Dear Editor,
A little more than a month ago, a lady who is well known to us, and who I am sure would not mind if I mentioned her name in connection with what I am about to write to you, wanted to know my opinion on what I later called a billboard jungle.
I had not witnessed it yet, so I had no opinion. I usually encourage people to write to you themselves, because their opinion is not my opinion and the way they express themselves might appeal to your readers differently than when I write. I had promised her to take a look and believe it or not, when I saw what that lady was so messed up about, my first reaction was and still is that to me that is blatant disregard by the complete government of Sint Maarten.
Yes, I am referring to that billboard jungle at the airport. I will even dare state that the open space between the billboards is destined for political propaganda. I do not know who bought into that but, that too seems to be a complot because to be able to read what is on those bill boards while driving along is impossible. Why would I pay for commercials that nobody has time to look at, much less read?
Any reasonable thinking person would know that that situation is a traffic hazard.
It took me a while to get the information that I needed to be able to write to you. I was told that that land belongs to a well-known businessman,who is usually involved in Carnival and cricket.
It would not be surprising if, because of where that piece of land is situated, in the near future we hear that that land was sold to the government in connection with airport business. And then your readers would say that Russell said it. Which would not be true, because I do not say anything, I write it, because that is how I would like for people in government to be, when they are taking decisions which will affect the people (which actually is always). Put it black on white and stand responsible!
Now this. On page 5 of the paper of June 7th, 2023, in the article "Flag Day to be commemorated with patriotic school parade", is stated that "Persons are also reminded to follow proper protocol and etiquette of how the flag should be displayed". By now I believe that all of your readers are aware that I am constantly hammering on the lack of the Bible in schools, and the lack of civics as part of the curriculum in schools. May I suggest that the government make use of your paper (Government info page) and print the "Flag Ordinance" and the proper protocol and etiquette of how the flag should be displayed. I do not believe that the flag of a country is part of a canaval display and therefore it should be displayed in the correct manner. I am sure that draping the national flag over the bonnet of motor vehicles is forbidden and letting the flag drag on the ground is definitely forbidden..
I have not called on the Minister of Justice to do anything, because I realize how busy she has been since accepting that position. Besides that, I expect the police brass to pick up the slack. That is how I know the police operate. But I believe that that billboard jungle next to the airport is a question of know better do better and should not remain unattended to. Professionals should do it the professional way.
By the way, I applaud those drivers who decide to pull over to talk on the phone, but you should pull off the road completely and not just pull over and stop.
Russell A. Simmons
