Good morning, Grand Case!
In Grand Case, 21 July is a rather special celebration that honours a small fishing village that has become the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean, the birth of Victor Schœlcher – the architect of the decree abolishing slavery in 1848 – as well as the traditions, heritage and identity of Saint Martin. It is a blend of history, culture and conviviality that helps to bring the local community together for the patron saint’s festivities.
Following the Mass celebrated, as it is every year, at Mary Star of the Sea Church, the procession – led by the vice-chairwoman Marie-Hildegarde Chauveau and the first vice-president of the Collectivité, Alain Richardson, made a detour via Rue des Écoles to inaugurate the brand-new premises intended to house Neighbourhood Council No. 2. A short break was followed by the traditional parade in front of a small crowd; this year, only two groups took part: the Sonic Drum Band and the children from the CTOS after-school club.
When Grand Case shines, Saint Martin shines
In the presence of elected representatives, officials from government departments, the gendarmerie, the fire brigade and numerous local dignitaries, the sub-prefect Marie-Hildegarde Chauveau, representing the prefect, and then Alain Richardson, first vice-president of the Collectivité, representing Louis Mussington, who was away in Paris, delivered the customary speeches. Alain Richardson highlighted the symbolic significance of 21 July, before discussing the development of Grand Case and its current reputation, which makes it a true showcase thanks to its culinary offerings, accommodation, shops and famous ‘lolos’. “When Grand Case shines, Saint Martin shines,” he summarised, emphasising that this heritage is now one of the territory’s finest showcases. Beyond paying tribute to Grand Case’s history and identity, each speech is also an opportunity to reaffirm the choices made during the current term of office. Alain Richardson, speaking on behalf of President Mussington, did not fail to do just that, listing the projects carried out in the neighbourhood over the past four years – the restoration of the church, work at the Élie Gibbs schools (changing rooms for the swimming school) and Ghislaine Rogers schools (offices and break areas for teaching assistants), and the installation of lighting at the football pitch – as well as those due to be completed by the start of the new school year: the refurbishment of the sports facilities, pavements in La Savane and the foundations of the Maison des associations. He also addressed security issues, highlighting the opening of the local police station in June, whilst acknowledging that “it must now be more accessible and even more present in residents’ daily lives”.
The Vice-President also announced that the Collectivité wished to provide better support for residents, particularly in areas where Grand Case is a leader, such as steel pan and traditional sailing. Focusing more on the historical significance of the day, the sub-prefect, Marie-Hildegarde Chauveau, emphasised that the abolition of slavery was “a triumph for humanity” and that Victor Schœlcher must continue to inspire collective action. Taking a more pragmatic view, she also pointed out that the State is firmly committed to supporting the Collectivité and that €10 million has been invested in the youth centre, the community centre and sanitation works.
