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UPDATED: SXMGOV Radio 107.9FM Back On the Air

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – SXMGOV Radio 107.9 FM, the official government radio station of Sint Maarten, is back on the air. The technical issue was addressed by station partner C3 on resolved on Saturday.

On Friday, radio listeners were informed that the station is off the air due to a transmission error at the antenna site.

Maurice Lake, Head of the Department of Communication (DCOMM), extended his sincere apologies to the people of Sint Maarten for the temporary inconvenience and assured them at that time that every effort was being made to resolve the issue promptly.

Government information and program could still have been accessed via DCOMMs internet stream, which can be accessed at www.sintmaartengov.org. Additionally, the station's broadcast can be accessed through the third-party application 'RadioGarden' for uninterrupted listening pleasure.

SXMGOV Radio 107.9FM is the official government radio station of Sint Maarten, dedicated to delivering informative, entertaining, and engaging content to the community.

ARCHIVED - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 01 - SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - SXMGOV Radio 107.9FM, the official government radio station of Sint Maarten, regrets to inform its listeners that the station is currently off the air due to a transmission error at the antenna site. The technical issue is currently being addressed by our partners at C3, and we anticipate that 107.9FM will be back on air by the weekend.

Maurice Lake, Head of the Department of Communication, extends his sincere apologies to the people of Sint Maarten for the temporary inconvenience and assures the general public that every effort is being made to resolve the issue promptly.

In the meantime, we encourage our valued listeners to continue enjoying SXMGOV Radio 107.9FM's programming via our internet stream, which can be accessed at www.sintmaartengov.org. Additionally, the station's broadcast can be accessed through the third-party application 'RadioGarden' for uninterrupted listening pleasure.

We appreciate the understanding and patience of our audience as we work diligently to restore normal broadcasting operations. We are committed to providing the highest quality of service and look forward to once again connecting with our listeners on the airwaves.

For further updates and information, please visit www.sintmaartengov.org

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Kimberly Blair Launches Candidacy on UP Party Presents Five-Point Platform dubbed #BlairCares

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The youngest candidate on the United People’s Party UPP list Kimberly A. Blair (25), a distinguished graduate of Mercy University in Criminal Justice with a Forensics concentration, steps into St. Maarten's political arena with a committed vision and a comprehensive platform aimed at addressing critical issues in justice and education.

Having returned to St. Maarten, Kimberly discovered pressing challenges faced by Justice Workers, including payment discrepancies and insufficient training and equipment for uniformed divisions. These urgent issues propelled her into the challenging realm of politics to enact immediate change.

Blair has a five-point platform she calls #BlairCares. She is joining her fellow candidates and the United People's Party in general, who have already sounded the alarm on the justice workers' disheartening situation.

"Some of my colleague candidates have already touched on this issue for the Justice workers, and in fact, they have worked on several levels to create solutions because they recognize the importance of ensuring that our justice workers receive fair treatment. With our collective voice, we have and will continue to show that we mean every word we say when we advocate for fair treatment for the people of St. Maarten in all fields,” said Blair in a Sunday press release.  

In her A Five-Point Platform, Blair addresses fundamental challenges St. Maarten's justice and education systems face. Her five-point plan underscores her commitment to creating tangible change. Her first suggestion focuses on solving the budgetary issues affecting the government's ability to pay its justice workers after they perform their duties.

She said initiatives such as Introducing personalized license plates with a yearly fee and creating a self-funding model for law enforcement would be a first step in the right direction to ensure money is available to pay the Justice workers. 

"It is not the only solution as more innovative ideas can be explored. However, the goal is to use revenue from personalized plates and other initiatives to support essential resources, equipment, and training for law enforcement directly, ensuring adequate community protection.

Her second point surrounds prison reform, which has been much talked about but with little real action. One of her concerns is that when first-time offenders are released from prison, their transition back is often complicated and usually met with rejection from society, making it hard to find jobs and stay on the "straight and narrow."

"We must implement a realistic and comprehensive re-entry program for prisoners by making sure that in such a small society, we Equip prisoners with essential skills, grooming standards, and rehabilitation, including a probationary job period and transitional housing for successful societal reintegration. When they qualify, these soon-to-be-released inmates can be given a one-day-per-week opportunity to participate in supervised work outside and incentivize companies to hire them in specific areas," said Blair. 

She also contends that more must be done to make sure that returning graduates stop receiving a high percentage of rejection based on "lack of experience," as it is counterproductive to the plan of sending students abroad to study in fields that are needed locally.

"If our children travel abroad and study only to return home and be told they do not have experience despite their education, how will they gain the experience if we don't ensure that opportunities are here when they return, and how will the cycle of bringing people in from abroad to take up these posts, leaving these same returning graduates unemployed in some cases end?" 

Blair suggests developing a robust system linking graduates' credentials to relevant job opportunities. She advocates creating a platform connecting graduates with suitable job openings, enhancing employment chances, and facilitating a smoother transition from education to the workforce.

"When you are in your last year, the recruitment process can commence, where you are directly linked with companies and divisions within government to monitor progress, gauge interests, and plan your return to St. Maarten, so when you get here, you aren't highly qualified and looking for a job for several years," said Blair.

She is also of the opinion that it is time for action on decriminalizing marijuana. Her initiative is advocacy for marijuana decriminalization, emphasizing medicinal use and implementing responsible regulations. Use the therapeutic benefits, remove punitive measures, and manage usage responsibly through education-focused regulations and taxation options to generate revenue.

There has been much debate over several years regarding the state of the police detention facilities and the Pointe Blanche Prison. Much to Blari's surprise, every opportunity to resolve this issue has been missed.

"I will not pass up an opportunity to address the prison overcrowding and infrastructure issues prison officers and prisoners face. The time has come to privatize the prison if we must ensure funding for constructing a modernized facility. Privatization can guarantee investment in not just a new prison with improved resources, aiding inmate rehabilitation and guaranteeing safety for inmates and staff, but also consistent and improved rehabilitation programs for our incarcerated citizens.

Kimberly A Blair's #BlairCares platform reflects her dedication to rectifying systemic issues within St. Maarten's justice and education sectors. Her candidacy embodies a commitment to fostering positive change for a safer, more equitable community. Her candidacy symbolizes a call for change and progress in St. Maarten, advocating for justice, education reform, and a brighter future for all.

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Police Force of Sint Maarten Takes Swift Action in Response to Domestic Violence Incident. Man Attempts to Suffocate Partner

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten is actively investigating a disturbing incident of domestic violence that occurred between Saturday and Sunday, November 26th, 2023, in the Duke Drive area of the Keys in Sucker Garden. The incident involved a male suspect who attempted to suffocate his partner with a pillow after initially choking her out.

The suspect in question with initials R.A.T. was arrested on Monday evening November 27th 2023 at approximately 7:00 PM. He is currently in custody at the Police Station in Philipsburg, where he will remain pending further investigation.

Domestic violence is a grave concern, and the Police Force of Sint Maarten is resolute in its commitment to address and combat all forms of violence, especially within the home. This incident underscores the importance of raising awareness during Domestic Violence Month in November.

The Police Force urges the community to remain vigilant and report any instances of domestic violence promptly. It is crucial to recognize that everyone has the right to live free from violence and fear, and we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten condemns domestic violence and will thoroughly investigate this and any of these type cases. KPSM goal is to hold the perpetrator accountable for their actions. KPSM encourage victims of domestic violence to come forward and seek assistance from the relevant authorities and support organizations.

It might not be general knowledge, however, there are established organizations on St. Maarten that can help. Safe Haven (www.safehavensxm.org) is one They are specialized in helping those who are confronted with domestic violence.

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Tzu Chi brings relief to 351 families with donation of food supplies

SINT MAARTEN (CUL DE SAC) - Inclement weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation and its team of volunteers, who recently braved inclement weather along with Leaders for Change Foundation to ensure that hundreds of families had food in their kitchen when it donated essential food packages to the families recently.  

The donation was one of two major heartwarming donation events held recently, which left an indelible positive impact on both recipients and volunteers. The first donation was held on October 29, at the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation office on the L.B. Scott Road, where 220 families were graciously presented with food packages despite rainy weather conditions and the second event was held on November 1, at Aaron Jacobs Drive in Cay Bay under the theme “Cay Bay Poverty Relief Charity Mission,” where 131 families received food supplies.  

In total, the foundation donated 351 bags of 10kg “Love Rice;” 351 bottles of 1 litre cooking oil, 351 packs of dried red beans and 351 boxes of 28pk Stolle Milk Powder. The food packages were intended to alleviate the financial burden of families in meeting basic needs, ensuring that they have access to the sustenance they require.  

Cay Bay donation

A total of 26 volunteers, assisted by Community Police Officer Richard Sharon, participated in the Cay Bay Relief, where 131 10kg bags of Love Rice; 131 bottles of 1litre oil; 131 1lb bags of dried peas and 131 boxes (each containing 28 packs) of Stolle Milk powder were donated. 

Donation at Tzu Chi Foundation office

A total of 42 volunteers participated in the October 29, relief effort. These included 32 Tzu Chi volunteers, seven of whom were Commissioners and 10 supportive volunteers from the Leaders of Change group.  A total of 220 bags of 10kg “Love Rice,” 220, 1-liter bottles of cooking oil, 220, one pound packs of dried red beans and 220 boxes of 28 packs of Stolle Milk Powder were distributed to the 220 recipient families.

Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung said it was a great experience for participating volunteers and recipients. The relief event was originally scheduled to be held outdoors. Everything was set the day before the event, however showers of blessings poured down that day into the following day when the event was scheduled to be held forcing Tzu Chi to grapple on whether to cancel the event and in the end decided to proceed as many families were in dire need of the relief items. 

Recipients showed up in large numbers and the event proceeded smoothly despite the challenges associated with the downpours. Recipients were treated to drinks and snacks and information was shared on the teachings of Tzu Chi’s Founder Master Cheng Yen, who believes that everyone should be treated as one family. Cheung said Master Cheng Yen reminds us the world is not getting any bigger, but the population is growing sadly with more greed, more crime and more poverty leading to more suffering. These issues are partially the result of too few good people who exist. “If we can inspire people to do good, educate people to start saving a few coins daily to help others, things will change. The moment of giving creates joyfully hearts. It transforms a person’s life from a receiver to a giver. The giver receives the joy of giving and suffering will be reduced, at the same time the number of good persons will increase,” Cheung explained. 

Recipients were happy to have a chance to give by donating to help Tzu Chi continue its work, and very grateful to receive the food packages as well as learn about the teachings. “Our goals are that together we can reduce suffering and increase the number of good persons in our society,” said Cheung. 

Following the distribution, volunteers shared their experiences, and were grateful for the opportunity. Cheung was appreciative of all volunteers including those from Leaders for Change, for their efforts in making the event possible. Leaders for Change led by Founder Ashma Berkel, has collaborated with Tzu Chi for several events over the past two years. 

 Berkel said the overwhelming community support was a testament to the necessity of such initiatives in today’s challenging times. She said the information shared not only empowered families with essential resources, but also enlightened them about the principles and values that underpin the Tzu Chi Foundation’s humanitarian efforts. She said Tzu Chi Foundation and Leaders for Change pledge to stand by the community, ensuring that these monthly food parcel distributions continue to be a beacon of hope for those in need. 

Tzu Chi Foundation is a global non-profit organization with a mission to alleviate suffering, promote environmental sustainability, and provide relief to those in need. Founded on the principles of compassion and empathy, the organisation has a long-standing history of making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities worldwide.

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Beyond Kultura published “MONSTER STORM” Video Storybook in Papiamentu

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Beyond Kultura Events Foundation (BKEF), TVCARIB and Divergences (Tashira Richardson) were working together for the production of the animated-video storybook STORM, based on the children’s book by author Loekie Morales about the two boys David and Tony experiencing the passing of hurricane Irma on Sint Maarten.

In its 6th year of the passing of devastating hurricane Irma, we can release the MONSTER STORM story video with voice over in Papiamentu. In September BKEF has released it with a storytelling voice of Dennis van Putten in English.

Now it is released spoken in Papiamentu by Dennis van Putten. His reading voice, intonation, articulation sound convincing in Papiamentu as well.

‘For this Papiamentu version, Van Putten has mixed his voice over, the beautiful illustrations by Penka Petkova and extra sound effects into an exited animated story video for mainly children of the Leeward Islands to enjoy,’ Morales stated.

This video production will bring the monster Storm, to life, so our Papiamentu speaking population can enjoy a captivated story the Windward Island population has experience on 6 September 2016.

The “Storm” video storybook is ready to be seen via TV Carib www.kids.tvcarib.com, under ‘the Story time’, you will find both, the spoken in English with Papiamentu subtitling version and the spoken in Papiamentu version. The video will also be available online at www.beyondkultura.com and some websites of libraries in the Dutch Caribbean.

‘This project is made possible with the financial support of the Prince Bernhard Cultural Fund Caribbean and Lucrecia Morales, who understand the importance of expanding children’s vocabulary and imagination by reading and storytelling projects like this’, Rita Aikman, treasurer of BKEF stated.

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SINT MAARTEN YACHT CLUB ANNOUNCES IMPRESSIVE LINEUP OF PARTICIPATING BOATS FOR THE 20TH COURSE DE L'ALLIANCE, INTER-ISLAND REGATTA

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - As the excitement builds for the 20th edition of the Course de l’Alliance Inter-Island Regatta, the Sint Maarten Yacht Club proudly reveals the impressive lineup of 18 participating boats for this highly anticipated event. Scheduled to take place from December 1st to December 3rd, 2023, this year’s regatta promises an unparalleled display of sailing expertise and camaraderie among sailors from around the region.

This year, the Course de l’Alliance is combined with the Round the Rocks Regatta, organized by the Holland Regatta club. The participants from the Round the Rocks Regatta start their regatta in Simpson Bay on Wednesday November 29, sailing to St. Eustatius, and return on November 30th, back to Simpson Bay, to join the start of the Course de l’Alliance on December 1st.

The action-packed event kicks off in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, on Friday, December 1st. The fleet will set sail, navigating the stunning seascape to their first destination, the picturesque Saint Barths. The Saint Barths Yacht Club warmly welcomes the fleet with a happy hour and a dinner on the scenic beachfront, setting the stage for an evening of relaxation and shared experiences.

On Saturday, December 2nd, the excitement continues as the fleet embarks on the next leg of the journey, racing from Saint Barths to the idyllic shores of Anguilla.

The grand finale of this spectacular regatta takes place on Sunday, December 3rd, as the fleet races back from Anguilla to Sint Maarten.

Among the esteemed fleet expected to grace the event are the regular contenders, including the Melges 24, Budget Marine, Island Water World, Team FKG – serving as the title sponsor of this prestigious event, and Caraibes Diesel.

Adding to the diversity and excitement of the Course de l’Alliance, the Race Committee is thrilled to introduce a multihull fleet this year. Among the anticipated multihull participants are the Trimaran Honey Badger and the Nautitech 40 Open, promising a thrilling showcase of speed and agility on the water.

Furthermore, the regatta will feature a one-design fleet of Diam 24s, expected to elevate the competition with their closely matched boats, ensuring a thrilling and closely contested racing experience.

“We’re delighted to welcome such a remarkable lineup of boats to the 20th Course de l’Alliance,” expressed Race Officer Wessel Tangenberg. “The addition of the multihull fleet and the presence of the Diam 24s further amplifies the diversity and excitement of the event, promising an unforgettable spectacle for participants and spectators alike. We are looking forward to collaborating with the Round the Rocks Regatta Committee and it is promising to be a great weekend.”

The Sint Maarten Yacht Club is thanking FKG Marine for their support and loyal sponsorship in this event. The competitors and the organization is looking forward to the hand made trophies that FKG Marine creates especially for this event. Their extremely skilled staff surprises the competitors with their art and skills every year.

Team FKG Marine was the winner of the 2022 edition of the Course de l’Alliance in their class. Let’s see if they able to win the 2023, 20th edition of the event!

The Course de l’Alliance has long been a beacon of sailing excellence, and this year’s edition is set to continue that tradition, showcasing the skill, passion, and competitive spirit of sailors from across the Caribbean.

For more information about the participating boats, race schedules, and event details, please visit https://smyc.com/la-course-de-lalliance/

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Come Out & Learn More about AMR on Saturday. Be Informed about Antimicrobial Resistance

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – On Saturday, November 25, 2023, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC) students will be at the Orange Grove Pharmacy to provide information about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM which is part of CPSs Community Action Day activities.

This activity is part of a collaborative effort between CPS and AUC campaign in observance of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), which is from November 18-24.

It is AUC’s 15-year anniversary of Community Action Day, which occurs three times annually. On Community Action Day, more than 200 students participate in service activities that contribute to positive health outcomes and environmental sustainability throughout Sint Maarten.

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.

This year, the theme of WAAW remains the same as in 2022, “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together.” The WHO calls on all sectors to encourage the prudent use of antimicrobials and to strengthen preventive measures addressing AMR, working together collaboratively through a One Health approach.

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MSC Seaside Cruise Ship to Arrive at 6:00 PM on Thursday

PORT ST. MAARTEN – Port St. Maarten Group (PSG) has been informed that the cruise ship MSC Seaside which was scheduled to call on Thursday morning will now be calling at 6:00 PM on November 23rd.

The cruise ship will depart at 2:00 AM November 24th.

The change in itinerary is due to a Medivac operation to Europe which delayed the arrival of the vessel.

Some crew will embark and disembark along with a few passengers.

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Endorsement/Support of Political Party List

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - For the upcoming parliamentary elections to be held on January 11th, 2024, all political parties that submitted a candidate list to the chairman of the central voting bureau on November 22nd, 2023, which did not obtain a seat in the previous held parliamentary elections, must be supported by 134 eligible voters. This conforms with article 23 electoral ordinance.  

This endorsement will be held on November 23rd, 2023, at the civil registry department at Soualiga Road #1, Philipsburg, from 09:am to 4pm. 

This endorsement is carried out by placing your signature on one candidate list as referred to in article 39 paragraph 2 of the Electoral ordinance. The same voter shall not be allowed to sign more than one list.  

The support of the candidate lists shall only be endorsed by an eligible voter who can identify himself or herself by means of: 

  • A valid national identity card 
  • A valid passport;
  • A valid national driver's license;

Eligible voters for the elections on January 11th, 2024, are persons that:  

  1. are registered at the Civil Registry by October 23rd, 2023;
  2. are in the possession of the Dutch nationality;
  3. will reach the age of 18 years on the day of elections.

This obligation shall not apply to a candidate list of a political party to which one or more seats were awarded at the last parliamentary elections. 

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