News
Island Report News, events, and happenings around St. Maarten/St. Martin St. Maarten/St. Martin co-hosting symposium
For the first time, in 2015, the International Caribbean Archaeology Association (IACA) will host their biennial congress at two locations simultaneously. Hosts Anguilla and St. Maarten/St. Martin will actually make it a tri-nation affair attracting the largest gathering of Caribbean archaeologists in the region. Celebrated resident archaeologist Dr. Jay Haviser (knighted for his exemplary work throughout the Dutch Caribbean) is delighted that an event of this magnitude will further put this island on the archaeology enthusiast’s map.
Dr. Jay Haviser
Swing bridge at Simpson Bay
“It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing” is the mantra behind the creative construction of the new causeway/bridge at Simpson Bay. When completed, it will be the only turning bridge in the Caribbean – an innovative solution to alleviate traffic congestion, while at the same time accommodating increased marine traffic. Two feeder roads with roundabouts will complete the ease of access to Cole Bay, the airport, and other parts of the island, and there will also be a protected walkway and bike path. “Be The Change” helps island causes
This non-profit foundation helps island causes raise much-needed funds. In the past year they have helped the St. Maarten Nature Foundation, I Love My Island Dog Association, Art Saves Lives, I-Can Children’s Home, Voices Foundation, and more. Founder Erika Cannegieter says, “Inspired by the Mahatma Gandhi quote ‘Be the change you wish to see in this world’, we strive to help the often overlooked, neglected, and unknown social movements on our small 37-square-mile island.” You can help. Donations and volunteers are always welcome! For more info, visit www.bethechangesxm.com. 20 Nights
Be The Change Board Members, left to right: Melanie Choisy, Erika Cannegieter, and Linda Cocks
Artists Talu Green and Daisha Graf for Be The Change Foundation
Photos, top to bottom, courtesy of Jay Haviser / SIMARC, Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC), and Be The Change