PHILIPSBURG:---  In a progressive step toward strengthening community support for individuals on the autism spectrum, The Spectrum Support Box met with the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), Richinel S.J. Brug, on April 14, 2025, to discuss collaborative opportunities and unveil their year-long vision for the island of St. Maarten.

Ms. Alisha Brookes, Lead Consultant of The Spectrum Support Box, led the meeting, accompanied by Consultant Dr. Lucien York and Ms. Ashley Dambruck, the organization’s Public Relations and Marketing Strategist and mother to an eight-year-old autistic son. Policy Advisor Mr. Michael Somersall supported the meeting.

During the discussion, Ms. Brookes shared her professional background in special education and her commitment to providing actionable solutions for the autism and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) community. “I’m not just here to talk about the problems; I’m here with solutions,” she stated. “We are ready to collaborate with ministries and organizations to support persons on the spectrum better.”

Ms. Brookes outlined The Spectrum Support Box's mission as a holistic support system for children and adults with SEND diagnoses. “We’re here for families, educators, employers, and the wider community,” she said. She emphasized that matters concerning persons on the spectrum fall under the Ministry of VSA because autism is a neurological and developmental condition that affects individuals across their lifespans.

Dr. York echoed the urgency of the mission. “I’ve worked closely with families here on the island and witnessed the lack of available support. Many parents feel forced to leave St. Maarten in search of services in countries like the Netherlands. That shouldn’t be necessary,” he said.

Ms. Dambruck offered a heartfelt perspective as a parent. “Raising an autistic child as a single mother without the right resources is extremely difficult. The support I’ve received from The Spectrum Support Box has made a meaningful difference. This work is necessary.”

Minister Brug expressed deep appreciation for the team’s presentation and pledged his support. “This isn’t just a matter of policy this is about community,” said Minister Brug. He committed to having the ministry explore opportunities for future collaboration.

As part of their year plan, The Spectrum Support Box also announced its upcoming Autism Symposium, to be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the University of St. Martin. The event will bring together families, educators, professionals and community members to share knowledge, foster understanding and build stronger support systems.

The meeting concluded with a symbolic handshake and a group photo, marking the beginning of a meaningful partnership focused on advocacy, inclusion and change.

Hosted by: Still Beautiful, Positive, and Elektralyets Foundation
Facilitator: Ms. Shirley Serbony
Date: April 23, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: RC4C / 4C Foundation, A. T. Illidge Road #60 Unit 1.1

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Still Beautiful, Positive, and Elektralyets Foundation is pleased to announce the next breast cancer support group session of the year. This meeting will provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals affected by breast cancer.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Judith Euson-Richardson, MD, MPH
Topic: Navigating Life After Diagnosis: Coping with Mental Health Challenges
Dr. Judith Euson-Richardson, originally from Sint Maarten, is a physician with extensive training in medicine and public health. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands before pursuing graduate studies at Howard University in Washington, DC, where she obtained a Master of Science in Biochemistry. She later received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the Howard University College of Medicine.
Dr. Richardson began her medical career with specialized training in General Surgery at the State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate in Brooklyn and Howard University Hospital in Washington, DC. She subsequently completed a dual residency in Preventive and Occupational Medicine at the University of New Mexico. She earned a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a concentration in Health Systems, Services, and Policy.
Her diverse professional experience includes positions at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the New Mexico Department of Health, and UNM Hospital. Currently, she serves as an Occupational Health Physician and Medical Advisor at SZV Social & Health Insurance. With over two decades of clinical experience behind her, Dr. Richardson established Essence Health & Wellness Clinic in Sint Maarten. This medical practice is dedicated to promoting holistic physical well-being through comprehensive education and wellness initiatives tailored to the needs of the local population.
Recap of This Year's Sessions:
• January: Ms. Shirley Serbony facilitated an interactive session focused on fostering community and connection through shared experiences. Participants praised the session for creating a strong sense of community and felt uplifted by the supportive environment.
• February: Ms. Shirley Serbony led a discussion on "2025 Bingo Card Goals," a fun and interactive way to set and track your goals for 2025. The session was a resounding success, with participants expressing gratitude for the supportive environment and valuable insights shared.
• March: Dr. Marlon Buncamper, M.D, a renowned reconstructive surgeon, delivered an insightful presentation on breast reconstruction surgeries and considerations when deciding to have reconstructive surgery. Attendees appreciated the detailed explanations and found the information helpful in making informed decisions.
We invite all members of the community to join us for an evening of support, encouragement, and shared experiences. This is a safe space for:
• Breast cancer patients
• Survivors
• Family members and loved ones
Let’s come together to share stories, offer support, and uplift each other. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, navigating treatment, or thriving in survivorship, this group is here for you. Let’s continue the year with hope, connection, and strength!
For more information, please contact:
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: +1-721-588-8020

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Fire Department is asking the community to be safe this Easter holiday weekend, which runs from Friday, April 18, until and including Monday, April 21.

Many people will be heading to the beach for various watersports activities and having a funday with family and friends. Safety should always be a concern.

Keep a watchful eye on young children who cannot swim; make sure that their flotation devices are in proper working condition. Tragic water events can happen quickly.

Pay attention to senior family members who are swimming. The beach can be fun and an enjoyable experience, so it’s up to you to stay safe.

Watch out for strong water currents. Stay in shallow water.

Exercise safe cooking practices in the kitchen to prevent kitchen fires and burn injuries. While at the beach barbecuing, pay keen attention that young children are not close by.

After a successful BBQ, don’t forget to clean up all utensils from your family/friend Easter holiday beach experience and properly dispose of them in a garbage bin. Once coals have been completely extinguished, remove them so the beach environment is returned to its original state.

Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children this Easter holiday weekend.

The Fire Department wishes all a safe and happy Easter holiday weekend.

The Fire Department falls under the Ministry of General Affairs.
In the event of a fire emergency, call 919.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, and the Department of Communication (DCOMM), are urging motorists not to “Drink and Drive, and Drive Sober” for the Easter holiday weekend and upcoming Carnival festivities.

There will be lots to eat and drink this Easter holiday weekend and for the upcoming Carnival festivities. When tipsy, let your designated driver take the wheel or call a taxi.

The emphasis is on keeping everyone driving on our roads safe this festive season.

CPS advises members of the community to check family and friends before they get behind the steering wheel of a car, especially after they have had a few drinks.

Every driver can reduce tragedy on the country’s roads.  Be responsible, select a designated driver if you plan to have a couple of drinks with family or friends.

During this Easter holiday extended weekend and upcoming Carnival festivities, drive sober! Don’t drink and drive, because drunk-driving can result in a serious injury or even worse, death.

Make sure everyone has a sober ride home if you’re hosting an Easter holiday gathering and attending Carnival events.  Don’t let someone get behind the wheel if that person has been drinking. Have a designated driver.

Don’t speed up this holiday weekend or during Carnival festivities!  Always wear your seat belt. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers. Be responsible, drive safely.