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Welcome to the
Visit Aruba Newsletter!
This section will be updated regularly, so keep coming back...
News Briefs for April 1- 30, 2002
- PRESS CONFERENCE
ON BOARD DE PALM PLEASURE.
Built in Martinique the 70 foot new catamaran, De Palm Pleasure, arrived in Aruba, last
week, said Harold Malmberg, President & CEO De Palm Tours, at yesterday's press
conference.
- BAPTIZM AND
COCKTAIL PARTY DE PALM PLEASURE.
The Minister of Tourism Edison Briezen and the Minister of Labor & Culture Ramon Lee
attended the cocktail party celebrating the arrival of De Palm Pleasure, a brand new 70
foot catamaran operated by De Palm Tours Watersports from the De Palm Tours pier on Palm
Beach.
- BELINDA DE VEER
OPENS A SOLO EXPO.
HUMAN - NATURE, at instituto di cultura.
Belinda de Veer underwent a total transformation, from a trained pharmacist, a physician's
wife, to a full time plastic artist.
- A CHARMING
VERANDA RESTAURANT.
Patrick Boset has been involved with La Cage Folie restaurant since December. The famous
main street retailer, he owns Mango, became a restaurateur by default.
- MAMBO TALK
A meeting of the Association of Merchants for a Better Main Street took place at the ATIA
building in Dakota.
- GIMMICK IS
ARUBA'S FASHION TREND SETTER
Aruba's best kept shopping secret lies in the heart of town, at the Seaport Mall, at the
most obvious of all locations, right across the Sonesta Island boat-dock in the atrium.
- THE FINAL PRODUCT
IS FABULOUS
Artist Elvis Lopez participated in the Septima, 7th Cuban Bienal in 2000. In collaboration
with fellow artist Ryan Dubero, they shot some video
footage while in Havana.
- $AVE in
Aruba with the VisitAruba Plus card!
Your VisitAruba Plus card is a convenient and
effective way to get the most out of your Aruba vacation with significant discounts and
special offers on hotel accommodations, car rental, watersports, sailing and party
cruises, spa treatments, entertainment, casinos, shopping and more!
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PRESS CONFERENCE ON
BOARD DE PALM PLEASURE.
Built in Martinique the 70 foot new catamaran,
De Palm Pleasure, arrived in Aruba, last week, said Harold Malmberg, President & CEO
De Palm Tours, at yesterday's press conference. It was captained by Aruban-born Nymrod
McFarland with two other experienced sailors, Vince Schenker and Sander Vellinga. They
helped deliver the craft from the shipyard to De Palm Tours Watersports, its proud new
owner. The gorgeous craft already sailed three times this week, with dozens of happy vacationers
on board, reported De Palm Tours Watersports Manager Barbra Bregita. When you see the
boat, added general manager David Page, it is inviting, it sells itself. People take just
one look at the craft and they want to go sailing. The Malmberg family - Harold &
Maud, their children Ricky & Lisette, were on hand to welcome press members to a
conference followed by a cocktail party as the De Palm Pleasure was docked at its pier on
the Palm Beach. The boat operates snorkeling tours and makes Snuba available during the
day, for up to 120 passengers. It offers romantic dinner cruises at night, all catered by Le Dome, featuring elegant food and gracious service with up to 70
guests in attendance. The boat was designed in France by French design specialists to
perfectly match Aruba's water conditions. It is custom designed to offer a safe and
comfortable experiences, reiterates Bregita, with a well trained, hospitable crew whose
chief concern is to make guests happy.
 
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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BAPTIZM AND COCKTAIL
PARTY DE PALM PLEASURE.
The Minister of Tourism Edison Briezen and the
Minister of Labor & Culture Ramon Lee attended the cocktail party celebrating the
arrival of De Palm Pleasure, a brand new 70 foot catamaran operated by De Palm Tours
Watersports from the De Palm Tours  pier on Palm Beach. Motorized golf carts picked up VIPs
from the road in front of the hotels, then a red carpet laid in the sand gave guests a
true royal feeling before arriving at the pier. Soft steel pan music, beautiful snacks and
finger foods, free flowing libations and a multicolored sunset were all part of the
evening's entertainment, courtesy of De Palm Tours management, catered by le Dome. Then minister Briezen dosed the decks with French Champagne
pronouncing De Palm Pleasure baptized. Among guests at the party De Palm Tours employees,
hotel managers and other hospitality officials. All had fun exploring the decks, the wheel
house and the bow net of De Palm's new deluxe addition to watersports on the island.
 
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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CELEBRATE EARTH DAY
AT DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, HUSBANDRY AND FISHERIES.
Coming Sunday April 28 2002, Department of
Agriculture, Husbandry and Fisheries (DLVVM) holds a Public Day in celebration of Earth
Day on Aruba, as it has been doing for the last five years. The commercial small grower
will be present selling their products like, home brewed wine, sorghum millet, peanuts,
fruit trees, herbal and indigenous plants. Canashito Farm will sell day-old chicks and
layers feed. Some nature conservation organizations would be present with their goods for fund
raising. The public can visit the petting zoo, the breeding lots and experimental-
andinstruction gardens and the staff will be happy to answer questions. The section of
horticulture will sell fruit trees, fertilizer and seeds. Section of Nature Management
will sell indigenous saplings and Section of Small Ruminants will sell kids and lambs.
Both National Park Arikok and Section of Fisheries will hold their expositions. The
combination of the different stands, organizations and sections creates a market ambiance,
where the public can purchase some agricultural products and receive information. To
complete the ambiance there will be music and some stands selling local refreshments. To
inform the public about two sections of DLVVM, these would give some demonstrations. The
demonstrations starts at 9:30 with milking goats; followed at 10:10 rattle snakes and
11:30 indigenous trees. At 10:45, there is an activity where children can be creative with
coco leaves and at 14:00; DLVVM will announce the winner of the Earth Day quiz. Section of
Small Ruminants provides the demonstration of milking goats to maintain the public's
interest in this part of the section. For almost ten years, DLVVM has a pair of
Rattlesnakes in captivity to inform the public about their endangered status on Aruba.
This demonstration is limited to a half hour as the snakes are nervous around crowds,
although small groups of people are welcome to visit them during regular office hours. In
the orchard of indigenous trees, Section of Nature Management will hold its demonstration,
which consists of a small-guided tour along the present specimens with explanations about
their growth and the extinction threats they confront. This demonstration lasts about half
hour.
Earth Day celebrations at Santa Rosa, DLVVM are always in a festive mood, but DLVVM hopes
that the public would realize the seriousness of the dangers threatening our home, the
earth planet. Through the small-guided tour in the indigenous orchard, DLVVM emphasizes
the loss of biodiversity happening now in Aruba. This would not be the only action
undertaken by DLVVM. Past month DLVVM attended a CITES seminar. CITES stands for
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna. DLVVM would
comment extensively about this seminar in another press release. At the end of this year,
DLVVM expects to receive the landscape ecological vegetation map of Aruba from CARMABI. In
June, DLVVM plans to participate at the nature forum of the Netherlands Antilles, and
receive a nature monitoring system for the Islands. When applied the system would provide
policy makers with sound indicators of the status of the nature in Aruba. The government
of Aruba plans to introduce the zoning ordinance and the environment ordinance in the near
future. Still the participation of the public would be much needed to protect our home,
the earth planet. They can do so by donating to the nature conservation organizations, or
by becoming their volunteers. At last, the public contributes by taking on a modest
lifestyle, for instance by using alternative transportation than the car or by spilling
less drinking water. Only through everyone's effort, the earth would stand a chance
against the threats of loss in biodiversity, overuse of energy, lack of potable water and
global deforestation.
Earth Day at Santa Rosa, DLVVM, starts at 9 o'clock in the morning and ends at 3 'o clock
in the afternoon. DLVVM invites everyone to come celebrate Earth Day and receive
information about the primary section. Santa Rosa is located at Piedra Plat # 114, between
the Piedra Plat Protestant Church and the bridge across the ditch at Piedra Plat. For more
information, call 856473/ 858102/ 856372, fax 855639 and email: dirlvvm@setarnet.aw.
[courtesy of
DLVVM, section of Natural Resources]
[Facundo
Franken]
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YELLOW FROM
FLOWERING KIBRAHACHA.
These days the Arubian landscape looks yellow
because of the flowering Kibrahacha (Tabebuia billbergii). Around and in Santa Cruz but
also in Arikok National Park the visitor can distinguish amongst the gray of the leaf
shedding vegetation and the green of the cactus (Ritterocereus griseus) and Watapana
(Caesalpinia coriaria), the yellow of Kibrahacha. Conspicuous are the different flowering
specimens in house gardens, indicating the preference of the public to view this plant as
an adequate garden specimen. Also those specimens in the indigenous tree garden of the
agricultural station at Department of Agriculture, Husbandry and Fisheries (DLVVM) are in
bloom. These are on drip irrigation. Kibrahacha is an indigenous tree of Aruba felled in the
past for its hard timber. The latter gave it its local name, which means axe breaker. It
is the national tree of Venezuela and called Araguaney. On Aruba, it grows primarily on
batholithic soils, rarely seen on calciferous soils. It is so well adapted to the arid
Arubian climate that it stands leafless for nearly the whole year. Only during the short
rainy season, people can find it in full leaf. It flowers at the start of the dry period
for only a few days, then it quickly grows seedpods and within a month, it sheds ripe
seeds. These are small and light; contain very little nutrient reserve for the embryo,
suggesting a short germinating period. For a tree setting seeds at the start of the dry
season, one would expect seeds heavy with reserve nutrients to overcome the lasting dry
period. On the other hand, one Kibrahacha seedpod contains up to 40 seeds and one tree
produces several seedpods. There are other indigenous trees that also flowers and produces
light seeds at the start of the dry season like Brazil (Haematoxylon brasilleto). Until
last year, DLVVM preserved no Kibrahacha seeds, as these tend to lose their germinating
power quickly. As from then DLVVM has, some seeds preserved that when planted last
February did germinate. DLVVM got this seed in 2000, the year that had an enduring rainy
season. Probably this tree specimen acquired sufficient nutrients and gave some to its
seeds.
This year it seems like there will be a long
dry season that has started earlier, although it has rained a little these days. The leaf
shedding vegetation shows this climatic occurrence, as it already shed its leaves for this
year. Some also flowered earlier than normal this year, like Brazil and Curahout
(Peltophorum acutifolium). DLVVM expected only a few specimens of Kibrahacha to set
flowers, as last year many did, including those on Hooiberg (Haystack Hill). Those that
did flower last year would have depleted their nutrient reserve by then and have none this
year, as last year the long dry season  gave them little chance to replenish their reserves. When
it rains, a tree produces energy with the aid of sunlight and water. Indigenous trees have
the ability to preserve energy in nutrient reserves for when living conditions are poor. A
long rainy season provides a tree with more opportunity to produce more energy and to
preserve this in nutrient reserves. The last good rainy season dates back to the year
2000. Generally indigenous trees can easily overcome one year with a poor rainy season,
but when it last longer some individual trees will succumb. It seems like Kibrahacha
specimens have at least enough reserves to again set flowers this year. It is still
possible that the now flowering specimens did not flower last year, in which case would
mean that those on Hooiberg would not flower this year. Suggesting that not all Kibrahacha
tree specimens flowers in the same year.
DLVVM would keep an eye on those on Hooiberg.
From this observation should be exempted those trees growing in gardens as these do not
depend on their reserves for subsistence as they regularly receive water. DLVVM studies
and cultivates indigenous tree species and offers these for sale to the public as part of
its nature management task. DLVVM is located at Piedra Plat # 114, between the Piedra Plat
Protestant Church and the bridge across the ditch at Piedra Plat. The gate is open for
visiting the indigenous tree garden from 7 to 12 o'clock in the morning and from 1 to 4 'o
clock in the afternoon. Sales until 3'o clock in the afternoon. For more information, call
856473.
[courtesy of
DLVVM, section of Natural Resources]
[Facundo
Franken]
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THE NEEDS OF MARIS
STELLA RESIDENTS STUDIED BY IKE COHEN AND THE REYNAERS.
In anticipation of the 6th Annual Manchebo
Charity Fair taking place June 1, 2002, Aruba's most dynamic senior citizen, Ike Cohen,
invited the Reynaers, experts in the field of Senior Care, to come to Aruba. He wanted to
discuss the island's needs and evaluate the current situation together with S.A.B.A., the
non
profit foundation in charge of running the old age homes here. After visiting three
foundation-run homes, specific needs of staff in addition to numerous wishes from senior
residents were discussed. Having visited many homes worldwide, the Reynaers were very
impressed with the level of care given to seniors in Aruba, in comparison to other
countries. They praised the dedication of the staff and the friendliness with which they
treat their clients. As a result of their visit, an order of 12 special hospital beds and
night tables was placed. The expensive equipment is expected to ship mid-April, and arrive
 here
mid-May. Another order of 28 beds, will be placed at the heels of the successful fund
raising party held on Ike's Cohen's birthday. Additionally, together with S.A.B.A's board
of directors, Ronnie Nicholaas will prepare and submit a list of relevant items, those
most urgently needed. All will be purchased with cash proceeds from Ike's 91st birthday
bash. Should you wish to contribute to life in an old age home in Aruba, please buy a
party ticket for just Afls 100/$55 at the Manchebo front desk, TEC Inc. and from any members of Aruba's service
clubs: Quota, Lions, Kiwanis & the Women's Club.
Visiting the old age home Maris Stella, Eric
Reynaers, Director/Administrator of 6 senior homes in the Netherlands housing a total of
1,100 clients, and Elly Reynaers, owner/operator of a medical supply wholesale company,
also in the Netherlands. The two foreign experts conferred with Ronnie Nicholaas, director
of S.A.B.A., the non-profit foundation operating the old age homes in Aruba. At
Maris-Stella, the guests received a tour of the facility by nurse Agnes and nurse Flora.
They were accompanied by Theo, a long time Maris Stella resident.
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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ELIZA LEJUEZ BRIGHT
IMAGES ADD TO THE BEAUTY OF THE RADISSON.
Eliza Lejuez presented 19 new works of art to
the Radisson Aruba Resort & Casino management team, Thursday. The artwork commissioned
by the resort enhances the beauty and tropical flair of Aruba's Grand Dame. The canvases
now grace the landings of the Curacao Tower; some add to the Caribbean ambiance in
the Aruba Tower Suites and others contribute to the serenity and tranquility of the lower
lobby Spa. On the eve of the Millennium when the resort re-opened at the end of a 20-month
renovation period, the interior designers naturally included beautiful artwork for the
public spaces and ballroom, explains General Manager Jeff Lesker. As management is on an
ongoing improvement and enhancement quest, Eliza Lejuez' work is a wonderful addition, he
states. In search of the appropriate artistic expression, several local artists were asked
to summit proposals. Eliza was the one winning the hearts of the commission in charge of
the buying decision. Louela Brezovar, the resort's Rooms Division Manager who headed the
decision-making team, says Eliza's work was colorful and uninhibited for display in public
areas, yet subdued and understated as called for in the Spa. The paintings in the Curacao  Tower landings
were inspired by the Radisson colorful parrots. The birds are represented in bold splashes
of bright colors. The canvases in the Aruba Tower suites reflect upon Aruba's ocean and
desert views. The work in the Spa interprets water and its mysterious molecular
combination. A special cocktail party welcomed the art work to the resort. It was hosted
by the Radisson's Executive Committee. We're proud to showcase Aruban art, says Lesker,
help promote local culture and give value to local talent. Eliza studied in Holland and is
recently back on the island. Married to Chris Lejuez, the couple has a little baby. A solo
exhibition for Eliza is upcoming at Cas Di Cultura at the end of the year.
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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LOS ARBONITOS, LAUNCH
THEIR FIRST MUSIC CD.
Guests booking the de Palm Tours Fantasy
Dinner & Dance Cruise, swear the best part of the trip is the music of Los Arbonitos.
Having sailed at sunset from the Palm Beach pier, guests arrive at the Oranjestad harbor,
and disembark at the Seaport Marina, into the sprawling Don Carlo eatery. The unplugged
local band which serenades night-trippers at dinner is the focal
point of the evening meal. Members humbly introduce themselves as Los Arbonitos and
Valerie Camacho, de Palm’s director of marketing reports they have been working with
the company for 19 years. On Thursday, it sprinkled a bit, and the dining room was
rearranging itself under the canopy for extra rain protection, when Los Arbonitos poured
champagne on their newly pressed CD. It is very charming. The music is very old fashioned,
and all originally composed. Andres Maduro is credited for most of the songs, Marlon
Maduro for the rest. This is a joint effort. The soloists, Andres, Tamara, Rey and Hose
all share that famous last name, Maduro. Frank Robles de Medina lends his voice to Mi
Dushi Aruba, a love song to the island.
The CD is pure folklore, influence quite a bit by regional giants such as Carlos Vives. It
featured uncomplicated lyrics about practically anything. In E Mucha Bunita, innocently
praising the looks of a young girl and her beautiful smile, the accordion carries the tune
while the guitarists and the percussionist, provide the rhythmic follow-up. No Ta
Imposibel claims that an eternal, faithful love is not impossible, in the haunting
romantic voice of Tamara, with plenty of solo-accordion to show off the musician’s
incredible ability. For the humorous Pega Pega, the soulful Carino, the romantic Dia Mi a
Conose Bo and Pilin, the percussionist keeps the rhythm going looking. Mi Dushi Aruba, an
Antillean waltz praises the island, hailing Aruba as the prettiest in the Caribbean. It is
a timeless expression of love to the rock on which we live. The very entertaining Awendia
Tur Cos Ta Moderno, is a characteristic party song. We’ve become so modern the singer
complains, we no longer want to do the waltz, it’s the Cha-Cha that we crave!
Pinocchio, E Tempo Di Awor & Despierta Amante wraps up the CD. The music is guaranteed
to bring a twinkle into your eye! You may get your own copy at Don Carlo’s.
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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ARUBAN TOUR OPERATORS
RECEIVE TOP HONORS FROM PRINCESS CRUISES
The magnificent Dawn Princess cruise ship
awarded two of Aruba’s finest Tour Operators top honors in a ceremony held on board.
Both operators received the greatest amount of customer
compliments during the busy high-season of 2001/2002. Aruba’s De Palm Tours was
recognized for “Shore Excursion of the Season” in the class of “4-Wheel
Drive Safari, ” and Peclican Watersports Adventures earned “Shore Excursion of
the Season” in the class of “Catamaran Snorkel & Beach Cruise.” On hand
to receive the awards Ezmeralda Schotman, Ivan Gordijk and Loinel Henriquez for De Palm
Tours, Michel Profet, Carlos Ramos and Augusto Montbrun for Pelican Watersports
Adventures.
Representatives from the Dawn Princess, including Captain David Calabrese, Shore Excursion
Manager Vivienne Lambert and tour guide Dolores posed for a snapshot with the award
winners. Warm congratulations were showered on De Palm Tours and Pelican Watersports
Adventures for their fantastic accomplishment, namely delivering 100% guest satisfaction.
“Aruba’s Tour Operators all work together, we get along nicely and help each
other in every way we can," explained Schotman. Profet pointed out such cooperation
is exclusive for Aruba, and makes the Dawn Princess Shore Excursion booking agents very
confortable on the island.
Following the award presentation, the local representatives and accompanying press members
were given a tour of the impressive Dawn Princess, which is traveling with 2,101
passengers and 871 crewmembers. After touring the many decks, restaurants, disco, atrium
and promenade the local party was treated to an elegant lunch at one of the many wonderful
restaurants onboard the Dawn Princess. We're looking forward to next season, says
Schotman, it feels good to make people happy. We're proud to contribute to tourism on the
island.
 
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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THE CREW OF MISS TEEN
& MR. HOT BODY
MR. HOT BODY. Ronchi de Cuba,
presented quite a spectacle during the Mr. Hot Body competition. Beside the Mr.
Aruba contestants, Ronchi cluttered the stage with Miss Teen candidates mixed with the
most popular models in town, at Cas di Niki, Friday night. The show also included
the question round, judging the boys for brains not just muscle . . .
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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BELINDA DE VEER OPENS
A SOLO EXPO
HUMAN - NATURE, at instituto di cultura.
Belinda de Veer underwent a total transformation, from a trained pharmacist, a physician's
wife, to a full time plastic artist. She's always been artistic, she says, first playing
the piano, then Atelier 89 unleashed hidden talents in her and she became a painter. Her
true-self was finally able to emerge. Thank you husband, she says to Dr. v/d Linden, for
being so understanding and accepting of the switch.
I've see some of Belinda's work before at Cas Di Cultura and at Alida Martinez' Insight
gallery. Belinda has a recognizable style, one that people can relate to, that's why she
is also capable of selling her work. The colors, brown and rusty reddish-brown with a touch of
yellow are familiar and warm. Her faded blues and grey-blues are weathered and poetic. She
mixes writing, broken shells, barb wire, drift wood and crystals with paint for an extra
layer, Aruba's recycled past. She starts all paintings from the outside giving her work a
well defined border then sinks into the inside, just the way we do, first considering the
form then the content. Some of her work is erotic after all she is a woman and sexuality
is a part of Human - Nature. Besides cocolishi, on Aruba, has more than one meaning. On
the surface, Belinda's exposition is about the search of a fine balance between mankind
and its environment. On the inside its probably about the treasures which lie within, even
if they are old and broken, they are nevertheless ready to be explored and exhibited . . .
 
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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A CHARMING VERANDA
RESTAURANT.
Patrick Boset has been involved with La Cage
Folie restaurant since December. The famous main street retailer, he owns Mango, became a
restaurateur by default. When "The 3 Little Birds" folded, Chef Marc Vullinghs
has naturally become unemployed. Patrick couldn't see his favorite cook out of the kitchen
and reopened the restaurant, with the chef as his partner. The third leg of this
interesting combo is Michael v/d Berg, perhaps Aruba's top wine expert. Michael is
responsible for an amazing wine list, we counted six pages, with exquisite varieties from
around the globe. Marc and very cute wife Angela now rule the rooftop veranda restaurant
at the heart of town.
The menu features Marc’s signature dishes, among them his Duck Breast
swimming in a pool of fresh orange and peach sauce, and a French Rack of Lamb, piled high,
flavored with honey and thyme. The appetizers run the gamut from smoked salmon to foie
gras, the later served with slices of sautéed apples and a half warm port sauce. The fish
and shrimp entrees have a distinct French accent, the red snapper arrives at the table in
a Dijon sauce, the shrimp are pan-fried in butter, garlic and white wine, finished with
rich cream.
Besides carefully prepared signature dishes, desserts are very nice especially the
not-too-sweet Caramel Flan and the Pico Bello Coupe Sorbet. Yet Marc's crowning glory is
an amazing, warm/cool/fluffy Sabayon with Vanilla Ice Cream floating ripe red
strawberries.
This is boutique type restaurant, says Marc and we tailor all dishes to taste. If you find
nothing you like on the menu - which is impossible, we’ll just serve you whatever you
want, the way you like it! So bring your finicky eating habits to la Cage Folie. It is the
only restaurant on Aruba that doesn’t mind guests’ creativity in helping
re-write the already excellent menu.
Located on the top floor of the Mango building, leave your shoes at the door. As there is
sand on the floor, this is a casual and barefoot experience.
 
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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MAMBO TALK
A meeting of the Association of Merchants for
a Better Main Street took place at the ATIA building in Dakota. The association, known as
Mambo, reared its sleepy head last year and started fighting the business slump on the
main street. The first shopping day was organized and proved a big success. What made the
difference was the fact that the merchant association managed for the first time in
history to close the main street for traffic. The whole island came out to stroll, window
shop and have a fun time on Caya Betico Croes.
The street once knew good days. The Bolivar was 4.3 to a dollar and the Venezuelans
shopped. Americans shopped as well, only on a somewhat smaller scale. Then the
south-American economy collapsed and the main street’s star dimmed. The malls were
built, first the Seaport then the Marketplace. Later Royal Plaza, arrived on the scene and
while they were not immediately successful their developers tweaked and tweaked until the
mix of merchants and services was right. All along the traffic on the main street dwindled
to almost nothing.
Good new, there is a renaissance now. Some big names call the main street home now and
Mambo is optimistic again.
In last night’s meeting the Shopping Bazaar calendar was introduced, as well as a
very exciting program spearheaded by the Caribbean Mercantile Bank. “Expect More”
is a campaign offering merchants money at a reasonable interest rate. The funds may be
earmarked for upgrades and renovations of facades, decor, equipment. Whatever. With
lending facilities available, Mambo believes that merchants will be motivated to make
investments and improve their product. Parking which is a problem around the downtown area
is being helped Saturdays, as CMB made their parking facility available during that time,
free of charge.
Mambo has quite some ambitious plans. Most importantly says Audrey Lacle, she owns
Maggy’s perfumeries, is to stay in the news, to remain active. With Nancy Lemmers at
the helm of Mambo’s PR and Padma Mahtani as the grey eminence, she own Artistic
Boutique, Mambo now has a drive and renewed commitment.
Security, entertainment, beautification, public restrooms, are all issues vigorously
addressed by the organizations. Inspire by downtown Las Vegas which was a ghost town 10
years ago, Ludwina Vis, Lucor jewelers, brought up the suggestion to place a canopy over
the street, shutting some of our island’s harsh elements out. Whatever it is that the
merchants are doing, they are doing the right thing. Keep trucking, keep plugging, good
days are on the horizons.
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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GIMMICK IS ARUBA'S
FASHION TREND SETTER
Aruba's best kept shopping secret lies in the
heart of town, at the Seaport Mall, at the most obvious of all locations, right across the
Sonesta Island boat-dock in the atrium. Gimmick is a mother-daughter hobby, turned full time
job. Clemmy and her gorgeous Minouche have always been voted best-dressed by the local
magazines. Then seven years ago, the two decided to venture into business, importing top
European lines to the island. They first opened at Sun Plaza and were very well received
by dedicated followers of fashion. Then they moved into the Seaport Mall into a nice
location, and recently transitioned into one of the mall's premium spots. Their beautiful
boutique carries the sexy Anti Flirt and Tank lines, business attire by Jean Paul,
Bandolera & CCDK, fashion jewelry by Otazu, as well as select casual wear by my-diary, Sophia
Pigozzi, A-rticles and Stills. You will be pleased to know that the prestigious Max Mara
weekend collection has just been added to the mix. Minouche and Clemmy travel to Europe
frequently and visit all the large prêt-a porter shows in Germany, Italy and France. They
both prefer classic, timeless, sexy pieces and dictate the taste at every grand party and
social affair. Minouche is also the TV anchor of a popular show, Cas & Estilo,
exploring Aruba's architecture and interior design. She is planning a 12 episode season
this year. Visit Gimmick at the Seaport Mall, #839244.
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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THE FINAL PRODUCT IS
FABULOUS
Artist Elvis Lopez participated in the
Septima, 7th Cuban Bienal in 2000. In collaboration with fellow artist Ryan Dubero, they
shot some video footage while in Havana. For lack of funds, the material
was never edited. In walk Caribbean Mercantile Bank and The Prince Bernhardt Fund and foot
some of the bill with the local foundation in charge of culture, UNOCA. The finished
product is fabulous. I urge you to go see, Cas di Cultura, April 5, 8 p.m. The movie is
about one hour long and shows international artists exhibiting riveting work; the music is
great, Elvis plays the moderator and interviewer with great charm. The film will be shown
around Aruba in school to encourage artistic expression among students . . .
[courtesy of Rona Coster]
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