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Eleven NGOs honored at “A Night of Thanksgiving” award ceremony by the Minister of Justice

SINT MAARTEN (CAY HILL) - A collective of eleven (11) non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were awarded by the Ministry of Justice with a thanksgiving holiday gathering, themed “A Night of Thanksgiving “at the Paradise Event Hall in Cay Hill on Sunday December 10, 2023. 

In the presence of esteemed awardees and distinguished guests, the Honorable Minister of Justice, Anna E. Richardson was also lauded for executing this longstanding celebratory act of thanking the resilient volunteers. 

The unselfish and unspoken efforts of the non-profit organizations, contribute to the diminishing of crime within our society, and youth delinquency, by provisions of extra curriculum activities in Sint Maarten. The awardees are equivocally responsible for the fight against surmounting poverty, which aspires to influences that can only make the work of the Ministry of Justice much lighter. 

The foundations included the GBNM Nanny Nurssy, the St. Maarten Youth Council, the St. Maarten United Ministerial, New Start, Freegan Foods, St. Maarten Senior Citizens Recreational, TZU Chi, Be the Change, Meals on Wheels and volunteers Maria Provence and Cesar Gomez. All invited NGOs were 100% in attendance and feedback was noted that they are looking forward to this event being continuous. Some of the volunteers have served St. Maarten for a period 40 years. 

Moreover, the prestigious “Minister of Justice Award” was presented to the St. Maarten Youth Brigade foundation. This award holds a criterion, seeking out an organization that directly contributes to the reduction in crime rates on Sint Maarten. The St. Maarten Youth Brigade foundation was initiated in 2013, and addresses educational and social gaps for youths ages 12 to 21. It offers a three-year curriculum program, which foster’s cognitive development aimed to eliminate negative behaviors, whilst instilling self-confidence, self-esteem and  develop future role models. 

Minister Anna E. Richardson Opening Remarks: “We embark on a journey to discover the profound impact each NGO has on our community, each of you intentionally contributing a unique vitality to mankind and society. Often, we hear of these organizations and, perhaps with a vague understanding of their missions, but the true measure of their impact remains undervalued.  

This is precisely why as Minister of Justice, I launched this recognition platform, as an annual tradition to express our gratitude for the selfless efforts, these NGOs dedicate to Sint Maarten.

It is time for us to collectively say thank you to our NGOs, to engage with and recognize their unwavering commitment and service to our beloved community. As Minister of Justice, I particularly appreciate your role as community service support systems, understanding that your efforts directly contribute to the reduction of crime and acts of desperation, ultimately aiding the cause of justice. 

Annually, the Ministry will identify and recognize 10 to 16 NGOs for their exceptional contributions to the community. Communities are not solely the responsibility of governments; rather, communities are equally vital for their improvement.”

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Lions Christmas Bingo slated for Saturday at the Aleeze

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - This year, the Sint Maarten Lions Club will break from its traditional venue the Jocelyn Arndell Festival Village to host the at Annual Lion Wally Havertong Christmas Bingo Club at the indoor facility, Aleeze Convention Center in Madame Estate this Saturday December 9th.

2023-2024 Club President Lion Felix Richards stated: “Preparations for the Annual Lion Wally Havertong Christmas Bingo Spectacular has been finalized and bingo tickets can be purchased from any Sint Maarten Lions Club member, at the Lions Civic Center on Suckergarden Road and at the Big D Photo Studio in the Marcus Building on the Pondfill Road”.

The price per ticket is: US$15.00 or NAF 27.00 and each ticket entitles you to one bingo card. There will be numerous chances to win prizes, including: Overloaded Christmas Baskets, various weekend stays at hotels & resorts, dinners at participating restaurants, and airline travel vouchers to destinations such as Paris, Aruba, Curacao & Bonaire. The grand prize at the bingo is a Santa Bag which is US$ 1,000 cash money.

For all those persons who enjoy hearing Lion Wally Havertong sound-off the numbers and asking the audience if “Anybody Bingo?”, we encourage you to purchase your tickets in advance and arrive on time as the bingo will start at 8pm sharp at the Aleeze Convention Center. There are about 900 seats available for bingo players and each person entering the venue must have a ticket for a seat which also represents one bingo card. Additional tickets & cards can be bought at the venue for US$ 15.00

The Sint Maarten Lions Club membership is aware that this is one of the most loved signature projects that the club holds on an annual basis. The Lion’s Bingo is not only a fun game for the entire family and friends, it also offers opportunities to win prizes which are in tune with what a winner would want during the Christmas Season.

More importantly, the bingo is the most important fundraising project for the club seeing that the proceeds are used to touch so many in our community that require assistance throughout the Lionistic year. Lions focuses on community projects surrounding Vision, Cancer, Diabetes, Environment and Hunger. The Sint Maarten Lions Club does even extra projects to also assist senior citizens, sports teams, artists and other foundations on the island.

The President, board & members of the Sint Maarten Lions Club would to thank all sponsors who have donated baskets, gifts prizes and made other donations to make the Christmas Bingo a success. The community at large is welcome to attend the bingo as the club membership is in full gear to ensure that this annual event is enjoyed by all.

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GEBE continues its indiscriminate action of disconnections while the government looks on in silence

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - “I want to remind the community that it is nearly 2 months ago, that the Prime Minister was in parliament to respond to questions from members of parliament regarding GEBE,” Member of Parliament (MP) and Leader of the Democratic Party (DP) Sarah Wescot Williams said on Wednesday in a press statement. 

This meeting was the result of a request by the members of parliament Wescot-Williams, Heyliger-Marten and Emmanuel. 

These members requested an urgent public meeting due to the ongoing issues surrounding GEBE, especially where the billing of consumers was concerned, stated MP Wescot. 

“It was not too long before that meeting that the minister of VSA was in the media announcing that he had secured an agreement with GEBE for a payment plan, while on the other hand, the Prime Minister was admonishing persons to pay their bills, a total lack of coordination.” 

Questions by members of parliament about the inconsistencies of GEBE where it pertains to billing and collection were left unanswered. In fact, the “urgent” public meeting of parliament is yet to continue, the MP stated. 

GEBE announced recently that as it is updating its administration, customers should expect bulks of bills simultaneously. 

“With all this going on and the government mum on the many issues plaguing GEBE, the population is again confronted with disconnection notices in the local media. This understandably leading to much anxiety in persons who have not yet paid up all outstanding”. 

“Will they too be cut off? Did GEBE ever entertain a payment plan for consumers? Who are being cut off?” 

At this time of the year, does our electricity company think this is good corporate behavior? 

Yes, GEBE might be in need of money, but there are so many wasteful acts, such as court penalties that can be avoided.

It also begs the question whether government has its ears to the ground and understands the plight of the population, the MP stated. 

“It’s easy to say “if you have not received your bills, put money aside for when you do receive these”, but in an environment where too many of our people live from day to day, it’s unrealistic and uncaring to even suggest so”.

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St. Dominic High School Dr. Soniya Bag Achieves Milestone with Double Master's in Medicine and Global Health

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - St. Dominic High School proudly congratulates Dr. Soniya Bag, an alumna from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Class of 2016, on the recent completion of her double Master's (MSc) in Medicine and Global Health from Maastricht University.

Soniya's academic journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by dedication, perseverance, and a passion for making a difference in the field of healthcare. Throughout medical school, Soniya's commitment to learning and global health took her to 10 different hospitals and healthcare centers across the Netherlands. Her academic pursuits also led her to study abroad experiences, including a transformative exchange program at Thammasat University in Thailand, where she delved into courses focused on human security, human rights, and health.

For her MSc Global Health thesis, Soniya returned to St. Martin to conduct invaluable qualitative research examining the island's dengue prevention and management system. Additionally, her MSc Medicine thesis involved pre-clinical research at UMass Chan Medical School in the USA, where she explored the immunological mechanisms of alcoholic liver disease.

As the first graduate in her immediate family and the inaugural doctor, Soniya's achievement holds profound significance not only for her family but also for her community and those who share similar life experiences. She proudly embraces the responsibility of being a trailblazer, representing diversity in medicine, and inspiring young women of color and future generations.

The seven-year-long endeavor was not without its challenges, but Soniya attributes her success to the unwavering support of loved ones, peers, teachers, and healthcare professionals who guided her along the way. "I am thrilled to have completed this incredible journey and am grateful for the support that has fueled my success. I am now ready to embark on my professional career as a doctor with a deep passion for global health. If there are opportunities in the fields of global health, public health, or community health, I am eager to connect and contribute to these critical areas," says Soniya Bag.

Soniya's commitment to her roots was evident during her graduation ceremony, where she proudly represented her heritage with the flags of Saint Martin and India.

Dr. Soniya Bag

Dr. Soniya Bag

 

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Minister Ottley: MOU and water contract signed to assist French Saint Martin with water shortage issues

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - A historic collaboration was formalized today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of St. Maarten and the Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Minister Omar Ottley representing the Council of Ministers and President Louis Mussington, representing the respective entities, sealed the agreement at the Government building.

The participants, recognizing the critical need for equitable and resilient solutions in providing community drinking water on Saint Martin, have affirmed their commitment to collaborate on a groundbreaking project. The primary objectives include addressing challenges faced by technical and mechanical issues affecting water production and distribution by SAUR.

"When I heard about the water capacity challenges faced by our brothers and sisters on the northern side of the island, I felt it was prudent that we find a way to assist, as we are to be viewed as one island with one body and two heartbeats. I am grateful to Mr. Sanchez for agreeing to continue this long-awaited project, and to President Mussington for seeing it through and making it a reality." Said Ottely.

The collaboration will be spearheaded by N.V. G.E.B.E. and ETABLISSEMENT DES EAUX ET DE L'ASSAINISSEMENT DE SAINT-MARTIN (EEASM). GEBE, an electrical and water distribution corporation, will leverage its expertise to provide safe drinking water to the French side of the island, while EEASM, the designated representative of the Collectivité, will oversee water and sanitation services.

In a joint effort, the participants aim to support capacity building, sustainability, and project implementation to improve the distribution of community drinking water, addressing challenges posed by technical and mechanical issues affecting SAUR's operations.

Weather-related stresses, including the impact of Hurricanes Irma and María in 2017, have underscored the vulnerabilities of existing systems. The participants acknowledge these challenges and commit to working together to provide safe drinking water to community residents, ensuring compliance with health regulations.

The Government of St. Maarten, dedicated to fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals, aims to ensure its population's access to a safe water supply and basic sanitation. This commitment aligns with the broader goals of improving overall health, socioeconomic development, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

As part of their collaborative efforts, the participants will address weather-related challenges by continuing infrastructure repairs and improvements to enhance sustainability and resilience. This MoU marks a significant milestone in fostering a resilient and reliable water supply for the communities of Saint-Martin.

Although the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and contract were signed today, the implementation process is expected to take place by February 2024. This timeframe allows both parties to have ample time to make the necessary operational preparations.

The extra preparation period ensures that all logistical aspects, such as resource allocation, infrastructure development, and capacity building, can be effectively arranged. By allowing sufficient time for these preparations, it increases the likelihood of a successful and smooth transition when the project begins in February 2024.

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Minister of Justice Richardson Announces CLIMB as Winning Bidder for GED Courses at Prison and House of Detention

SINT MAARTEN (POINT BLANCHE) - Honorable Minister of Justice, Anna E. Richardson is pleased to announce that the esteemed company, Creative Leadership and Innovation Management Bureau (CLIMB), has secured the bid to conduct General Educational Development (GED) courses for inmates at the Prison and House of Detention in Pointe Blanche, Sint Maarten.

The GED is a general equivalency diploma, which consists of standardized examinations, that entitles someone to receive credentials equivalent to a high school diploma. 

The results of the tender process were unveiled in a meeting attended by the Acting Director of the Prison and House of Detention, Mrs. Henrietta Doran, alongside Dr. Yadira and Delroy Pierre representing CLIMB. This collaboration aims to empower incarcerated individuals with educational opportunities, fostering rehabilitation and personal growth. 

Previously, the GED SXM initiative at the prison resulted in significant success, with eleven (11) inmates achieving their certificates of achievement under the guidance of CLIMB. 

Minister Richardson emphasizes the importance of education as a key component in the rehabilitation process, highlighting the government's commitment to providing inmates with the tools necessary for a successful reintegration into society.

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PFP: Upholding Electoral Integrity and Fair Play in Sint Maarten Elections is Critical

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Party for Progress (PFP) raised serious concerns about the continued disregard for the election and campaign guidelines issued by the Minister of Justice on Sint Maarten. This issue not only questions the integrity of the electoral process but also poses safety risks.

“People have reached out to us, including candidates on other parties, regarding the placement of billboards and flags too close to or even in the roundabouts,” PFP Deputy Leader Marvio Cooks states. “The guidelines were verbally communicated to party representatives on November 13th, and published a couple days before postulation day. However, we see that legacy and even new parties have chosen to disregard the rule of not placing campaign material in the immediate area of the roundabouts.”

The published ministerial regulation specifies that materials can only be placed 10 meters before any entry point into a roundabout. This is done for safety reasons, as especially larger posters or moving items such as flags can cause a distraction for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

"If you cannot follow simple election guidelines, which is a small thing, how can people trust you to do the big things, right?" PFP Party Leader Melissa Gumbs stated. "The #2 candidate on the DP slate, the #1 and 2 candidates on the UPP slate, and the #9 candidate on the URSM slate should all know better. All candidates have political history and knowledge, and even after warnings were given in the specially created KPSM/Party Reps election chat, we still saw even more posters being added inside roundabouts."

Gumbs and Cooks call on candidates to rectify their illegally placed billboards with haste.

“It would not surprise me if party board reps had communicated the order from KPSM to remove the billboards, but of course, you’d have to be operating as an actual team to do things that are, in essence, teamwork,” Gumbs concluded.

David Salomon, PFP's number 10 candidate was quoted saying "We cannot allow the desire to win at any cost to overshadow the need for safety and fairness in our elections. The people of Sint Maarten deserve leaders who demonstrate respect for the law and the well-being of the community."

This is not the first time PFP has raised questions about this issue. In fact, prior to Postulation Day, they had already sounded the alarm that billboards were being placed in the dead of night, providing an unfair advantage to those parties while the ones observing the rules were left to wonder what was going on.

“This win-at-any-cost mentality is not something that we do condone. Such tactics are not only unfair competition but also jeopardize the safety and integrity of our democratic processes. We urge KPSM, the Ministry of Justice and the public to be aware of and take a stand against such manipulative practices.”

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Minister Doran makes a Game-Changing Development for the Football Federation

SINT MAARTEN (BELVEDERE) - Minister of VROMI, Egbert Doran, in a groundbreaking move has allocated a substantial parcel of land in Belvedere, to the Sint Maarten Football Federation (SXMFF) for their use.

This exciting development comes as a welcome solution to the Federation, which has been seeking this opportunity for some time now, to provide a proper and safe environment for their young players to develop and foster their talent, which will enable them to access international platforms.

“I am really happy to be able to finally make this happen for the Federation, because they have faced several challenges over the years in trying to secure a proper playing field,” Doran said. “The Football Federation was able to secure a piece of land in 2016 on Pond Island, but after the passing of Hurricanes Irma & Maria in 2017, the then Minister of VROMI commandeered that land, which is currently a Landfill and since then has left the Football Federation displaced and the sport of soccer in jeopardy. I am happy that I was able to right this wrong.”

This allocation of the land in Belvedere, Lower Princess Quarter, which took over a year to finalize, now represents the home and cornerstone of the SXMFF, has a sprawling size of 11.700 m^2 and with state-of-the-art facilities in the pipeline, this space will cater to both recreational players and competitive teams.

To ensure that football remains an inclusive and accessible sport for everyone, the SXMFF has also agreed to partner with three (3) schools located in the nearby areas of Middle Region, Belvedere, and Dutch Quarter, to extend a sporting program to them. This program, is to further expand the Federation’s current initiative, which has already resulted in local students being scouted and receiving scholarships to prominent Colleges and Universities overseas, where they are now pursuing their tertiary education.

“I want to use this opportunity as well, to applaud the President of the Football Federation, Mr. Sudesh ‘Johnny’ Singh, who has passionately been on a quest to develop football on the island,” highlighted. “He has through significant efforts, rallied several private sector partners, whom together have been able to bring professional international scouts to the island and has brought the sport to a level that now has the attention and opportunity to engage with FIFA.”

SXMFF in response, thanked the Minister for going the extra mile to make this long-awaited dream a reality for their organization, and explained that now their focus will be on the development of the land into a proper facility.

“We are hoping to include the construction of modern football fields, equipped with high-quality turf to enhance playing conditions,” Singh said. “Additionally, we hope to have other amenities such as changing rooms, spectator stands, and spaces for community events. The infrastructure will be designed to meet the standards of professional football, so that we can provide our players with access to the best playing environment and be able to host other professional teams from across the region.”

Minister Doran says he is thrilled to have been able to see this project to fruition, as it will have a major impact on the community. “Beyond its direct impact on the football community, the allocation of this land is expected to have positive ripple effects throughout the island,” he added. “Increased sports activities often lead to improved community wellbeing and local businesses will benefit from the influx of visitors and participants, that sports tourism usually attracts.”

He advises the public to look out for more community projects and homeownership programs which he will continue to work on, once given the opportunity to do so.

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PERIDOT FD. ANNOUNCES CO-FOUNDER OF ‘TOMARO’S C.H.A.N.G.E.’ FOR DEC. 1st

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – The Peridot Foundation stated in a press statement on Sunday: ‘Unite! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls’ is the United Nations theme starting November 25th, ending December 10th, 2023, marked as International Human Rights Day.

These sixteen (16) days of activism campaign for the awareness of gender-based violence is commemorated each year worldwide by civic organizations as well as government agencies. Violence against women and girls reportedly is the most widespread human rights violations.

Founder of the Peridot Foundation Drs. Gracita Arrindell said in a media statement on Sunday: “Locally, we see an increased trend in reported news not only of violence against women. Acts of violence against children especially girls is on the rise as well. Additionally, the cases of mental health patients are on the rise as well. While some cases make headlines, there are too many cases that remain unreported. As in many other countries who are already in the process, we also must gather data, have programs and funding in order to criminalize all forms of violence against women and girls.”

“Peridot Foundation’s awareness program of December 1st, 2023, features two very experienced speakers who are highly recognized in their respective fields of work. Our main speaker is Mrs. Tomaro Pilgrim, founder of Tomaro’s C.H.A.N.G.E a non-profit organization located in Delaware, USA. Together with her spouse and co-founder Mr. Osrick Pilgrim whose family hails from Sint Maarten, this organization successfully provided community and family centered support services that is instrumental in guiding families that helps strengthen, encourage and guide youth and their families. Mrs. Pilgrim who has a master’s degree in counseling as well as a master’s degree in human services was delighted in accepting our invitation to share her twenty years of experience in her field of work.”

Also featured on our program by popular demand is local psychologist Ms. Zoya Hyman. Ms. Hyman was Peridot Foundation previous guest speaker. For those persons who missed her presentation, we encourage your presence to hear her views and solutions on Friday December 1st, 2023. The date and time of this program will be announced in a subsequent release.

Gracita concludes: “Peridot Foundation encourages you to save the date, be informed, be engaged, be supportive and committed towards eradicating violence against women and girls.”

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Swearing-in Ceremony of the Acting Governor, Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake

SINT MAARTEN (HABROUR VIEW) - “I bid you on behalf of my wife Janique and I, a good afternoon. Welcome to the oath taking ceremony of the Acting Governor of Sint Maarten,” His Excellency Governor Ajamu Baly said on Wednesday.

The Governor continued: “This will be the second Acting Governor of Sint Maarten. The first being the late Meester Reynold Groeneveldt, may his gentle soul continue to rest in peace. Mrs. Groeneveldt/His wife is with us this afternoon. Thank you for being here.

“The Governor is representative of the King in his capacity as head of the Government of Sint Maarten. Together with the ministers the Governor forms the Government of St. Maarten.

“The Governor is also representative of the Government of the Kingdom.

“The Acting Governor acts as Governor in the Governor's absence. This means that when doing so, in this case Her Excellency is fully authorized to exercise the office.

“In the quest for an acting Governor, Government sought to find someone with amongst others, the following characteristics:

  • An academic;
  • Good standing in the community;
  • Thorough knowledge of and relatable across all levels of our society;
  • A well-grounded person;
  • A person of integrity.

“These characteristics were sought after because in the role of Governor one has to be able to carefully and consistently stand objectively independent of political- and all parties.

“Safeguard the general interest of the Country and the Kingdom. Warn, advise, be consulted and if need be and hopefully on rare occasions, admonish. All of this while being available 24 hours a day 365 days a year. With all of this in mind the St. Maarten Government selected, the Kingdom Government nominated and His Royal Highness King Willem-Alexander, by Royal Decree appointed Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake as Acting Governor of St. Maarten.

“So, Dr. Bird-Lake though the task ahead may seem daunting, rest assured it is all for a good cause, namely the people of St. Maarten. And once that is at the forefront of all your decisions the path forward shall be clear.

“For you see the dual role of head of Government and representative of the Kingdom Government may seem to some to be a quagmire, but it is not, for the simple fact that at the core of both roles lies the responsibility and duty to serve in the best interest of the people of St. Maarten by promoting its well-being.

“This duty and responsibility is literally worded in the oath I will now administer to you Dr. Bird-Lake.”

Those in attendance for the oath-taking ceremony were:         

  • Prime Minister, Jacobs,
  • President of Parliament, Mr. Bijlani,
  • Acting Vice Chair of the Council of Advice, Philips,
  • Chairman of the Audit Chamber, Mr. Gumbs,
  • Council of Ministers,
  • Secretary General of the Council of Ministers,
  • Griffier of Parliament,
  • Head of the Dutch representation in Philipsburg,
  • Acting Commander of the Marine Detachment of St. Maarten,
  • Family and friends of the Acting Governor,
  • Members of my Cabinet and
  • Last but not least Acting Governor Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake

Swearing In Ceremony group

 

 

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