PHILIPSBURG:--- The Nature Foundation hosted an important event for teachers and educators on November 18, 2024, at the SKOS Training Center on the premises of Sister Magda Primary School. Designed to empower educators with innovative tools and strategies for environmental education, the event brought together nearly 50 participants from primary and secondary schools across the Dutch side of the island.
The day featured a walk-through fair showcasing a wide range of educational materials available for loan; all made possible through the generous support of the Blue Marine Foundation and the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance. These resources are related to the nature of Sint Maarten and are tailored to help teachers enhance nature education and encourage a love of nature among their students.
The educational materials covered six thematic areas, ranging from indoor laboratory equipment to outdoor exploration tools.
In addition to the fair, the event included two hands-on workshops designed to equip educators with creative strategies to engage students in environmental topics. Approximately 20 teachers participated in these sessions, exploring ways to spark curiosity and encourage active learning in the classroom.
"The response from teachers was incredible," said Gaia Piccaluga, CORENA Education Officer at the Nature Foundation. "It’s heartening to see so many educators eager to integrate nature-focused learning into their teaching. With the support of DCNA, we constantly work to provide them with the tools they need to make this a reality."
The Nature Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated and supported the event, contributing to the promotion of environmental education on the island.
For more information about the Nature Foundation’s educational resources and future initiatives, please email Gaia at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In the early hours of Thursday, November 21, 2024, at approximately 12:30 AM, Central Dispatch received a report of a traffic accident involving two scooters on Welfare Road. Several police patrols and emergency personnel were dispatched to the location.

Upon arrival, officers discovered that two scooter riders had collided while overtaking several vehicles on the road. The preliminary investigation indicates that one scooter was coming from the direction of Simpson Bay while the other, carrying a passenger, was heading from the Kruythoff Roundabout towards Simpson Bay. Both scooters were reportedly attempting to pass vehicles when the accident took place.

Ambulance personnel, who were promptly dispatched to the location, attended to the injured at the scene before transporting all three victims to the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) for further medical evaluation and treatment.

Following an update from the Traffic Department of the KPSM, it was confirmed that none of the victims sustained serious injuries. However, the investigation into the cause of the accident is still ongoing.

The St. Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is issuing a stern warning to scooter riders about their reckless and irresponsible behavior on the roads. Overtaking unsafely, performing stunts, and disregarding traffic laws are not only illegal but endanger the lives of everyone on the road. These actions have caused numerous accidents, including this recent collision.
Riders who continue to engage in these dangerous behaviors risk serious injury, death, or causing harm to others.

KPSM Press Release.

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad:---  Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) announced today the addition of Mr. Robert Wickham to its Board of Directors, effective November 19, 2024.
Robert Wickham is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in leading technology-based businesses and a notable track record in management, consulting, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership. He began his professional journey at the esteemed Boston Consulting Group.
His distinguished career includes leadership roles at multinational companies, such as Salesforce and Oracle, where he spearheaded significant growth initiatives and technological advancements. At Salesforce, Mr. Wickham served as a former General Manager of Tableau Asia Pacific and Chief of Staff for the Asia Pacific region where he was responsible for the Platform & Emerging Technologies portfolio and the launch of Salesforce’s $50 million Australian venture fund and regional startup programme. At Oracle, Mr. Wickham had responsibility for leading the Engineered Systems business in Australia and New Zealand, and System Management business in North America. He also co-founded Go Fly Limited, a low-cost airline later acquired by easyJet.
In announcing the appointment, Mr. Vincent Pereira, Chairman of the RFHL Board of Directors shared, “Robert Wickham’s formidable leadership expertise in technology, entrepreneurship and corporate strategy makes him a valuable addition to our Board. We welcome him onboard and look forward to his keen insight which will certainly contribute to the Republic Group fortifying its position as a leader of innovation in the financial services industry.”

SABA:--- Saba, fondly known as the "Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean," proudly secured six prestigious Scuba Diver Readers' Choice Awards at this year’s ceremony hosted by PADI during the DEMA Show 2024 in Las Vegas. The island was recognized in the following categories: Big Animals, Macro Life, Wall Diving, Advanced Diving, Underwater Photography, and Health of the Marine Environment.
Saba’s consistent commitment to marine conservation, its vibrant underwater ecosystems, and its dedication to offering unparalleled diving experiences have positioned it as a top choice for divers worldwide. This recognition was further amplified by Saba’s prominent feature in the Scuba Diving Magazine Special Edition Publication, which reaches over 85,000 readers. This spotlight serves as a tremendous opportunity to enhance destination exposure and solidify Saba’s reputation among diving enthusiasts.
"The accolades from the Readers' Choice Awards are a testament to Saba’s exceptional diving experiences and the island’s dedication to preserving its marine environment," said the Saba Tourist Bureau.
"We extend our heartfelt thanks to our valued partners and Sea Saba for their tireless efforts in making Saba a preferred diving destination."
Recognition in these awards, voted on by passionate divers, helps further position Saba as a must-visit destination for divers seeking extraordinary underwater adventures. From its stunning walls and macro life to its thriving marine ecosystems, Saba continues to captivate the global diving community.
Dema show
This year the Saba booth partners consisted of The Saba Tourist Bureau, Sea Saba, Juliana's Hotel and Aventura Boats.