P. O. Box 407, Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean, Phone 786-6518, 786-6125, www.bonairereporter.com email: [email protected] Since 1994

Herman van Leeuwen photo This Week’s Stories Commissioner of Tourism Bur- for baggage in line with the by 1% year-on-year. Two succes- Food Bank 3 Tourism History– Earliest Days 5 ney elHage to voice their com- trend set by budget carriers. sive contractions means the coun- A Life Changing Voyage 6 plaints. Further meetings are People using internal European try is officially in recession. Ear- Helmets On Wheels –CIEE 7 planned to resolve the issues. flights will have to pay 15 euros lier this week, CBS said inflation In Memory of Victor 7 (JMD) for each piece of checked luggage has now reached 3%, its highest Lighthouses of Bonaire– t appears that the bankrupt if paid for in advance. Luggage level in four years. Ft. Oranje. part 2 8 I company Ecopower, which checked in at the airport will cost Mystery Gourmet-Bobbejan 9 generates electricity for Bon- 30 euros per piece and hand lug- In Motion-Healthier Life 9 aire, will be purchased from the gage will remain free of charge. 95 Bonaire Years-Ambassadors 9 custodian bank, Rabo Bank, by Fishing Line Cleanup 10 Congratulations-Kristel, Mark and ContourGlobal L.P. a company Bregje Anneke 10 that appears qualified for the task. THE HAGUE--The Oranje- Letters: Overwintering, BHM not BHG, ContourGlobal L.P. acquires, Fonds (Orange Fund) in The Borrow Money, Fly Divi Divi 11 develops, and operates electric Netherlands has come up with a Karnaval 12 power and district heating busi- creative idea to dedicate special Useful Gadgets -Bar-end mirror 14 nesses. It also develops and oper- attention to the inauguration of Voice of Bonaire 15 ates central generating stations to King Willem-Alexander and to Get Fit! 15 supply power to electrical grids. involve the people of the Dutch Holiday Destination-Bonaire The company serves governments BONAIRE--Bonaire’s real This Lear Jet 35A will be Caribbean. The fund is organiz- Guest Editorial 17 Prison Tourism 19 and multinational companies in estate tax (vastgoedbelasting) performing air-ambulance ing a special edition of the Ap- Top to Top 21 the US, the European Union, assessments were mailed out in flights abroad for the ZVK peltjes van Oranje (Orange Ap- Walkathon 2013 21 Brazil, Colombia, Togo, Rwanda, January 2013, stating what is (Government health insurance), ples), called the Kroonappels (the Departments Nigeria, Ukraine, and internation- owed. Since the assessment of in close cooperation with Fun- Crown Apples). Organizations on Flotsam & Jetsam 2 ally. The company was founded 2011 is being levied simultane- dashon Mariadal (San Francisco the islands are asked to select Born on Bonaire… Sam Williams 4 in 2005 and is based in New ously with the assessment of Hospital). their most precious social initia- Piece of Paradise– Which Home? 8 York, New York. 2012, the State Secretary set the tives already existing in their Picture Yourself-Lost City, San Diego, On Jan. 18, 2013, Standard & effective rate at 0.6% for these Last week a group led by district or on their island before 2012 Winner 14 Poor's Ratings Services assigned two years. Nelson Ramiz took over all the March 8. The Reporter believes Sudoku, Sudoku Answer 16 Classifieds 16 it a 'B+' corporate credit rating. The property tax is intended shares of airline DAE (Dutch there are several qualified can- Tide Table, Sunrise & Sunset The Bonaire opposition party primarily for owners of a second Antilles Express) and related didates on Bonaire. Times, Moon Phase 16 has called for transparency in the home in Bonaire, St. Eustatius or companies from former owner There are three categories: Bonairean Humor 17 process and wants Bonaire’s wa- Saba and non-natural persons Niek Sandman, the original youth, neighborhood and helping Shopping & Dining Guides 18 ter and power distribution com- (entities) who own real estate. founder of the failed Bonaire hand. People can vote for the What’s Happening, Masthead. pany made part of the process. “If you own your own dwelling Exel airline. Ramiz is also the initiative of choice for their island Cruise Ships 20 WEB’s director has publicly and you also live in it or if you owner of the aircraft leasing com- from March 15 to 17 on the Web- Pet of the Week (Puppy Time) 22 stated that the ownership of the rent a house, you do not pay vast- pany Falcon Air which rents site www.kroonappels.com. Did You Know –Coral Reef Snails 22 island’s electric power production goedbelasting. equipment to DAE. Ramiz says, The initiatives with the most The Stars Have It (Astrology) 23 Sky Park (Best and Brightest.) 23 process should remain in local If you have a second house and "This is the first and only restruc- votes will proceed to the second hands. its value is $50,000 or lower, this turing of a local airline where no round where the organizations tax will not be applicable. For employee will lose his job. Dur- will review each other. One win- How to contact us

The Tourist Bureau’s new this reason, you may receive an ing the restructuring in 2012 we ner is chosen from each category. Find Bonaire Reporter on Face- office hours will be Monday assessment of $0, as in that case had 55% more passengers than in The three final winning organiza- book. Press “Like” through Friday, 7:30 am to 5 the value of your property is 2011. We saw 66% more sales tions will receive a Kroonappel, a pm non-stop. The TCB front equal to or lower than US and the fleet is three times as big. prize consisting of 50,000 euros Letters to the Editor: office will stay open during the $50,000” stated a release of the Two additional MD-83 aircraft and a bronze statue. The prizes [email protected] usual lunch break hours. Tax Service Caribbean Nether- are to be added in May for flights will be presented by the future Story tip or idea: After performing a successful lands BCN. to Maracaibo and Valencia and King and Queen at the Noor- [email protected] trial run with excellent results, Some exemptions have been for new routes to Quito and Lima. deinde Palace in The Hague. TCB has decided to change the included, for example, “dormant” The airline will probably be re- The Publisher: office hours permanently. This is property if the owner is an inhabi- named in 2014 or 2015 when it Soldiers from the Dutch [email protected] a modest part of the new policies tant of the Caribbean Nether- adds a new A319 and A320 to army company stationed in the Box 407, Bonaire, they’re planning in the near fu- lands, or property which is part of replace its fleet.” Caribbean were recently on Dutch Caribbean ture. Feel free to contact TCB the equity of a proprietorship, Bonaire for a military exercise Phone 786-6125, 786-6518 director Mr. Ethsel Pieternella, commercially exploited culture Two empty bags found by and also made themselves use- Available on-line at: www.bonairereporter.com via email: ethselpieternella ground for agriculture and for- nature hikers on Bonaire’s ful to the community. Apart @tourismbonaire.com or phone estry as well as nature reserves. coast near Bakuna last week on from getting to know the island Printed Every Fortnight, at 717-8322. Sunday turned out to have be- and the local auxiliary services, On-line every day, 24/7  Last week, the police took longed to Italian fashion mag- they assisted with various activi- Next edition printing on Last week the workers at action in connection with possi- nate Vittorio Missoni (58) and ties. For example, the soldiers Monday, March 4 the Tourism Corporation Bon- ble illegal prostitution and his wife Maurizia Castiglioni. moved an obstacle course for aire (TCB) staged a walkout to whether there was exploitation The couple had been in a private Rebound, an organization that Story and Ad deadline: protest the actions being taken (illegal) of prostitutes. This BN2 Islander plane that had left offers problem children a chance Friday, March 1 by the TCB Board of Directors. check was held at three different from the Los Roques islands of in society. They also helped They are unhappy that they , as bars on Kaya Korona, Kaya Kaya Venezuela for Caracas on January STINAPA with cleaning up sev- their faces must be visible. The men well as the new director who was Patachi and Karanja. Documents 4 but had never arrived. Kite- eral beaches and breeding have been asked to wear a dark suit, recently named, cannot do their were checked to determine if the surfing equipment that had been grounds for turtles. The soldiers NOS television reported. The inau- jobs. They feel the Board of Di- persons in the bars were legally on board had already washed have since returned to Curacao. guration of Willem-Alexander rectors is running everything or illegally staying on the island. ashore in Curaçao two weeks The company in “The West” is takes place on April 30 in Nieuwe rather than functioning in a super- One bar was closed and in the later. Its German owner had not staffed by the 11th airborne bri- Kerk in Amsterdam. The ceremony visory capacity and many of its others six people were questioned been on the aircraft as scheduled, gade of The Netherlands this will not involve a coronation and actions are to benefit particular by staff of the Department of because he had been late and had year. there are no religious aspects to it. commercial and personal inter- Immigration. No one was ar- taken a later flight. ests. The board does not respect rested, but investigation is ongo- AMSTERDAM—Female THE HAGUE—Fewer people the new director and treats him ing. THE HAGUE--The Dutch MPs and senators attending the from the Dutch Caribbean mi- like an office manager, dictating The application for the Gen- economy shrank by 0.2% in the inauguration of new King Wil- grated to The Netherlands in 2012. to him what must be done. These tlemen’s Heaven brothel in Hato final quarter of last year, mean- lem-Alexander have been re- The number of people from the is- actions of the board are against was formally rejected by the gov- ing The Netherlands is now quested not to wear large hats lands who left The Netherlands in- the statutes governing the func- ernment and the owners warned back in recession, according to to the ceremony, according to creased in that same year, prelimi- tion of the TCB. The workers not to operate. Pachi’s Place, initial estimates released by Cen- media reports. Women should nary figures released by the Dutch joined with officials of the Bon- Bonaire’s previous legal brothel, tral Bureau for Statistics (CBS) wear “afternoon attire” and a Central Bureau for Statistics (CBS) aire Government Workers Union was closed at the end of last year. on Thursday. Year-on-year, the large hat would be undesirable. showed. Some 3,700 people from the (ABVO) to meet with the Direc- economy contracted 0.9% in the This is because during the cere- former Netherlands Antilles and tor of the government holding THE HAGUE--Royal Dutch final quarter, CBS said. In the mony, all MPs and senators have (Continued on page 19) company, BHM, as well as with Airline KLM will introduce fees third quarter, the economy shrank to swear an oath of allegiance and

Page 2 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Food Bank Bonaire When Marjon came to Bonaire a year ago she started to volunteer for the animal shelter and began to see for herself the extent to which people go hungry. The age groups most affected are the 65 +, single and young mothers and the men- tally and physically handicapped. She wanted to do something practical, simple and immediate to make a differ- ence. She met other like minded people and between them they set up the Voed- selbank Bonaire.

Their aim is to collect unwanted food or food that people specially buy for the charity, bundle it up into parcels and de- liver them to local churches where the pastor will distribute them. FORMA is also a distribution point for the food par- Food Bank founder Marjon Kranenburg and Democrat Councilman Nolly Oleana ow would you like it if you had to cels. Marjon feels that distribution via the H be dependent on a charity for your churches and FORMA allows people to terloo the treasurer and Nolly Oleana, less supermarket for allowing her to col- daily bread? keep their dignity as they remain anony- Daliza Victorina and Chantal Jansen are lect outside of their store free of charge mous to the charity. Marjon acknowl- committee members all working hard to and for providing the stall which the super It is a sad state of affairs in this day and edges that people are proud and some- provide immediate and practical relief to market’s staff erect and take down again. age that there are families on Bonaire that times ashamed of their predicament and in those who do not even have the basics. She would also like to thank Punta Blancu must depend on the Voedselbank (Food this way they can maintain some of their chicken farm for providing eggs for her Bank) Bonaire for food. The extent to dignity. Marjon sees the bigger picture of the food parcels. which this happens in yet unknown but situation on Bonaire but focuses on what Marjon Kranenburg who set up the char- The food parcels consist of oil, rice, she can practically do to make a differ- They are always looking for more ity states that in the two months of distrib- flour, washing powder, sugar, toilet paper, ence. Her aim is to do one thing well and volunteers. Please contact Marjon via uting her food parcels the demand for juice and milk in cartons, fruit and vegeta- hopefully in the future with more volun- email [email protected] them has increased by 10%. It will be a bles in jars or tins and meat and fish in teers and more funding she will be able to if you feel you can spare some time to while before she can provide an accurate tins. Any money raised goes towards sup- do more. One day Marjon hopes that there help her.  Story & photo by Carla Hay figure of those in need of the services her plementing the food parcels with items will be no need for her charity or that she charity has to offer, and in the meantime such as baby food and other items that is can at least supply all those in need of You can also make a donation at she is working hard to raise awareness, in short supply. food. Girobank Bonaire money and items of food suitable for in- Stichting voedselbank Bonaire clusion in her food parcels. The food bank is run by a committee of Marjon would like to publicly thank Account number 21101128 five. Marjon is the chairman, Maaike Ot- Van den Tweel supermarket and More for

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Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 3

’ve been interested in parrots since I parrots, because they have a people prob- “I was seven years old. A friend of the lem. You have to ask ‘Why are the parrots family had parrots and I started keeping eating this food?’ and it’s because their parrots at home. By the time I was a teen- habitat – the mondi of Bonaire – is very ager I had lots of parrots from all over the different from how it used to be. People world and different aviaries taking up half chopped down all the trees and then they the garden. I like all nature, but parrots are introduced animals – like goats and donkeys special and they are the most endangered – that prevent certain trees and plants from group of birds. regrowing. So the mondi is dominated by I first came here because I heard about spiky things that don’t get eaten by the progressive parrot conservation (called goats or donkeys. The Loras do eat seed ‘Loras’ on Bonaire) by the island’s govern- pods from those trees, but these trees only ment. At the time I was supported by the produce food at a certain time of the year. World Parrot Trust. From that we developed When there was a diversity of plants there a PHD research project, based at the Uni- was food year around, because when Co- versity of Sheffield, England. Then in 2006, lumbus came to the Caribbean he said ‘The 2007 and 2008 I returned with a research skies were darkened by parrots’. colleague, Rowan Martin. I was looking at Without question Bonaire could accom- the ecological problems the parrots were modate more parrots, but then the habitat facing with the idea to address those prob- needs to be restored. There are lots of peo- lems after research. ple working towards it amongst them When I was 16, I was given the opportu- STINAPA and the island’s government. nity to travel to Mauritius in the Indian This will be an incredible improvement for Sam in the kunuku garden Ocean where I worked with the Echo Para- the parrots and the people of Bonaire, be- cause trees are so nice to be around! When keet, which at the time was the world’s rar- photo by Sam Williams est bird. At the time it was estimated that you go to the mondi and you are under a there were only 16 individuals left. Now canopy of trees, it’s a great experience, but there are over 300. I was living in the forest there are only a few places on the island and it was just amazing; it was really pivotal where you have native trees over 10 meters to me. It opened my eyes that I needed to high. I would like to go back to that, but I protect wild populations and places. I went will never see that in my lifetime. The back to Mauritius a couple of times. I also Wayaka for example lives for a thousand went to Brazil because – I am lucky – par- years! It’s those big trees that would feed parrots and all the other animals that are “Without question Bonaire could accommodate more parrots, but then the habitat needs to be restored.” rots live in nice places! After Brazil it was meant to be here. Bonaire and here I am! Well, maybe we should go back to the In 2010 I established ‘Echo’ – which issue of conflict, that people who are grow- comes from Echo Parakeet. ‘Echo’ is a Bo- ing food are unhappy with the parrots. And nairean Conservation Foundation dedicated although we’re a tiny organization, we have to the conservation of the Bonairean Lora. looked at possible solutions like using We hope to contribute towards that by doing Warawara kites to deter parrots, and two research and monitoring so we can learn students from Chile and England are com- about the problems and the impact of our ing over to look at the problem.” actions. We do conservation management He laughs: “The parrots are smart; how- which is: growing native trees, building nest ever, there are still possibilities. Sarah and Sam boxes to replace the big trees that were I think… if you have lived in a place with- chopped down and it also includes the reha- out parrots, you would really appreciate we started our vegetable garden. It took a lot foundation which is focused on sustainable bilitation and release work when parrots them, and generally we walk around with of hard work, but I am not afraid of hard water management and so, going back to have been illegally captured. And, our third our ears and eyes closed and we see very physical work and neither is Sarah; we’re goals, we hope to show people how they can goal is outreach – where we share our pas- little around us. I was in Playa when I saw a loving it. Sarah is a physical therapist – a manage their water in a way that saves them sion for the parrot with the local commu- Peregrine Falcon. It’s the fastest animal in scary job to have right now. She works hard money and gives them the opportunity to nity. We take kids to the kunuku and we’ve the world. It can do 360 kilometers an hour and when we moved Echo to a new kunuku grow delicious foods for themselves and also developed a Google Earth Map with the and it’s big, it can have a wing span over we loaded up a pick up truck and a trailer reduces that environmental impact, because island’s trees. It’s basically getting kids into one meter. I looked at the people when I before dawn and… she was smiling! She the water on Bonaire is produced from sea nature. saw it slowly flying by - not at 360 kilome- also likes challenges and adventures, or… water using fossil fuels. This is only possible because we have a ters per hour – and nobody saw it! This you could say,” he laughs “she’s as crazy as I am definitely a conservationist and I am great team of people working here on the amazing thing happens and nobody sees it! I am. interested in sustainability. I am genuinely island, but also there are volunteers from Even enjoying a little banana quit for a mo- I think of myself still as a rock climber, a far too ambitious which gets me into trou- around the world who help us from their ment can enhance your day! But then, yeah, mountain biker, a kite surfer, but I’ve put all ble, but I am learning. But, maybe more homes. All this makes the organization hap- you won’t see them if you’re looking at those things on hold to get Echo going. than anything, I am willing to try things; get pen; without their dedication we wouldn’t your Blackberry! However, life is trickling back and there is past the fear and the failure and work hard have an organization! So, yeah, when I was a boy I used to keep more balance. I am back and I am doing and learn. Because I value nature and the The conservation of parrots has to involve parrots as pets. Here the people like that too. some. We’ve also been known to do a dance less material things I am a very satisfied people and that’s the hot topic on Bonaire But when you see their charismatic nature at Little Havana, but no matter what time I person. My outlook for the future… I right now. This morning I had five parrots and their intelligence at work in the wild – get home, I am up at five – no need for an should say… yeah, three kids, a large fam- in my garden, eating the Pomegranates and where they are meant to be – I believe it’s a alarm - to work in the garden, so the party- ily… ha! Wait till Sarah reads it… that’ll be Guavas… I laughed and it was my fault much, much nicer experience! ing takes a toll! brilliant!” because I didn’t put the bags on the fruits. What do I do when I don’t think of par- My goal for here, for this time of life, is to Story & photo by See, I am from England and England is rots? I sleep! Ha! When Sarah de Groot, be a good husband and to make a difference Greta Kooistra known for their gardens and for people who mijn schatje (my baby) and I moved to this for Bonaire. I hope that people come to love gardening, so I know the satisfaction of kunuku about six months ago, we installed value what they have: an incredible nature. growing your own food and Sarah, my fian- the electric system and the water and I None of us will see an ancient forest like cée and I are eating out of our own garden. I quickly learned about plumbing. Then my what was here in the 1700s, but we can en- For more info: do understand when people get angry when mom came over and Sarah’s sister and they joy what we have and plant more and more. www.echobonaire.org it happens to them, but I also feel for the painted the house and Sarah’s dad came and Recently, Sarah and I established another

Page 4 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 1917, another car was Pictures used with the permission of Ria imported and this one Heitkönig . One of the sources is research on stayed on the island. the topic by Bòi Antoin A New Series The first tourists from the sister-island of Cura- Photo:Heit çao set foot on Bonairean soil in 1922 when boats brought 365 “excursion- ists,” as they were called, to the island. Among them was a soccer team that played against a team from Bonaire. It was not easy to lodge such a large group, but Bonaire man- Photo:Heit aged to find roofs and beds for them. Approaching Kralendijk from the sea While the number of “excursionists” grew in the 1920s and 30s, The first to discover the possibilities for construction took place to build a harbor tourism was Nicolaas Braantjes, Governor suitable to accommodate ships to bring in of the Curaçao Colony, who used to sail to Kralendijk. The historic Passangrahan is at the right. It is currently tourists. Until the mid-30s this was the Bonaire to spend weekends there. Some- undergoing massive renewal only way to do so. times he took a group of friends to the is- Until 1935, there was no airlift to Bon- land for sight-seeing. That was in 1927. In aire; in that year a piece of barren land (at 1929 Pension Hellmund, the oldest private In this edition we publish the first of a ago, that was the situation on the island. Subi Blanku off the Rincon Road) was guest-house, opened its doors, but the first series of articles on the history of Bonaire Bonaire has always been an island of cleared to facilitate the first airplane, the hotels were only built after WW II: Hotel Tourism. It’s written by Evert Bongers, tranquility, where its main resources in- legendary “Snip,” to land on Bonairean Zeebad, Hotel Rochaline and Hotel Bon- well known in Bonaire mostly for being the cluded fishing, a little agriculture on plan- soil. It would take until the 40s before aire.  Evert Bongers long time- MC and announcer at the Bon- tations (aloe and dye-wood) and one mod- regular flights from Curaçao were estab- aire Regatta. His involvement with this est export industry: salt. lished. The modern airport at its current Coming next issue… 1940: The Inva- event over the past 15+ years tickled his Connections to the outer world were location was opened in 1955. In the 50s, it sion of Involuntary “Tourists”… interest in the island and particularly its scarce. Boats from Curaçao or Venezuela was mainly the Royal Dutch Airlines KLM history. In Aruba where he lives he has called to bring fruit or other products, but that visited the Flamingo Airport. already published two books about that visitors never came to the island, with the A hundred years ago, there was no lodg- Evert Bongers lives island's history, one of which is about the exception of government officials or a few ing for visitors on the island; government in Aruba but knows history of tourism. occasional scientific researchers. Getting to officials on tour stayed at the government Bonaire well. He the island by boat from Curaçao took at guesthouse, called the Passangrahan, after studied at the univer- sity in Holland and PART 1-EARLIEST DAYS least a day and a half. similar lodging facilities in Indonesia, that since 2006 has been In the beginning of the 20th century there other Dutch colony. The Passangrahan a Vocational coun- magine the island of Bonaire without were no cars on the island. The first one served as an example for a few other hotels selor at Colegio I cars, without paved roads, an airport, brought in (1915) was sent back soon after- or guest houses that were established in Arubano. hotels, tourists or divers. About 100 years wards for lack of roads to drive on. In Bonaire, like the Pension Hellmund.

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nlike many young Dutch people, On July 2010, North Wind departed the U Shelley Burggraaff learned how to Dutch port of Naarden. It was a big send- sail far away from the water-centric Neth- off with family and friends attending. erlands. She had just finished school, and Even the local Search & Rescue boats got while visiting New Zeeland, was looking into the act by spraying water from hoses for a way to extend her trip down under. as the sloop departed the harbor. Shel- That is when Burggraaff read an ad from ley’s father joined her for the first few a sailor looking for someone to look after hours as a sendoff for his daughter. Once his boat in Fiji while he returned home she dropped him off in nearby Ijmuiden, for a month in the United States. she was alone. The young woman sailed to the UK, “At the marina I met many sailors on France, Spain, and finally the Canary voyage,” explains Shelley. “During that Islands where she began her 33-day trans time I realized that there were people Atlantic sail. About midway across, the actually traveling around the world on wind vane, which steers the boat when boats. I hadn’t a clue that that even hap- not helmed, broke and a large section pened.” sank into the sea. Undeterred, Shelley Soon Burggraaff met a Norwegian who attached an electronic auto pilot device to was looking for crew. “I told him I can the tiller, but that too failed after 300 hold a wheel and go the right way.” Ap- miles. Fortunately, her boyfriend who parently that was enough. The couple was also crossing the Atlantic made radio sailed Fiji, some French islands and New contact with Burggraaff and came to her Caledonia. But by then, the new Dutch rescue in blustery winds. He strapped his sailor was out of money and returned to autopilot to a raft and transferred the de- Holland. She got her university degree in vice to North Wind. “It was really good media and entertainment management that he was there,” says Shelley. “I spent and then began working for a sailing quite some time soldering (the auto pilot's events company.“I started doing that just electronic connections) in 30 knot winds, because I really liked the sailing so much. but I finally got the auto pilot hooked up I promised myself that I would return to and it lasted the next 1,000 miles.” Fiji with my own boat when I have all the North Wind made landfall on the lovely time in the world and the freedom to go to Grenadine island of Bequia in May 2011. any island that I want to.” Since then the sloop has cruised through- One year later Burggraaff bought North out the Caribbean, eventually landing in Wind, a Trintella 29 built in 1974. The Bonaire for Christmas 2012. “I love this prolific Dutch sailboat designer, E. G. place,” explains Shelley. “It’s so easy Van de Stadt, designed these sloops. going and laid-back. We call that gemoe- While not a race boat, the Trintella 29 is a delijk in Dutch. The island has a nice fast cruiser with a hull design speed of town center. The people are so friendly. about 7 knots. The boat was stoutly con- The saltpans are great. Up north is great. structed by the Tyler Boat Company in Even the donkeys are great.” Kent, England, back in the early days of Burggraaff now works for Dive Friends fiberglass production. Its deep, heavy at the Yellow Submarine shop on Kaya Two views of Shelly and North Wind sailing before the wind keel affords stability and good tracking Playa Lechi. She is unsure how long she when sailing into the wind. These are will stay on Bonaire and even less so characteristics that Shelley soon came to about sailing to her original destination of The scene was so wild, so rough with Burggraaff looks out at the Caribbean appreciate. Fiji. The voyage has been life-changing waves crashing on the coast. It was like blue and adds one more thought. “There For a year and a half, Burggraaff pre- for the young Dutch skipper. “The drive Jurassic Park, like it was a million years will be a lot of longing to go back to sea pared North Wind for her world cruise. to go to Fiji is less now. If you’re not ago. And there was me on my little boat.” and traveling and freedom. And I’ve ex- When people asked about her destination, really motivated that long journey is not Moments like that can be life changing perienced so much freedom on this voy- which was often, she simply replied “Fiji” desirable. I’m thinking maybe another and sailors throughout the ages have often age. I enjoy this life so much.”  as a way to satisfy their curiosity. The time on another boat and maybe sail with had difficulty returning to life on land. Patrick Ho- novice sailor knew this was the best time someone.” Shelley is now facing that personal di- lian for her to embark on a voyage before hus- When asked about her most amazing lemma. “I probably won’t fit back easily band and family came into her life, but moment on the water Burggraaff lists into Dutch society. On one hand, I don’t Patrick Ho- that decision was not without trepidation. three, but probably her most poignant want to be a wanderer who does this for lian is a free- “I decided I really had to do this now. I experience was off the coast of Saba, an- another 40 years getting by on a low lance writer was scared to go alone, of course. But I other Dutch Caribbean island. “I was budget. I don’t think I want to do that. and photogra- wanted it so much. It was the only way to sailing west of Saba and saw this big But I also don’t think I can have same job pher living in do it. If you really want something, you mountain rising out of the sea. Then a forever, and have the house and the fancy Bonaire get over the scary moments.” big leatherback turtle just popped up. car. I just don’t want to be that person.”

Page 6 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 This is the 15th of a series of Bonaire Reporter short articles by J@n Brouwer, about helmets and helmet awareness.

mber Packard from Maine and lock. Colors are a tasteful combination of A Maddi Roth from Vermont. Both sea blue and silver. CIEE has a collection students at the CIEE. They will stay here of fine bikes to supply their students with a until the beginning of May. Both sporty cheap and effective way of transport. young girls are more than pleased to pose Amber: “We can borrow these bikes for the camera in front of the CIEE bill- from the organization. They are all similar board. Amber is already the user of a pro- and parts are not a single problem. Every tective helmet and Maddi will very soon bike has its own number and I know ex- be. actly which bike “belongs” to me and to Bonaire/Playa Lechi – On Sunday, which bike my keys fit. We are responsible February 10, two sporty youngsters, Maddi for our bikes so we always lock them. We Roth and Amber Packard, joined the Fish- have to repair our own flat tires or have ing Line Clean up dive around the Town them repaired. We use the bikes for every J@n Brouwer photo Pier, organized by the Fishing Line Project day transport. Traffic is completely differ- Division of the Sea Turtle Conservation ent here, compared to what we are used to Bonaire and sponsored by Dive Friends in the States. Every now and then it gets a Bonaire. little frightening and dangerous when the Amber Packard is from Maine, Maddi traffic is busy and the roads become nar- Roth is from Vermont. They are both row and smaller.” Maddi: “We really like it studying marine biology and they are now on this lovely little tropical island. People studying and practicing at the CIEE are friendly and the climate is perfect. The (Council on International Educational sea is relatively clean and full of treasures Exchange) Bonaire Station. The CIEE is a and we would like to keep it that way. non-profit organization with all kinds of That’s why Amber and I joined the clean Amber Packard from Maine (left) and Maddi Roth studies in some 36 countries all over the up dive. Bonaire has wonderful resources, world. and we want to help keep the environment are in for protecting the sea, the mother of Maddi has to wait some more days until Amber and Maddi arrived at the Dive pristine. When fishing line gets caught and all. They are surprised by the fact the CIEE Saturday February 16. Inn location on their light but solid Dutch breaks off, animals (especially sea turtles) doe supply bicycles but does not have any Then the helmet force Sparta bikes. Bicycles made of the best can get trapped in knots of floating and helmets. Now it is time for the helmet will be able to supply material like an aluminum frame, alumi- semi floating fishing line. This is really force to get in action. another helmet. Be care- num wheels and front suspension. The dangerous to turtles because they can suf- A nice grey American made Bell ful ladies, and enjoy life! multi-speed two wheelers are equipped focate if they can't reach the surface…” mountain bike helmet is given to Amber.  Story & Photo with a dynamo and front and rear lights, a The girls really are optimistic, healthy, She reacts enthusiastically and spontane- by J@n Brouwer clean and safe closed chain guard, a lock sporty, vivid and good looking young la- ously: “Thank you! I have exactly the same connected to the frame and a separate cable dies. A complete life ahead of them. They helmet at home in Maine!” Unfortunately

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Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 7

Lighthouses of Bonaire (5) Fort Some Hard Evidence Appears Oranje, Kralendijk – continued... At the beginning of the 20th century people started taking photographs. That’s This is the last of the Lighthouses of a big help to see the changes in layout and Bonaire articles in The Reporter by au- construction of the fort because there is thor-photographer Wilna Groenen- little put down on paper and often these boom. But this one presented several papers are very well hidden. mysteries to be solved. When was the But if we look at the first photo made by lighthouse actually built? Was it in that the Fraters of Tilburg around 1922 (Fort same location? Oranje, The Reporter, Feb. 8), we can clearly see, from the sea, a stone light- n the years following 1796 Bonaire house with a wooden balcony on top like I had different owners. The English we see today. So I think that the founda- occupied Bonaire again in 1807. When tion of the stone lighthouse was definitely Fort Oranje in 1964 they left in 1816 due to the Vienna Con- before 1932, and most likely between vention of 1816 they left their canons 1868 and 1932! In that same photo on the behind, one from 1808, two from 1811 north and western (sea) side there’s a and one from 1812. three-to- four- meter high wall, with the The other Dutch Caribbean islands got a four English canons on top to protect the garrison after 1816, but not Bonaire which fort. At that time you had to enter the fort had only a handful of fort guards who did on the north side through a little door then maintenance work and fired off salutes a wider gate topped with a little tympa- when necessary. num (semi-circular or triangular decora- When Bonaire returned to Dutch author- tive wall surface). The fort consisted of ity after English rule due to the Paris three buildings, clearly visible both inside Treaty of August 13th, Commander of the and outside the walls, with a plastered Naval Forces, Albert Kikkert, formed a stone store and/or warehouse. On the wide commission that would take care of Aruba stone wall now and then we spot a square and Bonaire and produced the Underwrit- shaped stone lighthouse divided into three ing Report of 1816. Two reports were floors or layers: the first has a wooden produced that were and are of great value roof with roof tiles, decorated with a because they gave a good view about the beautiful wooden edging in front. The situation between 1814-1816. They in- second and third floors are separated by a clude information like: population (males/ white horizontal line. Each floor had four females/ages/occupation), healthcare, simple windows, one on each side that housing, the size of the island, its condi- could be closed with wooden shutters. On tion, harvest, farming, trading, etc. Before top was a stone platform with a wooden these two reports there was not much in- balcony around it. On the right of the fort formation about this kind of thing on Bon- there’s a public toilet (gemakshuisje). aire. Due to these reports we now know a And on the far right is the “yellow house” little more about the situation on Bonaire on the corner of the street and boulevard, and Fort Oranje during that time. a house which is now gone! According to the report, in 1816 the If we look at the lower photo (right) also governor was living in the fort, but it was taken by the Fraters of Tilburg some years a very basic straw covered house with later we can see that a new building has Fort Orange in the early 20th century probably a magazine and a guard’s house. been erected, now used as the Gemeen- The governor moved from this house in schappelijk Hof van Jusitie (Court of Jus- 1837/1838 after a brand new stone gover- tice). nor’s house was built next to the fort. In In the past the fort was also used as building by a narrow wall forms the out- a fort, there no longer needs to be a dry the following years the fort served differ- sealed storage place for goods going in side wall of Fort Oranje. For the rest little and “sun free” place to stand guard. And ent (public) functions. In 1868 it served as and out of Bonaire. With a growing popu- has changed. Even the lighthouse is still wood does need constant maintenance. a lighthouse, at first a wooden one. But lation you have more business, more the same. But would it not be great to have a rain it’s written, “They changed from wood to goods, so you need more storage and of If we look at the top photo taken by Dhr and sunless place to sit today, under the stone in 1932!” But is that really so? course you get more tax revenues! The B. (Boy) Lawson in 1964, we can see on porch, to enjoy the view from this ele- corner of the “barn” connected to this new the north side (left of the building) the vated historical part of Bonaire? higher wall with gate and door is still The lighthouse is changed, if I may say there. The shutters in the lighthouse are so, into a somewhat tasteless “concrete open. And beside the lighthouse we see a like” tower. It has lost its relaxed, new building, the office for the harbor friendly, somewhat romantic feel and master, built in the same style as the rest above all its own style, an 'easy going' of the buildings. style that was fitting on an island like And then in the last photo (Fort Oranje, Bonaire. Wilna Groenenboom The Reporter, Feb. 8), probably taken in the 70s, a lot has changed when we com- Sources: pare the present situation with the first Dr Joh. Hartog, ‘Van Indianen tot toer- half of the 20th century. The north wall isten;’ Forten van de Nederlandse Antil- with gate and door has been demolished len – Curacao Maritieme Museum; and the fort has been enlarged a few me- Forten van de Nederlandse Antillen en ters outward. The lighthouse’s beautiful Aruba Deel 2: Aruba, Bonaire, St porch and the wooden balcony are com- Maarten, St Eustatius, Saba;***) Dr Joh. pletely gone. The lighthouse was given an Hartog, ‘Het Oude Fort van Aruba: de extra floor, a stone extension, with a bell geschiedenis van het Fort zoutman en de which we can see hanging through the toren.... ’ Uitgeverij Van Gorcum 1995; arched windows. It is quite clear this was- Dr. Jay Haviser. n’t done in the same “style!” Photo credit: Bottom-Fraters of Tilburg; ; I can imagine that losing its function as top -Dhr B. (Boy) Lawson in 1964

Page 8 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 In Motion photos

Marieke Nowicki above and right

itness expert Marieke Nowicki damage to F recently opened her new business, the brain, reproductive system and other In Motion Living. The company is organs. “expert in Holistic Nutrition, Lifestyle The Green Beaver products are avail- Coaching and Personal training” and was able at Van Der Tweel supermarket or at named exclusive distributors for Living InMotion. The orange and apple fluoride- Fuel Superfoods and Certified Organic free organic toothpastes are great for Body care products from Green Beaver. kids. They have shampoos, conditioners, Mysterious Gourmet photos body wash, body lotion, deodorants, sun- Marieke says, “I recently started our screen lotion, facial products like green BOBBEJANS delicious BBQ available on the island. company promoting an active and tea moisturizer, grapefruit cleanser and Owners Rob de Haseth and wife Maggie healthy lifestyle. I was inspired by Reza grapefruit scrub - favorites of mine! We Niam, holistic health practitioner from also have kids’ products and (deet free) ossibly, are responsible for the food preparation. Canada and founder of the company insect repellent available at InMotion and in view The restaurant, small but powerful, is P Purescapes. He made me realize how can be ordered by email or phone, and I of the selec- located on a side street (2 Kaya Albert little we know about what taking good will even deliver them in person. For tion of restau- Engelhart) in downtown Kralendijk, care of our body means. more info take a look at the web- rants the sports a bar and some indoor seating and I learned about how much damage a lot sitewww.inmotionliving.com.” Mystery offers cold beverages, BBQ ribs, of products that we take for granted can Gourmet and chicken, satay, slaw, gado gado do to our health. All the chemicals we, his mysteri- (vegetables with peanut sauce), combina- especially women put on our faces and ous spouse tion salad and French fries.. The BBQ bodies each day. And the lack of suffi- tend to re- and peanut sauces are unequaled on the cient nutrients in our daily food, and eve- view, The island, the portions are generous, the rything they add to our foods make it Reporter's service prompt. The Gourmet and wife even worse. The rising number of diabe- readers may usually order ribs, chicken satay, French tes, cancer, allergies and other health conclude that fries and salad. problems are the results. the creepy couple does not take broad Days and hours of service are limited, Learning about this radically changed advantage of the other various sources of the restaurant being open on Fridays, my lifestyle, even though I thought I was Living Fuel Products food available on Bonaire. Nothing could Saturdays and Sundays, so if one is not healthy and doing healthy stuff. I grew be farther from the truth in that they en- well acquainted with the limits, a call up in a small community in Holland in a The products from Living Fuel are one joy meals from smaller operations, espe- ahead is advised. 717-4783 family that taught me to stay close to the world’s best super food products. cially those which offer excellent take- The Mystery Gourmet and spouse regu- what nature has to offer, but there were Marieke’s advice is that everyone -adults away food. larly choose takeaway from Bobbejan's still a lot of habits to release. Some and children- use them as part of their Bobbejan's is one of those restaurants and highly recommend their excellent things were shocking to discover, some daily routine. Most of the foods in the they frequently visit. A Mom and Pop fare.  Story and photos by The Mysteri- made sense, but most off all, I realized I supermarket these days are processed, operation, it serves some of the most ous Gourmet and Spouse want the best for my children. genetically modified, or sprayed with so I have to set the example, and teach many herbicides and pesticides that they them about this. And why not teach oth- don’t provide you with the nutrients you ers and help them to change their life- need. Our meats (unless organic, grass style towards a balanced and healthy way fed) are full of antibiotics and growth of living. As I have always been active hormones because that’s what they feed myself, and interested in life and health, the animals. It all ends up in our bodies. the step towards doing something with Even (multi) vitamin supplements don’t that seems to make sense.” do enough. The products from Living Fuel replace supplements and do more, The Green can be used to replace a meal, they give ongratulations to Jan, Beaver body you energy, can help lose weight, are C Jeannie and Steve care products perfect for vegetarians as most of the Jannen who have been regu- are Certified products contain protein. It can be used lar visitors to Bonaire for a Organic. I for sports, by children, even infants. The combined 95 years, a family have been us- products are gluten free and some are travelling record. Jan and ing them my- hypo allergenic. You can use them in Jeannie were named Bonaire self and for my smoothies or just mixed with water. Liv- Ambassadors for 35 years of children, won- ing Fuel provides you with all the build- visits and their son, Steve derful products! For me the choice be- ing blocks your body needs. They have for 25 years. They were tween chemicals and no chemicals is an delicious energy bars with Coconut, Ca- presented their Ambassador easy one. The products are being sold in cao and Chia seeds in it, omega 3 supple- medals and certificates by 6000 health stores (like Whole Foods) all ments. “I have been using it myself for Helen Thode coordinator of over the US, Canada, Hong Kong and half a year now, and I feel great,” says the Ambassador program. now also in the Caribbean. People don’t Marieke. Living Fuel is available at Bon- They are pictured having a realize that our skin is our biggest organ, Fysio/BonBida Spa and at InMotion sunset dinner at Harbour and everything you put on it ends up in www.inmotionliving.com.  Village’s La Balandra res- your body. The chemicals in ‘normal’ Press release/ G.D. taurant.  G.D. body care products can do a lot of harm; Bob Tseng photo they have been linked to cancer, cause

Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 9

Kristel and mark

on the birth of their beautiful daughter:

Bregje Anneke

Some 19 volunteers joined the clean up It takes experienced divers to do the job as dive on Sunday February 10. A huge most of the work is done in a more or less bucket overflowing with nylon line, lead upside down diving position and there is and hooks was the result of the one hour always the problem of changing weight to recovery dive. deal with as the bag, filled with lines, hooks and lead, becomes heavier and heavier. It is Bonaire/Kralendijk – also difficult because the divers have to n Sunday, February 10, a bunch of decide every time whether they have to O 19 line fishers met each other at the remove the line or leave the line on the Dive Inn, a location of Dive Friends Bon- coral since it appears to be partly over- aire. This day’s goal was fishing for some grown. In fact the removal of fishing line is line under the Town Pier. During the brief- a very delicate procedure. The job has to be ing, held by Richard, a dive instructor of done since turtles can get tangled in the Dive Friends Bonaire, it appeared that there lines, and as turtles have lungs they have to had to be a last minute change of plans. A reach the surface of the water every now huge cargo vessel wanted to dock at Bon- and then. It is a horrible thing to discover a aire and the two tug boats were almost turtle that has passed away and started dis- ready for take off which resulted in the integrating because of being snared by a Town Pier being a no go area for divers nylon line. Drowned because of a lack of air because of the dangerous effects produced and oxygen. by the huge propellers of the two tug boats. After the one-hour dive STCB supplied So an alternative location was found at the light refreshments for the divers at the Dive South Pier. Inn location. The result of the dive was a The underwater world around and beneath huge bucket, overfilled with useless line. the South Pier had been the target of the Thank you, Dive Friends Bonaire for spon- volunteers of the Fishing Line Project be- soring this project at the location and free fore but there was still a load of fishing line, air for the divers. Thank you, volunteers, for hooks and lead to recover. All line fishers your time and energy. Thank you STCB, on were prepared and air tanks were full. Then, behalf of the turtles! after various contacts with the harbor offi- The Fishing Line Project is being run by cials, the sea around the Town Pier was free STCB in partnership with the Dutch Carib- for diving again as the two tug boats had bean Nature Alliance and is working to- left. So all 19 volunteers plunged in after wards freeing our coral reefs from fishing being heated up waiting and wearing their debris which can entrap our endangered sea heavy diving gear. turtles. The next clean up dive is on Sunday It takes most divers about one hour to do March 10. Please write this in your diary. their underwater job. One hour is the limit For more information about the Fishing and deep dives are not allowed since this Line Project clean up dives and the Turtle line recovery dive is a no-decompression Conservation Bonaire you can surf to dive. STCB, the organizers of the Fishing [email protected]  Line Project and, last but not least, the Story & photo by Jan Brouwer bunch of experienced divers do not want to take any risk at any time.

AUTOCITY B.V. Kaya Finlandia 9 E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 717-7800 Fax:717-5254 Page 10 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 is that the extension lapses as soon as the ple to stay on Bonaire for an extended period There are some solutions at hand if the visitor leaves, so the whole process must be of time. government will cooperate with the private repeated every year. I can be reached at sector. I have heard rumblings about some There are additional expenses too – air- [email protected] folks were “busy” with a plan but the old lines will sell only return tickets for less than Bob Bartikoski “we are busy with it” won’t put LP in my three months without presentation of a RE/MAX Paradise Homes tank to heat my porridge! Competition longer visa. Since the application for exten- breeds excellence so let’s grab the proverbial sion must be made in Bonaire, the visitor bulls by the horns and get moving! must change his return flights, incurring In an addendum to the first letter Mr. Phase 1 is to import two Bob Tail 3000- extra fees. MacDonald wrote: gallon LP delivery trucks. The used market While the immigration rules do provide . We'd be happy to pay an annual surcharge is around $15,000 each. They can be filled property ownership as one basis for request- on our vastgoedbelasting (non-resident and in Curacao or Aruba. Each truck can fill 125, Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not ing an extension of visit, it appears that the business property tax) equal to the charge 100 lb or 550, 20 lb cylinders. The trucks necessarily those of The Reporter basic limitations still apply. It is hard to jus- RCN Immigration now makes for handling can be stationed at a central location or even tify owning property that is not conveniently the extension applications for overwinterers make home deliveries. TWO LETTERS DISCUSSING THE available to you for more than three months provided that: Phase 2 is the long term solution. Con- "OVERWINTERING" PROBLEM per year. Some people have informed me of 1. The money went to alleviating poverty struct an LP filling station where a much their intention to sell and leave because of rather than bureaucratic paper shuffling. larger storage tank can be located and then this inconvenience, and no doubt others have 2. Property holders electing to pay the sur- continue using our antiquated system of already done so. charge could come and go for a total of six dragging the bottles back and forth, but at It should be possible to grant foreigners months, like Netherlands citizens, without least they can be filled on island. In the case who own second homes on Bonaire a perma- further paper handling. Easily done by a of the restaurants they will be able to have nent visa that would allow them to stay for stamp in the passport and a list at the immi- large capacity tanks that can be serviced by up to six months without having to re-apply gration desk at the airport. the delivery trucks. every year. For people who own property, Phase 3. Raise our collective voices and six month visit limits are common between stop being held hostage by an inefficient many countries. The “overwinterer” rules in system. The money saved alone in handling Bonaire are chasing income and economic Correction: BHM NOT BHG should be more than enough to make up for activity away from the island. Bonaire the cost of the trucks for Phase 1 of the pro- RCN should urgently reconsider these rules before Dear Editor,: ject. Once the business shows a positive cash more damage is done. I would like to call your attention to an flow, the permanent location can be con- We would like to hear from any error in the article welcoming the new Di- structed. In the interim, development funds “overwinterers” with similar concerns. If rector of TCB. You refer to BHG as a gov- can be sought through the European Union, there are enough people who share this is- ernment body. Actually, BHG is the ersatz World Bank, UN, and if the BES Islands can sue, perhaps our voices can be heard. hotel group that pretends to represent the manage to achieve observer status in CARI- I can be reached at [email protected] HORECA sector under the name Bonaire COM, there are numerous funding opportu- FROM AN “OVERWINTERER” Ian MacDonald Hospitality Group. What you meant was nities for Caribbean countries. Dear Editor: BHM, the Bonaire Holding Maatschappij Michael Gaynor Bonaire is fortunate to attract many long- n.v. It is the holding company that has over- term visitors who are neither tourists nor FROM A REALTOR sight for TCB, TELBO WEB and SELI- workers, nor passing officials - people who BON. In order not to mislead or give any THE ONLY WAY TO FLY (TO CURACAO) come to Bonaire for periods of months to Dear Editor: official government recognition to BHG, enjoy the climate and the quiet, and who As a full time resident and small business please publish this correction. Dear Editor: greatly appreciate the island and its culture. owner, my concerns mirror those of Ian, and Michael Gaynor Divi Divi Airlines– or as we call it, Bai In the parlance of the RCN they are de- other Bonaire visitors who I know. I own a Bini Airlines - has been operating between scribed as “overwinterers.” business on Bonaire and my income and Sorry for the mistake. We did get it Bonaire and Curaçao since 2001. And I can- Many “overwinterers” own houses or livelihoods depend on Bonaire’s full time right in the issue previous to that one. Ed. not say that it has ever been late. Always on apartments on the island. They have brought residents, along with our tourists, part time time airline is how we call it. large amounts of capital to Bonaire to make residents and even sailing cruisers. The ground crew in Bonaire is like fam- these purchases, and they also provide a Since 10-10-10 the island seems to be HOW TO BORROW MONEY INTEREST ily, they have a chat with you, ask you how significant and ongoing economic benefit to actively making it more difficult for “long FREE ON BONAIRE FOR SIX MONTHS your mom and dad are doing. They always the island. As owners of second houses they term tourists” and part time visitors to stay try to accommodate us, especially in times pay a high rate of property tax. They provide on Bonaire for more than 90 days in a calen- Dear Editor: of need, when we are compelled to be in work to plumbers, painters, carpenters, dar year. Many of those visitors own real It’s so simple; I am ashamed of myself Curaçao at a certain date. cleaning services, marinas and so on. They estate here, and when they visit the island for being sucked into CUROIL’S scheme to I can carry my bag to the plane, and they eat in the restaurants and patronize the local one of the things they do is spend money, use my hard earned cash for up to six lift it in. And when I get to Curaçao, they lift retailers. They buy groceries and gasoline something which Bonaire sorely needs. months without paying me interest! All one it out. I can’t imagine having to stand at the and insurance for their cars and houses. All Why are the current immigration rules need do is to sell a product, say 100 pound luggage conveyor waiting for my suitcase… this money is income to the Bonaire econ- making it so difficult for people who like to cylinders of LP Gas. The rip off begins Long before the tax had been included in omy from off the island. It would be very visit Bonaire for more than three months and when the supplier demands payment in ad- most tickets Divi was already doing this, I interesting to know how much overwinterers up to six months in any calendar year? The vance for some unknown future delivery did not have to stand in line to pay my tax in contribute to Bonaire’s economy in compari- RCN and Immigration Departments should date. Presently it is running right around six Bonaire. Where in the world can you fly son to the amounts spent by tourists, cruise be able to simplify our immigration rules months! within half an hour and only pay $110 round ship passengers and “full-time” residents. and allow people to stay on Bonaire up to A little bit of a history lesson here will trip, and this only now since they upped the Unfortunately, there don’t seem to be any six months per calendar year WITHOUT a help to gain some insight. First of all, appar- departure tax in Curaçao recently! publicly available figures. They likely make visa as long as they are law abiding and not ently there is a lot of money due the refinery Check in 45 minutes before the flight a very significant impact. using any public services that are reserved in Curacao owed by CUROIL. What better takes off and I can count on being in Cura- As Bonaire settles into its new arrange- for residents? way to satisfy your creditors than to borrow çao within half an hour. ments with The Netherlands it appears that Alternatively, the immigration rules can be money interest-free for six months. Just Weeks ago one pilot gave us a tour all the immigration rules applied to these long changed to provide property owners with think about the cash flow as folks run out of along the west side of Curaçao. Spectacular term visitors are not serving the needs of some sort of investor visa which allows gas daily and have to cough up the cash be- weather made the trip very pleasant. Bonaire very well. People who have made them to stay on Bonaire up to six months per fore they will complete the delivery order. On the way back I was fortunate to have the financial and personal commitment to year AT THEIR discretion, as long as they By paying far ahead, CUROIL’s debt is the same pilot who suggested we buckle up the island required to buy property desire the own real estate? Property owners should not reduced and does not look so bad on the quick, as he knew there were feeding whales freedom to enjoy that property in a reason- have to reapply every year for permission to aging to the bookkeeper and the accounting between Bonaire and Curaçao. He flew until able way and at their convenience. stay an extra 90 days. dept. Can we all say Ponzi scheme! he spotted them, circled a couple of times, At present “overwinterers” not from the Like Ian, I would like to hear from any The next issue is why do private homes and made this trip even more special! Netherlands may stay in Bonaire for three property owners or visitors with similar con- have to wait six months but eateries have The pilots will duck for clouds, to avoid months, and may extend this to a maximum cerns. If the 90 day limit is making it more pretty much delivery on demand? Maybe it an uncomfortable bumpy ride, and go six month visit in any year, according to the difficult for you to stay on Bonaire as long has something to do with the amount you around a rain storm. Fly Divi Divi Airlines, RCN website. The cost of the extension is as you would like, I’d like to hear from you. pay. There is a commercial rate and a resi- you’ll never fly with another airline to Cura- several hundred dollars, and it is necessary If there are enough of us, I will bring this to dential rate. Of course you already probably çao again! to have documentation of good behaviour, the Immigration Office of the RCN, and figured out that the restaurants pay top dollar Thank you, Divi Divi crew, for making bank statements, and a number of other perhaps we can change the current rules. so it stands to reason that CUROIL will bend traveling a pleasant event! documents that must be assembled in the Bonaire needs all of the visitors we can over backwards to accommodate them. The Christie Dovale home country, not without difficulty, and get, and we should roll out the “welcome poor homeowner will just have to settle for subject to a short expiry date. The problem mat” and make it easier, not harder for peo- cold kabritu stoba and rubbery funchi!

Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 11 Spectacular Siomara Girlfriends

Bodies Beautiful

To Pull a Float or The Awesome Ilonka Paul and Amina -always stars Float a Boat-Blonk Boat

Lots of

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Page 12 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Prancing Paso Fino Horses Perfect Lines of Fun

Dennis– Makamba Style Nolly God and Goddess Over 100,000 You Tube views at press time

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Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 13 New Column! Bar-end mirror This is a new column writ- appears to be a ten by J@n Brouwer about useful gadget useful gadgets for sale on Bonaire. This is the first article in a row of 100.

Bonaire/Kralendijk – ust recently De Free- J wieler bike shop in Playa received some very useful gadgets for your bicy- cle, moped, motorcycle, baby stroller or wheelchair. One of them is the so called Third Eye Mirror, produced by Third Eye Products, California. Third shims, a bolt and a square nut. Just insert Eye Mirror is a registered trademark of the mirror and turn it clockwise to tighten Bicycle Safety Incorporation USA. it. A nice and very useful device. No The cute, little, handy Third Eye Bar trembling, a clear view, a pleasure to use! End Mirror attaches to the end of the This mirror was developed by Malcolm handle bar of your vehicle. It has a three- Brown after a friend of his died from inch convex mirror made of real glass. It being hit by a car. All products of Third won’t scratch or get dull with age. It will Eye Products are assembled and shipped not vibrate loose. It does not interfere at a so called sheltered workshop where with your hands or arms. The convex handicapped people can work in a struc- e went there.. and it was really tough! Three days walking in the Co- mirror solves the problem of an angle of tured environment. The bar end mirror is “W lumbian wilderness across steep muddy tracks, crossing wild water view but ends up with a smaller image. for sale for a humble $15.35 at De Free- streams sleeping in hammocks, carrying our stuff on our back! At least now you can see who or what is wieler’s, the blue building along the We even found a cocaine factory in the jungle, we got lost but we found our way behind you. Kaya Grandi in Playa. Visit for more again- an adventure it was! It is very easy to install the bar end information: www.thirdeyemirrors.com At the end we found the ruins of an ancient city, lost and forgotten. There it was, mirror. Just remove the tape plug or cut a and www.bonairefreewieler.com and where we had to picture ourselves with The Reporter before we went back the same hole in the end of the hand grip. Apart read more about useful gadgets.  J@n way ... from a knife no special tools are needed Brouwer It was definitely worth the journey .. every step! as the mirror comes with a variety of In the picture are Astrid van Tent and her colleague, Joost van Gaalen. Astrid lived on Bonaire several years ago but has moved to Curacao, but Joost is still liv- ing and enjoying Bonaire till this very moment!”

onaire resident JP B Richau brought a copy of The Reporter with him ast year the van Erp family spent To help catch up with when he attended the Arirang L the backlog of Picture mass Games in Pyongyang, about seven weeks RV- ing through beautiful Yourself entries we are North Korea’s May Day Sta- publishing two submis- dium, got his photo taken, California. Their last sions per edition submitted it and won the stop was San Diego and grand prize in The Reporter’s based on a recommen- Picture Yourself with The dation visited the Bal- Reporter contest-a large Pasa boa Park. Beautiful, Bon Pizza. educational and impres- He received it last week sive! Gerard van Erp from Reporter Editor Laura writes, “ And of course DeSalvo. Congratulations, we took The Bonaire JP.  Reporter with us. This is daughter Laura read- Winning Photo ing The Reporter. In the background the San Diego museum of man, one of the most well known buildings of San Diego. The current exhi- bition was instruments of torture...with interest- ing tools from Italy and...of course Ger- many....”

WIN GREAT PRIZES! Take a copy of MOST EXOTIC WE NEED PHOTOS! The Bonaire Reporter with you on your next DESTINATION and trip or when you return to your home. Then OVERALL WINNER JP For Picture take a photo of yourself with the newspa- Richau at the May Day Sta- per in hand. THE BEST PHOTOS OF THE YEAR WILL WIN THE PRIZES. dium, Pyongyang, Yourself in the Mail photos to Bonaire Reporter, Box 407, North Korea Bonaire Reporter Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean. E-mail to: Oct. 12, 2012 edition pg. 17 JP Richau [email protected]

Page 14 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 and so on….

Why are you participating? At first people around me were encouraging me to join the Voice of etting fit and losing Bonaire. But I didn’t have my Sed- G extra weight is ula yet (You know how long that good for your health. can take here on Bonaire). Just in One of the most effective time I received my Sedula and I ways to do that is to be- filled in the online form. I thought, come a member of Bon well, WHY NOT? Then I heard that Bida Spa. You’ll receive the winner gets a free trip to Hol- a free T-shirt (“Too Fit n the 16th of February the land to participate the Voice Of To Quit”), discounts on O Voice of Bonaire re-started Holland! It would be great having clothes/shoes and..... a at Caribbean Chillout. Anyone on that opportunity and also to visit my free TGS key! This can Bonaire with a Sedula (Bonaire ID family and friends whom I miss be used for the advanced Card) could participate in this com- very much! So now I really want to TechnoGym equipment petition. There were a LOT of tal- Michelle Schuijling -“Missyelle”. win this! And that will be hard, and contains your per- ented people!. because I’ve heard that there’s go- Body Pump Instructors sonalized program. This Inge, Mireille and Juanita way you KNOW you are We talked with Michelle Schui- sing background. That was less ing to lots of good talent, including training the right way! jling, one of the participants who scary for me because I was not many names already well known on Their trainers will design we were told has a lovely voice. We really in the spotlight. That’s how it the island. I will try to do my your program(s) after an checked out some videos of her on started. Then, one and a half years best,and give it all I have. later the same bass player wanted to intake. YouTube and were very impressed. Check them out yourself on You start a new rockabilly band. I de- When and where will we see cided to take that opportunity (even you on stage? Bon Bida began a new Tube; search for “Missyelle.” Les Mills series of though I didn’t know anything The Voice of Bonaire Event is at Michelle, when did you start about that genre), and I liked it very the Caribbean Chill Out. You will classes last week that singing? much. see me singing in my first round on will improve your I have been singing my whole Coming to Bonaire last October Saturday, the 23rd of February. strength (Body Pump), life, but I was always afraid to sing has opened so many more opportu- overall fitness (Body for people, except during my col- nities. I was always complaining What will you sing? Balance) and aerobic lege time with my friends on a Fri- that I wanted to sing covers, and Hopefully “de sterren van de he- health (RPM-Spinning). day karaoke night with a drink. Ha, now, here I am, drowning in cover mel!” No, that’s not the name of a Your body will feel real ha! songs. Jeroen was the first person Dutch song. It’s a Dutch expression positive results in a short One friend of mine was a bass who dragged me onto the stage - a loose translation might be to time. Classes are held at player and asked me to join his convenient times during (thanks to my mum), and now I’ve sing like a heavenly angel. Ha, ha! A spin biking class is a great band, but I never dared to. But three the day and evening. See had performances at Jibe City, City G.D./Press release way to burn 500 calories years later, he asked me again to Café, Spice Beach, Plaza Casino, ad on page 12.  G.D.

At the Plaza Resort Bonaire

Coral Casino Bonaire invites you to a free taxi journey to the Casino where you can have fun and play: On The Owned -Black Jack and Waterfront at -Roulette The Harbour operated -The only Three Card + Caribbean Stud on the island by a Village Marina -100 slot machines to choose from French — Zazu Bar at the Harbour Village Ma- Become a member of our VIP players club and be eligible for give- Master rina Air-conditioning aways, prizes, raffles and more… Chef Open:: Mon-Fri 3-10 pm, Sat: 5-10 pm and al fresco dining For a free cab ride to the Casino call 782-1669 Bar menu available Check the list below for your area. Reservations: Tel: 717-7070 Tel: 717-7070 email: [email protected] email: [email protected] For a group of 2+ Flamingo Beach For a group of 4+ Caribbean Court Bonaire Caribbean Club

Kralendijk Sorobon Beach Resort Belnem Rode Pan /Witte pan Tera Cora Tras di Montana Den Tera Punto Blanco Cargill Salt ? For a group of 3+ pace Harbour Village Marina For a group of 5+ t of S Ou Beach Resort Karpata Den Laman Rincon Sand Dollar Buddy Dive For a group of 6+ Nikiboko Playa Grandi Nort di Salinja Amboina For a group of 7+ Republiek BoPec Mexico (north + south) Captain Don’s Habitat Choose your size from 5’x5’ to 10’x20’. Antriol Prices from $29 to $147 per month. Call 700-1753

Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 15 Bonaire Reporter Classifieds— Really Work! Bonaire-Sun Rise/Set, Moon Phase and Tides Got something to buy or sell?

Non-Business Classified Ads (up to 4 lines/ 20± words are still FREE Day High Low High Low High Sunrise Sunset

Commercial Ads only $0. 77 per word, for each two-week issue. Call 786-6518 or 786-6125 or email [email protected] 03:03 10:04 18:43 23:12 Fri 22 0.03 ft 0.76 ft −0.05 ft 0.14 ft 6:54 18:44 For Quality House MISCELLANEOUS 03:40 10:44 19:22 and Office Cleaning Sat 23 0.06 ft 0.71 ft −0.03 ft 6:53 18:44 and Maintenance .. Private CALL JRA Sightseeing 00:08 04:33 11:27 19:57 Serving Bonaire for more Flights. Discover Sun 24 0.16 ft 0.10 ft 0.64 ft −0.01 ft 6:53 18:44 than 15 years Bonaire from the air. 01:04 05:53 12:17 20:26 Full Honest, Reliable, Efficient, Thorough, Up to 3 passengers. Mon 25 0.22 ft 0.14 ft 0.56 ft 0.01 ft Moon 6:53 18:44 Low rates, References. One time or many. Also photo and special flights. 7 days a week. Information: 786-7720 01:53 07:34 13:15 20:53 Phone 785-9041 … and relax. Tue 26 0.30 ft 0.15 ft 0.47 ft 0.02 ft 6:52 18:44 ———————————— ——————————————- LUNCH TO GO 02:37 09:17 14:21 21:20 Attention ART-lovers: For Sale by art- Wed 27 0.40 ft 0.12 ft 0.39 ft 0.02 ft 6:52 18:44 Starting from $4 per meal. collector, various paintings of famous Hai- Call CHINA NOBO 717-8981. tian Masters. Viewings by appointment. 03:20 10:41 15:28 21:50 Web site: Call: 795 - 0555 or 786 – 3358 Thu 28 0.52 ft 0.05 ft 0.32 ft 0.01 ft 6:51 18:44 www.chinanobobonaire.com ——————————————— 04:02 11:49 16:30 22:26 We collect clothing or house-hold Fri 01 0.64 ft −0.03 ft 0.27 ft −0.01 ft 6:51 18:45 goods in good condition to give away for those in need. Call Dia di Gracia Tel. 796- 04:46 12:45 17:26 23:06 1919 or 560-7412 Sat 02 0.76 ft −0.11 ft 0.24 ft −0.04 ft 6:50 18:45 ——————————————— 05:31 13:36 18:18 23:51 For Sale- Potter's Kick Wheel $50 Sun 03 0.86 ft −0.18 ft 0.22 ft −0.07 ft 6:49 18:45 Tel 717-3566 06:18 14:24 19:08 L Quar- ———————————————- Mon 04 0.94 ft −0.22 ft 0.22 ft ter 6:49 18:45 8 ft billiard pool table with 3-piece slate, blue color felt, leather pockets, very good condition, comes with ping-pong top 00:39 07:05 15:11 19:57 and accessories. $2000 or best offer. Buyer Tue 05 −0.09 ft 0.98 ft −0.24 ft 0.23 ft 6:48 18:45 must disassemble and move. 796-7141 or 01:30 07:54 15:58 20:48 787-0890 Wed 06 −0.10 ft 0.98 ft −0.24 ft 0.25 ft 6:48 18:45 Tel (599) 791-6272 / 785-6272 ———————————————— [email protected] CUT YOUR RENT IN HALF. Need a 02:24 08:44 16:44 21:41 www.outdoorbonaire.com Thu 07 −0.09 ft 0.94 ft −0.22 ft 0.28 ft 6:47 18:45 roommate? Lady, 51 seeking a place to live on Bonaire and to share costs. 03:23 09:36 17:31 22:37 Bring serenity [email protected] Fri 08 −0.06 ft 0.86 ft −0.19 ft 0.32 ft 6:47 18:45 ——————————————— Into your home FOR SALE Mac mini, Electronics, Real Estate, Rentals, etc… regulator, golf set, race bike, CO2 Vacation? Rent our house with 2 With “Feng Shui” 4,5mm air pistol, Makita drill, surf- porches and 3 bedrooms. $260 per week, board, etc. This and much more sold very excluding WEB (water/power). affordable through our online porch sale. Available from 2 to 23 February. Mail www.onlineporchsale.com to [email protected] ——————————— TE KOOP Monitor, blender, Bose Looking to rent in March 2013 during Make Your Home boxen, Makita cirkelzaag, koperen pan- the period of the 1st till 31st, a house or 2001 Toyota Pickup, 4 x 4, Double nen, keukentrap, etc. apartment in Bonaire with 2 bedrooms, cabin. With all the top luxury features, Dit en veel meer zeer goedkoop geprijsd kitchen and internet DSL connection. More Comfortable deluxe seats, Airco, variable speed wipers, te koop via onze online porch sale. Home exchange with our house on Aruba, keyless entry and more. 110,600 km. Gas FENG SHUI CONSULTATIONS www.onlineporchsale.com also possible. Contact and information (petrol) engine. $12,500 and well worth it. Also interior or exterior design advice ——————————————— [email protected] or cel: Call 717-7800 ask for Rafael or email For sale: one Linksys router, $ 40,--, +297 592-8446 China-trained. Experienced. [email protected] ink cartridges black + color for hp ———-——————————— Inexpensive. ———————————————— printer nr. 350 xl + 351xl each for $ 15, Waterfront cottage. Two bedrooms, Call Donna at 795-9332. private property, parking, safe. By owner, 1999 Ford F150 Pickup for sale. Great con- trafo 600, $ 50,-- Phone 717-2278 dition, Impeccably maintained. Airco, CD call 796-1803. Email to ————————————— Player, Double Cabin, Full Bed. $7,500. Call [email protected]. BIG PORCH SALE – Saturday, 795-2351 March 2 & Sunday, March 3- from two ——————————————— —————————————————— Check CARIB INN families, Kaya Zephyr 2 White house right House for rent at Belnem. 2 Bed- 2005 TOYOTA TACOMA 4D DOUBLE behind Yacht club Apartments from rooms, 1 bathroom. Furnished or unfur- CAB + BED CAP Only 6610 miles - excellent First. Great Prices 10AM till 5PM nished. Rent price includes garden- condition - airco, automatic transmission, C/D, ——————————————— maintenance. Low rent price. Phone 785- power seats, many more extras. Royal Blue - Looking for a full time or two part 9900 or 717-2698 $25,000 Call 717-6813 time positions in a shop or supermarket, CARIB INN light administration work in an office , Since 1980 cleaning homes+ an apartment to rent Sudoku Solution beginning March for around $500.00 a Sudoku Puzzle PADI 5 STAR GOLD PALM month, or more if some of the utilities are 717-8819 - 8 am to 5 pm daily included. Sharing OK so if someone needs (next to Divi Flamingo Hotel) a flatmate at [email protected]

16 Flights a day between Bonaire and Curaçao

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Page 16 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Bonairean Humor Opinions expressed are those of the writer, not necessarily those of The Reporter From the Papiamentu language newspaper èxtra

guy arrives home after one too many “What was the problem, did the brakes fail?” Holiday Destination Bonaire A drinks and his wife is not very happy. The guy says “No, the accelerator!” “Why did you come home a little drunk?” t was a cold she says. He says: “It’s not my fault. I ran married couple was driving and hav- I and dreary out of money so I couldn’t come home to- A ing a serious disagreement. All of a dark day in Janu- tally drunk.” sudden they passed by a kunuku and saw a ary, one of those couple of pigs. The husband says: Is that days in The Neth- eacher: Buchi I hope I don’t find out your family? The wife says: Yes, those are erlands with a T that you copied from anybody. my in-laws. leaden gray sky Buchi: I hope the same thing! and pelting rain. new teacher came to give a psychol- Whilst visiting guy arrives home drunk and covered A ogy course to Buchi’s class. The our daughter and A with lipstick stains. His wife asks: teacher stood up and said: All those who grandson in the “What happened to you, why are you all think they are an idiot stand up. No one city of Utrecht we covered in lipstick?” The guy says: “If I tell stood up. After a couple of seconds, Buchi were keen for you, you won’t believe me. I had a fight with stood up. The teacher said: Buchi, do you some entertain- a clown.” think you are an idiot? Buchi said: No, TCB-Europe awarded The Pink Egg for the top 2012 tourism initia- ment and decided teacher, I stood up because I felt sorry for tive to the Sky Health Club and the Ministry of EL & I received the on the holiday Promotional price for the support it has given to the tourism marketing n old man wanted to have a you that you were the only one standing. trade fair at the of Bonaire at the Utrecht Holiday Fair. TCB Europe photo A “pleasant” moment and said to his Utrechtse Jaar- old wife: Let’s go to the bedroom. The old man was talking with his pastor. beurshallen (convention center). Under- One of the brochures read: “Bonaire, Saba woman told him: Only with protection. The A “Pastor, I always enjoy giving more neath those roofs the sun would likely be and St. Eustatius, the BES islands for a man said: You think at your age something than I receive.” The pastor told him: “Very shining, with inviting sun bathing destina- beautiful vacation.” will stick? good, my son. What do you do for a living?” tions competing for the favor of the wallet But where was Bonaire? She says: Yes, I’m afraid of the salmonella The man answered: “I’m a boxer.” of those who still have something to spend. A hundred meters down the aisle, on a stuck in those old balls that you carry around A holiday trade fair is a fairyland and a corner we found the stand of Bonaire, with you. Bonaire in 2015: photo album rolled into one. You walk past maybe six square meters in size. Sorobon man went to shop at the butcher those places that you have already visited Resort, Sky Health and TCB shared the police officer stops a vehicle and A shop. “Can I please have one dollar’s and recollect memories. But there are also space. The present Caribbean Dutchmen A notices that the driver is really drunk. worth of ham?” “Sure you can” said the presentations of those things that you have handed out flyers. No tempting pictures or The officer says: You can barely walk! The butcher, “go ahead and always wanted to do. Board a tea-clipper captivating texts for an adventurous dive or driver says: I know, that’s why I came by take this knife and smell for a circumnavigation of the globe. Trek windsurfing holiday, and no attention for car. it.”  through Africa with a 4-wheel drive the even more exciting kite surfing. No  camper or tour the United States on a sign of the daily connection of the KLM or guy was really depressed and his Translated by Harley Davidson motorcycle. Vacations for the flights made by Arke. And where was A friend asked him “What is happening Jane Madden-Disko individualists or small groups are numerous the information about the nature, the un- with you?” The guy says: “I almost ran over and urgently on offer: North- and/or South spoiled character, the tranquility and the my mother in law with my car.” Friend says: Pole travel, culinary vacations in France, silence (apart from the swishing of the sea) rafting in Canada, sailing along the Cape of the island? On display was an offer for Verdean Islands, art holidays to Rome, an all-in at Sorobon and a health trip by the Vienna or Saint Petersburg. One can also SkyHealth Club. opt for hanging out for a few weeks on a A moderately showy and powerful pres- sunny beach, although most of those desti- entation of the unique properties of our nations round up the bulk of their business island was completely absent. Was it a case from the internet and travel agencies. of a lack of funds to create a noteworthy Googling for beach holidays will generate presentation or was it just a lack of imagi- 300 million hits to choose from. This sheer nation? number explains why some people still turn It is often stated that tourism of the well to travel agencies to have them sift out the heeled kind is essential to the economy of right “total package:” a hotel with a pool, a Bonaire. With this in mind I wonder what beach, daily menus and a bar, with or with- impression the visitors of the Holiday Fair out a colored wristband indicating your had of our island. And whether they would service level. be enticed to come and pay us a visit. I do We were more interested in the remote not think that the latter is very probable locations and curious to see whether we based on what I saw that day in January. would find something inspiring to do. We passed the stands of Chile, Argentina and So I left the fair with feelings of ambigu- Brazil. We flopped down in the stand of ity. What a wasted opportunity for my is- Surinam and imagined ourselves to be in a land. Is there really no other way to go canoe on the Surinam River on our way to about this? Why not team up with those Langetabbetje, stopping for tea at one of nice people from Saba and St. Eustatius? the plantations along the way. Why was there no representation of our And then we found ourselves in the Car- own islanders and of the friendliness and ibbean Pavilion where all the countries and tranquility Bonaire has to offer? Why has- islands from the Caribbean tried to show n’t someone dumped a cube of sand on themselves at their best. those six square meters with two beach- Curacao with a large stand, some relaxed chairs on top, played a video of diving and Antillean music added into the decor and surfing and served a nip of Cadushi di friendly ladies and gentlemen who showed Boneiru. It wouldn’t have taken more to get us the way to a delightful holiday on the passers-by in the mood. Open Nonstop island. I was disappointed but secretly also a Mon.- Friday. 8:00-19:00 Next to that the stand of Aruba. Just as little bit pleased. If this is how we present exuberant and elaborate with the possibility ourselves I need not worry my island will Sat.- Sunday- 8:00-18:00 of taking a rest and having an invigorating be trampled by hordes drink. Lots of resorts with some great pack- of tourists. Long live age deals. This was not for us so we the quiet and un- quickly moved on. spoiled nature of our Alongside the colorful stand of Jamaica island. I hope to enjoy was the equally well groomed and colorful it for a long time to presentation of Saba, and next to that the come.  Guus Ger- stand of St. Eustatius. The friendly Antil- ritsen lean hosts told us something about the is- lands and provided us with some brochures.

Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 17 AIRLINES PHOTOGRAPHER Divi Divi Air- Bonaire’s “on time airline” with 16 flights a day between Bonaire’s creative video and still photographer for the wedding or Bonaire and Curaçao. Your first choice for inter-island travel. Now flying to other important events in your life. ScubaVision, Kaya Grandi 6. See Aruba. website scubavision.info or ScubaVision on YouTube

APPLIANCES /TV/ ELECTRONICS/ REAL ESTATE /RENTAL AGENTS COMPUTERS Sunbelt Realty offers full real estate, rental, and City Shop, the mega store, has the island’s widest insurance services. If you want a home or to invest selection of large and small home appliances, furni- in Bonaire, stop in and visit. ture, TV, computers, cell phones and more. In-store Sunbelt Realty financing too. RESTAURANTS AUTOMOBILE DEALER Bistro de Paris— Waterfrontlocation at the Harbour Village Marina. Superb menu, genuine French dishes in a waterfront ambiance. Airco if you want it. Check out AutoCity Bonaire for the widest selection of new car brands on Bonaire including Chevrolet, Honda, Isuzu, Suzuki, Subaru. Used cars too. La Blandra at The Harbour Village Resort offers Bonaire’s most spec- Complete service department. Hertz rentals. tacular setting. Superb cuisine, top notch service. Eat on the deck or with your feet in the sand.

BANK Pasa Bon Pizza—Bonaire’s quality pizza-Best ingredients, best baking and ORCO Bank offers one-on-one attention, personal banking. Each client is best taste. Great salads and lasagna too. Eat in or take away. a person, not a number. Office in the historic building at Kaya Grandi 48. RETAIL BARS Benetton, world famous designer clothes available now in Bonaire at Zazu Bar at the Harbour Village Marina is all you expect in a great bar. prices less than those in US. For men, women and children. Super bartender, quality drinks and friendly service. Plus Bonaire’s only Bona Dea is Bonaire’s newest Caribbean life style shop featuring good Rum Bar– over 50 types! taste gifts, apparel, shoes, accessories and home décor

BEAUTY PARLOR SECURITY Special Security Services will provide that extra measure of protection Hair Affair. Expert hair cutting, styling, facials and facial waxing. when you need it. Always reliable.

CARS AND BIKES STORAGE De Freewieler sells bikes and all kinds of bike accessories. They do profes- The Storehouse (Mangazina in Papiamentu) sional repairs on almost anything on two wheels. Have your keys made offers Secure Storage for Vehicles, Household here too. Items, Diving and Sporting Gear, Business Files or Inventory. Across from the northern hotel row. CASINO The Coral Casino at the Plaza Resort has it all– Blackjack, Roulette, Carib- bean Stud, over 100 slots. Always specials and raffles. Free cab ride from SHIPPING your hotel. Rocargo Freight Air and sea shipments in/out of Bonaire. Customs agents. Professional and efficient. DENTURE REPAIR FedEx agent. What would we do without their All Denture Lab—for the best denture care by an experienced profes- superb services? sional. Repairs while you wait. Next to Botika Korona on Kaya J. G. Her- nandez. SPAS/GYM/HEALTH Bon Bida Spa & Gym World Class fitness and WANT A LISTING IN THIS DIRECTORY? health facility- Classes, top notch machines, trainers. It’s still free for regular advertisers in The Reporter. Call Laura at 786-6518 Day, monthly or annual rates. for more details.

ON and IN the WATER Budget Marine has what anyone with a boat needs, and if it’s not in stock SUPERMARKETS they can order it quickly. You can also find special hardware for general use TOP Supermarket— and components for solar and wind electric systems. Conveniently located downtown at the old Culti- mara location. Featuring a complete selection in- Carib Inn is Bonaire’s third oldest Dive Shop, open since 1980, is a 10- cluding fresh meat, fruit and vegetables. room resort tailoring to small-scale resort lovers. Well stocked scuba store, best prices on dive equipment. The place where others take their gear for repair. Warehouse Supermarket on Kaya Indus- tria—Big air conditioned market with a friendly Mon-Fri- 8:00-19:00 Dive Friends has four dive schools and three retail shops so you always get staff, the largest selection and lowest prices on Sat—Sun- 8:00-18:00 the best deals and can be assured of top notch training. Remodeled shop open the island. They stock what you need. now.

UNDERWATER VIDEO ScubaVision - Pro video of your Bonaire vacation, above and/or below the MADE ON BONAIRE water with a custom DVD by Bonaire’s top videographer, Hendrik Wuyts. Semper Kontentu goat cheese. Ask for it at restaurants and look for it in GARDEN SUPPLIES AND SERVICES the markets. Lovingly handmade. Mugs available. Green Label has everything you need to start or maintain your garden. They can design, install and maintain it and offer plants, irrigation supplies and gar- WATER TAXI den chemicals. Off Kaya Industria, behind Lucky Supermarket. Get to Klein Bonaire by Ferry. Ride the Kantika di Amor. Hotel or downtown pickup The only water taxi to Klein Bonaire with an easy on/off HOME CARE built-in ramp at Bonaire Nautico (It Rains Fishes Restaurant) Bonaire Second Home Care can handle all the needs of second home own- ers on Bonaire including inspection, management and cleaning.

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Page 18 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Flotsam (Continued from page 2) are participating It starts at 8 am until Aruba migrated to The Netherlands in noon. Don’t miss it. 2012. This is fewer than the 4,200 people who moved to The Netherlands in 2011. Bonaire has two new advertisers in However, 3,500 persons from the Dutch this addition that merit attention from our Caribbean left The Netherlands in 2012, readers. which is higher than the 3,100 persons in -The first is the La Balandra Restaurant 2011. Overall the number of immigrants and bar at the Harbour Village Resort. from the largest immigrant countries, It’s designed after an antique Spanish sail- which are Turkey, Morocco, Suriname and ing-ship giving diners the shipboard feeling the former Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, being surrounded by water without the continued to decrease in 2012. rocking motion of sailing at sea. In short, the setting is spectacular and cannot be WILLEMSTAD--The management compared with anywhere else on Bonaire. The Recompression Chamber Foundation (De Stichting Recompressietank Bonaire ) estab- of St. Elisabeth Hospital was blamed for The gates of the Harbour Village Resort lished on January 16, 1986, celebrated its 27th anniversary this year. In the photo are mem- not providing a vital part of the treat- will open for you if you tell the gatekeeper bers of the current board from L. to R.:Robert Smaal, Dr Dick van der Vaart (founder and ment of decompression sickness follow- you are dining at La Balandra. Many island dive physician), President Ruud Vermeulen, Rosalie Bierings and Yke Faber. ing the diving accident on May 19 last people and visitors think that La Balandra year, which resulted in the death of two is only for Harbour Village hotel guests. Because it does not meet Dutch and US standards for a individuals, Curacao Inspector of Health Nothing could be further from the truth, but medical school the St. James Medical School has been re- Jan Huurman concluded. Although the pair call 717-7500 for reservations first because quired to close its doors in May. Its loss will be a blow to the were flown to Bonaire it was too late to the restaurant may be full. local economy, estimated to be worth as much as $10 million save their lives. “St. Elisabeth had a func- -Need a new or used car? Visit annually, according to members of the Island Council. School tioning pressure tank in the past, but due to AutoCity Bonaire, just off the main road management has advised its students that the ruling is being lack of maintenance and in-service training to the airport, To get there you have to turn appealed. Students were advised to stay enrolled because they the treatments were discontinued,” Huur- onto Kaya Industria, then Kaya Finlandia. have been promised alternatives that will allow them to gradu- man explained. The old pressure tank was They sell all the hottest brands at very com- ate. often used when it was still operational. petitive prices: Chevrolet, Honda, Isuzu The American Educational Commission for Foreign Medical The current, modern pressure tank at the and Subaru. It’s a full service dealership, Graduates gave the St. James School of Medicine (SJSM ) on hospital is not in use owing to complicated equipped with its own showroom, garage Bonaire three years to meet the quality requirements of the political and legal developments. and parts department. With more than 25 Netherlands for recognition in the International Medical Educa- units in stock, and a backup of 200 units tion Directory as an institution of higher education under US  from AutoCity Curacao, car buyers have Arthur law. The St. James School has failed to do this. Only students of medical schools listed in plenty of choice. Under the same roof you Sealy is the the International Medical Education Directory may participate in the US exams which, new chairman will find the office of Hertz Rent a Car and when successfully completed, lead to the degree of Medical Doctor. Since the school can- of MiVaBo, the Leasing. AutoCity Bonaire. not be listed until requirements are met its graduates cannot qualify for examination. The foundation that Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science says it is not its requirement, but the lobbies for a Rob Taal is planning to have a American Commission’s that prompted concerns about the possible closure of SJSM. more modern Caribbean FD Open Championship Reportedly, the SJSM on Bonaire has between 300-350 resident students and that number disability policy event after Christmas here on Bonaire. has been growing steadily over the years. There are approximately 20 resident teachers plus in Bonaire. He FD stands for Flying Dutchman a former administrative and managerial support staff. It is estimated that each resident here because follows Hetty Burgos, who earlier this Olympic Class sailing boat. It’s expected of the School spends at least $1,500 per month on housing, food, communication, clothing, month had to resign for health reasons. that between 20 and 40 boats from all entertainment, etc. Arthur was born and raised Bonairean, over the world will take part. Hopefully The Medical School itself pays monthly between $125,000 and $150,000 in rent, WEB, a man with much knowledge and many this will be a prelude to the 2016 or 2017 insurance, salaries, etc., representing approximately $1.25 to $1.5 million dollars annually. skills. Also he has a large network, which Sunfish World event in Bonaire. Losing the school would be a blow to the fragile island economy. (Sources RCN/OLB releases) is what a lobbying organization such as Help is needed to organize and conduct MiVaBo needs, said Secretary Oswald the races. If you can help contact Ton at 2013 vehicle registration began on February 18. This year new license plates Melcherts. In 2012 Sealy first became the Bonaire Sailing School Association. will be required on all motor vehicles. The rates for paying by debit card are shown involved in MiVaBo when he was chair- Email [email protected] below. If you pay by cash they are rounded up to the nearest dollar, According to a government press release because of logistic and security conditions you will have to man of the conference, "Disability Policy st in Bonaire." Following this conference, As a “warm-up” for the 21 edition pay the tax at the central Kralendijk tax office then go to the old LTS office on the government has made great progress of Bonaire’s Dia di Arte on July 7 at Wil- J.A. Abraham Boulevard to present proof of payment and valid ID and collect in the formation and implementation of helmina Park, art exhibitions are set for your new plate. The release apologized for the inconvenience.. disability policies. March 4, April 7, May 5 and June 2 in the garden of the Sentro Chichi'Tan Museum in Fuel Letter Full Year Half Year Plate Sticker Rincon from 10 am – 4 pm. Local artists Every first Saturday of the month are invited to participate. Contact Gasoline B—V $189.94 $94.97 $8.60 $2.25 there is a Farmers’ Market at Kriabon [email protected] for a spot. Diesel B—V $837.98 $418.99 $8.60 $2.25 on Kaya Nikiboko north, next to the Aq- Gasoline TX-AB $136.87 $68.43 $8.60 $2.25 uamarine School. But this month, on Get ready for the 11th annual Special Saturday, March 2, there will be a very Olympics fundraiser Walkathon set for Diesel TX-AB $209.49 $104.74 $8.60 $2.25 special Market. Not only will there be Sunday, March 3 at 5 am. Start to train for Gasoline BF $136.87 $68.43 $5.60 $1.40 delicious homemade products, fruits, the 30 km. walk tracing the route of the Diesel Z $1,256.98 $628.49 $5.60 $1.40 vegetables, plants and trees, ecological slaves from the white slave huts to Rincon.. pesticides and fertilizers, but Burnett See page 21 for more. details and sign-up Felida will be there to give a demonstra- information amazed at the constant traffic from all tion with his Colombian Pasa Fino over the world that is continually tracked horses. These Markets are becoming The Bonaire Reporter is on-line at along the left part of the page. Advertis- th th more and more popular and more people www.bonairereporter.com. You’ll be ing in The Reporter pays off. G./L. D. Remember March 15 & 16

and the Police Corps have warmed to the Island Public Prosecutor’s idea that for each $28 that someone owes they should stay in jail for a day. Of course this is a great idea for someone with no money to buy food, so maybe they put it there so the very old people, about to be arrested, will be close to their loved ones for visiting.” Just hen friends come to the island and ask what is that ob- thinking …. Of course I could come up with much darker scenarios W noxious yellow building in the prime real estate area of but they would just be wild speculation. downtown I have to admit that it is indeed the JICN prison. I don’t let them know that this is only one of the two prisons that “In the middle of your tourist area?” they ask. “Why would The Netherlands has in the works for us. This would be way too anyone think this was a good idea?” much for them to absorb on one trip.  Maggie Kaiser Booi. Hard pressed to come up with a great reason as to why our poli- ticians or the “Dutch” would think this is a good idea I say, Editorial Note: The JICN “room rate” of $28 per day, all inclu- “Well, we have new policies now to collect fines and the old peo- sive of meals, TV, fitness center, but no air conditioning, is cer- ple can’t pay their taxes because they are too high and the income tainly the least expensive accommodation rate on the island. is way too low. Royal Military Police, the Island Tax Department

Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 19 Upcoming Cruise Ships– Source: Harbormaster's Office Day Date Ship Name Time in # of Cruise Line Happy Hour party at Bistro Di Paris. de Palm at 786-3827 or Lucia Martinez Port pass. Ricky Thomas performs Reggae, Soul, Beck, at 786-2953. Latin and more 6 - 9pm. Emerald 1200- CHURCH SERVICES Thursday 21-Feb-13 Princess 1900 3100 Princess Cruises FREE SLIDE/VIDEO SHOWS 1000- Monday -- Touch the Sea -- Dee Scarr, Protestant Congregation of Bonaire: Tuesday 26-Feb-13 Aida Luna 1800 2194 Aida Cruises honored as a member of the Women ( VPGB ), Kralendijk, Plaza Wilhel- Divers Hall of Fame, conducts Bonaire's mina; Sunday service-10 am in Dutch. Wednes- Grandeur 0800- Touch the Sea programs of personalized Rincon, Kaya C.D. Crestian; Sunday day 27-Feb-13 of the Seas 1800 2446 Celebrity/RCCL dive guiding. She presents a unique per- service-8:30 am in Papiamentu/Dutch. Vision of 1200- spective on critters and corals, plus an Children’s club-every Saturday from Monday 4-Mar-13 the Seas 1900 2435 Celebrity/RCCL updated Bonaire lionfish report, every 4:30-6 pm in Kralendijk, (annex of the Monday when she's on-island at 8:30 church.) Contact; [email protected] Wednes- Grandeur 0800- pm in the Aquarius Conference Center at or [email protected] day 6-Mar-13 of the Seas 1800 2446 Celebrity/RCCL Captain Don's Habitat, Call 717-8290. International Bible Church, Kaya Thurs- 0700- Wednesday - Sea Turtle Conservation Papago 104, Hato, behind Bon Fysio/Bon day 7-Mar-13 Noordam 1900 1920 HAL Bonaire (STCB) presents an informative Bida Spa & Gym on Kaya Gob. N. De- slide show: Sea Turtles of Bonaire, at brot. Sunday 9am-Worship service in CLOSE-IN EVENTS All tables are free every Saturdays ex- 8pm, every 2nd and 4th Wednesday in English; 10:45am-Sunday school for all

cept for the first Saturday of every the conference room at Captain Don's ages. Tuesday 7:30 pm-Adult Bible study Wednesday February 20, CIEE Re- month, $10 per table. Donations of used Habitat (717-8290) class. 717-8377 for more info or ride bo- search Station Bonaire presentation - clothing are welcome. [email protected] ‘Sea urchins: How can an animal with- • Open House at Semper Kontentu BONAIRE’S TRADITIONS Catholic: San Bernardus in Kralendijk milk goat farm. Second Saturday of out eyes see the light?’ 7 pm – 8 pm Mangasina di Rei, Rincon. Enjoy the view – Services, Sunday at 8 am and 7 pm in the month, 8 am to 12 noon. 786-6950 Kaya Gobernador Debrot 26; phone from “The King’s Storehouse.” Learn about Papiamentu, 717-8304. • 717-4140 Marshe di Kunukeru (Farmers’ Mar- Bonaire’s culture. Visit homes from the 17th Our Lady of Coromoto in Antriol, Sat- ket) 1st Saturday of the month, at Kri- century. Daily. Call 717-4060 / 790-2018 urday at 6 pm in English. Mass in Papia- abon, Kaminda Jatu Baco #55, next to Museo Sentro Chichi’Tan, historical mentu on Sunday at 9 am and 6 pm. 717- Sunday, February 24- Jin Shin Aquamarin School, 8 am to 12 noon. 4211. Jyutsu workshop with Liz Paugoula- home, behind Rose Inn, Rincon, open •Bonaire Animal Shelter’s “Garage Assembly of God (Asemblea di Dios): tos. Jin Shin Jyutsu is the art of releas- 10am-4pm daily. Tel. 786-6420 Sale” Pakus di Pruga—every Saturday, Washington-Slagbaai National Park Kaya Triton (Den Cheffi). In English, ing tensions which are the causes for 8am-5pm. At Kaminda Liberador Simon Dutch & Papiamentu on Sunday at 10 am. various symptoms in the body. Cost: Museum and Visitors’ Center. Open Bolivar, across from Brandaris Café. Tel. daily 8 am-5 pm. Closed on December Wed. Prayer Meeting at 7:30 pm. 717- donation for the Animal Shelter. Spon- 717-4989. Drop off cast offs at the Shel- 25th and January 1st. Call 788 - 9015 or 2194 sored by Yoga Bonaire at Bonaire Ba- ter on the Lagoen Road. 717-4989 796 - 5681 Ministerio di Kristu Hesus Services • sics, 10-11:30am. Tel. 786-6416 Wine Tasting at Antillean Wine Com- Sunday mornings at 10 am at Jong Bonaire pany’s warehouse on Kaya Industria, Youth Center in English, Dutch and Papia- CLUBS and MEETINGS Saturday, March 2—Farmers’ Mar- Second Saturday of the month, 7-9 pm. mentu. Preaching the full gospel. Contact: ket at Kriabon, Kaminda Jatu Baco (Always call to make sure it’s on: Tel. AA meetings - every Wednesday at 786-2557. 7pm. Phone: 790-7001 and 796-4931 #55, next to Aquamarin School. Paso 560-7539. ) Snacks and tasting of six Prayer and Intercession Church, in Fino horses presentation, 8 am-noon. wines for $10 per person. Al-Anon meetings - every Thursday English. A full Gospel Church located • evening at 7.30pm. Call 700-7751 or 701- Soldachi Tours—See the real Bon- temporarily at Kaya Alexandrit # 20, aire and be transported back in time. 8728 Santa Barbara, Republiek. Services are Sundays, March 3, April 7, May 5 Learn about the history, culture and na- Bridge Club - Every Wednesday, held Sunday mornings10am-11:30am. and June 2 Dia di Arte Preview in the ture by Bonaireans from Rincon. Call Bridge Club on Bonaire. 19:15, contact Bible studies in English on Monday garden of the Sentro Chichi'Tan Mu- Maria Koeks for more information—796- Jeroen Seegers for information tel. 717- nights from 7-8 pm. Contact: 717-3322 seum in Rincon from 10 am – 4 pm 7870. 4200 or788-2819 or [email protected] The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter •Petanque- Jeu de Boules, Satur- Darts Club plays every other Sunday -day Saints: Kaya Sabana #26, Sun- Sunday, March 3—Special Olym- days 2:30 pm Tera Cora ranch. info: at City Café. Registration at 4, games at days: 9 am Sacrament Services pics Walk-a-Thon -See page 21 for 786-0150 5. Tel. 717-2950, 560-7539. (Translation to English and Papiamentu details Sundays Lions Club meets every 2nd and 4th upon request) 10:20am- Sunday School, •Kunuku Arawak - Music, drinks, local Thursday of the month at 8 pm at Kaya 11:15 RS/YM/YW/PH Primary held Sunday, March 10—Clean up Dive, food, dancing, 10 am—6 pm. Live mu- Sabana #1. All Lions welcome. For more from 10:20-12 noon Visitors wel- sponsored by Dive Friends, Te. 717- sic starts at 4 pm. Tel.786-7210 information call 510-0710. come: Information: Call 701-9522 . 2929 Mondays Rotary lunch meetings Wednesdays, Foundation Fountain of Living Wa- ters, Centro Fuente, Service Sunday at • Soldachi Tours of Rincon, the heart 12:15-2 pm - Divi Flamingo Beach Re- Kaya Aruaco 4 at 6 pm, in Papiamentu March 15th & 16th - BON DOET of Bonaire, 9 am-noon. $20-Call sort in Peter Hughes meeting room up- and Spanish. For Marriage Counseling, Maria, 717-6435-best island tour value stairs above the dive shop. All Rotarians More in the next edition contact 717-2161. • Meet the Captain Night at Captain welcome. Call Gregory Obersi 785-9446. Don’s Habitat Bar– Get up close and Toastmasters Club meets every two personal with Bonaire’s dive pioneer. The weeks. For more information call Crusita Captain will autograph your copy of his REGULAR EVENTS newest book Reef Windows.. • Rooi Lamoenchi Kunuku Park Wednesdays Who’s Who on The Bonaire Reporter Tours $21 (includes tax). Discounts for Chez Nous School Restaurant– Take The Reporter Home—1-year subscription: By mail to US $75; By mail to residents and local people. Tel. 717-8489, Multi course dinners-through end of Europe $170. By Internet, Free (asking a $35 donation.) For information about 540-9800. February. $20, 6-8:30pm. Contact se- subscriptions, stories or advertising in The Bonaire Reporter, PO Box 407, • We Dare to Care Park children’s [email protected] Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean; phone (599) 786-6518, 786-6125, E-mail: playground open hrs 1 - 7 pm, or phone 717-8142. [email protected] Entrance fees: Salary range from $0 - Girls Night Out at Bistro de Paris Res- The Bonaire Reporter, George DeSalvo, Publisher; Laura DeSalvo, Editor-in- $1500 free. taurant at Harbour Village Marina. 3- Chief - Address: P. O. Box 407, Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean. Available on-line at: $1500 - $2000: $25 per month. course menu $25, 1/2 price martinis and www.bonairereporter.com Published every two weeks house wine bottle $2000 - $2500: $30 per month Reporters: Bob Berman, Evert Bongers, Maggie Kaiser Booi, J@n Brouwer, 30-minute Meditation at Yoga Bon- $2500 and up: $50 per month. Regis- Christy Dovale, Michael Gaynor, Guus Gerritsen, Wilna Groenenboom, Carla tration forms can be picked up at the aire, Bonaire Basics. 786-6416 or [email protected] Hay, Patrick Holian, Greta Kooistra, Jane Madden-Disko (JMD), Mystery Gour- playground. Call 786- 4576/795-4050. met, Michael Thiessen, Pam Werdath All candidates must present their last Fridays Unattributed photos are by the editor or publisher. salary slip. Happy Hour Crafts Market at Wil- Saturdays helmina Park, sponsored by Bonaire Distribution: Marlene & Co. (Playa), Yuchi Molina (Rincon), Divi-Divi Airline, We Dare To Care Playground Ba- Arts and Crafts Association. 5-9 pm. Ava Rose Wuyts (mailing) Housekeeping: JRA. zaar. Weekly Flea market 9am-1pm. Printed by: DeStad Drukkerij, Curaçao ©2013 The Bonaire Reporter

Page 20 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 The Schworers and friends at Klein Bonaire

Swiss couple who is trying to raise this was quite a departure from their ex- A the consciousness of climate perience in other places and was impressed change with a unique world-spanning with Bonaire’s sensitivity to the environ- awareness campaign called at Bonaire last ment. week. They made a short stop at Budget The sailing was perfect on their 400nm Marine on their way through as Budget is leg to Bonaire from Trinidad/Tobago. one of the sponsors for their Caribbean They saw dolphins and a green flash sun- travels. set on the 2nd day when the sun went Sabine and Dario Schworer, their three- down. At sundown on the third evening year-old daughter Salina and two-year-old they tried to put into the Aves islands but it son Andri, are on a mission to travel the got too dark too quickly and they had to world only by the use of human power, give up because of the many coral heads wind power and solar power, and motivate there and no moon. They arrived in Bon- thousands of school students to get in- aire at 1 am in the morning so spent the volved with nature and have fun along the rest of the time till sunrise hove-to, before way. looking for a mooring. Their global expedition started in Ge- But when they got to Kralendijk they neva on December 3, 2002, calling it a couldn't find a single free buoy and were “Swiss Top To Top.” Sabine and Dario on the verge of turning and sailing on to ll Bonaire is invited to partici- climbed to the highest point of each Can- Curacao because anchoring is forbidden in A pate for all or part of the Spe- ton in Switzerland in 160 days, non-stop, Bonaire marine park waters. Luckily, the cial Olympics Walkathon on Sunday, covering in total 2,953km and 96,609 ver- very last buoy, right next to the cruise ship March 3. tical meters. dock, was free. You may walk the distance, you The Swiss expedition was a major suc- In the immigration office they heard that may bike, you may skate board – the cess, so the couple decided to take it global all the schools were closed due to the Kar- whole distance or just part of it. You and “sail the seven seas to the seven sum- naval holidays so they decided to do a may do it in groups, with family, mits by nature’s power.” Ever since then clean-up on the beach of Klein Bonaire with friends or singly. they have been sailing, cycling and climb- where the children had been invited to a You don’t need to be a participant ing and have already visited over 30 na- birthday party. However, when they got to to help. You may buy tickets or spon- tions. the beach they only found a pair of shoes, sor a walker. Tickets are $15 each. From here they are heading to the Pa- a lip balm and a few plastic cups. It was Contact: Chio 540-6840, Arlene nama Canal, off to Hawaii, then up to nice to see four big bins that had been pro- 525-8496, Aura 796- 0101, Elske- Alaska to climb Mt Denali, the highest vided by the STINAPA National Parks 701 1999 or Ruth 796-6930. peak in North America. They will then Foundation Bonaire. traverse the Northwest Passage to New Now it's time for you to participate as The Walkathon was the original At last Year’s Walkathon York, back to the Caribbean in around a well. Send your video or PDF showcasing idea of Elizabeth Wigny and Delno Tromp who were in search of funds to support year and a half when they hope to visit us either your own environmental action, a Bonaire’s Special Olympics Team. Delno explains, “Special Olympics Bonaire was again. Then, again through the canal and climate solution you created, a good envi- established on March 4, 1999, and it changed the attitude of the students. They had this time head south to the Antarctic to ronmental example in your region to their final peak of Mt Vinson. [email protected] and students can win to train, like a ritual. They were enthused. They loved it. It was a chance to be spe- They estimate it will take at least three a trip to join them in Switzerland for the cial!” more years to complete their voyage. But Awards Expedition. For a video and more speed is not what they are concerned information go to http:// More than 11 years ago Elizabeth and Delno were doing walks together. Eliza- about. They want to leave a green path expedition.toptotop.org/ beth had read about Bonaire’s history with the slaves having to walk from Rincon and minimize their ecological footprint, archives/2013_01.html  G.D./Pam Wer- to the salt pans. They thought, why not do a walk from the slave huts to Pasa Dia in making sure their message is heard. dath/Press release Rincon as a fundraiser for Special Olympics Bonaire? The idea was born and the first Walkathon was on January 2003. Nearly the whole island helped. It took a lot A qualified ski and mountaineering of organizing but it was an outstanding success. guide, a hang gliding pilot, river rafting Top to Top is a non-profit organization of Since then Bonaire’s Special Olympics team has been financially able to partici- guide, canyoning guide, skipper and diver, volunteers from 28 nations, based in Swit- Mr. Schworer is passionate about harness- zerland. Its patron is the United Nations pate in the Special Olympics games in Ireland, China and Greece. ing natural energy sources and preventing Environment Program, and while the organi- The starting line is on Sunday, March 3 at 5 am for walkers and runners and 7 pm global warming. zation does have some Swiss sponsors for its for bikers. The finish line is at Pasa di Karino in Rincon. Mrs. Schworer, a qualified nurse, said equipment, the crew relies mainly on the Main Sponsors- Digicel, FATUM, HITESS, MCB Bank & NAPA; other sponsors having her children while travelling across support and generosity of people across the - Multipost, Toshiba, Flamingo Communications, Playa Trading, Goddard Cater- the globe has been a good experience. globe donating to the expedition. Top to Top ing, Bonaire Best Brand (bbb), Rum Runners and Hotel Rochaline. L.D. Both were born in Chile, South America. takes action focused on the chances and As well as showing children that great risks of climate change. The Top to Top Times and Dates : objective is to connect people to nature. things can be achieved in harmony with Friday, March 1 –5-7 pm and Saturday, March 2, 10 am-4 pm – Buy tickets Visit the Top to Top website at nature, the Top to Top team also organize and pick up T-shirt and water bottle, Hotel Rochaline, Kaya Grandi #7 aid such as school materials, medicine and www.toptotop.org to learn more about this amazing expedition. Volunteers are also Sunday, March 3 – 5 am at the Slvae Huts – Walkathon begins 5 am for food for people affected by climate walkers/runners, 7 am for bikers change, as well as performing weekly welcome to join the team on certain legs of the expedition, cycling, sailing and climbing. Finish Line: Pasa dia Kariño (Rincon) clean ups, removing waste from coastal If you are interested head to the website or Lunch at Pasa dia – 9:30-12:30 and protected nature parks. They gave a email Dario at: [email protected] Price: $15 per person try at cleaning up Klein Bonaire but found little trash. Mr. Schworer commented that

Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013 Page 21 oral reefs wouldn’t be the Ariana Snow photo C colorful habitats they are to- day without the appetites of plant- eating marine animals. Instead, cor- als and rocks would all be covered with algae and other bottom-living plants! Algae grow especially well when marine waters are nutrient- enriched with human-created pollu- tion, posing a threat to reefs as algae overgrow corals, blocking the sunlight that corals need to survive. Luckily for divers and snorkelers, nature has a check on this threat: hen you call her worldwide, marine plant-eaters re- name she looks up W move almost 70% on average of ma- and with those beautiful pale rine photosynthetic plants. These green eyes says, "Did you call plant-eaters range from large fish like my name? Yes, that's me, Wi- parrotfish, to sea urchins, to tiny snails. In fact, Elizabeth Davis nona! Have you come to take snails, though diminutive, are one of the most me to my forever home?" ferocious grazers of algae on rocky shorelines. Davis studies Environ- Winona is a beautiful, vo- Experiments have shown that when snails and mental Science at Indiana luptuous black and white other grazers are removed from the shoreline, University. This fall she is "Tuxedo Cat," known for their within weeks seaweeds and plant life have re- studying marine ecosystems intelligence and dedication to turned. with CIEE Research Station their owners. (Shakespeare, Next time you see the little snails on Bonaire’s Bonaire and researching Beethoven and Sir Isaac New- shorelines, consider how much more seaweed Bonaire’s coastal water ton were Tuxedo Cat lovers.) ver see a dog wearing a might be present if they weren’t there! quality. Tuxedo Cats are not only al- E funny vest or a strange col- ways formally attired....they are lar with an ID Tag? Sometimes also always special, and Wi- you will see one on an airplane or nona is no exception. She has under the table at a restaurant (yes, unusually soft fur that is a de- it is legal). These are specially light to stroke...but it also holds trained pooches with a unique pedigree. They are “Assistance a secret. Brush her hair back in Dogs” who aid folks with mild to the opposite direction and you'll serious handicaps. discover a beautiful SILVER The Bonaire Animal Shelter is undercoat! now sponsoring a program to train Winona has been at the Bon- young adults to become dog train- aire Animal Shelter for almost a ers with the eventual goal of be- year. Perhaps she has been coming certified therapy/ passed over because she is not assistance dog handlers. A therapy an "in your face" cat, but pre- dog is one who is used to visit the fers to wait for you to let her elderly, hospitals or any place they know that you would like her can share the love they give with- company. out bounds to someone in need. When you invite her to you These programs have proven to be she is an extremely loving and a success worldwide. affectionate cat...both with hu- Underdog has three goals in its mans and other cats. She will sit mission. Shelter Manager Marlies in your lap for as long as you Tiepel explains, “We want to res- want her to and also willingly cue some of the many dogs at the makes herself available to all Shelter that may not otherwise be adopted. Also we want to train a the other cats at the Shelter to few young adults to become certi- snuggle into her for a nap. She fied dog trainers. Our other goal is also still has a bit of a "kitten to have at-risk teens as well as streak"....when a stuffed mouse others in need of an assistance dog or toy grabs her interest she will be able to have the joy of pet own- run and roll and play like a ership. In many areas of the US, youngster. Whether you are prison inmates are becoming train- looking for a single, loving ers. Since Bonaire is a rabies-free companion or an addition to island, the possibility of exporting your cat family....Winona is a assistance dogs becomes a busi- truly special and beautiful cat ness opportunity for a few young that will fit the bill. She is about entrepreneurs. The dog grooming two and a half years old, steril- business is also another possibility ized, healthy and ready to grace along with a center to train dog your home with her beauty, handlers. The list is endless. playfulness and her love. She As with all our projects, we are has been patiently waiting for self funded and are asking your her forever home, maybe that help. If you'd like to partner with home is yours. us to cover costs for the program, please email us at You can visit Winona and animalshelterbonaire all the other cat and dog resi- @gmail.com or dents at the Shelter on Monday [email protected]. US citi- through Saturday, 8 am to 1 pm zens can donate through Support and 3 to 5 pm. They are all Bonaire http:// waiting for you.  Jane Mad- www.supportbonaire.org” den Disko Michael Gaynor 

Page 22 Bonaire Reporter- February 22- March 8, 2013

*to find it... just look up By Astrologer Michael Thiessen February 2013 2013 THE BEST AND THE BRIGHTEST ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Small comes to taking care of your financial n the northern business ventures can earn you extra situation. You can come up with solu- hemisphere I Part of the February Sky cash. Disharmony in your relationship tions to the problems responsible for February is one of may cause minor ailments. Be sure to inefficiencies at work. You have a ten- the coldest months find out all you can before you commit dency to think that no one else will do of the year, but to anything. You can expect sorrow to things properly. Your lucky day will be dressing for the sea- evolve from the information you dis- Sunday. son doesn’t matter much in the Bonaire cover. Your lucky day will be Tuesday. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Avoid Sky Park. You TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) lovers who already have a relationship, won’t have to bun- Arguments could prevail. Resistance even if it is a bad one. Your energy will dle up if you like leading to conflict will only make it be high; however, if not channeled suita- your celestial sights twice as hard to turn the situation bly, temper tantrums may erupt. You to be bright and around. Dealing with in-laws or relatives will upset your partner if you have spent dazzling. Just step will not be in your best interest. Be in- money on things that aren't necessary. outside any clear quisitive about unfamiliar circumstances. Empty promises and a lack of cash may night. Your lucky day will be Wednesday. put a damper on your plans. Your lucky Looking up on GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Be cau- day will be Sunday. February evenings, tious and use your head wisely in situa- SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) you'll find the con- tions that deal with the use of machinery You must try to lay your cards on the stellation Orion the or vehicles. If you can't trust someone, table. Talk to your mate and tell them Hunter standing tall question the connection. Overindulgence how you feel. Minor health problems and bright. In fact, may be a problem. You will have origi- will cause setbacks if you haven't taken Orion is the bright- nal ideas for ways to make extra proper care of yourself. You may not be est constellation in money. Your lucky day will be Sunday. able to help, but your support will be the northern hemi- CANCER (June 22-July 22) To avoid favorable. You may need a good friend sphere, with seven any minor health problems, don't get too to lean on. Your lucky day will be stars of magnitude 2 or brighter. Two of stressed. If you're feeling uncertain, Thursday. Orion’s stars, Betel- spend some time alone and reevaluate CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) geuse and Rigel, are among the top 10 Greek mythology, and Gemini's two bright your motives as well as your needs. Mi- Monitor your budget carefully to avoid brightest stars in the sky. The brightness of stars carry their names. Below Gemini are nor health problems will cause setbacks unnecessary stress. You can get a pro- Betelgeuse is all the more remarkable be- the two dogs of Orion, Canis Minor and if you haven't taken proper care of your- motion if you put in a little extra detail. cause the star is quite distant as bright stars Canis Major, the Greater and Lesser Dogs. self. You can't help everyone. Your You may find that your quick wit and go—640 light-years from Earth. Betelgeuse Each constellation contains a bright star. In lucky day will be Saturday. charm will help you in obtaining allies. appears bright despite its distance because it Canis Minor, it's Procyon, which translates LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Be prepared to Your emotional reaction will be depend- is 135,000 times brighter than our Sun! from the Greek as "before the dog." Procyon make changes to your personal docu- ent upon your partner's responsive- Above and to the right of Orion is a very gets its name because it rises each night just ments. You hard work and dedication ness. Your lucky day will be Thursday. bright collection of objects. Most dazzling before Sirius in Canis Major. And since will payoff, so stick to your guns and do AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Don't of these is the planet Jupiter, the largest Sirius is known as "the dog star," Procyon your job well. Residential moves look be afraid to talk to close friends or rela- and brightest of the planets. Close by are rises "before the dog." Sirius, of course, is hectic and sudden changes in your life tives about pressing personal problems. two open star clusters, the well-known the brightest of all the stars and is a transla- are likely. Someone is trying to pull the You're eager to learn. Toning, fitness, Pleiades. If you have even a small pair of tion of the Greek word for "scorcher." wool over your eyes, and if you're gulli- pampering should all be scheduled. binoculars, use them to observe both clus- Altogether, six of the sky's 17 brightest ble, it may cost you. Your lucky day will Don't let other people meddle in your ters. The nearby bright star Aldebaran stars are on display in this part of the sky: be Saturday. private affairs. Your lucky day will be completes this grouping. Compare the color Sirius, Rigel, Procyon, Betelgeuse, Alde- VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Brunch, Monday. of Aldebaran to that of other stars and you baran, and Pollux. a long walk, or a quiet dinner will secure PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Taking on will find it has a slightly orangish hue, simi- Your time to see the stars is shortening a lar to Betelguese. Both are red giant stars, bit. By the month’s end, each successive your position in the relationship. You too much won't help the situation. Spend and their color is distinctly different from day is 2 to 3 minutes longer in Bonaire, 3 to may need to make a choice. Refrain some time on yourself. Talk to someone blue-white stars such as Rigel. Star colors 4 minutes longer in most of the lower US, 4 from arguing with your mate. Opportuni- with experience about budgets or con- are very subtle, but the difference between to 5 minutes longer in most of Europe, and ties to get ahead are evident. Your lucky solidating debts. Based on your excite- Aldebaran and Rigel is fairly easy to see. 6 to 7 minutes longer in Alaska.  day will be Wednesday. ment, serious-minded individuals will be To the upper left of Orion, we find the Bob Berman LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Elders more than interested in backing your constellation Gemini, the Twins. Castor may get you going this week. Get ready ideas. Your lucky day will be Friday.  and Pollux are twin brothers in Roman and to do some fancy footwork when it

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