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Welcome to the Visit Aruba Newsletter!
This section will be updated regularly, so keep coming back...

  
News Briefs for March 1-31, 2001
  

• PRICE SMART IS HERE   
  The Minister Of Tourism and Economic Affairs was the one honored with cutting the ribbon. Welcome PriceSmart, she said to Vice President
  Gilbert Partida and investor Ashok Ramchandani.

• ATCA   
  The Aruba Gastronomic Association hosted a tropical fun evening at the Manchebo Beach Resort in honor of ATCA, the annual Aruba Tourism Conference.
  

• Extraterrestrial trip to the Allegro showroom
  At the Allegro, entertainment is an integral part of the vacation experience. The resort presents five different showroom spectacles each week. Those are Frenesi, Grease, Broadway, One Step Into The Future and a casual evening of silly comedy, skits and pantomime
  Just 4 Fun, each Monday.

• The House of Cheng is opening its doors on
  Saturday, March 17, 2001
  The House of Cheng - at Aruba Golf & Leisure Is proud to announce that it is opening its doors on  Saturday, March 17, 2001.  Serving gourmet Cantonese & Szechwan cuisine.

• Mi Rights . . . Mind, Body & Soul 
  The exhibition at Cas di Cultura is one of the most important cultural event of the last few years. The show, with excellent works of 23 female artists, was put together by a special committee spearheaded by Elvis Lopez

• Vittorio's One-Year Anniversary   
  Press members were invited to a humble luncheon prepared by master chef Vittorio Muscariello at the one year old Hosteria da Vittorio. The formal lunch table was set in the main dining room, with starched linen and gleaming cutlery and stemware.

• Animal Rights Aruba  
  In a press conference at La Cabana All Suite Beach Resort, ARA, Animal Rights Aruba activists introduced themselves to the public under the slogan "We care, we save, we educate." 

• Make a Difference towards a Better Aruba   
  The Brotherhood of Humanity, headquartered in Pleasant Hill Virginia has an Aruban Chapter since 1994 when Robert Leal, a speaker on spiritual subjects brought their message to Aruba.

• Vacationers can now rent a cellular phone while in Aruba
  People visiting Aruba can now rent a cellular phone while on business or vacationing in Aruba.

• Aruba presents Aruba Jazz & Latin Festival 2001
  ATA Marketing's Special Events section is currently finalizing the arrangements for the reintroduction of the Aruba Jazz and Latin Music Festival. For many years, this festival was one of ATA's greatest successes with performances of many world-renowned artists such as Celia Cruz, Carlos Santana, Spyro Gyra, Kenny G, Ruben Blades, the late Tito Puente and many others.

• De Palm Island introduces new concept
  De Palm Island, a subsidiary division within De Palm Holdings, has recently introduced their new concept for the year 2001. The main purpose of this over 1 million-dollar investment, is the enhancement of their services towards their clients.

• Special Committee introduced for the National Flag Day celebrations
  The Council of Ministers established a special committee to enhance the celebrations surrounding Aruba's 25th anniversary of the flag and national anthem celebrations.

• Quota Int'l is proud to have Dr. Deepak Chopra as their main speaker
  The Quota International of Aruba is in full preparations for their upcoming seminar with Dr. Deepak Chopra, a world renowned doctor that focuses in medicine for the body and soul.

• Setar introduced new service "123 INSTANT ACCESS"
  Setar now offers everyone the opportunity to use the Internet without a subscription. This service is very attractive to people who do not have the necessity to subscribe, for example those who do not frequently use the Internet or who reside but for a week or months per year on the island.

• Holiday Inn Aruba becomes a SunSpreeŽ Resort
  This past June, the Holiday Inn Aruba Resort & Casino was awarded the "SunSpreeŽ" status within the Organization of Holiday InnŽ.

• Local Poet featured in Int'l Library of Poetry
  Mrs. Ruthy Vrieswijk-Bergen was pleased when she learned that one of her poetry has been featured in the International Library of Poetry's "Flowering Splendor".

• Aruba will soon have another Marina
  Soon Aruba will have another Marina, as construction is already underway across the street from La Posada Clinic in Oranjestad. The new marine is a project by architect, Richard Eman, who has requested this particular site since 1993.

• MartinAir launches Miami_aruba service on April 5th
  Martinair is launching a new route to a favorite destination for sun seekers, the island of Aruba.

• Tele-Aruba now available on the Internet
  Tele Aruba is now available on the Internet as of January 23, 2001.

• Sonesta launched their New Show
  "Let's go Latin" is the name of the new production launched at the Sonesta Resort's Stardust Theatre.

• Tierra del Sol goes High-Tech
  Tierra del Sol is taking the sport of golf to a new high-tech level with the latest in satellite and computer technology.

• Coastal Refinery has been Sold
  The El Paso Energy Corporation announced yesterday their $24 billion merger with the Coastal Corporation, after the Federal Trade Commission approved this.

• Irreconcilable difference cited for closing Royal Cabana Casino
  Royal Cabana Casino shut its doors Monday [March 5] 12 noon when operator Nathan Katz, Managing Director, Aruba Leisure & Gaming, handed the keys over to owner/landlord Luis Mansur, representing Casa Grande and the original developers of that hotel complex including La Cabana All Suite Beach Resort.

• Flowering trees of Palo di Boonchi and Brasil
  At the start of the dry season many local trees are setting flowers. One of them is the ‘Palo di Boonchi’ (Erythrina velutina). Just like the Kibrahacha (Tabebuia Bilbergii) the tree looses all its leaves and stands only with its flowers, which are orange colored.

• Guiness Book of World records
  I am proud of those guys, said the Minister of Sport, Transportation and Communication, Mr. Glembert Croes. And proud he should be as the handsome foursome managed to put Aruba in the Guinness Book of World Records.

• Friends of the Handicapped make Donations
  Art Stark, President, Friends of the Handicapped had the distinct honor of disbursing funds collected here during the winter season, over Afls 43,000, to charity organizations among them Casa Cuna, Cas Pa Hubentud, Funari, Imeldahof, Fellowship House, the Down Syndrome Foundation and more.

• $AVE in Aruba with the VisitAruba Plus card! 
  Your VisitAruba Plus card is a convenient and effective way to get the most out of your Aruba vacation with significant discounts and special offers on hotel accommodations, car rental, watersports, sailing and party cruises, spa treatments, entertainment, casinos, shopping and more!

• Did You Know That???? 
  

PRICE SMART IS HERE

The Minister Of Tourism and Economic Affairs was the one honored with cutting the ribbon. Dr. Lili Beke’s speech at the opening was short and sweet. Welcome PriceSmart, she said to Vice President Gilbert Partida and investor Ashok Ramchandani. Minister, responded Partida, since your speech has been so to the point, I will vote for you! According to Partida, Price Smart is venturing into the Caribbean opening half a dozen warehouse outlets on different islands. We believe in making money, he explained, only a little bit at the time, giving the consumer a break. The Minister of Justice and his wife, several bankers, suppliers and members of the press also attended the opening party. Price Smart employs many familiar faces among them former employees of Air Aruba. Father Jan of the Dakota church blessed the building. I was confused he bantered, when I saw the building coming up. Who is erecting an extra cathedral in my parish, I asked. Holy water and some words of wisdom followed his light-hearted intro. Partygoers received a souvenir pillow and champagne then the cash registers opened and the TVs and refrigerators started flying out the door . . .

 

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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ATCA

The Aruba Gastronomic Association hosted a tropical fun evening at the Manchebo Beach Resort, at the edge of the beach in the open air pavilion. Guests, fifty six tour operators, ten airlines and over ninety representatives from Aruba's resorts, allied members, support companies, ATA and AHATA officials, enjoyed a vast array of specialties carefully prepared by the members of the association, Aruba's premier restaurants.

The party, hosted in honor of ATCA, the annual Aruba Tourism Conference included food drink and music, by Frahoma. ATCA is an opportunity to meet, discuss and finalize marketing efforts with Aruba's north American partners, explained Horace Horde CEO of AHATA, the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association. After a day-long meeting, ATCA delegates were able to unwind and enjoy assorted sushi rolls and teriyaki steak by Benihana; corncrusted red snapper with pineapple Creole sauce, funchi - Aruban polenta, pan bati - pancake bread, and plantain, by The Captain's Table. Picadillo de Res - ground beef with raisins, olives and spices, Ropa Vieja - old clothes, skirt steak boiled, then shredded and sauteed with tomatoes, onions and garlic, rice, beans and tostones - crunchy green plantain chips, by Cuba's Cooking. Aruba Seafood Tempera by E Piscado; An oriental buffet - hummus, falafel, tahini, taboulhe, babacanush, marinated seafood salad & snails kebab Provencal by Farfalla; Tenderloin tip in wine by the The French Steak House; Keshi yena, cheese stuffed with chicken and raisins, black beans and rice, by Iguana Joe; Chicken Sateh and Quesillo by Le Petit Cafe; Penne al Salmone and Tiramisu by Paparazzi; Manicotti alla Fiorentina by Pavarotti; Seafood chowder by The Old Cunucu House; Garlic picanha and Parmigiana pork by Texas de Brazil; Coconut shrimp by Twinkebones; Eggplant alla Parmigiana and pollo alla Parmigiana by Valentino; Crab and corn chowder and seafood stew Creole by Ventanas del Mar and Caribbean Ceviche by the Waterfront Crabhouse.
The pavilion was beautifully decorated and guests were able to mingle, chat, taste and toast late into the night.

 

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Extraterrestrial trip to the Allegro showroom

At the Allegro, entertainment is an integral part of the vacation experience. The resort's talented crew of dancers and comics who also tend bar, work in the office and orchestrate guest activities present five different showroom spectacles each week. Those are Frenesi, Grease, Broadway, One Step Into The Future and a casual evening of silly comedy, skits and pantomime Just 4 Fun, each Monday.


Diego, Allegro's Director of Entertainment invited some press members to experience the resort's dinner and show on Tuesday. One Step Into The Future has no story line, unlike Grease, which interprets the American classic. One Step Into The Future presents nothing familiar, unlike Broadway and Frenezi, which are filled with popular show-biz tunes. One Step Into The Future is a compilation of fantastic dance pieces, set to Bulgarian and New Age Music, some Deep Forest, some Peter Gabriel. In short it is an alien fantasy happening on a planet buzzing with outlandish characters, lithe acrobatic dancers in breathtaking costumes, glowing in brilliant colors.

The show is the brainchild of beautiful prima ballerina/choreographer Eugenia Kalugina, who is Russian born and trained. Eugenia reveals the images appeared in her head. She envisioned an astronaut space landing in a magical world, then she conceived a trippy extraterrestrial landscape for them to romp and roam. Remember the Star Wars alien bar scene? Eugenia's supernatural world is populated by being plunked right off those stools, stellar porcupines, dancing flowers, leaping rocks, giant Cobra-like serpents, hot-pink and black mosquitoes, blue and yellow bumble bees, and a hunk of a galactic cross-dresser in a glaring yellow gown with sunglasses.

A capable technical crew backs up the extraterrestrial trip as Eugenia creatures actually arrive in fire spitting space ships and leave in futuristic space capsules, which lift off in a cloud of smoke. The comic relief comes in the form of a pair of space goofs; a classic duo of circus clowns in oversize shoes and goggles who weave all show segments together. They swat imaginary stage flies, run around aimlessly and trip endlessly. They assist the dancers with Hasta La Vista the resort's theme song at the end of the show and pose for souvenir snap shots.

Cactus & Bezgo, from Morocco, have a lot of fun doing what they do and the international crew of dancers from Bulgaria, Canada, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Santo Domingo, Tunisia and Russia proves that dance is a universal language, understood and enjoyed by all.

Dinner and show tickets are available via de Palm Tours at all hotels.

 

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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The House of Cheng opening its doors on
Saturday, March 17, 2001

The House of Cheng - at Aruba Golf & Leisure Is proud to announce that it is opening its doors on   Saturday, March 17, 2001.  Serving gourmet Cantonese & Szechwan cuisine.

Lunch - 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Dinner -  6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Open seven days a week
Tel: (297) 864-589

Menu highlights:
Shrimp & Sweet Fruit salad, Spare Ribs in Claypot, Grilled Salmon with Teriyaki sauce, House of Cheng Special Seafood in Clay Pot, Deep Fried Young Chicken, Pan Fried Ostrich with Black Pepper Sauce on hotplate, Braised Crabmeat and Abalone
Mushroom on a bed of Eggnoodles, Fried Rice Yang-Chow Style, Tofu & Vegetable Patties, Broccoli in Garlic Sauce.

Located on Sasakiweg, north of The Mill Resort.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Mi Rights . . . Mind, Body & Soul

The exhibition at Cas di Cultura is one of the most important cultural event of the last few years. The show, with excellent works of 23 female artists, was put together by a special committee spearheaded by Elvis Lopez. The committee set out to commemorate the International Woman’s Day, March 8, 2001.

Elvis, the former Curator of the Instituto di Cultura approached many local artists known and unknown and should be proud of the final outcome. Some artists showing their work have never exhibited before. Some are veterans of many shows. Marlene von Blarken who also works for the Institute of Culture agrees it’s the “Master’s Touch” which made the difference for My Rights . . . Mind, Body & Soul.

The show is visually very pleasing and varied. And it showcases our newly refurbished Cas Di Cultura magnificently. Cas di Cultura was a dowdy, concrete block structure from the ’50. For lack of other addresses concerts and exhibitions found a stage within its uninspiring, tired walls. At the hand of Maria Theresa Madariaga and Renwick Heronimo, the place recently found redemption. Maria Theresa Madariaga, a local artist whose home in Sombre serves as Aruba’s Ethnological museum, is zany and creative with a keen eye for shape and color. She gained previous experience renovating the old Fort Zoutman a number of years ago. Renwick Heronimo is an architect by training, yet his inner-artist won. Having abandoned the designer atelier he now works full time as the curator for Cas di Cultura. The two colorful personalities picked a soothing subdued palate of shades, cacti green, pale yellow, light terracotta and repeated those intermittently on walls and in floor tiles, inside and outside.
The floor mosaic deserves special praise, as broken pieces of color tile turned what was once mundane into a celebration of spiraling energies. The furniture, mostly from the Jungle, bears that store’s signature taste. Couches placed along the foyer walls are very inviting and the coffee tables, weighted down with oversize candleholders create a cozy elegant ambiance. The garden has also undergone a color revolution. Gone is the gray crushed stone. Instead, the walls sport a warm earthy tone and walled flowerbeds contain attractive shrubs and greens. The inner patio is now artistically tiled and is very suited for social gatherings and art show.

My Right . . . Mind, Body and Soul was opened last night. For the first time on the island, an art exhibition with an attractive catalogue. It is for sale at the entrance and serves as a great souvenir. Besides, proceeds from the sale go to Hende Mujer den Difficultad, Women in Difficulty, a foundation dedicated to raise awareness on violence against women. The catalogue designed by Irene Peterson is beautiful. Irene is also responsible for the poster, the invitations and all graphic aspects. She is a single mother of two, also an exhibitor. And her piece is very touching. She obviously uses her childhood pictures and conveys with words and images the struggle to “keep the light in her eye,” in spite of obstacles and life’s ups and downs.

The foyer boasts collaborations of female poets with visual representations by Linda Schnog, an athlete and a longtime member of the Women’s Club of Aruba. Linda, known for her capable hands – her Christmas decorations always get snatched first at the holiday bazaar – puts verses in very attractive displays.
In general photography is especially strong. Diane Keijzer of Discount Photo has her work included. An American-born health-care professional, she came to the island on vacation, fell in love with a local second-generation photographer, got married and picked up his craft. Her treatment of pregnancy is whimsical. Glenda Diaz-Wever’s treatment of an old beggar woman is tragic and heartbreaking. Greta Williams photographs are moody and evocative.

Rhona Lemminga a former model and beauty queen who springs from an artistic family created a gorgeous hand beaded mannequin ball gown. Eliza Lejuez introduced digital work and Desiree Sporkslede, who is trained as an artist but gained more fame as a glamour girl and marketing director for a new ISP brings computer power point presentations. Notably, the exhibition also includes works by three of Aruba’s award winning forerunners, Alida Martinez, Osaira Muyale and Nancy Hernandez.

Special thanks to the 29 sponsors who help keep the exhibition going to March 30th. With the high cost of rent – Afls 600 per day for the Cas di Cultura - and other related expenses, the Aruban public is rarely treated to a show that good. Please support.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Vittorio's One-Year Anniversary

Press members were invited to a humble luncheon prepared by master chef Vittorio Muscariello at the one year old Hosteria da Vittorio. The formal lunch table was set in the main dining room, with starched linen and gleaming cutlery and stemware.

Vittorio prepared some delicious Italian prosciutto, sliced coppa and salami, fresh rosemary flavored focaccia bread, a rich seafood broth with mussels, clams and baby octopus, thinly pounded veal with mushrooms and a triple deck tiramisu, chased by bottomless glasses and wine, coffee and grappa.

The press was impressed as the food was simply sensational. In his pre-meal address Vittorio reiterated his total dedication to authentic taste and presentation. His approach is holistic he said, as every detail from ingredients to cooking utensils, decor and table setting is true-blue Italian, and the cooking methods used in the exhibition kitchen at Vittorio's are traditional ones.

Vittorio also announced the fact that after 25 years of kitchen experience he recently received a medal as Maestro di Cocinas, bestowed in Rome at the Conferimento Onorificenza al Merito Professionale organized by the Associazione Professionale Cuochi Italiani, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Italian cuisine on national and international levels. Helping him collect his medal, restaurant co-owners architect Dan Oduber and partner Coby Alders.

Apparently an inspector of ORPI, Order of Professional Italian Restaurateurs visited Aruba, inspected Vittorio's and qualified him as one of 360 Ambassador of Italian Gastronomy around the world. Vittorio is the only proud recipient in Aruba, the Caribbean and South America, except Brazil which boasts an ORPI sanctioned restaurant in San Paolo. No wonder Vittorio's food is so spectacular. His family has been cooking professionally for over 75 years and they still own the original old restaurant in Gaeta, Italy. Vittorio has the genius of Italian cooking running in his veins.

Selma Kelly who is a tireless dedicated professional, oversaw the impeccable service in the dining room. Sandy Oduber a minority partner, Dan's pretty baby-daughter informed that shortly a bakery, pastry shop, pizza parlor and ice cream shop will
open adjacent to the restaurant, under the stars on the patio to add a casual eatery to the elegant, nicely appointed complex.
A party commemorating opening day is scheduled for the coming Sunday with a select group of VIP and government officials in
attendance.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Animal Rights

In a press conference at La Cabana All Suite Beach Resort, ARA, Animal Rights Aruba activists introduced themselves to the public under the slogan "We care, we save, we educate."

They are Patty Portier, President, Manuel Ruiz, Vice President, Peer Bastians, Secretary, Giny Ossel, Treasurer and Margie Mans, Public Relations. The team also publishes the tri-lingual magazine TAILS - Dutch/Papiamento/English, which answers questions such as why cats purr, debates the merits of the government's upcoming plan to control the stray dog populations, tells stories about animal lovers living on the island and reports on suffering victims successfully saved and available for adoption. The magazine is available for sale for a nominal fee at all gas stations.

On March 25th, the team will be leading a fund raising dog wash, at Afls 10 per pet. It also has plans to approach the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association asking members to allow them to place a collection box in their lobbies with money going towards the formation of an ARA Animal Welfare Control Unit. ARA works closely with the local vets and the animal shelter.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Make a Difference towards a Better Aruba

The Brotherhood of Humanity, headquartered in Pleasant Hill Virginia has an Aruban Chapter since 1994 when Robert Leal, a
speaker on spiritual subjects brought their message to Aruba.

Two of the Brotherhood's members entrepreneur / restaurant manager Gladys Croes, she helped create Gasparito restaurant, and health care professional Rugia Coffie, she works at Horacio Oduber hospital, would like to invite members of the community to a fundraising event in the Caribbean ballroom, Radisson Aruba Resort & Casino, April 7, 2001, 7:30 p.m.

The Brotherhood's philosophy, they explain, is based upon a series of spiritual teachings. According to those, members should do their outmost to live in harmony with all parts of creation and to be positive examples in the community. The Brotherhood has approximately 70 members in Aruba. Those members took it upon themselves to make the island and the world a better
place. How? By being respectful, is the answer. By living in harmony with family members and friends, by practicing tolerance and understanding and by becoming role models for people to look up to.

We're all children of God Gladys explains, there's light and Good inside us. And we should direct ourselves to that light. We must
be able to view the world positively, she continues, and detach from criticism and harsh words. Naturally the ego and the
personality occasionally get in the way - bad habits are hard to break - but we have to learn to control ourselves and restore inner
peace and balance.

Gladys and Rugia do not wish to distance themselves from the turbulent world, they feel they are very much part of it. By living to
higher moral standards, by walking the walk not just by talking the talk, their households, neighborhoods, society at large and the universe in general will become a better place. The Brotherhood does not seek converts, it invites people to workshop and special events where they are naturally attracted, not drawn by promotion.

On a more realistic note Gladys & Rugia say they are responsible for the future of this country. Our actions, they add, even more
important our in-actions - what we don't do - determine the quality of our lives. If we disrespect our leaders and our government,
they will learn to disrespect us. If we don't get involved, things won't happen to our liking.

Thus in the spirit of spreading the message the Brotherhood is organizing a special fund raising event. True to the adage that
solutions come from within, the evening will not feature a foreign key note speaker. It will introduce Gladys Croes talking from the
heart to an audience of ticket holders from her community. The funds raised will be earmarked to help eventually build an
educational center. Call Rugia Coffie, #880921 or Roy Winterdaal, #847996, for tickets.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Vacationers can now rent a cellular phone while in Aruba

People visiting Aruba can now rent a cellular phone while on business or vacationing in Aruba. ICRent is a company that offers the rental of a cellular, which includes International long distance coverage, no incoming calls charge and clear access, from one day to up to several months. For additional information, please contact them at tel.: (287)838607 or e-mail: icraruba@hotmail.com.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Aruba presents Aruba Jazz & Latin Festival 2001

DATA Marketing's Special Events section is currently finalizing the arrangements for the reintroduction of the Aruba Jazz and Latin Music Festival. For many years, this festival was one of ATA's greatest successes with performances of many world-renowned artists such as Celia Cruz, Carlos Santana, Spyro Gyra, Kenny G, Ruben Blades, the late Tito Puente and many others. After a couple of years the Aruba Jazz and Latin Music Festival is once again ready to present some of the best in Jazz.

The festival is scheduled for the last weekend of June 29 & 30, 2001 in the Don Elias Mansur Ballpark. The entrance cost per night will be $30,- The Aruba Tourism Authority is also planning to invite some of the top press members from USA, Puerto Rico, Latin America and Europe, as this promises to become one of the greatest festivals for the year 2001.

For additional information, please contact Special Events at (297) 823777 ext 239 or e-mail: a.boekhoudt@toaruba.com. Please be advised that the line-up is subject to change.

The line-up will include performers such as:

Friday, June 29, 2001                         Saturday, June 30, 2001
Local Act                                               Local Act
Biela D'Costa                                         Caribbean Jazz Project
Chucho Valdez                                       Norman Brown




[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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De Palm Island introduces NEW concept

De Palm Island, a subsidiary division within De Palm Holdings, has recently introduced their new concept for the year 2001. The main purpose of this over 1 million-dollar investment, is the enhancement of their services towards their clients.

The new concept consists of two new services: The "Sea Trek", an underwater park where people can enjoy the beauties of Aruba's underwater world in a different way and the "all inclusive" system, where the visitor (both adults and children) can enjoy all the services on the island. This will include meals and drinks, transfers to and from the island for one price.

Based on their extensive experience within the all-inclusive business, Divi Phoenix will assist De Palm Island as their consultant. One of De Palm Island's targets for this year is the local market, offering a special all-inclusive price only for locals. These new concepts will be available as of May 2001.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

 

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Special Committee for the National Flag Day Celebrations

The Council of Ministers established a special committee to enhance the celebrations surrounding Aruba's 25th anniversary of the flag and national anthem celebrations. The emphasis is placed on a general clean up of the island.

The first two projects already took place during Carnival. During the week of March 5-11, another clean up campaign will take place in the district of Madiki. For March 18th, the committee will also introduce incentives for the entire Aruban community to beautify the area around their homes.

The committee consists of representatives of WEB, Elmar, Setar, DOW, Serlimar, Kooltemp and Aruba Bunita.

 

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

 

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Quota Int'l will have Dr. Deepak Chopra as Guest Speaker

The Quota International of Aruba is in full preparations for their upcoming seminar with Dr. Deepak Chopra, a world renowned doctor that focuses in medicine for the body and soul. Dr. Chopra has been recognized by the Times Magazine as one of the most influential persons of the last century, together with persons such as Einstein, Gandhi, and Wright Brothers etc.

Dr. Chopra is also the writer of more than 25 books, including the best seller "How to know God" which has sold over 10 million copies. The seminar will take place on May 24, 2001 at the Wyndham Aruba and promises to become a total success.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Setar introduces NEW "123 Instant Access"

Setar now offers everyone the opportunity to use the Internet without a subscription. This service is very attractive to people who do not have the necessity to subscribe, for example those who do not frequently use the Internet or who reside but for a week or months per year on the island. The procedure to access this service is easy. All one needs is a computer, a modem, Netscape or Internet Explorer software and a phone line. To access this new service follow these simple steps:

ˇ    Click on the "My computer" icon
ˇ    Click on "Dialup Networking"
ˇ    Choose "Make a new connection"
ˇ    Click on "Next"
ˇ    Fill in "123" in the space for number
ˇ    Click on "Finish"
ˇ    Double-check these changes in the "My connection" menu
ˇ    The choice "connect to" will appear
ˇ    Click on "Connect"
ˇ    The connection is established

Open your browser and you are ready to surf. If you wish to create your address for electronic mail, just fill out the address (URL):123.setarnet.aw and follow the instructions to create your own ID and password. And to log in to receive and send e-mail, use UserID@123.setarnet.aw. For people sending you e-mail, your address is: UserID@123.setarnet.aw.

The cost for the new service is of Afl 0,20 per minute. The cost will be billed on your telephone bill. For additional information, please contact them at (297) 820404.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Holiday Inn Aruba becomes a SunSpreeŽ Resort

This past June, the Holiday Inn Aruba Resort & Casino was awarded the "SunSpree" status within the Organization of Holiday Inn. This change in status means that the resort has been upgraded with additional resort services and amenities not found in typical Holiday Inn properties. The Holiday Inn SunSpree Aruba Resort has added the ultimate in personal care and beauty - the Intermezzo Day Spa.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Local Poet featured in Int'l Library of Poetry

Mrs. Ruthy Vrieswijk-Bergen was pleased when she learned that one of her poetry has been featured in the International Library of Poetry's "Flowering Splendor".

It all stared when Ruthy, who is always busy writing special dedications, decided to participate in a contest organized by the Intl. Library of Poetry. Her poem "True Friendship" did not win a money prize, however they requested her permission to publish the poem in a book published by the library.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Aruba will soon have another Marina

Soon Aruba will have another Marina, as construction is already underway across the street from La Posada Clinic in Oranjestad.

The new marine is a project by architect, Richard Eman, who has requested this particular site since 1993. "This has always been my dream" said Mr. Eman. While the final details of the yet-to-be-named building are still being drawn, work is currently being done on the foundation. The building will sit a short distance from the beach on the same line as the surrounding edifices.

The pier will accommodate a total of 25 yachts and will stretch out some 30 to 40 meters out to the sea. The project will cost approximately 2 million florins and completion is expected by the end of this year.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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MartinAir launches Miami-Aruba service on
April 5th

Martinair is launching a new route to a favorite destination for sun seekers, the island of Aruba. The airline will offer non-stop flights aboard spacious, wide-body 767 aircraft from Miami to Aruba twice weekly on Thursday and Saturday year round. The service, with start-up fares as low as $290,- roundtrip from Miami is sure to be popular among these looking for a reasonably priced and easy-to-get-to destination that is only hours away.

Aruba marks Martinair's second foray into tropical destinations from the US. The tourist and national market are eager to take advantage of Martinair's low spectacular specials. The company will use a Boeing 767 with a Starclass (Business Class) that holds 24 seats, an economy class with 248 seats and the number of seat capacity on the new Europe route is of a 50%.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Tele Aruba now available on the Internet

Tele Aruba is now available on the Internet as of January 23, 2001. People from around the world can now enjoy the different programs offered by the T.V. station on a daily basis.

To see more of this new website, please visit www.telearuba.aw or contact them at (297) 851258.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Sonesta launched their new show

"Let's go Latin" is the name of the new production launched the end of February at the Sonesta Resort's Stardust Theatre. Twenty lithe dancers, flown in from Havana, Cuba will dance and perform an unforgettable extravaganza.

The choreography is in the hands of Mr. Tomas Morales, one of the best art directors in Cuba. The show will consist of 178 costume changes, with 10 people constantly helping the dancers change clothes in the dressing room. Lazaro Abraham, who is one of the best in the business, has designed all the luxurious costumes.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Tierra del Sol goes High-Tech

Tierra del Sol is taking the sport of golf to a new high-tech level with the latest in satellite and computer technology. As of February 5th, the popular 18-hole PGA championship course started installation of the Par view GPS system, a one-of-a-kind satellite network that is designed to enhance the golfing experience, while enabling the resort to improve overall course operations, efficiency and service to the guest.

One of the very first courses in the Caribbean to utilize the Par view technology, Tierra del Sol is proud to be a member of an elite group of golf courses. Each of Tierra del Sol's golf carts will be equipped with a satellite dish and a 10.4" color screen. Some of the features to look forward to include graphic hole and green overviews; exact distancing from the cart to the center of the green; exact pin placement for each day; electronic scoring; two-way communication with the clubhouse; food and beverage ordering from the cart to the grill and pro tips.

Tierra del Sol is committed to continually improving and updating the entire resort and golf course, and is proud to be considered an asset to the island of Aruba. The addition of this new state-of-the-art technology should prove to be an extraordinary marketing tool for both the golf course and the island of Aruba


[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Coastal Refinery has been Sold

The El Paso Energy Corporation announced yesterday their $24 billion merger with the Coastal Corporation, after the Federal Trade Commission approved this.

El Paso is an enterprise, valued at over $ 50 billion and is the fourth largest US energy company. The proceeds from these sales are expected to total approximately $243 million and will be used to pay down debt and to fund growth opportunities for the company.

According to Minister Robertico Croes, Minister of Finance, the current contract will expire in two years but he doesn't expect any major changes for Aruba. No other specific information was released.

[courtesy of Nathalie Fingal-Maduro for ATA]

  

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Irreconcilable difference cited for closing the Royal Cabana Casino

Royal Cabana Casino shut its doors Monday [March 5] 12 noon when operator Nathan Katz, Managing Director, Aruba Leisure & Gaming, handed the keys over to owner/landlord Luis Mansur, representing Casa Grande and the original developers of that hotel complex including La Cabana All Suite Beach Resort.

The Royal Cabana Casino was first open in 1992 and was operated by Luis Mansur and Blackjack Casino. At the end of 1995 the casino was taken over by Aruba Leisure & Gaming partners Norbert Aleman and Nathan Katz, both familiar operators on the island.

Norbert Aleman, a show producer from Las Vegas had his show here, the Jewel Box Revue playing at the Tropicana Showroom. Nathan Katz was the Vice President of Global Casino operating Casino Masquerade, at Aruba Caribbean Hotel. Both Aleman & Katz teamed up to manage the Royal Cabana Casino and indeed over the past 6 years they introduced many changes to the facility and entertained many thousands of tourists and locals. The Jewel Box Revue starring La Cage was in its 10th successful year, the popular Seafood Buffet and the Baccarat restaurants offered quality meals at a good value, the Cigar Boutique the upgraded slot machines and the many varied table games all made the Royal Cabana Casino a Mecca of nocturnal activities.

According to Nathan Katz, in 1999, the Royal Cabana Casino had asked to renegotiate its lease agreement with the owner/landlord. The negotiations later proceeded with the timeshare owners association, La Cabana All Suite Beach Resort Coop, yet while the process looked successful for a while, Katz reports that at the end Aruba Leisure & Gaming felt that the agreement reached was too severe and too detrimental to the viable operations of the casino. I had no choice but hand over the keys, he told the press, not before talking to my employees and explaining the situation to them.

In a press conference at the Radisson Aruba Resort & Casino Ruby Room, Nathan Katz expressed his gratitude to the staff of the Royal Cabana Casino. As Aruba Leisure and Gaming is no longer operating the Royal Cabana Casino, all employees are terminated. My home is here, Katz reiterated, my kids love it here, and I am staying to take care of my obligations to the best of my ability.

Observers report that meanwhile Luis Mansur and a team made up of former employees and newly recruited casino executives has taken over the casino with the intention of opening it as soon as possible. Employees collecting their personal effects today were all asked to fill in new work applications.

Against the backdrop of 11 casinos on the island, with tough competition and substantial operational costs the story of the Royal Cabana Casino is a familiar one. As the market is changing, conditions are changing, both operators and owners are often asked to stretch, concessions are called for. As differences between the parties couldn't be reconciled and negotiated, the Royal Cabana Casino, as we now know it is gone. We're looking forward to its new incarnation.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

  

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Flowering trees of Palo di Boonchi and Brasil

At the start of the dry season many local trees are setting flowers. One of them is the ‘Palo di Boonchi’ (Erythrina velutina). Just like the Kibrahacha (Tabebuia Bilbergii) the tree looses all its leaves and stands only with its flowers, which are orange colored. In the dry season people can recognize the ‘Palo di boonchi’ by its thick trunk with corkish appearance and covered by small thick thorns.

The flowers have orange petals, are 5 cm. long and stand at the end of the branches. The ‘Palo di boonchi’ is one of the endemic species of Aruba, but only 30 to 40 trees are known to grow in the wilderness. On the American continent it is found from Panama to Brazil. The timber of this tree is very light, whereas it was used a lot in the local fishery. The tree is also considered to possess medicinal qualities. Besides the ‘Palo di boonchi’ there are other Erythrinas flowering in the local gardens, but these have different flowers, that are red colored.

Department of Agriculture, Husbandry and Fisheries (DLVVM) has 4 trees of ‘Palo di Boonchi’ in its garden at Piedra Plat #114 A, between the Protestant Church and the Piedra Plat bridge. The trees are on the brink of flowering and can be seen by the public during office hours. It is advisable to call in advance at tel.: 856473.

Those who like to see them in the wild can look for them at
Shidaharaca in the National Park Arikok. These trees are rare so
everyone is advised not to damage them.

Another tree type that also is flowering at this moment is Brasil
(Haematoxylon brasiletto).

click here to read more ...

[courtesy of DLVVM, section of Natural Resources, Facundo Franken]

  

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Guiness Book of World records

I am proud of those guys, said the Minister of Sport, Transportation and Communication, Mr. Glembert Croes. And proud he should be as the handsome foursome managed to put Aruba in the Guinness Book of World Records. The four Aruban businessmen, all avid golf players, traveled to Sweden where they played 24-hour nonstop golf at the Ronnbacken Club in Skelleftea. They picked Sweden for its 24-light conditions, yet underestimated the climate.

The temperature dropped to 2 degrees, they recall, and it was bitter cold out on the course. Originally the plan was to play best ball, but they ended up playing individually, over 290 holes. Are they going back? Yes, we are, they jointly declare. The idea this time is to play 24-hour to maintain the world record, then play additional holes for charity.

The reception in Sweden was very warm and the newspaper coverage enthusiastic, says Leddy, John's wife who was his caddy through the night. We thought we would wave them goodbye and crawl into our cozy hotel rooms, she banters, but instead we stayed up for the duration, supporting their efforts, making notes, singing to keep them from falling asleep.

In the picture Piet van Schaijk, hotelier, Amsterdam Manor, Harold Hagens, dentist, John Neophytou, hotelier, and Daniel Kameier, restaurateur, Flying Fishbone, receiving congratulations from the Minister, at the pool bar of the Amsterdam Manor Hotel. Special thanks are also due to the other wives: Lidy, Annie and Sophie, who made the feat possible.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

       

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Friends of the Handicapped make Donations

Art Stark, President, Friends of the Handicapped had the distinct honor of disbursing funds collected here during the winter season, over Afls 43,000, to charity organizations among them Casa Cuna, Cas Pa Hubentud, Funari, Imeldahof, Fellowship House, the Down Syndrome Foundation and more.

In an emotional gathering over Pizza and delicious sandwiches at Casa Del Mar - nicely prepared by La Gondola Restaurant, the
winterbirds of Friends of the Handicapped, visitors to the island during the high-season, watched their president hand out envelopes to charity organizations supporting the blind, the physically challenged and many organizations in support of underprivileged kids.

Most of the organizations are repeat beneficiaries and they all expressed their wish to be included again next year and congratulated FOH members for their outstanding community work.  FOH has about 2 dozen active members. The organizations throws a Superbowl mega party each year, conducts raffles, collects gifts in the community which are then converted into cash for charity. Vacationing at Casa Del Mar & Aruba Beach Club, at the end of the winter, they all go home to the U.S.

[courtesy of Rona Coster]

       

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$AVE in Aruba!

Your VisitAruba Plus card is a convenient and effective way to get the most out of your Aruba vacation with significant discounts and special offers on hotel accommodations, car rental, watersports, sailing and party cruises, spa treatments, entertainment, casinos, shopping and more!

The 2001 card is being offered at a price of just US$10 plus shipping & handling! You can even ask for your card to be delivered to your hotel to be ready for you once you arrive in Aruba.

A night at one of the hotels, a meal at one of the participating restaurants, or a trip to one of the participating shops is all it takes to recover the price of your VisitAruba Plus card. In most cases, by using your card just once only, you will have recovered the cost, and after that it's pure savings over and over again since you can use it as many times as you like and always receive the discounts.

As a cardmember you will receive your personalized VisitAruba Plus card. Present your card at participating locations to take advantage of discounts and special offers. The 2000 card is valid for UNLIMITED USE until December 1st, 2001. For more details and ordering, see the VisitAruba Plus section.

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