April 23, 2026 No comments
KPSM Enters Second Phase of Gun Amnesty Program Amid Heightened Carnival Security Measures
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) informs the general public that the first phase of the Inter-Insular Gun Amnesty Program has officially concluded. During this initial phase, individuals were given the opportunity to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms safely and anonymously. KPSM is now in the second phase, under the clear message: “We Coming For It.” This phase represents a firm transition from voluntary compliance to enhanced enforcement. Officers will intensify preventative searches, targeted controls, and operational actions, including visits to homes and businesses where intelligence indicates the possible presence of illegal firearms. As the island prepares for the heightened activities surrounding the Carnival period, KPSM will also significantly increase its operational presence across key areas. Enhanced patrols...
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April 23, 2026 No comments
Reading with Ralph Launches at St. Maarten's Oldest School
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Reading with Ralph has officially launched. The monthly community reading initiative held its first event at Oranje Primary School. Local author Ralph Cantave hosted the event. It brought together students and families for an interactive story time featuring Caribbean literature. Oranje Primary School was a meaningful choice. It is the oldest school on St. Maarten. It is also featured in Cantave's children's book, Steve Takes a Stand, a story set in 1960s St. Maarten that connects young readers to local history and culture. School Manager Minerva Marlin shared her appreciation after the event. "Your storytelling brought joy, laughter, and inspiration to everyone present, while highlighting the richness of our Caribbean culture. We are grateful for the positive impact...
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April 23, 2026 No comments
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell Meets with CAF Regional Manager. Sint Maarten to Explore Potential Relationship
ARUBA (ORANJESTAD) – Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, while attending the 21st European Union (EU) Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) EU-OCT Forum in Aruba, had the opportunity to meet with the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) Regional Manager for the Caribbean Dr. Stacy Richards-Kennedy. CAF continues to play a vital role in promoting sustainable development and regional integration across Latin America and the Caribbean. As one of the region’s leading multilateral financial institutions, CAF provides financing, technical expertise, and strategic support to both public and private sector projects that contribute to economic growth and social progress. Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell said that the meeting was very informative and that Sint Maarten would explore further relations with this financial...
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April 23, 2026 No comments
Minister Tackling and MP Roseburg Welcome Community-Led Donation Supporting Inmate Rehabilitation
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Minister of Justice, Nathalie M. Tackling, together with Member of Parliament Ms.Sjamira Roseburg, officially accepted a donation of boxing equipment for inmates at the Point Blanche Prison. The donation, consisting of punching bags and boxing gloves, was personally delivered by Gramey Browne, in collaboration with AMA Jewelers and Pineapple Pete. The initiative was made possible through the efforts of MP Roseburg, who connected Mr. Browne with the Ministry’s leadership. During his visit as an author and motivational speaker, Browne held open discussions with inmates, where many expressed interest in constructive outlets that support discipline, focus, and personal development. In response, Browne mobilized support to provide the equipment and has further committed to personally training inmates in...
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April 23, 2026 No comments
DUO continuing to expand video calling and e-learning in the Caribbean
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Education Executive Agency (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs, DUO) is continuing to expand its existing services in the Caribbean. As of this month, the service centre on Curaçao has been offering prospective students the option of video calling a DUO staff member. The e-learning programme for prospective students, which was previously rolled out on Curaçao, is now also being offered in schools on Aruba. No longer any time difference DUO has offered the option of video calling staff in the Netherlands ever since the coronavirus pandemic began. The idea was to enable current and former students to contact the organisation with questions about student finance or repaying student loans. However, the number of available time slots was limited because of...
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