Carnival Destiny says to Aruba … Hasta la Vista, Baby … Aruba tourism Take another Hit

 

Its a black letter day, or should we say black T-shirt day in Aruba. More disastrous economic news for Aruba … Carnival Destiny moors for the last time in Aruba. We are sure that will add to a prosperous 2007. All do not seem happy on “One Happy Island”.

Hasta-la-vista-baby

Businessman René Zaandam organized a ‘mourning day’ as symbolic protest and called on everybody in the tourist sector to wear a black T-shirt today. Did the t-shirts look like this?

 A symbolic action, he admits.  “By introducing the bbo, this government made it clear that protesting means nothing.  They still do what they want and are not concerned about the tourism receiving a blow.  This is high season and yet there are days with no cruise ships in the harbour.” 

BlackShirtMonkeys

(Hat Tip Klaas: Commemorative “Destiny” Black Monkey T-shirt)

Aruba looses an important source of income with the leaving of this big cruise ship.  He is of the opinion that Tourism-minister, Edison Briesen  (MEP) has dropped a big clanger by not doing anything to keep the Carnival Destiny for Aruba.  “He knew already, since August of 2005, that the shipping company that owns this cruise ship was planning to stop calling in at the port of Aruba.  He pretended in March of 2006 that he knew nothing and in June he said that he would do something.  It didn’t help.” (Amigoe) 

So what will the losses represent to Aruba? But the loss of $200,000 will be spun as some how being a great advantage to Aruba. This must be part of  PM Nelson Oduber’s continues productive 2006.

Zaandam calculates the revenue that Aruba misses out on.  “Cruise passengers on ships of the caliber of Carnival Destiny spend an average of one-hundred dollars when they are in Aruba.  This cruise ship accommodates an average of 2000 passengers, which means a source of income of about 200.000 dollars per week years after years.”

The reason being that Carnival will no linger go to Aruba is gas prices, really? That’s funny Destiny_canivallast time we checked the price of oil was below $55 a barrel.  Aruba will spin the loss of the cruise ship Destiny as a net gain of three new ships that will port in Aruba. What they will not tell people is the fact that size matters, not the number of ships. Nor will they discuss the fact that not all cruise ship passengers are created equal, ie have the same spending habits. Look on the bright side Aruba, you still have white bread. At least for the time being.

Aruba Ports Authority (APA) announced last year November that three new cruise ships will call in at Aruba in 2007.  On Amigoe’s question whether these three ships will fill the gap left behind by Carnival Destiny, Zaandam reacted that it’s not the number of ships that is important, but the number of passengers and the amount of money they spend in Aruba.  “The new cruise ships have Aruba as pick-up point.  Thus their passengers fly to Aruba, arrive late in the afternoon, and leave port in the evening.  “These passengers won’t spend money on excursions in Aruba, because they do not want to miss their flight.  Besides the passenger on these cruises won’t have that much money to spend like the ones on Carnival Destiny.” 

Read the full story, Amigoe: January 5, 2007 Carnival Destiny says goodbye to Aruba 

 

ORANJESTAD – Cruise ship Carnival Destiny moored for the last time in the harbour of Aruba.  Businessman René Zaandam regrets the leaving of the cruise ship and organized a ‘mourning day’ as symbolic protest.   He called on everybody in the tourist sector to wear a black T-shirt today. 

“It’s a very sad day for the economy”, said Zaandam.  In his point of view, Aruba looses an important source of income with the leaving of this big cruise ship.  He is of the opinion that Tourism-minister, Edison Briesen (MEP) has dropped a big clanger by not doing anything to keep the Carnival Destiny for Aruba.  “He knew already, since August of 2005, that the shipping company that owns this cruise ship was planning to stop calling in at the port of Aruba.  He pretended in March of 2006 that he knew nothing and in June he said that he would do something.  It didn’t help.”  

Zaandam calculates the revenue that Aruba misses out on.  “Cruise passengers on ships of the caliber of Carnival Destiny spend an average of one-hundred dollars when they are in Aruba.  This cruise ship accommodates an average of 2000 passengers, which means a source of income of about 200.000 dollars per week years after years.”

According to Zaandam, the cruise ship company indicated that they can no longer call in at Aruba, due to the high fuel prices.  It’s such a pity that the minister had done nothing to eliminate this argument.  “Look at the recent development with Valero, for whom the government had fixed an exception so they can pay less bbo.  Wasn’t that also possible with Carnival Destiny?  The minister could have stipulated that big cruise ships with at least 2000 passengers that call in at Aruba every week, would have the advantage of lower fuel price.”  This way, the minister could have procured that big ships with passengers that spend money, continue to call in at Aruba. 

Aruba Ports Authority (APA) announced last year November that three new cruise ships will call in at Aruba in 2007.  On Amigoe’s question whether these three ships will fill the gap left behind by Carnival Destiny, Zaandam reacted that it’s not the number of ships that is important, but the number of passengers and the amount of money they spend in Aruba.  “The new cruise ships have Aruba as pick-up point.  Thus their passengers fly to Aruba, arrive late in the afternoon, and leave port in the evening.  “These passengers won’t spend money on excursions in Aruba, because they do not want to miss their flight.  Besides the passenger on these cruises won’t have that much money to spend like the ones on Carnival Destiny.” 

Zaandam stood in the harbour of Oranjestad, dressed in a black T-shirt.  He had called on tour operators, bus drivers, taxi drivers, sales persons and owners of souvenir stores, members of shopkeepers’ association Mambo, and everybody that works in the tourist sector of Aruba to mourn the leaving of Carnival Destiny.

A symbolic action, he admits.  “By introducing the bbo, this government made it clear that protesting means nothing.  They still do what they want and are not concerned about the tourism receiving a blow.  This is high season and yet there are days with no cruise ships in the harbour.” 



If you liked this post, you may also like these:

  • Aruba: One Sad Island
  • Amigoe: Conference tourism; new for Aruba
  • Aruba: Prime Minister Nelson Oduber Transfers Power to 2008 carnival Prince Hala Kita and Pancho Pa Nos Pasa
  • Amigoe: Aruban Minister Briesen of Tourism negligent
  • Airlines Expand Schedules to the Caribbean and little Attention given to Aruba




  • Comments

    154 Responses to “Carnival Destiny says to Aruba … Hasta la Vista, Baby … Aruba tourism Take another Hit”

    1. Richard on January 6th, 2007 1:10 pm

      Didn’t this news come out last summer? I seem to remember something about it, so it’s not a bolt from the blue.

      In any case … HIP HIP, HOORAY! Let’s hope that other cruise ship companies take the cue and do likewise.

      And let’s hope this gives new life to the boycott-Aruba movement … are you listening, JetBlue?

    2. Scared Monkeys on January 6th, 2007 1:30 pm

      Yes, Richard … this was the final docking of the boat in Aruba.

      Just making sure carnival does what they say and stand behind their words.

      R

    3. weasel on January 6th, 2007 2:40 pm

      the shit continues to hit the fan Aruba wake up down there.

    4. mayan_moons on January 6th, 2007 3:01 pm

      Its a wise decision Carnival Destiny has made cutting Aruba off as a port of call, i commend them. Who wants to be tethered to the sinking ship Aruba? No one does if they want to make a profit and maintain their own good name.

    5. vicki on January 6th, 2007 3:14 pm

      If I were you LIERUBA, I would start hoarding white bread….for the spinners here from AHATA, maybe you should see about a raise as you will surely be working more hours… I pray kelmal is still reading here….this is for it..hahahahahahahahahahahaha

    6. Carpe Noctem on January 6th, 2007 3:42 pm

      This is what happens when you
      fail to put cold blooded murderers
      and gangrapers in jail where they belong.

      Pieces of sh like Paulus and Joran Van der Rapist -
      & Deepak and Satish Kalpoe… They drag all of
      the decent people down chute with ‘em.

      To Recap:
      Nobody Is Going To Aruba

      http://tinyurl.com/rjfka

      You’d have to be an idiot to witness
      what the drugging, gangraping, murdering Van
      der Rapists and Kalpoes did to Natalee
      and her family & still want to go.

      …ARUBA, you have your resident
      psychopaths to thank for this.

      ARUBA = DEATH

      -J4N

    7. walter on January 6th, 2007 4:03 pm

      “He knew already, since August of 2005, that the shipping company that owns this cruise ship was planning to stop calling in at the port of Aruba

      Decision had nothing to do with Holloway or “boycott”

    8. nychic on January 6th, 2007 4:13 pm

      Aruba Will Really Take A Hit From This
      Here Is Why:

      Aruba Was One Of The Only Ports Where
      This Ship Did Not Depart Until 11:00 p.m.

      Therefore – Not Only Were They Making Money
      On Tourists Shopping And Partying On The Island
      Until Late Into The Evening – But The Port Authority
      Was Also Raking In Cash For Each Hour This Ship Was Docked

      Since Aruba Is Raising Taxes – I Would Be Willing To
      Bet That The Port Taxes Will Go Up As Well And All Ships
      Currently Docking There Will Start Departing Earlier -

    9. mayan_moons on January 6th, 2007 4:25 pm

      Hey Carpe!

      Great news isn’t it…..and the best part is that Carnival Destiny has monitored the way Aruba does things for a year now & have deemed Aruba Unworthy to do business with anymore.

      I’m sure many others have been doing the same and asking themselves if they want to self destruct the way Aruba has.

    10. mayan_moons on January 6th, 2007 4:32 pm

      Hey to you too nychic!

      It means so much to them to say their misfortune isn’t related to Natalee doesn’t it? hahaha

      I said it before: Aruban’s could have their head on fire
      and still claim they smell no smoke!

    11. Patti on January 6th, 2007 4:39 pm

      Gee… I wonder:

      If the ships leave earlier and there isn’t as much drugging
      going on at Carlos and Charlies… fewer victims.

      “We did it all the time…

      I’d say 20 times…

      and Yes… we had sex…

      it was so easy…”

      Predators.

    12. robots on January 6th, 2007 4:41 pm

      aruba blows

    13. nychic on January 6th, 2007 4:53 pm

      If Cruise Passengers Are Spending The Amounts
      Suggested By Zaandam – This Revenue Is Not
      Necessarily Going To The Economy of Aruba -

      Many Cruise Passengers Do Not Eat Dinner On
      The Islands Since All Food Is Included On The Ship -

      Aruba’s Gift Shops Are Not That Great – Trust Me -
      They Do Not Even Compare To Shopping In Other Ports
      Such As St.Thomas –

      So, If Passengers Are Spending Money –
      It Is Likely In Places Like Carlos n Charlies
      or the Casinos in the Seaport – Both of Which are
      Owned by Outside Parties in Mexico and the Netherlands -
      which is where the Majority of that Revenue will go

    14. WorldJOURNIER on January 6th, 2007 5:38 pm

      * On May 9, 2006 ARUBAAN’s news-source “Tradewinds Times” reported,

      “Carnival’s decision to scrap Aruba will result in a lost of some 146,000 cruise passenger arrivals on the island annually. Carnival Destiny is one of two cruise ships that visits Aruba year round including the low-season, benefiting commerce in Oranjestad.”

      http://members.aol.com/WorldJOURNIER/NATALEE/NATALEEtimeline.html

      The Natalee Holloway Timeline of Persons, Known Crimes Suspects & Outright Lies

    15. JusticeforNatalee on January 6th, 2007 6:28 pm

      The message is clear:

      Don’t go to Aruba.
      If something happens to you, nothing will be done about it.

    16. Allan K on January 6th, 2007 6:40 pm

      Just don’t understand nobody is willing to prosecute the pimps. Somebody in power has got to be holding this mess together. What about Bachus and the money he received from Aruba? What happened with that? What of Devries and the crack Dutch cops? What about the FBI, not much comment either. What about Stratten crooked cop that was retiring but yet goes some other island to do his thing. Besides the cover up that was in plain view on TV nothing has been done. No justice whatsoever.
      That ugly Sieve Croes lying about alibi for pimps and they never do anything to him. One or many American tourist mean nothing to them.

    17. Tibrogargan on January 6th, 2007 7:00 pm

      #14 WorldJOURNIER – this is great work and is an excellent reference point. Maybe you need to send your timeline contact to Phil the Dill so he can get his facts straight.

    18. linda on January 6th, 2007 7:06 pm

      Ok this has ofcourse nothing to do with Natalee..I know you all would like to believe that..but no..But this has to do with our STUPID STUPID government..the situation in Aruba is bad right now..with less tourism..bbo etc..so letting Carnival go its the stupidest decision they have ever made..I Really do not get these people..things must change soon here otherwise we are in deep shit..

    19. Patti on January 6th, 2007 7:13 pm

      Thank you, World Journier.

    20. 2amforsure on January 6th, 2007 7:14 pm

      What is it with these Dutch islands, are they all this rotten? I ran across a website, http://www.sxmprivateeye.com, which exposes higher ups in the government of St Maarten which unfortunately sounds like another version of Aruba, same tactics, no action, same answers, blah blah blah. I certainly admire whoever has the nerve to bring this to light, Aruba take note!

    21. mayan_moons on January 6th, 2007 7:30 pm

      hahaha well whatever the reason it still sucks for aruba don’t it

    22. Big Lou on January 6th, 2007 8:26 pm

      Allan K: I agree. No matter what has happened in Aruba we have not even got ONE answer and I don’t think we ever will. At this point it is very hard not to be negative but Aruba just does NOT care.

    23. Patti on January 6th, 2007 8:38 pm

      Linda (#18):

      Although we have people coming here reading and posting everyday, many of them don’t see just how bad it is in Aruba right now… much less talk about it, But the truth is that many Arubans believe that their government is on its last leg and will soon fall because of all the corruption. Do you get that sense?

      Do you remember what Beth did when she was in Aruba?

      She made “Natalee” bracelets with the children

      We don’t want to hurt the people of Aruba, we want the same thing that you want:

      Justice

      Liberty

      Freedom

      Boycott, Aruba… or else.

    24. Corinthians on January 6th, 2007 8:41 pm

      Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. ® (NYSE: HOT) and Belfonti Capital Partners today announce the re-flagging of the 481-room Aruba Resort Spa & Casino as The Westin ® Aruba Resort. The hotel has completed the first phase of its $24 million renovation, designed to offer guests a captivating resort experience, exquisite dining and dazzling ocean views.

      White sand beaches and clear ocean waters make Aruba the ideal escape for sun-bound vacationers seeking the perfect spot for relaxation and personal renewal. Located on 7.5 acres of beachfront property in the Palm Beach area north of Oranjestad, The Westin Aruba Resort is one of Aruba’s premier resort destinations, perfect for honeymooners, vacationing families and business executives.

      As a result of the renovation, guestrooms and suites have been upgraded with new furnishings and amenities, including marble baths, 32′ flat screen televisions, an array of Westin’s Heavenly Bath ® products, and Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed ®. The resort’s 12,000 square foot Casablanca Casino, which received 200 new state-of-the-art slot machines, features Rick’s Café, one of the hottest lounges in Aruba. Comix Café, offering first-class comedy, adds to the resort’s wide selection of entertainment options.

      “The Westin Aruba Resort will be the crown jewel of the Caribbean and one of the most exclusive properties on the island,” said Michael Belfonti, co-founder and chairman of Belfonti Capital Partners. “We are supportive of the growth in Aruba’s economy and tourism and are excited to raise The Westin flag in Aruba and deliver all of Westin’s world renowned signature services and amenities.”

      The Westin Aruba Resort features 481 guestrooms and suites with private balconies, all offering ocean views. Other highlights include an Intermezzo Spa, 18,000 square feet of flexible meeting and conference space, a Westin Kid’s Club ® for children ages 4-12, and, wi-fi throughout the resort. The resort houses eight dining options, including the internationally-acclaimed Cuban Revue at Cabaret Royale.

      During their stay, travelers can lounge by the seaside pool or take part in numerous activities including sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. Just three miles from the resort, guests can browse in shops and enjoy entertaining nightlife. The Westin Aruba Resort participates in the Starwood Preferred Guest Program and features smoke-free guestrooms and public areas.

      “The debut of a resort of this caliber in Aruba perfectly aligns with our strategy to grow The Westin brand in the world’s most coveted resort destinations,” said Sue Brush, senior vice president, Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Whether visiting for business or pleasure, The Westin Aruba Resort will offer guests an idyllic retreat to feel rejuvenated and refreshed.”

      In addition to upgrading The Westin Aruba Resort, Starwood has plans to launch the first Westin-branded, vacation ownership resort on Aruba. This resort, managed by Starwood Vacation Ownership ®, will be located on land adjacent to the hotel and will feature 154 two-bedroom villas. Sales for the deluxe accommodations will begin in early 2007.

    25. Patti on January 6th, 2007 9:02 pm

      Corintians:

      Blah, Blah, Blah

      Sounds alot like the resorts that American companies were investing in and building in Cuba.

    26. Patti on January 6th, 2007 9:10 pm

      Geeeeee…..

      How many Arubans get to stay there?

      Is his Oduber’s idea of justice, liberty and freedom?

      The man is a lunatic. His own people are worrying about the price of bread and what? He rubs their noses in this.

      Hey… Mr. Oduber:

      Please, do tell:

      How many of your slaves is it going to take to operate your latest and greatest in “GAMING IN AURBA”???

      Note: Catering to the wealthy is not an excuse.

    27. Miss-Underestimated on January 6th, 2007 9:15 pm

      LOL Robot…

      Patti I agree, I think Cuba, after Fidildo’s final exit, will court the USA to grab the tourist dollars. Cuba was a mecca for tourists.

      Carnival sees the writing on the wall, knows there no one to bring to Aruba.

      Why would Anita say Natalee should not have gotten in the car with your son? What did Joran mean when he said to Anita, this wouldn’t have happened if you stayed home?

      BTW Circuit City has a camera sale.

    28. Miss-Underestimated on January 6th, 2007 9:17 pm

      Upgrading is a technical term for remodeling, they are trying to wash the stink of the pigs off the old facades

    29. Patti on January 6th, 2007 9:39 pm

      Wow…. I’m impressed (not)!!!

      Oduber has been bragging about this one for a long time:

      His latest and greatest in “Gaming”

      (which for those that are interested means gambling)

      Mr. Oduber:

      This is impressive and I am sure that, on any other island, we would be applauding. However, given your island’s current status of being the #1 supplier of the drug “X” to The Netherlands, and a major supplier in the world market for cocaine, we are a bit disappointed.

      How is it that you think that Americans care only about relaxing and recooperation when the world is in such a mess and many of us know that your island is one of the reasons why?

      You have bragged about this hotel for months, like it was the answer to your prayers… but in reality, it is just another “show for appearances sake” for an island that is drowning in violence, drug addiction and crying women.

      I wonder… how much your crime rate is going to go up as a result of all these “wealthy” patrons that are sure to be attracted to your island? Does it not bother you that you cater to the wealthy while your own people are over-taxed and can hardly afford a loaf of bread… not to mention that the companies that are Aruban-owned, like the bakeries, can hardly make a profit?

      No wonder your people hate us. How disgusting that we should come to your island and be looked upon as a nation that cares more about placing a hefty bet on lady luck than lending a hand to a country that is stuck between your tricks and your lies.

      Aruba:

      Is this what makes you happy?

      Boycott!

      How many of your own Arubans get to stay in this resort?

    30. Richard on January 6th, 2007 9:57 pm

      Patti, that’s part of the original problem … the Dutchies sent over to tend ship and their expat families care nothing for Arubans.

      The predators among them, I am convinced, turned their eyes on the tourists who were suspecting nothing, taking their ease in the “tropical paradise,” and realized what damage the snakes there could do.

      They thought they were kings in Aruba … just like hogs think they are at the top of the ladder in the pigsty.

      Any Americans who go to Aruba, Bonaire or Curacao now (remember that Amy Bradley vanished from the ship docked at Curacao) should be on their guard. Hopefully they won’t go.

    31. Richard on January 6th, 2007 10:01 pm

      Linda (18), perhaps the cruise ship companies, or at least Carnival, was wise enough to read the writing on the wall.

      Nothing personal, but … you say your government is stupid and incompetent? We posters here say it’s criminal.

      In any case, YOU are in a position to do something about it. Why not take the lead? Maybe you could tell the Aruban people why we are urging people and businesses to shun the “tropical paradise” … because we want JUSTICE FOR NATALEE.

      Something, it seems, that your island just cannot understand. And we’re not going to let up.

    32. Richard on January 6th, 2007 10:14 pm

      Come to think of it, this gives me an idea.

      Let’s do some research on the Aruban economy and find its most vulnerable points. Obviously, since it is composed 80% of tourism, we have already identified the weak spot.

      But how to keep hitting at this, other than to actively promote the boycott? Maybe have a mass burning of Aruba Aloe, if that ever took off?

      Seriously, though, I’m thinking of writing to the other cruise lines and urging them to follow Carnival’s lead.

      What do you think, Oduber? Maybe you might think that the Natalee Holloway case ought to be solved?

    33. Patti on January 6th, 2007 10:14 pm

      Ms. U:

      Sweety, we all know why Anita said that Natalee should not

      have gotten into the car with her son:

      She is the mother of a psychopath. She wishes, everyday,

      that Natalee had not gotten into that car… and, perhaps

      Anita was the only one that could keep him under control.

      Everyone feels guilty, except for Joran…

      He blames his mother…

      If, only, she were home…

      That’s not Oduber’s problem… where is the JUSTICE?

    34. Patti on January 6th, 2007 10:31 pm

      Oduber:

      Did you hear that?

      YOU ARE THE HOG AT THE TOP OF THE LADDER IN THE PIGSTY…

      Thanks, Richard, I couldn’t have said it better.

    35. Patti on January 6th, 2007 10:51 pm

      Richard:

      Look at the picture of Beth and Oduber… he’s not huggin’

      Besides… if he told us once, he told us a hundred times

      “I’m sick of this Natalee Holloway case”

      Oink… Oink….

    36. whytegirl on January 6th, 2007 11:08 pm

      Ok this has ofcourse nothing to do with Natalee..I know you all would like to believe that..but no..But this has to do with our STUPID STUPID government..the situation in Aruba is bad right now..with less tourism..bbo etc..so letting Carnival go its the stupidest decision they have ever made..I Really do not get these people..things must change soon here otherwise we are in deep shit..

      Comment by linda | January 6, 2007, 7:06 pm

      Linda, what is bbo? And I believe Arubans suffer from the same syndrom I see in Puerto Ricans (my ppl): they let the gov’t run around do whatever they want and don’t do anything about it.

      In the Bahamas people protested because they want Anna Nicole Smith out of their island, the people suspect a COVERUP in her son’s death, Daniel Wayne Smith, and there’s talk of shredded papers in the hospital where he died.

      They come to the blogs to share with us their disgust and you know what they say? THEY DON’T WANT TO BE COMPARED WITH ARUBA. Even though there was supposed to be an inquest into Daniel’s death back in Nov., it is January and no date has been set yet so that is making a lot of people upset, and add to that that his own mother has not asked for a full investigation and justice, not an inquest, NOTHING! She’s not even willing to do the DNA test requested by the CA judge, which has a deadline.

      I can tell you that the docks in San Juan were pretty full like 3 weeks ago and a lot of people went to Old San Juan to visit the docks and admire the view. I am not there so I can’t tell you but I did read the articles over the Internet. Many haven’t seen the docks so full of cruise ships since the last Regatta. That pretty much sums it up.

      We sound like a broken record Linda, all we want is for you guys to stand up, write letters, protest, take to the streets; for Pete’s sake DO SOMETHING! Show that you care! If the island shows that is open and willing to clean up their act (not the good, humble Arubans, the ones that have the island held “hostage), then you will see a turnaround, guaranteed.

    37. anilee on January 6th, 2007 11:18 pm

      To repeat the words of one of the wise ones (Rumba)

      What goes around comes around. (?)

    38. Bob on January 6th, 2007 11:20 pm

      Satisfaction is harsh at times, and comes in many colors. A few weeks ago, I posted a message here on SM that some Christmas money in my household was diverted to materials costs in order that I could do my part to contact various travel agencies, hotel brokers, etc. via letters, faxes, and emails. Much to my surprise, I actually received 27 written reponses from the 1,000 contacts I made. I never expected to even hear from 1. Of the 27, 24 individuals stated they would NOT make a voluntary recommendation of Aruba to Carribean bound tourists, and would make an effort to dirvert them elsewhere. A few said (as I had suggested) that if a customer specifically insisted on Aruba, they would complete their booking. That’s quite amazing. I can only wonder how many other ‘silent’ American travel agents did the right thing on their own. Yes, I think we have helped lessen the Winter-Spring tourist season bookings on my own. The arrogant Aruban officials who brought this down upon their citizens will eventually pay the price. They never anticipated dealing with the ground swell of Americans who want the right thing for their own. As Yogi once said: “It ain’t over until it’s over.”

    39. Desiree on January 6th, 2007 11:35 pm

      Lots of posting by Patti. Great job Patti…
      Did you know that the largest tourist conference will be held in Aruba by the CHA, Caribbean Hotel Association next week jan. 14-16. More than 1500 visitors are expected.
      The fact that many people don’t understand is that negative attention works as well as positive.

    40. Desiree on January 6th, 2007 11:38 pm

      Carnival will also bring lots of people in from Europe because they have a vacation period in Februar. Also Americans, Chicago and NY mainly are coming over. Try to book a flight, you will be surprised. It’s the best after Rio. The parades are colorful and music is awesome.

    41. Desiree on January 6th, 2007 11:40 pm

      Four Seasons and Regency are interested in aruba. why would that be?

    42. Scared Monkeys on January 6th, 2007 11:57 pm

      Desiree … in this case neagitve PR is not the same as any PR.

      The visitors are within the tourist industry, far from actual tourists.

      Nobody ever said there would never be any tourists going to Aruba, the fact of the matter is their tourism industry has been sunk.

      People in business is Aruba admit it.

      Please stop as a wise man once said .. “lipsticking a pig”.

      R

    43. yoyo muffintop on January 6th, 2007 11:58 pm

      Carnival in Aruba is #2nd best after Rio??? That’s gotta be the stupiest thing I’ve ever heard. The stupiest.
      Then I guess the tricycle parade on mardi gras in my cul-de-sac is #3.

    44. Desiree on January 7th, 2007 12:03 am

      Well Red,pigs can be pretty tasty but without lipstick.

    45. Patti on January 7th, 2007 12:12 am

      Desiree:

      Why would Aruba want the negative attention that comes from
      knowing that a beautiful, bright young lady disappeared
      from their island? Sweetie, that just doesn’t make any
      sense at all.

      I think that I’m gonna take a hint from Bob and Whyte Girl
      and do a little letter writtin’

      Boycott Aruba

      Boycott Aruba

    46. Desiree on January 7th, 2007 12:30 am

      Will this help or just put more focus on these beautiful beaches and friendly people. I know, I know, I live here now for 7 years and I love this place.I can’t help iet! It’s just not fear to blame it all on the people here.
      There s corruption everywhere, look around you. There is no way thet this government and ALE would protect two families with no power. Paulus vander Sloot, a wealthy judge! Don’t let me laugh, he studied for judge, his carreer is gone and he struggles.The Kalpos , I think mom is still out of work. They don’t get their visa so will have to leave soon back to Suriname. There is still an investigation going on after 18 months or so. Everybody wants to solve this case.
      A cover up, could be.. but more related to some corrupt policemen or one of their family members. Tunnelvision is great to avoid looking in other directions.

    47. nychic on January 7th, 2007 12:38 am

      Oduber Greatest Interest Is In Gaming ??

      Maybe It Would Be Wise For Anyone Considering Placing
      Any Bet In An Aruban Casino To Know That Two Owners
      of Casinos In Aruba Are Convicted Criminals !
      (could be more that we do not even know about)

      Posner/Excelsior – Federal Indictment In Chicago

      Aruba Radisson Casino – Securities Fraud – State of Nevada

      Go Ahead – Place Those Bets !
      How Many Stories About Cheating In Aruban Casinos Have
      We Heard ?? One Straight From The Rat-Face DPak Himself !

    48. Patti on January 7th, 2007 12:39 am

      Desiree:

      I feel ya!

      Hang in there, there will be justice for Natalee.

    49. mayan_moons on January 7th, 2007 12:49 am

      Yeah BOB!

      “we want whats right for one of our own”

      I”m going to tell aruba something, some of you’re son’s hurt one of ours and none of you mofo’s give a shit how much they hurt her nor how much it hurts us.

      In turn you’ve made some life long enemys who will ALWAYS be looking for ways to kick you in the teeth and the ass.

    50. para2legal on January 7th, 2007 12:53 am

      #24 – go on Trip Advisor and read the comments from tourists that were prematurely booked in this hotel before it’s completion. Ha – it makes “Hotel California” sound like a dream. The bottom line – Aruba’s investors can build beautiful hotels 24-7, so what?? Who cares? This is obviously not about investors/developers faux dream of “if I build it, they will come.” It’s much more complex as you well know. Aruba can certainly offer a tropical scenario – no doubt about that. But what about safety for it’s tourists? That’s the problem. Comprende? Aruba wants the tourist income but the “one happy island” facade has been exposed. Aruba’s government has put it’s head in the sand for the past 19 months with so much propaganda it made everyone dizzy. It chose to protect a corrupt judge in training’s son and his friends from prosecution. The game plan didn’t work – did it? Until Natalee Ann Holloway receives justice the island is sinking. Day by day, bit by bit. Arubans – ask YOUR government how does it feel to see the American dollar evaporating from your island?
      There are a LOT of paybacks due. Is there not one person on your island other than Jossy that can smell the stench? Is there no national conscience of right vs. wrong? What you’ve done is to blantantly let punk boys get away with murder and then rub salt into the victim’s family wounds – you’ve defamed and defiled a victim and her family. You’re a brutal, cold and corrupt island. What you’ve done is attrocious and goes beyond moral comprehension.
      So then I ask you – Aruba – why would I go to your island? Why would I allow my children to go? Why would I recommend your island to family members or work associates? The answer: I won’t…
      And that’s how it stands.
      BOYCOTT ARUBA UNTIL THERE’S JUSTICE FOR NATALEE.

    51. Patti on January 7th, 2007 1:10 am

      Desiree:

      You know that there is a reward out for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for the disappearance of Natalee?

      Have you ever thought about copying the posters that are located at her site and passing them out to your friends and collegues?

      You know that the more that people know of what is going on in the case of Natalee, the better. Some people come here thinking that she drowned in the ocean. We both know that that didn’t happen. Perhaps someone will talk and that would be the end to all your problems. We could go back to being friends, again; and, perhaps, we could all rent a conference room at the hotel and throw the biggest party Aruba EVER saw!!!

      Can you believe the number of people that would rejoice in knowing that Natalee got her justice, we put an end to the drug trafficing and freed all those held as human slaves. You know, of course, that not all the slaves are of a sexual nature, don’t you?

      How HAPPY we’d be… all of us.

      Don’t you think that it was awesome that Beth made those bracelets with the children at the school?

      THAT was Beth…. and Natalee was her daughter.

      We all loved her… both of them.

      Peace be with you and yours.

      Boycott, Aruba, PLEASE!!!

    52. Mike on January 7th, 2007 1:33 am

      #18 Linda,

      Aruba is already in DEEP SHIT!

    53. Carpe Noctem on January 7th, 2007 1:55 am

      ARUBA + VAN DER SLOOTS = DEATH

      -J4N

    54. Carpe Noctem on January 7th, 2007 2:07 am

      #35

      Look at the picture of Beth and Oduber… he’s not huggin’

      Besides… if he told us once, he told us a hundred times

      “I’m sick of this Natalee Holloway case”

      ——-

      He deserves to have it go on forever. He is one of the parties that saw to it that this case will never be put to rest.

      When this old drunken sot dies, it will be burned in to his forehead & written on his tombstone.

      “I HELPED RAPE MURDER AND DISPOSE OF NATALEE HOLLOWAY”

      Oduber is a load of fertilizer. I hope somebody shoots him right between the eyes.

    55. Molly on January 7th, 2007 2:11 am

      # AlanK: Did DeVries ever have a followup show? I thought he was going to have another show to reveal more info. Did someone get to him too? Crooked arms apparently reach across oceans and continents.

      molly (in Houston)

    56. Molly on January 7th, 2007 2:23 am

      Who is going to stay in the fancy Westin Hotel? The hotel taxes will probably be horrendous. I doubt that the rich and famous will suddenly want to go to Aruba. A lot of wasted money going into Aruba. No sense in building anything except a ship to take all the Dutch back to Holland.

      J4N

      molly (in Houston)

    57. Carpe Noctem on January 7th, 2007 2:23 am

      The only thing ARUBA does well is lie.

      http://www.bucuticam.com/index.html

      Again, we can see with our own eyes that
      nobody is coming to the Island that let
      Joran, Deepak, and Satish rape murder
      and dispose of Natalee Holloway.

      The tourist is hunted, gangraped, murdered,
      and disposed of without even a blink.

      The island is a travesty, and a MAKEOVER
      ain’t gonna help all that STINK!

      ARUBA + VAN DER SLOOTS = DEATH

      Aruba & the Aruban mentality is a lethal mix.

      The Van der Sloots and the Kalpoes are killers
      on the loose. -J4N

    58. just moma on January 7th, 2007 3:23 am

      Geez…

    59. Richard on January 7th, 2007 6:28 am

      I looked at the photo of Oduber “hugging” Beth, and to my mind it looks as if he felt he were doing something distasteful. Almost as if “I’ll play up to the cameras because I have to … but what’s the big deal?”

      Remember, Nelson Oduber is the person who initially resisted bringing in the FBI, saying that the case would be solved in a week.

      Remember, too, when that American girl (was it last summer? I know that it was posted in this forum) vanished in Latin America (Brazil, I think it was) while hitchhiking. The FBI went down there and were WELCOME. The police took ACTION. And she eventually turned up … fortunately.

      I say again: either there was, and is, a conspiracy of Aruban government and law enforcement officials to cover up the truth in Natalee’s case or there was/is not.

      If the former, the island deserves to be shunned by Americans, and to be singled out for a boycott. Nothing against its people … but we owe Aruba nothing, and we are, and SHOULD BE, concerned with the safety and well-being of our people abroad.

      If the latter, then Aruban authorities are so inept, indifferent and incompetent that we should avoid the island because, just as on cruise ships, there is nobody and no force to protect the innocent person who is assaulted.

      And as for the hotels and their “interest” in Aruba … even if you build it, they will not come. If they have any sense, that is.

      (Besides, how else is the drug money going to be circulated? Lots of it in the Caribbean….)

      One more thing I’d like to say here; I’ve long thought that Natalee was taken off the island. I’m beginning to think that, perhaps, she was indeed held captive on a boat for a while by some of the ‘Pimps’ and their drug friends … but when the case got attention, and it became known that this wasn’t some friendless girl about whom nobody cared, they decided that she was more of a liability to them to sell.

      And so, you can imagine what happened then.

      Needless to say, I hope this isn’t true. But my hopes and fears can’t influence what did happen.

    60. MommyTraveler on January 7th, 2007 7:55 am

      The weak link in this whole scenario is ANITA. Yes, she has lied for her son and stood beside her man so far. But the pressure and stress will at some point cause her to break to save her other sons. Her marriage is, no doubt, in serious trouble now and perhaps, has been for a long time. Her husband says he will do anything to protect his son – probably because he knows about other incriminating stuff about his son and/or is involved with him. This whole thing has got to be costing them money big time and one does have to wonder where it is all coming from. Financial stress and emotional stress will bring it all down eventually. Keep hammering at Anita – she surely is reading the blogs about this case and has to suspect any “friends” she may have at her employment or in her neighborhood. It would not surprise me if someone has already planted an investigator to get close to her. Message to Anita: Every time you open your mouth (outside the home) someone is listening. Do you really trust them to not be reporting everything single thing you say to some investigator for Natalee’s family or the FBI? Do you want your other sons to have to be looking behind their backs and carrying the burden of Natalee Holloway their entire lives? Because, right now, it looks like that is exactly what is going to happen. Neither Aruba nor Holland will be able to provide a safe, happy family life or environment for them. Natalee Holloway will haunt them whereever they go.

    61. Richard on January 7th, 2007 8:10 am

      This url leads to a (somewhat dated) article on human trafficking in Latin America. It is well worth reading.

      http://www.american.edu/traccc/resources/publications/bibes01.doc

      The women and girls (children, many of them) referred to here often are economically deprived, many of them street people, and are vulnerable because they are seeking a better life, and hence are prey to deception and force.

      No surprise there, and certainly Natalee was not in this category.

      But read further about the police corruption that allows this trade to flourish, the apathy of politicians (fueled in part by payoffs, no doubt), the use of narcotics to keep the girls and women drugged and resigned.

      Then consider the quality of people who would be involved in this trade to begin with.

      Then consider that Natalee would represent, for them, a “rare acquisition”; attractive, blond, and, in short, someone desirable.

      So why aren’t American girls vanishing in large numbers in the Caribbean and Latin America? Why didn’t all the Mountain Brook girls go lost, never to be found?

      Because, in my view, Natalee was not targeted by people (depraved scum is a better word) in this occupation. BUT, I think, some of the “Pimps,” the very name of whom is evocative, had contacts in the drug world. We know that Lorenzo van Rijn, for example, reputedly Joran’s half brother, was said to be a major dealer in Ecstasy.

      And passing Natalee along in this way would not only solve a very big problem for the Pimps (“No body, no crime” COULD mean if no body is available because it’s off the island), but could represent the working out of a psychotic fantasy: ultimate control.

      Not only did the ‘Pimps’ seize an American girl from the ‘safety’ of her group, luring her away … if this scenario is genuine, they turned her into a captive, and perhaps a slave.

      Is this what happened? More than a year and a half later, not one sign of Natalee has been found on Aruba. Who would do this? A group of psychopaths, or perhaps a gang dominated by one psychopath … such as, apparently, Joran van der Sloot has been described as.

    62. dave on January 7th, 2007 8:16 am

      #18 Linda,

      Your another “bury my head in the sand Arubans” get off your backside quit whining and stand up to those responsible on that no good low life island, quit the bs or sink with the rest of the guilty scum.

    63. Richard on January 7th, 2007 9:09 am

      OK, I don’t want to keep hammering everyone here over the head. Let me just post a few interesting sentences from that article:

      “Another important point to make is that there is a transnational connection to the drug trafficking industry and its relationship to prostitution.”

      “…the exploitation has an organized criminal structure. This means that the criminal activities are run by businessmen … trafficking to other countries is primarily related to young women.” (This is in contrast to trafficking in children, who apparently are ‘local hires.’)

      “In Latin America, the police are often corrupt and make it impossible to collect any evidence to prosecute criminals. By the same token, most of the cases are rarely documented because the evidence is hidden.”

      (Well, we don’t have to worry about that in Aruba … because, as we’ve seen from day one of this case, all the law enforcement and political people are of A-1 character.)

    64. Melissa on January 7th, 2007 10:00 am

      To #24 – So now this hotel is a Westin. There have been so many turnovers of this property. I remember in the late ’70s when the original hotel was built and started out as the Concorde. There was a building error from the beginning whereas it was built where there was a wind tunnel. God help anyone standing outside the lobby doors -it would be easy to be blown away – literally. I always laugh in Aruba when the term “upscale” is tossed around to describe things by people who have no idea what upscale means. In my humble opinion, most Ritz Carlton properties qualify as upscale – In Aruba, perhaps the Marriott Clubs (Ocean and Surf).

    65. page on January 7th, 2007 11:10 am

      This is so upsetting. Why are people so mean about us wanting to find answers about Natalee. Below is copied from Phil Chroniger’s Augusta Press message board at
      http://thenewdominion.com/?p=31

      Comment from Victoria
      Time: January 7, 2007, 12:59 am

      To Phil Chroniger,

      After reading all these comments that have been sent to you, I can concur that they are coming from the Scaredmonkey, Blogsfornatalee, and boycottaruba blogspot. These people have skewed facts, gathered by false witnesses, false evidence, planted by Jossy Mansur, and many other dubious outlets. They are on the Twitty/Holloway bandwagon, and have absolutely no factual information except for the trash that has come from all the above plus false stories planted in the National Enquirer, and the Globe which was given to them by Art Wood, and approved by Dave Holloway, knowing full well before the information was put there that it was already debunked.

      These people write enmasse, every time someone does not agree with them, they threaten, intimidate and harass anyone who does not agree with them, just like Beth has done to Aruba.

      Despite what they say, there is an abundance of people who support the right to justice and a fair trial, and one that has actual evidence to support it. There is also an abundance of people out there who have moved on a long time ago, as they have simply tired of this whole Twitty Media Circus.

      Don’t let them get to you, as this is their whole life, they have no other life, and half of them are sick individuals. There life is so miserable that they take pleasure in making other peoples lives miserable as well. They post 24 hours a day 7 days a week, 365 days a year, nothing but hate and they threaten to cause harm to anyone who disagrees with them. They display the exact same behavior that the Twitty/Holloways did when they were in Aruba, and then they wonder why people treat them badly.

      In essence they are more likened to the KKK. The one Michelle that posted to you, was ever supportive of Joe Mammana until she could not get any money out of him and now she is against him. You will find that the Twitty/Holloway family supports these hate sites, so that can give you an idea of the mindset that the Arubans have had to contend with for now going on 20 months.

      You did good, thanks for your article. Any threats you get please report to the FBI, and tell them just what hate sites they are coming from.

      Victoria

    66. linda on January 7th, 2007 11:42 am

      Dave..I don’t know whats wrong with you..I’m one of those bury my head in the sand Arubans? hehe you gotta be kidding me..if I was like that I wouldn’t be posting here..
      You are just rude..and really don’t want to waste my time anymore responding to your BS.

    67. mayan_moons on January 7th, 2007 12:44 pm

      Boo Hoo Americans are picking on us arubans

      The ONLY thing you got right is that we are on your ass 24/7 365

      riding the uglyass mule called aruba into the dirt.

    68. Crioyo (in aruba) on January 7th, 2007 2:22 pm

      #32 …

      Horrible thing to say..

      Cripling a nation for the mistakes of its leaders won’t help anybody. If we want the government to do something, we should put pressure on the government, not on the people.

      However, in Aruba pressure on the government is translated into ”the other government did it” . So what do you do, besides silly boycotts……….. That should be the question.

      I come here everyday, love the articles on SM. But the commentary… I see a rowdy group of pirates, toasting to famine and poverty, harr arrr. Guys, you’re on your own. Been on the island now for 3 weeks and I must say the Natalee story is dead. Other than the occasional Jossy editorial once in a blue moon and the natalee song by a local punk band, there’s nothing else going on and like someone pointed out earlier in a few more years nobody will remember.

      Oh yeah the last headline i read in the newspaper was the beth and jugg divorce.

      Maybe it’s time to try some human relations, ay mates?

    69. Patti on January 7th, 2007 2:38 pm

      Linda:

      I think what Dave, although I can’t speak for him, wants you to do something, you know, help out.

      We know that the hotel, with the latest and greatest in gaming is having a CHA convention January 14 -16. How difficult would it be to have a few of your friends drop off a couple flyers in places that they will frequent… or better yet, leave a stack of printed material about the Holloway investigation in the lobby?

      We know that it is out of concern, for Natalee, that you come here to post. You don’t have to convince me that there are good Arubans. It’s just that everyone is trying to come up with ideas of how to expose the truth about Natalee. We haven’t given up on finding her… and we need everybody’s help.

    70. Mike on January 7th, 2007 2:39 pm

      crioyo,

      ay mate, you had better start building your pirate ship if you want to be able to eat. aruba can be the next pirate haven but that would also be a step up from what it is now

    71. Patti on January 7th, 2007 2:50 pm

      Crioyo:

      I agree with you.

      Do you have any suggestions?

      What are we to do?

    72. mayan_moons on January 7th, 2007 3:24 pm

      Natalee & “her story” as you put it has been “dead” for Aruban’s since May 30, 2005 and Trust me no one is expecting Aruban’s to grow a heart in 5 years or 50 mate.

    73. Kat_Gram on January 7th, 2007 3:28 pm

      Crioyo. Well, it might be a no story in Aruba, but not in the rest of the world.
      It is mentioned frequently on the cable networks, plus, here in Canada, it is mentioned as ” wasn’t Aruba the place where that American girl was killed and the judges’s son got away with it ?” and ” Yuck, who wants to go there ? ” These are the kinds of tourists Aruba would like to have.
      That is how Aruba is now branded. Good Luck on re branding the place.
      Several … about at least a dozen of my work mates are going on cruises, Carnival, etc and not one of the ports of call is ARUBA !
      It’s just like if someone died from taking a drug or eating at a restaurant and died, the image sticks forever.
      Aruba could change its name.
      Ask Robots… he has some new names for the place.
      How do you say TOILET in Spanish ? One that needs a flushing ! !

    74. mayan_moons on January 7th, 2007 3:44 pm

      The Aruban government is hiding behind their own people with that silly comment of how you should put pressure on the government & not the people. HELLO….how can you put pressure on officials & not its people? Seeing as how the people (majority) voted these officials back in makes those kind of arguements even more silly.

    75. Patti on January 7th, 2007 3:47 pm

      Crioyo:

      Have you ever thought that, perhaps, the reason that there is so little talk about what happened to Natalee, is not because your people are not concerned… but because your Government has squashed the story, along with all the evidence?

      It is true, that your people know only as much as Oduber & Company wants them to know… he is playing us all for fools.

      Boycott, Aruba… or else

    76. mayan_moons on January 7th, 2007 4:02 pm

      Let me guess crioyo, the song about Natalee you mentioned that is sung by some punk band isn’t very nice to her is it? Did it give you pleasure to let us know there was a song about her? It must have or you wouldn’t bring it up now would you?

    77. Smish on January 7th, 2007 4:18 pm

      To #68,Crioyo
      What Natalee song by a Aruban local band?

    78. Richard on January 7th, 2007 4:21 pm

      Crioyo (68), sorry you think that the idea of pressuring Aruba at its weak points is silly and inhumane.

      Your government (I’m assuming that you are Aruban) has had more than a year and a half to solve a case where three of your locals were last seen driving off with an American girl … and where is your investigation?

      Right in the sewer with your government’s ethics.

      Americans have NO obligation to visit your island, NO obligation to give you our money, and NO obligation to care about Aruba. The Natalee Holloway case has, I hope, taken off the blinders.

      No, not all Arubans are responsible. So what? Very few North Koreans are responsible for their government’s insane actions … but the point is, that government, by its actions, has made North Korea an international pariah.

      In its own way, Aruba has shown that it is not a place where tourists should go. I am unaware that it offers any other attractions. So if your government is killing the tourism goose that produced the golden eggs …

      DON’T BLAME US. BLAME YOUR GOVERNMENT, WHICH REPRESENTS YOU.

    79. JusticeforNatalee on January 7th, 2007 4:48 pm

      J for N

      Pass the Word

      Make it Heard

    80. Crioyo (in aruba) on January 7th, 2007 5:16 pm

      I’m just saying, I want justice for natalee as much as anybody else.

      I’m not blaming anybody here, because whatever is said here never makes it out of here anyway. I might not agree with all your views but that’s just my opinion.

      What Aruba needs, is for its people to be more vocal and aware of the case and it’s consequences. The significance of what has happened. But they are proud people, yell at them and they walk away and say screw you.

      Aruba is dependant on tourism but few Arubans actually care and think that far ahead. Tourism is taken for granted and when something goes wrong it’s politicized. So no boycott of any kind would have the desired effect.

      Instead of fixing the problem with the Natalee case, they’re looking into other markets such as Brazil, Chile and EU.

      Investors just revealed a huge plan for a ethanol desalination plant in Barcadera.

      Research has been done for ages into what else can be done in case tourism would ever decline.

      In my opinion a solution will never come from the government. I think the prosecution needs a little more support, a pat on the back. And some people higher up the foodchain need to be shot which we all know won’t happen.

      The government at first was very vocal and pro-active, but the minute they saw it was lingering too long they decided to squash the story, true, yes. Boycott? useless.

      I know many people are afraid to speak up just like that and say hey I think Joran did it, or i think some things were covered up…. they don’t need to be yelled at, they need to be motivated.

      Yes I’m Aruban.

      The Natalee song is actually pro-natalee. It’s from a band called Track One.

    81. Patti on January 7th, 2007 5:16 pm

      Justice:

      I know that we are supposed to stay clear of Aruba, but I wonder if someone would be brave enough to be the “seed” planted in the garden?

      We need some people over there…

      Testing… Testing…

      Earth to Aruba:

      Fess up or shut up! Either you are part of the solution or you’re part of the problem.

    82. Maggie on January 7th, 2007 5:39 pm

      I haven’t heard as much bs since JR. Ewing said, of course I love you SueEllen and would never cheat on you.

      As for a story going away. A parent who has lost a child and has no place to go pay respects to her the story never goes away. The Holloway story is the biggest story ever from Aruba. Denile isn’t just a river in Egypt. Her name is forever linked to Aruba. I know these people would like nothing more for everyone to go away and pretend Natalee never did exist or that she was never the victim of a crime on the island of Aruba. They can write all they want, but it doesn’t change the facts, that Natalee was last seen in the company of 3 locals and never seen again. They repeatedly for a almost 2 years have lied. They’ve also stated if they find the girl, they will see that sh*t and that Joran would get 15 years if they find her. Paulus called her a body, the day after she disappeared.

      Like others said, who wants to go to a place where the cops or citizens don’t even take the death of tourists seriously and investigate and walk the suspects around like celebrities. Tourists -0 .. Locals 1 with cheers. next!

    83. Big Lou on January 7th, 2007 5:54 pm

      Crioyo: I heard the same thing. Natalee is a non-story down there. Our neighbor went there for 2 weeks and he told me that nobody even mentioned Natalee. I hope you are wrong about in a couple of years everyone will forget about her.

    84. JusticeforNatalee on January 7th, 2007 6:12 pm

      It’s baloney that nothing makes it off this board.

      I guess that’s why Peter de Vries came to Tom and Red for information.

      And for your information, we don’t just come here and post our opinions.

      We are proactive in getting the word out.

    85. Allan Kl on January 7th, 2007 6:40 pm

      Quit protecting Joran and Paulus. Nether one is worth this and I think Paulus is a psychopath too! Give them up! Anita you have some serious issues too! Deepak, Satish you are scum that fit right in along with Steve Croes.

    86. JusticeforNatalee on January 7th, 2007 7:22 pm

      AMERICANS won’t forget Natalee, and that’s what matters.

      Aruba, kiss your tourism goodbye.

    87. Tazman on January 7th, 2007 7:26 pm

      You’re right Cryoio #80

      Tourism IS taken for granted in Aruba. That is why Natalee got kidnapped and probably murdered. And, is the reason the Aruban government hasn’t really done anything about it. Joran and his gang took advantage of the tourists of Aruba “probably 20 times” as he has stated. Preying on tourists on their last night of vacation to sexually assult them and murder them has made your island appear extremely unattractive to the American tourist. It doesn’t matter how many hotels have beautifully furnished rooms. The bottom line is, “who wants to be a victim to a crime while they are on vacation”? And, who wants to even vacation to a place that hasn’t solved a much publicized crime that could have been solved sooner? You have to remember that the media coverage of this case is due in large part to the lies of the 3 pervs, paulos, the screaming kalpoe mother and anita. Not to mention the interviewing of the police in charge and revealing to the world that they are all a bunch of clowns!! There is no reason this case wasn’t solved within the first couple of weeks. The Holloway/Twittys didn’t draw it out to this length. The criminals are the ones that have drawn it out and continue to do so. Thereby, making Aruba look like one ugly place to vacation.

    88. Richard on January 7th, 2007 7:49 pm

      OK, Arubans are a proud people. Glad to hear it. But if you’re proud, do something about this case. As far as I know, it is THE major story for Americans to come from Aruba in my lifetime, anyway.

      Go ahead and say Americans are self-centered (then beg us to keep your economy alive). I’ve got nothing against the Aruban people, and we’ve had at least some here who have been, and are, conspicuously decent and concerned.

      Let the proud Arubans do something to show their concern for the family and their outrage at the government that is the obstacle to giving what justice can be given.

      What, in the last analysis, do the Holloway Twittys want?

      THEY WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THEIR DAUGHTER.

      THEY WANT THEIR DAUGHTER BROUGHT HOME, ALIVE IF POSSIBLE.

      And I’m sure that they want justice done to anyone involved in harming her, whether by action or inaction.

      Pretty outrageous, huh? Pretty harsh demands? Almost inhuman in the rigor and severity of what they want?

      And the government of the “proud” Aruban people continues to frustrate them in their quest.

      Well, what the Holloway Twittys want is what we posters here (for the most part) want. And if the “proud” Arubans can’t take being berated about it, tough luck. Because I’m increasingly indifferent to what happens to Aruba. As someone said, what goes around comes around … and it’s time, far past time, for it to slam Aruba.

      By the way, at least some of your “proud” people don’t mind scavenging for money with scummy book deals and asinine lawsuits, do they?

    89. mayan_moons on January 7th, 2007 7:51 pm

      Tell it Taz!

    90. dennisintn on January 7th, 2007 8:21 pm

      if i were an islander, i’d be ashamed to bring up natalee’s name too. especially to another american.
      dennisintn

    91. dennisintn on January 7th, 2007 8:24 pm

      to finish that post. if i were in the tourism business on aruba, and a tourist brought up natalee’s name, i sure as hell wouldn’t be blaming her or repeating the ridiculously stupid things they’ve been told by the govt. like “she’s living with her boyfriend in the cayman islands”. nor would i be spouting the govt. position on the l4 yr. old boy that they’re blaming the mother for an insurance scam involving his disappearance. they act like tourists from america are patently stupid and believe anything they say.
      dennisintn

    92. Patti on January 7th, 2007 8:40 pm

      I agree with Taz – except I don’t think that the Kalpoes ever killed anybody. Joran did it all by his lonesome self. Psycho!

      Running around chasing American girls is not a crime, but doing what Joran did, is.

      No body, No crime… that was just another way, perhaps a desperate one, of getting Joran to tell his Dad where the body was… and just like any good dad would, he did everything he could be protect his son.

      The man should be in jail, but instead we have what:

      Joran in The Netherlands attending college

      The Kalpoes trying to dodge all the bullets because they went out with a sucker-thumb, momma’s boy

      and

      Mr. Van der Sloot trying to hold off the Dutch

      Holland: How’s it going over there? What do you think of your Judge-in-Training now?

    93. Richard on January 7th, 2007 8:55 pm

      Hold off the Dutch? They’ve been (supposedly) reviewing the documents for what … six months, now? When are we ever going to hear from them? If ever?

      And yes, I’m quite sure that on Aruba the name of Natalee Holloway is being spoken as little as possible … if it is mentioned, the speakers probably lower their voices and look over their shoulders. After all, the Aruban government would like best for her to be an “unperson.”

      Guess what … ain’t gonna happen.

    94. Patti on January 7th, 2007 9:11 pm

      Richard:

      Do you remember the latest and greates leak that we have had out of the Aruba authorities:

      “Moving of the Body”

      Gee…. I wonder, is that a crime?\

      Duhhhhhhh!

    95. Patti on January 7th, 2007 9:14 pm

      Or…..

      No body, no crime could have meant:

      “Shut up, Kid, I got it covered for you”

      Either way, he WAS arrested.

      Holland: Have you gotten to that part yet?

    96. Carpe Noctem on January 7th, 2007 9:34 pm

      Crioyo, Aruba is dependent on tourism… and then in your next sentence you say that no boycott of any kind will
      have any effect? Your own banks and AHATA admit the
      boycott is having an effect.

      It just needs to be done
      for a very LONNNNG time.

      I do agree with you that some people in your own government
      need to be taken out back and shot. While they’re at it they could take out that arrogant, nasty, venomous little dusgusting Dutch family that started all of this
      in the first place. One right between Joran’s eyes,
      and one right between Paulus’ eyes.

      Two less pieces
      of gangraping, murdering trash
      for Aruba to deal with.

      VAN DER SLOOTS + ARUBA = DEATH

    97. Miss-Underestimated on January 7th, 2007 9:35 pm

      Memo to Karin Jensen

      In an interview with Current Affair at Jorans college in Holland,he stated he will tell what really happened/the whole story someday. Now I know this has been metnioned before. But he did make reference that he did not tell you the whole story, so my question is when are you gonna bring him in to tell you the whole story? To me he is implicating himself, at the least that he knows more. So Karin is this a confession of some sort? Karin when you gonna bring him in…If you can’t find the original video transcript I am sure we would only be too happy to find it for you.

      What are you waiting for Karin? Retirement? The guy admitted on TV that he knows more and is not telling all.
      Isn’t that grounds for requestioning?

      Karin you will live in infamy with this case, do you have children that will someday bear the burden of defending your decisions of this case? Karin it is out there, do the right thing, if not for Natalee at least for yourself.

    98. whytegirl on January 7th, 2007 11:58 pm

      Crioyo, I understand you. I am a criolla from Puerto Rico and I know the ping-pong of politics and how in small islands like ours it is played out. As I mentioned in my prior post, the people suffer from the same defect and the politicians could care less.

      However I am in the States now and I can see how this has gone south for you guys. Dave Holloway was very kind and p a t i e n t with the island until he could not take it anymore. Natalee was called a “puta” right in front of her mom @ the police station. What are they to expect, then?

      It is very disheartening that the island has moved on from this, that is until I am afraid somebody else disappears. These guys are not Aruban yet they have trashed the island’s reputation and that is something, I believe, the Arubans should not take for granted.

      Keep it up Crioyo, you are welcome to post and if you need more info or need to write to me I have no problem with that.

    99. whytegirl on January 8th, 2007 12:08 am

      Crioyo, here is the link to the PR newspaper on the Aruban convention…my stomach twisted when I read what Jorge Pesquera had to say…

      http://www.endi.com/noticia/negocios/noticias/celebra_aruba_gigante_convencion_de_ofertas_turisticas_en_el_caribe/140408

      “Queremos demostrar al mundo que Aruba es un destino extraordinario. Nuestra hospitalidad será nuestro mayor punto de venta”,

      Translation:

      “We want to show the world that Aruba is an extraordinary destination. Our hospitality will be our major point of sale”. TRAITOR!

    100. Carpe Noctem on January 8th, 2007 12:29 am

      Unfortunately, AHATA’S Jorge is under the impression that
      drugging female tourists on their last night
      of vacation, and then gangraping and video taping
      them at the Van der sloots, & then murdering them
      in cold blood falls under the umbrella
      of “HOSPITALITY!”

      What some Arubans and Dutch call “HOSPITALITY” in ARUBA,
      other civilized Governments call RAPE,
      TARGETED EXECUTIONS,
      and COLD BLOODED
      MURDER.

      The Van der Sloots and Kalpoes
      are cold blooded, murdering,
      raping faamilies of vermin.

      In the end, they will reap what
      they sew.

      That would be DEATH.

      -J4N

    101. Patti on January 8th, 2007 12:45 am

      Crioyo:

      You are dreaming if you think that the United States Government or any oil companies are going to help you in your attempts to expand your oil refineries. I think we all have had enough of Aruba and its king, the “Big Hog” sitting at the top of the ladder at the pigsty. It’s either/or. You expand your oil refineries and I can gaurantee you that no tourist is going to be there… that stuff stinks worse than the stench of your corruption. Besides, what would all the “good ol’ boys do without all that gamblin’ revenue? We know who runs and operates Aruba and they are not smart businessmen… they are thugs!

      No, Aruba, I see very bad things in your future… and it doesn’t look bright… Please, tell me, how much did you end up paying for that loaf of bread, really?

      Boycott!

    102. Crioyo (in aruba) on January 8th, 2007 1:03 am

      I think AHATA and ATA etc have got their ”the show must go on goggles on”…unless there’s a solution to the crime I don’t think they can do anything else. Their job is to keep the tourists coming so I guess that’s what they’ll have to do, which then means finding replacement countries to attract tourists.

      Aruba was also present at the millionair’s fair in the Netherlands last month. Investing HEAVILY. Curacao didn’t even show up because it was too expensive for them to even be there.

      It’s true, for a boycott to work it’ll have to go on for a longgg time….But what if by then other markets have been tapped to replace the lost revenue of American tourists? Which is what they are trying to do….

      And I still really believe most people will somewhat forget…Everybody has that hidden superman mentality, it happened to them, it won’t happen to me. I’ll be careful etc etc I’ve been to the Bronx i can go to Aruba etc etc…

      After 9/11 the last place I wanted to go to was New York, but now it just doesn’t matter. That’s human nature. Unless there’s hell going on everyday (iraq for example), we’ll ignore it and pretend we’ll always be fine.

      whytegirl,

      i know… people who live here are indeed very nice. nice enough to sweet talk someone into getting in a car for example… ironically….. it has always been our selling point and is even in the national anthem. It’s just very frustrating to see it misused in such a way by j2k.

      Been to Isla del Encanto couple of times…love it.

    103. Crioyo (in aruba) on January 8th, 2007 1:20 am

      patti..

      the point of the desalination plant as i understood is to cut our dependancy on oil, or be an ethanol exporter. Ethanol being cheaper and cleaner than gasoline and not as dependant on oil prices and used as a gasonlin substitute. (correct me if i’m wrong)

      As for the oil refinery, it won’t be here forever. It has already shrunk considerably and doesn’t employ as many people as it once did. Most workers aren’t even local.
      They just pay very good salaries and are a cause of some highschool drop outs.

      As a citizen of San Nicolas I know how it can smell. No wonder the tourists spend their money in Oranjestad, where it doesn’t. Furthermore Barcadera is more of an industrial harbor. No tourists there.

      Tourists focus on Oranjestad & Arikok National Park. San Nicolas is for the brave few who are bored and want to look around or visit prostitutes after 6pm.

    104. mayan_moons on January 8th, 2007 1:22 am

      Hey Carpe!

      Have you had a chance to compare the 2 photos
      i emailed ya?

    105. Patti on January 8th, 2007 1:59 am

      Crioyo:

      Please, let me think about what you say. I am very sleepy and was getting ready to sign off.

      Thank you for sharing your thoughts… see ya tommorrow.

    106. Molly on January 8th, 2007 2:08 am

      #88, Richard: The lawsuits might be assinine, but I am glad that the Kalpoes are suing Dr. Phil. The whole thing sounds stupid, except for one thing. It gives jurisdiction to the whole Natalee case. I can’t wait for discoveries to be done for their lawsuit, and for the Holloway/Twitty countersuit. We should all get a lot of answers during that time. The Kalpoes will be off of Aruba and, haha, in the hands of US lawyers and authorities. So sue all they want. I don’t really think that the Kalpoes will win. I just hope that we can squeeze everything out of them.

      molly (in Houston)

    107. nychic on January 8th, 2007 2:25 am

      hey Crioyo -

      I appreciate your posts here at SM – I think many here do
      not realize that you live & study in Holland and are
      only on holiday in Aruba –
      (obviously why you are posting more at the moment)
      Any word on where the Sloots spent their holidays ?

      p.s. I wonder who that Victoria person is ?

    108. nychic on January 8th, 2007 2:31 am

      klaas -

      I hope SM received a check for that big fat
      timeshare ad in post #24 -
      you might as well put a border around it and
      move it to the right side of the FP !
      ——-

      maybe you should allow some of johnm/kelmal’s posts
      in so people will stop picking on linda !!
      I’ll take linda over people like Victoria any day !!

    109. Pearl on January 8th, 2007 4:04 am

      Great post, # 50, Paralegal!

      And this quote, direct from the mouth of Satish Kalpoe, on June 24, 2005:

      “Joran said if a body is found that WE are in BIG trouble”.

      (Those present when this comment was made: JORAN, DEEPAK, PAULUS, AND SATISH as directly stated to two ALE officials, by Satish on June 24, 2005.)

      ALE officials witnessing this statement created editorial commentary to explain what Satish might mean by his use of the word “tale” concerning a “tale” told to him by Joran:

      “Note: tale does not necessarily mean lie, could mean story”.

      Aruba seems to have a heavy dose of “story” tellers on the island…or would that perhaps be liar-ubas?

      Speaking of liarubas, why did that ALE official go on to tell the media that Natalee could have “come in another way” – when he already knew, as he was telling this “STORY” to the media, that not only was that not true, but in fact, this ALE official knew that Natalee had never been returned to the hotel at ALL, because he already KNEW that JORAN, DEEPAK and SATISH WERE LIARS ABOUT THEIR “DROP OFF AT THE HOLIDAY INN” – “STORY”.
      In fact, this ALE official knew that not only did the “drop off” never happen, but that the “dark skinned man was a lie” as was the “we saw her walk into the lobby” “STORY” – a big lie.

      Does lieing come really easy in Aruba?

      LET’S GO TO THE VIDEO TAPE, SHALL WE, PAULUS?

    110. Richard on January 8th, 2007 6:08 am

      Crioyo, I’m just curious: why do you say that the (Valero?)refinery is the “cause of some highschool (sic) drop outs”? Are you saying that they think a job in the refinery is more attractive than completing their education?

      Even blue-collar jobs demand more and more education these days … so tell them that they are mistaken in their choice.

      But that’s up to them. Anyway, back to the point of our quest. Try to get your “sweet” fellow Arubans to demand justice for Natalee Holloway, and maybe to empathize with the family, who want to know their daughter’s fate and want a fair investigation.

      Sparking a civic movement to do what is right? Now THAT would be something to be proud of, not keeping mum and letting your government’s cover-up continue.

    111. Esther on January 8th, 2007 8:59 am

      I arrived this morning in Holland after 3 weeks vacation in Aruba..
      The beach was crowded o my god… I thought tourism was down but all the hotels were fully booked for christmas and new year…God bless Aruba I love the place..

      And for the person that knows what happend to natalee speak up it has been long enough,give the family some peace..

    112. SUPER DAVE on January 8th, 2007 9:56 am

      #43 stupiest ? new word or something ?

    113. Miss-Underestimated on January 8th, 2007 10:18 am

      Question to Mr. Dompig

      Up until your son Michael made his public statement, you had mantained that the “three were guilty as hell.”

      Shortly after Michael made his statement, you then changed your view, to “Natalee od’d herself”.

      Why did you change your mind? What did Michael tell you or not tell you? For a professional, that you are/were, that makes me wonder, what changed your views?

    114. JusticeforNatalee on January 8th, 2007 10:43 am

      Crioyo,

      Americans will remember Natalee.

      If you think this will blow over in a few years, you fully misunderstand the heart and spirit of Americans. We stand by our own. And we treasure justice.

      Aruba is now associated with injustice and corruption in the Natalee Holloway case. When Americans think of Natalee, they think of their own daughters.

      Justice for Natalee is the only answer. There is absolutely no way around it.

    115. JusticeforNatalee on January 8th, 2007 10:55 am

      The boycott will go on for a long time because Natalee’s case involves a MAJOR injustice. No one forgets a sweet honor student leaving a bar with three punks and never returning.

      This case screams date-rape/drugging, death, and coverup. Also, it is very obvious that J2k are heavily involved (even Joran’s own attorney says so). It disgusts Americans that J2K are running free.

      Americans are smart. We can figure out what happened. We know that ALE failed to investigate properly. We know there is a coverup. And we also know that you are dependent on American tourism.

      We are NEVER coming back to your island until you GIVE NATALEE HOLLOWAY JUSTICE.

    116. SUPER DAVE on January 8th, 2007 11:01 am

      10 years from now Natalee will still be remembered and aruba will suffer. just remember aruba, it will be your families, your children who will suffer so why don’t you do the right thing for your families and force your officials’ hand. they have the answers and you know that yet, you still hang on to your criminal ways and the punishment keeps on coming and there is still more to come so prepare yourself.

    117. JusticeforNatalee on January 8th, 2007 11:20 am

      My quick e-mail to Oprah. Fellow Monkeys, it only take a few minutes and volume helps!

      Oprah,
      You are a good woman who believes in justice and protecting young women.

      This is my fourth try in asking you to have Beth Holloway Twitty on your show. She founded the Safe Travels Foundation so that something good could come from Natalee’s death. Beth is an excellent speaker and courageous person. She would be an excellent guest on your show and has good advice for young women.

    118. Crioyo (in aruba) on January 8th, 2007 11:20 am

      nychic

      hey long time. well this time around i haven’t heard anything at all about the sloots. haven’t seen joran, think he’s in holland, and classes start today btw…haven’t seen the kalpoe’s anywhere either all december, who were still clubbing a few months after natalee disappeared.

      haven’t even seen ”natalee missing” posters anywhere.

      no idea about victoria. my guess, u.s. resident atleast.

    119. Richard on January 8th, 2007 12:12 pm

      WhyteGirl (98) … If I can ask, what does “criolla” mean?

    120. JusticeforNatalee on January 8th, 2007 12:13 pm

      Dr. Rice:

      I admire you very much but am extremely disappointed with your lack of involvement in the Natalee Holloway case. You need to issue a public statement that warns or advises American travelers about Aruba’s hazards.

      Your indifference to Natalee’s case is costing you supporters. I am one of them. Many other mothers and fathers are turned off by your failure to support Natalee, who represents all our American daughters.

      Aruba is a drug-infested island on which drugs are openly sold with no repercussions. Aruba’s crime statistics are doctored–crimes are either not reported or are labeled as “accidents” or “suicides.”

      Gangs of local boys/men target and drug tourists for the purpose of date-rape. How can you condone such behavior? How can you, in good conscience, let young women travel to Aruba unadvised? How can you put our young women at risk?

      Crimes against tourists on Aruba go unprosecuted.

      Aruba Law Enforcement is replete with corruption and involved in a coverup of the Natalee Holloway case. Aruba is thumbing its nose at American tourists and you are letting them do so.

      Did you know that Joran’s own attorney confessed to Karin Janssen that Joran played a major role in Natalee’s disappearance? Joran remains a suspect but still roams free. Same for the Kalpoes. Aruba is just spinning its wheels and putting on shows, with no real desire to solve the case and punish the guilty.

      Dr. Rice, please make a stand and show us that you care about our young daughters and justice. Put Aruba on notice immediately.

    121. Miss-Underestimated on January 8th, 2007 12:16 pm

      Aruba is kaputz…Natalee Holloway will be a constant reminder on Aruba. Let’s face it, Aruba never thought it would get this far with resistance. Ain’t that right Oduber, Dompig. Karin, and the others of the cast of the escapades?

      BTW remember Safe Travels, I imagine will be around along time..Remember Beth Twitty is the spokesperson.

    122. JusticeforNatalee on January 8th, 2007 12:31 pm

      Exactly Miss U!

      And each time Beth speaks, she shows a picture of Natalee and reminds everyone of the injustice done by Aruba.

      Yes, Americans will hear about Aruba’s corrupt ways for a LONG time.

    123. Richard on January 8th, 2007 12:47 pm

      Good letter, JusticeforNatalee. I hope you get more of a response than I did … copies to Aruba Tourism Authority!

    124. SUPER DAVE on January 8th, 2007 1:56 pm

      #120: you would be surprised how little we mean to our politicians when we need them.

    125. vicki on January 8th, 2007 2:00 pm

      GREAT NEWS PPL. I just spoke to the person in Washington that I told you all would help. He has his Supervisor, Carmella People, contacting BETH, he has read SM and BFN, he is appalled over all the “suicides” and they will be having a meeting either tomorrow or Wednesday to discuss with higher ups. I told him that we all thank him for his kindness and care. A true gentleman…I see some action coming guys. KEEP PRAYING…

    126. Miss-Underestimated on January 8th, 2007 2:33 pm

      124. How right you are, look at the headlines here.

      http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,242407,00.html

      So much for 100 hours.

    127. JusticeforNatalee on January 8th, 2007 2:54 pm

      Thanks Vicki.
      That is great news.

      #124 It doesn’t hurt to keep trying.

    128. Richard on January 8th, 2007 3:27 pm

      Vicki, please, please, PLEASE keep us posted on this. If you think more calls would help (is this that Sorensen guy?), give the name and number again.

      Tremendous!

      Let’s hope he can impress on our football-watching Congressmen the importance of helping an American family.

    129. vicki on January 8th, 2007 3:44 pm

      Thanks guys, I have been praying since Natalee went missing for some JUSTICE and I think this is gonna help. Its not the Sorenson guy..he lives on curacao, but someone at the US of A citizens Unit..in Washington. The best is when he said his supervisor will contact BETH… I started crying. I know “sappy girl”…but If I can make Beths life a little easier,As Im sure any of you fine monkees would do,it really bless’s me. This is not coming from LIERUBA so I can trust it. HURRAYYYYYYY!!!

    130. Miss-Underestimated on January 8th, 2007 4:04 pm

      Vicki count me on if you need help with calls, letters,

      Good Job girl….;}

    131. Patti on January 8th, 2007 4:10 pm

      Hey all you Monkeys!!!

      Have you heard anything concerning the lawsuit?

      Five days… and counting!!!

    132. Pearl on January 8th, 2007 6:36 pm

      Great work Miss U, Vicki and J4!

      What a letter, J4!

      Great work, Vicki! Sappy girl? I don’t think so.
      Sounds to me like a girl with a fighting spirit, a girl just like Natalee Holloway who tried to get away and fought back against her killers, but because she was all alone with no one there with any sense of empathy or compassion for her concerning the brutal suffering inflicted on her, because her killers ganged up on her like a bunch of savages, she never had a fighting chance.

      One girl against a gang of men …but, a girl with a fighting spirit, just like you, Vicki!

      I think you make her proud!

      Yes, Joran was right about one thing: if they ever found her body, ALL of them would indeed be in very BIG trouble.
      I guess that’s why Paulus – in the very first day, was already telling Joran, Deepak and Satish not to worry because without her CORPSE, there would not be a case (as we later learned from Karin Janssen that Paulus had indeed been saying – IN THE FIRST DAY OF NATALEE’S DISAPPEARANCE.

      Keep fighting for hope, Vicki.

      Hope and truth, honor and integrity are indeed something worth fighting for.

      And we know that this child had impeccable honor and integrity attached to her good name that no unscrupulous individuals with absolutely no honor or honesty could ever take from this child.

      Honor Natalee, Vicki, by honoring HER TRUTH…exactly as you have been doing…and all of you have been doing, who stand here together by Natalee’s side, fighting for her truth to be told, for her Justice to be honored!

      Justice for Natalee Holloway!
      Justice for Natlaee Holloway!
      Justice for Natalee Holloway!

    133. Tazman on January 8th, 2007 8:01 pm

      WE WANT JUSTICE FOR NATALEE HOLLOWAY!!

      AND WE’RE NOT GOING AWAY TILL WE GET IT!!

      WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS MY FRIENDS!!

      AND WE’LL KEEP ON FIGHTING TILL THE END!!

      WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!!

      WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!!

      NO TIME FOR LOOSERS!!

      CUZ WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!!

      OF THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    134. anne on January 8th, 2007 8:01 pm

      Lots of news about letter writing today! In the spirit of this, I am reprinting the letter I sent to my congressmen. Please see below for the text and for the response I received from one of the four congressman I contacted.

      I urge anyone interested to copy my letter and send it to your congressmen as well. Maybe when the football game is over, they’ll read it. Also, faxing to Capitol Hill seems to be much more efficient than snail mail or even email. I was told that someone has to literally take it out of the fax machine so it doesn’t get held up in a bunch of email or wait to be opened like regular mail.

      Here’s the letter:

      I am a constituent living in _______, and I am writing in regard to Natalee Ann Holloway, the 18-year-old U.S. citizen who disappeared on the island of Aruba and whose family has suffered enormously at the hands of the Aruban government and law enforcement.

      I understand the Holloway-Twitty family is from Alabama; however, there are people all over the country doing as much as they can to help the family recover information about Natalee, as well as to help bring her home to her family.

      There is evidence of substantial corruption within the Aruban Law Enforcement which has resulted in a cover-up of enormous proportions regarding the disappearance of Natalee. Evidence points to her murder, the disposal of her body and the purposeful evasion of law enforcement by those involved.

      I would like to call your attention to the website, scaredmonkeys.com, at which much investigative research has been conducted. The owners of the website have participated in the actual search for Natalee, and posters have scrutinized the case, finding ties to organized crime out of Chicago and South Florida. Videos of Aruba have surfaced on the Internet which feature local officials painting over probable crime sites among dead bodies on rocky beaches. Most alarming is the part of the video featuring a plastic bag left in a basin through which multiple corpses can be seen – one of which shares identical facial features (hairline, teeth, eyes, and nose) of Natalee.

      I appeal to you as a U.S. Congressman to take an interest in this case of a U.S. citizen who cannot return to her country. I hope to increase your awareness of this case and urge you to share the desperation her family endures as they try to seek justice and ultimately recover their daughter.

      Please help bring Natalee home to her family and to the United States where she belongs.

      Here is the response I received from Congressman Chris Van Hollen of Maryland:

      Dear Anne,

      Thank you for contacting me about the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. I appreciate your taking the time to share your views with me.

      Like you, I have been very disappointed by the manner in which Aruban authorities have conducted the investigation. Natalee Holloway’s disappearance is something no parent should have to go through with their child. To this end, I sent a letter last year to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice requesting that the State Department pressure the Aruban government to cooperate with the F.B.I. in this investigation.

      Again,thank you for taking the time to contact me. Please let me know whenever I may be of service.

      Sincerely,
      Chris Van Hollen
      Member of Congress

    135. Patti on January 8th, 2007 8:23 pm

      Awesome!!!

    136. mayan_moons on January 8th, 2007 11:30 pm

      Hey vicki!

      That is great news thank you! Any reasonable law abiding American is or should be outraged at the way Aruba has treated Natalee & her family. The devil is in the details so i’m pleased they came here to get them.

      I too am disappointed the Ms. Rice hasn’t taken any action and called for a travel advisory. I’m willing to cut her alittle slack in that the war going on in Iraq & N. Korea rearing its ugly head, thats alot on anyone’s plate no re-election to worry about either so i’m thinking now is the best time to pitch it again and remind them that as our elected leaders,they owe it not only to the voter but themselves aswell to put our foot down with Aruba. editor of Diario on international tv telling us that bartenders slip ghb into drinks. We have Dennis Jacobs confirming that as he too warns Natalee’s father to “Watch Your Drink” (at Carlos n Charlies) coz someone may slip something in it” You couldn’t make this $tuff up its so twisted.

      Whadda ya want?

      A Travel Advisory

      When do ya want it?

      NOW!

    137. Patti on January 9th, 2007 12:37 am

      Ms. Mayan:

      I agree… the time is right for a travel advisory and I also think we’ll get it. Did you see what Anne has been up to? She’s got a letter from her congress person saying that she is going to request that the Aruban Government allow the F.B.I. to assist in the investigation… She wrote to them.

      I wonder… what should we do this week?

      Wouldn’t it be cool if, all of a sudden, out of the clear blue all these “Natalee” posters are hung up in Aruba, just in time for the Carribean Tourism convention from January 14 – 16?

      Who knows? There may be some angels flying about.

    138. Pearl on January 9th, 2007 1:06 am

      You said it, Mayan Moons!

      Let this child’s truth rise up and let her truth be honored!

      Let this child’s justice be upheld and her family granted the dignity to bury their baby and honor the place they choose to lay her to rest!

      The legacy of Aruban officals to the family of this victimized child has been lies, deception, corruption, collusion, vicious assaults on an innocent child followed by unbearable cruelty, berating remarks inflicted upon the victim’s family, a heartlessness that ignores the savagry of lies and deception by the criminals who took this child away from her loved ones, while continuing to inflict insidious mental and emotional cruelty upon a family who only asked that their baby be given back to them .

      What kind of savages would treat the family members of a brutally beaten/heavy batteried child in such a heartless, vicious manner, denying them the simple human decency of burying their loved one?

      What kind of world have we become when a child can be torn from her loved ones, and imprisoned without any rights, and succumb to such savage cruelty and torture as inflicted repeated upon this child and her family?

      Where are the rights of the child?
      Where are the human rights that uphold this child’s right to be returned to her homeland and country?
      What kind of world sanctions the kidnapping, rape and murder of a young girl, and the brutality of stealing her body, and enying her family her remains?

      At what point are children worthy of being informed and protected from savage men with no conscience, no shame, no remorse, no sense of human decency or compassion?

      What kind of men speak of a victim with such callous indifference: “Without a corpse, there is no case.”, while slandering her honorable good name?

      Why is it that the mother of this brutally beaten child had to then, lay aside her own inconsolable pain and suffering in order to stand alone in defense of Mickey John and Abraham Jones? How could Aruba allow the family members of one of their own ( John and Jones)to be so savagely treated by the ALE with such disregard to the suffering this wrongful arrest inflicted upon their children, their loved ones, their families?

      Is there no shame on the part of the prosecutor and ALE officials who purposefully sought to detain two innocent Black men, who could not possibly have had anything to do with the crimes committed against Natalee, while prosecutors and ALe officials knew very well, that the men who took Natalee away – forever, had lied, decieved, mis-led, and purposefully colluded together to obstruct this child’s truth from ever being discovered.

      What kind of heart and conscience allows killers to roam freely for ten days, permitting their wretched preparations to hide all their darkest deeds from public scrutiny, while destroying every shred of this child’s truth?

      And despite all the cruelty inflicted upon Beth and her family, all the savagery inflicted upon Natalee and her loved ones, this beautiful family rises above the wretchedness of heartless men and women whose lives are goverened by their indifference to human suffering – particularly to that of a child, who was a GUEST, a tourist in their country!
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      Rise up, Natalee and let the world know your truth!
      For we are standing with you by your side,
      and our voices will rise up with you – for all the world to see the torment and suffering inflicted upon you and your family, at the hands of men and women who have no honor, who carry no integrity, who hold no remorse, nor empathy in their hearts for the painful cruelty inflicted upon you and your family.

      Rise up, Natalee and with our voices beneath you, spread your wings and claim your truth!
      Rise up, and embrace the justice that is yours.
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      These heartless men will not bury this child’s voice.
      They cannot crush her honor, or her truth.

      Everyone will come to know her name and HER STORY.
      And each of you, who stood by her, who spoke her truth, and honored her right to justice, will forever be etched within her heart as a voice that came to her aide, through her sorrow, a hand that reached out to hold her, to comfort her beyond the chains they forced upon her grave.

      They cannot bind this child’s spirit, nor crush the hope she longs for, they cannot bury this child’s voice, nor hold bound her truth from being told, nor deny her right to her freedom and her God given right for JUSTICE!

      Rise up dear friends of Natalee, and claim this child’s right to have her justice honored and her truth told in the name of children everywhere!!!

      Justice for Natalee Holloway!
      Honor Natalee’s truth!

    139. just moma on January 9th, 2007 5:28 am

      I posted a “geez” in post 58… it was related to post 54 not to Carpe’s post in 57. Thanks.

    140. just moma on January 9th, 2007 6:03 am

      Too bad a sky writing plane can’t be rented to go up and down the beach of Aruba during the travel agent’s convention like they do on West Coast.
      Shouldn’t bother with the main airport radar since I understand that airport control is done from a neighboring island.

      But then again, with the gag order in Aruba, a plane might be too much in plain site or is it out in “plain view” too much?

    141. Richard on January 9th, 2007 6:08 am

      I don’t think SM has posted it … but the Boston Globe is sponsoring a three-day travel forum in late March. A major participant therein is Aruba Tourism Authority.

      I and at least one other person are looking into making an appearance to protest. At the very least, we can stand outside with Natalee posters, etc., as well as posters of Amy Bradley and maybe Claudia Kirschhock (spelling?).

      I’ve written to the Boston police to ask about the permit process for protests; no results yet.

      I was told that Nelson Oduber himself was planning to show up. That’s too much of a slap in the face to go unaddressed. I’ll post more info as it comes up.

      This year, WE THE PEOPLE will seize the initiative in Natalee’s case. We’ll make our voices heard and FORCE our football-loving congressmen to take action to protect our own citizens … because it is they (us), not Aruba, whose interests the politicians are supposed to represent.

    142. vicki on January 9th, 2007 9:06 am

      Richard, that is great…anything we can do to put a dent in these ppl that wont tell us the truth… You all make me feel like im doing something big…Im an ex New Yorker and very pushy… I just want to help. IT will not be a travel advisory as[I was told] a travel advisory is only issued for places like IRAQ. However, A PUBLIC ANNOCEMENT may be issued to let us all be aware of the DANGERS in ARUBA[this is the only time I will refer to it as ARUBA] Its SATANS ISLAND, as far as Im concerned…but KEEP PRAYING.
      P.S. Thanks Pearl, you made my day.

    143. JusticeforNatalee on January 9th, 2007 9:06 am

      Excellent idea, Richard!

      “GO HOME, ODUBER!”

      “JUSTICE FOR NATALEE”

      “COVERUP IN ARUBA”

    144. Roy on January 9th, 2007 11:46 am

      Dr Rice: Dr, is it? With a PHD in magic! Big time disappearing act after brief tango with Oduber. Oduber apparently possesed more clout than a would-be American presidential contender….That is sad! Oduber skanked her, Bacchus, and all the FBI turds he could chew on. She needs to pull that Human Rights message off her web page because iffn people of influence and power possess no will to fight for the rights of one, she obviously has no ability to fight for the rights of many.

    145. JusticeforNatalee on January 9th, 2007 12:22 pm

      Challenging Dr. Rice to uphold Natalee’s rights is a good argument for anyone writing.

    146. JusticeforNatalee on January 9th, 2007 12:30 pm

      When I say “challenge,” I mean in a respectful manner.

    147. vicki on January 9th, 2007 1:02 pm

      Which makes DR Rice a poor candidate for president of the USA. Maybe we can tell her that nicely in a letter. There is a meeting going on now in Washington about the Public announcement…keep praying

    148. JusticeforNatalee on January 9th, 2007 2:52 pm

      Vicki,

      You ARE doing something big.

      And any kind of public statement that puts Aruba in the negative light that it deserves will help the fight for justice.

    149. Miss-Underestimated on January 9th, 2007 2:59 pm

      Vicki, keep us posted. That would be the best thing to happen in along time. The message would come out loud and clear. Good job.

    150. mayan_moons on January 9th, 2007 9:37 pm

      post#140 just moma

      I like the sky banners idea, ALOT! Lets contact certain companys and business’s to fund it?

    151. mayan_moons on January 9th, 2007 10:00 pm

      Sponsers….

    152. Molly on January 10th, 2007 12:43 am

      #140 moma: On the East Coast there are always small planes flying along the beach with banners. I’m originally from Maryland and Ocean City is always entertaining us with banner planes. That would be an awesome idea to do in Aruba. BOYCOTT ARUBA! JUSTICE FOR NATALEE! zoom…….zoom

      molly (in Houston)

    153. Richard on January 10th, 2007 9:23 am

      And I think the idea I raised some time ago still has merit; buying a block of time on one of those small Hispanic radio stations in Florida whose transmitters are powerful enough to reach Aruba. At some of them, you can buy an hour for a few hundred dollars, according to a Wall Street Journal article.

      Then we take out an ad in Diario telling Arubans to listen to such-and-such radio station at a certain time and date.

      What can Aruba do, block the signal?

      Now we have to come up with a worthwhile message….

    154. elisabeth on January 10th, 2007 10:31 am

      I looked again at the time line and particularly at the transcript of the police car investigation. The translation by Arubagirl is very literal and I presumed that in Dutch the conversation is much clearer than in the translation.I therefore translated the text back into Dutch From my comments you can see that this is indeed the case? ( the italics are by the translator)

      1) Joran: Don’t you think that the police is interested in knowing that Satish touched a girl with the car?
      [the word 'geraakt' is being used, translated here literally, but you can use the word 'hit' also in the context].
      Comment:
      This is quit clear: Satish drove and hit her either by accident or on purpose. This left marks namely, the shit in item 6
      2) Deepak: You think that the girl has nothing on, you will see who f****d who (this sentence was not good to understand) [note of the police officer]
      Comment: If this is a literal translation it says: you think that she was naked. If this was said in Dutch ( dat ze niets aan had) it means that Joran saw her wounded but clothed.
      3) Joran: We will see. Hey, you know when I will laugh, if I’ve given you a slap in the face. I’ll laugh when they find the girl alive, f**k you.
      Comment: I suspect again a very literal translation the meaning is probably: you would be extremely surprised… My interpretation is that here Joran still thinks Natalee might be alive while Deepak assumes death and hints vaguely at raping or at least un-clothing
      4) Joran: I know very well that you are afraid. That is if you two have done something bad with that girl. En if they find the girl, then we shall see
      Comment: as in 3 Joran suspects that something additional has happened after he has last seen her.
      5) Deepak: I want them to find the girl. You are going to tell shit about me that I have buried the girl at fishermans hut
      Comment: Deepak is not afraid of of the eventual discovery note he speaks of “:finding ” not finding alive. The reason for his confidentiality is found in 7
      6) Joran :If they find that girl, then they will see that shit.

      Comment: they will see the wounds from the carhit

      Satish: With us, with us, can they get evidence, but with you not. [ a bit unclear: It's: bij ons, bij ons. Kunnen zij bewijzen krijgen, maar bij jou nief] With lies, you don’t get evidence

      Comment: it is really crystal clear what he says is: we have evidence but you don’t They must have something from Joran with probably blood on it.

      Finally: but not so important
      From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
      Corpus delicti (Latin: “body of crime”) is a term from Western jurisprudence which refers to the principle that it must be proven that a crime has occurred, before a person can be convicted of committing the crime
      Joran: You are telling that he declared, that if there is no body [lijk = dead body], there is no case or I don’t what. All shit. That is totally not true, the only thing is that he said is, if there is no body [lichaam = body], then there isn’t a case.

      Comment: PVDS has used the word corpus in the legal sense. Joran probably has not understood this and gives his own feeble interpretation. No judge, not even in training would state that murder cannot be proven without a victims body. It has been done everywhere also in Holland.

      I feel that it now possible to reconstruct what happened, where to look for the evidence and where the body is unlikely to be.

      ______________

      SM:   I edited a couple of words with **** (klaasend)

    Leave a Reply




    Support Scared Monkeys! make a donation.

     
     
    • NEWS (breaking news alerts or news tips)
    • Red (comments)
    • Dugga (technical issues)
    • Dana (radio show comments)
    • Klaasend (blog and forum issues)
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    Close
    E-mail It