Bonaire reporter ( March 5, 2010 )

00003-05-2010 ( .pdf )

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P.O. Box 407, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles, Phone 790-6518, 7 86-6125, www.bonairereporter.com email: reporter@bonairenews.com Since 1994 On-line every day, 24/7 Printed every fortnight Commissioner “Pancho” Cicilia, Doei Diaz, Elvis Martinus, Chana Diaz and Governor Glenn Thodé dedicate the new s lipway named in honor of Doei’s mother

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Page 2 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 A s we go to press a decision is being taken in the Dutch Parliament whether to discuss the laws that will determine the future of the Netherlands Antilles: Curaçao and St. Maarten are set to become “Kingdom Countries” and the BES Islands a “special Dutch municipality.” If there is a goahead action on the laws, voting is set to begin on March 4. If passed there is a good chance that transition date of 10-10-10 can be met . Eighteen items require passage. If the debate on the new Antilles-related laws is postponed it might mean a delay of more than a year before they are again presented to Parliament. See the editorial on the facing page for the challenges facing Bonaire’s future course. According to an authoritative source, Bonaire’s wind turbines will be tested this month prior to being put into production. There remains, however, some concern that the financial difficulties of the parent company will slow things down. Workers are being paid not by Econcern but by Rabobank which committed to finance the project. The 12 new wind turbines were a project of the bankrupt company, which owns 90% of Ecopower, which is a partner in Ecopower Bonaire BV. Bonaireans are anxiously awaiting the new power system to become operational as blackouts of the present WEB system are becoming more frequent. The turbines arrived in August of 2009 and were due to become operational in December 2009. A judge in the Court of First Instance in St Maarten has reaffirmed that the Friendship Treaty signed between the Dutch Kingdom and the US on December 5, 1957, which specifies that US citizens should be treated equally as European Dutch in the Netherlands Antilles remains in force. Based on that, the judge reopened the investigation into the appeal filed by the owners of a bar and restaurant against the St. Maarten Executive Council's decision to turn down their request for a director's license for one of their employees. The target date for the first launch from Curaçao of a passenger-carrying rocket spaceflight for a sub-orbital flight is January 1, 2014, says a former commander of the Dutch Air Force, Ben Droste, in the Dutch daily De Telegraaf . Together with a business partner Droste is looking for investors to put up the 75 million euros to bring "Space Experience Curaçao” off the ground. Both the Antillean government and KPMG Accounting support the plans. Several launch vehicles are in development from Lynx XCOR Aerospace and Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic SpaceShipTwo. The ticket price is anticipated to be €70.000. Bonaire is directly downrange of the flight path. Bonaire’s population growth slowed again last year (2009), to about half of what it was in 2008. For more details see the tables on this page. Bonaire’s 2009 budget deficit was approximately 5 to 6 million guilders higher than anticipated due to disappointing revenues and additional expenditures, announced Hans Weitenberg, Chairman of the Board Financial Supervision (Cft). “Even though Bonaire had remained within the permitted deficit in 2008, the buffer is now gone, and 2010 will become a difficult year. The island territory must keep a keen eye on the expenditures, and hopefully the assessment notices and collection policy of the Tax Department will show a better result,” said Weitenberg. The annual accounts, which are due on April 1st, will contain details. (Continued on page 16) Table of Contents This Week’s Stories Bonaire Population Figures 2009 2 Uncertainty 3 Kadushi Killed 6 Wat Nu (Book) Baptism 6 Papiamentu Spelling Bee 6 Happy Birthday Yuchi 8 Discover Your Potential 8 Kites Coming 8 Letters: (Inequality, Editorial Praise Sorobon)) 9 Art Show Success (Franco-Wesselius) 9 Rotary News 9 Waters Worth 10 Walkathon 11 Slipway Dedication 11 Health day-Tai Chi 17 Jazz Festival Coming 17 Reforestation by Restoration 18 Departments Flotsam & Jetsam 2 On the Island Since (Jacinto ‘Boeboei’” Frans) 4 Sudoku Puzzle 6 Bonaire On Wheels– Chev. Step Van 7 Body Talk (Fungal pandemic-2) 7 Bon Quiz #25(Mangrove) 11 What’s Happening, Cruise Ship Schedule 12 Reporter Masthead 12 Classifieds 13 Tide Table 13 Shopping & Service Guides 14 Bubbles-Do You Know? (Shark skin) 18 Pet of the Week (Quiren) 17 Bonaire Voices (Karnaval Group) 16 Best Shelter Sale 16 Picture Yourself (Salem, MA) 16 BonQuiz Answer 17 Sudoku Answer 17 Sky Park (Gemini Twins ) 19 Parker’s Horoscope 19 How to contact us Letters to the Editor: Reporter@bonairenews.com Story tip or idea: info@bonairenews.com The Publisher: George@bonairenews.com Box 407, Bonaire, Neth. Antilles. Phone 790-8988 Phone 790-6518 / 786-6518 Available on-line at: www.bonairereporter.com Printed Every Fortnight, On-line Every day, 24/7 Next edition printing on March 16, 2010. Story and Ad deadline: March 13, 2010 SCOOTER & BIKE SALES & REPAIR Peugeot, Kymco Loekie, Giant Gazelle Brands Parts and accessories for any brand scooter or bike Bike Clothes for Everyone Kaya Grandi #61 Across from INPO Open: 8:30-12:30, 2:00-5:30 Owner Operated freewieler@flamingotv.net The Civil Registry (Bevolking) reported that Bonaire’s population grew last year (2009) by 427 people, from 15,101 to 15,528 , but the growth rate slowed to about half of what it was in 2008; 431 fewer persons took up residence than in 2008. The table above shows the details, Bonaire Population Figures 2009 Age Men Women Total % 0-4 500 469 969 6% 5-11 702 665 1,367 9% 12-17 642 631 1,273 8% 18-30 1,326 1,102 2,428 16% 31-45 2,058 1,693 3,751 24% 46-60 1,946 1,691 3,637 23% 61+ 1039 1064 2,103 14% 8,213 7,315 15,528 53% 47% 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 1,200 1,400 2009 Population by sex and age

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 3 A ll three governments that have influence on Bonaire are in disarray, a situation that is fueling people’s uncertainty about the future of our island. Uncertainty is always bad for business. The first is the Government of The Netherlands. On Saturday, February 20, the Dutch Labor party, PvdA, decided to leave the Cabinet which it formed till now with the Christian Democrats, CDA, and the small party Christian Union. As a consequence, the Dutch Government fell and new elections will be held on June 9, 2010. The fall had nothing to do with the Antilles. It was about extending the presence of Dutch troops in Uruzgan. But the fall has the potential to delay or alter the schedule which would dissolve the Netherlands Antilles and resurrect Curaçao and St. Maarten as independent Dutch Kingdom countries and the BES Islands as a special Dutch public body akin to a municipality. Parliament had been set to debate the first set of laws this week and was set to handle the second, more significant, constitutional change law in April (2010). This should have been sufficient time to meet the planned transition date of 10/10/2010. When a Dutch Government falls the Queen assigns a caretaker government to handle non-controversial business until new elections can be held. At issue now is whether the proposed Antillean-related laws are controversial or not. On Tuesday, March 2, as The Reporter is being printed, a parliamentary committee will make that decision. If they are deemed non controversial, then Parliamentary debate is scheduled to begin March 4. Only two opposition parties Socialist Party (SP) and Party for Freedom (PVV) have declared the Antillean reform legislation “controversial.” If they are successful in making that label stick, then debate will be deferred until after the formation of a new Dutch Government. It might mean a delay of more than a year before the laws on constitutional reform can again be presented to Parliament. And there is no guarantee that the next Dutch Government will keep the agreements made by its predecessor. THE GOVERNMENT OF THE NETHERLANDS ANTILLES The Antilles Central Government, set to evolve on 10/10/2010 to two new countries and a special municipality, conducted the regularly scheduled Parliamentary elections last month. And perhaps it was a good thing, especially if it turns out that there is no transition as planned. Currently a new Central Government is being formed . Bonaire has three Parliamentary seats, two won by the UPB (green) and one PDB (red). The UPB has joined the soon-to-be ruling coalition government, keeping its current minister and state secr etary. Prime Minister Emily de Jongh-Elhage’s new government will have a scant one-seat majority in the cabinet, still one seat short of the two-thirds majority needed to pass key Kingdom legislation on the first reading. This new Government, anticipated to be the last cabinet of the Netherlands Antilles, will not be sworn in until March 26. If the transition goes as planned they will all be out of the job on October 10. What happens if it doesn’t is not clear and no one in the government wants to say. THE BONAIRE ISLAND GOVERNMENT Bonaire’s apparently smooth progress of integration into Netherlands stalled last June when the elected official assigned to negotiating the transition defected from his party on the grounds that he had conflicting views from his UPB party leadership. Anthony Nicolaas took with him his vote in the Island Council and joined with the opposition PDB party to form a new Island Government. One of the first moves of the new government was to call a halt to cooperation with the Dutch transition process until it could evaluate the situation. In October it decided that a new referendum was needed. The Referendum would be held after the scheduled January Parliamentary elections. After the elections, with all sides claiming the vote indicated that their side would prevail in the Referendum, March 20 was the date set and the rules and question for the new Referendum defined. But the voting rules and indeed the formulation of the question itself were declared unacceptable by Bonaire’s Lt. Governor, Glenn Thodé, whose decision subsequently was backed up by the Queen’s highest Antillean official, the Netherlands Antilles Governor. The Referendum was annulled. A new date, indeed the question of whether there will be a Referendum or not, has not been decided at this date. WHY NOW? Suddenly, with the fall of the Dutch Government, the leisurely pace of the process, has accelerated. At stake is five years of negotiation designed to do away with the ineffectual layer of the central government between the islands and The Netherlands, achieve financial stability by paying off the debts incurred by that structure and provide more autonomy, in the case of Curaçao and St. Maarten, or more social and financial support in the case of the BES Islands. The members of Bonaire's Island Council most adamant in their determination to not negotiate with Holland are in The Netherlands this week. Senator Jopie Abraham, Island Council members Marugia Janga and Anthony Nicolaas are to meet with Dutch parliamentary officials. Nicolaas met with Prime Minister Emily de Jongh-Elhage and others in Curaçao last week for more discussions about Bonaire’s position. There is a risk, raised by the antiimmigration Party for Freedom of Geert Wilders which is expected to be the biggest vote-getter in the upcoming Dutch elections, that the contents of the proposed laws would be changed with a new Dutch cabinet. Wilders is set to speak out against the debate of the Antillean laws in Parliament this Thursday. Events in Holland this week will affect the future lives of all in Bonaire. G.D.

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Page 4 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 “A fter Mavo high school I went to Curaçao to study electricity, and when I graduated – I was 21 – I decided to stay a little longer because there were so many things to do. I started working for ALM, the Antillean airline, not because I was so much attracted by the aviation business, but because it gave me the chance to fly for little or nothing to Bonaire whenever I felt like it. On Curaçao I also concentrated on self-directed learning of aircraft engineering – for the same purpose I went to the States. On Curaçao I took special training: avionics, automatic pilot and navigation – a one-time training organized by KLM for our people here. I worked and studied for four years, then I did the state exam in five major subjects: electrical systems, automatic pilot, navigation systems, airconditioning systems and communication systems. Six months later I got my aircraft engineering license. All in all I stayed with ALM on Curaçao for 18 years. When I started dating, one of the first things I would ask a girl was, ‘Would you eventually be willing to come and live with me on Bonaire?’ When the answer was doubtful, the romance would end there and then! I met Xiomara Muller when I was 26. She was born on Aruba, living on St. Martin and had come to Curaçao to study. Xiomara didn’t have a problem with coming and living with me on Bonaire and so we hit it off. Now we’ve been married for 25 years. We have three kids: two boys, one girl. I always had the desire to go back to where I was born, to help improve the economy, and I also wanted my children to get to know their family and to learn about the culture. So, when the eldest was eight and the youngest two, we came here. It was 1995. Xiomara started teaching at the Watapana School for special education in Rincon and I began to clean the land in the kunuku wher e I’d spent my childhood to build our house. I did everything myself. No more aircrafts for the time being. Two years later when I’d finished the house I started Bonaire Airways with a business partner. It was supposed to be a small airline, like Divi Divi, but we had to quit; it didn’t work out. Then I worked as a freelancer for ALM on Curaçao and I also worked as a teacher for all the other airlines there, teaching basic aircraft electrical systems, McDonald Douglas MD 80 and the Havilland Dash 8. It wasn’t like I spent the whole time on Curaçao. When they’d call me I’d go for one or two weeks and then I came back home…fast! On December 23, 1999, when I was on vacation on St. Martin, I was approached by Winair to repair three aircrafts as fast as I could. They had 26 flights booked and three aircraft on the ground. Panic! That same day I repaired all three of them and since January 1, 2000, I’ve been acting director of maintenance. Every weekend I flew back to Bonaire and every Monday back to St. Martin. We were offered a house, cars, everything we needed, by Winair, and Xiomara had her family there, even her mom, but… Xiomara said, ‘You wanted to live on Bonaire, so we stay on Bonaire!’ And that was it!” Boeboei Frans is a strong and handsome man with a great sense of humor, passionate but not fanatic, easy going, smart and friendly and he has patience . “After a year I came back to Bonaire and in 2002 I founded the Aviation Maintenance Technician School, but financially we couldn’t make ends meet. It was a time of recession and nobody was particularly interested in what we were doing. KLM had just started their South American flights and I began to work for BAS (Bonaire Air Services), upgrading the ground equipment park. Then I went to Bonaire Excel, a new airline which had taken over from ALM, to ask for a job. It was difficult as I didn’t have a European license and their maintenance was European. However, I kept on pushing them and they (Continued on page 5) “To me Bonaire means nostalgia, my childhood years, the kunuku, iguana soup, kabritu on the grill – the good old days. ... ” ROCARGO SERVICES, N.V. International Freight (Car) BV The ONLY company offering direct weekly consolidation services from Europe/Holland to Bonaire www.ifc-consolidators.nl Jupiterweg 1A (Ecopark) 4761 RW Moerdijk, Holland Tel 31-(0) 168-40-94 94 Fax 31-(0) 168-40 94 70 Offering DAILY Express Services from and to Bonaire For shipment tracking www.fedex.com The World On Time Kaya Industria 12, KralendijkBonaire—N.A. 717-8922 FAX 717-5791 Email:info@rocargo.com Amcar Freight, Inc. The ONLY company offering direct weekly consolidation services from Miami, USA to Bonaire www.amcarfreight.com 7860 N.W. 80th Street Medley, Florida 33166 Tel. (305) 599-8866 Fax (305) 599-2808 For All Your Shipping Needs Full service door to door by air and by sea. Customs clearance, transportation, warehousing. International and local relocation. Packing material in stock. Qualified and professional personnel. Timely, accurate and reliable ISO 9001: 2000 Certified Boeboei Frans in the office

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 5 took me as a plain helper. When I started working they immediately noticed that I could do anything and after six months I was offered the job of maintenance planner. Then the airline was taken over and the name became Bonaire Express. I was the only Antillean working in maintenance. After a while the airline changed owners again and it became DAE – an Antillean airline. I had an Antillean license and it started to count immediately. The new supervisor came from England. He went to scout technicians in Curaçao and I was promoted as his assistant. When DAE moved to Curaçao all of a sudden, I was the line maintenance manager and I planned and arranged the whole move and… I went with them ‘supposedly’…” He laughs “ They thought I was living on Curaçao, but every morning and every evening I was hopping on the plane, back and forth! Just before DAE moved to Curaçao I was approached by several aviation people to continue with the school. So, after three months I quit DAE and started seriously investigating to see whether any students on Bonaire would be interested in the education we had to offer. January 14th, 2008, we started with 12 students in the day school and eight at night. Now we have 14 students who are in their final year. In August 2009 we started with eight new student admissions. The training takes 30 months, a six-month period of teaching practice included, 1,850 lessons, which is well considered according to the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Our books are American books and they also meet the same requirements. It’s a private school; we’re not getting any help from the government… yet. The training costs between NAƒ 15.000 and NAƒ 20.000 all inclusive. Preparatory training or its equivalent is VSBO, with English, electricity and physics. But students are tested before they are accepted and they have to be 17 or older. When the kids are ready and they start working, they still don’t have a license. They must have two years of practice and that’s checked by the school. We help them to find a trainee post, but they have to find a job themselves. The Aviation Department of the Dutch Antillean government holds the exam. It’s a state exam and the license they get is acknowledged on an international level by the International Civil Aviation Organization, so they can work all over the world. I am the director of the school and we have 13 instructors, eight from Bonaire, three from Curaçao, one from Puerto Rico and one from Trinidad. We even have a space science engineer from Curaçao who studied in Holland and who’s living on Bonaire now. Our plan is long range. We’re also interested in students from the region and maybe later from SouthAmerica as well. The school was visited by the Dutch Department of Education and the conclusion of their report was that our SBO level is a bit higher than the highest level! (You can look it up on the internet under BES-islands). Now we are planning to apply for the European Aviation Safety Authority License part 147 for the school. In about 10 years or so I will still be the owner of the school, but then I won’t do anything anymore. Another director may take my place. But I do have plans to set up an aviation maintenance organization, preferably on Bonaire. It would be like a garage where aircraft are maintained. I’ve got the mechanics already. Then I’m going to take it easy and will plunge deeper into astronomy, my big hobby. But that’s a whole different story – and… do what Xiomara and I like best… traveling. But for now, I am with the school and recently I started working for Divi Divi. Once a week I fly to Curaçao to do quality assurance for them, which includes the ‘human factor.’ Here at school it’s also one of the subjects, to make the students aware of human abilities and limitations – a very important subject – which I’m teaching myself, and it’s complimented by the instructor from Trinidad who has a license to do so. To me Bonaire means nostalgia, my childhood years, the kunuku, iguana soup, kabritu on the grill – the good old days. That’s what Bonaire means to me. And one day they will take me from my house to Kaya Korona without a number. But before it comes to that, I hope that Bonaire with the new structure will develop a better economy from which we all will profit. I think between now and the next 10 years Bonaire will do much better, as long as people stay sensible and realistic.” Story & photos by Greta Kooistra On the Island Since (Coned from page 4) Xiomara and Boeboei Frans

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Page 6 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 I am not a person to rant and rave at the things happening to and on Bonaire, however, an incident that occurred today has compelled me to bring it to the attention of anyone willing to listen. It might not seem a very big deal to most people, particularly at this time with so many other serious concerns for Bonaire’s future. But the incident is another example of how Bonaire is systematically being destroyed daily in small yet insidious ways by individuals and/or groups who have no respect for this island’s nature or culture. Today I watched as a 20-foot-tall kadushi cactus, at least 100 years old, was hacked to pieces a nd cut down. The beautiful kadushi was probably one of the few large cacti left in the old developed neighborhood of Hato. It stood in the backyard of the house next door to mine. The majestic plant was home to four bird nests, each used every year by a variety of our local birds. It fed and watered the loras and prikichis every day during the dry season when they come to Hato looking for food and water. It was a stage for the mockingbirds and troupials to perform their songs each morning. It was a dramatic silhouette at night against the large Bonairean full moon each month. It is now gone forever. Why? Because a family will be moving into the house next door on a temporary basis while some of them do work for Trans World Radio. They have a child with a psychological condition that requires that all sharp objects be removed from the child’s environment. The cactus needles are too sharp. I have sincere sympathy for the issues with which this family must deal. However, it is common knowledge that Trans World Radio has numerous empty houses on the island to accommodate their temporary work force. Was it not possible that this family could have been placed elsewhere? I was told the other houses were “too small”. I offered to build a fence around the cactus, at my own expense, to prevent the child from having access to it. I was told that was not a feasible solution and that it had to be removed. I find it irresponsible, disrespectful and truly sad that a beautiful 100-year-old part of Bonaire, home and sustenance to our wildlife, was destroyed to accommodate a temporary human living situation. Surely there was a feasible alternative to this destruction of Bonaire’s environmental history, contemporary beauty and balance of nature. Some may think this is not such a big deal. But small even ts like these, that have no legitimate purpose, happen on our tiny island every day…some observed, some in secret. Each event eats away at the balance of nature and natural beauty of Bonaire. If we ignore them all, what will be left for the children of dushi Boneiru? A young Bonairean assigned to the “demolition” crew obviously felt bad about the old lady crying over a kadushi. He cut a piece of a cactus arm and carefully provided it to me with instructions on how to plant it and make it grow in my yard. I intend to follow his advice. Hopefully my little cactus will grow to be as tall and majestic as the “mother” that was destroyed. Will someone please check it for me in about 100 years or so, as I will be long gone by then. Jane Madden T he Bonaire Public Library ( Biblioteka Publiko Boneiru ) organized the island’s first Papiamentu language Spelling Bee. The exciting competition was eventually won by Luis Marcano. In the last round only Dustan Mercelina and Luis remained of the 20 finalists. The 1st prize winner received a set of dictionaries donated by the writer Sidney Joubert. Both finalists also received a CD with a Papiamentu spell checker donated by Prive Pro. The event was chaired by Arthur Sealy, who announced the candidates. Gerladine Dammers, Ilviena Carolina and Iveth Anthony formed the expert panel. If you have constructive tips and / or feedback, mail them to openbarebibliotheek@yahoo.com. Biblioteka publiko was pleased with the good turnout of participants, and interested parents. The library was also pleased with the presence of Commissioner Oleana, entertainer Panchito and NOS-TV. G.D. Winner: Luis Marcano. J an Jonkman presented his Dutch language book , "What Now?" (“Wat Nu? ”) on Friday, February 26, at Kas di Arte. Dr. Jonkman came to live on Bonaire in 1964 when it was still a relatively quiet island. He encountered a totally different culture, language and lifestyle in the Antilles from what he was used to in postwar Germany where he had studied and worked. In Germany he was repeatedly confronted with the inequality between people. Because of these experiences he felt a calling to become a pastor. Jonkman emigrated from Germany to Holland where he was again confronted with the unequal treatment and attitudes between the European Dutch and the Antillean Dutch. As a pastor for 45 years and as director of the Foundation for Youth and Family in the Netherlands Antilles Reverend Jonkman was inspired to write his book, about the unequal attitudes between Europeans and Dutch Caribbean. With the support of his spouse, Ilse Jonkman-Visser, his family, the Protestant community and sponsors such as Landhuis Bernabela and Greenfields Residence NV, Reverend Jonkman has realized his dream. The ceremony was well organized and presented by Coffie and van der Hoek, N.V. (Sapphira Coffie and Rosje van der Hoek) Administration and Training Consultancy, (701-7984). Press Release A Kadushi in the mondi Biblioteka Publiko photo

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 7 F ungi in the human body grow very steadily and very, very slowly. That is why it is so hard to link disease to them. However, the evidence can clearly be seen in real time through the lens of a powerful microscope and objectively measured through biological terrain analysis and standard blood chemistry tests. Fungi and yeasts grow by fermentation and the by-product of their metabolism such as lactic acid, carbon dioxide, alcohol and uric acid, irritate the liver and pancreas to the point where the toxic deluge can overwhelm ordinary cell function and damage the organs. Most of the medications prescribed today are symptomatically intended, and most will upset the balance of friendly bacteria in our gut and therefore encourage yeast overgrowth. I have already mentioned antibiotics and penicillin which are both fungal-based medicines. Fungal-based medicines destroy friendly bacteria! Yet the antibiotic is not the problem, its overuse and misuse is! Many of today’s top-selling pharmaceutical drugs, including drugs for cholesterol and weight loss, certain diabetic drugs, and those used in chemotherapy, are partly antifungal in their action or strategy, thereby confirming fungus as the root of the problem. Chemotherapy blocks the production of ergosterol, the building blocks of fungi and cancer cells. Drugs used to balance cholesterol belong to a family of drugs called statins, which are antifungal in their action. From my experience, not many people really understand their high cholesterol problem and tend to look at it as a disease, when in fact it is really a symptom of being infected with fungus. Cholesterol is produced by the liver when it detects a fungal infection in the body. Cholesterol effectively mops up fungal toxins and helps to repair arteries. Therefore the higher your cholesterol level, the higher your level of fungus overgrowth. Certain diabetic drugs are made from sulphur, which as an element has antifungal properties. These drugs may encourage greater secretion of insulin, but they also act as an anti-fungal. Azoles are also used as antifungal drugs, and can be found in drugs for throat and mouth inflammations, prostate drugs, drugs treating AIDS patients, gastric reflux medications and in many antidepressant drugs. By understanding how the drugs work will give us an idea of what is really affecting us; the disease is the overgrowth of yeast and fungus and the symptoms are heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, depression, skin disorders, etc. etc. (Yes, the list IS endless!) Those are the major symptoms, with lesser symptoms of sugar cravings, bad breath, nail bed fungus, eczema, acne, gallstones, obesity, arthritis, PMS, athlete’s foot, jock itch and thrush. Do we really need any more medications? No, we need to be aware of the laws that govern health! By taking these medications, you will (if you are very lucky) keep your particular health problem ‘under control’. Unless you change your diet to an anti-fungal one, you have no hope ever of regaining true health! In the next issue I will show you how to change your dietary habits to eliminate that fungal and yeast overgrowth, how it is possible to wean yourself off all your medications and to be back in control of your health! S tephanie Bennett Author Stephanie Bennett was born in Cape Town, South Africa, where she studied herbs, minerals and nutrition. Before moving to Bonaire she continued her studies in UK, and now researches health issues that particularly affect people on Bonaire and other Caribbean Islands. A SILENT FUNGAL PANDEMIC, CONTINUED. To solve the puzzle, enter the numbers 1 through 9 to the partially filled in puzzle without repeating a number in any row, column or 3 x 3 region. Answer on page 17. Candida fungus Courtesy M. McGinnis Antriol/ Bonaire – Thursday, half past 12. T he pupils from the Kolegio Reina Beatrix (Queen Beatrix College/jb) are off for today. Happy, well mannered and dressed in yellow shirts and blue jeans they are free to leave the school yard now. Parents are waiting for their kids. And a lot of kids have also been waiting to see Tio Pepe! Like the kid’s parents, Tio Pepe has already parked his vehicle in the parking lot in front of the school. Tio Pepe, officially registered as Pursley Bernabela, is the owner of an original Chevrolet Step Van. Well, original… During the years Tio Pepe converted the van more and more to do its job more accurately. The interior contains, among other things, a freezer, a soft ice cream machine, a front desk, a cash register, a sink, several cupboards, a radio, interior lights. On the outside an original bell made out of solid brass is mounted. The bell shows the year “1827.” I do not really think this bell has already achieved the age of almost two centuries. Apart from the brass bell there is also a multi-functional and screamy siren mounted near the bell. The siren can produce all kinds of sounds. Among others the sound of a cock. Maybe the word “rooster” is a better choice. Tio Pepe is a very nice man. He likes the kids. He is always polite and very friendly to them. Some of the kids even have to mount the rear wheel of the step van to reach the level of the counter. To Tio Pepe it does not matter that they scratch the paint of the wheel or the tire a bit. He helps the kids and collects the dimes and the quarters. From his van Pursley sells ice cream, hot dogs, juices and all kinds of little sweets. There is neither alc ohol nor tobacco for sale. Pursley’s rolling shop is based on a long body Chevrolet Step Van, built in 1971. The chassis is made of tough American iron; the huge, square body is made of aluminum, held together by numerous rivets. There are four impressive 16-inch wheels and tires that carry the vehicle. The Chevrolet engineers apparently thought there must be 32 nuts necessary to keep the wheels connected to the axles. Under the bonnet a reliable low-revving, straight-six engine is ladled in. This engine gives traction to the front wheels to save space in the flat-floored van. In the front and at the rear there are two sturdy, white painted, bumpers. Don’t mess with this car, baby! Tio Pepe, being independent, loves his job and his car. Some months ago I met him and his vehicle even way up in Rincon. The slow vehicle is able to cover loads of miles! And miles take time and time makes the ice cream melt. So for the long trips Tio Pepe connects a custom made trailer to the van. On the trailer there is a generator running to supply the electric energy for all the equipment. Then it is around one o’clock. The kids are supplied and Pursley closes the shutter on the side of the van. He starts the engine. Tio Pepe is on his way to the next school and the next group of young customers. The rear end of the Chevy becomes smaller and smaller. In big and amateuristic writing it says: “Ice cream hot dog sold here.” Bye bye Tio Pepe. Have fun! Story & photo by J@n Brouwer The 63rd of a series of Bonaire Reporter articles by J@n Brouwer, featuring some of Bonaire’s interesting veh icles that are “on wheels.” On course for 100+ Tio Pepe’s Rolling Snack

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Page 8 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 M ore than 80 persons have already signed up for the Toastmasters conference, “Discover Your Potential, on March 5-6-7 at the Divi Flamingo Conference room. Price is NAƒ 100 for Toastmaster members and NAƒ 125 for all others. You may register via email: dypconference@gmail.com. For more information visit the website: htts:/sites.google.com/s ite/dypconference/ or contact Crusita de Palm–Leoneta 796-3827, Email:crusita.depalm@gmail.com. There are 4 Toastmasters Clubs in Bonaire: -Toastmasters Club Flamingo meet 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month at 3 pm -Toastmasters Club Wayaká meet 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at 6 pm -Toastmasters Club Sentebibu meet 2nd and 4th Saurdays at 6 pm -Toastmasters Club Culture meet 1st and 3rd Saturdays at 3 pm. Culture is a club that uses English to give the opportunity for their members to improve their English. Meeti ngs are at Sede di Scouting or Prive Pro. Press release H appy Birthday on Sunday, March 7, to Yuchi Molina. Yuchi, a dear friend of The Bonaire Reporter , has been delivering the paper to Rincon shops and restaurants for many years. Pabien, Yuchi, and many, many more years of joy and happiness in the future. Bonaire Toastmasters Club Officers: Standing : Sherwin Pourier, President of the Wayaka Toastmasters Club, and Carlos Lopez, President of the Sentebibu Toastmasters Club. Seated: Lucia Martinez-Beck, Area Gover nor; Geraldine Dammers, conferen ce coordinator; Davicka Bissesar, President of the Culture Toastmasters Cl ub. Missing: Crusita de Palm I ris Semeleer of the Flamingo Book Store is organizing Bonaire’s 32nd annual kite flying competition ( Kontest di Fli) on Sunday, March 28. It will be held at the Juventus soccer field behind Kooyman’s. Kite flying starts at 8 am. Participants may sign up at the Flamingo Book store in Kaya Grandi between March 1 and 27. Entry fee is kids, NAƒ,3,50; adults, NAƒ 7,50. These entry fees have not gone up in many years! There are prizes for the smallest, strangest , most beautiful, biggest and most original kites. The jury will also choose the big winner at the end of the competition. Don’t miss it. It’s an all-day affair with people of all ages from Bonaire and Curaçao flying spectacular homemade kites. In pa st years some of the kites were the size of small airplanes; others were made of beer cans! Main sponsors are Maduro & Curiels Bank Bonaire, Sabadecdo, WEB, Flamingo Book Store and the Bonaire Gift Shop. L.D. Toastmasters Photo

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 9 DON’T ACCEPT INEQUALITY Dear Bonaireans, You have a long and historic memory of human rights abuse. No one knows better than you about inequalities. That you have deep and real misgivings about the process of becoming a Dutch municipality is understandable and legitimate. There are apparent social differences between your status and that of a Dutch citizen in Holland. However, only by joining Holland can you arm yourself with the right tools to fight these grievances in the same arena as other Dutch citizens. This is an extended process, but you have to be inside to begin it. Carpe diem. You must seize the day. One important point: religion should not confuse the issue. In free countries, church and state must be separate. Their laws concern different things: the laws of the church deal with the spiritual life, the laws of the land with human rights. Holland has a first class reputation on the matter of religious freedom. Please forgive a visitor with no voice for speaking out. It is becoming hard to watch the advantage that Bonaire enjoys in these negotiations being frittered away while the political situation in Holland may be changing unfavourably. Dorothy MacDonald REACTION TO EDITORIAL IS NOW THE TIME Dear Editor, I want to thank you for having the courage to speak up during these decisive times for Bonaire. I thought your comments about some in the Dutch government to be spot on. Condescending attitudes and "my way or the highway" philosophies are not helpful during this sensitive time of transition. Let's hope both sides can come to a compromise with dignity and justice. P. I felt my own sentiments expressed by your editorial " is now the time?" thanks for putting it out there -B SADNESS ABOUT SOROBON Dear Editor, We travelled to Bonaire several times, even our son has the name of your island. Not only are we surprised, but we are shocked (to learn that Sorobon Resort was closing). I am the press spokesman of Munich airport and I have talked to a lot of people about the changes in Bonaire Sorobon. Please understand, that there are so many beautiful places in the world, and not only I have travelled to see them. Starting with the Maldives, Mauritius, South America, Seychelles, Emirates and so on. Everywhere superfine hotels and resorts. But Sorobon is unique. Until today it was worth the trip. And in future? There are so many exclusive resorts. We do not think that the world needs an additional exclusive resort. But the tourist world needs places like Sorobon – the way it is. -Peter Prümm Captain Don’s Island Grower NV 103 Kaminda Lagun (Look for the blue rock and dive flag) Phone: 786-0956 A part of Plantation Guatemala Plants, Trees, Tours and More Open from Friday thru Sunday and all holidays. 10 am till 4 pm nonstop “Almost a solid hectare of growing potted plants and trees. Thirty minute tours. No, we don't specialize in palms or fruit trees, but trees we got; Bonaire born and raised, strong plants for strong Bonaire gardens. Reasonable prices starting from NAƒ 5. Landscaping designs, graphically assisted.” — captain Don Bon bini! Welcome to the captain's gardens. FULL DIGITAL SERVICES FUJI MINI-LAB KODAK & FUJI FILM SLIDES E-6 PROCESSING PASSPORT PHOTOS BATTERIES CAMERAS FRAMES PHOTO ALBUMS GREETING CARDS DIGITAL AND MORE... Les Galeries Shopping Center (Bordering the parking lot) Tel. 717-5890 Open M-F 8:30-12, 2-6 pm, Sat. 9-12 R otary Club Bonaire donated NAƒ 2,200 to Fundashon Saka Man Yuda Nos represented by Secretary Hans Bolsman. This foundation helps a group of poor elderly people: giving fruit baskets, food, and repairing their houses and cleaning their gardens. Press release Last Wednesday the Club Bonaire Installed its newest member, Jan Kloos. This makes 31 members serving the Bonaire community. Rotary photos L uz Aida FrancoWesselius first art show at Kas di Arte was an unqualified success. The new artist received great praise for her talent and most of her paintings sold. The show has closed but she can be contacted at tel. 5600907 or 5168575. G.D. Gov Thodé, Luz Aida Franco-W esselius and Ernst Wesselius Kas di Arte photo

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Page 10 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Bonaire's First “Personal” Self Storage Facility Storage space from closet size to garage size. Monthly, yearly and long term contracts. Mangasina di Boneiru, B.V. P.O. Box 50 Kaya Gob. Debrot 124B Behind the yellow “Rum Factory” Across from Hamlet Oasis. Call 700-1753 WWW.BONAIRESELFSTORAGE .COM E-mail: info@ bonaireselfstorage.com Mangrove Trees Mangrove trees are one of the best trees an island in the sun can have. In the Caribbean the currents carry their seeds to far away places where they attach themselves and produce groves of trees on shore that provide shelter to fish and water fowl alike, offer protection of coastal areas from hurricanes, storms and high swells. Bats enjoy the nectar from their flowers at night. Mangrove trees create dry land whilst propagating more seedlings, creating peat and filtering the water. The seeds, when snapped, were used by local fisherman in Lac to waterproof their cotton fishing lines. Basket weaving in the past was popular using one of the mangrove species here on Bonaire. Lac is a unique area and is important for the whole Caribbean region. It functions as a breeding ground. Fish that are born here find immediate protection in the mangroves and as adults venture out onto our reefs and into the Caribbean Sea. To the delight of those who truly know this tree, seeing it on the south west side of the Island is a sight for sore eyes, as it continues to propagate and protect that side of the island from rough weather. Q) Which part of one of these species was used for weaving by Lac fishermen? Answer on page 17 BonQuiz appears regularly in The Reporter. It’s prepared by Christie Dovale of Christie Dovale Island Tours . Contact her to arrange a tour, Phone 717-4435 or 795-3456 or email: christiedovale@hotmail.com. O n Bonaire, while we are quite familiar and comfortable with seawater, we can recognize that due to the porous nature of our land and the arid state of our environment, the island does not retain ground or surface freshwater. The benefit of drinkable tap water is derived from the process of desalination; literally removing salt from seawater. On Bonaire, the desalination plant applies a reverse osmosis process which uses pressure to force saltwater through a special membrane, allowing only pure water to pass. This requires a lot of energy, which at the moment is being supplied exclusively through electrical power. Electrical power, of course, requires the burning of fossil fuels. Earth is the “water planet.” The vast expanses of blue seen in satellite pictures of Earth comprise 97.5% of the world’s water. Of the 2.5% remaining, almost 80% is locked up in ice caps and glaciers. That which is unfrozen is almost entirely (98.4%) found as groundwater. Only 0.01% of all water (1.4% of freshwater) is surface water; and of this only 0.003% is potable (drinkable). Yet, in theory, we are reducing our environmental impact by removing a reliance on bottled water. To produce a one liter (L) bottle of water requires 1.56 to 2.83 kWh *kilowatt hours) of energy when factors such as production, transportation and use are included . This, compared with a mi nimum of 0.00076 kWh required in the desalination of 1 L of seawater, shows that by choosing to drink tap water we can reduce our energy footprint by at least a factor of 2000. To put these numbers in terms of our electric bill, consider that WEB charges NAƒ 0.5974 per kWh, then it would cost between NAƒ 1 and NAƒ 2 to produce just one 1L bottle versus NA 0.0002 to get that amount of water from desalination. You could fill 5,000 bottles with WEB water for the cost of one bottle of water from the supermarket ! Consider how much water we use in any given day and those florins really start adding up! So, why is it that I still see so many people leaving the grocery stores carrying crates of bottled water? This is particularly disconcerting when remembering that our recycling here is limited to glass bottles only. A typical plastic, disposable water bottle contains 0.5 L of water. A typical human being needs 1 gallon (or close to 4 L) of water per day just to keep their body going. That means that for those bottled water drinkers at least 8 plastic bottles are being thrown out every day. Thankfully, most of us choose to drink from the tap, but are we being equally wise water consumers in other ways? More Saving Ways Every time I return from a dive I rinse my gear in freshwater and I spray down the vehicle to remove the salt and sand. And every time I do these things I can’t help but think of the water I am “wasting” just to keep “things” clean. Let’s assume a typical gear rinse tank can hold about 100 L of water; in effect, by rinsing my gear I have consumed that water. Now it comes time to take care of the car. Estimating that a high hose pressure has water flowing at 10 L/min, then in the 3-5 minutes it takes to clean the outside and undercarriage of my car I’ve just used another 30-50 L of water. This is “good” water which is lost because it either quickly evaporat es or runs off on the pavement. Then, when I realize I’ve tracked mud and sand all over the porch, I again use that trusty hose to clean it down. There goes another 10-20 L of water I could be drinking. More than 1 billion people – or 20% of the world’s population – lack access to safe drinking water and in less than 10 minutes I have theoretically deprived as many as 42 of them from the amount of water essential for survival. This example is simply related to a onetime activity, consider how many more liters of water are used daily as we drink, cook, clean (our homes and our bodies), flush or water our gardens? So what can be done to appreciate our fresh water as much as our seawater? Reusing Water Well, the familiar adage of “ reduce, reuse, recycle ” comes to mind. Reducing our water consumption is selfexplanatory. As for reuse , I have heard of several private homes and businesses that have invested in water recapture systems. Mainly these are being used to irrigate landscapes. Rain water can be captured by simply connecting gutters to covered barrels (having the water enclosed will prevent mosquitoes from breeding). Gray water can be acquired by using what is left from washing dishes or laundry. Or, park your car on a gravel area near your gard en and spray it off there, and reuse that water by taking care of your plants. In doing this, you also reduce the amount of water which runs off along the pavement. This is good, since water running over hard surfaces picks up debris, chemicals and other pollutants and carries it into the ocean where these inputs can affect our coral reefs. Another input that has been a hot topic on Bonaire is sewage from leaky or bottomless septic tanks. Water recycling , throu gh the installation of a wastewater treatment plant or the design and construction of wastewater wetlands would also reduce and reuse water which we have already paid to receive. However, my opinions are not intended to open up any political, social, or economic floodgates (pardon the pun), but rather to redraw your attention to the value of “clean” water. This is especially true on an arid, limestone-based island surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. So, ‘ Think before you drink,’ ‘Sweep before you spray’ and ‘Contain it, don’t drain it.’ Lauren Saulino [l.saulino@gmail.com] References: Gleick, P.H. and C ooley, H.S. “Energy implications of bottled water.” Environmental Research Letters 4 (2009) 014009 (6pp). Found on: http:// www.physorg.com/ news156506896.html Lauren Saulino holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental Sciences with a concentration in Environmental Management. The energy required to produce bottled water is up to 2,000 times more than the energy required to produce tap water.

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 11 L ast Friday, February 26, family and friends from Playa Pariba came together to dedicate the new improved slipway to the mother of Doei Diaz, “Slipway Catalina Diaz-Leonora.” This was especially good news as we saw the closing by Harbour Village Resort of another very well used slipway on the road by the Harbour Village Marina, the area to be turned into a dock. At this time there are only two places you can launch your boat: at Slipway Catalina Diaz-Leonora or next to the Venezuelan fruit market across from City Café. Another launching place, “Mo Dé Slipway,” named for Elvis Martinus’ grandfather, was opened with a ceremony in September 2004, but the waves of Hurricane Ivan washed it away. However, according to Elvis, the government has promised to rebuild it. Playa Pariba, the site of the new improved slipway, was a real family neighborhood, many of whom got their living from the sea. Some of the family names along with Martinus were Diaz, Booi, Boekhoudt and Marchena . Several generations from some of those families were there to celebrate. At the celebration some of the younger generation ladies enjoyed the new signposts which inspired them to do a kind of dance. Richard of Richard’s Restaurant asked that we tell everyone who launches a boat at this new slipway that they are free to use his dock during the launching process. L.D. T he 8th Annual Special Olympics Walk-a-Thon is Sunday, March 7 . Commemorating the trek Bonaire’s salt slaves made each week the event has become a tradition for many locals and visitors. Leave from the White Slave Huts in the south at 5 am and travel 30 kilometers along the coast, through Kralendijk and end in Rincon. Participants can walk, roller blade, run, ride a bike or whatever. You may leave your car at the Stadium and get the bus to White Slave. The last bus leaves at 4:30 am. Transportation will be available in Rincon for you (and your bike if needed) back to the Stadium. There will be water stations offering healthy snacks and water every 5 km (approximately 3 miles) along the route and a meal at the finish at Pasadia Karino Rincon served from 10 am to 1 pm. Even if you don’t want to walk or ride you may contribute to this fine organization by buying a ticket and/or sponsoring a participant at so much per kilometer. Entry (donation) fee is NAƒ 25 ($14.04) and includes a t-shirt, refreshments the meal at the end. T-shirts will be handed out at Hotel Rocheline (City Café) on the Kaya Grandi side on Friday, March 5, 5 to 7 pm, and on Saturday, March 6, from 10 am to 4 pm. You may buy your ticket at Chat ‘n Browse or from any of the Sp ecial Olympics Bonaire board members: Claire Sealy (7865454), Chio Semeleer (788-2299), Elska (701-1999), Arlene (525-8496) or Aura (788-0101). Sponsors for the event include Digicel, Nagico, MCB, Hitess, Ennia, Fatum and Claro. L.D. Jong Bonaire walkers on The Reporter cover last year Family and friends celebrate the dedication of Slipway Catalina Diaz-Leonora

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Page 12 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 CLOSE-IN EVENTS 6, the Animal For March 5-7 Educational Event: “Discover your Potential,” sponsored by Toastmasters Bonaire, Divi Flamingo. See page 8 for more information Friday , March 5 American Pianist Marilyn Kredel will perform in Cacique Hall at the Plaza Resort Bonaire starting at 8 pm. More on page 8 & 16 Saturday, March 6 –“Internal Detoxification in a responsible and natural way ,” an alternative medicine talk by Dr. Heesbeen from Curaçao. Presented by the Rose Lord Health Center. Also present will be an expert from Holland. Free. Opportunity for three persons to get a free massage that evening. Everyone welcome. Centro Orkidia Alejandro Saleh (Nrd Salinja), 7:30 pm. Sunday, March 7Special Olympics Walk-a-Thon . More on page 8 & 11. Sunday, March 28 32nd Annual Kontest di “Fli (kite contest) in the field behind Kooyman’s. All day from 9 am. Sign up at the Flamingo Book Store on Kaya Grandi between March 1 to 27. Entry fee for kids, NAƒ 3,50; adults NAƒ 7,50. More on page 8 April 1-5 – 8th Edition of the MCB International Tennis Tournament . Harbour Village Tennis Center. Categories: Men’s Singles, Ladies Singles, Men Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed games; Doubles, skill in classes A, B1, B2, C1, C2. The grading for skill levels of foreign players will use the ITF guidelines. April 24 —Health Day at Bonaire Basics. Details on page 17. May 27-30 Bonaire Heineken Jazz Festival 2010. More on page 17 Crafts Markets at Wilhelmina Park on Cruise Ship Visiting Days—usually 10am until ship departure. Date Day Ship name Time PAX REGULAR EVENTS € Rooi Lamoenchi Kunuku Park Tours $21 (includes tax). Discounts for residents and local people. Tel. 7178489, 540-9800. € Parke Publico children’s playground open every day into the cooler evening hours. Saturdays € Rincon Marshé —6 am-2 pm. Enjoy a Bonairean breakfast while you shop, fresh fruits and vegetables, gifts, local sweets, snacks, arts, handicrafts, candles, incense, drinks, music. Big Marché first Saturday of the month— www.infobonaire.com/rincon. € Flea Market at Parke Publico every first Saturday of the month, 3 to 7 pm. Everyone welcome to buy and to sell. NAƒ10 per selling table.(NAƒ 5 goes to up-keep the park). NGOs can have a free table. More information and reservations for a spot call Vicky Bissessar 786 -1592 . € Wine Tasting at Antillean Wine Company’s warehouse on Kaya Industria, second Saturday of the month , 7-9 pm. Snacks and tasting of six wines for $10 (NAƒ17,50) per person. Tel. 5607539. € Soldachi Tours— See the real Bonaire and be transported back in time. Learn about the history, culture and nature by Bonaireans from Rincon. Call Maria Koeks for more information—7967870. Mondays € Soldachi Tours of Rincon, the heart of Bonaire, 9 am-noon. $20-Call Maria, 717-6435-best island tour value € Meet the Captain Night at Captain Don’s Habitat Bar– Get up close and personal with Bonaire’s dive pioneer. The Captain’s will autograph your copy of his newest book Reef Windows . Fridays € Harbour Village Tennis, Social Round Robin 7-10 pm. $10 per person. Cash bar. All invited. Call Elisabeth Vos at 565-5225 FREE SLIDE/VIDEO SHOWS Sunday– Creature Feature– John and Suzie Wall of Buddy’s Digital photo center present a multimedia slide presentation about Buddy’s House Reef pool bar Buddy Dive , 6:30-7 pm, 717-5080 Monday -Dee Scarr’s Touch the Sea Slide Presentation, Capt. Don’s Habitat, 8:30 pm. 717-8529 Tuesday -Bonaire Land and Ocean presentation by Fish-Eye Photo staff, 7pm on the big screen inside the Sunset Bar and Grill at Den Laman Condos. BONAIRE’S TRADITIONS Kas Krioyo Rincon— Step into Bonaire’s past in this venerable old home that has been restored and furnished so it appears the family has just stepped out. Local ladies will tell you the story. Open Monday thru Friday, 9 –12, 2-4. Weekends by appointment. Call 717-2445. Mangasina di Rei, Rincon . Enjoy the view from “The King’s Storehouse.” Learn about Bonaire’s culture. Visit homes from the 17th century. Daily. Call 717-4060 / 790-2018 Bonaire Museum on Kaya J. v.d. Ree, behind the Catholic Church in town. Open weekdays from 8 am-noon, 1:30-5 pm. Tel. 717-8868 Washington-Slagbaai National Park, Museum and Visitors’ Center. Open daily 8 am-5 pm. Closed on December 25th. and January 1st. Call 788 9015 or 796 5681 CLUBS and MEETINGS AA meetings every Wednesday at 7pm. Phone: 786-4651 or 786-7971 Al-Anon meetings every Monday evening at 7 pm. Call 790-7272 Bridge Club Wednesdays , 7:15 pm— All levels, NAƒ2,50, call Renata at 796-5591 to find out the evening’s location. Darts Club plays every other Sunday at City Café. Registration at 4, games at 5. Tel. 717-2950, 560-7539. The Hash House Harriers running and walking club meets every second Wednesday for a one hour walk throughout Bonaire. The location changes each week. The contact number is 700-4361 JCI First Wednesday of the MonthJunior Chamber International Bonaire (JCI Bonaire, formerly known as Bonaire Jaycees) meets at the ABVO building, Kaminda Jato Baco 36 from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Everyone is welcome. Contact: Renata Domacassé 516-4252. Kiwanis Club meets at APNA Plaza, Kaya International, every other Tuesday, 7 pm . Tel. 717-5595, Jeannette Rodriguez. Lions Club meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 8 pm at Kaya Sabana #1. All Lions welcome. For more information call 510-0710. Rotary lunch meetings Wednesdays , 12 noon-2 pm Divi Flamingo Beach Resort upstairs in Peter Hughes meeting room above the dive shop. All Rotarians welcome. Tel. 717-2066 Toastmasters Club meets every two weeks. For more information call Crusita de Palm at 786-3827 or Lucia Martinez Beck, at 786-2953. CHURCH SERVICES Protestant Congregation of Bonaire: Kralendijk, Wilhelminaplein. In Papiamentu, Dutch, English, Sundays, 10 am. Rincon, Kaya C.D. Crestian, in Papiamentu, Sundays, 8:30 am. Children’s club, Saturdays, 5 pm, in Kralendijk Sunday School, Sundays, 4 pm, in Rincon. Bible Study and Prayer meetings, Thursdays, at 8 pm, Kralendijk. New Apostolic Church: Centro di Bario Nord Saliña, Sundays, 10 am. Services in Dutch. 700-0379 . International Bible Church of Bonaire, at SGB High School auditorium (Kaya Frater Odulfinus, off Kaya Korona.) Sunday services in English at 9 am; Sunday evening prayer meeting at Pastor's home, 7 pm. Fridays, 6 to 8 pm, Light & Life Club, children 5 to 12 yrs. Tel. 717-8332. Catholic: San Bernardus in Kralendijk – Services, Sunday at 8 am and 7 pm in Papiamentu, 717-8304. Our Lady of Coromoto in Antriol , Saturday at 6 pm in English. Mass in Papiamentu on Sunday at 9 am and 6 pm. 7174211. Assembly of God (Asemblea di Dios): Kaya Triton (Den Cheffi). In English, Dutch & Papiamentu on Sunday at 10 am. Wednesday Prayer Meeting at 7:30 pm . 717-2194 Ministerio di Kristu Hesus Services Sunday mornings at 10 am at Jong Bonaire Youth Center in English, Dutch and Papiamentu. Preaching the full gospel. Contact: 786-2557. Prayer and Intercession Church, in English. A full Gospel Church l ocated temporarily at Kaya Alexandrit # 20, Santa Barbara, Republiek. Services are held on Sunday mornings from 10am until 11:30am. Bible studies in English are on Monday nights from 7 to 8 pm. Contact: 717-3322 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints : Kaya Sabana #26, Sundays: 9 am Sacrament Services (Translation to English and Papiamentu upon request) 10:20 Sunday School, 11:15 RS/YM/YW/PH Primary held from 10:20-12 noon Visitors Welcome: Call 701-9522 for Information Who’s Who on The Bonaire Reporter Take The Reporter Home—1-year subscription: By mail to US $70; By mail to Europe $150. By Internet $35 donation. For information about subscriptions, stories or advertising in The Bonaire Reporter , PO Box 407, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles; phone (599) 790-6518, 786-6125, E-mail: info@bonairereporter.com The Bonaire Reporter, George DeSalvo, Publisher. Laura DeSalvo, Editor in Chief. Address: P. O. Box 407, Bona ire, Neth. Antilles. Available on-line at: www.bonairereporter.com Published every two weeks Reporters: Siomara Albertus, Jan Jaap van Almenkerk Stephanie Bennett, J@n Brouwer, Christie Dovale, Dolfi Debrot, Caren Eckrich, Jack Horkheimer, Greta Kooistra, Jane Madden, Derek Parker, Lauren Saulino, Ron Sewell Unattributed photos are by the editor or publisher. Distribution: Yuchi Molina (Rincon), Elisabeth S ilberie (Playa), Divi-Divi Airline Housekeeping: JRA. Printed by: DeStad Drukke rij, Curaçao ©2010 The Bonaire Reporter Thursday March 4, 2010 Ruby Princess 0700-1400 3100 Friday March 5, 2010 Enchantment of the Seas 0700-1530 1950 Monday March 8, 2010 AidaAura 0800-1600 1260 Tuesday March 9, 2010 Ocean Dream 0800-1600 1422 Tuesday March 9, 2010 Sea Princess 1200-1900 2016 Wednesday March 10, 2010 Noordam 0800-1700 1918 Friday March 12, 2010 Enchantment of the Seas 0700-1530 2446 Monday March 15, 2010 Delphin 1330-1900 400 Monday March 15, 2010 BRAEMAR 0800-1800 700 Tuesday March 16, 2010 Ocean Dream 0800-1600 1422 Thursday March 18, 2010 Caribbean Princess 1100-1900 3100 Friday March 19, 2010 Enchantment of the Seas 0700-1530 2446 Cruise Ship Calls -Informati on provided by the TCB Send event info to: The Bonaire Reporter reporter@bonairenews.com Tel:790-6518, 786-6125

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 13 Bonaire Reporter Classifieds— Are still free Got something to buy or sell? Non-Business Classified Ads (up to 4 lines/ 20± words): FREE Commercial Ads only NA ƒ 1,10 per word, for each two-week issue. Call 790-6518 or 790-6125 or email info@bonairereporter.com CARS Leaving the island. For sale: White Daewoo Matiz, 2000, 5-doors, 5speed, 51.000 km, airco, original. Two new tires and a new battery. Ang. 7.000. Call 717 – 2399 or mail digitalis1956@hotmail.com for a picture and more information. —————————————— Living Accommodations Wanted: Mature, responsible, single woman to take care of my house and dog in Belnem in exchange for reduced rent (NAƒ450 a month) for separate, spacious guesthouse with bedroom, kitchen, private bathroom and outside “gazebo” living room – all situated in a beautiful walled-in garden. Cable TV and Internet included. Utilities NAƒ 175 a month. Available March 19 for long term . Email Pauline at pkayes@diversityworksinc.net . ——————————————— For rent as of March 1 , two bedroom upstairs furnished apt, excl. utilities, Pagabon, no pets, Nikiboko , call 795-3456 ——————————————— FOR RENT 2 bedroom apartment. Great location Abraham Blvd. ANG 1350 month long term. Laundry facility on premises. 788-3837 ——————————————–For rent at Hato , apartment (2 bedrooms) 1-2 persons. From 10 February. Minimum stay 4 months. No pets allowed. no airco allowed. Incl.; gas/ water/electricity/internet/linen/selibon/ furnished/garden/parking place/terrace/ tv connection Rent per month NAƒ 850,-All In NAƒ 1150,-normal use. Deposit NAƒ 1150,-—————————————— Hato -for rent small house 1-2 persons (2 bedrooms). From March. Minimum stay 4 months with airco, water, electricity, internet, linen, selibon, furnished, garden, parking area, dishwasher, washing-machine, boiler etc. private terrace. (separate TV connection and gas possible). No pets allowed. 717-2529 or 796-2529. ——————————————— SERVICES BUSINESS LICENSE FOR SALE (VERGUNNING OP BONAIRE) IMPORT and SALES of NEW and PRE-OWNED furniture, household accessories, construction and building materials, tools, toys, books, electronics, electrical appliances, bicycles, scooters, automobiles, boats etc. Current inventory included. 788 3837 famouscaptain @ gmail.com ————————————— MISCELLANEOUS Two (2) full size sofas . Frames and cushions excellent. Just need recovering. Both for only NA 99. Call 717-8819 from 8 am to 5 pm —————————— Pinball Machine Jokerz For sale at NA 595 or best offer. Over NA 1500 invested in new circuit boards, parts etc. Needs finishing up with Tel (599) 791-6272 / 785-6272 hans@outdoorbonaire.com www.outdoorbonaire.com Bonaire Images Elegant greeting cards and beautiful boxed note cards are now available at Chat -N-Browse next to Lover’s Ice Cream and Sand Dollar Grocery. Photography by Shelly Craig www.bonaireimages.com ——————————————— For Quality House and Office Cleaning .. CALL JRA Serving Bonaire for more than 15 years Honest, Reliable, Efficient, Thorough, Low rates, References. One time or many Phone 785-9041 … and relax. ———————————— LUNCH TO GO Starting from NAƒ6 per meal. Call CHINA NOBO 717-8981. Web site: www.chinanobobonaire.com __________________________ 16 Flights a day between Bonaire and Curaçao Divi Divi Air Reservations 24 hours a day Call (5999 839-1515) Or (5999 IS YOUR HOUSE NEW TO YOU? Make it more livable from the start. FENG SHUI CONSULTATIONS Also interior or exterior design advice, clearings, blessings, energy, healing, China-trained. Experienced. Inexpensive. Call Donna at 795-9332 . JANART GALLERY Kaya Gloria 7, Bonaire Local Art, Art Supplies, Framing, and Art Classes. Open Tu.-We.-Th. & Sat 10 am5 pm Friday 17 pm; or phone 717-5246 for appt. Zapataria Rincon Shoe and Purse Repair – Kaya Grandi 36 FELMAR Cleaning Services Apartments, Hotels, Houses, Offices & More. Efficient Work, Good References. Tel. 786-0019 Property Services Bonaire B.V. Taking care of your properties (while you are off island). Email for information and prices: propertyservicesbonaire@hotmail.com KRALENDIJK TIDES (Heights in feet, FT) Remember: Winds and weather can further influence the local tide’s height and time DATE Time Ht. Time Ht. Time Ht. Time Ht. ` COEF 3-05 5:34 1.8FT. 14:24 0.9FT. 76 3-06 6:27 1.9FT. 15:28 0.8FT. 63 3-07 7:23 1.9FT. 16:14 0.8FT. 51 3-08 8:09 1.9FT. 16:53 0.8FT. 42 3-09 8:52 1.9FT. 17:33 0.8FT. 38 3-10 9:35 1.9FT. 18:00 0.9FT. 41 3-11 0:25 1.2FT. 10:09 1.8FT. 18:22 0.9FT. 47 3-12 2:51 1.2FT. 2:52 1.2FT. 10:43 1.7FT. 18:41 1.0FT. 54 3-13 0:03 1.3FT. 4:11 1.2FT. 11:23 1.6FT. 18:54 1.0FT. 62 3-14 0:34 1.4FT. 5:23 1.2FT. 11:55 1.5FT. 18:53 1.1FT. 68 3-15 1:01 1.5FT. 6:40 1.2FT. 12:28 1.4FT. 18:33 1.2FT. 74 3-16 1:29 1.5FT. 8:29 1.2FT. 13:17 1.3FT. 18:03 1.2FT. 79 3-17 2:01 1.6FT. 11:00 1.2FT. 14:06 1.2FT. 17:29 1.2FT. 82 3-18 2:41 1.6FT. 12:53 1.1FT. 82 3-19 3:30 1.7FT. 14:01 1.0FT. 80 3-20 4:21 1.8FT. 14:38 0.9FT. 76 3-21 5:24 1.8FT. 15:18 0.8FT. 69 3-22 6:18 1.9FT. 15:51 0.8FT. 61 3-23 7:20 1.9FT. 16:17 0.8FT. 55 some wiring etc. Call 717-8819 8 am to 5 pm —————————— For Sale : Blonde wood entertainment center. Dimensions: 183cm w X 189cm h X 41.5cm d. NAƒ300; Panasonic 32" TV 4:3 (TV as is) NAƒ 75 ; Sony Tuner 75NA ; JVC VHS w. videos Technics Tape Deck 50NA ; 2007 MITSUBITISHI truck running board 200NA , Call: 717-2050 ———————–———-——— For Sale: antique cabinet, oak, 3 shelves plus drawer, cut glass in doors, height 1.90 meters, width 1.00 meter NAƒ 400.Refrigerator LG Electrocool, not even one year old, NAƒ 750.-. Phone 786-3117. ————————————Get Results Fast Commercial ads are Inexpensive, Non-commercial ads are free. Does your English need a little "polishing " for your work in the tourist industry? Call 788-7919 for help with conversational English. From Bonaire Nautico Marina BONAIRE NAUTICO MARINA At It Rains Fishes Restaurant Call Henk at 560-7254 / Bob 786-5399 www.bonairenauticomarina /VHF 68 info@bonairenauticomarina.com THE ONLY WALKON / WALKOFF Catamaran Kantika di Amor Up to 27 people and supported by a brand new larger sister Catamaran Kantika Too Up to 50 people TRIPS Every Day (max 1.90 meter draft), Dinghy tie up at north-inside dock at US$10 weekly up from Monday till Monday. Water and 115/220 v. Daily trips via resorts 10 am, 12 , 2 pm Except Sundays at 10 am only Also available for group trips

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Page 14 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Hair Affair We do our best to make your hair and makeup wishes come true!! You can also come in for facials and facial waxing . We use and sell L’Oreal products Is your plan to marry on the island? We can make you beautiful and stay beautiful for your happiest day. Personal attention by Janneke Appointment by tel: 717-5990 or just walk in. Downtown, near the waterfront next to Little Havana Tues-Fri: 9-12, 2-6 Sat: 9-2 non stop AIRLINES Divi Divi Air. Bonaire’s “on time airline” with 16 flights a day between Bonaire and Curaçao. Your first choice for inter-island travel. Now flying to Aruba. AIRTOURS The Bonaire Aero Club invites you to see Bonaire from the air. Take a one-hour flight with up to three persons. Ideal for photography or environmental study or see your house. APPLIANCES /TV/ ELECTRONICS and COMPUTERS City Shop , the mega store, has the island’s widest selection of large and small home appliances, furniture, TV, computers, cell phones and more. Fast service and in-store financing too. BANKS Maduro and Curiel’s Bank provides the greatest number of services, branches and ATMs of any Bonaire bank. They also offer investments and insurance. BEAUTY PARLOR Hair Affair . Expert hair cutting, styling, facials and facial waxing. BICYCLE / SCOOTER/ QUADS De Freewieler sells bikes and all kinds of bike accessories. They do professional repairs on almost anything on two wheels. Have your keys made here too. BOOKS Reef Windows is Captain Don’s latest book and features the true stories of the naming of many Bonaire dive sites. A great souvenir as well. CONTRACTOR Equinox Bonaire— A USA licensed contractor for hotels, restaurants, residential. On Time—Done Right. DINING Bistro di Paris A real French restaurant with affordable prices and friendly Bonairean ambiance Owned and operated by a French Chef On Kaya Gob. Debrot ½ mile north of town Pasa Bon Pizza is Bonaire’s best. Freshly prepared pizzas made with the finest ingredients. Salads, desserts. Eat in or take away. Nice bar too. 780-1111 Call ahead to eat -in or take out, Next to Bistro (above) Lunchroom de Bonairiaan— Breakfast & lunch prepared and served by Stichting Project students under professional guidance. Monday-Friday, 9-2. Kaya Gob. N.Debrot, opposite Divi Flamingo. DIVING Carib Inn is the popular 10-room inn with top-notch dive shop and well stocked re tail store. Best book trade on Bonaire. Good prices on regulator repair, dive computer H.Q. ScubaVision Document your Bonaire vacation above and below the water with a custom DVD by Bonaire’s top videographer, Hendrik Wuyts GARDEN SUPPLIES AND SERVICES Green Label has everything you need to start or maintain your garden. They can design, install and maintain it and offer plants, irrigation supplies and garden chemicals. Now in new expanded location off Kaya Industria. Captain Don’s Plan ts, Trees and More sells genuine acclimated Bonaire plants. Take a 30-inute tour too. Strong plants for strong Bonaire gardens. HEALTH Harmony House— The herb and mineral center. Help your body heal itself. Natural Way Health Store— The place where all the hard to find natural and healthy products are. Upstairs from Botika Bonaire, on Kaya Grandi. HOME CARE Bonaire Second Home Care can handle all the needs of second home owners on Bonaire including inspection, management and cleaning. INTERNET AND CELLULAR SERVICE MIO offers by far the clearest, most reliable phone signal on the island PLUS WIRELESS HIGH-SPEED INTERNET almost everywhere on Bonaire. LIQUEUR Taste a Cactus when you try Cadushy of Bonaire Liqueur. Available in many shops and markets it makes the perfect souvenir of the island. PEST CONTROL Professional Pest Control . Call Peter to get rid of all those nasty pets like termites, fleas, ticks and ants that want to invade your home. Call now and save your investment in your home. PHOTO FINISHING Paradise Photo in the Galeries Shopping Center downtown offers fast, fine pr ocessing for prints, slides, items and services. Full digital services . REAL ESTATE / RENTAL AGENTS Bonaire Sunshine Homes is the realtor with a local touch. Ask them to show you the good value homes they list. Call them if you are thinking of selling your home. Caribbean Homes, “the Refreshing Realtor,” specializing in luxury homes, condos, lots, rentals and property management. Sunbelt Realty offers full real estate, rental, and insurance services. If you want a home or to invest in Bonaire, stop in and see them. RETAIL Benetton, world famous designer clothes available now in Bonaire at prices less than those in US. For men, women and children. Best Buddies and Pearls —Stunning fresh water pearl jewelry, fashion, gifts, t shirts. Wonderful service, free gift wrap. STORAGE The Storehouse ( Mangazina in Papiamentu) offers Secure Storage For Vehicles, Household Items, Diving And Sporting Gear, Business Files or Inventory. Across from the northern hotel row. SECURITY Special Security Services will provide that extra measure of protection when you need it. Always reliable. SHIPPING Rocargo Freight Air and sea shipments in/out of Bonaire. Customs agents. Professional and efficient. FedEx agent. What would we do without their superb services? SUPERMARKETS Warehouse Supermarket on Kaya Industria— Biggest air conditioned market with the, largest selection and lowest prices on the island. WATER TAXI Get to Klein Bonaire by Ferry. Ride the Kantika di Amor or Skiffy . Hotel pickup. Easiest landing on Klein Bonaire with built-in ramp WINES Antillean Wine Company. You’ve tried the rest; now try the best: best prices, highest quality wines from around the world, kept in a cooled warehouse. Free delivery. Kaya Industria 23, Mon.-Sat. 9 am-noon. To learn more about these businesses check their ad in this issue of The Reporter Fortnightly Advertisers in The Bonaire Reporter are included in the guides. Free! Call 790-6518, 786-6518 Check CARIB INN First. Great Prices –Great Stock Scuba Sales Repair Replacement New Gear Accessories Always Great Values Dive gear specials CARIB INN Since 1980 PADI 5 STAR GOLD PALM 717-8819 8 am to 5 pm daily (next to Divi Flamingo Hotel) AFFORDABLE NetTech N.V.info@NetTech.an www.NetTech.an Tel:717-6773 Fax:717-7854Bonaire’s Official Web Site Developer!Domain Registrations E-mail Hosting Anti-Spam & Anti-Virus Web Site Design Web Site Hosting Marketing Consulting Internet Consulting Photographic Services Graphic Design Bonaire’s Official Web Site Developer

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 15 I n two words we can say the work was hard and it was intensive but we did it with pleasure. We were working hard for the last two months to have the costumes done for Karnaval. Mrs. Bea Obersi, the leader of the group was working day and night. All the ideas started last year when a group of friends came together Bea Obersi, Tica Sealy, Liesje Saragoza, Francis Da Costa Gomez, Angelo Domacassé and Rosalba Figaroa—to come up with the idea of a Zulu Tribe. The costumes were designed by the group of friends themselves with the helping skills of Rosalba Figaroa, a nail artist and painter. The costumes were sewn by three professional tailors, and each member of the group had to work on decorating their own costume. Their hand, shoulder and head pieces and shoes were under the supervision of Bea Obersi, Tica Sealy and Liesje Saragoza. Bea made the head pieces and Rosalba the Zulu faces. We, as the other group members had to do all the the finishing touches. Mr. Francis Da Costa Gomez and his team did the work on the road pieces. All the teamwork made the dream of the group come true: “The Zulu Tribe Goes to a Party Which the Karnaval Foundation Has Prepared For Us.” Some people thought our costumes were imported, but they were not. Everything was made by hand. The material and all the decoration accessories were bought in Bonaire and Curaçao. The costumes were made by professional tailors on Bonaire. We created the jewels with the decorative items. We used a lot of foam containers, soft cardboard, garments, glue guns and sticks. The Zulu Faces were made of hard cardboard, old newspapers, toilet paper and paper towels, glue, paint and glitter. For additional decorations for the hand piece we used wooden sticks, plastic bottles and painted and glittered tree leaves to decorate the Zulu Faces and the headpieces. For the headpieces we used a cap, masking tape, newspaper, glue and hard foam. A lot of handcraft and dedication were needed to make a neat job. Only the feathers were imported from the United States. So for the next Karnaval the coming year, depending on what your idea for a costume will be, you can start recycling old newspapers, foam containers and plastic bottles to create something nice. If you have the courage, the joy and the love, why not continue with a group or start with your own group for next year. Just standing along the road and criticizing our Bonairean Karnaval doesn’t give a boost to our culture. If you want see Bonaire Karnaval grow, give it a helping hand, although I can say that this year was a very good year for Karnaval in Bonaire. The Karnavalgoers and the Karnaval sponsors had a very pleasant experience this year. Thanks to them for being part of Karnaval’s 35th anniversary. An invitation goes to you for next year to come and to enjoy, experience and contribute to Bonaire Karnaval. Siomara Albertus MAKING YOUR SPACE A BETTER PLACE USA LICENSED CONTRACTOR / 30 YEARS WORLDWIDE CONSTRUCTION EXPERIENCE HOURLY RATES – 7 DAYS INSTALLATIONS – RE PAIRS – REMODELS <>HOTELS <> RESTAURANTS <> <>RESIDENTIAL<> TELE 717 -3527 FAX 717-3528 CELL 701-3527 EMAIL: EQUINOXBONAIRE@AOL.COM BONAIRE VENTURES B.V. On time <> Done Right Al Fresco or Air Conditioned Dining Between Downtown and Hotel Row One street inland—Kaya Gob. Debrot 46 Reservations: 717-7070 info@bistrodeparis.com Open Monday -Saturday La Terassa, Kaya Grandi 23N (floor above Botica) 717-3353, 510-2318 Open MondaySaturday 10 am—6 pm nonstop Health Store Organic Products Sugarless Treats Unsalted Items Dried Fruits Herbal Teas 100% Natural Juices High Quality, Healthy, Natural Products photo: Send your comments to The Bonaire Reporter, P.O. Box 407, Bonaire, or email reporter @bonairenews. com . Karnaval Group— The Fancy Gems Fancy Gems’ Karnaval Costume

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Page 16 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 B e pampered for breakfast or lunch by youngsters in training for the world of the professional restaurant business by the Stichting Project. Delicious menu, Good prices On Kaya Gob. N. Debrot – opposite the Divi Flamingo Hotel Open: Weekdays 9.00-14.00 Dutch authorities are no longer bound by a five-year limit on hunting tax evaders abroad , the country’s highest court ruled on Friday, adding scope to an aggressive government push to find tax cheats. The Court said tax authorities must limit their investigations to a “reasonable period,” but did not set any time limit or guidance on what that might be. During her Bonaire vacation, American pianist Marilyn Kredel will give two concerts on Friday, March 5. In the morning, starting at 11 am, she will give a concert, with discussion, to SGB High School students at the Cacique Hall of Plaza. This concert is made possible by KPMG and organized by the Classical Music Board Bonaire. In the evening, starting at 8 pm sharp she will perform works of Scarlatti, Chopin, Brahms, Liszt and Beethoven in concert in Cacique Hall. Marilyn Kredel, born in Fort Scott, Kansas, is a well known American pianist and organist. Her latest solo piano CD, “When Morning Guilds the Skies” (which will be available at the concert), gave her a wide reputation. She has performed by invitation in the Vatican, at Notre Dame in Paris and Carnegie Hall in New York. Ms. Kredel will donate the profits from the concert to the Fundashon Piano Grandi . This foundation acquired a Yamaha C5 grand piano in 2009 and the Foundation will use the gift for the maintenance of the instrument. Presale tickets to the concert are available at Flamingo Bookstore, Addo’ s Bookstore and Plaza Resort at NAƒ 30 .; at the Cacique Hall tickets will cost NAƒ 35 and NAƒ 10 for students showing a school ID. The Classical Music Board expects great interest in the concert and advises buying tickets at presale addresses. For info on reservations call 786-0455. The concerts organized by the Classical Music Board Bonaire are supported by Flamingo Communications, Bon FM, KPMG, Caribbean Homes and Rocargo. Especially for our readers in Holland: This year Sunbelt Realty will take part in the Second Home International Show on March 26th 28th in the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht. If you would like a free ticket, courtesy of Sunbelt, go to www.secondhome.nl and register with code: 951407 or visit the Sunbelt website and click on the "Second Home Beurs" banner to register. Even if the direct link with Holland is formalized soon Senator-elect Johnson of Saba said that he has a deep concern that the BES islands will fall into another vacuum, like the one he observed during his years as a Saba Commissioner. “I was totally on my own resources during that time as there was no help from the Central Government,” he said. The concern is that promises of Dutch financial aid will not be met because of concerns about the Netherlands’ own deficit. “Holland will be less generous, and if debt alleviation is not completed for the BES islands, we will have major difficulties,” he explained. Johnson also pointed to Venezuela as lurking in the wings with territorial claims on the ABC islands as an added concern. Curaçao airline Insel Air flew the first passenger flight between Miami and Haiti following the earthquake of January 12 . Insel Air is essentially Haiti’s flag carrier. An American Airlines flight landed about two hours later. There had been no other commercial flights since the earthquake. The earthquake with a force of 7.0 on the Richter scale claimed an estimated 300,000 deaths. How can unemployed Bonaireans enhance their employability was the subject of presentations by Danilo Christiaan of Mangazina di Rei and Johan van der Graaff, quartermaster of Social Affairs and Employment, last Thursday February 25 in Antriol. Henk Kamp, Commissioner for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, kicked off the evening with a status report. This was the fourth meeting in the series of Papiamentu language RSC Reports in the Sentro di Barios. Bonaire scholar Arthur Sealy is the moderator. Admission was free and snacks, drinks and music were provided. The Overseas Territories Report, an authoritative journal on economic, social and political affecting small island overseas countries, territories and departments in its February 2, 2010, edition ( Vol. IX No. 2 February 2010 ) published a paper by Dr. Carlyle G. Corbin, the International Advisor on Governance hired by the Bonaire Government. Dr Corbin, the Former US Virgin Islands Minister of State for External Affair, in his article, SelfDetermination or Annexation? The Case of Bonaire, was critical of the Antilles Governor’s termination of Bonaire’s Referendum plan and stated it violated the right of self-determination of the people of Bonaire as guaranteed under international law. Dutch State Secretary of Kingdom Relations, Ank Bijleveld-Schouten, said via her spokesman, Tijs Manten, that she regrette d the fall of the Balkenende IV cabinet because it obviously means a delay in the process of constitutional reform. She said she was very committed to completing the new arrangements in the Kingdom. “Everything was ready to handle the law proposals in Parliament and that has now come to a standstill. That is too bad,” said spokesman Manten. Following a recent consultation the future countries St. Maarten and Curaçao decided to stick to their earlier agreement for a shared Central Bank and joint “own” currency, thus not switching to the US dollar as some had suggested. What the new currency will be called or look like is still unclear, but it is already obvious that it can’t be introduced by October 10, 2010, when the new constitutional relations within the Dutch Kingdom are supposed to take effect. Therefore the current Antillean guilder will be maintained for the time being. Former Dutch Minister of Finance Wouter Bos explained to parliament that the choice of the use of the dollar on the BES Islands was due partly in response to economic arguments made by the Islands themselves. More than 65% of the trade of the islands (Bonaire: 67.5%, Windward Islands: 85.7%) is with countries using the dollar or a currency linked to US Flotsam and jetsam (Continued from page 2) I n the coldest, snowiest winter of recent times, Bonaire resident and contractor (Equinox Bonaire) Brian McCarley went to New England. He writes, “I had to go North that'll be the last time I'm north of the 12th (parallel) got a pix for you. I was in Massachusetts for 103 hours 14 minutes and 12 seconds. WIN GREAT PRIZES! Take a copy of The Bonaire Reporter with you on your next trip or when you return to your home. Then take a photo of y ourself with the newspaper in hand. THE BEST PHOTOS OF THE YEAR WILL WIN THE PRIZES. Mail photos to Bonaire Reporter , Box 407, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles (AN). E-mail to: info@bonairereporter.com. dollars. The largest part of tourism comes from the dollar area. The Aruban airline Tiara Air will be flying to new destinations and offering special rates for senior citizens and students . During a press conference Marketing & PR assistant Abigaél Arends announced they would be including Bonaire and Rio Hacha, Columbia, in their flight schedule. As a form of promotion, students can book tickets to and from Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and Venezuela at reduced prices, and there will be special rates for all senior citizens. Registration is open for the MCB International Tennis Tournament. Participants can pick up registration forms at all MCB offices and at the tennis clubs on the island. Return registration forms to the Harbor Village Tennis Center daily between 3 and 6:30 pm. Registration closes on March 15 or earlier if the maximum number of players is reached. The US ambassador in The Hague Fay Hartog Levin (above left) , visited the new Minister Plenipotentiary of the Netherlands Antilles Marcel van der Plank in mid-February. The ambassador was among others curious about the new political structure, which Mr. van der Plank's detailed explanation provided. G./L. D. Dr. C. G. Corbin Antillean House photo

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 17 Puzzle on page 7 O n 24 April, a Health Day for Bonaire has been organized at the Bonaire Basics facility in Kaya Korona. This same day is World Tai Chi Qigong Day and the Diamond Waters Tai Chi School will join with their compatriots all over the world to highlight the health aspects of Tai Chi. A full program of events has been arranged with different 20 minute presentations every half an hour at the Bonair e Basics facility. The presentations will be made separately in English, Spanish, Papiamento and Dutch and will include the subjects of Tai Chi, Qigong, Nutrition, Skin Care, Body regeneration, Aloe for health, Acupuncture, Physical Therapy, Brain Gym exercises and Non-violent communication. Further information is available from from Ron Sewell, email address: ron.sewell@diamond-waters.com or by contacting Bonaire Basics at 717-3041. Press release Bon Quiz ( from page 7 ) Q) Which part of one of these species was used for weaving by Lacfishermen? A) The prop root of the red mangrove ( Rhizophore mangel ) Ted Perians, Ron Sewell, Patricia Yvette Gorrin, Beverly Jimenez, and Bo Bodifee during Tai Chi practice Diamond Waters photo Y oung “Quirien” was brought into the Bonaire Animal Shelter along with her sister “Queenie.” The people who brought them in just had too many dogs to take care of. “Quirien” is so proud and a darling. She’s alert – just look at those standing up ears – and loves to show off the snow white fur on her chest. She’s friendly but not to someone who shouldn’t be in her yard. This girl will be a fine watch dog. It was good luck for Quirien and Queenie to be brought in because at the Shelter if the dog is in good health and is social with people they will be put up for adoption. Both dogs have been checked out by the vet, had their shots, worming and tests and are ready to go. When they are a little older they will be sterilized. All this for the dog adoption fee of NAƒ 105. You may meet her and the other adoptees at the Shelter on the Lagoen Road, open Monday through Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm and 3 to 5 pm. Tel. 717-4989. Website: WWW.BonaireAnimalShelter.com . L.D. “ Quirien” Laura DeSalvo photo T he Shelter’s Sterilization Program, “Bonny Superdog,” is still going full speed, but to keep up with the demand they desperately need donations to keep the program going. If you can help – any amount is more than welcome – you may do it in several ways. Cash donations are always appreciated. Look for the dog house donation boxxes in many shops and businesses or at the Shelter. Support Bonaire provides a way for Americans to don ate to their favorite causes and claim charitable deductions on their American income tax. Support Bonaire website now accepts credit card donations for the Shelter. Or you may donate via the bank: Animal Shelter Bonaire, RBTT Bank Antilles, Bonaire Branch, Account # 23.10.139. BIC: RBTTANCU SWIFT: ABNANL2A Press release T he Bonaire Jazz Foundation reports that the Bonaire Heineken Jazz Festival 2010 will be on May 27, 28, 29 and 30. So put it on your calendar now. A variety of musical styles with bands from all over the world with internationally known jazz musicians mingling with the best musical talent Bonaire has to offer. The Festival, which takes place for the sixth successive time, with star performers like world renowned trumpeter Cuban Arturo Sandoval and his band, Manny Moreira from Brazil, BEKU from the US, Joke Bruijs, Frits Landesberg, Henk van Twillert with Tjako van Schie from the Netherlands and our best local musicians, the Cabaco Trio, the Silver Bullet Steel band, the New Generation Dancers and Kaña Brabu. Late night jam sessions starting at 11:30 pm, will be at Sense, across from the Plaza entrance on the Friday and Saturday. Heineken is the title sponsor. Main sponsors to date are: Plaza Resort, Divi Flamingo Resort, Telbo NV, Breathe-IT, It Rains Fishes, Budget Rent a Car, Maduro & Curiel’s Bank, Sunbelt Realty, Rocargo, Sense, Mega FM, Capt. Don’s Habitat and Rum Runners, Hotel Rochaline, TIS, Don Andres, HBN Law, Bonaire Affair, TCB and Addo’s Bookstore. Press release

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Page 18 Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Did You Know... . Sharks, unlike most other fish, do not have scales. Sharks have a unique protection called dermal denticles . Denticles are like teeth: they have an outer layer of enamel, dentine and a central pulp cavity and work as an outer skeleton protecting the shark’s body. The unique shape of denticles helps sharks swim faster because the streamlined shape decreases the friction of the water flowing along the shark's body by channeling it through grooves. Unlike fish scales, denticles stay the same size throughout the lifetime of a shark, growing more abundant as the shark grows. The spines of the denticles point backwards toward the tail, so sharkskin would feel relatively smooth if you moved your hand from head to tail but rough if you moved your hand the other way. Like teeth, the shape of the scales is variable among species and can be used to identify the species. Denticles may protect sharks from other sea predators, but they have not protected them from the greatest predator, humans. Many societies used shark skin as a crude form of sandpaper. Also, in Japan, traditional sword smiths used shark skin for the hand-grips of swords to make them less likely to slip. Fortunately, many of these practices no longer occur. Sharks are such beautiful, unique creatures that even the smallest part of their anatomy is vastly different from most other sea-dwelling creatures. Colleen Chabot Chabot is a sophomore Marine Science major at Florida Gulf Coast University and is currently studying Tropical Marine Ecology and Biology at CIEE Research Station Bonaire for the spring semester. T he urgent need for reforestation on Bonaire is evident upon entering our National Prk, Washington-Slagbaai, where in the first 100 meters you will have already seen almost the entire variety of vegetation you can expect to find throughout the rest of the Park. This is the consequence of human impact on our environment. In the past, wood cutting was a common and intensive practice, and at present we are experiencing uncontrolled and widespread goat grazing. In the early days, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao were islands populated with large evergreen trees, more than 300 different species. What can be done to bring our national parks and protected areas back to their former semblances was the subject of the second installation of CIEE’s annual lecture series. On Friday, February 5th CIEE welcomed CARMABI Director, Dr. Dolfi Debrot. Dr. Debrot spoke to a full house about the initiation and progress of his decade-long reforest ation work on the islands of Curaçao and Bonaire, a project made possible by a donation from the Prins Bernhard Cultuur Fonds. Dr. Debrot demonstrated the success of his long-term efforts by showing before and after pictures from different sites which he has been restoring and protecting. He explained that by planting in areas which are already relatively protected, such as Klein Curaçao and Klein Bonaire and the national parks of both islands, seedlings are less likely to be preyed upon, trampled, or ou t-competed. One of the main inhibitors to plant success and diversity has been introduced goats. Dr. Debrot discovered that around 6,000 goats live in the Washington-Slagbaai National Park. These opportunistic grazers have reduced the vegetation to only those plants which are well-defended or unpalatable. To reduce the intrusive and destructive nature of goat migration a fence is being installed around the Park which is expected to prevent these animals from entering. Once goats and other non-native herbivores, such as donkeys and cows, have been excluded, reforestation efforts will have a better chance of success. With reforestation it’s important to use different trees. A diversity of trees means that there will be diversity in their seasons and thus the potential for food sources to be present throughout the year for the birds, animals and insects which depend on them for survival. In the past 10 years Dr. Debrot has gained knowledge about reforestation on our semi-arid islands, and has the following recommendations about planting indigenous trees: • Plant small trees (20-30 cm high) in the shade of another tree or cactus. • Place large stones around it. This way more rainwater will seep into the soil in concentrated places. • Only water in the wet season if really necessary, like this year. • Don't water the trees in the dry season (from March till October). The plants are in their natural resting period. If the trees get water in the dry season, they’ll get fresh leaves and attract ants, iguanas and soldachis (hermit crabs). Last but not least: Protecting an area against goats is a good way to stimulate natural regeneration of trees and herbs. In an atmosphere of increased environmental awareness, it seems there is no better time than now to begin taking steps towards restoring the diverse ecosystems which once characterized the islands of Bonaire and Curaçao. Dr. Debrot has done much to initiate this effort and in learning from his experiences we are now empowered to continue to carry out his work by making choices which are in the best interest of our natural environment. We should try to reduce the impact that goats, donkeys and pigs have on their surroundings; plant natives in our home gardens; and, try to preserve and protect the vegetation already present on our property. Story & photos by Jan Jaap van Almenkerk and Dr. Dolfi Debrot In Washington Slagbaai Park Take note of the left and right sides of this photo. Notice the lush greenery on the left side which is protected from grazing goats and donkeys by the wire fence. The right side is the typically bare landscape when those animals are allowed to graze. Paul Stokkermans, the new director of Carmabi, and author Jan Jaap van Almenkerk point out the destruction done by grazing goats or donkeys to an ancient Kadushi cactus. Shark skin magnified 100x photo: http://www.arkive.org

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Bonaire ReporterMarch 5-19, 2010 Page 19 How to Find the Gemini Twins and Their Sensational Siblings R ight now the constellation Gemini the Twins is at its best for viewing in early evening. And while most people have heard of the two brightest stars of Gemini, Castor and Pollux , not many people are aware that these twin brothers have a magnificent assortment of hidden siblings. Anytime during the first two weeks of Marc h, from 8 to 9 pm, Sky Park time, face up and south where a third of the way up from the horizon you'll see the brightest star in the heavens, Sirius , which marks the eye of Orion's bigger dog. And just up to Sirius' right the bright stars which mark Orion himself. But up much higher and to Orion's left you will encounter two more bright stars, which are named for the famous twin brothers in Greek mythology, Castor and Pollux. Pollux, the brighter of the two, is closer to the horizon and if you look closely, has a slightly orangeish tint to it. Castor, on the other hand, although a tiny bit dimmer, is white. Now for over 2,000 years these two stars were considered the patrons of sailors and seafaring peoples and have been long associated with the phenomenon called " St. Elmo's Fire ." But as ancient as these twin stars are modern science has revealed that there is much more to them hidden from the naked eye. Indeed, upon closer examination we find that the brighter twin Pollux is a humongous star much bigger than its brother and is in fact al most 11 times the diameter of our own million-mile-wide Sun. Dimmer Castor, however, is not to be outdone by his brother because he hides magnificent secrets. In f act with telescopes and other instruments Castor has revealed himself to be more than just one star. Indeed 250 years ago astronomers discovered that when they looked at Castor through a telescope it had a companion. Thus Castor became the first true binary star ever discovered. But later as telescopes improved and other astronomical instruments were invented astronomers were astonished to find out that Castor and his hidden brother each had a companion star which made Castor a quadruple star . And then, surprise of surprises, several years later tw o more smaller siblings were found which gave Castor the distinction of being not just a quadruple star but a sextuplet star, three pairs of stars all moving about each other in an extremel y intricate and magnificent cosmic ballet, with four of the stars being bigger than our own Sun. Wow! Whoever said, "Appearances are d eceiving" wasn't just kidding. So go outside during the first two weeks of March, 8 to 9 pm, look south and after you've found the brightest star Sirius and above him all the bright stars of Orion , look above him and you'll see the most famous twins in the cosmos which modern science has revealed to be seven sensational siblings. Is this universe weird or what? Jack Horkheimer *to find it... just look up N e w DV D A v a i l a b l e B o n a i r e T a Du s h i € Transport of Money and Valuables € Private Investigations € Vehicle patrols € Burglar Alarms € Fire Alarm Systems In Business Over 26 years Kaya Nikiboko Nord 37A, PO Box 225 Tel: (599) 7178125 Fax (599) 7176125 E-mail sss@bonairelive.com March–2010 By Derek Parker ARIES (March 21 –April 21) You’ll do well to keep a distinctly low profile this month; be observant, think through ideas, note on-going situations and how relationships with colleagues are working out. This will all need a certain amount of additional attention which, but when you come to your conclusions the action you decide to take will definitely speed off in the right direction. Don’t rush into anything, and control your natural enthusiasm and optimism, at least until after the 21st . 40% positive TAURUS (April 22 –May 20) You may well find yourself coping with a domestic or family problem which seems insoluble. Short -cut remedies are defi nitely not advisable – especially if by any chance the problem involves an urgent building repair! Resolution will come after the 10th, and in some strange way you’ll feel you can move on again in the confidence that everyone and everything involved is satisfied. 45% positive GEMINI (May 21 – June 20) During the first eight days of March some interesting and rewarding developments will emerge. You’ll need to be consciously practical and cautious in your approach to what is likely to go on, because though you’ll be inspired by suggestions, if you’re not careful you’ll see things through rose-colored spec tacles. A practical approach will ensure that all will go well and lead to satisfying success 50% positive CANCER (June 21 – July21) Your excellent and shrewd business sense will be acute this month, but it’s possible that you could act prematurely in a financial crisis or even facing a good opportunity. Don’t allow yourself to be encouraged to make a commitment before you’re really ready to so do. If you do find yourself in such a situation, make a mental note that you must resist until after the 10th of March all because of possible impulsiveness coming from Mars before that date. 33% positive LEO (July 22 – August 22) You will press on with your usual run of time-consuming commitments and everyt hing will go well – but because you may find yourself feeling a mite bored or restless you may be tempted to move on to enjoy ‘pastures new’ – whatever that will mean to you as an individual! 65% positive VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) For most of March you should make an effort to spend more quality time with your partner and have a lot of fun, choosing the form of fun you enjoy most! If the weather is good, you should aim to get away from your usual environment into the country, by the sea, visiting a zoo or theme park 70% positive LIBRA (September 23 – October 23) Your month will get off to a somewhat dreary start, but after the first week the prevailing atmosphere will change, and life will get better and better as March progresses, with stunningly interesting dates from the 7th when Venus will take a hand and your sex-life may flower in a delightfully insistent way. On the 17th there’s intellectual stimulation from 90% positive SCORPIO (October 24 – November 21) You will fall into a daring but risky mood. Because you are a Scorpio the chances of your doing something really stupid are far less than for several other signs – but nevertheless no matter how confident you feel, listen to your intuition: is it suggesting that whatever your mind is set on is O.K. 30% positive SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) If you have anything important to do – a meeting, interview, a journey to take or an important purchase – if you can, arrange the business for the 8th, when you’ll have a lot of special help from the planets. The outcome will then be favorable and may have long-term positive consequences. But even if some other date is involved, you’ll still have a progressive month, with a special emphasis on home and family . 75% positive CAPRICORN (December 22 –January 19) Take a careful look at, or seek advice about your favorite car, (or any other mode of transport) and your computer system. The planets suggest car or computer system may be about to break down. If you have to buy a new model of either you’ll find one at a good price, but be warned that that you should obtain an expert opinion before buying. 60% positive AQUARIUS (January 19 – February 18) Your feelings and em otional responses are heightened in a pleasantly romantic way which will almost certainly put you in the right mood to enjoy some delightful romantic time with your partner. If you’re into a new relationship you may be sensually swept off your feet, which will probably surp rise you; you usually keep a pretty cool head at these times. Enjoy! but don’t ignore your important Aquarian need for independence. There’s also an accent on money – you could be really extravagant this month. 60% positive PISCES (February 19 – March 20) With a whole cluster of planets working for you, you can expect a very lively and eventful birthday month. Set aside a certain amount of spare time in your diary for unexpected invitations and know that your birthday bash – whether it’s a party for a hundred or just for your nearest and dearest will be a huge success with particularly good dates during the first week, the 15th and the 17th. 75% positive

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