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CPS: World Mental Health Day theme “Mental Health at Work”

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – Thursday 10 October marks World Mental Health Day around the world. Mental health is a universal human right underscoring the importance of ensuring everyone has the right to access quality mental health care and support.

The 2024 theme is “Mental Health at Work.”

This World Mental Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) is uniting with partners to highlight the vital connection between mental health and work.

“Safe, healthy working environments can act as a protective factor for mental health. Unhealthy conditions including stigma, discrimination, and exposure to risks like harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks, affecting mental health, overall quality of life and consequently participation or productivity at work.

“With 60% of the global population in work, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents risks to mental health and protects and supports mental health at work.

“It is essential for governments, employers, the organizations which represent workers and employers, and other stakeholders responsible for workers’ health and safety to work together to improve mental health at work.

“Action to address mental health at work should be done with the meaningful involvement of workers and their representatives, and persons with lived experience of mental health conditions.

“By investing efforts and resources in evidence-based approaches and interventions at work, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive at work and in life. Let's take action today for a healthier future,” the WHO said.

Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well, and work well, and contribute to their community.  Mental health is a basic human right.

Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department from the Sint Maarten Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, says creating awareness about mental health is part of CPS’ annual calendar of health observances.

For persons who need support, the Sint Maarten Mental Health Organization (MHF) provides psychiatric care services to the population of the country.  Its mission includes prevention to mitigate as much as possible the negative impact of mental disorders on individual’s wellbeing and on society.

For general information on mental health issues, you can call 542-1677 or for a mental health crisis, you can call the crisis line 520-5556 which will be answered by a professional and it’s confidential.

For more information, you can call CPS 542-1570 or 914.

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Scooter/Motorcycle Rider Hit and Run in Sucker Garden on Sunday

SINT MAARTEN (SUCKER GARDEN) – The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) Traffic Department is currently investigating a hit and run that occurred on Sunday afternoon after 2:30 pm near El Capitan on Sucker Garden Road.

A male pedestrian who was crossing the road has possibly suffered a broken leg and injuries to his face.

The Police Central Dispatch received a call about the accident. The scooter/motorcycle is described as black.

After the accident, the culprit fled the scene leaving the victim seriously injured on the ground.

The Police is requesting assistance from the community who may have witnessed what transpired.

The Ambulance has taken the victim to the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) for further treatment.

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NEW AIRPORT ARRIVAL HALL WILL BE OPEN SOON FOR PASSENGERS

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY-AIRPORT) - Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is pleased to announce an important milestone in the countdown towards the opening of its state-of the art terminal building. On October 7, 2024, Constructor Ballast Nedam International Projects will officially hand over the key to the newly completed arrival hall and baggage reclaim area. This marks a major step forward in the airport's ongoing redevelopment.

Following the handover, the airport's staff will begin the final preparations for the opening, which includes thorough cleaning and setting up services such as customs, immigration, and baggage handling. These efforts are essential to ensure the brand-new arrival area is fully operational and ready to welcome all arriving passengers to the island of St. Maarten.

The new arrival hall will open its doors to passengers on October 15, 2024. This momentous occasion signifies the end of the use of the Temporary Arrival Facility tent, which has served the airport during the construction period.

Princess Juliana International Airport would like to express its sincere gratitude to Ballast Nedam International Projects for their dedication and hard work on this project. The airport also extends its thanks to all stakeholders and the community of St. Maarten for their patience and support throughout this phase of redevelopment.

To celebrate this remarkable achievement, the airport will host an official reopening ceremony for the terminal building on November 14, 2024. Details of this event will be shared in the coming weeks.

The new Arrival Hall features:

  • Improved baggage handling systems for faster and more efficient luggage retrieval.
  • Streamlined immigration and customs processes designed to minimize waiting times.
  • Enhanced passenger facilities aimed at providing a more comfortable and seamless arrival experience.

Prioritizing a Seamless Travel Experience

Throughout the construction phases, PJIAE has ensured that ongoing airport operations remain unaffected. Travelers continue to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience, with uninterrupted services.

Commercial Director Michiel Parent states: "We’re almost there now. In less than a month from now, all passengers can enjoy the new arrival hall. I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished. We’re now looking forward to our grand opening in November this year.”

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Victorious Living Grants: Empowering Individuals & Organizations to Access Vital Project Funding

SINT MAARTEN (ST. PETERS) - Many individuals, for-profits, and non-profits shy away from applying for grants due to various misconceptions. Based on Victorious Living’s experience of over 20 years as a foundation, the visionary and director Dr. Erna Mae Francis Cotton and team have been able to secure substantial grants to execute its mentorship program, and a variety of other projects for youth and families.

Consequently, in light of the many needs in our communities, this article aims to debunk the top three myths about grant applications and provide you with the correct information to increase your chances of obtaining funding.

Myth 1: Grants Are Only for Non-Profits

Reality: While it's true that many grants are specifically designed for non-profits, there's a growing number of funding opportunities available to individuals and for-profit businesses. These grants can support a wide range of projects, including research, innovation, community development, and even individual artistic endeavors.

Myth 2: Grant Writing Is Too Complicated

Reality: While grant writing does require careful planning and attention to detail, it is not an insurmountable task. Many grants come with detailed guidelines and examples to help you through the process. Additionally, there are numerous resources and templates available online to assist you.

Tip: Start with smaller grant applications if you’re new to the process. This will help you build your skills and confidence before tackling larger, more complex applications.

Myth 3: Only Big Organizations Win Grants

Reality: Small organizations and even individuals have an equal opportunity to win grants, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and their proposal aligns with the funder’s priorities. Grant applications are judged on the merit of the project, the feasibility of the proposed activities, and the potential impact.

Success Story: A local community center successfully won a grant to fund a new after-school program by clearly articulating the need and expected benefits for local children.

Do not let myths prevent you from seeking out funding opportunities that could greatly benefit your initiatives. By understanding the truths behind these common misconceptions, you can approach grant applications with confidence and clarity. Remember, the key to successful grant writing is preparation, persistence, and leveraging available resources.

Victorious Living Grants are available to assist in sourcing and writing grants for individuals, businesses, and organizations. You may email us for further information to secure funding for your projects at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; call: +1-721-522-2084 or WhatsApp +1-721-524-8731.

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Culinary Influencer set to visit Sint Maarten for St. Maarten Flavors Pre-Promotions

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Chef Ray, the influencer behind Pretty Girls Eat Too, with over 144,000 followers and a reach of 1.7 million, is scheduled to visit Sint Maarten from September 27th to 30th to generate pre-promotion for the much-anticipated St. Maarten Flavors 2024 edition in November.

During her stay, Chef Ray will enjoy luxurious accommodations at the JW Marriot while immersing herself in the island’s rich culinary heritage. She is looking to engage in hands-on cooking experiences and delicious meals at participating St. Maarten Flavors restaurants, showcasing the unique flavors that St. Maarten has to offer. Chef Ray will be documenting her St. Maarten gastronomic journey for her travel blog, sharing insights into her culinary adventures with her global audience.

Chef Ray, a seasoned private chef, caterer, cooking class instructor, and recipe creator, has built a dedicated following over her 11-year career. Her platform, Pretty Girls Eat Too, is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year, and she continues to keep her fans engaged with restaurant reviews, travel blogs, and exciting culinary content across social media channels like Instagram and TikTok.

As part of her visit, Chef Ray will explore the diverse cuisines featured in this year’s St. Maarten Flavors program. She will visit several participating restaurants where they will not only savor delectable cuisine, but also get involved in the process of getting the food on the table. The influencer and her boyfriend will try out the lunch menus of the Flavor month November at JW Marriott, Pure Ocean and Seaview. They will have dinner at Jax Steakhouse, La Patrona and D’s Beach Bar. Besides that, they will also go to Zee Best for breakfast and to their baking shop to bake and decorate a cake. These restaurants, each highlighting a distinct culinary style — from Caribbean and European to Asian, American, and Vegetarian — were early to sign up to the St. Maarten Flavors program and will benefit from this additional exposure.

Beyond the culinary experience, Chef Ray will enjoy a variety of island activities to further explore the beauty of Sint Maarten. Their adventures will include watersports with Aqua Mania, a Toppers Rhum Tour, a mural walk through Philipsburg, and a relaxing horseback ride at sunset. This coverage will put St. Maarten on the map with a wider target audience, showcasing not just the fabulous food that can be enjoyed on the island, but also a number of popular activities.

Restaurants interested in joining the St. Maarten Flavors 2024 program can still sign up and take advantage of early registration perks.

  • A personalized influencer video showcasing your restaurant (first come first serve)
  • Boosted Facebook posts announcing your participation and signature dish
  • An in-depth Facebook story highlighting your cuisine and chef
  • Media coverage with an article in The Daily Herald (with a $60 minimum advertisement)
  • Opportunities for radio interviews (first come first serve)

A fantastic opportunity to showcase your establishment to a global audience. St. Maarten Flavors is not just a celebration of local cuisine, but an opportunity to attract new customers, grow your brand, and showcase your culinary talents. Sign up today to be part of this exciting event and take advantage of these exclusive promotional opportunities!

St. Maarten Flavors is celebrating its third edition and grateful for the partnership of St. Maarten Tourism Bureau and sponsors : PDG Supplies, Orco Bank, Prime Distributors, Visit St. Maarten, SXM Talks, The Daily Herald and Winair. Of course, the many restaurants that decided on an early sign up to benefit from continuous promotions should soon be joined by many other establishments offering 1 course or 3 course options throughout the month of November.

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Let’s Talk About Sex TOO & Men’s Night Out

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - In recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the Positive and Elektralyets Foundations have partnered with Collective Prevention Services (CPS) to host a special two-part event: Let’s Talk About Sex TOO and Men’s Night Out. This engaging event aims to raise awareness about prostate cancer and other men’s health issues.

CPS emphasizes the importance of community education and dialogue on men’s health issues. Their collaboration with the Positive and Elektralyets Foundations aligns with their mission to enhance public health through preventative measures and awareness campaigns, promoting a higher quality of life for all.

The event will be held September 26th, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Government Administration Building, Conference Room 1, located on Soualiga Road, Pond Island, Great Bay. The Let’s talk About Sex Too prostate cancer awareness panel will feature prominent speakers, including:

  • Dr. Danny Dennaoui, St. Maarten Diagnostic Center
  • Mr. Ahmad Gumbs, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Foundation
  • Mr. Gordon Snow, Prostate Cancer Survivor

This two-hour event will provide valuable insights about prostate cancer, its effects on men’s health, and the impact of treatments on sexual health. Hosted in collaboration with CPS, and Benu Pharmacy, organizers extend a special invitation to all men on St. Maarten aged 40 and above.

Why Attend?

According the to Global Cancer Observatory, prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, making awareness about early detection and its effects on overall and sexual health critical. Treatments like surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy can result in side effects such as erectile dysfunction or decreased libido. Open conversations with healthcare providers are crucial for managing these side effects.

Understanding risk factors like age, family history, and ethnicity helps individuals make informed health decisions. Regular screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, are vital for early detection and improved treatment outcomes.

This event will provide a platform for open discussion on prevention, early detection, and the potential impact of prostate cancer on sexual health.

Open dialogue can help break the stigma surrounding prostate cancer and encourage men to take proactive steps toward their health. Since launching the “Man Up Check Up” campaign in 2019 in partnership with St. Maarten Medical Center, the foundations have been committed to spreading awareness and promoting early screenings, leading to better health outcomes for men in St. Maarten.

Program for the Evening:

  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Men’s Night Out – Happy Hour (Sponsored by ILTT International Liquors and Tobacco)
  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Let’s Talk About Sex TOO – Prostate Cancer Awareness Panel Discussion with interactive Q&A

Last year, over 100 men attended this event, engaging in discussions, sharing personal experiences, and asking insightful questions. The openness and honesty of the discussions provided a strong foundation for breaking the silence surrounding men’s health, particularly prostate cancer.

The Positive and Elektralyets Foundations, and CPS hope this event will continue to inspire men in the community to prioritize their health and take action toward prostate cancer awareness and early detection.

For more information, visit Positive Foundations or The Positive Foundation on Facebook. You may also call +1-721-580-9658 or +1-721-523-7418, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dr. Danny Denaoui headshot 2024

Dr. Danny Denaoui

 

 

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CDFHA and Kingdom Courtyard Host Successful Info Session on Grief Counseling

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Department of Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs (CDFHA), through its Women's Desk, in collaboration with Kingdom Courtyard, successfully hosted an informative session on grief counseling on Saturday, September 21, at the Government Administration Office.

The session, moderated by Ms. Ramona Riley, was well attended, offering participants the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of grief, its causes, and various coping mechanisms. Attendees were also introduced to Mr. and Mrs. Cabey, founders of Kingdom Courtyard, along with its members, Dr. Tasheena Thomas and Mrs. Zoya Hyman, both seasoned professionals in the field of counseling. A significant highlight of the event was when several parents shared their personal stories of losing a child and spoke about the profound positive impact the counseling services have had on their healing journeys. Additionally, they encouraged attendees to make use of the available services, stressing the importance of seeking support during such challenging times.

CDFHA, is an executing department within the Ministry of VSA whose mission is to deliver efficient and high-quality services in the areas of community development, family support, and humanitarian affairs, emphasized the importance of this collaboration with Kingdom Courtyard. Together, they aim to provide much-needed counseling services and establish support groups for individuals dealing with grief. Recognizing that grief, when left unaddressed, can have profound effects on individuals, families, and the community at large, CDFHA is committed to ensuring these services continue beyond Kingdom Courtyard's initial eight-month funding period under the R4CR (Resources for Community Resilience) program.

Both organizations acknowledged the positive impact the grief counseling services have had thus far, as well as the growing demand for these services. Grief is a complex issue that many people struggle to talk about or even recognize. Some are unaware they are experiencing it, while others may not know that support is available to them. In light of this, CDFHA and Kingdom Courtyard are proud to offer these services at the Gaston Boasman Community Helpdesk for the Elderly & Disabled, located in Hope Estate.

Minister Jansen - Webster who was also in attendance and shared her personal story on grief, applauded the partnership between CDFHA and Kingdom Courtyard, commending their efforts to provide vital services to those in need.

For more information, please contact Women's Desk via WhatsApp at +1 (721) 520-6291 or Kingdom Courtyard at +1 (721) 550-3212.

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Storybook Ti Koko and Kush Kush at Van Dorp bookstore

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The new printing of Ti Koko and Kush Kush by Patricia G. Turnbull is at Van Dorp bookstore, Simpson Bay, just in time for Literacy Month, said publisher Jacqueline Sample.

Here’s one for home, school, library, community center, babysitting, or Sunday school, said Sample. “Patricia Turnbull magically weaves this precious work for our children” about the importance of nature for our future, said Tadzio Bervoets, a leading St. Martin environmentalist.

The “brilliantly crafted story” is “about a happy little coconut tree and a friendly, wise yam and the power of friendship,” working together to save their Caribbean Island beach community, said Dr. Nicole Phillip-Dowe, UWI, Grenada.

The hardcover, color illustrated storybook, published in St. Martin by House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP), is also available at Arnia’s Bookstore, Zagersgut Road/Bush Road.

“Our children’s books, like Ti Koko, are for the joy of reading at home. And they are ‘cross-curricular resource’ titles, with richly illustrated stories set in St. Martin and other islands, perfect for our classrooms,” said HNP president Sample.

Talking about storybooks and literary texts for improving literacy and supporting the curriculum, HNP books have been busy here in September for Literacy Month. The month’s activities are inspired by International Literacy Day, observed annually on September 8.

Several St. Martin writers, government officials, and other guests have read at primary schools on the island. HNP authors have been in the mix, with performative readings to school children. Our indie press writers have read from their own books and from books by other St. Martin authors and writers from around the world.

“It was exciting to see social media posts of Faizah Tabasamu read from her poetry book Tangle to a packed assembly of attentive little ones at Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School,” said Sample.

“At MAC primary, Dr. Rhoda Arrindell read kids-accessible hurricane poems from the literary/earth science textbook Disaster Matters. She then performed selections from Lizzy Lizard’s storybook journey around the Great Salt Pond, for Teacher Elisia Lake’s class at Martin Luther King, Jr. Primary school,” said Sample. 

Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman was also a selected book for guest reader Hon. Anna Richardson at Teacher Amanda James-Nicholas’ Grade 2 class at the MAC, said Sample.

“The writing quality, and the book design and production of these books also make for a competitive fit for classrooms anywhere that are seeking original St. Martin stories and fascinating Caribbean experiences,” said Sample.

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Men’s Health Awareness Day at St. Maarten Medical Center on Saturday

SINT MAARTEN (CAY HILL) - The Positive and Elektralyets Foundations, in collaboration with St. Maarten Laboratory Services, St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), and NAPA Auto Parts, are pleased to announce a follow-up event for the recent prostate cancer screenings.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
  • Time: From 9:00 AM to 2 PM
  • Location: St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) in Cayhill

Join us for the annual Men’s Health Day, where we will review the PSA test results from the screenings held on September 7 and 14. This event will also feature a variety of other health screenings and informative sessions aimed at promoting men’s health and wellness. On September 21, we have partnered with the St. Maarten Aids Foundation, SZV, Guardian Group, FLOW and the SMMC team will be present to provide additional support and information. Please note that we will not be doing any PSA testing of September 21, 2024.

Screening Recap:

  • On September 7, 213 men received a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test performed by the St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS) AND
  • On September 14, 162 men were tested for PSA. Bringing the total number of men tested to 375. The Foundations issued 100 vouchers to cover the uninsured.

“We are committed to improving men’s health in our community,” said Shelly Alphonso, President of the Positive Foundation. “Early detection of prostate cancer can save lives, and we encourage all eligible men to participate in these screenings and follow-up events.”

For more information, please contact Shelly Alphonso or Mercedes Van Der Waals Wyatt at +1-721-580-9658 or +1-721-523-7418, or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SMMC next sat

SMMC follow up sat

 

 

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Police Urges Owners to Retrieve Confiscated Scooters and Motorcycles

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is again calling on all owners of scooters and motorcycles that have been confiscated due to non-compliance with traffic laws and other regulations to take immediate action to reclaim their vehicles. These impounded vehicles have been stored at police headquarters for an extended period of time.

While it may seem that these types of announcements are repetitive, it is important to emphasize that this is part of the process of good governance. KPSM remains committed to transparency and ensuring that the public is well-informed and provided with the necessary opportunities to resolve these matters. Through these notifications, vehicle owners are given ample time to take action, recover their property, and avoid the permanent forfeiture of their vehicles.

To retrieve your scooter or motorcycle, owners are required to present the following documents:

  • Proof of ownership
  • Valid insurance
  • A driver's license for the appropriate category
  • Payment of road taxes
  • A valid inspection card, as mandated by law

Failure to reclaim your vehicle within a reasonable timeframe may result in permanent forfeiture, with KPSM reserving the right to dispose of unclaimed vehicles, including the possibility of having them destroyed.

Owners are urged to act promptly to avoid the loss of their property. For assistance or to arrange the release of your vehicle, please contact KPSM at 54-22222.

KPSM remains committed to promoting traffic safety and ensuring compliance with all road regulations. We appreciate the public's cooperation in maintaining safety and order on the roads of Sint Maarten.

POlice bikes in the yard mon16

POlice bikes more mon16

 

 

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