statia news no. 18

INDEPENDENT NEWSLETTER

NOVEMBER 26, 2009 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 18

STATIA NEWS

EDITORIAL

Jopie Abraham draws attention with the Bonairean

referendum. On www.statianews.com you can see the advice Judge Bob de Wit gave and some other articles concerning the referendum. For Statia and Saba, it would be very convenient if Bonaire had it’s own “free association” (as I under‐stand it, they want the same connection with Hol‐land the present “Dutch Antilles” has.) Statia and Saba will be run more efficiënt and we will attract people from Sint Maarten. The Windward islands are totally different from the ABC islands and will be much better off not having to work together with the ABC islands. Statia formally needs a new referendum. Local Government never should have signed a treaty against the will of the people. You can compare the feeling of injustice the Statians felt with the feeling the Dutch people had when they voted against the European constitution in the referndum some years ago. That constitution did come. On Statia you sometimes hear: “The Dutch can’t impose their rules on us!” but I bet that if there will

be a referendum everybody will vote for becoming a municipality of the Netherlands. In my opinion, the people on Statia, Saba and Bonaire need to know what their perspective is. To what extend can we change the rules after 5 years, when the “evaluation”takes place. Why can’t Statia and Saba and St, Maarten together become a country within the Kingdom in 5 years? Why can’t these islands be “Koninkrijkseilanden” like it was discussed some years ago when Mr. Ernst Hirsch Balin was in charge of Koninkrijkszaken? Where are the islands working towards? Are we working towards more reliance on Holland, or more independence from Holland? And of course: What about the equal treatment of the citizens? “If we will have gay marriages, we must have a coffeeshop!” I hear on the street. Enjoy Statianews, Annemieke Kusters

Statia’s Developent Plan, Phase 2, Page 2 Statia’s Develop-ment Plan, Phase 1, Page 3 Three Focuses, Page 4 Steba Anniversary, Page 5 Statia Day, Page 6,7 In Depth: the Dol-lar, Page 8,9 SWOT, page 9 Statia and Texel, 0 Statia Poetry, page 11 Statia Legend gets his own Stamp, Page 12,13 Letters to the Edi-tor, page 14 Announcements Page 15,...19

The bench Michiel Bijkerk placed near the Government building in Bonaire.

LOCAL NEWS STATIA NEWS

The three major focuses are: “Statia for the Statians”, “Touristic Statia” and “Innovative Statia”. The people from Rotterdam will explain what these focuses will mean for the development of Statia. At the meeting, everybody will have a say and after these explanations, each participant will be given a sticker to vote for the focus of their pref‐erence. In the process this meeting is very important. It will educate us on what the consequences will be for decisions made for our future. Investors can be at‐tracted by the island, when they know what the focus will be on. The results of the evening (what is the preferred focus and what other options did people come up with?) will be used to develop a more definite plan. The rest of the process to come is as follows: “The development options and scenarios are to be discussed with

government, council, stakeholders and civilians (step 1, AK) in the next phase. This will be followed by a profound discussion about the main direction of the development of St. Eustatius, in which all relevant information/choices are to be involved. The output of the discussion will be used as input for the concept development plan. After the government and the council have discussed the concept, the development plan will be ready for (formal) community participation. This procedure includes the possibility for stakeholders and civilians to object against the

development plan.” (from the “Note of Outlines and Choi‐ces”)

Tuesday night December 1 starting at 7.30 in the Lions’ Den It’s going to happen! All the people on Statia are invited to come to the town hall‐meeting next Tuesday, December 1. RBOI, a spatial planning bureau from Rotterdam, has been hired by Statia’s planning bureau to help with making a plan for the future of Statia. Statianews informed you about the road to come to that plan. The people from RBOI where here on Statia a few months ago. They talked to a lot of entrepreneurs and institutions, they collected older development plans and other surveys and went back to Rotterdam to make a report. This report is ready now and Saturday RBOI will be back on Statia to present it. It’s called: “Note of Outlines and Choices”. This means we come to the beginning of the next phase. Step 1 in that phase is to inform the citizens of Statia. There will be a town hall meeting where the outlines of three different focuses that Statia could choose from are to be presented.

Nov, 26, 2009

STATIA’S DEVELOPMENT PLAN PHASE 2 IN THE PROCESS


Sufficient en good housing With regard to the income distribution on St. Eustatius and the desired population growth, a substantial part of the housing program has to be developed in the shape of social housing. This means a mixed program, with atten‐tion for starting families, but also for the elderly so that their dwellings can re‐enter the housing market. Further, the quality of housing has to improve. That means renovation of existing houses and demolishment of barracks. Protection of historic and archaeological buildings/remains To preserve valuable heritage and archaeological remains for next generations it is important to take well consid‐ered actions in relation to spatial developments. There characteristic buildings/objects and archaeological remains should be protected and made be visible and accessible. Upgrade and expand infrastructure For economic, touristic and residential growth invest‐ments in infrastructure are irreversible. For a sustainable future, investments in the quality and capacity of the road network and the airport have to be done. Relocation of the harbour is addressed if the need is proved. From a physical point of view, relocation of the harbour is de‐sired, because it limits heavy traffic from the current har‐bour through Lower Town and Oranjestad. Furthermore construction of a water distribution network and a under ground electricity and communication network is needed. Environmental concerns Special attention has to be given to solutions of inade‐quate waste collection, which puts a burden on the eco‐logical environment of the island. Besides that measures are needed to fight erosion. Create touristic basic level St. Eustatius has tourists a lot to offer. To make use of this advantage a basic level of touristic facilities and activities should be developed. In order to do so, at least the amount of hotel rooms should be extended and Oranje bay beach should be reestablished.

The final development plan takes into account so‐cial, economical and physical aspects, but concen‐trates on the physical consequences of social and economic choices, which will have to be made. Siem Dijkshoorn of Statia’s Planningbureau told me that consequences of a focus for Statia’s develop‐ment need more study. The bureau from Rotterdam (RBOI) was also sollic‐ited by Bonaire to help make their development plan. Statia made the same choice, not because of Bonaire, but because RBOI has a good reputation and a lot of useful experience. (check: www.rboi.nl). They have made a SWOT (Strengths; Weaknesses; Opportunities; Threats) (see page 9) analysis of Statia and they also made a list of basic require‐ments to come to any kind of development. These basic requirements are (from the “Note of Outlines and Choices”):

Good and sufficient education A higher level of prosperity starts with good education. It offers opportunities for better individual development and contributes to economical progression. That is why investments in upgrading education must be done. Upgrade social and cultural facilities In combination with good and sufficient education it is important to invest in a cohered and safe society. There‐fore special attention for youth (education programs and support) and sufficient social and cultural facilities are needed, such as sports and playground facilities. In rela‐tion to the increase of elderly people the quality of medi‐cal care should be upgraded. Stimulate local entrepreneurship Local entrepreneurship gives lower educated people a perspective on the labour market. This requires stimula‐tion of local entrepreneurship.

Nov, 26, 2009

STATIA’S DEVELOPMENT PLAN PHASE 1 IN THE PROCESS

LOCAL NEWS STATIA NEWS Nov, 26, 2009

PHASE 2: THREE FOCUSES urban area must be constricted. ‘Living in the countryside’ might be a market for second homes and houses for the retired. Compliant to the rustic environment and rural sphere the touristic development of the island will be small and focused on nature, history and diving tourism. Development of extra hotel-capacity will take place in Lower Town. Increase of touristic facilities such as shops, restaurants and touristic information are developed in Lower Town and Oranjestad (around Fort Oranjestraat).

FOCUS 2: Touristic Statia:

Context of scenario Key-point of the touristic promotion is the Golden Era (rich history) and unique diving destination. Apart from that, Statia offers a nice beach and hiking opportunities in the National Parks. The historical sites will be more visible en accessible for tourists (driving and walking tours, signs, rebuild some historical sites). An interesting option is to restore a plantation site. This plantation has a function as historical information point. On this site an old plantation house (Schotsenhoek) can be rebuild and one of the agri-cultural products from the Golden Era is cultivated (for example sugarcane). With the use of reef balls and changes to the harbor, the beach at Lower Town is enlarged and conserved. Redevelopment of the Lower Town area with the old merchant houses (restored en rebuild) into hotels, res-taurants, bars, shops, diving schools offer a new improved touristic attraction. It is a good opportunity to improve the visibility of the history. The use of the National Parks can be improved by realization of information centers, enlarging the diversity of vegetation and creating vantage points on the Quill. Also the Botanical Garden can be upgraded as a touristic func-tion. With medium-sized hotels of good quality, Statia wants to attract a broad market of tourism. The size of the hotels is in proportion with the scale of the island and the minimal need of hotel rooms (400) to interest tour opera-tors. In addition to the medium-sized hotels built in Lower Town there are possibilities to build one or two resorts/eco lodges along the Weg naar de White Wall or Zeelandia/Venus Bay. In order to attract more tourists the touristic attractions can be expanded by a for example a golf course and wellness facilities. Important requirements are upgrad-ing the service level and improve (flight) connections. In this context, attracting a hotel management school could be interesting. FOCUS 3: Innovative Statia: Context of scenario This scenario assumes an innovative Statia. By investing in strong economic elements of the island, Statia becomes an example of innovation and technology (for example windmills, solar collectors, heat recovery and medical re-search). Statia Oil and the Medical School are the most fitting organizations in this context. Both organizations can work as spin-off for other enterprises. A higher-educated population is a requirement to obtain this goal. This means that, besides investing in Statia Oil, the Medical School and related enterprises, education has to be improved. More courses and improvement of the current quality of educa-tion are priorities. In line with ‘Innovative Statia’, Statia wants to be associated with ecologically sound tourism. Ecolodges can be realized along the Weg naar de White Wall in such way that they blend into the landscape.

Below, from the “Note of Outlines and Choices”, the three scenario’s under consideration:

FOCUS 1: Statia for the Statians: Context of scenario Statia for Statians begins with ameliorating the current qualities to achieve a rustic and pleasant living environ-ment. Major growth of the population is not the intension but growth to accommodate the natural accretion and a small increase of the population to achieve a sustainable economic position. Possibilities for increase are second houses and retirement facilities. The quality of housing and facilities in Oranjestad will be must be improved. The hous-ing expansion should take place in some defined areas. In these areas good basic facilities are required (roads, elec-tricity, drinking water, sewing system). Other areas must be protected in order to preserve the spatial qualities of the island. The main economic factors are the agricultural sec-tor, confined tourism development and small enterprises. The appropriate agricultural grounds are optimal used. This enables utilization of the productive grounds for own use (self-sufficient island) and for export of typically Statian products (for example: Statia Goat and beef, Statia jam, Statia lobster). Agriculture enterprises with large plots will be necessary to make this a success. Therefore, large new urbanization projects have to be located in the current urban area so that enough grounds remain available for agriculture, horti-culture and husbandry. Housing development outside the

Oiltanker as seen from the Dutch Reformed Church (picture by Harry Verwayen)


lic Private Partnership to improve our harbor facili-ties.” Another issue Koos put forward is the import of foreign labor: “In order to achieve economic devel-opment the availability of a sufficient and adequate labor force is a first requirement. Seeing the small scale of our population any substantial new develop-ment will require the importation of foreign labor. Skilled as well as unskilled labor is insufficiently available in Statia. Government policy should aim at filling the gab between demand and the availability of indigenous labor. Unskilled migrant workers may be necessary only in the short- and medium term, where the demand for skilled workers and profes-sionals will increase with economic development. Skilled workers, professionals and entrepreneurs may be recruited and encouraged to make Statia their home. The rational is not just to increase the level of skills in an expanding economy, but to en-sure that these skills are imparted to the local popu-lation and continue to be reproduced in future gen-erations thereby enhancing population quality. “ After congratulating the business community with this milestone, Koos ends his speech with this rec-ommendation: “I would like to encourage also those businesses who are not a member as yet to join. Your membership serves not only to support the organization. Membership may also be in the inter-est of your company. STEBA, as a collective body, will be able to represent your general interest more effectively than you will be able to do as an individ-ual company.” If you want to read the entire speech, please visit www.statianews.com.

October 31th, the 25th anniversary of STEBA, the St. Eustatius Business Association was celebrated. Koos Sneek sent me the speech he prepared for this occasion. In his speech he explains about the chal-lenges for Statia, as a small island economy, to grow. He first explains the characteristics of small islands: “Small islands are often isolated, lack economies of scale, have high transportation and communication costs, are susceptible to natural disasters and have limited means and capacity to develop adequate infrastructure.” According to Koos, small islands “typically have very limited export and depend often to a great ex-tent on tourism as the main economic activity.” Facilitating the creation of business “Facilitating the creation of business is one of the most important tools in the development of an econ-omy.” To develop a healthy business climate, Koos shows the challenges Statia has to face: The infra-structure needs upgrading. Not only roads, but also services like electricity, communication and water need improvement. Koos seeks opportunities to at-tract private investors that can offer the public a better and cheaper service. “Many islands in the Caribbean have a long history of successful private sector ownership in utilities”, he says. According to Koos, NuStar Terminals, the largest private company on the island, can help improving the harbor.” Now is the time to start discussions with this company to explore possibilities for a Pub-

Nov, 26, 2009

KOOS SNEEK ON THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF STEBA


Nov, 26, 2009

A lot of quartermasters and other people that work for the Dutch government joined Mr. Henk Kamp in this Winair flight from Sint Maarten to Statia. They came to celebrate Statiaday. In the back Mr. Henk Kamp, in front of him the representative of the Netherlands. On the airport in Sint Maarten, they were discussing the early hour and were wondering why they had to be on the Fort at 6 o’clock. The next day they must have noticed the magic of daybreak during this ceremony and they must have been thinking about the good fee‐ling you get when you get up very early in the tropics. Seeing the children, they also must have felt some‐thing good.

At the ceremony on Fort Oranje around seven o’clock (Picture by Evert van Schaik)

At the track and field competition after the ceremony

STATIA DAY


Nov, 26, 2009

STATIA TALENT AT THE STATIA DAY WEEK OF ACTIVITIES

Youth Night: Golden Rock Music Ensemble under direction of Dennis Amajan.(picture by Mega D Youth Foundation)

Youth Night: The Gov. De Graaff Performing Arts Club under directi‐on of Dennis Amajan (picture by Mega D Youth Foundation)

Youth Night: A Skitt (picture by Me‐ga D Youth Foundation)

Youth Night: A Poem performed by students of the Terminal School. (picture by Mega D Youth Founda‐tion)

Youth Night: A Dance (picture by Mega D Youth Foundation)

Cultural Night: Statia’s famous Hip‐pie Band performing. (picture by Natasja V.)

Culture Night: A Group of Statia Surinams performing (picture by Natasja V.)

Culture Night: The Obey Man from St. Kitts performing (picture by Natasja V.)

Youth Night: Romario Renfrum showing his football skills (picture by Mega D Youth Foundation)


3. The US dollar has shown a downward trend for years,

what will this mean for the purchasing power of the Statia

people?

This does not change compared to the current situation.

The Naf has been linked to the dollar for years and has

dropped in value along with the US dollar. Buying prod‐

ucts in U.S. dollar regions will remain as "expensive" as it

is now. Products that are purchased in Euros have seen a

steady increase in price.

4. We now have the Windward Islands and the First Carib‐

bean Bank, will that remain so?

We assume that this will not change. We are in discussion

with these banks on the transition to the dollar. All these

banks are making plans for the conversion. This will be a

big job, which the banks recognize, and they will assume

their responsibilities.

5. Who will be the Central Bank of these banks?

This will be De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). That does not

mean that we will open an office on the BES islands. In

the Netherlands we have only the headquarters, we have

no branches or agencies.

After the transition the DNB will be responsible for the

transactions and act as the supervisor of the banks.

Monitoring of large and independent branches will be

done by the DNB itself. > Smaller firms simply remain

on the BNA report. DNB will be informed by the BNA.

As for payments, we assume that the local banks them‐

selves will provide the necessary U.S. dollars through

their own channels. Just as now but in higher numbers.

6. How will the DNB be able to decide about interest rates

when the FED already decides this for the US dollar?

The DNB cannot. But the BNA hardly decides that now

neither, due to the Naf being linked to the dollar.

Given the additional risk by the Naf (imagine that the BNA

lets go of the link to the dollar and de NAf will devalue

with respect to the dollar) the (short) interest in the cur‐

rent situation is theoretically higher. How the BES islands

will notice that in practice after the conversion is the

question. The interest rate for mortgages is also depend‐

ent on the real estate market and the risks expected

there. In addition, competition between banks can also

play a role. >

Ewout van Haeften and Willy Dassen of DNB (the Cen‐

tral Bank of the Netherlands) are helping Statia, Bonaire

and Saba with the conversion from Naf to the US dollar.

Statianews asked them some questions via email.

1. When will the conversion of NAF to USD take place?

The conversion to U.S. dollars will take place on January

1, 2011 at 00:00 hours

At that time, all accounts are converted into Naf (U.S.)

dollars

This will be done automatically by the banks. The rate will

be 1.79. That is the central rate

at which the Naf has been linked to the dollar for years.

The economic value does therefore not change, only the

banknotes and coins will look different.

1 Dollar equals 1.79 Naf. The central rate as previously

mentioned. The BNA (Netherlands Antilles Bank) guaran‐

teed the linking of the Naf to the dollar for the central

rate.

There was always a risk that the Naf would devalue in

relation to the dollar when the BNA was not able to pur‐

sue a sufficiently strong monetary policy. Because of that

risk, the interest rate on a loan in NAf’s is higher than for

a loan in U.S. dollars. Partly because of this risk of de‐

valuation versus the U.S. dollar, the BNA is now also con‐

sidering a dollarization of Curacao and St. Maarten.

The value of the dollar is managed by the FED. That is the

system of central banks in the U.S..

Their monetary policy determines the value of the dollar.

The central bank of a large country is better able to pur‐

sue a strong monetary policy.

2. Why wasn’t the Euro chosen?

The Antilles are oriented on the dollar. 80% of trade takes

place with dollar regions.

Most tourists come from U.S. dollars regions.

The euro is an expensive currency compared to the dol‐

lar. That means that everything on the BES islands would

become much more expensive, this would have negative

impact on welfare. This effect is clearly visible on the

French part of Sint Maarten.

Nov, 26, 2009

THE DOLLAR


8. Are there banks from the Netherlands who are inter‐

ested in opening a branch on Statia?

That is up to the banks. We have so far not noticed any

interest.

7. What decisions can DNB make about the banks here on

Statia?

We will jointly monitor the banks so the inhabitants'

money will be responsibly handled.

The people should not notice any thereof.

We will also seek to promote a more efficient payment

systems, for which the Dutch transactions system stand

model.

Nov, 26, 2009

Opportunities Statia Oil or related industries More stay-over and transit tourists Heritage and history useful for more tourism Medical education/medical related innovative industries Soil good for agriculture, horticulture or hus-bandry Fishery: economically interesting Second homes Image Sustainability More self sufficient Threats Economic decline Social problems Environmental and ecological situation Erosion High buildings Planning overkill

THE DOLLAR FOLLOW UP

SWOT (FROM THE NOTE OF OUTLINES AND CHOICES)

A SWOT‐analysis of St. Eustatius is conducted. The SWOT analysis is based on the outcome from interviews with the island government, administrations and stakeholders (social organisations, enterprises and key persons). This outcome in combination with information from various reports and statistic data resulted in an overview with strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for future development of St. Eustatius.

This analysis shows us that Strengths Social cohesion Quiet, peaceful and safe Noteworthy history and archeology Tourism activities: history and heritage, na-ture and diving Beautiful nature and scenery Mix of functions in Oranjestad Solid investing environment (explanation in “the Note of Outlines and Choices) as part of The Netherlands, St. Eustatius offers a solid environment for investors.Becoming a special municipality amplifies this advantage.) Weaknesses Limited medical care Quality level of education and brain drain Quality and insufficient infrastructure and ac-cessibility No sustainable waste disposal Local entrepreneurship/unemployment Small degree of economic diversification Weak hotel sector Oranje bay beach not suitable for tourist pur-poses Free roaming cattle One of the weaknesses of Statia: Free Roaming Cattle

DISCUSSION STATIA NEWS

2020. Statia’s first objective is to organize it’s waste management. Texel is investigating ways to develop green energy. Statia could do the same. Rules and Regulations A remarkable thing Mr. van Gils mentioned about Texel was the enforcement of the law. Texels’ emergency room (meldkamer) is situated on the mainland, in Alkmaar. The VIP’s on the island have the mobile phone number of the police officers and that’s how they call the police. They don’t use the emergency room in case of an emergency. Statia’s emergency room will be on Bonaire, so this might happen on Statia too. Mr. van Gils also explained about building permits. The laws for building per‐mits were not executed properly in the past. People got permits for houses on farmland or permits for extensions of their houses that were actually not conform rules and regulations. At the moment, Texel has a problem when people want to buy a house or a property that does not comply with building ordinances. Texels’ Belang is looking for solutions to protect future buyers. Similar problems might occur on Statia too. Mr. van Gils made contact with Jeroen van Hattum of the Texelse Courant and Statianews is looking forward to exchanging news, developments and ideas in our respective local newspapers.

Aad van Gils and Texels Belang In the plane from Amsterdam to Sint Maarten, I had an interesting conversation with Aad van Gils, who lives on Texel (pronounced as Tessel), the biggest Waddeneiland of the Netherlands. Texels Belang, the local political party, wants Aad van Gils is also known as “de majoor” (?????). He just retired from the Dutch Navy Service, served in the Antilles and Suriname and later on became head of the barracks and training ground of the Royal Navy on Texel. Now he wants to join the local elections with the local political party “Texels Belang”.

Texel is 20 km long and 8 km wide. The island has a lot of water; the surface of the land is 170 km2. Texel has approximately 14 thousand inhabitants. Statia is eleven square miles and has 3000 inhabi‐tants. When he told me stories about island life on Texel, they were comparable to the stories of Statia. The big difference between Texel and Statia is tourism. Texel has 30 hotels and the inhabitants do not want to expand the number of rooms avail‐able for tourists. Statia has about 5 or 6 hotels and desperately needs expansion. Texel wants to be a green and self sufficient island before the year

Nov, 26, 2009

TEXEL AND STATIA

Aad van Gils, retired Marine, local politician on Texel, in the plane to Curacao to join the presenta‐tion of the rescue boats he sold them. (Mr. van Gils happens to build boats too)

A lighthouse on Texel

ARTS STATIA NEWS

By Rashel 2C GVP school Statia: Statia is a very cultured place Buildings and beauty all over the place Many to see and many still to come Yet a lot are broken down Some are rebuilt some are not They are historical yes we have a lot Some on the beach and some down town By Miguelle Mills 2C, GVP school Statia: The beach is shining Blue and Gold It matches with my inner soul Its telling it’s own story of what happened in the past….. It paints a picture in the tourist soul Find my beach it is like pot of gold Funny Statia by Jair Jack, 2C GVP school Statia: Statia is a wonderful place The air is filled with beautiful grace The food is incredible especially the rice And the animals even don’t suffer from lice The pace is sweet like milk and honey The trees are as green as money Its quiet because the people are little Statia is colorful like a bag of Skittles

By Venesia Wever 2C, GVP school Statia : Whitewall is someplace nice to live There is a wonderful view of St. Kitts and Nevis. There is a soft blowing breeze And a of green tree The sound is so blessed that you can’t even be stressed People come to take a drive out or just to chill out in the South

Sent in by Jacintha Brice, art teacher GVP school By Rylese 2C Gwendolyn Van Putten School Statia: My hometown the place that we call The Historical Gem From country to South, from Zeelandia to White Wall From Venus to Quill Our friendly neighbors, our beautiful corals, our colorful buil‐dings My homeland, my small island, My untouched rock That is my beautiful island that we call St. Eustatius.

By Kathy Ann GVP, GVP school Statia: The sea breeze as it hits your face Listening to the roll of the waves The wonderful sound of the birds The warm sand between your toes The clear as crystal blue water The bright sun that makes you want to go home The beach a place where all would still want to live…. Our Historical Gem By Nivea Spanner 2C, GVP school Statia: It might be the most beautiful island you see The people are as friendly as can be There are churches where you can kneel on your knees And even some honeybees There are beaches where you can enjoy the breeze Yes I enjoy and it brings out the spirit in me By Andrielle Burgan 2C, GWP school Statia: The place where I live is behind the hills When the sun comes up it’s beauty gives me chills There is a time when the breeze is cool I go on the hill and feel so good When the sun shines bright it gives me so much delight When the evening comes I gaze at the stars And wonder what tomorrow will be like I wish on a star and say good night

Nov, 26, 2009

STATIA POETRY GWENDOLINE VAN PUTTENSCHOOL


port that on that same morning, the Executive Council confirmed that they are open and interested to talk to the Foundation about their role in making possible a flight school in Statia. He concluded: “We hope to talk to Elly (Deliën, founder) and Terrance (Rey, chairman) shortly so that we can build on this and make it possible ‐ and in this way continue the legacy of these three great men and other pioneers of this era.” Mr. Terrance Rey, managing director of

Air StMaarten (a company specializing in private charters throughout the Caribbean) and current president of the Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation, called the stamps “the culmination of an idea ‐ an inspiration as it were, “ that struck whilst at lunch in Statia with Elly Deliën, long time partner of the late José Dormoy, the management of the Post Office walked in (deze zin loopt niet). St. Maarten leader of government As secretary and resident historian of the Founda‐tion, I was asked by Elly Deliën to speak on her be‐half and acknowledge this honor bestowed onto José. The St. Maarten leader of government Mr. William Marlin gave me a great lead‐in when he said: “There are so many stories about how he flew ‐ the things he could do with an aircraft: endless and

By Walter Th. Hellebrand His very first flight to Statia – all the way back in 1946! – was to deliver the mail and now José ‘Pipe’ Dormoy can be seen with the mail again; or rather on the mail. He has been honored with his own stamp for his role in opening up Statia (and Saba) to the outside world. A series of three stamps has been issued by Nieuwe Post Nederlandse Antillen N.V. to acknowledge the contributions of José, ‘Freddy Johnson from Saba and N. Chester Wathey from St. Maarten to the liberation of the islands from their isolation and to the subsequent opportu‐nities for further development of the people. The series of three stamps is the result of an initiative of the Aviation Pioneers of the Caribbean Foundation which is based in Statia.

The stamps and special first day envelopes were presented to the families of the honorees and to representatives of the island governments by Mr. Franklin Sluis, General Managing Director of Nieuwe Post N.A., during a special ceremony in St. Maarten. Surprise announcement by Lt.‐Governor Gittens Statia’s Lieutenant‐Governor Mr. Hyden Gittens received a specially framed presentation of the stamps and envelope on behalf of the island terri‐tory. He congratulated the families and also made a surprise announcement regarding another project of the Aviation Pioneers Foundation. He could re‐

Nov, 26, 2009

STATIA LEGEND GETS HIS OWN STAMP

Statia’s Lieutenant‐Governor Mr. Hyden Gittens wants a flight school on Statia. (photo by Tyrone Peterson)


Senator Will Johnson from Saba and Commissioner Frans Richardson from St. Maarten also spoke to acknowledge the honorees. Mr. Richardson in his own words reiterated a point made earlier by Mr. Marlin when the latter, referring to the stamps, said: “It should not stop here. It should become part of the textbooks we still have to write in our respec‐tive countries,” which is exactly what the Founda‐tion is all about! In order to carry out the projects in this vein, which include education material for schools, the Founda‐tion depends on donations. They can be made on the account of the Aviation Pioneers of the Carib‐bean Foundation nr. 105805306 at the Windward Islands Bank. Also, checks can be mailed to the treasurer, Elizabeth M. Delien c/o Mazinga Gift Shop, Mazinga Square, St. Eustatius.

Where to get the stamps The stamps are available at the post office and at Mazinga Gift Shop, where the first day envelopes can be ordered as well. And don’t forget: if you want to know how these pioneers deserved their own stamps, you can find the complete history of the early days of aviation in the departure lounge of Statia’s airport where twelve panels with almost 150 pictures and illustra‐tions tell the whole story.

countless.” Because I was going to dish out some of them! It was indeed difficult to choose from the wealth of anecdotes – not only about his bravura or his pranks, but also those illustrating his commitment to the people of Statia and Saba who could always count on him when an emergency airlift was re‐quired. And when that happened at night, in those days it meant he had to take off and land with the help of only car headlights! He even managed to land a pregnant mother‐to‐be from Statia on a pitch dark St. Maarten airport when they could not find anyone to light up the runway there. Saving a life One of the stories is about when he received a very late notice call to fill in for a pilot who was ill. He showed up in his gardening cloths, went into the plane and sat down on one of the passenger seats. And sat. And waited – like the passengers. Until he finally stood up, saying something along the lines of “I am fed up with this waiting, I’ll just fly this thing myself!” – and sat down in the cockpit! It took all the powers of persuasion of the Sabans in the plane who recognized him to calm down the American tourists on board! I brought with me the letter that a lady wrote to him after he found her back when she had been missing for two days. The Puerto Rico coast guard could not locate her. Her desperate husband con‐tacted ‘Pipe’ who found her within two hours. I quoted from her letter: “Please accept this letter and my most sincere thanks and appreciation for all you did to rescue me and save my life.” “It should not stop here” Elly Deliën, partner of many years of Dormoy, re‐ceived a framed display of the stamps and first day envelope. Patsy Johnson received the same as the widow of Freddy Johnson, dedicated Winair agent in Saba, and Brenda Wathey was presented the display as the daughter of N. Chester Wathey of St. Maarten, one of the three founders of Winair.

Nov, 26, 2009

STATIA LEGEND GETS HIS OWN STAMP FOLLOW UP

IN NOVEMBER 1776 THE FIRST SA-LUTE WAS FIRED TO THE ANDREW DORIA. ON FEBRUARY 10TH 1787, ELEVEN YEARS LATER, BLACK HARRY, A SLAVE IMPORTED FROM AMERICA, WAS ORDERED TO BE WHIPPED IN THE PUBLIC MARKET THEN IMPRIS-ONED FOR 4 MONTHS. HE WAS TO BE DEPORTED AFTER.

THE FIRST SALUTE

PAGE 14 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR STATIA NEWS

to read. This website gives a good explanation of this theory developed by Kelso in the 1960’s. He was an political economist in the tradition of Smith, Marx and Keynes. http://www.cesj.org/binaryeconomics/be‐inanutshell.htm A forum about this economic system can be found on: http://www.cesj.org/binaryeconomics/be‐cogdiscussion.htm If you want to receive Michiel Bijkerks’ daily reports via email, please mail to: [email protected]

In the last edition of Statianews, there was an arti‐cle from Michiel Bijkerk, attorney from Bonaire, who travels through Cuba and promotes “the Third Way”. He sends emails every day, and Statianews realizes they are “letters to the editor”. If you want a day to day email from Michiel Bijkerk, send an email to [email protected] The theory he ex‐plains in his email and the opportunity Cuba has to implement this “third way” have no immediate con‐nection with local news on Statia, nonetheless, if you are interested in economics, it might be good

Nov, 26, 2009

LONELY ON STATIA

BINARY ECONOMICS

Hello Annemieke, I enjoy reading your newsletter and I would like to respond. I would like to react to the following: You ask for suggestions about how one would like Statia to be. I wonder if anything will be done with the ideas people come up with. With God’s will, I will be on Statia next July. I want to return to Statia with my family within the next two years, but I am afraid I will get very lonely because of: No cinema (you can watch dvd’s at home, but it’s nice to go out)

No market with fresh products (food in the shops is expensive) No proper roads and traffic lights No place for youth to get information about birth control and s.t.d.’s. Etc. etc. Sheryl Dosset

Statianews reply: I hope to pose some questions at the meeting December the First.

HIS CRIME…..?!? TEACHING RELIGION TO THE SLAVES ON THIS ISLAND.

EMANCIPATION CAME ON JULY FIRST (1ST) 1863. THIS WAS 87 YEARS AFTER THE FIRST SALUTE TO THE AMERICAN FLAG. This information was taken from the METH-ODIST ARCHIVES, from the book: PERSE-CUTING GOVERNOR.

COMPETITION St. Eutstatius National Parks is looking to find Statia’s top writer to join in the anniversary celebrations! Write a jingle or poem associated with the Botanical Garden. Win fantastic prizes including a boat trip around Statia and the Botanical Garden Visitro Guide.

PAGE 15 ANNOUNCEMENTS STATIA NEWS

tional journal in the field of child psychology and psychiatry. Boys 586 children and their parents filled in three ques‐tionnaires in six years time. It shows that children aged six to sixteen years with screaming or highly critical parents eventually become more aggressive and are more bound to break rules. Boys were more aggressive than girls, but in both groups that behavior becomes less apparent with age. Line Crossing behavior (breaking rules) stayed the same over the years. Yelling De Haan advises especially parents of vulnerable children not to scream. “Count to ten first and then respond in a constructive way,” says Amaranta de Haan.

Sent in by: Cherriette van der Lugt Screaming parents make a child aggressive UTRECHT ‐ Parents who yell at their child or that heavily criticize their child to make a point, run the risk that their child will lie, skip classes from school and steal.

© ANP Screaming at children that are introverted, unwill‐ing or not tidy, will make them aggressive, though the character of the child also plays a role. These results are based on tests carried out by Amaranta de Haan of the University of Utrecht. Thes results will soon be published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, a leading interna‐

Nov, 26, 2009

SCREAMING MAKES AGGRESSIVE

MAZINGA ON THE BAY WORK IN PROGRESS

In earlier issues Statianews showed you the work in pro‐gress on Mazinga on the Bay.

The masonry is almost done and one of the roofs is finis‐hed.

BOTANICAL GARDEN WRITING COMPETITION

Submit your poem or jingle to the National Parks Visitors Centre with your name and contact details. Closing date for entries: Wednesday November 25th Winners announced 4pm Friday December 4th during official opening of the Children’s Garden. For more details contact STENAPA on 318‐2884 FOODSALE TUESDAY DECEMBER 2, tickets available at Intermezzo and Stenapa.

ANNOUNCEMENT STATIA NEWS

Saturday December 5, Marlon Murray is throwing a party to celebrate the opening of the new Spanner Corner. As you can see on the picture not all paint‐work is done yet, but before December 5 the new Spanner Corner, aka M&M’s pub, will be ready. As you can see, it is decorated with the Aruban flag, that is, because the office of the Aruban Association will be next to the bar. To make this opening party a happening you won’t forget, Marlon invited SINTERKLAAS to come, and guess what? At four o’clock, SINTERKLAAS will actu‐ally come by ship to the harbour of St. Eustatius. All kids and their parents are invited to come and you never know; maybe SINTERKLAAS has a little treat for you in Spanner Corner. That is, if you have been good!

Nov, 26, 2009

Marlon and his co workers at the newly renovated bar

Spanner Corner decorated with the Aruban flag

DECEMBER 5, 2009:

4pm

Sinterklaas comes by boat at the

harbour, he will come to Spanner

Corner for a childrens’ party.

7 pm

Official opening of the bar, with

snacks and drinks and a deejay

11 pm

Party time: Statia’s own Control

Band will play

Join the Fun!

Marlon aka M&M throws a grand opening party December 5.

GRAND OPENING NEW SPANNER CORNER DEC. 5

ANNOUNCEMENTS STATIA NEWS

right away) 10 am / Guest speaker & testimony of person living with HIV/AIDS @ Lion’s Den @ 7pm

Friday, November 27th WORKSHOP, STUDENTS, TEACHERS & PARENTS Given by Mr. Dudley Ferdinandus & a person living with HIV/AIDS

Saturday, November 28th SOLIDARITY WALK Starting @ the Airport at 6.30pm and ending @ the Whil‐hemina Park where a short demonstration will be held on how to use a female condom. (Shirts & water will be distributed)

Sunday, November 29th MASS @ R. C. CHURCH Starting at 9am

Monday, November 23rd

RADIO PROGRAM HIV /AIDS Coordinator Mrs. Shanna Mercera – Gibbs & AIDS Committee member Xiomara Acevedo in the studio with Ms. Belkis Marsham @ 9 am

Tuesday, November 24th

PANEL DISCUSSION (YOU TALK) Channel 7 @ 7pm ( QBMC, Lab technician, Red Cross and Public Health dept.)

Wednesday, November 25th RAPID TESTING & RED CROSS RADIO PROGRAM Testing @ QBMC Lab ( Persons can have themselves tested for HIV/AIDS free of charge and get the results right away) 10 am / Radio program 91.5 @ 7pm Thursday, November 26th RAPID TESTING & GUEST SPEAKER Testing @ the QBMC Lab (Persons can have themselves tested for HIV/AIDS free of charge and get the results

Nov, 26, 2009

PROGRAM WEEK OF ACTIVITIES WORLD AIDS DAY 2009

DECEMBER 15: CHRISTMAS PARADE

Tuesday December 15, all people of Statia are invi‐ted to join the Christmas Parade, organized by Mar‐celle Gibbs of the Culture Department. The parade will start at 3.30 pm at the airport and will end at Charley’s Place. All schools will have their own Santa Claus and their own drumband and will perform after the Parade at Charley’s Place. All participants must wear red and white clothes and a Santa hat. To the parents: Please give your child a bucket to bring to school. Old paint buckets are good to make drums. A Note from Marcella Gibbs: This year, you will see different Christmas Trees all over the island that are decorated by the different cultural groups (Aruban Christmas Tree, Surinam Christmas Tree, Dutch Christmas Tree and son on) on Statia and also by the different neighborhoods (Princess Christmas Tree, Golden Rock Christmas Tree and so on). We are loo‐king forward for a cheerfull holiday season!

Last years’ Christmas Parade

ANNOUNCEMENT STATIA NEWS

Nov, 26, 2009

WOMEN OF STATIA PRESENTS: FREE WORKSHOP

statia news no. 18

Documents

announcements page

ocal n ews

n ovember

statia day

statia legend

annemiekekusters statia

statias developent plan

statias development