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Kunuku Shimaruku, PO Box 407, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles, Phone 790-8988, 790-6518, email: [email protected] Since 1994 he Island Council has excise tax on gasoline. Bonaire Captain Don was Table of Contents T directed appropriate learned that, upon request of the honored by the dive in- government agencies (LVV unions, Curaçao put off the in- dustry last weekend in

crease in the price of gasoline an award ceremony at and SSV) to eliminate roam- This Week’s Stories the Beneath The Sea ing dogs. Perhaps motivated by and is looking for alternatives. Flotsam & Jetsam, Ca’pn Don the recent attack on two women Bonaire wants the Central Gov- conference in New Jer- 2 walking near Seru Largu who ernment to help Bonaire look sey. Captain Don Stewart Clear Water Means Healthy were severely bitten by a pack for long-term alternatives for the received the Diver of the Corals (Tom Reynolds) 3 of four runaway “guard dogs” as problem. The BC stressed that Year Pioneer award. Tourist Sickness Cure 4 well as continuing attacks on Bonaire is not interested in short In part, the award A House In Bonaire? 6 Windsurfing Wave Competi- farmers livestock, the action is term solutions that will cause stated: “There is an old tion 8 set to begin next week. more financial problems for joke that you can always Nature’s Monuments 10 Bonaire in the long run. recognize the pioneer, Walkathon Success 11 he's the one laying face- Captain Don Bonaire Reefs Are Best 12 down in the field with an Letters to the Editor (Hotel De- Original painting by Henk Roozendaal arrow in his back. But velopment, Good Schools, New PO Service?) 15 that cynical observation doesn't allow for the visions that pioneers such as Captain Don Stewart are driven by, visions of a future the rest of us live-in and enjoy because these pioneering men-of-vision took the time from WEEKLY FEATURES their lives to be sure the future was ready and in-place for our mo- Flotsam & Jetsam 2 One of the victims’ many ment beneath the waves, and under the sun. Profiles– Klasita Emerenciana 5 wounds. Extensive stitching was Captain Don Stewart must have been quite a sight that May after- Soduko Puzzle 7 needed (right panel). H.Cox photo Bonairean Voices (Sports) 9 noon in 1962 when, with only 63 cents in his pocket and a sailboat Soduko Answer 9 under his feet, he made landfall on the island of Bonaire in the Did You Know (Iguanas) 10 The dogs’ owners agreed to Netherlands Antilles. Captain Don was headed for Antigua, but Picture Yourself (Cruising assume financial responsibility Antigua never got him, he was home.” Alaska, Chicago) 13 for the victims medical care and The pioneering spirit of Captain Don Stewart, is what inspired Classifieds 12 Bonaire’s dive industry. Over the last 45 years he has given Bon- Dining and Shopping Guide14 their dogs have been quaran- Tide Table 15 tined. The victims are recover- aire its scuba diving infrastructure, inspired its marine park, vital- Reporter Masthead 15 ing slowly as the dogs’ attack ized its tourism industry and devised means of preserving the What’s Happening 16 was traumatic, the wounds pain- The up-market Dutch health and beauty of Bonaire's underwater and above water envi- Sky Park (Occult) 17 ful and their injuries could have evening broadsheet, NRC ronment. The Stars have It 17 been fatal. Handelsblad, says that Hol- Island View (Holland) 19 What’s Coming Our Way There has been considerable land will inherit an unsafe report by Dutch civil servants fuel surcharge again, according (Bona Bista iIsland Estates) 19 commentary in the community airport when it takes ownership who said the runway asphalt to the airline’s Operational Di- about the enforcement of Bon- following Bonaire’s direct link paving was deteriorating, water rector Dutch ANP news service aire’s existing laws which re- with Holland at the end of this runoff was a problem in heavy reported. “The fuel surcharge is How to contact us quire dogs to be leashed when year. Bonaire officials say that rains, physical security was in- still based on an oil price of $90 Letters to the Editor: on the streets. In the past when is nonsense and the Flamingo adequate, and disaster plans did a barrel,” he said. Last Wednes- [email protected] troublesome dogs proved to be a Airport is safe and secure. It not meet international standards. day morning, the cost of a barrel Story tip or idea: [email protected] problem they were shot on the may not meet all Dutch stan- When Holland takes over they of crude oil was over $101, said spot by police. dards, but those are inappropri- Print and Online estimated they would have to ANP. In January, the airline Advertising: Animal lovers are upset by ate and unnecessary in Bonaire. pay would be €20 million to set raised the fuel surcharge to €88 [email protected] this approach and are appealing Around 2000 the Bonaire gov- things right. They question ($137) for intercontinental Archives: Bonairenews.com then click for dog licensing, more animal ernment took money from its whether KLM will have to con- flights, like AMS to BON, be- shelter space, and increased other municipal projects to ex- on “Go to Archives” tinue to stop in Bonaire since cause of higher jet fuel prices. The Publisher: education regarding animal care. tend the airport’s runway and new jets have longer range. The [email protected]

install a fueling facility, offer plan for KLM no longer plans to Bonaire’s reefs are The Bonaire Reporter, The Government (BC) cheap jet fuel and make other use Bonaire as a stopover on its among the best in the Carib- P. O. Box 407, Bonaire, wants the Central Govern- improvements in order to attract Panama service has been bean concluded a report cov- Neth. Antilles. ment in Curacao to take the KLM aircraft which had been Phone 790-8988 scrapped. ering four years of study. Dur- Phone 790-6518 same measures to minimize using Curacao and Aruba as The NRC story sparked of ing that time there was no de- Available on-line at: the effect of high fuel prices stopovers on flights to South sensationalism as it revived the cline in coral cover however the www.bonairereporter.com for Bonaireans as it did for America. They were successful allegations a bribe of €40,000 report voiced several concerns. Published every two weeks Next edition printing on April 2, 2008 the people of Curaçao. Bonaire and for a time Bonaire was one paid to local officials and Turn to page 12 for more details. spelled out what it wants in a of KLMs busiest overseas hubs. €680,000 in overcharges. Those A report from a US NASA letter to Prime Minister Emily It sparked the economic upturn charges were never proven. group came to the same conclu- de Jongh- Elhage. The Execu- that continues today on Bonaire. sion last month . tive Council wants to lower the The NRC story was based on a KLM may increase its (Continued on page 6)

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Page 2 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 USC Photo

om Reynolds loves scuba local diving buddy, Albert Bian- T diving Bonaire’s beautiful culli an idea took shape. If they reefs, and he wants to keep doing could find a substitute for the it. But he couldn’t help but no- expensive monitors and enough tice that in recent years they did- staff to run the project on Bon- n’t seem as healthy as they once aire and some money, then the were. The retired Pasadena Cali- science measurements could be fornia resident wondered what done. he could do to reverse the trend. The Bonaire National Marine The answer became clear Park was enthusiastic about the after he invited his best friend, plan and agreed to not only co- Dr. Burt Jones and his family to operate, but to post the results on join him, diving in Bonaire. Tom Reynolds the STINAPA website. Burt Jones is a towering figure The secret to cutting the cost of in oceanographic research, spe- includes both fixed sites and the project is a microchip sensor cializing in near coastal condi- autonomous vehicles. originally developed to track tions. A Research Associate These projects usually have fish. With the addition of color Professor in the Marine Environ- million dollar budgets. The filters it could be adapted to mental Biology section of the money is well spent because it monitor light and temperature. Biology Department at the Uni- provides the scientific evidence The light data the sensor records, versity of Southern California, in deciding how to correct prob- following extensive data reduc- his research interests include bio lems affecting ocean water qual- tion and analysis, could be used -optical oceanography, physical- ity. to measure the clarity and the biological interactions, coastal Tom Reynolds and Dr. Jones amount of organic material in the processes, and coastal ocean reasoned that if they could sup- water. observing systems. He has been ply Bonaire with similar scien- Following a successful pilot involved in studying the dynam- tific data addressing the potential test of a sensor array at jerry’s ics of physical/bio-optical inter- decline of Bonaire reefs it would Reef at Klein Bonaire in August Dr. Burt Jones with one of the instruments he usually uses. actions in a variety of environ- influence the Bonairean govern- 2007 the Light and Motion Sen- The sensors used in Bonaire are about the size of a pack of ments that include coastal Cali- ment to take appropriate action. sor (LMSP) program was fornia, the Arabian Sea, Japan/ One thing stood in their way. launched. more. Bonaire’s LMSP sensors who do those tasks. These so East Sea, and the Adriatic . Re- Lack of money. The big money The sensors, in sets of three, lack the automated cleaning and called “Rainbow Arrays” were cently, he’s done research in that paid for the expensive moni- set at three different depth cost remote data readout of the ex- deployed in 13 locations from harmful algal bloom monitoring. toring equipment and staff just about $55 each. Commercial pensive units. As a result the WEB to the White Slave huts Dr. Jones has been involved in a wasn’t available on our island. units performing the same func- LMSP sensors get visited at least and through this February re- coastal observing activities that However, together with their tion cost as much as 300 times once a week by volunteer divers (Continued on page 12)

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 3

t is a malady that strikes thousands of I Europeans every year. S.A.D., or Sea- Are there things I was glad to get away sonal Affective Disorder, is the curse that from? A few: drives sufferers either to the doctor’s sur- Mosquitoes for one! I was obviously gery or to the travel agent’s door. Either born to be a packed lunch for them. I path is a temporary fix, and even the 12 x smothered myself in Osi, Autan, Cutter 12 inch light box (that some entrepreneur and Curaloe. I spread it on like butter has patented and sells for around $500) and watched the mozzies sit in the middle offers little respite from the gloom that of it, almost sliding off, but somehow that arrives with the interminable grey skies proboscis found a way through and deliv- of a European November. Living with a ered its load of histamine, in exchange for sufferer is a long-term nightmare and a slurp of my blood. I would have been should be placed on the statute books as a happy to transfuse a pint into a bag, tape reason for divorce - alongside mental it round my leg like a catheter bag and cruelty, unfaithfulness and irretrievable hang a little notice on it saying, breakdown. “Mosquitoes welcome.” Shopping for foodstuff was a real bun The best solution is to pack your suit- fight (if you will excuse the pun). Trans- Karpata: One of the reasons tourists come to Bonaire case as soon the shops unpack the Christ- port is essential, as you need to travel mas . Ideally you should make sure you between all three main supermarkets in are standing in an airport terminal by the search of what is never on the shelves. ing in some way, as conversation is car- blindingly white socks and shiny trainers, 1st of December. You also need to be adaptable and imagi- ried out at decibel levels normally saved floppy straw hats drawn tightly down The older you get, the easier it be- native, as the vital ingredient for your for when your dog is half a mile away over wizened faces. Two hours later, the comes. Your children are off hand and intended meal is often sitting in a con- chasing goats. There seems to be an in- whole caboodle shuffle out to the waiting pleased to have their Christmas free of tainer waiting for the cruise ships to clear nate fear that they might lose each other, transport, back to safety and afternoon parents and in laws. Your own parents the docks. as they line up the sun beds a regulation tea. have either shuffled off this mortal coil or six inches apart. Then they flip-flop their However, I do miss the friendliness of are ga-ga in the local nursing home and Speaking of cruise ships…. Well, way down to the water and for 10 sec- the people on Bonaire, the climate, the happy to gum-chew the plate of gristly there’s another thing I don’t miss. You onds there is perfect peace. But hey, it’s scenery, the sea, the casual dress, sun- turkey and rock hard roast potatoes. You can be having a nice peaceful read or a only right that they want to share their downers, and most of all - my brother and won’t have to attend the drinks parties quiet lunchtime beer, when these blocks experience. The whole beach needs to his partner who have made the island with the neighbors who ignore your exis- of flats disgorge their contents. They know. “Guys – have you seen this? their home. tence for the other 364 days of the year. don’t come in twos and threes, they come You just godda see this.”“Gee man, this From 2004 we said “Bah Humbug” to in 10s and 20s, garish floral shorts burst- is awesome… awesome.” You have a little piece of paradise – Christmas. We packed a soft bag, and ing at the seams, bellies bursting with the Some look as though they have been take care of it.„ Penny Davison caught a plane to anywhere that offered all inclusive food and beverage. You can dug up and are there just to make up the cheap flights and warmth. Goa, Thailand only deduce that the thrum of the engine numbers. They sit under the shade of the and Cuba did the trick for four years, then or the cabin airco has impaired their hear- palm trees, white legs stoppered with it all went wrong. On the way back from Cuba in 2006 we made a convoluted de- tour – via Venezuela and Curaçao – to the island of Bonaire. We stayed for nine days – not long enough to explore the kunuku, not long enough to snorkel every beach, – but certainly long enough to fall in love with Bonaire. The seed was sown! Most women are good mental gardeners, and I am no ex- ception. What can I say about this little island? I have sat on the wooden deck of a house in the mondi, under a canopy of •Transport of Money •Vehicle patrols stars, and eaten food cooked on an open Bonaire’s Finest Facility for fire sunk in the deck’s centre. I have Physiotherapy and Fitness and Valuables •Burglar Alarms been shown hospitality that puts us to We Care For the People on Bonaire •Private Investigations •Fire Alarm Systems shame back home in England. SPECIALITIES I have eaten the best Chinese food ever: Kaya Nikiboko Nord 37A, PO Box 225 Tel: (599) 717- 8125 a full-blown meal for less than you would  Direct postoperative care  Stroke and other neurological Fax (599) 717- 6125 E-mail [email protected] pay for a plate of prawn crackers in Lon- illnesses don’s Chinatown, though I have to say  Developmental therapy for that the EU regulations now in force back children home would have the door firmly locked  Care after amputation and prosthesiology and barred, and a team of rat-catchers  Relaxation techniques Unique Gifts for you and yours… doing their stuff.  Pulmonary therapy I have walked the hills round Lagoen at  Medical fitness & sport guidance dusk, and been brought to tears by the  Diabetes care  Heart-rehabilitation Books and magazines for a breezy afternoon stunning beauty of the red earth and the  Lymph therapy majestic cacti. I have done all the tourist read… chocolates and candies for the sweetest things and loved them all: bumping down ight the pitted roads of Washington Park, ly- ups for we Now! Gro ing on a sun bed at Sorobon and watching Starting d of teeth… toys for tots of all ages... loss an the windsurfers scream over the turquoise k pain ic low bac waters, sitting back with a glass of wine chron on an idyllic sunset sail on Mushi Mushi, VALERIE’S AIRPORT SHOPS Kaya Grandi 67 gorging myself on a delicious meal of Open Monday-Friday 7.00-12.00 and Airport Shopping,.... "Localized" goat meat at the Rose Inn in Rincon, and 13.30 -21.00 (Fridays close at 18.00) EN swimming and snorkeling from every OP Saturday from 9.00 -12.00 TE! Phone 717-5324/ beach we could find. LA Fax 717-5610 Phone 717-7030/7850 Fax 717-2444

Page 4 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 lasita Emerenciana was While she is talking I am struck She is much happier now, doing K born on Bonaire 75 years by the happiness she radiates. the work she loves. Much of her ago. After she finished school Her eyes are expressing her joy creative work she can do at the she left for Aruba, spent some and her zest for life. She looks 20-member Nort Nikiboko time there but returned to her wonderful in her traditional Bo- Womens Club. Twice a month dushi Bonaire. nairean dress and headdress, a they have bolas games at the Klasita was one of the first beautiful and colorful representa- ballpark. The club competes on participants in the crafts market tion of Bonaire. Bonaire and international com- at Wilhelmina Park which was Klasita is proud of her booth petitions on Curacao, Aruba and set up some 10 years ago.” It was where she sells mainly her own Venezuela. Klasita trains every very different then,” she says. creations. She enhances pieces of week to keep herself in condition “Our booths were made of palm driftwood (which she finds and and practice her technique, and it leaves, and we could use the gathers herself on the beaches) shows! She’s been doing this for booth only from October to by making them into colorful over 15 years. April, during the cruise ship sea- souvenirs of Bonaire, decorated On a market day Klasita arrives son. In those days mainly local with boats, waves and blue Bo- early with all her articles, the people participated and only a nairean skies. She also displays wrapped up booth and foldable few non-locals. It was SKAL her plaster-of-Paris creations and tables in her car. She never has (the Culture Department) that set ceramics. She learned these to set up the booth by herself; it up.” She recalled, crafts at the Instituto Venezue- her colleagues are always there Klasita Emerenciana “Unfortunately one morning lano on Bonaire. “I love to be to help. “We all help each other,” when we arrived at Wilhelmina creative,” she says, “and since she says. “T hat’s what I like she was very good with figures.” market. It’s definitely a joy to Park we found that all of our the Instituto taught me how to about being here. Another thing I Klasita had two brothers. One talk to her. palm booths were burned to the use different materials I can do like very much is talking with died on Aruba, the other on Bon- A tourist couple stops at her ground. Some youngsters had set something creatively. Selling my the tourists. They ask me many aire about four years ago while stall and they express their them afire the previous night. I things to tourists is like a crown things about Bonaire, about the out at sea in his fishing boat with amazement that this market is so have to admit” says Klasita,” that on my work.” From the money government building and why it his son. She is grateful to have a different from the ones on the Selibon did such a splendid job she earns, Klasita can buy new is built as a regular house. They nephew left here on Bonaire, and other islands they visited. “This cleaning the debris that Wilhel- materials like the paint, the plas- ask me about the building oppo- there are always the grandchil- market really has quality stuff, mina Park came out much ter for casting and the materials site my booth (the former doctor/ dren of her women friends whom no cheap tourist junk. There are cleaner than before! In order to for making her ceramics. Her dentist office), and I tell them she sees and visits regularly. more arts and crafts here than in continue our market, we had to technical skills are needed as that when my mother grew up, it She hopes to be part of the the other places.” try to find a place under one of well, when she attaches metal served as a school. My mother market for many years to come. I do believe Bonaire can be the trees just to be in the shade chains to her driftwood pieces. went there when she was young. “I am so happy to be here,” she proud of its market, of the par- while selling our goods! But Before the market existed, she That was over 100 years ago. At says. “I love what I am doing ticipants and the beautiful arts there weren’t enough trees for all worked making uniforms in the that time the kids only went to and I love the contacts with the and crafts that are being made on of us, and this made spending a Cambes factory on Bonaire that school until the age of 10. Still people.” Be sure to pass Kla- the island. „ Story and Photo by day on the market a bit hard.” closed down some 18 years ago. my mother could write, read and sita’s booth when you visit the Louise Rood

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 5 Flotsam and Jetsam (Cont. from pg 2) It turned out that a high- voltage switch in the power Bonaire may be in need plant was defective. All of the “protection” that a law neighborhoods were connected being considered in The Neth- again around 2 pm. WEB said erlands to control the move- that there will be some repair ment of Antillean people may work in the coming days and provide. that the power will be have to be Once Bonaire becomes part of cut now and then. However, the Netherlands one would ex- advance notice will be given. pect that education, medical care and social benefits would im- The Miami-based Marine prove and outstrip similar bene- Safety Group has called upon fits on nearby islands. Then a the Bahamas government to flow of people from Curacao, ban shark-feeding tours in the similar to the flow from Holland wake of a recent death. An Aus- in recent years for better social trian diver was bitten by a shark security should be anticipated. while diving in Bahamian wa- The new kingdom law should ters that had been baited with Bellafonte Bonaire Apartments by default provide Bonaire with bloody fish parts; he later died Caribbean Homes Photo the same protections as Euro- from his wounds. pean Dutch. he Caribbean, including Bonaire, has the Netherlands Antilles from a non-resident are Several hundred years T been getting more affordable. The Global subject to a special conversion tax, at a flat rate of The island continues to ago, the Property Guide says the depreciation of the US 8%. Resident individuals are taxed on their world- experience power blackouts. coral reefs dollar against major currencies such as the Brit- wide income. According to a WEB (power of the Car- ish pound and the euro makes Caribbean proper- Buying Costs are moderate in Bonaire. Round company) release, a problem in ibbean had ties more attractive than they once were: more -trip transaction costs- the total cost of buying and the distribution system caused up to six affordable, but still not cheap! selling a property- are around 9.2% to 14.4% of the automatic protection system times more Property prices in more popular and developed the property's value. The buyer usually pays the to disconnect the Hato power fish than Monk Seal islands can easily reach over $l million for a 4% transfer tax, and the registration costs of 1% to plant around 8:30 am last they have place near the water. 2%. The seller pays the agent’s commission, Wednesday morning. The entire today, according to a study pub- In its March 2008 survey of Caribbean property which can be in the area of 4%. island was without power. lished Wednesday. The estimate prices the Guide finds that in Bermuda foreign- While Netherlands Antilles' law is pro-tenant in The power first went out in the is made by US scientists poring ers must pay an average of around $1.5 million practice, rents and rent increases can be freely north of the island. The techni- over the fate of the Caribbean for a three-bedroom house and lot. It reported negotiated. Long-term rental agreements usually cians at WEB couldn’t find the monk seal, a fish-loving mam- that the average price of a three-bedroom house cover one year, with automatic renewal after the problem at first and tried to get mal driven to extinction in 1952. in Curaçao and Bonaire is around $525,000; first year. While non-payment of rent and breach- the system operational Historical records from the while a four-bedroom house is $640,000. A two- ing the terms of the rental agreement are grounds again. While they were doing 17th and 18th century show bedroom apartment can be had for around for eviction, evicting local tenants can take a long that another problem popped up there were huge numbers of $295,000. Properties in Curaçao and Bonaire are time. „Global Property Guide/G.D. and caused a total blackout. (Continued on page 7) significantly cheaper compared to the rest of the Caribbean but slightly higher than in Aruba. The ABC Islands lie outside the Hurricane Belt, an added attraction for buyers, and there are no restrictions on foreigners buying property. For Bonaire the upcoming direct affiliation with Holland is a plus for buyers. Property prices in highly-developed areas such as Bermuda and the Bahamas exceed US$7,000 ! per sq. m. Coastal properties in Barbados are NOW also expensive, at around US$6,700 per sq. m. In igital D g From Bonaire Nautico Marina the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the US Vir- essin gin Islands (USVI), real estate prices are around Proc US$5,000 per sq. m. Sint Maarten also has ex- pensive properties at around US$5,300 per sq. m. Property prices in St. Kitts and Nevis, Puerto Rico, Martinique, St. Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda range from US$3,170 per sq. m. to TRIPS US$4,500 per sq. m. Every For apartment buyers, Bermuda and the Turks Day and Caicos Islands are among the most expen- THE ONLY sive with prices at around US$5,000 to WALKON / WALKOFF US$8,000 per sq. m. A two-bedroom apartment Catamaran Kantika di Amor costs around US$841,000. Despite these high prices, Caribbean properties FULL DIGITAL SERVICES NO CLIMBING! are still considerably cheaper than coastal prop- FUJI MINI-LAB Trips daily via resorts at 10 am, 12, 2 pm Except Sunday at 10 am only erties in Mediterranean Europe. For instance, KODAK & FUJI FILM apartment prices in Barcelona are around SLIDES US$10,000 per sq. m., more than twice the price E-6 PROCESSING of apartments in the Bahamas or Cayman Is- PASSPORT PHOTOS lands. The ABC islands, and especially Bonaire, BATTERIES should continue to flourish. CAMERAS Water/115/220V & Cable TV Bonaire buyers should consider the following FRAMES Dinghy tie-up at north-inside dock US$10 weekly from Saturday to factors: PHOTO ALBUMS GREETING CARDS Saturday. Pay at Kantika di Amor Rental Income: Non-resident’s rental income water taxi daily 10 am, 12, 2 pm. exceeding NAf 23.950 (US$13,456) is taxed at DIGITAL AND MORE... Sundays 10 am only. progressive rates from 11% to 39%, depending Your boat name will be recorded. on the tax base. Additionally, a surtax is applied Les Galeries Shopping Center on the income tax, 25% in Bonaire. There are no (Bordering the parking lot) BONAIRE NAUTICO MARINA Tel. 717-5890 At It Rains Fishes Restaurant capital gains taxes. Call Henk at 560-7254 / Bob 786-5399 Open M-F 8:30-12, 2-6 pm, However, heirs inheriting property located in www.bonairenauticomarina /VHF 68 Sat. 9-12 [email protected]

Page 6 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Flotsam & Jetsam (Continued from pg. 6) Stinapa monk seals, distributed among 13 colonies Photo across the Caribbean. They were so plenti- ful that some ships' maps of the West Indies even noted particularly dense locations of seals.

After a year-long absence, the Bonaire International Fishing Tournament will be held this year from April 11th to 13th, one week after the In- ternational Fishing Tournament on Curaçao. This year the headquarters for the tournament will be at the Club Nautico pier opposite It Rains Last month three rangers from the Bonaire National Fishes Restaurant. Shore-side activities Marine Park, STINAPA, worked closely with their coun- such as special BBQs, live music, distribu- terparts from STENEPA in St Eustatius (Statia). Their tion of the prizes and a live performance by visit was the second ranger exchange scheme between the Foyan Boys band on Sunday afternoon Stinapa and Stenapa through to increase competence of park will take place in the parking lot of It Rains rangers, funded by the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance Fishes. (DCNA). Besides boats from Bonaire the organiz- The Bonaire rangers performed all the routine daily tasks uDoku means “the digits must remain single” in Japanese. ing committee also expects vessels from of the Marine Park, including mooring maintenance, patrols, To solve the puzzle, enter the numbers 1 through 9 to the Curaçao, Aruba and Venezuela. The grand yacht fee collection, diver supervision and fee checks, turtle- S in-water monitoring dives, Zeelandia beach cleanup, boat partially filled in puzzle without repeating a number in any row, prize will be a Toyota HiLux pickup if the column or 3 x 3 region. For a tutorial visit the web site www. Su- Antillean record of an 803 pound catch is maintenance, and snorkel club instruction for 8-10 year olds. They also worked with Statia rangers Walter Blair and doku shack. com. Answer on page 9. Supplied by Molly Bar- topped, and a Rolex watch is offered for a tikoski-Kearney (who has to solve all the puzzles first.) catch of 450 pounds or more. Nadio Spanner to install four new yacht moorings in Oran- This tournament is a “catch and release” jestad Bay. Dragonfly Kite Don’t miss the 30th Kontest tournament. There can be a minimum two Upon their departure, the rangers said they had learned a di Fli (kite contest) next Sunday at and a maximum of four fishermen on board. great deal in Statia and that they had found that the people the field behind Kooijmans. Every The start signal will be given each day at were very friendly and gentle. The Chief Ranger urged the year it’s a huge success. Families, 07:00 and the boats are expected back at Island Government that if they want to keep coral in good friends and all kinds of groups get more or less 16:00. The proceeds of the health, they need to enact more laws, such as banning spear together to built the most amazing tournament will go to a good cause. Fishing fishing, and also ensuring that there is more personnel work- kites, and often it takes a whole boats will be docked at Club Nautico and ing for the Marine Park. crowd to launch them. It’s a won- Harbour Village Marina as well as the derful, wholesome atmosphere. North and South piers of Kralendijk. For and musicians, followed by the main act of Bring chairs and tables, food and more information please contact Robur de Izaline Calister and her trio. We’ll have drink coolers and spend the day.„ Vries at 786-1070/516-1070 or e-mail at more information as the date gets closer. [email protected]/

Dr. Daniela Mald- ini, who is here this se- mester teaching Marine Conservation Biology at CIEE and specializes in marine mammals has established a dolphin research project focus- ing on the dolphins around Bonaire. If you would like to par- ticipate contact her at the CIEE, 717-4140. Keep an eye out for a wayward cat. Wanda is missing in Tera Cora/ There has been much Nikiboko. She broke out of a screened speculation on what cur- window at the vet's office Feb. 14 (near La rency Bonaire would use Portuguesa). She has a scar under her ear. once direct ties with Hol- She is a very timid/shy cat. Please call 786 land are established, the -3134 or 786-4538 if you see Wanda. US dollar or the euro. Now a new idea has been raised- The TCB is promoting several of keep the guilder. OBNA (Antilles Invest- Bonaire’s upcoming events on out ment Bank) Director Gomez Casseres while neighboring islands of Aruba and touching on various subjects, which in- Curacao. On April 3 they will be in Aruba cluded dismantling of the central govern- and the next day i Curacao. The delegation ment, and the future of SVB, APNA, the is made up of Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes Central Bank and the debt issue recom- TCB Director, a representative of the Open: mended a step-by-step approach. “The An- Bonaire Jazz Foundation, Elvis Martinus Mon-Fri: 8-6 tillean guilder should remain the currency of Aquaspeed Windsurfing and Bonaire Sat. 8am-1pm of the BES islands (Bonaire, St Eustatius Sailing Foundationwill be represented by NONSTOP and Saba) for another ten years,” he Byron Tromp and Edsel Pieter . said. The press conferences they will hold will focus on the Dia di Rincon, Bonaire The Bonaire Heineken Jazz Heineken Jazz Festival, Pro Kids iand Festival for 2008, will be held from May Bonaire International Sailing Regatta. 22 to 25. It promises to become another big success. The festival will be opened by Dear readers, remember to patronize the Lt. Governor on May 22 with a "Jazz the advertisers of The Bonaire Reporter and Poetry" presentation in Fort Oranje. and let them know you appreciate their The evening will start off with local poets support. They keep up “still Free.” „ G.D.

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 7 Ann Phelan photo

Veronica Zufelt photo

Veronica Zufelt photo

Elvis and the riders at the captain’s meeting hanks to a Caribbean-wide storm, the swell improved since last year’s event. Top gun Bjorn T last Saturday was enough to create a chal- Saragoza wowed the crowed with some slick lenging wave event a Lac Cai. The local contin- moves. gent of windsurf youth and pros and a few interna- There was a large spectator crowd on hand, a tional riders were on hand to compete in the an- mix of locals and tourists. During lunch everyone nual wave challenge. Italian rider Davide Giardini, enjoyed local food including fish and fungi and studying at CIEE, was on hand to compete. An creole style chicken. The mood was enhanced by impressive group of junior riders were eager to Antillean and Latin music and a festive vibe. The Thanks to the following sup- Antillean Wine Company, The sample the afternoon swell. Local pros, Taty awards ceremony was a fun time and the winners porters who provided prizes, Island Supplier, Divi Flamingo Frans, Kiri Thode and Tonky Frans, each per- revealed were: event support and cash: Fast Resort Bonaire, The Red Cross formed a set of freestyle wave feats including for- Juniors: 1. Bjorn Saragoza (Hot Sails/Starboard) Forward, Jibe City, Caribbean and Aquaspeed. „ ward loops, table tops and more. When they were 2. Hendrick Balentien (JP) Wind & Sun Vacations, Bonaire Ann Phelan Press PR up, the junior division dazzled the crowd in the big 3. Amado Vrieswjk (Hot Sails/Starboard) Windsurf Place, AB Car Rental, swells. Young Dylan Robles proved practice Pro: 1. Taty Frans (North/Starboard) 2. Kiri Thode (Gaastra/Starboard) Bonaire Seaside Apartments, makes perfect. His skill in the waves has vastly 3. Tonky Frans (Gaastra/F2)

Page 8 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 SPORTS lot of informa- have here in Bonaire some good people tion about how who really care about athletics on the is- “A sport field without players is not a to behave when land. Please, sports officials, get to these field; it’s a place abandoned to the Hawks they’re compet- people before is too late here on Bonaire and the Sparrows.” - old saying ing. There are a and give all Bonaireans the chance to lot of young grow in all kinds of sports activities.” ports are the physical activities that children walk- As many of us know this subject of S are governed by a set of rules or ing around who sports was the top issue discussed on the uniforms and often engaged in competi- are not so inter- radio and in the newspapers for the last tively. Bonaireans like sports. Besides ested in sports three months and it is a continuing issue. other games that are played, the most because they „ Siomara E. Albertus popular sports in Bonaire are soccer, soft- don’t have ball, windsurfing, judo and baseball. In enough infor- mation about Send your com- the past they played “korfball.” It’s like ments to The Bonaire basketball but with three divisions in an them. They Reporter, P.O. Box organized group. may think that Sports Commissioner el Hage at the opening of the soccer sea- 407, Bonaire, or playing on an email re- But if we sit and think for a moment we son game between ATC and Vitesse porter@bonairenews. might ask ourselves what is going in organized team com . sports nowadays and why are people com- is just something to pass the time and they Don’t let prejudice and arrogance turn our plaining about how sporting activities are don’t see any need to help make the team sports into a war zone just because of our move forward and be a better one. Sports own misunderstanding. We can’t be so being managed here in Bonaire in the 21st SOLUTION TO DO YOU century? officials need to see how important each selfish because we are not only harming SUDOKU? A very active and fit lady used to sport is here on Bonaire and help our ourselves but also the younger generation played korfball and soccer in the past. youngsters keep out of trouble by taking that is learning from us grown ups. We Now, at 69 years old, she says, “I loved sports seriously. Of course discipline goes want to stop the crime, the drug abuse, the Puzzle on page 7 sports and still love them. In the past, along with it. Let’s do this to make Bo- alcohol abuse, the peer pressure among when I was a young girl we didn’t have nairean sports grow.” youths if we could, but how we are going much recreation besides our duties in Another lady (47) who has been in to do that if we take sports for granted? school, going to church and helping at sports most her life, said, “In the past Stop fighting and start thinking wisely. home. We made sports our recreation. At teams liked to stick together and every- What can we do for our team(s) and for first it was for fun, but then we organized body worked to help the team grow and our self as a member of a team or teams a sport club for all young men and become successful. For the last few years (some people participate in more than one women. We were very disciplined. First the energetic team spirit and will to win sport)? Sports are as much a part of our we had to do our school work, help at have been drifting away. We have to sit culture as whatever else we might practice home and then get on the field. Our main down and see what the cause of all this is. here on Bonaire, be it music or art. Some goal for the teams was to get better and It could be different problems: the fields, people like me start feeling the bitterness become winners. Nowadays the teams are the high cost of living, the sports officials, of being an athlete, and I know that’s a not happy with each other and they lack a the politicians, the government or us. wrong feeling, but that is the reality. We

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Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 9

Did You Know... hat onaire is full of T the B surprises as Lee Green Scruggs, who took these Iguana photos discovered. found on A walk along the scenic Bonaire has road, called the tourist the easiest road by locals, on the scientific west side of the island name to offers some lovely pano- remember ramas with steep cliffs on the and crystal seas. planet? But there are several While most artworks there too. scientific Just along the roadside, names are using your imagination, confusing Iguanas at leisure you can find Snoopy, the and you dog, a wooden flamingo have no and a small green subma- idea what they mean, this animal’s name is simply, Iguana iguana! Why can’t all rine. species’ names be this easy? This herbivorous reptile can grow old enough to reach a Take a ride or a walk length of two meters and is native to South and Central America. It is often found along the tourist road close to water, which provides an easy escape route from predators such as birds. and see if you can find Be careful where you step. If you are walking down a path you may accidentally them. stumble upon an iguana warming its body against the rocks. They blend in so well to their environment, with their typical green to grayish colored bodies, that you might Along the east, wind- not notice one unless it moves! n Brian Recken- ward, side of Bonaire, beil along the coast, are drift- wood constructions that Brian Reckenbeil is a Biology major from Mo- come and go. Some say ravian College in Bethlehem Pennsylvania. He is rd they are the result of in his 3 year of college, and the kicker on the wave-tossed driftwood football team He played lacrosse at college for randomly coming to- the first two years, but is now studying Tropical gether. Others say there’s Marine Ecology and Conservation in Bonaire this a mystery sculptor roam- semester at the CIEE Research Station Bonaire. ing the beaches. Check it out. „ G.D.

Page 10 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 lthough the sixth Special Olympics Walkathon was held a month later than usual, it didn’t escape getting rained on… but just a bit; nothing like past years when A the walkers all got soaked. On Sunday, March 30, starting at the slave huts at 5 am, the participants set out on the 30-kilometer route that followed the salt slaves journey to Rincon and back each week. Entrants walked, bike and even roller bladed. There were eight water stops manned by kind people who gave ourt water, Gatorade, fruit, pan dushi (sweet bread) and lots of encouragement. One of the most popular water stops is at Karpata, organized by the Bonaire Bikers Club. Which offered a full (free) bar menu to fuel the walkers for the steep trek to Alta Mira before the slope down to the finish line at the Pasadia di Karino in Rincon . 556 tickets at NAƒ 25 were sold for the event. Here are a few photos from the day.„ G.D.

Tabulating the finishers at the PasaDia

First runner to finish: Nazario Alberto (of course).

Teenage bicycle riders recharging with juice.

De agony of de feet. If you couldn’t come to the toilet, the toilet came to you.

The Friendliest Restaurant on Bonaire.

In Bonaire’s “hill country” 10 minutes north of town

Every Tuesday an all you can eat BBQ SOB Board Director, Claire Seely, re- Kaya A. for $15.—. stocks the pan dishi. Emerenciana 4D Next to China Nobo On Friday Creole buffet for $15.—.

Mega Garden Center Open • Garden Design All other nights a la carte every Weekday Construction dining Also Open Saturdays 9 to 1 Maintenance • Garden Shop Daily Happy Hour from Irrigation needs 5pm till 6pm Fertilizers And on Tuesday a special Mulch from 5pm till 7pm Insecticides Ant killer Herbs Holiday gifts Hilltop Restaurant at Caribbean Club Bonaire At the start of the scenic Choose from 460 different types of plants road to Rincon.

Kaya Industria, Behind TIS E-mail: Tel 717-7901 717-8310, 566-6033, Fax 717-3720 [email protected]

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 11 Bonaire Reporter Classifieds— Are still free Got something to buy or sell?

Non-Business Classified Ads (up to 4 lines/ 20± words): he report on the status of Bonaire’s coral reefs based on monitoring conducted Free ads run up to one month. T from 2003 – 2007 by Robert S. Steneck and Suzanne Arnold from the University of Maine and Dr. Peter from the University of Exeter, School of BioSciences, on our Commercial Ads only NAƒ1 per word, for each two-week issue. Call 790-6518 or 790-6125 or email [email protected] coral reefs concluded that Bonaire’s reefs remain among the best in the Caribbean. However, the monitoring revealed some potentially troubling trends that may require management action. The results were presented at Captain Don’s Habitat last week and JANART GALLERY Want to build or mod- are available on line on the STINAPA website at http://www.stinapa.org/pdfs/Bonaire- Kaya Gloria 7, Bonaire Local Art, Art ernize? Work with a seri- Supplies, Framing, and Art Classes. Report-2007-Bob-Steneck-etc.pdf ous professional with ex- The report said Bonaire’s reefs have not declined since the study began having es- Open Tu.-We.-Th. & Sat 10 am- 5 pm Fri- perience, a good organi- day 1- 7 pm; or phone 717-5246 for appt. caped the effects of an algae takeover that occurred on most Caribbean reefs since the zation providing quick 1980s when disease wiped out 97% of the black long-spined sea urchins that eat algae. delivery and quality. Try us: “We see three troubling trends of increased (macro)algae, declining grazing of algae IS YOUR HOUSE NEW TO YOU? Quality On Time Construction NV. by parrotfish, and increases in damselfish populations,” the report went on. “Of these, Make it more livable from the start. We can do foundations, concrete, the first two are most serious. Secondary trends of concern are increases in damselfish FENG SHUI CONSULTATIONS plaster, brick, carpentry and more. populations and declines in coralline algae (from 20% to 4%) which could lead to re- Also interior or exterior design advice, Phone 796-6550 duced recruitment of reef corals but to date this is not evident. Importantly, live coral clearings, blessings, energy, healing, ______cover remains relatively high (47%) . The monitored group of carnivorous fishes, the China-trained. Experienced. Inexpensive. CONETAL CLEANING lutjanid snappers, are holding constant but we remain concerned about the past the con- Call Donna at 785-9332. SERVICE- NEW ON BON- tinued loss of other larger bodied reef carnivores such as groupers and barracuda. AIRE for HOTELS - BONAIRENET Macroalgae abundance on Bonaire’s coral reefs in 2007 was significantly greater than HOMES –APARTMENTS – it had been in 2003 and 2005 (Figure 1). At the same time, parrotfish biomass on Bon- The leading consumer and business in- OFFICES formation source on Bonaire. Telephone aire’s coral reefs has declined for unknown reasons, perhaps fishing.” Services : check out, deep The survey which was completed last year did not comment on the recent acceleration (599) 717-7160. For on-line yellow pages clean, retouch, ironing, washing, directory information go to http:// of algae growth at some sites on the reef. „ G.D. www.yellowpagesbonaire.com garden cleaning, landscaping FLEXIBLE SERVICE, QUALITY Clear Water (Continued from page 3) flow of data will become a torrent. CLEANING, EXPERIENCED CLEANERS Call: 796-6550 corded water conditions every eight min- This is very ambitious project without a CAPT. DON’S ISLAND GROWER utes. Millions of bits of data were re- doubt, unique on the planet. More data Trees and plants, Bonaire grown. ______2 corded. will be gathered in a single day by Bon- 8000m nursery. Specializing in garden/ '96 Nissan 4 DR wagon, 110,000 septic pumps and irrigation. Kaminda La- km. 4cylinder automatic. Asking 5000 Ito ensure that the LMSP sensors were aire’s LMSP sensors than for NASA’s goen 103, Island Growers NV (Capt. Don NAƑ or best offer. Call Mike eve- accurately calibrated in February Tom entire moon mission. Further, there is & Janet). 786-0956 ning at 788-0384 Reynolds traveled to Bonaire with the global interest in this project. Dr. Jones ______“expensive gear” on loan from USC. We and Mr. Reynolds have received inquires

BOXES FOR SALE Moving or can report they passed the test and the first from all around the world and will present Bonaire Images results were published in the last issue of the program at the Coral Reef Symposium Elegant greeting cards and beautiful Storage Strong Heavy Duty Boxes & The Reporter. in July. boxed note cards are now available at Chat Bubble Wrap Size 24”x20”x14” 4. -N-Browse next to Lover’s Ice Cream and NAƑ each or 10 Boxes for NAƑ 30, Currently, LMSP sensors are being re- Additional funds from private, corporate Sand Dollar Grocery. Photography by CALL. 717-7004 programmed to record data at one minute and government donors will be need to run Shelly Craig www.bonaireimages.com ______intervals, multiplying the data and the task the project for its 10-year life through the For Rent: Apartment, one person, of analyzing it, but making it easier to installation of the waterfront wastewater Searching For GOOD NAƒ. 500,=. Send an email to digital- calibrate LMSP sensors with the system. Maid Service? [email protected] “expensive gear.” The data analysis was being done by Dr For Quality House Cleaning ______Tom says, “Global conditions notwith- Jones and it was hoped that USC graduate CALL JRA Spacious House near sea/ standing, the land is a significant source of students could take it over. However, it is Serving Bonaire for more than 14 years boulevard for Sale. 4 bedroom, 2 the reef’s problems. When we report the turning out to be so formidable a task that Honest, Reliable, Efficient, Thorough, results of our work we give the population specialists may have to be employed. Low rates, References. One time or many baths, spacious living room, kitchen and laundry-room. Info: 785-7634 or and government the ability to determine Published LMSP information can even Phone 785-9041 … and relax. the quality of their water. The LMSP will help divers contemplating a trip to Bon- [email protected] localize where the situations (affecting the aire. They will be able to see for them- LUNCH TO GO ______Starting from NAƒ5 per meal. Call WANTED: Hair Affair is looking water quality) may exist. Once located, selves which resorts have the clearest wa- CHINA NOBO 717-8981. for an experienced hairdresser who other instruments will be able to pinpoint ter which implies the best reefs. WEB-www.chinanobobonaire.com can work independently. Also look- the source of the problem. Even now we Tom Reynolds concludes, “Hard science ing for someone to do the little things can compare the clarity of the water be- must precede informed political action. around , what has to be done in the tween the Andreas and White Slave. As Having the data protects us from doing the SUPPORT BONAIRE salon, answering the phone and pre- we process the data, we will know which wrong thing. Critically, we must do the The Island you love could use your help! paring coffee.. locations have the clearest water.” right thing. What the ocean could tolerate Support Bonaire, Inc. provides support to Please cal 717-5990 or e- mail to It is up to STINAPA to publish results in the past is not true today. After all it’s Bonaire's non-profits. To learn more about [email protected] on their website and to take remedial ac- not our father’s ocean anymore.”„ G.D. making a US tax deductible donation visit tion if necessary. www.supportbonaire.org and help make a ______2 Up until now everyone working on the Money is needed to continue this project. Do- difference! For rent apartment. at Hato. 32m project have been volunteers. However, nations accepted by Support Bonaire (US tax from April, 2 persons max, 2 bed- with the plans to increase the number of deductible)/ or the SEA MONITOR Founda- Are you interested rooms, bathroom, linen, 2 beds, clos- sensors, set more around Klein Bonaire, tion accounts: Maduro & Curiel's Bank in Dutch conver- ets, kitchen with equipment, fans, (Bonaire) USD Account # 116.735.09 sation lessons? porch, Min. 2 month stay. NAƒ 800,-- add fluorometer instruments and increase the sampling interval by eight times, the NA Account # 116.736.07 For information excl. WEB, incl internet. No pets. SWIFT TRANSFER: MCBKANCUBON please call: Tel.717-2529 /796-2529. 786-2499 Looking for mattresses size-1- persons, 1-persons beds. Tel. 717- Home Inspections 2529. Private yoga classes, ______call Louise 717- 7021 Know what you’re buying Looking for a 3-4 bedroom house or 700-9422. to rent max rental price is about NAƒ 2000=. to NAƒ 2500=. Kindly call Over 25 years building 786 1592. experience

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Page 12 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 arol Dornbush was C awarded her gold Bonaire Ambassador’s medal from TCB’s Rolando Marin last week. She writes about her Bon- aire experiences: From the moment my husband, Al, and I set foot on Bonaire 26 years ago we knew we had found a very special place. We were so enchanted with the island that in a short time we bought a first and then a second timeshare at Divi Flamingo Beach Re- sort. We formed wonderful friendships there that would bring us back year after year for two weeks (and sometimes three) each January. As soon as we one Perhay writes, “ When I returned arrived we would stock up ruise ships are in the minds of lots of people on groceries from Culti- on Bonaire, but perhaps not in the same I home after a ninth Christmas in beautiful C Bonaire I discovered that one of your flamin- mara and bread from Exito. November 30. Although sad- way they are for Walt and Lyn Bentsen, who live Then we would enjoy diving dened by the loss of my beloved in Belnem. They recently took a cruise/tour to goes followed me! So, after teaching him how to make a snow angel we both posed and snorkeling each day, sharing husband, I was comforted by our Alaska. They wrote, “We took The Reporter with a few Amstels with our friends extended Bonaire family and us so we could look at the pictures of home to help with The Reporter We'll see you again in De- cember, 2008.” „ at green flash, and savoring deli- treasured Bonaire memories. I keep us warm.” „ cious dinners and ocean breezes knew then that I would always at night. want to come home to the peo- WIN GREAT PRIZES! Take a copy of The Bonaire Reporter with you on your next trip or when I traveled alone when I re- ple and places of Bonaire. „ you return to your home. Then take a photo of yourself with the newspaper in hand. THE BEST turned to Bonaire this past Janu- TCB Release and photo PHOTOS OF THE YEAR WILL WIN THE PRIZES. Mail photos to Bonaire Reporter, Box 407, ary because Al passed away on Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles (AN). E-mail to: [email protected].

Outlet Mol is Bonaire's Retail Swimwear shop offering hundreds of bikinis and boardshorts for men and women. Mix and match swim tops and bottoms, colors and sizes. Bikinis: NAf 70 /$40

Located on Kaya Grandi On the second floor over Botica Bonaire Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10-1, 3-6; Sat 10-12

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 13 RESTAURANT PRICE RANGE / WHEN OPEN FEATURES Balashi Beach Bar Open every day On the beach Bar and Beach Service 8am - 8pm. Extensive snack/salad/burger menu At the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort Waterfront Happy Hour, two for one, 6-7 pm. available daily from noon. Bella Vista Restaurant, Buddy’s Pool Bar Moderate. Breakfast daily 6:30—10 am - Buddy’s Magnificent Theme Nights: Sat. - Steak Night; Mon. - “Dive and Sea Side at Buddy Dive Resort . Lunch daily 11:30 Dine;” Wed. -”Live Cooking by the Chefs;” Fri. - Free Rum Punch Party (5:30- 717-5080, ext. 538 Dinner on theme nights 6—10 pm 6:30 pm) and All-u-can-eat BBQ for $19.50 (7-10 pm) Bistro de Paris Moderate Real French Cooking in an informal setting Kaya Gob. N. Debrot 46 Lunch Monday - Friday 11 am–3 pm Superb dishes prepared with care and love by a French chef (half-way between hotel row and town) 717-7070 Dinner Monday - Saturday, 6 to 10 pm Owner-operated Eat in or Take away Calabas Restaurant & Chibi Chibi Restaurant and Bar Moderate Biggest BBQ Buffet on Bonaire every Saturday At the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort Waterfront Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner from 6-9pm. Only NAƒ 28,50 or $16. 717-8285 Open 7 days Casablanca Argentinean Restaurant Moderate Indulge your whim—beef seafood, chicken, vegetarian One block south of the Post Office Lunch Tues-Sat—11:30-2:30 Mondays—All you can eat and special slide shows starting at 6 pm 717-4433 Dinner 7 nights— starting at 6 pm Great value anytime. Hilltop Restaurant Moderate Bar-Restaurant poolside —in Bonaire’s hill country At the Caribbean Club Bonaire—on the scenic Rincon Road Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Frequent Dinner Specials 717-7901 Happy hours 5 to 6 daily, to 7 on Tuesday BBQ night. Pasa Bon Pizza Bonaire’s best. The Real Thing! Freshly prepared pizzas made with the On Kaya Gob. Debrot Low-Moderate finest ingredients. Salads, desserts. Eat in or take away. Nice bar too. ½ mile north of town center. 780-1111 Open from 5-11 pm Wednesday-Sunday Call ahead to eat-in or take out 780-1111

AIRLINES FITNESS Divi Divi Air. Bonaire’s “on time airline” with 16 flights a Fit For Life at the Plaza Resort Mall. Classes in Pilates, RESORTS & ACTIVITIES day between Bonaire and Curaçao. Your first choice for Aerobics, TaeBo and more. Professional trainers, fitness Buddy Dive Resort offers diving, Adventure Fun tours inter-island travel. Now flying to Aruba. machines and classes for all levels. including kayaking, mountain biking, cave snorkeling and exploration. Full service dive shop and photo shop too. APPLIANCES /TV/ ELECTRONICS/ COMPUTERS FURNITURE, ANTIQUES City Shop, the mega store, has the island’s widest selec- Interiyours— New name, same owner and location. Has RETAIL tion of large and small home appliances, furniture, TV, lots of beautiful, often one-of-a-kind furniture, antiques, Benetton, world famous designer clothes available now in computers, cell phones and more. Fast service and in-store crafts and accessories from mainland China and Indonesia. Bonaire at prices less than those in US. For men, women financing too. and children. GARDEN SUPPLIES AND SERVICES BANKS Green Label has everything you need to start or maintain Best Buddies and Pearls—Stunning fresh water pearl Maduro and Curiel’s Bank provides the greatest number your garden. They can design, install and maintain it and jewelry, fashion, gifts, t shirts. Under new management. of services, branches and ATMs of any Bonaire bank. offer plants, irrigation supplies and garden chemicals. Now They also offer investments and insurance. in new expanded location off Kaya Industria. Valerie’s Airport Shops — Convenient shopping for unique items, magazines, gifts and more. BEAUTY PARLOR MEDICAL FITNESS Hair Affair. Expert hair cutting, styling, facials, waxing Bonfysiotherapie helps when you need physiotherapy for SECURITY and professional nail care. any reason. It’s professionals treat you with the most mod- Special Security Services will provide that extra measure ern equipment and techniques. Phone 717-7030/7850 Fax of protection when you need it. Always reliable. BICYCLE / SCOOTER/ QUADS 717-2444 De Freewieler rents bikes, scooters and quads. Profes- SHIPPING sional repairs on almost anything on two wheels. Sells top PHOTO FINISHING Rocargo Freight Air and sea shipments in/out of Bon- brand bikes. Have your keys made here. Paradise Photo in the Galeries Shopping Center down- aire. Customs agents. Professional and efficient. FedEx town offers fast, fine processing for prints, slides, items agent. What would we do without their services? BOOKS and TOYS and services . Full digital services. At last, a real book and toy store on Bonaire, Addos, SUPERMARKETS in downtown Kralendijk sell books in three languages and PHOTO SERVICES Warehouse Supermarket on Kaya Industria—Biggest has a variety of quality toys. Capture Photo at the Divi Flamingo. Photo classes, cam- air conditioned market with the, largest selection and low- era rental, digital processing, all state of the art! est prices on the island. CELLULAR SERVICE Mio offers by far the clearest, most phone reliable signal REAL ESTATE / RENTAL AGENTS WATER TAXI on the island. And their personnel are trained and friendly. Caribbean Homes, “the Refreshing Realtor,” specializing Get to Klein Bonaire by Ferry. Ride the Kantika di Check out their unlimited calling plan. in luxury homes, condos, lots, rentals and property man- Amor or Skiffy. Hotel pickup. Easiest landing on Klein agement. DIVING Carib Inn is the popular 10-room inn with top-notch dive Harbourtown Real Estate is Bonaire’s most experienced WINES shop and well stocked retail store. Best book trade on Bon- real estate agent. They specialize in professional customer Antillean Wine Company. You’ve tried the rest; now try aire. Good prices on regulator repair, dive computer H.Q. service, top notch properties and home owners insurance. the best: best prices, highest quality wines from around the world, kept in a cooled warehouse. Free delivery. Shop at Dive Inn—For your diving with a personal touch. Located Re/Max Paradise Homes: Lots of Choices in real es- Kaya Industria 23, Monday-Saturday 9 am-12 noon. in town at Chacha cha Beach. Drop ins and cruise ship tate—International/US connections. 5% of profits donated passengers welcome to local community. List your house with them to sell fast. Regular Advertisers in The Bonaire Reporter WannaDive - They make diving fun while maintaining are included in the guides. Free! the highest professional standards. In town at City Café Sunbelt Realty offers full real estate, rental, and insurance and at Eden Beach. services. If you want a home or to invest in Bonaire, stop in and see them.

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Page 14 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 the hotel’s own dining facilities on it). 4:15 p.m. He looked inside through Letters Hotel Development because Divi Sunset will be an all- What benefits will the new big the glass door and saw people in Good Schools inclusive hotel. Having my own hotels bring for the Bonairean peo- line in front of the counter. The experience with the excellent, fresh ple? In my view, there will be man thought that perhaps for secu- New PO Service? to the Editor food at acceptable prices in the more problems than benefits for rity reasons, only a limited number restaurants of the Divi hotels on the inhabitants of our island. The of persons were always admitted to Aruba Hotel Development, Aruba, I can predict that not only frequently used argument that the enter the Post Office. A Lesson? the Divi guests but also guests of hotels will bring jobs for the local After a while, the door was Dear Editor: other hotels and locals, will fre- people is not valid in this case. unlocked from inside by a man in a I have always been very critical quently visit the Divi Sunset hotel It is possible that only a very white shirt and dark trousers. The about the frenzy of hotel construc- restaurants. limited number of local people will old man wanted to enter, but the tion on Aruba. However, in one One situation concerning the work as managers in lower posi- Post Office employee declared that respect Bonaire should follow the Divi Sunset project has to be re- tions, like it has happened on the office was closed. To the ques- example of Aruba. A large sewage solved and that is how the contrac- Aruba. As everybody knows, there tion why the office was closed treatment plant with waste collec- tor will prevent damaging the coral is no labor available on Bonaire for although it had to stay open till tion pipelines was built years ago Azul Project Road reef by loose fine sand particles the construction and operation of 4:15 pm the employee answered along the Aruba shore before the during the reconstruction of the the hotels. that the manager had ordered it. construction of the hotels on the main asset of Bonaire. hotel beach. I asked this question Jiri Lausman After the old man asked to speak to Druif Beach, Eagle Beach and The local leading politicians and, to the Divi Sunset Resort project the manager, the employee, who Palm Beach had started. The puri- unfortunately, also part of the local manager, Mark Nooren, in Decem- refused to give his name, shouted fied water does not flow back into population, are proud that the ho- ber 2006 and he answered that he What Makes A Good School that it was not possible, grasped the sea but is used for the irrigation tels and large condominiums are would get to me on this matter in Dear Editor: the old man and threw him on the of a large golf course. On Bonaire, being built. They do not realize due time. Obviously, the due time A few years ago the Dutch daily, sidewalk. The old man fell on his just the opposite is happening. that this development will have, has not arrived yet. In my opinion, Volkskrant, gave its opinion on arm and hip and lay at a distance of Development is proceeding and the next to the environmental damage, the project should begin with the what makes a good school: about three meters from the door. waste water will be returned to the a detrimental effect on their own beach reconstruction rather than A successful school: The waiting women shouted, seaside. lives. A large influx of workers with the building of block walls a powerful principal "Bergwensa!" (Shame!), but the The volume of waste water, go- from the Caribbean and Latin along the site perimeter. a strong team employee locked the door and did ing directly or indirectly into the American countries, required for While the Divi Sunset Resort has a clear vision of the purpose of not look back at the old man on the sea around Bonaire is increasing the construction and operation of a bright future, the prospects for the school sidewalk. When the man fell, three every day. Uncontrolled release of the hotels, will not only dramati- the Bonaire Hilton Resort & Spa discipline and peace letters he wanted to send registered nutrient-rich waste water promotes cally increase the current serious are less optimistic. The main rea- and unwavering confidence in mail fell from his hand, and the excessive growth of algae that may infrastructural problems but will son is that Azul Development, the capacities of the students. strong wind took them away. He eventually smother the reef. Every also jeopardize the cultural identity which had been involved in the In what respect does the SGB was not able to try to catch them. diver or snorkeler can see that that of the Bonairean people. Accord- past in the development of several live up to or does not live up to The old man, limping and feeling a reef algae, particularly near the ing to the statistics, Papiamentu is hotels on the Aruba’s famous Palm these requirements? severe pain, walked to the Medical resorts, is increasing. the mother language for just 68% Beach, has, unfortunately, ignored Knowing this, something might Center where the doctor, after ex- Although development on Bon- of island inhabitants. Immigration the basic rule in the real estate and be done about it. amination, stated that the old man aire should be concentrated in by several thousand foreign work- hotel development: “Location, Ger Vellinga suffered injuries on his hip and other areas (consider the decrepit ers will inevitably result in a grad- Location, Location.” Azul has cho- elbow. If he were not retired, he condition of several school build- ual replacement of Papiamentu by sen a site which has no beach and would be unfit for work for two ings), the government of the island Spanish as has already happened is absolutely below the standard Post Office’s New Service? weeks. is fixated on the idea that the con- on Aruba! for a Hilton hotel. It is for us in- Dear Editor: The old man later visited the struction of more houses and new And what are the prospects for comprehensible that, according to Last Friday afternoon at 3:30 pm Police Office and submitted a com- big hotels is crucial for the pro- the two new large hotels? I expect our information, no high Hilton a nearly 80-year-old man arrived plaint against the Post Office em- gress of the island. It is completely that the Divi Sunset Hotel will be a official had visited the site before at the locked door of the Kral- ployee due to maltreatment. You ignoring the seminal Pourier Re- big success as the Divis on Aruba. signing the agreement to give its endijk Post Office where several would never believe that such port of the 90s, which counseled Due to its ideal location and good name to the resort. (A draft of this persons were already waiting. He things are happening on our para- slow development and reef protec- services it may become the favorite article was submitted to the re- wondered why the door was locked dise island! tion. Its most important principle is high level hotel on Bonaire. Unfor- sponsible director at the Hilton at that time because, according to The Old Man that all future development must tunately for the existing restau- headquarters in Beverly Hills, the information on the door, the consider the unique coral reef, the rants, the guests will make use of California, who had no comments Post Office on Friday closes at

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phone (599) 790-6518, 786-6125, E-mail: [email protected] Divi Divi Air The Bonaire Reporter, George DeSalvo, Publisher. Laura DeSalvo, Editor in Chief. Address: P. O. Box 407, Bonaire, Neth. Antilles. Available on-line at: Reservations www.bonairereporter.com Published every two weeks 24 hours a day Reporters: Siomara Albertus, Tony Bond, Penny Davison. Jack Horkheimer, Call (5999 839-1515) Marcel Leurs, Jerry Ligon, Ann Phelan, Brian Reckenbiel, Louise Rood, Lee Scruggs, Michael Thissen, Elisabeth Vos. Call (5999 563-1913) Distribution: Yuchi Molina (Rincon), Elsa Martis (Playa), Housekeeping: JRA. Printed by: DeStad Drukkerij, Curaçao ©2008 The Bonaire Reporter

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 15

Rockers Unplugged - Buddy Dive 7:00 PM-every Sunday at 5:00 PM. HAPPENING SOON Resort, 6-10 pm Phone : ************************* Arts and Crafts Markets at Wilhelmina Park on Cruise Ship Thursdays 786-4651, 788-1369 or 786-7699 . Saturday, April 5—Rincon • Flamingo Rockers at Al-Anon meetings - every Monday Days, 10 am – 2 pm Market in the heart of Rincon , “Admiral’s Hour” for yachtsmen evening at 7 pm. Call 790-7272 Spend the day shopping, playing and others, Vespucci Restaurant, Weekly Bonaire Talker Gathering Cruise Ship Schedules Harbour Village Marina. HH drinks, and Dinner at Gibi's - Tuesday - 6:30 games or visiting historic sites. Subject to Change pm - call 567-0655 for directions. gratis tapas, 5-7 This month’s big market is dedi- • Bonairiaan Restaurant, open 9 Bridge Club - Wednesdays, 7.30 cated to Ben Oleana who has been Sun., Apr. 6 – 2 Ships -Aidavita, –10:30 am, run by teens in training. pm at Old Inn (across the street from Hanseatic Only on Thursdays and Fridays. Cof- Plaza) All levels, NAƒ2,50. Call Joop working for the betterment of Rin- Tues. Apr. 8-Emerald Princess con for three years. For more in- fee, tea, homemade baked goods. 717-5903 or be there by 7:15. Wed., Apr. 9 – Sea Princess Stichting Project. Kaya J.A. Abra- Darts Club plays every other Sun- formation call Raymunda Fines at Sun., April 13- Aida Aura ham#27 day at City Café. Registration at 4, 717-3693 or Dorothy Cicilia at 796 Wed., Apr. 16- Crown Princess games at 5. Tel. 717-2950, 560-7539. -9046. Fridays JCI - First Wednesday of the Month • Bonairiaan Restaurant, open 9 - Junior Chamber International Bon- REGULAR EVENTS Sunday, April 6 —2008 BWC –10:30 am, run by teens in training. aire (JCI Bonaire, formerly known as • The popular SGB High School Only on Thursdays and Fridays. Cof- Bonaire Jaycees) meets at the ABVO Half Marathon, 14K and 7K Fun restaurant, Chez Nous, is now open fee, tea, homemade baked goods. building, Kaminda Jato Baco 36 from Run Start at Eden Beach 7 am. to the public. Four-course dinners with Stichting Project. Kaya J.A. Abra- 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Everyone is wel- Contact De Freeweiler bike shop welcome cocktail on Tuesdays. Seat- ham#27 come. Contact: Renata Domacassé ing begins at 6 pm. Lunches on or Bonaire Wellness Center , The • Harbour Village Tennis, Social 516-4252. Wednesday & Thursdays. Call 717- Kiwanis Club meets at APNA Plaza, total distance of the course is Round Robin 7 - 10 pm. $10 per per- 8120, ask for Chez Nous or email: son. Cash bar. All invited. Call Elisabeth Kaya International, every other 7.1Km; starting from Eden Beach [email protected] Vos at 565-5225 Tuesday, 7 pm. Tel. 717-5595, Resort and then it follows Kaya • HH 2 for 1 (all beverages) 6-7 Jeannette Rodriguez. • Swim lessons for children by nd th Gobernador N. Debrot towards pm, Divi Flamingo Balashi Beach Enith Brighitha, a Dutch Olympian, at Lions Club meets every 2 and 4 Bar Sunrise Poolbar and Sportsclub, for Thursday of the month at 8 pm at south. Then it follows the ocean • HH—50% off- Buddy Dive Re- Kaya Sabana #1. All Lions welcome. road – Kaya Playa Lechi, Kaya children 0 – 18. sort, 5:30-6:30 p.m. • Manager’s Bash—free Flamingo Rotary lunch meetings Wednesday, J.N.E. Craane - that runs until the • Divi Flamingo Casino open Smash & snacks, Live music by Fla- 12 noon-2 pm - 'Pirate House', above town pier. At Plaza Wilhelmina, daily for hot slot machines, roulette mingo Rockers, Divi Flamingo, Zeezicht Restaurant. All Rotarians runners will turn left and then left and black jack, Monday to Saturday Balashi Beach Bar 6-7 pm welcome. Tel. 717-8434 8 pm– 4 am; Sunday 7 pm– 3 am. • Free Rum Punch Party (5:30- Toastmasters Club meets every again at Kaya Grandi to run to- • By appointment – Rooi two weeks. For more information call wards Kaya Libertador Simon Bo- 6:30 pm) with Moogie Nation, fol- Lamoenchi Kunuku Park Tours lowed by all-u-can-eat BBQ, 7-10 pm, Crusita de Palm at 786-3827 or Lucia livar. The run follows Kaya $21 (includes tax). Discounts for Buddy Dive Resort Martinez Beck, at 786-2953. Korona and at the end runners will residents and local people. Tel. 717- turn left to follow Kaya Amster- 8489, 540-9800. FREE SLIDE/VIDEO SHOWS • Parke Publico children’s play- CHURCH SERVICES dam and then back to Eden Beach Sunday– Creature Feature– John ground open every day into the eve- and Suzie Wall of Buddy’s Digital Protestant Congregation of Bonaire: Resort. ning hours. photo center present a multimedia Kralendijk, Wilhelminaplein. In Saturdays slide Presentation about Buddy’s Papiamentu, Dutch, English, Sundays, Sunday, April 6 – 30th Annual Steak Night On the Beach (a la carte) House Reef - pool bar Buddy Dive, 10 am. Rincon, Kaya C.D. Crestian, in Papia- Kontest di Fli In the field behind with live mariachi- Buddy Dive Re- 6:30-7 pm, 717-5080 sort, 6—10pm mentu, Sundays, 8:30 am. Kooyman’s. All day from 9 am. Monday- Land & Ocean Bonaire • Rincon Marshé—6 am-2 pm. by Fish-Eye photo staff, 8 pm on the Children’s club, Saturdays, 5 pm, in Sign up at the Flamingo Book Enjoy a Bonairean breakfast while you big screen in front of Bonaire Dive & Kralendijk Store on Kaya Grandi. Entry fee is shop, fresh fruits and vegetables, gifts, Adventure. Sunday School, Sundays, 4 pm, in local sweets, snacks, arts, handicrafts, Tuesday —Sea Turtle Conservation Rincon. Bible Study and Prayer meet- NAƒ 3,50 for children; NAƒ 7,50 ings, Thursdays, at 8 pm, Kralendijk. for adults. For more information candles, incense, drinks, music. Bonaire presents the Sea Turtles of www.infobonaire.com/rincon. Bonaire Slide Show. Every 1st & 3rd New Apostolic Church: Kaminda read Flotsam & Jetsam on page 7 • All You Can Eat BBQ at Divi Tuesday, Buddy Dive Resort, 7 pm— Santa Barbara #1, Sundays, 9:30 am. Flamingo with live music, 6 to 9 pm. 717-3802. Services in Dutch. 717-7116. Sunday, April 12 — Beginning Call for reservations 717-8285 ext. Tuesday—Diving Facts And Fiction International Bible Church of Bon- 444. - An Evening with DIR slide/video aire: Kaya Amsterdam 3 (near the traffic at 6:30 am. Bike ride to benefit circle) Sunday Services at 9 am; Sunday the Bonaire Puppet Theater, • Soldachi Tours—See the real show by Caribbean Gas Training, 8 Bonaire and be transported back in pm, Bonaire Dive & Adventure,786- Prayer Meeting at 7 pm in English. Tel. JePoBon. time. Learn about the history, culture 5073 717-8332 Route: Kralendijk Stadium, Kaya and nature by Bonaireans from Rin- Wednesday– Sea Turtle Conserva- The Church of Jesus Christ of Lat- Betico Croes, Nikiboko Zuid, con. Call Maria Koeks for more infor- tion Bonaire presents the Sea Turtles ter Day Saints: Kaya Sabana #26, mation—796-7870. of Bonaire Slide Show, every 2nd & Sundays 8:30 - 11:30am. In Papia- Kaminda Lac, Kaya Ing. Van Eps, mentu, Spanish and English. Kaya International, Airport and • Mountain Bike Training for 4th Wednesday at Bruce Bowker's riders of all levels (also Tuesday) at Carib Inn (717-8819) at 7pm. Catholic: San Bernardus in Kral- end at the Stadium. There will be 5pm. Bonaire Wellness Connexions, endijk – Services, Sunday at 8 am and five rest stops along the way. Eden Beach, 785-0767, email BONAIRE’S TRADITIONS 7 pm in Papiamentu, 717-8304. [email protected] Kas Kriyo Rincon—Step into Bonaire’s Our Lady of Coromoto in Antriol, Cost:NAf 17,50 Adults and 15,00 Saturday at 6 pm in English. Mass in for children. Make sure your bike Sundays past in this venerable old home that has been restored and furnished so it appears the Papiamentu on Sunday at 9 am and 6 is in good condition. • Live music 6-9 pm while enjoy- pm. 717-4211. ing a great dinner in colorful tropical family has just stepped out. Local ladies will Assembly of God (Asemblea di Cost covers a T-shirt , water, ambiance at the Chibi Chibi Restau- tell you the story. Open Monday thru Fri- juice and fruit. Get tickets at the day, 9 –12, 2-4. Weekends by appointment. Dios): Kaya Triton (Den Cheffi). In rant & Bar, Divi Flamingo. Open English, Dutch & Papiamentu on Sun- office of SKAL in the Bonaire daily 5-10 pm. Call 717-2445. Mangasina di Rei, Rincon. Enjoy the day at 10 am. Wednesday Prayer Museum or Lula Hart, Kaya Zuid Mondays Meeting at 7:30 pm. 717-2194 • “Dive & Dine” Buddy Dive view from “The King’s Storehouse.” Learn Nikiboko 127, tel. 717-2666. about Bonaire’s culture . Visit homes from Ministerio di Kristu Hesus Services Resort, 6:30 –9:30 pm Sunday mornings at 10 am at Jong Bon- Buy a ticket to support the cause • Soldachi Tour of Rincon, the the 17th century. Daily. Call 717-4060 / even if you won’t ride. 790-2018 aire Youth Center in English, Dutch and heart of Bonaire, 9 am-noon. $20-Call Papiamentu. Preaching the full gospel. Maria 717-6435 Bonaire Museum on Kaya J. v.d. Ree, behind the Catholic Church in town. Open Contact: 786-2557. Sunday, April 20 – Rotorally Tuesdays sponsored by the Rotary Club. Pre- • Margarita & Taco Tuesdays! weekdays from 8 am-noon, 1:30-5 pm. Tel. 717-8868 Send event info to: sale tickets from all Rotary mem- With $2.50 Margaritas and a Taco bar! The Bonaire Reporter bers or at [email protected] Plus Live music by the Flamingo Washington-Slagbaai National Park, Museum and Visitors’ Center. Email [email protected] Rockers, 6-8pm Divi Flamingo, Tel:790-6518 or 790-8988 Balashi Beach Bar Open daily 8 am-5 pm. Closed on Sunday, April 30 – Rincon Day • some holidays. 717-8444/785-0017 – Biggest party on Bonaire Details Wednesdays CLUBS and MEETINGS next issue. • “Live Cooking by the Chefs” with live music by the Flamingo AA meetings - every Wednesday at Page 16 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 *to find it... just look up By Astrologer Michael Thiessen For April 2008 April 8th's Jerry Lodriguss photo Occult

Occurrence: ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You may find that your documents are not in order. In- Watch The laws may cause difficulties. Travel should be considered. Get out and, about. You will Moon be well looked upon due to your compassionate and giving nature. Your luckiest Hide The events this month will occur on a Tuesday. Seven Sisters TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) New methods and innovative technology will make

your job far easier than you anticipated. Travel will initiate new friendships or love ark connections. Pleasure trips will turn out to be better than anticipated. Make your inten- M tions perfectly clear and find out exactly what is expected of you. Your luckiest events Tuesday this month will occur on a Friday. night, April GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You need to do more research before you make your 8th, as the final decision. Elders may need your help. You must try to help. Emotional up and night when a downs have caused doubts in your personal life. Your luckiest events this month will cosmic occult occur on a Sunday. occurrence Crescent moon and the Seven Sisters CANCER (June 22-July 22) You may blow situations out of proportion when deal- will occur. ing with the one you love. Sentimental feelings may make it difficult to get much done That's because at work. Don't be too eager to give a piece of your mind or even your opinion this whenever one object in the heavens passes directly in front of another object and month. Set the ball in motion and be relentless until you complete the project. Your hides it from view we call such an event an occultation because the word occult luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday. comes from the word to hide. And next Tuesday, April 8th, in early evening an LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Take care that arrangements to spend quality time together exquisite crescent Moon complete with Earthshine will indeed pass over the fa- are made in advance. Recognition can be yours if you present your ideas and stand bled star cluster, The Seven Sisters, and occult them, that is hide them from view behind your beliefs. Empty promises will cause upset. Make love, not war, and all will for a brief time. be fine. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday. On Tuesday evening April 8th, just after dark, face west where you will see an VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Offer good conversation and a nice soothing lunch. exquisite three-day-old crescent Moon complete with Earthshine. Now in case Try not to let your emotions interfere with the completion of your work. It's time to you've forgotten what Earthshine is, simply keep in mind that the Moon does not reevaluate your motives. Be prepared to lose friends or alienate other people if you make its own light but shines by reflected sunlight. So the bright part of the cres- insist on being stubborn. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday. cent Moon you'll be seeing is sunlight bouncing directly off the Moon and back to LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You could meet an interesting individual you'll want to Earth. However, when the Moon is a crescent it frequently looks like there's a get to know better. You may want to make changes in your home environment. Don't dark full Moon nestled within this crescent. And we call this Earthshine because it give your heart too readily. Hobbies will be good for your emotional well being. Your is light from the sun bouncing off our Earth onto the unlit portion of the Moon and luckiest events this month will occur on a Friday. back again. And believe me, the crescent Moon with Earthshine is always a beau- SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your ability to charm others will bring added popu- tiful sight. larity. Secret affairs will only lead to deception. You will be overly generous with But on this night if you look close by you will see several stars bunched up to- children this month. You need to be careful not to make promises that you can't fulfill. gether in a group, the tiny cluster of stars known for thousands of years as The Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday. Seven Sisters, The Pleiades. And this evening from many places across the North SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Older family members may take advantage of American continent and the Sky Park, Moon watchers will be able to see the you by making you feel guilty. You will have a great day if you just say what you feel. Moon slowly pass over and hide several of the sisters' stars from view. And al- You can stabilize your financial situation if you make property investments. Argu- though this will look fabulous with the naked eye, I strongly encourage you to use ments with relatives may lead to a split in the family. Your luckiest events this month a pair of binoculars because not only will the Moon with Earthshine look great but will occur on a Saturday. you'll also see dozens more stars in this cluster which is actually a group of about CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can make successful moves. You may be 100 stars, 407 light years away. That means the light we'll see next week left these frustrated by the way situations are being handled in your personal life. Throw your- stars 407 years ago in 1601, only nine years before Galileo was the first to use a self into your work. You will be overly sensitive when dealing with your personal life. telescope to discover the extra sisters. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday. Now I strongly suggest that you start watching at dusk just before it gets com- AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Your ability to work with detail could help you pletely dark out. Have a fairly clear flat horizon because the Moon and The achieve your goals. You'll be able to discuss your ambitions with your mate. Don't let Pleiades will set about three hours after dusk. And as it gets darker you can look your mate bully you into thinking that you owe them your time and your life. Don't to the left of the Moon and The Pleiades and you'll see the dim v-shaped group of agree to make any of those cosmetic alterations you've been considering. Your lucki- stars called the Hyades which mark the face of Taurus the Bull. In fact Taurus' est events this month will occur on a Friday. red eye star, Aldebaran, should easily catch your attention as will Betelgeuse, the PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Investments will cost more than you anticipated. Your red shoulder star of Orion, the Hunter, and the red planet Mars which on Friday partner may push buttons that infuriate you. You may need a good friend to lean on. April 11th will be visited by a wonderful first quarter Moon. So get out next Tues- You need a day to rest and relax with the ones you love. Your luckiest events this day night and why not share this occult occurrence with a friend? „ month will occur on a Thursday. „ Jack Horkheimer

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Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 17

E. Vos photo ony and Terry Bond, former Bonaire T residents and Reporter correspon- dents, recently returned to Bonaire for a vacation. They had a fine time but were appalled at the condition of the (RED) Slave Huts.

T. Bond photo

ver the Easter weekend for the 6th 1e v Albertsz, Thammy (Bon) O time the MCB International Tennis 1-6 6-4 (8-6) Tournament took place on the island of Bon- 2e v Sleur, Miyolou (Cur) Dames Enkel B Finale. aire. Over 110 participants from the US, 1e v Joubert, Sandra (Col) Europe, South America and the Caribbean 6-4 6-4 joined for the biggest tennis event in the 2e v Kramer, Rixt (Cur) Antilles. Dames Enkel C Finale. Tony Bond writes, “We decided to stop at Five long days, starting on Thursday night 1e v Marks, Irene (Bon) the Red Slave Huts, a poignant place of with the opening rounds, working through 6-0 6-3 reflection. As one looks across the roofs of more than 200 matches on the 4 courts of the 2e v de Meyer, Kalli (Bon) Heren Dubbel A. the huts and out to sea, it is difficult not to Harbour Village Tennis Center, all players feel a sense of shame of mans inhumanity 1e m den Hertog, Tim (NL) Bob Bartikoski of RE/MAX realty and the tournament committee were very 7-5 6-0 to man. These small huts that once served celebrated the “highest point of his busy. With a Player’s BBQ on Friday night m Schulten, Jeroen (NL) as primitive forms of shelter for the en- and an Easter Buffet on Saturday night, with 2e m Finies, James (Bon) new office on Kaya Grandi last week. Live Music from Glenn and friends the off m Veeris, Paco (Bon) slaved stand today as a stark reminder to court program also brought lots of entertain- Heren Dubbel B. those darker days. ment and good times. 1e m Domacasse, Leo (Bon) As we drew closer, it became apparent 6-4 6-4 that these monuments have not been given Thanks to automation the match schedule m Domacasse, Leonard (Bon) worked smooth, and on Sunday morning all 2e m Uding, Joris (Bon) the respect that they deserve. The roofs are quarter finals and semi finals could start. A m Veeris, Paco (Bon) defaced with graffiti, they have become total of 20 different categories have been Heren Dubbel B40+. obscured with weeds, paint is flaking and in played, so the entire Monday finals were 1e m Hart, Silvio (Bon) 2-6 7-5 (7-2) places, there is evidence of structural played and award ceremonies held, for inter- cracks. We were shocked and saddened to national players having to catch planes. m Kock, Andres (Bon) 2e m Hirschfeld, Renzo (Aru) Leonard Domacasse from the MCB Bank see the abject vandalism coupled with the m Hose, Humphrey (Aru) wanton neglect. These huts have stood and Adam Littman from Littman’s Jewelers Heren Dubbel C. presented the trophies and vouchers for the 1e m Hart, Giovannie (Cur) since the 1850s, enduring all that nature has winners. For the first time in the history of 6-4 7-5 to offer yet today, they are being allowed to the MCB Tennis Event cheques were given m Josepha, Gideon (Bon) crumble and fall. „ Tony Bond to first and second prize winners Tim den 2e m Despomare, Frank (USA) Hartog (Holland) and Frank Hodgson m Peluso, Sebastiaan (Bon) Heren Dubbel C40+. (Aruba). 1e m Celestijn, Roy (Bon) Tournament Director Elisabeth Vos likes to 7-6 6-3 thank all players and all bar-, kitchen, and m Tjin-Asjoe, Elvis (Bon) committee helpers for the tremendous job 2e m Kock, John (Aru) well done. A special thanks to Humphrey m Vrolijk, Benny (Aru) Hose, group leader from Aruba, who came Dames Dubbel B Finale. with a team of more than 20 players . Con- 1e v Hageman, Yvette (Bon) gratulations are in order for Patricia Polo 6-3 6-0 v Shea, Donna (USA) from Curacao, who became the MVP player 2e v de Vos, Meike (Cur) (Most Valuable Player) of 2008, by bringing v Polo, Patricia (Cur) a team of young female A-players to the Dames Dubbel C Finale. visit/ ay us a event, so for the first time the categories 1e v Muller, Margon (Bon) P iture ew furn Ladies Single A and Mixed Doubles A could 6-4 6-4 N ving! Open non-stop ays arri be played. v Stolk, Annemieke (Bon) alw Tuesday - Friday Interiyours Without all support from the sponsors the 2e v Bierings-vd Rijt, Rosalie (Bon) From 9-6, Sat. to 1 event would never be so successful so a BIG v Pourier, Roella (Bon) thank you for MCB Bonaire and all co- Dames Dubbel C40+ Finale. New name sponsors: TIS, Telbo, Jibe City, Don Andres, 1e v Botterop, Elke (Bon) Same location Vespucci, Littman’s, Duyn Bonaire, Budget 6-2 7-5 Rental Car, Jacobs Architecten, Heineken/JC v Joukes, Suze (Bon) Herrera, Akkermans Auto Supplies, Tenniss- 2e v Fassnacht, Denise (USA) chool Sport Bonaire and Harbour Village v Hirschfeld, Jennifer (Aru) Beach Club for all help organizing the event. Gemengd Dubbel A Finale. The MCB 2009 will be even better! 1e v Albertsz, Thammy (Bon) The Results of the tournament: 6-2 3-6 (7-1) Heren Enkel A. Uitslag m den Hertog, Tim (NL) 1e m den Hertog, Tim (NL) 6-2 2e v Sleur, Miyolou (Cur) 6-3 m Snijdersblok, Daan (NL) 2e m Hodgson, Frank (Aru) Gemengd Dubbel B Finale. Heren Enkel B. 1e v Bierings-vd Rijt, 1e m Snijdersblok, Daan (NL)7 Rosalie (Bon) 6-2 6-0 -5 6-2 m de Palm, Ibi (Bon) 2e m Hodgson, Marc (Aru) 2e v de Palm, Krystel (Bon) Heren Enkel B40+. m Tromp, Gregory (Aru) 1e m Farro, Egbert Gemengd Dubbel B40+. (Aru) 6-3 2-6 (7- 1e v Shea, Donna (USA) 3) 1-6 6-2 (7-5) 2e m Domacasse, Leo (Bon) m Kock, Andres (Bon) BONAIRE’S FIRST Heren Enkelspel C. 2e v Hageman, Yvette (Bon) 1e m Besseling,Lukas (Bon) m Domacasse, Arthur (Bon) AUTHENTIC ARGENTINIAN GRILL 6-4 3-6 (9-7) Gemengd Dubbel C. 2e m Coffi, Leonard (Bon) 1e v Muller, Margon (Bon) Dinner starting at 6:00P.M Open everyday Heren Enkel C40+. 6-5 opgave Find us ONE Block South of Post Office 1e m Domacasse, Willy (Cur) m St.Hilaire, William ( 6-2 3-6 (7-4) 2e v Stolk, Annemieke (Bon) RESERVATIONS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Call: 717-4433 2e m Tdlohreg, Ludwig (Bon) m Da Costa Gomez, Francis (Bon) Dames Enkel A Finale. „ Elisabeth Vos Website: www.restaurantcasablanca.com

Page 18 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008

Mary Ann Koops is off this week taking her VWO-5 students to Holland for an orientation session.

Marcel Leurs photo Han de Bruijne. photo

From Bonaire to

Antillenhuis photo A wonderful pastoral setting at Bona Bista Island Estates

lthough we already had a look at quite Construction of the infrastructure for the first A some developments “coming our way,” two phases (90 lots) of the project will begin we’re still far from having seen all of ‘em. In fact, within weeks and are estimated to be finished by we will probably not be able to catch up with all August. All roads will be asphalted and will have that is, and will be, appearing. completely paved sidewalks, something not all too This time we head just north of Kralendijk. On common on the island. Infrastructure will possibly the right hand side and at the beginning of the include a dual fiber optic network. road to Rincon (Kaminda Gurubu), Bon Bista Is- So far 25 lots have already been sold, both to land Estate is being developed. What will this individuals and to some (smaller) developers, all become? from Holland. We are told that these developers want to com- There is a contract obligation that requires buy- plete a high quality residential area over the ers to start to build within three years after the 255.000 m2 (63 acres) site with 160 home lots plus purchase and complete within five years after buy- an additional bungalow park. Not a small project! ing. There are also certain restrictions on the The developer belongs to a group of investors, building standards of this development. We are who over the last 20 years has been responsible told that these quality stipulations for several projects on Curaçao, amounting to (welstandsbepalingen) will indeed limit a buyer’s 3,000 building lots. freedom, but are there to safeguard long-term The person in charge of getting it all together is quality of the entire project, from which the same from Curaçao and has managed various similar, owner benefits. Just some examples are: a specific The Netherlands although smaller, projects on the Spanish Costa color should be used for the exteriors, a minimum del Sol. When the market there slowed down, of 50% of the roofs should be sloping and roofing In The Netherlands eaten during the day. We were Bonaire seemed to offer new opportunities in the should be made of terracotta roof tiles. In addition invited many times to lunch and light of its upcoming direct ties with Holland and construction activities must be limited to Monday GB High School class it was always a “bready” lunch. he moved here to focus on this project. through Saturday, 7.30 am until sunset. S VWO 5 was in the Nether- You could choose between al- The land’s sloping hillsides with occasional The bungalow park (38.000 m2/9.4 acres) that was lands for two weeks for study most every kind of bread you views over the sea have been owned by the invest- mentioned earlier will be orientation. The students and I can imagine. ment group since the 70s. There were plans for built in a later phase of the (as one of their three supervi- They liked the people of the developing it in 1996, but the time wasn’t right. project and will bring a new sors) went to 12 different univer- Netherlands. Especially when Then, at the beginning of 2007 plans came back resort to Bonaire with green sities and colleges in nine differ- you take a wrong tram and you on the table and were reshaped into what they are and lush gardens . „ ent cities. Some of the students end up where you do not belong. now. Planning is that the entire project will be Story & photo by Marcel had never been to the Nether- You could ask anybody and they accomplished over a period of about eight years. Leurs lands, and most of them had would help you. This happened never been to a university or to some of our students who college. It was a trip with a lot of were supposed to take the tram dents that a watch is a very good Then why take them to the tution and the city they have “first times.” First time in Am- which was going east, but they choice for a graduation present. Netherlands when it confuses chosen. The objective of this sterdam, first time in a tram, first took the westward-bound one. What about the universities them with an (almost) overload excursion was to get acquainted time in the blooming coldness, The students learned how to and colleges? Before we left for of information? You can only with the Netherlands in general first time to see snow! Yes, la- correct their error, and I still the Netherlands, the students make a right choice when you and the universities and colleges dies and gentlemen, we had have nightmares of them riding thought that once they were know what your options are. in particular. We sure have suc- snow. For the first time in 40 the trams of Amsterdam forever. there they would be able to Now they have the same options ceeded! There are also some years the temperatures were so They also experienced “on choose a study. Nothing was as a Dutch student. There is only unforeseen side-effects. This low around Easter that condi- time” in the Netherlands. When further from the truth. They now so much information you can get group of students is not only tions were just right for some you have an appointment at 11 have the full picture of a how from the Internet. You cannot very well informed, but they snow. It was a treat. o’ clock, the Dutch mean five to many possibilities there are at a get the atmosphere or the experi- have tasted their independence, If you ask these students what 11. The Bonaireans might mean university or college. After you ence of different kinds of people and they are very motivated to their impression was of the a quarter past 11. When you are have chosen a study, then you at a university or a college from start their future in the Nether- Netherlands, they will reply: invited to a party here on Bon- have to pick a city you want to the Internet. lands as students. „ COLD! One of the students aire which starts at seven, you live in. They brought more than Everyone we met in the Neth- Story & photo by Mary Ann asked if the air conditioning was know you are not welcome be- 10 kilos of brochures and infor- erlands, without exception, told Koops on when she stepped off the fore eight. The Dutch will ring mation from the Netherlands. us that this excursion was a good plane. Then they will comment your doorbell at a quarter to The choosing has only just be- idea. Some people from the uni- Koops teaches on the amount of bread that is seven. Some Antillean students gun. And here they thought that versities and colleges never real- Biology at the consumed by the Dutch. Some who are already studying at this excursion would help them ized that an Antillean student SGB High School. of the students thought it was not Dutch universities told our stu- in their choice! cannot check beforehand normal how much bread was whether or not they like the insti-

Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008 Page 19

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Page 20 Bonaire Reporter April 4-18, 2008