SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – Iris Arrindell has been appointed as Temporary Manager of NV GEBE after the conditional resignation of the previous manager Thomas Roggendorf who resigned effectively Friday, June 12, 2026.

Arrindell on Monday, June 15, 2026, issued a statement to customers and employees with respect to how the company will move forward.

“For more than 65 years, NV GEBE has been a household name and an integral part of the fabric of St. Maarten. Through periods of growth, times of hardship, and moments of uncertainty, we remained steadfast in our mission: to provide the people of this country with reliable water and electricity services.

“Our journey has not been without challenges. We have experienced successes and setbacks, yet our commitment has never wavered. Whether faced with operational difficulties, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances, the dedicated men and women of NV GEBE continue to work tirelessly to ensure the continuity of these essential services and the long-term sustainability of our company.

“We've listened carefully to the concerns, frustrations, and expectations from our customers and the wider community. It is imperative for us to bridge the gap that has emerged between NV GEBE and the people we serve. Acknowledging this reality is the first step toward addressing it.

“As we move forward, it is imperative that we bridge that gap through transparency, accountability, open communication, and a renewed focus on customer service. Rebuilding trust will not happen overnight, but it will remain one of our highest priorities. We are committed not only to restoring confidence in our organization but also strengthening the relationship we have with our customers and our community.

“To the employees of NV GEBE, I ask for your continued dedication, professionalism, and support during this period of renewal. Each of you plays a vital role in shaping the future of this organization. The manner in which we serve, communicate, and respond reflects who we are as a company. Together, we can move beyond the challenges of the past and build a stronger, more responsive, and more resilient NV GEBE for generations to come.

“Let us move forward together, with humility, determination, and a shared commitment to serving St. Maarten,” NV GEBE Temporary Manager Iris Arrindell concluded.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina has extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Curaçao following the country's historic participation in the FIFA World Cup and the unforgettable milestone of scoring its first-ever goal on football's grandest stage.

For the Prime Minister, the significance of the occasion extends far beyond the ninety minutes played on the field. It represents a defining moment for Curaçao, the Dutch Caribbean, and the wider Caribbean region.

"Some moments in sport become much larger than sport itself. This was one of those moments. What the people of Curaçao achieved belongs not only to them, but to everyone throughout our region who understands the determination, sacrifice, and perseverance required for a small island nation to reach the world's biggest sporting stage."

Prime Minister Mercelina noted that Curaçao's World Cup appearance serves as a powerful reminder that ambition, perseverance, and national pride can overcome even the greatest of odds.

"For many of us watching, this journey was about more than football. It was about possibility. It was about seeing a Caribbean nation stand among the world's footballing powers and knowing that excellence can emerge from any corner of our region. That message carries tremendous meaning for our young people."

The Prime Minister further emphasized that Curaçao's accomplishment resonates deeply within Sint Maarten because of the shared experiences, history, and bonds that connect the islands of the Dutch Caribbean.

"There is a special sense of pride when one of our sister islands achieves something extraordinary. Curaçao's journey reminds us that the successes of one Caribbean people inspire the confidence of another. Their achievement has reminded Caribbean people everywhere that our region is capable of producing excellence that can compete and succeed on the world's biggest stages."

Prime Minister Mercelina also reflected on Sint Maarten's unique position during this World Cup, where residents are able to celebrate multiple nations with which they share close ties.

"As a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, we proudly celebrate the participation of the Netherlands. As a people who share one island with our brothers and sisters of Saint-Martin, we likewise celebrate the participation of France. Yet, in this particular World Cup, Curaçao's story carries a special place in the hearts of many throughout our region because it reflects a Caribbean journey that so many of us can identify with."

The Prime Minister stressed that Curaçao's achievement sends an important message to future generations throughout the Caribbean.

"Every young person who watched this World Cup should understand that dreams do not have to be limited by geography. They do not have to be limited by population size. They do not have to be limited by the perception of what others believe is possible. Curaçao has demonstrated that dedication, preparation, and belief can open doors that once seemed beyond reach."

As the tournament continues, Prime Minister Mercelina encouraged the people of Sint Maarten to embrace the spirit of unity and celebration that football inspires around the world.

"The World Cup remains one of the few occasions that can bring together people from different cultures, backgrounds, and nations in a shared celebration of human achievement. Whether one's support lies with Curaçao, the Netherlands, France, or another participating nation, this tournament reminds us of the connections that unite us rather than the differences that separate us."

The Prime Minister concluded by noting that long after the final results of this World Cup have faded from memory, the significance of Curaçao's achievement will endure.

"Years from now, people may not remember every scoreline or every statistic from this tournament. What they will remember is that a Caribbean nation stepped onto the world's biggest football stage and showed what can be achieved through courage, commitment, and belief. That is the legacy of this moment, and it is a legacy worthy of celebration."

Prime Minister Mercelina once again congratulated the people of Curaçao and wished the national team continued success throughout the remainder of the tournament.

SINT MAARTEN (COMMENTARY - By Cdr. Bud Slabbaert) - Residents of Coral Cay have reported the sighting of Old Man Bramble on Christmas Eve. Bramble’s appearance is rare and deeply meaningful. He arrived without fanfare and vanished again, leaving behind a sense of that even the smallest light can guide a community forward.

On this Christmas Eve morning, while mist lingered above the sea and the sun's gentle golden light peeked over the horizon, Old Man Bramble appeared. His beard was as white as sea foam, and he held a lantern that glowed with the warmth of a promise.

Jerry, a boy on the beach, was the first to spot him. He'd heard the stories but never expected to see the man in person. Bramble opened his arms wide.

“Come, boy,” he said. “The sea brought me home”

Jerry stepped forward. He reached out, not for Bramble’s hand…but for the lantern. Bramble smiled and said softly. “Ah, you understand.”

As Jerry touched the handle, the flame flared and flame danced. In that moment, the boy and the legend were no longer strangers. They were connected as guardians of its light.

The path from the beach to the village was covered in sand. Palm fronds moved gently above. Old Man Bramble proceeded at a slow, deliberate pace, while Jerry walked proudly beside him. The lantern between them glowed, not just with flame, but with something deeper. The boy’s heart was full of something brighter, the quiet thrill of being the first to walk beside a legend.

As they reached the first houses, one by one, doors opened and quiet smiles welcomed Bramble. He tipped his hat to each doorway; his eyes crinkled with warmth. Elders watched from porches with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude. Villagers greeting them with smiles. It was like an island exhaled. A welcome not just for a man…, but for a returned legend. Bramble's gentle lantern glow reassured everyone that kindness still matters, and Christmas brings people back together.

Just after sunset on this Christmas Eve, families gathered in the old boathouse on the western inlet of the port to hear Old Man Bramble’s tales of resilience and joy. The boathouse had never held so many hearts at once. Children sat cross-legged on the floor, elders leaning on crates and beams, their hands folded, their faces soft with memory. Bramble’s lantern’s glow added emotional warmth and symbolic power. He was seated on a wooden chair like he’d never left. His eyes crinkled with joy. He spoke softly:

“I came on the mist, quiet as a memory, and you welcomed me like family. I thank you. But legends don’t stay long. We are like the tide. We come when needed, and we go we’re done. So, hear me now, before the mist carries me back to the ‘Quiet Place’.”

During the powerful meeting, he explains the symbolism of the lantern, the significance of light, and how it reflects the nature of the human heart.

“Light Is like the heart,” he said, tapping his chest, “Because the heart is the first lantern we ever carry. It glows when we love. It dims when we’re afraid. It brightens when we’re kind. And when we share it, we let our heart-light touch someone else. Everyone has an inner light, a spark. Keep your inner light alive by sharing, showing kindness and courage. When you shine with generosity, honesty, and humility, you help others find their way. When you see someone standing alone, be the first to walk over. Let others borrow your light when their own flickers.

“This lantern isn’t just flame and glass; it’s a reminder. Some lose or hide theirs. Some let the world blow it out. but the wise protect and share it.”

Bramble turned toward the sea. “You see that lighthouse on the far point? It doesn’t shout or move, but its steady brightness helps sailors find their way home.”

He raised the lantern. “This little light is the same. A steady person becomes a beacon for others, not through force or noise but by simply being themselves. Even one small light can change everything and offer hope in the darkest times.”

My dear people…, all of you, every soul on this island. The world is heavy enough. Don’t add weight where you can add kindness. When you shine, the island grows softer. When you do these things, Christmas will never leave you. Not even in the hardest seasons of your life.”

When Bramble finished his story, the boathouse felt full of something soft and glowing. The lanterns above them flickered gently. The place was still humming with warmth long after the story ended. Bramble had grown quiet. He stood near the back door that opened toward the sea. The night breeze slipped in, carrying something that called him.

Young Jerry looked up. “Bramble? Where are you going?”

Bramble smiled soft. “For a little walk, my boy. Christmas night is when the island speaks the clearest.”

Jerry opened his mouth to follow, but Bramble shook his head gently. “Stay with your people.”

He touched Jerry’s shoulder lightly and stepped outside, walking slowly, the lantern in his hand, its glow flickering.

Old Man Bramble slipped away to the quiet shoreline which was lit by the moonlight. The stars shimmered like old friends. And as quietly as he arrived that morning, he returned to the ‘Quiet Place’ as the legend leaving behind a renewed sense of togetherness.

The next morning Jerry went to the beach. The morning sky was pale and soft, like it hadn’t decided on its colors yet. He realized that Bramble left. In the sand were footprints leading toward the water. Jerry knelt, touching the last print. “You’ll come back,” he whispered with a tear in his eyes. “I know you will.”

By Cdr. Bud Slabbaert

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Justice is currently holding an emergency crisis meeting with the leadership of the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) in direct response to the critical situation at the Pointe Blanche Prison, where a fire broke out earlier today, Wednesday, May 14 within the facility.

Emergency units from the Fire Department, Ambulance Services, KPSM, VKS (Voluntary Corps), and the Koninklijke Marechaussee were deployed and successfully restored order and ensured the safety of all involved by 6:00 pm.

Initial reports indicate that there were three minor non-threatening injuries, which were treated on site. All prisoners are safe and accounted for.

The Minister of Justice Nathalie TackIing visited the prison and has officially requested military support to further secure the prison and maintain order.

“This is a serious threat, and we are acting with full force and urgency to secure the safety of the public at large. The safety of the public, prison staff, and detainees remains our top priority.

“We will not tolerate lawlessness, and we are taking all necessary measures to maintain control and uphold the rule of law. I commend all emergency units for their swift response and diligence, and for ensuring that all prison staff and prisoners were safe,” the Minister of Justice Tackling said on Wednesday evening.

The Ministry of Justice will provide further updates as verified information becomes available.