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Police Addresses Easter Weekend Preparations

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - As the Easter weekend approaches at the end of March, the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is gearing up for the anticipated increase in activities across the island. Traditionally, this period sees a surge in events and gatherings, particularly at Mullet Bay Beach, including camping activities.

In anticipation of the influx of visitors to Mullet Bay Beach, KPSM has engaged in discussions with the management of Mullet Bay property owners to address the potential traffic and parking challenges in the area. KPSM would like to announce that an agreement has been reached, ensuring additional parking spaces for beachgoers.

The management of Mullet Bay has made parking space available for patrons utilizing the beach. In addition to the regular public parking lot, extra parking spaces will be accessible behind the Golf Shop at the entrance of Rhine Road. This arrangement aims to alleviate congestion and facilitate a smoother flow of traffic in the vicinity.

It's important to note that this additional parking arrangement is temporary and specifically designated for the Easter weekend festivities.

However, in light of the existing congestion on Rhine Road leading to Cupe-Coy, we urge visitors to Mullet Bay Beach not to park their vehicles along the roadside. Any vehicle found obstructing the free flow of traffic will be subject to towing. Additionally, we kindly request that individuals refrain from parking on the Golf Course.

The cooperation and understanding of all beachgoers are essential in ensuring a safe and enjoyable Easter weekend for everyone. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these parking guidelines and encourage everyone to enjoy the festivities responsibly.

For further information or inquiries, please contact the Police Force of Sint Maarten@ +172154-22222

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Owners Requested to Retrieve Seized Scooters by Police

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) has been working over the past few months to ensure the safety and compliance of vehicles on our roads. As part of this effort, officers have seized numerous scooters that were found to be lacking the proper documentation or were not in compliance with technical requirements for public road use.

While we understand that this message may sound repetitive, it is imperative that KPSM reiterate the importance of adhering to the necessary legal and technical standards. Consequently, we are once again reaching out to the owners or legal representatives of these seized scooters, urging them to come forward with the required documentation to reclaim their vehicles.

We want to emphasize that the process for reclaiming these scooters must be followed, and it is vital for the public to be aware of their opportunity to retrieve their property. Failure to comply within a timely manner may result in the disposal of these vehicles in accordance with established procedures.

Therefore, we urge all affected individuals to contact the Sint Maarten Police Force to arrange for the retrieval of their scooters. This will not only ensure the proper handling of the vehicles but also contribute to the safety and regulation of our roads.

For further assistance or inquiries regarding the retrieval process, please contact the Sint Maarten Police Force at +1721 5542222

We appreciate the cooperation of the public in this matter.

POLICE seized scoot

 

 

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Students will receive citizen service number when applying for Dutch study financing

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - As of the 1st of April 2024, students from the Caribbean region who will be studying in the Netherlands will receive a citizen service number (BSN) when they apply for study financing. This will allow them to arrange a number of matters for their studies from the Caribbean region in advance. This fulfills a long cherished wish.

Until now it is only possible for students from Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius, Aruba, Curacao or St. Maarten to apply for a BSN when they register with a municipality upon arrival in the Netherlands.

As a result, they cannot arrange many things until they are in the Netherlands. In order to eliminate this bottleneck, the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO) in cooperation with the Ministry of Education (OCW), the Ministry of the Interior (BZK) and the National Office for Identity Data (RvIG) has ensured that Caribbean students will receive a BSN sooner. 

Request BSN by phone at DUO

For all applications for study financing from the Caribbean region submitted before and after the 1st of April for academic year 2024-2025, DUO will transmit the student's data to the National Office for Identity Data (RvIG).

Once RvIG has processed the data, RvIG sends a letter with the BSN to the student. Because mail to the Caribbean can take a long time, the student can also request the BSN by phone from DUO in advance.

What remains unchanged in the process, by the way, is that Caribbean students must still register with the municipality where they are going to live within five days of their arrival in the Netherlands.

Easier arrangement of affairs

With the BSN, students can already apply for a DigiD before leaving for the Netherlands, with which they can log in to websites of the Dutch government. For example, students can log in to My DUO and view the amount of their study funding, report changes and receive personal messages.

Students can also make an appointment with some municipalities in advance for registration in the municipality where they are going to live.

Information in the Caribbean

In the period of the 2nd through the 26th of April, DUO employees will be on all Caribbean islands to provide information about student grants to prospective students and their parents.

During these meetings they will also explain about the BSN and other matters that students need to arrange for their studies in the Netherlands. In addition, DUO will open a temporary service office on each of these islands, where students can drop by with questions. Former students can also stop by here with questions about repaying their study debt if they have one.

More information about the information meetings and temporary service offices can be found at duo.nl/bezoekantillen.

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Brace for Impact: Night of Hit Makers 2.0 Lights Up ALEEZE with Pulse-Pounding Performances

SINT MAARTEN (MADAME ESTATE) - Get ready for the most anticipated dance event of the year, as Night of Hit Makers 2.0, powered by Xtratight Entertainment takes center stage for two electrifying nights at Aleeze Convention Center and Event Hall.

Witness the legends of the Caribbean music scene as they set the stage on fire. The lineup includes the iconic Youth Waves from Saint Martin, the trailblazing Bouyon Pioneers - The Original WCK, and the dynamic duo of Claudius Philips & Oreo, returning to finish what they started. CD Rankin will be spinning tunes all night long.

Experience the rhythms of Dushi Korsou with ERA, alongside the sensational Jean Marc Ferdinand from Guadeloupe. The evening will be filled with non-stop dancing as Control Band takes the stage, with Deej Blackboy keeping the beats alive on the turntables. Both nights will be hosted by Uncle Shadz, ensuring a lively atmosphere and non-stop entertainment from start to finish.

Tickets are available in phases, with current pricing set at $35. Secure your spot at this unforgettable event by purchasing tickets from the following outlets Aleeze Box Office, Levi's Marigot, Adolphus Office Supplies, Domino's Bush Road and Cole Bay or contact Xtratight Team Member via 524-4872. Online Tickets are available via www.xtratight.com.

But that's not all! King Lottery has made this event even more thrilling! Every ticket holder (excluding complimentary ticket holders) has the chance to partake in the King Lottery Lotto Pool. Two lucky winners will walk away with $300,000 each, with one drawing on May 1 and another on May 2.

Mr. Bertaux "Rude" Fleming, the visionary behind Night of Hit Makers, is thrilled to announce this new chapter in the event's legacy. Despite limited space, Aleeze Convention Center and Event Hall offers the perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor vibes, creating an electrifying atmosphere for all attendees.

Thank you to our generous sponsors, King Lottery, SOS Radio, Kooyman and Simpson Bay Resorts, for joining us and making Night of Hit Makers 2.0 possible! Don't miss out on the ultimate dance event of the year! Join us for Night of Hit Makers 2.0 and experience music, rhythm, and excitement like never before. For more information and updates, visit www.xtratight.com or follow us on social media.

XTRA Youth Waves

Youth Waves

XTRA Claudius Philips

Claudius Philips

XTRA ERA

ERA

XTRA Jean March Ferdinand

Jean March Ferdinand

XTRA WCK

WCK

 

 

 

 

 

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MP Maingrette addresses Minister of Justice concerning crisis in Haiti and the Sint Maarten Haitian Community

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Member of Parliament (MP) Kevin Maingrette has formally written to caretaker Minister of Justice Anna E. Richardson to address the pressing concerns of the Haitian community in Sint Maarten during a time of deepening crisis in their homeland.

Against the backdrop of escalating unrest and a significant prison break involving around 4000 inmates in Haiti, Maingrette highlights the critical situation faced by the Haitian community, drawing attention to the potential implications for safety and stability in both countries.

The recent events have prompted concerns from the MP about the safety and fair treatment of Haitian nationals, particularly those undocumented, residing in Sint Maarten.

Maingrette's letter to Minister Richardson is a plea for humanitarian consideration amidst necessary border security measures, inquiring specifically about the steps the government is taking to prevent the deportation of Haitians back to their turmoil-stricken homeland. In the letter, the MP question how Sint Maarten intends to balance these security measures with compassion for those caught in the crisis, ensuring they are not forced back into a dangerous situation, and asks if the Minister has considered issuing a temporary moratorium on deportations for Haitians, given the current crisis in their home country

MP Maingrette further acknowledges the dual necessity of safeguarding Haitian nationals in Sint Maarten while also recognizing the need for strengthened border security measures. This stance stems from concerns over regional instability potentially affecting Sint Maarten, especially in light of the recent escape of 4000 prisoners in Haiti.

Maingrette urges for an approach that balances humanitarian support for Haitians with pragmatic border control to manage risks associated with the crisis, aiming to protect both the local and Haitian communities within the framework of international obligations.

Maingrette asked caretaker Minister Anna Richarson, to elucidate on the measures which are being taken to strengthen border security, and how these measures account for the fair treatment of individuals seeking refuge from violence and unrest.

Furthermore, Maingrette questions the nation's asylum procedures, considering Sint Maarten's limited resources and size, and how it is coordinating with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to accommodate those seeking refuge.

The MP's queries reflect a broader concern for adherence to international obligations and the humanitarian values that define Sint Maarten's community ethos.

As the situation in Haiti continues to develop, the responses and actions of Sint Maarten's government, as guided by the dialogue between MP Maingrette and Minister Richardson, will be closely watched by the community and international observers alike. The focus remains on balancing the need for security with the imperative of compassion.

 

 

 

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Launch and Free Giveaway for New Coloring Book This Saturday

SAINT-MARTIN (FRENCH QUARTER) - The Les Fruits de Mer association invites the public to celebrate the launch of a new coloring book, Soualiga Creatures. The free launch event will take place from 9am to noon this Saturday, March 16th at Amuseum Naturalis in French Quarter.

The new book spotlights the incredible insects and other little creatures of St. Martin. It will be given away for free at the launch. The event will also feature a coloring station, and a craft station where kids and adults can decorate creature-themed fabric bags. The author will be present for book signing. 

Soualiga Creatures is the latest in the association’s popular Soualiga series of multi-lingual “color and learn” books for young children. Earlier books in the series include Soualiga Island, Soualiga Sea, and Soualiga Birds. Future topics planned for the series include St. Martin plants and heritage.

“Soualiga is one of the Amerindian names for St. Martin,” said author Jenn Yerkes. “English is the most common language spoken on this island. But it’s been a richly multi-lingual place for a very long time! That’s why our association makes multi-lingual books for the kids here. In the Soualiga series, everything is in English, French, Spanish and Dutch.”

Soualiga Creatures stars some of the tiniest of St. Martin’s amazing animals, especially insects. It’s a great look at the fascinating little critters that fly, crawl, glide and jump around on this island. There is a visual guide on the back cover with vivid color photos of all the featured creatures. This encourages kids to learn what they look like, and spot them in the wild. Inside, kids will find a coloring page for each creature with its name in all four languages. Each one also has a page where they can practice writing the names of the creature.

“Reading and writing are key skills for everyone. This series makes it fun to learn them by showcasing wildlife from this island that kids can see around them, or discover through the books. We hear from St. Martin educators and parents that the local topics help kids connect more with reading and writing,” said Les Fruits de Mer co-founder Mark Yokoyama. “This series is especially designed to inspire kids to practice handwriting. And to give teachers a great tool to encourage their students to practice it, too!”

“With multi-lingual books, parents and family members who might speak a different language at home can participate in kids’ education,” added Jenn Yerkes. “Plus, it’s fun for everyone to learn creature names in different languages!”

The free launch event and book giveaway of Soualiga Creatures will be held at Amuseum Naturalis on Saturday, March 16th from 9am to noon, thanks to Delta Petroleum. Amuseum Naturalis is a free museum of nature and heritage located in French Quarter, St. Martin. It is open every day from sunrise to sunset.

The book is also available as a free download from http://lesfruitsdemer.com, and for purchase on amazon.com worldwide. Teachers and youth group leaders interested in copies are encouraged to contact Les Fruits de Mer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Companies, organizations or individuals interested in sponsoring copies for schools are also encouraged to contact the association. 

Free printed copies of Soualiga Creatures are being given to local schools and students as part of Les Fruits de Mer’s 2024 book giveaway program.This project is supported by the Politique de la ville de Saint-Martin, implemented by the State and the Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Distribution of this book to students in Sandy Ground is supported by the Cité Éducative de Saint-Martin. Soualiga Creatures was produced with support from the Collectivité de Saint-Martin and the Agence nationale de la cohésion des territoires.

Soualiga Creatures

Soualiga Creatures is the newest “color and learn” book, starring the little creatures of St. Martin.

 

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Tannia Road, South Reward Temporary Traffic Disruption Announcement

SINT MAARTEN (SOUTH REWARD) - The Ministry of VROMI (Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Infrastructure and Environment) is hereby announcing a traffic disruption on Tannia Road due to the progression of The Concrete Hard Surfacing Side Roads Project. The road will undergo resurfacing that will last a duration of three (3) to four (4) weeks, starting on Monday March 11th, 2023.

Kindly be advised that Windward Roads will be conducting the road repairs, with the supply of Sint Maarten Concrete. We urge all road users to exercise caution and remain vigilant of the workers during their operations.

Traffic Disruption Details:

Date and Time: From Monday March 11th from 7 AM to 4 PM for the duration of three (3) to four (4) weeks.

Location: Tannia Road, South Reward

Stay updated on The Concrete Hard Surfacing Side Roads Project by visiting our official government website and Facebook page.

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UNESCO IOC Welcomes Tadzio Bervoets as Chair of the Ocean Decade Task Force for Latin America and the Caribbean

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is pleased to announce the appointment of Tadzio Bervoets, a renowned conservation professional from Sint Maarten, as the new Chairman of the IOC’s Ocean Decade Task Force for Latin America and the Caribbean. This significant appointment underscores the Task Force's commitment to enhancing marine science and conservation efforts across the region. 

The IOC, with its 150 Member States, spearheads global cooperation in marine science, ocean services, and capacity building to support sustainable ocean management. In Latin America and the Caribbean, the IOC operates through its regional subsidiary, IOCARIBE, fostering international collaboration and coordinating crucial research and development initiatives in the Tropical Americas and the Caribbean. 

Bervoets brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role. As Chair, he will guide the Task Force in its mission to harness ocean science for the sustainable development of the region, reinforcing the significance of marine research and the application of scientific knowledge in policy-making and management practices. 

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Bervoets said, "I am honored to lead the Ocean Decade Task Force for Latin America and the Caribbean at this pivotal time. Our oceans are invaluable assets, and it is imperative that we understand and protect them to ensure a sustainable future for all. Together, with the support of IOC Member States and our regional partners, we will strive to advance marine science, foster collaboration, and facilitate impactful initiatives that benefit our oceans and coastal communities." 

Under the auspices of IOCARIBE, the Task Force will continue to engage with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, scientific institutions, and Member States, to promote regional and global ocean science initiatives. This collaborative approach aims to enhance scientific knowledge, inform policy decisions, and support the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources in the region. 

The dedication of IOCARIBE and the Task Force to advancing oceanographic science and fostering regional cooperation marks a significant step toward achieving the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030). With Mr. Bervoets at the helm, the Task Force is poised to make substantial contributions to the understanding and stewardship of our shared ocean heritage. 

For more information, please visit https://iocaribe.ioc-unesco.org/en

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Happy International Women's Day to the incredible women of WICSU-PSU Union and women everywhere

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Today, March 8, 2024, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and accomplishments of women in every corner of the world, the WICSU-PSU Union said in a press statement on Friday.

“As President of our union, I am continually inspired by the dedication and passion that each of you brings to our organization and to your respective roles.

“Let us take this opportunity to recognize and honor the contributions of women in shaping our society, our workplaces, and our communities. Together, we have shattered barriers, challenged stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations.

“As we commemorate this day, let us also reaffirm our commitment to gender equality, diversity, and inclusivity. Let us strive to create environments where every woman feels empowered to reach her full potential, where her voice is heard, and her rights are respected.

“I am proud to stand alongside each and every one of you as we continue to advocate for gender equality and work towards a more just and equitable world. Happy International Women's Day,” Sharon Cangieter, President of WICSU-PSU Union concluded.

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NV GEBE to Start Repair and Renovation Works, Scaffolding Installation, and Plastering Works

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - NV GEBE hereby informs the general public on the upcoming essential repair and renovation works at our Main Building in Philipsburg, starting on Saturday, March 9th.

This project includes the removal of laminated paneling and subsequent plastering to enhance the safety and aesthetics of our premises.

The repair and renovation works are expected to span approximately six weeks, concluding on or about April 21, 2024. During this period, it is crucial to ensure the safety and awareness of everyone entering our premises.

Key points to note:

  1. Scaffolding Installations: Scaffolding will be erected around the building from Saturday, March 9, 2024, to facilitate the removal of existing laminating panels and commence the plastering process. Please exercise caution when walking in the vicinity.
  2. Customer Care and Cashier/Payment Section: Access to our customer care area and cashier/payment section will be maintained throughout the project. We kindly request your cooperation in navigating around the scaffolding to ensure your safety.
  3. Safety Considerations: Please be assured that all necessary safety measures have been implemented to safeguard our clients and the public during this repair and renovation works period. Our team has taken every precaution to minimize potential risks associated with the removal and plastering process.
  4. Cautionary Measures: We urge all individuals visiting our premises from March 9th onwards to exercise caution, follow designated pathways, and adhere to any safety guidelines provided.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this period of improvement. Should you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Customer Care Team at 1 721 546 1100.

NV GEBE thanks its customers for their cooperation, and we look forward to providing you with an even better and safer environment.

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