GRACITA: ‘IT’S ABOUT TIME’: FROM VISION TO REALITY.’ “MEMORIAM OF GREGORY J. ARRINDELL”

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) – Leader of the People’s Progressive Party (PPA) Gracita Arrindell stated on Sunday in a press statement that: “Mr. Gregory J. Arrindell recently passed away. Whilst the tributes came in from many including family, friends and business associates it is clear that ‘Greg’ will also be remembered as being part of a movement of people who early on had a vision for prosperity including the way to achieve this vision.

“Greg loved and respected ‘his’ People. His Vision was inclusion and Prosperity for the people of Sint Maarten based on a more diverse economic tourism policy. Greg voiced his opinions and tackled the issues regarding the best ways forward for our economy from several public platforms including through his popular radio program aired Wednesdays on PJD2 titled “IT’S ABOUT TIME”.

“Invited guests had an opportunity to deliberate on issues that were important for our economic growth sharing of wealth and our quality of life. His programs were colorful and very informative. Based on his firm belief that there is always room for strong growth of our economy and prosperity for our people once we commit to thinking outside the ordinary box. Explore and develop relationships outside the ordinary box through diversification of our tourism policies was his Vision ”.

Arrindell states; Greg’s active roles as well as being a member of several economic oriented foundations representing Sint Maarten locally and abroad are well-known. These platforms included the Tallahassee & St. Maarten Foundation. This Foundation among others sought partnership with the Business community of Tallahassee Florida. Respect and admiration goes out as well to Mr. Arthur Lugisse close friend and associate of the late Gregory J. Arrindell.

“Lugisse was Sint Maarten’s very successful representative in Tallahassee.

At that time Mr. Lugisse and his team brought the ‘who- is who’ in the political and business arena of South and North- St. Maarten together in this partnership endeavor. That was a remarkable feat to pull off. Gregory J. Arrindell was also part of this colorful and unique ensemble. Regrettably these great connections to expand and grow in partnership overseas have sizzled and stalled. These partnerships must again be sought after and re- established. It’s about time”.

Gracita says: “ Gregory was also among others on the board of the Sint Maarten Business Association. Together with another well known son- of the soil charismatic Charles (Charlie) Meyers the then board members made a deliberate effort to reach out and connect with the affluent African American market in the USA. Both men were introduced to BET founder and CEO of RLJ Group of Companies Billionaire Robert (Bob) L. Johnson and met at PJIA airport during one of Mr. Johnson’s visits to the islands. The introduction was made by then Island Council member Gracita R Arrindell.

Arrindell concludes: “We should honor Gregory Arrindell and his passion for economic empowerment and diversified growth for a stronger economic base for Sint Maarten.

His legacy must continue by those who share this common vision. The ball is in our court to act and turn his vision into reality. In his words; ‘It’s about time’. Rest in Peace Gregory J. Arrindell”.