his intention was to finish this case on Thursday however, after a short deliberation the court decided to postpone the case until March 18.
Morelle in an invited comment said he is looking for justice and instead he is the one that is being punished. Morelle said his house was robbed and he did his own investigation and caught the culprits responsible for the break in. He said he took all four of the minor suspects to the gendarmerie hoping that justice would be served.
The courthouse was under high security on Thursday morning since several friends and other acquaintances of Morelle showed up at the courthouse in support of Morelle. Some of the supporters said that the four suspects that were released by the gendarmes have already committed other break ins to homes and businesses on the French side.

GREAT BAY:---- The members of the executive council met with the first cooperate governance council on Friday. Attending and chairing the meeting was Lt. Governor
Governor Franklyn Richards and Commissioners William Marlin, Xavier Blackman, Frans Richardson and Hyacinth Richardson. Commissioner Theodore Heyliger is presently off island.

The Board members are Louis Duzanson, a career civil servant, Minerva Monte-Vlaun, with a background in Business Economics, Maria van der Sluijs-Plantz, based in the Netherlands and owner of a company that focuses on compliance, Francis Carty, a businessman with over 40 years experience, and Agnes Gumbs, a professional accountant with 30 years experience.

All board members were very pleased to be there and honored for being selected. They all collectively agreed that no doubt they would do their best by providing objective advice to the Executive Council, whether solicited or not, as stipulated in the Good Governance code. Acknowledging as well the difficult tasks that lay ahead.

Commissioner Marlin indicated that it was a pleasure to have the group here and he was pleased and honored that they accepted the proposal to serve on the Corporate Governance Council. With the establishment of the council, St. Maarten can move forward in its development in this regard.

It was difficult to find candidates who would not pose a conflict of interest with their present functions because many work for government or for a government owned company, or some other related entity that may pose a conflict of interest if persons were chosen.

Nevertheless, Commissioner Marlin said, we found some outstanding candidates who have agreed and who can contribute greatly to this effort. All members have remarkable and professional qualifications. I congratulate you and I know that it won't be an easy road, but with your advice the decision making process will be more complete. Thanks again, and I wish you the very best.

It is said that the Corporate Governance Council in St. Maarten is the first in the Netherlands Antilles and probably in the Dutch Kingdom.

The Council members are all fully aware of the huge responsibility that they have assumed and the historic importance of achieving the objectives of the Corporate Governance Ordinance.
They commend the Island Government and Island Council of having taken the courageous step in striving for more discipline and transparency in accordance with international standards.
The Council members are also fully aware that there may be tensions in the future between the politicians and the council but they have all pledged their commitment to making the council a success.

By unanimous vote the council has elected Mr. Louis Duzanson as its chairman and Mrs. Maria Van der Sluijs-Plantz as vice- chairman.
The Council will be taking inventory of the relevant entities, the legacy issues and what will be required to ensure that all entities are "in good standing".

Mr. Louis Duzanson on behalf of the council accepts the responsibility for the tasks at hand, the challenges to be faced and expressed the confidence in the council member's commitment to make the changes that are needed.

Philipsburg: --- Members of the ST. MAARTEN UNITED MULTIPURPOSE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION (S.U.M.E.F.) told reporters on Friday that there are over 600 to 800 children who are supposed to be attending school but they are not attending school. Vice president of SUMEF Claire Elshot said most of these students could be found in the hilly areas of St. Maarten.
Elshot said there are cases where children are registered in schools but they simply do not attend school, she further explained that the undocumented schools on St. Maarten are housing close to 600 students and they are not receiving any subsidy from the island government.
Elshot said a research was conducted and a panel discussion is scheduled to be held this week where owners of the undocumented schools would know if they qualify for government subsidy.
Carmen Hodge director of the Starlight Foundation said they believe that government should use the undocumented schools rather than building more schools immediately. She felt re-opening Lionel Connor school was a bad idea because the undocumented schools have lost some of their students. "We are not receiving subsidy and the school fees that are paid by the parents is what runs the school. Government have taken away some of our students so we are hardly able to meet our over head expenses at the end of the month" Hodge said.

Elshot said if the government is serious in implementing compulsory education then they are going to make sure they crack down on parents. The schoolteacher said they are often faced with parents who would take their children in the middle of the school year on vacation. "There are times when some parents would pick up their children and leave and they would come back whenever they feel like. When this happens the child loses out." Elshot explained. Government has to make sure the school aged students does not travel during the semester. She said in Holland and other islands students who travel during the school year are stopped at the airport. Parents wishing to travel during the school year should have good reasons and must obtain permission from the department of education. Elshot said that is the only way parents would abide by the laws of the island.

MARIGOT—Three persons who were suspects in several armed robberies during the last quarter of 2009 were sentenced to serve prison time in Guadeloupe. The bandits were condemned for an armed robbery in Marigot on November 22. The oldest of the three suspects were sentenced to 4 and half years behind bars, of which 18 months are suspended, while the youngest was sentenced to 3 years with 18 months suspended. The third was given a two-year prison sentence with 12 months suspended.
The investigations also determined that the oldest suspect had stolen a cellular phone on July 27, and he also committed four other armed robberies. All four of the robberies took place in the Marigot area.

The investigation was conducted by detectives and the armed robbery unit the VAMA.
The team conducted an operation on Monday January 25 where the suspects were arrested. The oldest was arrest in Concordia he is 24 years old. While the other suspect is a 19 year old and the third 23 years old, the third suspect was also found with crack cocaine, and marijuana. The gendarmes also arrested the girlfriend of the first suspect after she rebelled and insulted the gendarmes. She is expected to appear in the juvenile court later this year.

Philipsburg: --- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba in a press release late Tuesday night said that she would like to make some clarification on an article we published regarding Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek. Minister Jacoba said after several discussions with Mr. Panneflek to reach to an accord regarding his position, an agreement was reached on October 7th, 2009. Said agreement, was formalized according to the normal procedures that Government requirement. All decisions related to Mr. Panneflek were taken together with him; on the same table we all sat and shared.
Panneflek was supposed to return to work at the Philipsburg Police Station on February 1 2010 when the agreement he had with former Minister of Justice David Dick ended. SMN News learnt that Panneflek was given an additional year to be at the disposition of the Island government even though he completed the project he was working on.
Members of ABVO and NAPB arrived on St. Maarten on Wednesday and they are scheduled to meet with Panneflek on Wednesday where they are going to discuss his current working situation. SMN News also learnt that Panneflek met with his legal representatives earlier this week and they would be reacting to the decision taken by the Minister.

Philipsburg: ---- The police arrest team transported a Jamaican national to the Princess Juliana International Airport on Wednesday confirmed Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said the US authorities requested the arrest of Mr. Hanson who is suspected drug trafficking. The public prosecutor said the suspect waived his rights to extradition and went to there voluntarily.

Philipsburg:---Gracita R. Arrindell, Founder of the Peridot Foundation stated; they are happy to announce the donation of 23 official NBA basket balls to the official Sint Maarten Basket Ball Association and its President Mr. Daniel Berry. The Foundation which caters to the eradication and awareness of domestic violence and violence in general in our society thought it fit to approach a close friend who is one of the owners of a well known NBA basket ball franchise in Charlotte and ask for the donation in the form of basket balls. This request was honored immediately in November last year. However the balls requested only reached Sint Maarten in its entirety last week due to the fact that they got lost in shipment to Sint Maarten during the Holidays"
Ten of the 23 balls were given to St. Maarten Youth Baketball Association confirmed Arrindell.

Gracita said; like many in our community Peridot Foundation shares the concerns about the increase of violence among our young people. Every opportunity the association get to positively impact young people, they will happily do so. There are many youngsters out there including other basket ball fans in higher age brackets that love the game and make use of every opportunity to play in their free time. But they need the active support of the community especially the business community to keep this favorite sports game accessible to the players and to the Association. The Peridot are also aware of the fact that the local basket ball association is facing financial hardship. This is regrettable and the situation should be rectified as soon as possible. "Our Foundation encourages the business sport minded community to step up to the plate and 'play ball' by assisting the Sint Maarten Basket Ball association to jump start its program again."

"We take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to the donors, in support of sports in general and specifically to Basket Ball on Sint Maarten. Peridot Foundation is looking forward and welcomes all future support to the sports in this regard. Let us keep our young people active in the sports and off the streets and 'Guard the loved ones You May Lose".

Great Bay--- Many modern masters made the artistic pilgrimage to Africa seeking rejuvenation, searching for a new way of "seeing". Picasso found it in the African masks and gave birth to cubism. Others, especially in the so-called "New World" drank from its wellspring to produce what is now referred to as "magical realism." Without placing him on the same pedestal, Mosera, has let the Africa he has been carrying within him emerge in a different way on his canvas.
In his new exhibition titled "Linkage", Mosera returns to a familiar space, a well-known terrain to him, where he feels at home, and where his work acquires the dimension of a "seer" who knows his medium.
Seeing is an essential aspect of the plastic arts. However, what the inner eyes see may make the naked eyes seem blind. The true artist sees with his inner eyes, where the real and the surreal are sometimes wedded through "magic"; where "reality" is not what is real, but what you make real, and hence does not have to conform to existential facts.
In "Linkage", which opens Thursday, February 11, 2010 at the Tropisme Gallery in Grand Case, Mosera's works are shown alongside a number of "ancient" African sculptures in the private collection of art connoisseur, J.C. Huet. The combination is an invitation to compare Mosera's paintings with these sculptures from the Motherland.
It is a tantalizing proposition given the fact that we are being asked to compare apples and oranges. But the closer we look, the clearer we see what Mosera has been trying to make us see for a long while through his inner eyes: that as descendants of Africans in the New World, Africa has never left us.
The African mask represents a combination of spiritual, cultural, ceremonial and traditional values of a people who treasured communal life. How are these values reflected in Mosera's paintings? The answer can be found on the walls of the Tropisme Gallery in Grand Case.
Mosera, who donated his painting, "Judas Kiss", sold recently for some Naf. 7,000.00 in an exhibition in Curacao that raised about Naf. 119,000 in aid of the victims of the Haitian earthquake, last showed his works here in December 2008. He, however, took part in an exhibition held in November 2009 to officially open the Inner Gallery in St. Lucia in which Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott was one of the featured artists.
The new exhibition, "Linkage" is open to the public from February 11 – February 21 from 10:00AM until 1:00PM and 5:00PM to 9:00PM daily. The official opening will start at 6:00PM Thursday, February 11. Admission is free.

Philipsburg: --- Police have arrested two persons for the murder of Saliba Absalon whose body was found at his Middle Region home on December 11. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the two suspects were arrested on Tuesday and are currently being questioned by authorities. Those in custody are one female identified as J.W from Jamaica and a male suspect identified as B.B from Dominica.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the two suspects in custody were living together and are the neighbors of the now dead man.
The body of Absalon was found in his home with severe injuries. Police are currently investigating the murder of David Eustace Priest, Eric Yuan Sam, Haresh Dayalani, Christian Lloyd, and Saliba Absalon.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Sector of R.O.B., department of New Projects and Maintenance would like to inform the general public that the recapping of the LB Scott road will start on Thursday the 25th of February 2010 from 20:00 hours / 8.00 PM.

The upgrading of L.B. Scott Road, including the Texaco Round-a-bout, will be a continuation of the upgrading projects. The last of such projects was that of the AJC Brouwer Road.

All road works for this project will in general be executed at night. Trenching works alongside the L.B. Scott road will not affect the traffic flow.

During working hours the various alternative routes will be indicated and advised.

The L.B. Scott road will not be closed completely in both directions. Traffic measures and signs will be installed to allow a smooth flow of the traffic at night. Vehicles can use the indicated alternative routes depending on their direction and destinations.

With the upgrading of the L.B. Scott road, the restructuring of the driveway asphalt layers will be in place, including new road markings, drainage upgrade, among other improvements.

For more information about the repair work interested persons can contact the Sector of R.O.B. department of New Projects and Maintenance. Project management will be executed by Mr. Benjamin Ortega.

The department would like to request the general public and motorist to exercise caution and patience during when using the L.B. Scott road during the upgrading phase.

Philipsburg: ---- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has placed Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek to the disposition of the Island Government for another year. SMN News learnt that Panneflec sent the Minister of Justice a letter sometime last week telling her that the agreement he had would have expired on February 1 2010 and he intended to report back to work as Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police on that date. Sources say when the Minister received that letter she immediately prepared a decree telling Panneflec that he is placed to the disposition of the island government for another year.
SMN News further learnt that Panneflec had sent a letter to Minister Jacoba shortly after she took office indicating to her that he had completed the task required of him by the executive council (Island Government) and was ready to return to the police force but she never replied to his letter.
Sources say that one of the reasons the Minister of Justice cannot readily accept Panneflec back in the force is because former Minister of Justice David Dick had placed Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran illegally in a position that was not legally available. It is understood that Panneflec is currently in scale 16 and Doran is also in the same scale. The source said if Panneflec is to return to the police force then he would have to be promoted to scale 17 that are currently being held by Former Chief Commissioner of Police Derrick Holiday. SMN News learnt that the illegal adjustments were made during the last two weeks of the former Minister's tenure.
In the meantime, former Minister of Justice David Dick did publish the vacancy of Chief Commissioner of Police, which was contested by Holiday in a court of law.
In an invited comment Panneflec said he discussed the matter of his disposal to the island government for another year with his legal representative. He said based on the complexity of the case he is not in a position to divulge much information. SMN News also learnt that members of the NABP are scheduled to arrive on St. Maarten this Wednesday where they would discuss the matter with the management team of the Police Force St. Maarten (KPSSS). SMN News learnt that the NABP representatives would also be discussing the issues surrounding detective Carlton Philips and the prosecutor's office.
Several efforts to contact Minister Jacoba by phone on Monday proved futile even though she is currently on St. Maarten.

Philipsburg: --- Elected officials from the National Alliance slate and their supporters held a car rally on Sunday as they thanked voters for the confidence they placed in them during the January 22 parliamentary election.
Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin and his constituents gathered at the University parking lot where they decorated their cars with posters and flags before driving through the various districts. Several of the posters carry the words "Moving forward together" "Thank You St. Maarten, forward together".The NA leader was seen braving the hot sun as he placed posters on his personal vehicles and those of his supporters. Several of the supporters of each of the candidates were seen distributing tee-shirts and flags for those who came to join the party.

The rally left the university parking lot through Sucker Garden as they made their way through Belvedere. According to the supporters of the National Alliance who car pooled to join the party said their plans were to make sure they pass through each and every district on the island honking their horns.
Dorothy Lake advisor to the National Alliance leader said all the cars that participated in the rally were packed. She said the population came out in large numbers to show their support for the Alliance. Lake said in each district other cars joined the rally making the line rather long. She said while she was leaving Simpson Bay there were other cars going down to Simpson Bay.
At the end of the rally supporters of National Alliance gathered on the Pondfill where they partied for the rest of the evening.

DUTCH QUARTER: --- Police managed to recover eight stolen vehicles in the bushes at Zorg en Rust Union Farm on Saturday afternoon reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said the police patrol recovered the vehicles that were hidden in the bushes, but in close proximity of the homes in that area. Henson said all of the vehicles were reported missing
Two of these vehicles, one Infinity Q45 and a Suzuki Baleno, were set on fire as a result of which both cars were totally destroyed. The 2008 Infinity Q45 at the time it was stolen and burnt, had a value of approximately U.S. $ 45.000, while the Suzuki Baleno had a value of approximately U.S. $ 6000.
The other cars were one Kia Rio, One Kia Picanto, One Kia Mini van, One white Suzuki Vitara, One Daihatsu Charade and one Samsung 3M.
The police spokesman said it is very unlikely that no one did not see when the two vehicles were burnt and no one he said called police to notify them.
It is very unfortunate that no one called the police when they saw fire and smoke in the bushes. All vehicles were towed away and the investigation to determine who the person or persons are that are responsible for this criminal act. The police Department are asking any one who may have information that could shed some light on this investigation to call in and give that information using the Tip-line 9300 or the Detective department at 54-22222 ext. 222/224.
In addition to this case, while the police officers were on the scene of this investigation, several verbal threats towards police came from within the crowd on the Union farm side that had gathered to see what was going on. However at the time it could not be determined who these persons were that made these verbal threats. The police department is hereby sending out a very stern message to those persons making these threats, that the police department does not take these type statements lightly and will maintain its "Zero Tolerance" policy with regards to any type of threats or negative behavior towards the police.

GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Monday, February 8, the Executive Council of the Island Territory of St. Maarten hereby informs the general public that the business opening hours adjustments are as follows:

• Regular opening hours from Monday—Saturday will remain 6am to 6:30pm.
• On Thursday (as 'koopavond') regular opening hours are extended from 6:30pm to 9:00pm (except where otherwise exempted). This implies that no exemption fee needs to be paid for being open during these hours.
• All businesses unless otherwise restricted are eligible to apply for extending opening hours on Sundays and days equal to Sunday from 11am to 3pm (expect where otherwise exempted).
• Yearly exemption fee is Naf. 150.00

As per the Business Opening Hours Ordinance (Landsverordening Winkelsluiting) PB 1969 no. 58, all businesses unless otherwise exempted are required to adhere to the abovementioned maximum opening hours and must comply with the relevant labor laws, requirements and policies.

Philipsburg:--- Two Haitians nationals are among four armed bandits that were arrested early Monday morning reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said police were called to Guana Bay shortly after 9 am after four men had stormed a house and robbed the occupants under the threat of a firearm. According to the police spokesman the ring leaders of the robbery appeared to be the two Haitians nationals who refused to cooperate with the investigators saying they cannot speak English. "Already we can see that these two suspects have no remorse by the way they are acting." Henson said.

Police arrested four suspects who had just robbed a home in Guana Bay, Henson said several police cars responded to the scene to investigate, he said while on their way they noticed a green jeep with license plate 730 ZBS 971 with four men inside speeding out of Guana Bay road. Police he said managed to stop the jeep and conducted a control. Police arrested the four men whom they identified as R.F.G from St. Maarten, H.R from the Dominican Republic and F.Y and J.M from Haiti. Police also recovered the firearm a .38 caliber, clothing as well as a black briefcase that was stolen from the victim. The police spokesman said the case is currently being investigated by the armed robbery unit.

Philipsburg: --- The road is near for 13 singers when they compete for the golden voice song festival champion. The hype for the show is growing according to organizers. The 13 contestants were chosen by a panel of judges during the qualifying show on February 14th 2010. Contestants are presently in the studio preparing for what many call should be the battle of voices scheduled for this Sunday February 28th at the festival village.
Organizers were not too happy with the turnout for the qualifying show however, they remain optimistic about the turnout for the final show on Sunday. The show has two parts; the contestants will sing the song by which they qualified to the finals and a new song making it two rounds. Organizers also decided this time around to start the show early because most of the patrons have to work the next day, therefore the show will start at 6:00pm sharp. Moitiance dance theatre and modeling group will make a special performance for the show. The show will be hosted by Alida Brown Henery and Peter J.
The singers are Erica Van Putten, Keila Gumbs, Shanella James, Mina James, L Key, Michael Paris, Kisha Richards, Ishmeal Fosten, Annick Moses, Shawn Wilkinson, Shawn Jacquet , Heather D and Benjamin Bell. They will be judged on their voice performance, dress code and stage performance. Presently the contestants can be voted upon on Pjd2radio.com. persons can log on and vote for whoever they think will win the competition. Tickets are available at van dorp, DVD express and pjd2 studios for a special price of $10. Entrance at the gate will be $15.

Philipsburg: --- With the reports from SOAB now in the open SMN News has learnt that the head of the permits department at ROB Mr. Guy Gumbs has submitted his resignation from that department. Sources say that the department head has claimed that he has health conditions and as such, he can no longer hold the position (head of permits) thus he resigns with immediate effect.
Gumbs submitted his letter to general affairs on January 25th 2010. He also requested that the executive council reinstate him to his former position as project manager at the department of New Projects and Beheerdienst with the same legal position prior to his departure in April 2009.
The letter was sent to the executive council and copied to Commissioner Theo Heyliger.
SMN News managed to retrieve a copy of a memo Gumbs sent to the director of ROB Mr. Joseph Dollison on August 31 2009 informing him that he would not be signing the permits for Olzina N.V. belonging to Samir Andreos. According to the memo, Gumbs said he would not sign the advice and suggested, "All departments shall sign this advice including inspections since they are so aware of the circumstances surrounding the project. The person who was head of VROM or who now represented at the time shall be the one to sign this advice."
SMN News also learnt that Gumbs was under constant pressure from the director of ROB to sign off advices that did not meet the legal requirements and as such, he has decided to remove himself now that an official investigation has started at ROB.
SMN News also learnt that the director of ROB Mr. Joseph Dollison has submitted a letter saying he is currently ill and would not be reporting to work, while his subordinate Claudius Buncamper is currently off island. For the sake of clarity we at SMN News have decided to publish the memo Gumbs sent to Dollison pertaining Olzina N.V.