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Closed door session of Committee of Finance with the Cft on Tuesday

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – Theparliamentary Committee of Finance (CF) will meet in a closed door session on December 8.

The Committee of Finance will meet on Tuesday at 10.15am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is a discussion with the Committee of Financial Supervision (Cft) regarding the financial situation of Sint Maarten.

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Safety Tips for Decorating your Home and Christmas tree

GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – Holiday shoppers are busy buying Christmas trees and lights to adorn their home this holiday season.  As the day gets closer, families are bustling around to have everything in place for Christmas Eve.

Parents and family members should keep in mind some holiday safety tips where it concerns decorations and the Christmas tree.  The season is all about family togetherness and we would like everyone to have a safe holiday season incident free.  

Every year the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a section that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, as part of its calendar of observances, highlights and creates awareness where it concerns safe holidays.

Check out this list of holiday season safety tips:

Trees:

  • When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label "Fire Resistant." Although this label does not mean the tree won't catch fire, it does indicate the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.
  • When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
  • When setting up a tree at home, be sure to keep the stand filled with water. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways.

Lights:

  • Indoors or outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory, which indicates conformance with safety standards. Use only lights that have fused plugs.
  • Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs.
  • Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the intended use.
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
  • Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.
  • Stay away from power or feeder lines leading from utility poles into older homes.
  • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples to hold strings in place, not nails or tacks. Or, run strings of lights through hooks (available at hardware stores).
  • Turn off all holiday lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.
  • Use caution when removing outdoor holiday lights. Never pull or tug on lights - they could unravel and inadvertently wrap around power lines.
  • Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold. GFCIs can be installed permanently to household circuits by a qualified electrician.

Decorations:

  • Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or nonleaded metals. Leaded materials are hazardous if ingested by children.
  • Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.
  • In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.
  • Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass "angel hair."

Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.

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Female robbed at knife point on Thursday morning

FORT WILLEM - The Detective Department is presently investigating a case of armed robbery which took place on Thursday December 3rd at approximately 11.30 a.m.

According to the victim with initials S.A.L. she had just stepped off a bus close to the Prins Bernard Bridge. While walking on the Fort Willem road close to the water fountain she was suddenly attacked from behind by an unknown man, who put a knife to her throat.

She resisted in the attack and knocked the knife from the suspects’ hand. The suspect however managed to overpower the victim by forcing her to the ground.

At this point the suspect succeeded in removing her purse from her handbag and taking all of her cash. After committing this act the robber fled the scene. (Police Force Sint Maarten)

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CableNet Announces Scheduled Service Interruptions Due To Equipment Upgrade

MADAME ESTATE - St. Maarten CableNet informs its customers of outside plant equipment upgrades. On Tuesday, December 8, 2015, CableNet technicians will be installing new equipment as part of a network modernization. All CableNet customers will experience brief interruptions between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.

Beulah Jonis, Managing Director, stated, “St. Maarten CableNet technical team will be installing a new Cable Modem Terminating System (CMTS) to enhance high speed data service throughout the island. This upgrade is in preparation of the Company’s plan of modernizing its outside plant to a Hybrid Fiber Coaxial (HFC) infrastructure. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused as we continue to maintain and upgrade our equipment to provide optimum service to our customers”.

Customers are encouraged to visit St. Maarten Cable TV’s Facebook page and the website for additional information and other pertinent facts. The website address is http://www.sxmcable.com/. Customers may also call our Customer Service department at 542-4361 or send emails to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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MP Lake calls on Community to read Ombudsman Report on past Constitutional Crisis

ST. PETERS – Member of Parliament Maurice Lake in a press release issued on Thursday, is calling on the community to visit the website of the Ombudsman with respect to a report that was prepared regarding the constitutional crisis that the country experienced several weeks ago.

“I would like the general public to visit the Ombudsman website and read a report about the principle of trust article 33 in the Constitution.  This document can be found under ‘Reports’ and then go to ‘Notices of Termination’ and click on ‘2015 Principle of Trust art.33 Constitution.

“This is based on a citizen’s complaint about how the former Prime Minister worked outside the Constitution of St. Maarten. It is clear that the conduct of the former Prime Minister is unconstitutional. As a Member of Parliament, one of our tasks is to educate the general public about the Constitution and the laws of the island.  We need to be open, transparent and clear when communicating to the people and not confuse the people.

“This document on the Ombudsman website is a complaint lodged by a group of concerned citizens.  The summary says that by letter of 19 October, 2015, addressed to the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten Mr. M. Gumbs, the Complainant and a concerned group of Citizens of Sint Maarten complained that they are disappointed in the impasse created in the governance of Sint Maarten, allegedly due to the actions or lack thereof by the Prime Minister following the passing of a Motion of no-confidence in the Prime Minister and his Cabinet.

“The report is rather extensive and makes for good reading if you want to educate and learn about governance.  The two conclusion points of the Ombudsman report is as follows: ‘a) In the absence of a National Ordinance regarding the explanation and execution of the Principle of trust, not adhering to this principle constitutes a breach of the constitutional order according to the elucidation of the pertinent article. As such the Ombudsman concludes that not adhering to and not honouring this fundamental Principle of trust is a breach of propriety.

The Complaint filed regarding the application of the Principle of trust is therefore founded. Ad b) Conclusion: Considering the elucidation on the Principle of trust established in the Constitution (the rule of law), combined with the premise of the application of this principle as explained by the authors discussed in the PFR, propriety requires that the Principle of trust should have been observed by the Prime Minister in the absence of a National Ordinance, further explaining the execution of the Principle of trust. The elucidation on article 33 of the Constitution establishes that the Minister shall tender his/her resignation, failure to do so is considered a breach of the constitutional order, as such a breach of propriety.’

“The Ombudsman report further makes six recommendations that need to be followed in order for this not to happen in the future.  The Ombudsman says in her report,

‘Sint Maarten being in its infant stages of its constitutional development, failure to diligently consider the rule of law, including not properly observing article 17 and 19 of the National Ordinance Ombudsman, the Ombudsman considers it prudent to issue recommendations to the Prime Minister, which are applicable for the government in general to promote propriety and good governance.

‘1) Government should at all times lead by example and adhere to the rule of law and standards of proper conduct; 2) Government should actively and adequately gather comprehensive advice and information on issues affecting the general interest of the people; 3) Government should consider creating a mechanism by means of a pool of experts to function as an independent ‘think thank’ to brainstorm with and advice government on complex issues that may affect the country and people of Sint Maarten; 4) Government should actively and adequately inform the public on issues pertaining to the general interest of the community, and do so promptly to encourage citizens to develop informed opinions and to avoid misunderstandings; 5) Government should seek to make use of section 3 of article 33 of the Constitution promptly, as well as implement other regulations and rules to address the issues reflected in the National Decree to dissolve Parliament, signed as a result of the conflict ensued in response to the Principle of trust; 6) Government should respect the Constitution at all times, and should see to it that the powers and bodies of the State provided by the Constitution are not undermined from within.’

“As a young country we need to follow the rule of law.  If that is not followed, we lose credibility and looked at in a negative light and that will reflect on our governance,” MP Maurice Lake said on Thursday in a press statement.

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Students conclude Eight Week Disciples Toastmasters Club Leadership Program

ST. PETERS - Concluding an eight week leadership program of the St. Maarten Academy PSVE, staged a rewarding graduation at the Simpson Bay Resorts conference room on 2nd December 2015. 

Of the seventeen students who started the program, seven of them stuck with the program and exposed the champion in them.  During the graduation ceremony, the students delivered emotional and encouraging presentations and played leadership roles that made the ceremony a grave success.


Congratulations to the graduates and the Disciples Toastmasters Club on a successful leadership program 2015. (Disciples Toastmasters Club)

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What are your St. Maarten Heineken Regatta charter options?

SIMPSON BAY - Entering and racing in the 36th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has never been easier. From chartering a boat to booking a complete package, there is certainly an option to suit every need. Both Sunsail and Moorings have a full fleet available for charter on the island. Located in Oyster Pond, this protected marina is the perfect place to start your regatta adventure. Additionally there are several companies, such as Kras, ATPI and Windward Adventures, that offer full regatta packages including flights, hotel and boat rentals.

Oyster Pond, situated right on the border of French and Dutch St. Maarten, is where the chartering experience begins. Sunsail and Moorings both offer a wide variety of boats to rent for the event. With the option of renting the boat with a skipper, this is the perfect solution to racing in the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta if you do not have as much experience. Monohulls, as well as Catamarans, are available and the staff at both offices is friendly and knowledgeable about both the event and the surrounding waters.

Oyster Pond, which is where the charter fleet docks and/or anchors year round, offers several delicious restaurants, a small hotel, and spectacular ocean views. The buzz of activity during the regatta will be sure to put you into the racing mood. 

For those needing more than just a boat, you can book your regatta package through the tour operators like Kras, ATPI or Windward Adventures. Both offer packages which include charter boat rental, entry fees, hotel and air travel. Making them the one-stop shop for a stress-free regatta. Those who are chartering a boat from a recognized charter company will be entered to race in the Bareboat class during the regatta. This highly competitive class allows participants to race against boats similar to their own. In 2015, this fleet was more than 60 strong and saw loads of on the water action.

But don't wait until the last minute. This extremely popular option sells out quickly, so call your friends, put your team together and who knows, maybe your team will make it to the podium to collect the trophy for Best Overall Bareboat. For more contact information, click here

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Seven persons postulate for three Chamber of Commerce Board Positions. Elections set for December 11

PHILIPSBURG - The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry would like to inform its members that during the postulation period that ended on Tuesday December 1st, 2015, seven (7) persons submitted their postulation forms for the three (3) vacancies on its Board of Directors.

For the Large Business Sector, there are two (2) vacancies, and for the Small Business Sector, there is one (1) vacancy on its Board of Directors.

For the Large Business Sector, five (5) persons postulated themselves, and for the Small Business Sector, two (2) persons postulated themselves.

After the screening of candidates by the Election Committee members, Messer: Franklin Brison, Cleophas Richardson, Myrna Lynch and Charles Benders, five (5) nomination forms were returned to the nominees, four (4) Large and one (1) Small for revision of shortcomings/defaults.

The deadline for re-submission is Friday, December 4th, 2015 at 12:00 noon.

The election will be held on Friday December 11th, 2015 from 8:30 am until 12 noon.

Voters are advised to pick up their voting cards at the Chamber of Commerce & Industry office from Monday, December 7th, 2015.

These cards will be exchanged for a ballot on Election Day.

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UP board and leader extend deepest condolences to family of gas station attendant. Commend Police for quick apprehension of armed robbers

PHILIPSBURG – The United People's Party (UP) family, Leader Member of Parliament (MP) Theodore Heyliger, and board extends its deepest condolences to the family of the gas station attendant who was killed in an armed robbery at a gas station in Cole Bay on Monday evening.  Condolences are also expressed to the attendant co-workers and friends.

The UP Family would also like to commend for the Sint Maarten Police Force for their quick action in the apprehension of the two armed robbers who committed this heinous crime.

“The UP family extend prayers to the loved ones of the gas station attendant who lost his life on Monday evening. May the Almighty give them strength during this difficult period,” the UP Party Board President Sylvia Meyers said on Tuesday.

The UP Family and Board are of the opinion that the Police Force program of enhanced controls and more presence in the districts has allowed it to apprehend the culprits who are responsible for the murder of the gas station attendant, whereby they were apprehended 25 minutes later after the call came into the Emergency Dispatch Center. 

“The assistance of the community also resulted in allowing the Police to apprehend the culprits who took the life of an innocent man who was making an honest living.

“The UP Board is hoping that the House of Parliament will continue urgently with the Central Committee Meeting of Parliament about Crime which was started back in August after the slaying of Police Officer Benjamin.  UP MP Franklin Meyers this week already called on the Democratic Party President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams to schedule such a meeting and we hope that this will take place urgently,” President of the UP Party Board Sylvia Meyers said on Tuesday.

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Minister Jacobs willing to work toward building the NIPA Institution

CAY HILL - Minister of Education Hon. Silveria Jacobs attended the first graduation ceremony of the NIPA (National Institute for Professional Advancement) at the institution on Monday evening. The graduation, which was held on Monday November 30th, featured 12 LPN nurses with recognized, accredited diplomas being pinned by several of their instructors and supervisors at the various care institutes.  Also graduating were 3 secretarial and 1 bookkeeping student.  All students started in the former SBO classes offered by secondary high schools on the island.

The Minister commended the students for their diligence, determination and dedication to hard work and the courage and patience to face all the obstacles and challenges that were placed on their paths towards realizing their dreams. She also encouraged them to use the lessons learned from the challenges they had conquered to succeed in life as they looked to achieve new goals.  Congratulations were also extended to the families and loved ones for the necessary support for the students to be able to work and study at the same time.

Instructors, administration, management and staff as well as staff within the Ministry were commended for helping the students to achieve this milestone despite the many challenges being faced by the fledgling institution and government.  Minister Jacobs paid special tribute to the instructors and coordinators for their dedication and love in making a difference in the lives of the students. They were encouraged to keep up the good work.

Student speakers also paid an emotional tribute to their instructors and coordinators for their encouragement and patience as well as their dedication to seeing them succeed.

This graduation of the NIPA can be seen as a first step towards realizing opportunities for Sint Maarten students willing to professionalize themselves as they enter the work force.

Minister Jacobs pledged to cooperate with all stakeholders willing to work towards building NIPA to live up to its potential to provide opportunities for tertiary education for professional workers needed within our society.  

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