PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- This week marks Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week which is from May 06 -12. The theme for the week is: Small Bite Big Threat! “Stop Disease Transmission, Start Source Reduction.”

The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) is committed to keeping the public informed and making frequent ‘calls to action’ to the community to take action and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

CPS is appealing once again to continue to take action after every rainfall event to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and in doing so protects our community from mosquito borne diseases.

At the 17th Special Session of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government on public health threats held in November 2014, the Heads approved a proposal for the establishment of an annual Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week.

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) says the burden of vector borne diseases in the Caribbean remains a significant challenge, and Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week (CAMAW) is vital to addressing this issue by ensuring that you, the public, are informed and empowered to make a difference.

CARPHA adds that the theme, "Small bite, big threat," alongside this year’s slogan, ‘Stop disease transmission, start source reduction,’ serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need for proactive measures against these arboviral vectors. By destroying mosquito breeding sites, we prevent them from multiplying and potentially limit the spread of these terrible diseases.

The objective of such a week is to strengthen existing initiatives and mobilize the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites from public and private places.

CPS supports the CARPHA campaign this week and appeals to the community to always be on alert to act right after a rainfall event to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a half inch of water.  This is not a lot of water, and plant saucers are one of those unassuming places that can gather a small amount and still be a huge breeding site for your backyard mosquito.

Source reduction is the key to decreasing the mosquito population. Due to the tropical nature of our climate, breeding habitats are in abundance, and many of them are unfortunately man-made.

For issues surrounding mosquito breeding sites, contact CPS’ vector control team by calling 542-1222/1570 or 914. Ask to be contacted by the vector control team.

You can also email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with supporting pictures and contact information to report a mosquito nuisance or request assistance.

Eradicating mosquito breeding sites should become a habitual lifestyle of each citizen, let us minimize the mosquito population at its source!

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is once again urging all drivers to comply with parking regulations on N. Debrot Street (opposite the Police Station) and Codville Webster Street (after the Central Bank). Despite numerous warnings, fines, and previous vehicle tows, illegal parking continues to escalate to a point that now seriously endangers public order and road safety. Four vehicles were towed during this operation.

N. Debrot Street has effectively become a one-lane road due to illegally parked vehicles, resulting in daily confrontations between motorists approaching from opposite directions. What should be a functional two-way road has become a bottleneck of traffic tensions, confusion, and aggressive behavior, posing risks to pedestrians, drivers, and emergency response services.

On Wednesday, May 7th, KPSM officers resumed active enforcement operations, including towing multiple vehicles parked in violation of traffic laws on N. Debrot Street. This action follows a long-standing series of public warnings and citations issued to offenders.

KPSM emphasizes that vehicles found parked in violation on either N. Debrot Street or Codville Webster Street will be towed without further warning. Vehicle owners will bear all associated towing and administrative costs.

This situation is no longer merely a convenience issue—it is now a public safety concern. The Police Force of Sint Maarten is committed to maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all road users. 

KPSM urges the public to adhere to posted parking signs and always exercise responsible driving behavior. Continued disregard for the law will result in strict enforcement measures.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has always been a decisive figure in St. Martin’s political landscape. From his bold actions in firing former Minister Emil Lee and the Leona Marlin cabinet to leading the government through subsequent transition periods, Dr. Mercelina has consistently stood at the forefront of significant changes. However, his reaction to Terrence Rey’s thought-provoking article titled "Carnival Coup is Cancelled" has brought his commitment to political stability into even sharper focus.

A Spotlight on Terrence Rey’s Article

Terrence Rey’s article, infused with wit and a dose of satire, explores the paradoxical relationship between political stability and public perception in St. Martin. Rey introduces readers to the notion that governments remembered by history are often those marked by dramatic upheavals or crises. His observation, “wars are remembered, coups are catalogued, but nobody writes about the boring bits,” underscores the public's fascination with political chaos over quiet competence.

Rey writes of a government described as “Cabinet Mercelina,” a nod to its smooth and dependable performance in maintaining stability. His argument suggests that political peace may make people uneasy, as the absence of conflict is not as newsworthy as turmoil. For a community historically inclined to political drama, his critique cuts deep, comparing the steady governance approach to a year “soaked in rum but without a twist of betrayal.”

The article humorously warns, “if the current government dares to survive another Carnaval, we may make history the wrong way,” suggesting that a lack of scandal or crisis could render this administration forgettable. It’s a satirical reflection on how stability might lack the glamour required to leave a legacy.

PM Mercelina’s Response and Vision

Prime Minister Mercelina’s reaction to the article is marked by both respect and disagreement. He commends Terrence Rey for his sharp writing and acknowledges satirical brilliance, but he firmly rebuts the underlying message. "This administration is determined to change that narrative," he said. Mercelina envisions a St. Maarten where political stability becomes the norm, not the exception. He believes the time has come for governance to focus on sustainable development and accountability rather than the theatrics of political crises.

Reflecting on Rey's claim that chaos and bacchanal are ingrained in St. Maarten’s political culture, Mercelina emphasized the need to break free from this trope. He pointed out that the people, through recent elections, expressed their desire for continuity in government. There is no longer room for the dramatic collapses and betrayals of the past. Instead, his administration is focused on building a steady foundation for the country’s future, emphasizing competence over chaos and caution over conflict.

Mercelina challenged the idea that wars and coups are the sole markers of historical significance, arguing instead for a legacy built on sustainable governance, economic progress, and opportunities for the people. “Political crises should be a thing of the past,” he stated firmly, reinforcing his administration’s aim to foster a new era of constructive collaboration aimed at propelling prosperity.

A Time for Accountability and Opportunity

Prime Minister Mercelina's reflections carry a powerful message for the people of St. Martin. He believes that moving forward means holding both the government and voters to high standards of accountability. If and when political instability arises, it is crucial for the electorate to identify and address those responsible. Dr. Mercelina called on the public to support the government's efforts to prioritize sustainable development and opportunities for all citizens.

His vision for St. Martin includes making political stability and good governance the legacy of his administration. With this renewed focus, Mercelina hopes to lead a country that thrives not on chaos but on constructive progress, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

A Final Remark

“In reading Mr. Terrence Rey’s article, I was struck by the clever way it shines a light on our political culture,” said Dr. Mercelina. “While I respectful disagree with the idea that only unrest and crises leave a legacy, I thank Mr. Rey for sparking an important conversation. It is time for St. Maarten to make its history not through upheaval but through unity, stability, and growth. This administration is committed to that vision, and we’ll dedicate ourselves to ensuring that political peace is not only embraced but valued as the backbone of progress.”

St. Maarten stands at the dawn of a new phase, and Dr. Mercelina is determined to see it flourish as a country defined by resilience, accountability, and sustainable governance.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Holistic health writer Roseann Rumnit, a proud descendant of Sint Maarten and native of Aruba, has generously donated her debut book, “How to Get to the Bridge”, to the Sint Maarten Library and the wider community.

As a certified Health Detoxification Specialist, Rumnit shares her deeply personal journey to raise awareness about the importance of living intentionally and prioritizing health. Her book encourages readers to make more conscious lifestyle choices and explores natural home remedies that supported her through her own health challenges.

“How to Get to the Bridge” is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but rather a complementary guide that emphasizes wellness through healthy nutrition, hydration, and holistic practices. The book highlights the value of agricultural awareness, herbal medicine, detoxification techniques, and traditional remedies that may assist in managing health concerns and promoting body cleansing.

Featuring brief definitions of health terms, common diseases, recipes, and time-honored remedies, “How to Get to the Bridge” serves as a practical pocket guide. Rooted in Sint Maarten’s local traditions, it offers readers accessible self-help insights grounded in cultural knowledge.

The Sint Maarten Library is honored to support local authors and provide a platform for their voices. General Manager Marc Marshall, together with library staff, graciously accepted the donation and proudly added Rumnit’s work to the collection.

The book is now available to the public and represents a valuable addition to the library’s health and wellness offerings.

The Sint Maarten Library remains committed to inspiring a love for reading and lifelong learning. Through its diverse collection and community-focused programs, the library continues to serve as a vital hub for education and cultural enrichment on the island.