PHILIPSBURG:--- The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) which falls under the Fire Department (Ministry of General Affairs) headed by Fire Chief/Disaster Coordinator Clive Richardson, is appealing to all residents and businesses to start to prepare for the hurricane season.  Do not wait until June 1^st or for the last minute to make such preparations.

You have the time now to prepare in a timely manner for what has been described to be an active hurricane season.

The 2025 storm names are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dexter, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, and Wendy.

The community is urged to learn more about hurricane hazards and how to prepare for a storm/hurricane strike by visiting the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org/hurricane where you will be able to download your “Hurricane Season Readiness Guide’ and “Hurricane Tracking Chart.”

Listen to the Government Radio station – SXMGOV 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow weather related news and information as well as national addresses by the Prime Minister, chairperson of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by going to @SXMGOV Facebook Page.

For official weather-related information, check out the website of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS): www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make it a bad season.  Be prepared!

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Ministry of TEATT, through its Inspectorate of Economic and Transport Affairs (IETA), acknowledges the circulation of a video on social media depicting a segment of an interaction between IETA Controllers and representatives of District 721 Night Club during a scheduled nighttime inspection conducted on May 7, 2025.

As part of ongoing enforcement activities, IETA officers were tasked with conducting noise level monitoring at multiple businesses in the Cole Bay and Simpson Bay areas, including but not limited to District 721. These inspections are routine, unannounced, and legally mandated to ensure compliance with applicable noise ordinances and to safeguard the quality of life for residents and visitors.

The video currently being circulated shows only a brief excerpt of a broader encounter and omits important context. At the time of the incident, IETA Controllers were positioned in a public area at a lawful distance from the establishment, preparing to take a sound level reading. It was at this point that representatives of District 721 left their premises and approached the officers, initiating a verbal confrontation.

Despite attempts by the officers to maintain a professional distance and de-escalate the situation, the individuals continued to engage in aggressive behavior, including shouting, inappropriate language, and attempts to interfere with government equipment. These actions amounted to obstruction of lawful inspection duties, which is a serious matter.

While the Inspectorate regrets that the interaction escalated, we reject the portrayal of our officers as unprofessional or biased. The team conducted themselves with restraint under pressure and remained focused on executing their assignment.

The Ministry wishes to remind the public that:

Nighttime inspections are a lawful and essential part of public order and noise ordinance enforcement.

All establishments, regardless of type or ownership, are subject to the same regulatory framework.

Obstructing, threatening, or interfering with civil servants in the performance of their duties is prohibited and will be formally documented and referred to legal authorities when appropriate.

The Ministry of TEATT remains committed to transparency, fair enforcement, and constructive engagement with the business community. We encourage all establishments to cooperate respectfully with inspection personnel and to direct any concerns through the proper administrative channels.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Funtopia Youth Initiative Foundation is thrilled to announce its inaugural Open House on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Philipsburg Sports Auditorium from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Join us as we introduce vulnerable youth and those with limited access to creative opportunities to the vibrant world of performing arts and self-expression!

This event is dedicated to showcasing talent, welcoming new volunteers, and creating essential opportunities for those who need them most. FYIF youth members, along with their mentors and volunteers, will display their skills in stilt walking, face painting, dance, balloon twisting, and statuing, offering live performances and engaging mini-workshops to inspire and connect with the community.

We are looking for 10 passionate volunteers who want to join our youth-led team and help make a difference.

A community eager to inspire and be inspired—let's work together to introduce 100 young people to these thrilling opportunities!

By joining us, you will not only experience the creativity and energy of FYIF but also play a vital role in supporting and empowering youth who may not have access to such experiences otherwise.

Visit the sxmdoet.com website and register today for the FYIF Open House.

Get involved today—let’s create a lasting impact together! Whether you're an aspiring artist, a community enthusiast, or someone looking to make a positive change, this is your chance to contribute meaningfully and be part of something extraordinary. The Funtopia Youth Initiative Foundation believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to explore their passions and develop their skills in a nurturing environment.

By volunteering, you'll not only help cultivate these young talents but also gain invaluable experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime. The Open House promises to be a day filled with joy, learning, and connection, bringing together individuals from all walks of life united by a shared mission of empowerment and creativity.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness the transformative power of the arts and community engagement. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and prepare to be inspired! Together, we can build a brighter future for the youth in our community.

PHILIPSBURG:---  Klimaxx Karnival proudly extends heartfelt thanks to every reveler, supporter, and partner who helped bring our debut to life during Carnival 2025. This first-year appearance was a testament to passion, resilience, and unity, and it could not have been achieved without the unwavering energy and commitment of those who trusted us with their Carnival experience. From feathers to fêting, the KLIMAXX EXPERIENCE made its mark.

A special and sincere thank you goes out to het Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, whose support of our Cultural Wear section was instrumental in honoring the legacy of the late Lady Ruby Bute. Through this tribute, Klimaxx was able to celebrate the richness of our heritage and uplift the memory of one of St. Maarten’s most iconic cultural figures in front of thousands. To the family and estate of Lady Bute, thank you for allowing us to carry her story forward.

We also express our deepest gratitude to our Platinum Sponsor, Flow, for believing in our vision and joining us in delivering an unforgettable experience. Your support enabled new opportunities, broader reach, and impactful visibility for Klimaxx Karnival. To our Silver Sponsor, Prime, thank you for your belief in our team and mission—your contribution helped make our creative execution a reality. To all of our supporting sponsors, remember that you made the KLIMAXX EXPERIENCE a reality!

As we look ahead to 2026, Klimaxx Karnival is just getting started. This year has laid the foundation for continued growth, stronger partnerships, and an even bolder presence. We invite everyone—past revelers, future supporters, and the broader community—to stay connected as we prepare for an even greater KLIMAXX next Carnival season!