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Maduro & Curiel's Bank announces updates to its Management Board

SINT MAARTEN/CURACAO - Maduro & Curiel’s Bank (MCB) announces that Bill Said, a current member of the Management Board, will be appointed as MCB Group Head in addition to his current role of Managing Director effective May 1, 2025.

In this role he will assume the business line responsibilities of Michael de Sola, who has decided to leave the bank after fifteen years on MCB’s Management Board. Michael remains available as needed through 2025 to ensure a smooth transition. In addition, Cris van Kempen, currently Chief Risk Officer for MCB for the past five years, will join the Management Board as of July 1, 2025.

Lionel (Chicu) Capriles II, President & CEO of MCB, fully respects Michael’s decision. “Michael has a long track record on our Management Board and his contributions have been exemplary. On behalf of all of us at MCB I would like to thank Michael enormously for his significant contributions and appreciate that he will continue to be available this year to ensure a seamless handover.

Bill has been on our Management Board for over two years now and has helped the bank reach new heights. His strong focus on customer experience and exposure to international best practices will serve the bank and its customers well. I am also pleased that Cris will join the Management Board, ensuring risk expertise is well represented in our leadership team. Having both Bill and Cris on the Management Board with their familiarity with our bank and community ensures strong continuity.”

In an explanation of his decision, Michael says: “I have had a fantastic time at MCB, with wonderful colleagues and loyal customers. After fifteen years I now want to explore other challenges outside the bank. MCB is in a good position, so I can make this change later this year with peace of mind.”

Bill Said adds: “MCB is very active in the local economy and Chicu, Michael and I are fully aligned in understanding the importance of the bank to the community. It is an honor to serve the bank, its clients and other stakeholders, and I look forward to continuing and expanding our strong relationships in all the islands we serve.

Cris van Kempen comments: “It is a privilege to join the Management Board of a bank with such a strong legacy and important role in the community. I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue building on our success and contributing to the bank’s stability and growth.”

Cris van Kempen’s appointment to the Management Board is subject to customary regulatory and shareholder approval.

The succession process for a new President & CEO is fully on schedule. In March 2024, Chicu announced that he will step down in 2025. The bank’s Supervisory Board immediately started a process for a successor, and it is well on track.

The Supervisory Board’s priority is to ensure continuity in the Management Board, maintaining the bank’s long tradition of stability, excellence and service.

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2025 Motor Vehicle Stickers Now Available. Secure Stickers Before February 28 Deadline

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Tax Administration of Sint Maarten is pleased to announce that the distribution of the 2025 Motor Vehicle Stickers will officially begin on January 24, 2025. To ensure an organized and efficient process, residents will receive their stickers according to their designated vehicle category.

The distribution will occur in three stages. The first phase will begin on January 24, 2025, with the allocation of stickers to vehicles classified under the (M) category, lasting for one week. The second phase will begin lasting one week on February 3, for individuals with (P) category plates and all other vehicle classifications will begin on February 10.

To obtain a sticker, residents must provide proof of payment, valid insurance and an inspection card. Payments can be completed through three convenient methods: online payment through credit or debit cards (excluding Maestro), bank transfers, or in person payments with cash, maestro, or credit/debit cards.

Online payments through credit or debit cards can be made via services.sintmaartengov.org. It is important to have your valid insurance, inspection, and, if applicable, a bill of sale ready for upload during the online payment process.

Bank transfers can be made using the following details:

Windward Island Bank (WIB):

USD Account: 324800-05

Naf. Account: 324800-03

RBC Royal Bank:

USD Account: 8200000403930461

Naf. Account: 8200000005425048

For those opting to pay via Online Banking, it is essential to include your name and vehicle plate number in the payment description. Once the transfer is completed, receipts and stickers can be collected at the Receivers Office within three to five working days, provided that your valid inspection and insurance documents are presented.

Cash and Maestro payments can be made at the Receivers Office on Pond Island, and Public Service Center (PSC) in Simpson Bay daily from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Please note that only three transactions are allowed per person. To assist businesses and families with more than three vehicles, we encourage you to submit proof of payment, valid insurance and an inspection card in a sealed envelope at the Receivers Office, including your name and contact number. This will allow us to schedule a pickup on a designated date and time for a more streamlined process. The deadline to take advantage of this service is February 17, 2025.

To enhance service accessibility, seniors aged 62 and older will be assisted at Window 6. Additionally, taxpayers are encouraged to park in the APS parking lot adjacent to the Government Building for convenience when visiting the Receivers Office.

All residents should note that the final deadline to complete payments for the 2025 Motor Vehicle Stickers will be February 28, 2025.

For further details, individuals can contact the Receivers Office at 542-2143, 542-5300, 542-5304, or 542-3839, or reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Gasoline and Diesel prices to be adjusted on Thursday

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) – On Thursday, January 23, fuel pump prices will be adjusted for gasoline and diesel. 

The current price of unleaded gasoline is Naf.2.231 per liter, will be adjusted to the new price of Naf.2.294 per liter.

The current price of diesel is Naf.1.835 per liter, will be adjusted to the new price of Naf.1.950 per liter.

The Government of Sint Maarten regulates the prices of petroleum products by imposing a maximum price at which wholesalers and retailers can sell these products in the country to motorists.

At the international level, the prices of crude oil have experienced adjustments and local prices follow the international trend, and therefore prices are adjusted to reflect this. 

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Inspectorate IETA Instructs Holders of Passenger Transport Permits to Register

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Inspectorate of Economic and Transport Affairs (IETA) instructs all holders of a passenger transport permit to register their operation with the Transport Control Unit no later than Tuesday, February 25, 2025, to receive a confirmation letter.

The confirmation letter validates that the operation’s documentation and vehicle meet the applicable regulations to carry out service. In prior years, the annual confirmation letter process was solely conducted to pay the annual road tax payments.

However, due to an alarming rise in fraudulent activities and concerning preliminary findings from ongoing investigations, the process is adopting a stricter and more secure approach for 2025. Failure to comply with this process may result in severe penalties, including potential suspension or revocation of a holder’s permit.

The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication, Grisha Heyliger-Marten reiterates that this directive is non-negotiable and applies to all individuals and businesses in the industry without exception. This measure is a critical step to uphold integrity, efficiency, transparency, accountability and most importantly fairness.

Starting January 16, 2025, operators will be able to submit their documentation through a secure online form available through a QR-code and website link. The documentation includes the following:

  • Original or authentic copy of the primary permit.
  • Valid vehicle insurance policy (must mention validity period and vehicle plate number).
  • Valid motor vehicle inspection card
  • Valid Sint Maarten driver’s license.
  • Valid Sint Maarten identification card or Dutch Passport.

For operators with an assistant driver, the following documentation must also be submitted.

  • A valid Assistant Driver’s Permit
  • Valid Sint Maarten driver’s license.
  • Valid Sint Maarten identification card or Dutch Passport.
  • An authorization letter signed by the permit holder or a power of attorney statement confirming an active work relationship between both parties (No older than 30 days).

Companies managing 5 or more vehicles equipped with a T-, G-, or R-plate must submit a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet with the details of each vehicle (make, model, year, and VIN), a digital copy of all valid motor vehicle inspection cards and valid insurance policies.

The spreadsheet template can be requested from the Transport Control Unit by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. A date for the fleet inspection will be arranged separately once all digital files have been received and reviewed.

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SVOBE Reminds Parents/Guardians of Q&A Session Set for Tuesday Evening

SINT MAARTEN (CUL DE SAC) - The management of SVOBE schools (Milton Peters College and Sundial School) would like to remind the parent(s)/guardian(s) of 5th and 6th grade students (Group 7 & 8) at primary schools about the upcoming Q&A information session for prospective students of the SVOBE schools.

Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Milton Peters College

During this session, representatives from both schools will provide valuable information about the education offered at SVOBE schools (Sundial School and Milton Peters College).

Parents and guardians will have the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers to help them make well-informed decisions when completing the Educational Report.

We look forward to welcoming you on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Milton Peters College.

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SUNDAY EVENING FIRE IN CUL DE SAC HILLS

SINT MAARTEN (CUL DE SAC) - Residents in the Killebard, Catapult Drive, and surrounding areas, please be advised of an ongoing fire in the hills of Cul de Sac, the police said early Sunday evening.

The incident was reported on January 19th, 2025, shortly after 6:00 PM. Police and fire department teams have been dispatched to the location and are working to extinguish the fire.

“For your safety, part of L.B. Scott Road has been partially closed, and authorities are urging nearby residents to evacuate the area due to the heavy smoke and potential hazards,” the police appealed to the public and motorists.

The police have also requested the public and motorists to follow instructions from emergency personnel and avoid the area if possible.

Stay safe and updated as the situation develops.

police fire in the bush

 

 

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“Dreaming Forward,” new generation, new challenges: The 38th annual MLK, Jr. Lecture at USM Jan. 15

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The 38th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture, the island of St. Martin’s longstanding cultural opener for the new year, is set to inspire.

The lecture will take place at the University of St. Martin (USM), Philipsburg, on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM.

Former law enforcement official and guest speaker Dr. Patricia Helliger will address the 2025 theme, “Dreaming Forward” as it relates to a new generation and new challenges, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation, the lecture organizer.

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KPSM Hosts CARICOM Delegation to Discuss Regional Law Enforcement Collaboration

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) had the honor of hosting two distinguished representatives from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) during a working visit on Friday, January 10, 2025. The meeting was held at the police station in Philipsburg and provided an opportunity to explore avenues for collaboration on critical issues in law enforcement.

The discussions centered on key topics, including the enhancement of information-sharing mechanisms and the development of strategies to address shared challenges in law enforcement and public safety across the Caribbean region. Chief of Police Carl John emphasized the importance of cultivating strong regional partnerships to bolster security and stability, underscoring the benefits such collaborations bring to all CARICOM member states.

Looking forward, collaboration in other fields is anticipated once a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is formalized with KPSM.

KPSM expresses its profound gratitude to the CARICOM representatives for their visit and their dedication to fostering meaningful partnerships within the region. The Sint Maarten Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to strengthening regional alliances that further the collective objectives of justice, public safety, and security.

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Remember The Times Hosts Soup Sale Fundraiser to Prepare for French side & Dutch Carnival 2025

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – Remember The Times, the vibrant Soca band loved for its lively performances and Caribbean spirit, is thrilled to announce their upcoming Soup Sale Fundraiser in preparation for the French side & Dutch Carnival 2025 season.

The fundraising event will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Jocelyn Arndell Festival Village, Booth #76. Guests can expect a fun-filled morning of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and energizing music, all in support of the band's journey to the 2025 Sint Maarten Carnival.

What to Expect:

  • Delicious Soups: Choose from a variety of flavors including Pigtail, Chicken, Souse, and Fish. Each soup is just $10, and comes with two Johnny Cakes.
  • Drinks On Sale: Stay refreshed with a selection of beverages available for purchase.
  • Entertainment: Enjoy the vibrant beats of a live DJ while supporting a wonderful cause.

Limited quantities are available, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to grab their favorite soups and join the festivities. The fundraiser promises to bring the community together through great food, refreshing drinks, and lively music, showcasing the spirit of Sint Maarten’s culture.

Remember The Times is dedicated to delivering a spectacular performance at the French side & Dutch Carnival 2025 season, and this fundraiser is an important step in achieving that goal.

Join us for an unforgettable morning and help support the band as they prepare to bring their best to the Carnival stage. For tickets you can contact us via social media or call 590-690-22-5744 or 1-721-587-1989

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Preparations Underway to Ring in 2025 at the Great Bay Fireworks Display

PORT ST. MAARTEN – Port St. Maarten Group (PSG) is excited to announce that preparations are underway for the annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks display in Great Bay at midnight on Tuesday, December 31.

PSG is thrilled to bring the New Years Fireworks display once again to the community and stakeholders for a night of fun and celebration while ringing in the new year 2025.

“The 2024-2025 high cruise season kicked off with a bang. 2024 has been a very good year for cruise tourism for the destination, and we are looking forward to 2025 being even better where we see continued growth.

“PSG would like to express its appreciation to all St. Maarteners who work in the tourism and hospitality sectors for their continued good work and professionalism.

“PSG wishes everybody a safe transition into the New Year as they celebrate with family and friends on Tuesday, December 31 at the Great Bay Fireworks display,” PSG said in a statement.

PSG Management wishes everybody a safe and healthy 2025.

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