Beyond the official July 14th ceremonies, several personalities, associations and public officials were honored for their commitment and contribution to the development of the territory.
First to be distinguished, Antoine BakerA self-taught entrepreneur born in Concordia, he received a certificate of recognition for his entire career. Starting in carpentry before expanding into real estate, vehicle rentals, and then the hotel industry with Baker's Suites Hotel, he also trained many young people from Saint-Martin. His journey, marked by hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to sharing knowledge, was celebrated.
The cultural and folkloric association Grain d'Or, founded in 1988 by Juliette Mingau and chaired since 2015 by Guy MingauShe was also among the recipients. For nearly forty years, she has preserved and passed on the dances, songs, and traditions of Saint-Martin and the Caribbean. An ambassador of local culture, she has notably organized fourteen traditional dance festivals.
Le Saint-Martin Carnival Festivities Committee He too was recognized for his commitment to the carnival on the French side of the island since 2011. Despite funding and organizational challenges, his volunteers continue their efforts to promote this iconic event in the region. Luciana Raspail, head of the committee, is already preparing the 2027 edition of the carnival, which will take place from January 28 to February 7.
Another highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the book 'Footprints' to twelve agents with a combined total of more than 35 years of public service: Marie-Line Hughes-Richards, Lucien Griffith, Christine Bosqui, Jules Joe, Alex Richards, Philoména Plaisant, Albert Conner, Louis Baly, Brenda Ellis, Fabien Gumbs, Christian Champare et Delphine Baray. Directed by The Friendly BooksThis book brings together their testimonies and traces the paths that have accompanied the evolution of Saint-Martin, from its communal era to its current status.
The project's designers were also praised: Thomas Proust et Alexandra Hubert, in charge of artistic direction and production, Stephi Gumbswho collected testimonies from the officers, as well as the photographer Alexandra Schaedewhose portraits help to preserve this collective memory.
This ceremony thus paid tribute to those who, in fields as varied as entrepreneurship, culture, volunteering or public service, have been contributing for decades to writing the history of Saint-Martin.
