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Soualiga News Today (3790)

40-Year old Scooter rider dies on the spot in traffic accident

Police photo of accident scene Thursday night.

SINT MAARTEN (COLE BAY) - The Police Traffic Department is presently investigating a tragic traffic accident involving a private vehicle and scooter, police announced late Thursday night.

The accident took place on Thursday April 18th at approximately 9.40 p.m. on A.J.C. Brouwers road in the vicinity of the round about on Cole Bay Hill. According to the report the male victim riding on a black scooter without license-plate coming from the direction of the round about collided head-on with a white private vehicle with license-plate P-6606 coming from the opposite direction.

As a result of the collision the male victim ended up under the vehicle the private vehicle. On the arrival of the Paramedics and the Fire Department the victim was not showing any signs of life.

Traffic on the A.J.C. Brouwers road was diverted for the Traffic Department to conduct their investigation. At this time, it is still unclear what the actual cause of the accident is. A medical doctor in the meanwhile has pronounced the death of the victim who has been identified with initials N.F.A. (40). The remains of the victim will be transported to a morgue. (Sint Maarten Police Report)

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Ki-mani Olivacce Recognised with a Paul Harris Fellow

In photo District Governor Nominee Designate Louis, Ki-mani, President Denise and Foundation Chair David.

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) – “It was with great pleasure that The Rotary Club of St. Maarten-Mid Isle recognized Ki-mani Olivacce with a Paul Harris Fellow for his work in the community with his initiative of the ‘Back to School Drive’,” Rotary Club Mid-Isle said in a statement on Thursday.

“Ki-mani started his ‘Back to School’ drive in 2016 when he saw students going to school without school bags and supplies and decided to help with getting them the supplies they needed for school. In 2016 he donated 300 school back packs, in 2017 he donated 350 back packs and in 2018 he donated 400 back packs and this year 2019 he would like to donate 500 Back packs.

“These back packs he splits into three sets: One set contained notebooks, highlighters, scientific calculator, geometry set, compass, ruler, sharpener,  eraser pencils, pens, pencil case and an agenda for high school students: the second set contained compositions books, ruler, colored pencils, pencil case, eraser,  sharpener, pencils, pens, an agenda, a binder with paper for elementary students and the last set for kindergarten children contained crayons, coloring books, pencils, lunch kit, and a small reusable water bottle. Over 1,000 students have benefitted from his initiative.  Mid Isle feels very privileged and proud to have been a part of ki- mani’s ‘Back to School Drive’ initiative.

“Ki-mani asked to speak to those present, the following are the words spoken to those in attendance by Ki-mani: Good night everyone. First, I would like to thank Rotary Mid Isle for this honor. I would like to thank them for their support through the three years with my back to school drive. When I started this drive, it was from my heart, I would like to continue contributing toward this well needed cause.

“This is my senior year and my plans are indeed to continue my studies in the US. However, I hope I will get the full support of the Rotary again this year. I will start this year’s drive in June. I hope that this year I can count on your support. I would like to thank the whole team for everything they have done for the back to school drive. Last but not least my parents and family, because without them I would not be the person I am today. Thank you’

“To help kick start his initiative this year Mid Isle presented Ki-Mani with five pack packs donated to thems by ‘Friends in Action’ and other school supplies donated to them by the KI Britannia foundation.”

The Rotary Club of St. Maarten-Mid Isle meets Tuesdays at 7pm at Pineapple Pete in Simpson Bay. For more information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit their Facebook page Rotary Club of St. Maarten-Mid Isle.

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Easter Holiday Message from Minister of Culture Smith

Minister Wycliffe Smith

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) – On Thursday Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport Wycliffe Smith, released the following Easter holiday message to the nation.

“As we go through this Easter season, I pray that each of us takes some time to reflect on the mercies of Our Almighty God and the loving kindness extended to us through the life, death and resurrection of His Only begotten Son. Knowing that in Our Saviour, we have a living hope, we can walk in that faith into a brighter future.

“While we commemorate the Messiah’s death, burial and resurrection, we can liken our island’s recovery process to His passion. As a country, we passed through one of the worst devastations in September 2017. Life as we knew it on our beautiful island ceased to exist for a time. Months of economic darkness entombed us. Yet, as we work together, united and focussed, we have seen the breakthrough to a time of renewal on Sint Maarten.

“It is still early in our recovery, and sometimes it may seem as though this renewal is a figment of our imagination. But as God is real and Jesus lives, Sint Maarten too is rising and rebuilding to a better, more sustainable development. We must continue in our commitment to reset and rebuild with unity of purpose and a focus on our goals.

“As you spend some time this weekend with loved ones, family and friends, may your time be peaceful and pleasant. Should troubles come, seek to resolve them without violence. Let us teach our children that we can choose to walk away from fights, pursue a path of peace, and offer forgiveness as much as we pray for forgiveness ourselves.  On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, I wish you a Happy Easter!”

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NV GEBE Supervisory Board completes Good Governance training

NV GEBE Supervisory Board of Directors and the Nationaal Register Program Team. From left to right: Annelies de Groot, Safira Ibrahim, Adriaan Lieftinck , Bienvenido Richardson, Kenneth Serrant, Nina Diaz, Louis Wever, Huib Bartels, Conrad Richardson.

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) - The NV GEBE Supervisory Board of Directors is pleased to announce completing a three-day interactive training program on corporate governance provided by Nationaal Register on April 4th, 5th and 6th, the utility company said in a press statement on Thursday.

Completing the corporate governance training program was an important objective of the Supervisory Board since the appointment of five new members to the Supervisory Board late last year.

The course provided a theoretical and practical based knowledge on good governance and corresponding themes with day to day practice in a supervisory board dynamic with its dilemmas and casuistry.

All the Supervisory Board members completed the course successfully and received a certificate being aware of their responsibility for good governance.

The NV GEBE Supervisory Board intends to organize a joint training session with the Management Board to keep all updated on the latest international standards.

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Frederick presents Carnival official magazine to SCDF

Cover of the Carnival magazine.

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) - Creative Director of So Contagious Studious Cleon Frederick presented the first copies of ‘Tis Carnival magazine to the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) on Wednesday, marking a “publishing start” to the official magazine for St. Maarten Carnival. The free magazine is a collaborative effort between Frederick and the SCDF for Carnival 50 and beyond.

Frederick came up with the idea for a true promotional magazine in 2014 after producing a mini magazine for his Carnival concert. Five years later, he said he is happy to finally be able to publish a started version of what is intended to be a full blown Carnival promotional magazine that also pushes destination St. Maarten.

He explained that the intention is to publish the magazine in December or January every year to get it in the hands of tourists. “We want them to book to come back to Carnival. Carnival is the main focus of the magazine but Carnival also promotes destination St. Maarten. It’s a win-win for Carnival and St. Maarten,” Frederick said.

The magazines will be distributed throughout the island and in particular at the hotels. It is also available at the Carnival Village. “This first issue comes out in time for Carnival 50 and in time to compliment everything we are planning moving forward with marketing for Carnival. We jumped at the opportunity to collaborate on this project this year with the intention to see it grow. We want this to develop into the official magazine for St. Maarten Carnival with the cooperation of the private and public sectors. Our thanks to Cleon who has again proven to be a committed and dependable Carnival stakeholder,” President of the SCDF Alston Lourens said.

Frederick is also SCDF’s graphic designer and creator of the official Carnival logo with the brand “Come, Experience Life”. He also designed the special Carnival 50 logo.

scdf wed1704 ins1

Creative Director of So Contagious Studious Cleon Frederick (right) Present the ‘Tis Carnival Magazine to President of the SCDF Alston Lourens.

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Prime Minister expresses dismay over fire at the Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathederal, Paris France

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - Upon learning the news of the fire at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin expressed sadness over the incident.

“My thoughts are with the citizens of France and the worldwide community of the Catholic Church, it is very sad to see the Notre Dame Cathedral engulfed in flames. This historic building symbolizes the strength and longevity of the Catholic faith and its believers”, said Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin.

The Notre dame Cathedral is one of the most notable monuments in Paris. This Catholic treasure is over 800 years old. It is located on a small island called the “Ile de la Cite” in the middle of the River Seine. The building of the cathedral was completed over the course of 200 years; it was started in 1163 during the reign of King Louis VII and was completed in 1345.

Prime Minister Romeo Marlin concluded by saying, “Today we have lost an iconic symbol of strength and faith, I pray for the people of France and the Catholic Church as we await the next step for this irreplaceable edifice in city of Paris.”

PM LEONA MARLIN ROMEO

Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin

 

 

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ROTARY CLUB OF SINT MAARTEN HOSTS 32nd ANNUAL SENIORS LAGOON CRUISE

ROTARY CLUB OF SINT MAARTEN HOSTS 32nd ANNUAL SENIORS LAGOON CRUISE

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) - On Saturday April 6, 2019, approximately 20 Rotarians from the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, along with 7 Interactors from Learning Unlimited Preparatory School and Milton Peters College, assembled at the Explorer boat in Simpson Bay, all with one goal in mind; to welcome, to appreciate and to entertain more than 140 seniors and to provide them with some outdoor adventure and fun. “This year marked the 32nd year this event has been held”, noted long-time event Chairman and Rotary Club of Sint Maarten Past President, Kishore Idnani.

According to Rotary Club President, John Caputo, “The annual senior citizen lagoon cruise, which was first started under the leadership of Past President Michael Ferrier, is now in its 32th year and, if anything, is more popular than ever before. More than 140 senior citizens from the White and Yellow Cross Foundation, the Home Away from Home Foundation, the St. Maarten Senior Citizens Recreational Foundation and Meals on Wheels enjoyed the lagoon cruise aboard the Explorer, along with fellow Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten, The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten- Mid Isle, and Interactors from Milton Peters College and Learning Unlimited”.

Music was provided by DJ Ruby, transportation was provided courtesy of Russell Bell, Guavaberry Emporium donated gifts for the seniors, International Liquors and Tobacco and Faustina Ledee, and Duty Free World both donated the beverages for the day, cake was provided by Carl and Son’s Unique Bakery, and each Rotarian provided one large dish of food for the seniors to enjoy, as well as serving them a great lunch aboard the Explorer during the lagoon cruise. Mark’s Place also provided logistical support.

According to incoming President-elect, Sherylle deHaarte, “The 2020 edition of the Senior’s Lagoon Cruise promises to be bigger and better than ever”.

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Subscribers having fun with TelCell Night of the Hit Makers SMS quiz

File photo: Lucky SMS winners who last year won tickets to see the Night of the Hit Makers show.

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - TelEm Group is keeping the Carnival music vibe rolling along for the next two weeks with a fun SMS quiz for customers surrounding the upcoming TelCell Night of the Hit Makers event.

Each day, mobile customers are given a chance to win tickets for Carnival’s flagship show on April 26th.

Every day TelCell will broadcast a new question via SMS. All participants have to do is SMS the answer to the various questions related to the annual TelCell Night of the Hit Makers event, and each day a random winner will be chosen from all those submitted correct answers for the day.

Winners will be informed by quiz coordinators so that they can pick up their winning tickets each Friday for the next two weeks.

The Night of the Hit Makers SMS Quiz began Thursday and has since generated a lot of interest from music fans who don’t want to miss out on the top music acts that will be performing on the TelCell Night of the Hit Makers night.

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Speakers identified for 4th Dutch Caribbean AML & Gaming Forum

Minister Stuart Johnson

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) – The Government of Sint Maarten via the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunications (TEATT) and GovRisk (UK) proudly announce that the 4th Dutch Caribbean AML (Anti-Money Laundering) & Gaming Regulation Forum has released its speakers lists that includes AML/CFT (Combating the Financing of Terrorism) and Gaming & AML Regulation experts Alan Pedley, Tony Clark, Delaware State Police Detective Sergeant David Hanich, former Bahamas Senator Cheryl Bazard and National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) Executive Director, Keith Whyte, who will be sharing their extensive expertise in this area.

Over 100 casino directors, gaming regulators, compliance officers, law enforcement personnel and representatives from the legal and banking sectors from across five Caribbean jurisdictions will attend the event, which is taking place at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino and Spa at Maho from the 4th-7th June 2019.

“Jurisdictions within the Region have to ensure that the regulatory regime related to AML and CFT must remain robust, relevant and in line with international norms.  The Forum provides this opportunity to learn international best practices and the latest trends from the Financial Action Task Force,” Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Stuart Johnson said on Friday.

The agenda points for the forum are: Banks Are De-Risking Due to Perceived High-Risk Sectors in the Caribbean Jurisdictions – Some Strategies and Possible Solutions; Best Practices in Customer Due Diligence (CDD) & Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) – For the Banks, Gaming Operators, Lotteries & the Designated Non-Financial Businesses & Professions (DNFBPs); Digital Currencies & Blockchain Technologies for Gaming, Financial, Telecoms and other Sectors in Smaller Jurisdictions; Regulating Online Gambling; Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) – Risks and Opportunities; Regulations, Standards & Best Practices; Regulatory Frameworks & Licensing Regimes: Make the Right Choices; Problem Gambling & Responsible Gaming; Preparing for CFATF (Committee Financial Action Task Force) 4th Round of Mutual Evaluations – Identifying AML Risks & Taking Steps; FinTech - Economic Diversification, Financial Services Sector Development & Telecoms Opportunities; The Important Role of the FIU (Financial Intelligence Unit)/MOT in Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curacao & Suriname; Sports Betting – Opportunities & Risks for Regulators, Operators and Players; and GDPR Data Protection – The Implications for the Dutch Caribbean jurisdictions.

Minister Johnson is calling on businesses in the aforementioned area of AML & Gaming Regulation and support sectors to sign-up to attend the Forum.

Focusing on Sint Maarten, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao & Suriname; this unique, regional event brings together key stakeholders such as: Banks - Compliance Officers & Internal Risk Managers; Central Banks, Regulatory & Supervisory Bodies; Financial Intelligence Units, Treasury & Revenue, Law Enforcement; Casinos, Lotteries, Slot & Arcade Operators; Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) such as: Law Firms, Auditors & Accountants, Insurance Firms, Real Estate Agents, Car Dealers, Jewellers, Credit Unions & Charities.

The 4th Dutch Caribbean Forum will focus on the next round of CFATF Mutual Evaluations (for Sint Maarten this will be in 2022) and aims to enhance cooperation, foster greater transparency and promote best practice in both regulation and compliance for all the key stakeholders in the Dutch Caribbean jurisdictions.

All Training Sessions, Workshops, Debates and Discussions will be led by international experts that will address global regulatory standards and strategies to reduce the risk of criminal activity and increase compliance & transparency.

To REGISTER for the forum, simply follow this link: www.govrisk.org/DCGRF2019.  Click on Register, then input the special discount code TEATT and follow the process through to the end.

This four-day forum is being delivered by UK Financial Crime Prevention Training & Consultancy provider GovRisk with the support of Sint Maarten’s and Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunications (TEATT). GovRisk is an organization which specialises in the delivery of high-level Training and Consultancy in the fields of Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering, Good Governance and Transparency.

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Administration office convicted for failure to report unusual transactions

Public Prosecution Service (OM), Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - Today, an administration office on Sint Maarten - and its management - has been convicted for not reporting multiple unusual transactions, the Public Prosecution Service (OM) announced on Thursday on behalf of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)/Special Police Taskforce (RST)/Anti-Corruption Team (TBO).

“Because the management of the trust office has been convicted in relation to such offenses before, the Common Court of Justice has implemented the suspended sentence which was imposed at that time.

“The transactions not reported by the administration office are part of a major corruption and money laundering investigation called Larimar. If the administrative office had timely reported the unusual transaction to the FIU, this fraud would have been brought much earlier to the attention of the judicial chain.

“This could have prevented further fraud and corruption and possibly saved the country of Sint Maarten a substantial amount of money. The OM TBO, RST TBO and FIU have worked out this case in close collaboration.

“Persons obliged to report, such as administration and trust offices, but also banks, jewelers, car dealers, brokers and civil-law notaries are obliged to conduct customer due diligence and report unusual transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).

“If on purpose they do not do this, they are guilty of a crime. For example, there is an unusual transaction when there is an indication that money laundering is involved, or when a transaction involves an amount in excess of a limit set by the government.

“Reporting unusual transactions and conducting customer due diligence are important pillars in combating money laundering and terrorism financing. The reports of unusual transactions are essential to make it as difficult as possible for criminals to bring money from the underworld to the upper world.

“The Public Prosecutor’s Office and FIU work closely together in the Non-Reporters project with the aim of better compliance of the reporting obligation. One of the current points of attention for the Non-Reporters project is getting all the persons obliged to report on Sint Maarten registered with FIU.”

For more information about FIU and reporting obligations these can be found at www.fiu-sxm.net

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