November 25, 2025 No comments
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell Serves as Juror for Miss Dutch Caribbean 2026 Pageant
THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Recently Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell served as a jury member for the pre-pageant Miss Dutch Caribbean 2026 event. The casting day took place at the Sint Maarten House/Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague and featured a dynamic judging panel including former title holders and representatives from private sector organizations. Together they evaluated contestants on their talent, confidence, and overall presentation. The event was vibrant and inspiring, celebrating themes of empowerment, cultural pride, diversity, inspiration, and personal growth. Minister Arrindell said: “I deeply admire these young women who courageously stepped forward to present themselves, share their stories, and embrace the challenges of the pageant with poise and determination.” A heartfelt thank you was extended to all participants,...
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November 25, 2025 No comments
Inmates impacted by Powerful Empowerment Session
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Correction Department at the Point Blanche Correctional Institution hosted a highly impactful Empowerment Session on Monday, November 24, 2025, centered on the theme “Pathways to Purpose – Unlocking Potential.” The afternoon brought inspiration and reflection to the inmate population through powerful messages delivered by guest speakers Dr. Ann Marlin-Evans and Dr. Nolan Nanton, who are both respected motivational and spiritual leaders. In her opening remarks, the organizer of the event, Manager of Corrections Mrs. Henrietta Doran-York, welcomed the inmates and highlighted the significance of the day’s theme. She noted that purpose is something deeply personal and enduring, stating: “Purpose is something that cannot be taken away from you — it can only be rediscovered, strengthened, and lived out one step at a...
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November 25, 2025 No comments
Lions Club Kicks Off the Christmas Season with Annual Lighting of the St. Maarten Lions Club Roundabout
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Maarten Lions Club proudly ushered in the Christmas season on Saturday, December 22nd, 2025, with its cherished annual tradition of decorating and lighting the St. Maarten Lions Club Roundabout. This long-standing event continues to symbolize unity, joy, and the spirit of service that the Lions bring to the community each holiday season. Lions members came out in full force, transforming the roundabout into a vibrant display of lights and festive decorations. As the decorations were completed, members gathered to sing beloved Christmas carols, spreading holiday cheer while interacting with each other and with passersby. The warm and joyful atmosphere highlighted the fellowship and dedication that define the St. Maarten Lions Club. Adding to the excitement, Santa Claus...
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November 24, 2025 No comments
SMYC 2025-2026 Keelboat Season Championship Starts with Close Racing on Simpson Bay
SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - The Sint Maarten Yacht Club (SMYC) has started its 2025-2026 Keelboat Season Championship, which is once again sponsored by Grant Thornton. The racing action began on Simpson Bay on Sunday, November 23, with three fleets competing — CSA 1, Diam 24, and Sun Fast 20s. The first race day of the series took place in ideal weather conditions and featured impressive performances and exciting competition. SMYC race officer Joris Zweers got four races completed under sunny skies and a shifting easterly breeze in the bay. Taking the top spot in each class was the Melges 24 Team Island Water World skippered by Frits Bus in CSA 1; Jolyon Ferron in the Diam 24; and Sam Peeks skippering SMYC’s...
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November 24, 2025 No comments
Integrity Symposium 2025 Strengthens National Dialogue on Whistleblowing and Accountability
SINT MAARTEN (BELAIR) - The Integrity Chamber hosted its second Integrity Symposium last Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the Belair Community Centre. Approximately 100 invited guests attended, including dignitaries and representatives of Government, government-owned entities, integrity stakeholders, and community leaders. This year’s theme, “Whistleblowing – Encouraging Accountability,” centered on the critical role that reporting wrongdoing plays in strengthening Sint Maarten’s integrity systems. The event was facilitated by Mistress of Ceremony, Mrs. Amanda Vital-Bedminister. The symposium opened with an address by the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, the Honourable Dr. Luc Mercelina, who emphasized the national importance of accountability and ethical leadership. President of the Integrity Chamber, Rik Bergman, followed with remarks on the shared responsibility across society. “Integrity cannot be achieved by institutions...
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