The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) would like to express its appreciation to Minister Meyers regarding Wednesday's announcement of increased support for the Annual St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, now its 32nd year. The secured increase in funding early in the event's planning stages greatly adds to the return on the value of those funds in promotional gains. Independent statistical reviews have reported that the overall benefit to the island during Regatta weekend is approximately $9 million. Access to increased promotional funds will ensure that the Regatta continues for many years to come and allows for Serious Growth potential which will greatly benefit the island. The significance of this commitment announced by Minister Meyers to both the Regatta and Carnival, the two largest cultural events on St. Maarten, should be applauded.
