U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE: AMERICAN CRIME VICTIMS OVERSEAS

Start emailing the addresses below and keep writing those letters. Here are emails and physical addresses to the U.S. State Department.


Also, the statement below about travel to Aruba was actually on the front page of U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs, with the following information

Aruba

Americans planning travel to Aruba should read New Requirements for Travelers Between the United States and the Western Hemisphere available on the Department of State web site at http://travel.state.gov

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Aruba, an autonomous island in the Caribbean, is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Tourist facilities are widely available. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Aruba for additional information.

See our Foreign Entry Requirements brochure for more information on Aruba and other countries. Visit the Embassy of The Netherlands web site at http://www.netherlands-embassy.org for the most current visa information.

Read our information on dual nationality and the prevention of international child abduction. Link to Customs and ATA Information.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State's pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.

CRIME: Street crime is low, but there have been incidents of theft from hotel rooms. Armed robbery has been known to occur. Valuables left unattended on beaches, in cars and in hotel lobbies are easy targets for theft. (Drugged girls are also easy targets...)

INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. Posts in countries that have victims of crime assistance programs should include that information.

See our information on Victims of Crime at

http://travel.state.gov/travel

HELP FOR AMERICAN VICTIMS OF CRIME OVERSEAS

The Bureau of Consular Affairs, Overseas Citizens Services is committed to assisting American citizens who become victims of crime while traveling, working, or residing abroad. Government officials, known as consuls or consular officers, at embassies and consulates in nearly 250 cities throughout the world are responsible for assisting U.S. citizens who may be traveling, working, or residing abroad. In addition, in approximately 50 cities where a significant number of Americans reside or visit and there is no U.S. embassy or consulate, consular agents provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens. Consuls, consular agents, and local employees work with their counterparts in the Bureau of Consular Affairs Overseas Citizens Services Office in Washington, D.C. to provide emergency and non-emergency services to Americans abroad.

How to Contact Us

Consular duty personnel are available for emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at embassies, consulates, and consular agencies overseas and in Washington, D.C. To contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the U.S. call 1-888-407-4747 (during business hours) or 202-647-5225 (after hours). Contact information for U.S. embassies, consulates, and consular agencies overseas is on this Internet site.

If You Are the Victim of a Crime Overseas

Contact the nearest U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency for assistance.

Contact local police to report the incident and obtain immediate help with safety concerns. Request a copy of the police report. (This didn't happen, obviously.)

Consular Assistance to American Crime Victims

Consular personnel can provide assistance to crime victims. When a U.S. citizen becomes the victim of a crime overseas, he or she may suffer physical, emotional, or financial injuries. Additionally, the emotional impact of the crime may be intensified because the victim is in unfamiliar surroundings. The victim may not be near sources of comfort and support, fluent in the local language, or knowledgeable about local laws and customs.

Consuls, consular agents, and local employees at overseas posts are familiar with local government agencies and resources in the country where they work. They can help American crime victims with issues such as:

Addressing emergency needs that arise as a result of the crime;

Obtaining general information about the local criminal justice process and information about your case; (Nope...missed that one, too.)

Obtaining information about local resources to assist victims, including foreign crime victim compensation programs;

Individual Reactions to Crime Victimization

How individuals react to being the victim of a crime will vary from person to person. Reactions are affected by individual factors such as how the victim handles stress, the nature and duration of the crime, the physical safety of the victim, and the number and type of support systems available. Reactions to a crime may be immediate or delayed.

The physical, emotional, or cognitive (involving thinking ability) symptoms a victim may experience could include nausea, headaches, fatigue, hyperventilation, or sleeping problems. Some victims report feelings of anxiety or fear, hyper-vigilance, guilt, anger, or isolation. Some experience difficulty making decisions, short-term memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or recurring memories of the crime.

It is important to realize that these are normal feelings, behaviors and reactions to an abnormal event. One of the first things to pay attention to is your need to feel safer. Addressing safety concerns and receiving emotional support can help. For most victims the reactions described above diminish with time. If these reactions persist and are disrupting your life or getting worse after three or four weeks, you should consider seeking professional assistance.

Resources and Information for Crime Victims:

Victim Assistance : If you are the victim of a crime while overseas you may benefit from specialized resources for crime victims available in the U.S.

Throughout the United States thousands of local crime victim assistance programs offer help to victims of violent crime and most will help residents of their community who have been the victim of a crime in another country.

These include rape crisis counseling programs, shelter and counseling programs for battered women, support groups and bereavement counseling for family members of homicide victims, diagnostic and treatment programs for child abuse victims, assistance for victims of drunk driving crashes, and others. Information about locating crime victim assistance programs is below.

Victim Compensation : All states operate crime victim compensation programs and nearly half of them offer benefits to their residents who are victims of violent crime overseas. (See contact information for state compensation programs below.) These state compensation programs provide financial assistance to eligible victims for reimbursement of expenses such as medical treatment, counseling, funeral costs, lost income or loss of support, and others. Generally victim compensation programs require the victim to report the crime to law enforcement and they usually request a copy of the police report.

Contact Information for Victim Compensation and Assistance Programs:

Information about each state’s crime victim compensation program and how to apply for compensation is available on the Internet at the web site of the National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards, http://www.nacvcb.org

The toll-free 24 hours a day /7 days a week hotline for sexual assault crisis counseling and referrals in the United States is 1-800-656-HOPE. It is operated by a non-profit organization, RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), which also has information on the Internet at http://www.rainn.org

Information about local sexual assault victim assistance programs in the U.S. is also available from each state’s sexual assault coalition. Contact information for these state coalitions are listed at the website of the U.S. Department of Justice Violence Against Women Office, http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/vawo/help.htm

The toll-free 24 hours a day /7 days a week National Domestic Violence Hotline, which provides crisis counseling and referrals in the U.S., is 1-800-799-SAFE.

Information about local domestic violence victim assistance programs in the U.S. is also available from each state’s domestic violence coalition. Contact information for these state coalitions is listed at the website of the U.S. Department of Justice Violence Against Women Office, http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/vawo/help.htm

The toll-free 24 hours a day /7 days a week crisis counseling and referral line for families and friends of those who have died by violence is 1-888-818-POMC. It is operated by a non-profit organization, POMC, Inc., (The National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children) which also has information on the Internet at http://www.pomc.org

Information for crime victims on the impact of crime, safety planning, legal rights and civil legal remedies, and options for assistance and referrals to local programs is also available from the National Crime Victim Center. Call toll free (8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST) 1-800-FYI-CALL or call TTY for hearing impaired (8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST) 1-800-211-7996. Information is also available on the Internet at http://www.ncvc.org

Information and referral to victim assistance programs is available from the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA). Call toll-free 24 hours a day /7 days a week 1-800-TRY-NOVA. Information is also available on the Internet at http://www.try-nova.org

Information about victim assistance programs in approximately 20 countries is available at the web site of Victim Assistance On-line, http://www.vaonline.org

---

LETTER FROM NATALEE? DO YOU THINK WE'RE STUPID?

Steve Cohen mentioned possible re-interviewing of the three suspects. He went over that the 12,000 pages of testimony have been reviewed. He revealed a new prosecutor is coming from Curacao (old news actually) to oversee the case to check for new leads.

The hot item reported by Steve Cohen was a letter received by Paulus van der Sloot claiming to be from Natalee Holloway. She explains in the letter why she ran away from her mother and is living in the USA. She tells the Dutch authorities to test the letter for her DNA to verify that it is her. Steve Cohen reported that Police Chief Dompig received the letter from Paulus today and immediately sent it to the Dutch Forensic Institute (DFI) for DNA testing and authentication.

(This has got to be the biggest bullshit smoke screen I have ever seen. Hint: see my post below. We aren't dealing with rational, ethical or moral people.)

Beth Twitty tried to evade responding, stressing that the police should focus on the blood in Joran's sneaker. She claimed that she was not hopeful of the letter.

Here's Steve Cohen, a Philadelphia native, with Aruban attorney, and Paulus Van Der Sloot in the background. Cohen has been a "good friend to Aruba since 1979".

MORE ARUBAN SLANDER

I had a chance to speak with Rich Strom, a retired Philadelphia homicide detective, and current private investigator who is working on the Holloway case. He has been in Aruba for the last couple weeks and has just returned. He mentioned all the blatant lies, aruban manipulation (propaganda) and the horrific and hateful attitude towards Americans, specifically Natalee and Beth.

Rich told me that when he initially flew into Aruba and walked into the airport, the security guards were walking up to tourists, himself included, saying, "Breaking News! Did you hear they found that little bitch Natalee Holloway in Alabama?" Rich knew this was an obvious and blatant lie and had to hold himself back from these morons. The security guards began laughing hysterically, "We should extradite her and throw that bitch (Natalee) in jail for causing us so many problems!"

These are the kind of evil people we are dealing with, here. We may have to stoop to their level, which is exactly what I plan on doing.

Justice for Natalee and all the women who've been victimized in Aruba! Don't forget the old saying, "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned"...Beth is not giving up, and neither are the tens of thousands of the rest of us.

POSSIBLE SUPPORT FROM AN UNLIKELY SOURCE!

Will the NAACP give the Aruba Boycott Endorsement? It's a strong possibility.

Click here for more information, including more to follow.

VANITY FAIR DOESN'T CARE...

I've had an overwhelming amount of emails regarding the blasphemous article written by Bryan Burrough on Natalee Holloway with his interview of Chief Dompig from Aruba. Let's tell Vanity Fair what we think of their pathetic journalism.

Ever heard of fact-checking, Bryan?


Read disgusting article here



If you'd like to share your complaints or comments send your reply here:


Vanity Fair
letters@vf.com
fax 212-286-4324

OTHER CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES WHINE

Barbados Advocate
December 8, 2005

ANY of the countries in the Caribbean region can be faced, as Aruba was recently, with the issue of visitor safety and security, as such, this will be the theme of the upcoming Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP) conference to be held in that Dutch territory next year.

Giving an outline of the draft agenda for the conference, Jeanette Richardson- Baar, Chief of Staff, to the Commissioner of Police of Aruba said that the conference will be a perfect opportunity to showcase to everyone abroad that Aruba still is a very safe and secure island to visit.

Her comments came as she spoke to those gathered for the final day of the ACCP Inter-sessional meeting at the Amaryllis Beach Resort yesterday. The image of Aruba in terms of visitor safety was very badly damaged by the Natalee Holloway case, which is a case that never happened in Aruba before. We do not have a lot of murders, we have four or five murders a year  most of them connected to drugs or criminals shooting each other ... for us it was very unusual, and we have been working very hard on it and we have been trying to do whatever we can to boost up the image of Aruba again, she said. With that in mind, Richardson-Baar noted that at any time, a similar situation could occur in another country in the region and so it is imperative that all the countries are well prepared.

One important issue that needs to be addressed, she stated, is how the authorities relate to the media, especially inter- national media entities. We have to train people more how to deal with the media. We have our information officers who are used to dealing with the local press and that is on a one-on-one basis. They all know each other, they dont make trouble and they know what to expect of each other. But we were confronted with CNN and FOX and people who have different ethics in terms of gathering information, she lamented.

As such, she explained that one of the items on the agenda for the conference will be Strategies for Effective Media Manage-ment, in which law enforcement officers will be trained so that if something like that was to happen in another country, that they would be able to deal with it effectively and efficiently. In addition to crime reporting and the media, the conference, she added, will look at three other main themes  regional crime and security, community-policing philosophy in action and major events management.

INTERESTED IN JOINING THE BOYCOTT?

CLICK HERE IF YOU ARE INTERESTED

FINALLY! BETH HOLLOWAY-TWITTY SPEAKS OUT

I spoke with Beth last night. I haven't had the time to prepare my posting, but keep checking back. It was very interesting to say the least.

In addition, I will be posting inside information regarding the two black security guards that were originally detained (and are STILL considered 'suspects' according the ALE), how the NAACP is planning on getting involved in the injustice and blatant racism within Aruba; and shocking information regarding the America man who was recently murdered in Aruba.

CONSPIRACY, LIES, AND COVER UP

American Robert Wayne Benson, 58
Benson was employed by a company that fixes cars and motorcycles in Aruba
and was found dead in a locked container.

Security Guard, Mickey John

Security Guard, Abraham Jones

HALEY BARBOUR--MISSISSIPPI GOVERNOR

Please don't bother me with this Natalee Holloway mess...I'm too busy.

Mississippi Governor Barbour's Background

Haley Reeves Barbour is the current governor of Mississippi, and a Republican. He gained a national spotlight in August 2005 after Mississippi was hit by Hurricane Katrina. Since then he has been under strong speculation as a possible 2008 presidential candidate, although he was rumored to be considering running even before then.

This was confirmed when it was discovered long time friend Ed Rogers owned the "Barbour for President" Web site.

Governor Barbour's Reaction to Dave Holloway's Plea

"I called the governor while he was out of town because I would like to just get his position on it," Holloway told The Meridian Star. "But I haven't heard back from him." Holloway said residents of Mississippi can boycott Aruba without the governor's urging, but he would like to see Barbour support the effort.

Pete Smith, a spokesman for Barbour, said Tuesday the governor has not had time to consider the boycott. "He's just gotten back from Iraq and he is focusing on federal aid for Hurricane Katrina victims and he has not had a chance to think about it. But he will take a look at it," Smith said.

Let's see if he keeps his word...since he plans on running for president, and all....

Write your letters to Governor Barbour!

Governor Haley Barbour
P.O. Box 139
Jackson, MS 39205


Physical Address:
501 N. West Street
Governor's Office 15th Floor
Jackson, MS 39201
Phone: 601.359.3150
Fax: 601.359.3741

ALABAMA FIRST LADY PATSY RILEY SPEAKS OUT

Alabama's first lady backs Holloway family, condemns Aruba

By SAMIRA JAFARI
Associated Press

Alabama First Lady Patsy Riley promised the family of missing teenager Natalee Holloway that the state will always support the search for her, and accused the Aruban government of turning its back on the family. "To know that another country turned its back," Riley said, her voice breaking with emotion during a candlelit prayer meeting Thursday night for missing children. "The people of Alabama will never turn their back."

Holloway's mother, Beth Twitty, and her stepfather, Jug Twitty, attended the prayer meeting at the Gov.'s Mansion along with two dozen friends from the 18-year-old's hometown of Mountain Brook. At least four other families of missing children also attended the meeting.

"It touches me that they have so much strength to stand up for our family," Jug Twitty said, referring to Gov. Bob Riley and his wife. Two glass bowls were set out for what Riley called a "love offering" to help the Holloways in their search. She said the money would not be counted at the meeting and the family could "do with that what they choose."

Some 40 Alabama children are missing, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Tara Frazier, whose 15-year-old niece Sharnecia went missing a year ago, said that while the prayer meeting was largely focused on Holloway, she still felt consoled. "It was a comfort," she said after the meeting. "Not so much sad, but comforting."

Patsy Riley, speaking from the steps of the mansion, asked the victims' families to stand together and draw from one another's strength. They held hands in prayer, later lighting white candles in memory of their missing children. "This is about all missing children," the first lady told them.

"The difference with Natalee is that a different country is involved. ...Therefore, there's a different crisis."

Holloway's family initially praised Aruban authorities for their work on the case, but they turned critical, alleging incompetence and conflicts of interest, and joined the governor in calling for a nationwide boycott of travel to Aruba. Riley has sent letters to the 49 other American governors, urging them to join him in the boycott. So far, Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee has been the only governor to join.

Meanwhile, Assistant Aruban Police Chief Gerold G. Dompig has said in interviews that Beth Twitty has hurt the investigation by releasing sensitive information during her frequent appearances on U.S. television shows. And he said Holloway's classmates need to be questioned more because of "disturbing" statements they've made on TV and the Internet.

The first lady said she decided to hold the prayer meeting this year because the holidays can be the toughest time for families who have lost a child. Patsy Riley told the families that blowing out their candles "does not mean the end of this prayer meeting. "We will never stop searching for your loved ones."

CONDESCENDING GESTURE OF ARUBA'S "SYMPATHY"

Candles can't bring Natalee back...
but if the U.S. puts a candle under ALE's ass, then maybe.


Official Statement From the Aruban Government:
Aruba Supporting the Candlelight Vigil for Natalee Holloway

ORANJESTAD, Aruba, Dec. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The people of Aruba and their government warmly and wholeheartedly support (Support? I don't believe we need your phony half-hearted support. I have a hunch this PR move of yours is the doing of the Aruba's new partner in crime, Steve Cohen.)

The candlelight vigil being held this evening in the United States for Natalee Holloway. Almost from the moment Ms. Holloway disappeared, the nation of Aruba has been focused on finding her. (Focused on finding Natalee? If a liar lies long enough, they start to believe their own lies. Besides, the key word here is "Almost from the moment". Almost meaning 6+ months? Plus NO PROOF that anything is being done at this time.)

The people of Aruba join those at the vigil in spirit this evening with Ms. Holloway in our hearts, in our thoughts, and in our prayers.

Aruba Tourism Authority

Oh, so sweet of you Aruba...do you want a cookie?

PROBLEMS IN "PARADISE"?

ARUBA – Justice-minister Rudy Croes (MEP) gave the public prosecutor (OM) till December 17th the time to solve the internal problems. The conflict between chief district attorneyKarin Janssen and Attorney General Theresa Croes-Fernandes Perna has been going on for six months already. The minister is now threatening with taking measures against the chief district attorney, because the Attorney General (PG) is her superior.

One of the reasons for the conflict is the way the media was informed in the Holloway-case. Janssen, who is a media-officer in the Netherlands, is of the opinion that it was not professionally done. The conflict escalated when Janssen was interviewed by the Nova. The OM then sent Janssen’s cellular telephone number to all the local and international media that was present. “Now that she has spoken to one journalist, she might as well speak to all of them”, said OM-media information official Mariaine Croes, daughter of the Attorney General. At that moment, Janssen was up to her ears in the investigation on the disappeared Natalee Holloway and got in trouble because of this. It was decided shortly after that the OM would only give written information on this case. Another reason for the conflict is that Janssen is of the opinion that the Attorney General is too much involved with current investigations instead of working on policy level. She resents at the PG interfering with the case of two suspicious MEP-supporters that made anonymous threats by phone from the Government office. The PG dismissed this case without consulting Janssen. Former chief of police, Jan van der Straten also clashed with minister Croes about this.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE BETH?

• I would continue to try to focus the world spotlight on Aruba and its attempting to cover up the disappearance of my daughter. (Actually, it's so obvious at this point that it can't be called a cover-up anymore.)

• I certainly would not go anywhere on Aruba by myself.

• I would carry my campaign to the Netherlands, asking that moves be taken to investigate the Dutch administration of this and other Caribbean islands, such as Curacao (where Amy Bradley disappeared in 1998; again, no official action taken).

• I would take what moves I could to see if the United States will relocate to another island its DEA anti-drug assets. The suspicion is that some highly-placed Aruban officials benefit from inside knowledge as to our anti-drug efforts ... and who could be more valuable to the drug barons than a prospective judge such as Paulus van der Sloot?

• I would never give up in my efforts to seek justice for my daughter.

• And I would ask why, although the ordinary people of America have demonstrated their support for my efforts, our own government seems indifferent.
  

--Richard R., Vermont, USA

DAVE HOLLOWAY--ON BOARD WITH THE BOYCOTT!

MERIDIAN, Miss. - The father of missing Alabama teen Natalee Holloway would like Mississippi to join a travel boycott of Aruba to protest the way officials there have handled the disappearance of his daughter.

Dave Holloway, a Meridian insurance agent, said he has called the governor's office to urge Gov. Haley Barbour to join Alabama Gov. Bob Riley and Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee in the travel boycott of the Dutch Caribbean island. "I called the governor while he was out of town because I would like to just get his position on it," Holloway told The Meridian Star. "But I haven't heard back from him."

Holloway said residents of Mississippi can boycott Aruba without the governor's urging, but he would like to see Barbour support the effort. Pete Smith, a spokesman for Barbour, said Tuesday the governor has not had time to consider the boycott. "He's just gotten back from Iraq and he is focusing on federal aid for Hurricane Katrina victims and he has not had a chance to think about it. But he will take a look at it," Smith said.

Riley has said he is concerned because the Aruban investigation has produced no results in the case of Holloway, who was 18 when she disappeared during a high school graduation trip to the island May 30. Riley said and he is not convinced everything possible is being done.

Last month, he asked other governors to urge their citizens not to vacation in Aruba. Huckabee joined the boycott last month, but he is the only other governor so far to do so. Huckabee said Beth Holloway Twitty, Holloway's mother, is originally from Arkansas and that many of the missing teen's other relatives still live in the state. Natalee Holloway is a Clinton, Miss., native. A graduate of Mountain Brook High School in suburban Birmingham, Ala., she was last seen leaving a bar with three young men from Aruba. Each of the three was taken into custody but has since been released.

MORE CORRUPTION WITHIN OUR OWN BORDERS? TIES TO ARUBA

Henry Hyde, Illinois U.S. Representative

Republican Henry Hyde, Chairman of Committee on International Relations in the US House of Representatives, commented yesterday to local media that he believed the boycott call by the Governor of Alabama is not receiving true support in the U.S.

According to who? I guess his 'people' aren't getting all the right information from their constituents.

He considers the boycott an individual action and not one that would be sustained nationwide. "We want to resolve this case as fast as possible. We do not believe that the boycott would help the case," Hyde said.

I believe the relationship between the Aruban and the U.S. congresses is good. I think the people who understand the complicity of the two justice systems are less worried and will not support the boycott, he added. "Aruba is a very important strategic area. It is a friendly island and we have to maintain a strong relationship with it," he said. Hyde and a delegation of 5 other congressmen had been on the island for one night, staying at the Renaissance Resort.

John Pauly's helping hand in Aruba

There's another local connection to the case of Alabama teenNatalee Holloway, who has been missing in Aruba since May. Veteran TV news producer John Pauly, of the Main Line, who worked as Channel 10's investigative reporter in the 1980s, has been working as an adviser to the Aruban Strategic Communications Task Force. Currently stateside, Pauly's spent seven weeks in Aruba, and may go back next month to further serve as a media liason with the Task Force, made up of government and tourism agencies. Pauly says print media and major TV networks have been mostly responsible, but that some outlets are airing unsubstantiated reports with reckless abandon. The biggest culprits, he says, are CNN/Court TV's Nancy Grace, and Fox News' Sean Hannity, Alan Colmes and Bill O'Reilly.

John Pauly Speaks Out--Aruba Truth??

A newsman who covered the case but wished to remain anonymous praised Pauly, who set up regular noon briefings to allow Aruban authorities to correct errors and rumors. "He was always ready to help, doing his best to get information from a government almost always mute or sparing of words, and often anticipating the reporters' requests," the source replied in an e-mail. "A newsman himself, he understands the press. One can only hope he helped the Aruban government understand it better."

Pauly felt the cable news offenders never gave the Aruban government and other officials credit for giving employees days off (wowie zowie! Wasn't that just so generous!) to search for Natalee, using three F-16 fighter jets with special radar to search for her and conducting an Arms Across Aruba prayer vigil for her. "That got about maybe 20 seconds and then they went right back to the nonsense," said Pauly.

Pauly feels his "greatest triumph" was persuading Aruban authorities to hold a press briefing when the suspects were released and made available for interviews. "The Aruban police thought the American media were morons because of all the misinformation they were putting on the air," said Pauly. "So they weren't about to cooperate with them."

He persuaded the police to cooperate with the media or risk the probability that the media would stake out the prison and suspect's homes and there would be threats to public safety. "This was the first time in the history of this investigation that the police actually cooperated with the media," said Pauly. "So the media got their access to ask questions."

Unfortunately, the question of what happened to Holloway may never be solved. "Look at it from a logical point of view," said Pauly. "There's no body, so there's no murder. There's no crime. There's no rape because there's no complainant. There's no forensic evidence, no credible witnesses. So what are you going to do with these guys?"

Steve Cohen, "friend of Aruba" since 1979

ORANJESTAD: A press conference given by the Strategic Communications Task Force (SCT) took place on Friday, where the CEO of AHATA and members of the SCT that they held a meeting and they came to the decision to name a special person to be spokesperson for SCT, for everything that has to do with the case of Natalee Holloway.


ATIA’s president, Serge Mansur, said that the decision was to name Steve Cohen for this post. Steve Cohen has worked as a reporter and presenter in the US, where he was a ‘Senior News Executive’ in Los Angeles and New York.

According to Mr. Mansur, Cohen is one of the creators and producer of the famous Court TV in the US, where he had experience in more than 150 big cases in the courts of the US. Steve Cohen was also vice president of CBS during 12 years.

This person was on the case from the beginning and has been coming to Aruba since 1979.

Steve Cohen took the podium, where he thanked those who gave him the position of spokesperson. According to Cohen, 6 months ago, Aruba was a country that was considered as safe, where tourists were safe in their beloved vacations.

Now, 6 months later Aruba is still the same, but the image that the US has given Aruba has changed, because of a worried family and others who think that Aruba did not act fast enough, speak and think badly of Aruba. The objective in the months to come is to change this back. We do not have the amount of criminality that America has and we have one of the best police corps in the area of the Caribbean.

We? What's with WE? You are an american citizen I believe, Steve.

This, according to Cohen, who said that this is the message that has to be heard for Americans, but Beth Twitty is still saying that the judicial system of Aruba is not working and that it is corrupt.

The fact that a person or family is sad, does not take away that they always have to speak the truth about what has happened.

The press asked Cohen how he thinks he will do this. According to Cohen, he will try to go on talk shows to try to relay his message to Americans. He said that attorney Arlene Ellis Schipper has done a tremendous job, but cannot confront alone all those that they have put against her in the American programs.

Frank Rizzo, Jr.

In a day of ceremonial resolutions and unanimous votes yesterday in City Council, there was one moment of genuine debate. At hand: A resolution cosponsored by Councilmen Juan F. Ramos and Jack Kelly urging Philadelphians to boycott Aruba because of alleged Aruban foot-dragging over the case of missing American teenager Natalee Holloway.

"Evidently, Aruba doesn't work [as] well as the United States does," Kelly said. He said Holloway's mother had to have others order her food when visiting the Dutch territory because of fear that devious locals might try to poison her for her agitation over her daughter's case.

Rising to Aruba's defense was Councilman Frank Rizzo. "The people of Aruba are good people," he said, adding that a boycott could "also be very hurtful to Philadelphia," because U.S. Airways, the ailing carrier that dominates the city's airport, flies 9,000 people there monthly. Kelly wasn't very impressed with Rizzo's economic argument. "U.S. Airways serves many, many islands," he said.

What Rizzo didn't mention then is that he has often been one of those people. He said he had been vacationing on the island for years and planned to buy property and possibly retire there. "I know the people, I know the politicians, I know the police chief," he said later. "They've cooperated."

T'WAS'THE NIGHT BEFORE... ARUBA STYLE

Saw this on a forum,
and I just had to share,
It was a perfect description,
'Cuz this case 'aint so rare

The writing was witty,
Her depiction so clear,
Alas Natalee is still missing,
Every parents worst fear

T’was the last night of fun,
Which those teens would recall,
The setting of the sun,
A new life in the fall.

New people she met
Her world seemed all right.
Just one last ‘hurrah’
At the end of the night.

“We’ll go see the lighthouse,
We’ll walk on the beach”
They drove out of sight,
She’s no longer in reach…

A parent’s worst nightmare,
A trip into hell,
The Dutchmen are thinking,
A story to tell.

From the Vandersloot house
There arose such a clatter
Paul couldn’t stop sweating
He knew[i][/i] what was the matter!

When what to his wondering eyes did appear
A van full of rebels,
“Oh $h*t, they’re here!!”

The stories are told,
At least a few dozen.
Seems everyone here
Is somebody’s cousin.

Dennis Jacobs asked Dave,
“How much money you got?”
if you rich we will search,
but we won’t, ‘cause you not!”

Karin Jannsen is dim,
Gives blondes a bad name
Won’t talk to Beth,
Gives Aruba much shame.

“We do not search houses,
That’s the cowboy way,
But if you are a black man,
Well, then it’s OK.”

Reuben Trapenburg says,
“Aruba is free,
For family who comes
To search for Natalee”

From the top of the landfill
To the bottom of the sea
“Pretend that we’re searching,
Then charge them a fee.”

Joran sits alone,
in a jail for the summer
He cries to the judge
"why my life such a bummer?"

“So sorry” says Judge,
“for all of your strife.”
“Now fly off to Holland,
get on with your life!”

The three boys are sent walking
“We’ll set up a trap
Those boys, they’ll start talking,”
(Wow, you’re full of crap!)

Mama says, “we all lie,
There’s no point in this drama
When they bad I just say
‘why you lie to your mama?’”

Joran speaks on camera,
He has nothing to fear.
He talks all he wants,
His Daddy is near!

Deepak – enough with the BS already
She did or she didn’t …
you wouldn’t believe
How easy it is to BS and deceive

Satish is so quiet
he says ne’er a word.
Can his lawyer speak English?
Will his version be heard?

Chief Dompig declares,
“they’re all guilty as hell”,
But the ALE office
still has a smell.

Arlene has a fit
for the boycott we’re seeking.
You can’t produce Natalee,
So stop your shrieking!!

“It’s an ongoing case,
we work ‘round the clock.”
Yeah, OK Arlene,
Stuff that shriek with a sock!

Chief Dompig announces
who is to blame
Through ‘Vanity Fair’,
he calls them by name,

It’s Beth and it’s Greta,and it’s Robin and Dave,
Remember,we have our tourism to save.

It’s Phil, and Jamie, and that Nancy Grace,
You know how we hate having her in our face!

Joe Mamanna’s a gangster, And don’t forget Jug.
Put all the evidence under that rug!

While America considers the possible dread,
Visions of Extasy fill Joran’s head
He flashes a smile to hide inner wrath,
Of course he does….he’s a sociopath!

He hears Daddy’s words, time after time,
“Remember my boy, no body NO CRIME!”

--Queen of Denmark
Blogs for Natalee Forum

SHERMAN'S TRAVEL--TOP 10 BEACHES

Best Beaches for Winter Getaway--Aruba not included!

Don't be suprised if you start seeing cheap trips to Aruba--The new "Blue Light Special" destination

Anse Source d’Argent

The archipelago of Seychelles, composed of more than 100 palm tree-studded islands in the midst of the Indian Ocean, is a mostly undiscovered destination for American travelers, largely due to its distant location, some 1000 miles off the eastern coast of Africa. Dedicated beachcombers who make the trek will, however, be rewarded with some of the most paradisical shores in the world, where beautiful secluded beaches and idyllic lagoons meet with unspoiled natural landscapes echoing with exotic bird songs. The tiny island of La Digue’s picture-perfect Anse Source d’Argent (French for "silver spring cove") is one of the islands’ most popular beaches, featuring fine pink sands; towering, weathered granite boulders; and giant, arching palm trees. Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving are ever-popular in these calm, reef-protected waters. A sprinkling of nearby luxurious resorts and spas also beckon, catering to the beach-lovers who make this ultimate beach pilgrimage in high-season – May through September.

Grace Bay

Revered as one of the last frontiers of the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos is an oasis for those seeking to do little more than lounge on the beach, as there are few diversions other than surf, sun, and sand. And when the sand in question is as superb as gorgeous Grace Bay (pictured), it’s no wonder the focus is on the beach. Edging 12 miles along the northern coast of Providenciales (the chain’s main island), the fine white sand here is easily one of the finest swaths of beach we’ve ever seen in the Caribbean. What’s more, the Atlantic waters it faces are calmed and protected by the world’s third-longest natural barrier reef, which gives the ocean a marvelous turquoise sheen. The fact that the beach also rarely gets crowded, even in high-season, only adds to its appeal. Indeed, with this trifecta going for it, Grace Bay is the ultimate R&R destination – the most strenuous thing you’ll do here is try and spot JoJo, the island’s resident dolphin, who likes to frolic in the distance.

Ipanema

“Tall and tan and young and lovely.” So goes “The Girl from Ipanema”, the famous ode to the bathing beauties (or garotas) who lounge and strut on this stunning stretch of sand in Rio de Janeiro. Even four decades after the song’s debut, trendsetting bikinis still set the standard here (who can forget the oh-so memorable dental-floss version?) and the eye-candy remains second to none. The two-mile stretch of golden sand is no slouch either, as it’s edged by a groovy ‘60s mosaic boardwalk and anchored by twin mountain peaks at its western end. On the sand itself, a mix of Capoeria dancers, volleyball games, soccer, and scantily clad Cariocas command attention. The surrounding neighborhood also brims with hip restaurants, clubs, and shops; beach bums can take aprés-sun strolls along Rua Vinícius de Mora, a popular avenue offering a stylish spread of bars and eateries, including the most famous of all, the Garota de Ipanema Bar, where the namesake song was penned.

Lanikai Beach

That Lanikai is considered the best swimming beach even by local Hawaiians should come as no surprise – after all, its name does mean “heavenly sea.” An offshore coral reef protects the deep turquoise lagoon, making the surf relatively mild and ideal for splashing around as well as kayaking, sailing, canoeing, and windsurfing. The mile-long beach itself, on Oahu’s windward side, is also quite scenic and has served as a backdrop in countless fashion shoots; imagine a wide swath dotted by tall swaying palms that cast shadows on the soft, sugary sand. Plus, you’ll find the twin bird sanctuaries of Mokulua and Mokumanu in the distance – and accessible by kayak – and prime sunrise views.

Manly

While winter is just getting its frosty grip around much of the US, summer fun is only beginning Down Under. Lovers of both beautiful beach scenes and sophisticated city culture needn’t look further than the bustling metropolis of Sydney, where the best of both worlds combine. Enjoy all of the cultural goodies that Sydney has to offer and one of the world’s most alluring beaches, Manly, just seven miles north of Sydney Harbour. A scenic half-hour ferry ride connects Sydney’s Circular Quay with Manly’s main oceanfront, where rolling surf meets glorious golden sand beaches and a verdant trim of pine trees. The lively café- and shop-lined strip of the Corso links the harbor side of Manly to its fabulous beach – where surfing competitions, beach volleyball, festivals, and much more unfold every summer.

Paradise Beach

If paradise means rambling white sands met by the deep-blue Aegean, beach bars bumping with Euro tunes, bikini-clad bodies dancing on tables, topless girls sprawled on the sand, and an overall hedonistic scene, Paradise Beach on the Greek isle of Mykonos is it. Come summer, hordes of young travelers come ashore to revel in the sultry thrills and clandestine coves only this beach can offer. Dotted with thatched umbrellas and lined with bars, shops, and discos, visitors to these raucous sands enjoy the Mediterranean seascape, soak up some rays, and, come 3pm each afternoon, join in the full-blown fiesta right there on the sand. The music slowly starts to escalate and doesn’t typically die down before dawn – just in time for sunrise and a nap on the sand.

Plage Malendure

Our favorite black sands are found on the dazzling shores of Plage Malendure, at the base of steep jungle-covered mountains and the towering, still-active La Soufriére volcano on Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe. The result of a 1976 volcanic eruption, which saw molten lava leave pearly black ash in its wake that now sparkles under the sun, this glittering sandy cove is the main point of access to the large Jacques Cousteau Underwater Park, considered one of the Caribbean’s best diving sites. Snorkeling and diving exhibitions here visit an underwater world filled with abundant aquatic life and vivid coral and fauna. On land, a hike from the beach finds the Parc National Gaudeloupe that encircles the rumbling La Soufriére (also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), where an array of natural splendors, from lush rainforest, tall ferns, orchids, and pineapples is found.

Plage de Tahiti

Sun-kissed St. Tropez, once a sleepy fishing village, has long been the most irresistible of French Riviera resort towns, attracting sunbathing beauties from Brigitte Bardot to Beyoncé. This Mediterranean mecca of summer beach lounging and late-night partying sees chic scenesters arrive in droves between June and September to stake claim to their own little sandy piece of the action. Plage de Tahiti, one of the northern beaches along the Baie de Pampelonne, is one of the best spots to bask on golden Mediterranean shores and soak up the carnival atmosphere created by flamboyant and fashionable beachcombers. Note that the prudish needn’t apply, as this haunt is notorious for itsy-bitty and teeny-weeny bathing gear. Aside from the sun-soaking and people-watching, the beach is also conveniently lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, to boot.

Trunk Bay

St. John may be the smallest of the three US Virgin Islands, but it is home to Trunk Bay – an extraordinary beach that’s sure to leave the biggest impression of any on the three US islands. One of the most photographed – and photogenic – beaches in the world, Trunk Bay is the crowning glory of sleepy St. John’s dozen-odd beaches, its attractive powdery sand offset by a verdant inland replete with seagrape and palm trees and a turquoise shoreline drenched in the tropical sun. Scenic sands aside, the waters here are also popular with beginning snorkelers, who delight in following the fun, self-guided underwater trail complete with signage identifying native aquatic life and corals; snorkeling equipment can be rented right on the beach. This only downside to this crowd-pleaser is that it can indeed get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port – on those days, you’re best to come before noon or after 4pm.

Tulum

The increasingly popular Mayan Riviera destination of Tulum, a couple of hours south of Cancun, couldn’t be more unlike its northern resort sibling. With a beach presided over by Mexico’s only waterfront Mayan ruins, the unspoiled white sands that hug the Caribbean here offer visitors the chance to get in touch with their inner chi – not the excuse to party. Indeed, what few beachfront resorts exist here tend to host yoga centers, not all-inclusive nightclubs, along the sand. Meanwhile, on the beach below Tulum’s cliff-top castle, you can bask and swim where the Maya once came ashore, in superb waters protected by the world’s second-longest barrier reef, the Great Maya Reef, which provides countless underwater pleasures among shallow coral reefs, coast-hugging sand banks, and offshore atolls.

MORE MAILBAG

I understand that your organization has written to Condoleezza Rice, U.S. Secretary of State, questioning the wisdom and motives for the voluntary boycott against Aruba.

I can well understand that the Aruba Tourism Authority is so discredited by the cover-up in the Natalee Holloway case that it realizes it is regarded with contempt and disgust. Accordingly, it has asked your organization to speak out.

Before you attach yourself too publicly to the Aruban cause, though, let's make one thing clear: the U.S. government is not the motivating force behind the boycott. Nor is the U.S. government in a position to call it off. The boycott is the doing of the American people, who know a lie when they see it. And we see it in Aruba now.

The victims in the Natalee Holloway case are not the Aruban people, but rather the Holloway Twitty family, and most specifically Natalee Holloway herself. The boycott is the result of the Aruban government's decision to protect its own, and while the cover-up continues the boycott will only gain in strength.

Aruba has shut off the lines of communication with the Holloway Twitty family, barred the FBI's assistance, and whines about its tourism (even as it says the boycott is having no effect). Aruba can choose to take the high road or the low road in this matter, and if it continues to dither, delay and deny, seemingly to protect a handful of culprits, any effects from a boycott will be its own responsibility.

I can understand the concern of other Caribbean nations. On the idea of "where there's smoke, there's fire," tourists may well decide to avoid the region. Indeed, the unsolved disappearance of Amy Bradley from a cruise ship docking in Curacao in 1998 should make anyone considering a Caribbean visit think twice.

My advice to your organization, if I may give it, is to take the moral stance and make every effort to urge Aruba to stop protecting its own. For the sake of your public relations, not to mention basic decency, you should be publicly the harshest critic of Aruba's evasions. By urging sympathy for a regime that has essentially denied the rights of an American family to seek justice, you risk being put in the same category.

And being associated with Aruba is something that nobody should want.

Richard Rogers, Vermont, USA

AWESOME RETORT TO CARRIBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION

To Whom it May Concern,

This e-mail is in reference to the letter you sent to the U.S. State Department regarding the popular American boycott of Aruba due to the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. I am a tourism professional myself, a graduate of Texas A&M University's Recreation, Park, and Tourism program. I fully expect people such as yourselves to support Aruba in word if not in deed (though many tourism professionals in the U.S.- including some of my former professors at A&M- support the boycott). I say this because I know that business is business, and other Caribbean nations stand to gain all the business that Aruba will lose. However, this e-mail is not to discuss economics, but rather to respond to the letter you sent Ms. Rice as posted on arubatruth.com. I include a copy of this letter for your convenience as found on that website:

I would like to respond to each point you make in your letter point by point.

1. QUOTE: "Although this practice of extending a particular situation to the entire geographic region is unmerited, we understand United States' laws regarding freedom of the press"

Obviously, you do not understand freedom of the press in the United States, or perhaps this is an issue of a language barrier. In the series you mention, there is never any reference made to any other Caribbean country other than Aruba- not even other islands in the Netherland Antilles chain. I fail to see how a simple headline- crafted to capture the viewers attention and nothing more- is somehow hurting the other Caribbean islands. This is no different than mentioning the state of Texas to describe an event that happened specifically in Houston, for example.

Furthermore, at no point has Beth Holloway Twitty, Dave Holloway, Alabama Governor Riley, or anyone else among Beth's supporters called for a boycott of the entire Caribbean. This effort has always been directed at the Netherlands and moreso the Netherland Antilles. In fact, several times these people have suggested on national television that there are many other wonderful places in the Caribbean to visit instead of Aruba! Again, I fail to understand how recommending American tourists visit other Caribbean destinations is harming these places in any way.

2. QUOTE: "You will understand that the people of Aruba feel particularly selected for persecution when a casual perusal of the FBI's list of missing persons ( http://www.fbi.gov/mostwant/kidnap/kidmiss.htm)shows scores of persons who have been missing throughout the United States for far longer periods and there is no call for boycotts of those States in which the missing person was last seen."

Again, it is your organization- doubtlessly misled by your Aruban constituents- that does not understand. The issue is not what happened to Natalee, it is how the Aruban investigators have consistently mishandled and quite frankly ruined the investigation. To say that there are states in the U.S. that are not boycotted due to similar cases is missing the point entirely.

You see, in the United States we have judicial oversight that prevents the type of professional 'incest' that occurs in Aruban judicial and legal circles. On an island of less than 100,000 where every attorney, investigator, and judge knows each other and are often in the same social circles, how can any investigation be fair and impartial?

In the U.S., we do not allow conflicts of interest, such as when Curacao Judge Smit, a known and admitted friend of the Van Der Sloot family, was allowed to preside over at least one hearing involving the suspects. In the United States such a person would be removed from the case immediately and another, impartial judge brought in from any distance necessary! In short, comparing the Aruban system of 'justice' with that of the U.S. is like comparing apples to oranges.

In the United States such questionable actions as this and others (failing to share interrogation tapes with the FBI as promised, failure to search the entire grounds of the suspect's residence, alteration of documents signed by Beth Twitty just to name a few) would absolutely not be allowed in the U.S., and if such questionable actions were to occur there would be an immediate Federal investigation into the misconduct! But if you wish to compare the U.S. with Aruba in regards to missing persons, consider the case of Amy Bradley. This young woman, an American citizen, disappeared off a cruise ship in Netherland Antilels waters in 1998. To date there has been no trace of her found nor has the local government conducted any investigation, preferring instead to claim a perfectly healthy, sober woman somehow fell overboard in calm seas!

He who is without sin cast the first stone. Not so fast, Aruba.

To reiterate, the boycott is not about what happened to Natalee, it is because the investigation is at the exact same point now as it was on May 30, and why it is in this sad state. There is absolutely no excuse for competent and honest investigators to be at this point and this late. I can only assume said Aruban investigators are either incompetant or dishonest.

You must admit, these examples are quite damning and raise many suspicions, especially when the investigators choose to keep the same stance of offering empty promises, empty rhetoric, nonsensical explanations, and no real communication of any kind. To borrow another American phrase, "Talk is cheap". America demands answers.

3. QUOTE: "Aruba, in fact, is one of the great success stories of our hemisphere particularly as a people who are committed to democratic ideals and economic self-determination. Moreover, there is no one in our region who believes that any government official in Aruba or in any other Caribbean country would be engaged in protecting the wrongdoing of any individual citizen while risking the entire national economy."

It is true that Aruba is a great success story. However, if you truly believe that no Aruban official would jeopardize the national economy in the way you sugegst, consider the following:

Between 1986 and 1992 the Cuntrera and Caruana families of Italy- both known Mafia families who specialize in money laundering- acquired 60 per cent of Aruba through investments in hotels, casino's and manipulating the election campaign of the Prime Minister at that time. Furthermore, in 1996 Aruba was slated for full independence from the Netherlands, which would mark an end to status aparte.

However, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and even Venezuela pressured the Netherlands to postpone this move due to concerns of growing organized crime money laundering and drug smuggling through Aruba. Aruba is one of the few remaining Caribbean islands that has not honored the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty of 1986 in regards to sharing information about possible money laundering activities with partners in the United States. In fact, the very tourism industry that thrives in Aruba actually offers additional possibilities to re-invest drug profits in the form of casinos, nightclubs, hotels, and resorts.

Aruba is also a known drug smuggling haven, due in large part to the many free trade zones therein. There are many documented examples of large amounts of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana passing through Aruba. In fact, so many examples exist that the Drug Enforcement Agency of the U.S. can quote how much herion sells per kilo in Aruba ($23,000 USD), how much cocaine sells for ($4,500 USD), and how much a kilo of marijuana costs in Aruba ($2,000 USD). The DEA should know; they maintain a forward operating location in Aruba.

You claim that no politician would jeopardize the island's economy to protect anyone. That is simply not true; in fact, given the situation, it is absolutely naive to think this. First, the Dutch overlords of Aruba have no interest in the welfare of the common, native Aruban. It is a well-known fact that the Dutch bourgeoisie in Aruba have a well-entrenched and exclusive community seperate from the greater picture of life in Aruba. Incidentally, a Dutch acquaintance of mine tells me that this exact same condition exists in the Netherlands. Second, the criminals who own 60% of Aruba are far more powerful and dangerous than the formal government. It is a condition that exists throughout the Third World, sadly.

4. QUOTE: "We are confident that wise counsel from your good offices to those individuals and officials regarding these international matters would prove helpful in preventing these troublesome developments."

You do not seem to understand the full extent of seperation of powers that the United States enjoys. The U.S. State Department has not yet officially sanctioned the boycott, but there is absolutely nothing to prevent any number of governors, Congressmen and women, and private citizens from supporting the boycott. In fact, freedom of expression is ultimately the basis of the entire U.S. Constitution. Not even the President of the United States himself has the power or authority to 'blow the whistle' on Governor Riley or anyone else who chooses to support the boycott, even if they are in public office themselves. In fact, no amount of governmental displeasure can prevent popular opinion from forming in the United States, as the many antiwar protests during the Vietnam era prove.

In short, if the typical American believes Aruba is dangerous and corrupt, then Aruba is already doomed to become another Haiti. I predict that in time other Caribbean nations will be quick to distance themselves from Aruba to avoid not only guilt by association but also to reap the benefits of Aruba's dying tourism economy.

Thank you for your time and attention. I welcome, but do not expect, reply letters from each branch office.

Dan L., College Station, Texas, U.S.A.

Contact information for the CTO branches are ctony@caribtourism.com, ctotoronto@caribtourism.com, ctolondon@caribtourism.com, and ctobar@caribtourism.com

ARUBA TRUTH HASN'T A CLUE...

Caribbean Tourism Organization Letter To US State Department

See letter in its entirety here

...The other related matter that is particularly distressing is the call for boycotts of Aruba from persons holding elected offices as in the case of the Governor of the State of Alabama. You will understand that the people of Aruba feel particularly selected for persecution when a casual perusal of the FBI's list of missing persons shows scores of persons who have been missing throughout the United States for far longer periods and there is no call for boycotts of those States in which the missing person was last seen.

DUH...this isn't even CLOSE to being an anology. This is your comparison? Alabama has a missing woman and we are pretty sure that 3 of our own U.S. citizens were involved. What would be the purpose of boycotting Alabama? This reasoning doesn't even make sense.

..It is for these reasons that we wish to express our strongest possible outrage at these calls for boycotts, particularly from elected officials within the United States. We are confident that wise counsel from your good offices to those individuals and officials regarding these international matters would prove helpful in preventing these troublesome developments.


Sincerely,

CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION

My Questions for Aruba:

Why don't you want U.S. elected officials to endorse the boycott? Is it because you are truly afraid? Why don't you nip this in the bud, complete your investigation, get some answers for Natalee's family so you can get back to your regular pathetic lives? Your country has enough PR damage control to worry about...it is way beyond Natalee Holloway anymore. I can say that I would NEVER go to Aruba...even if they find answers to solve this crime. It's obviously not a safe place to visit...especially for young women. And I know for a fact that I am not the only one that agrees with me.


If these 3 boys are the cause of all these problems in your country, then why are you protecting them? Doesn't make sense. Why aren't the Aruban people angry at these three losers for not coming clean? Those 3 idiots (I forgot to mention PVS et al.) are trying to protect their asses, while they are leaving the rest of Aruba out in the wind.

KARIN JANSSEN WOMAN OF THE YEAR?

Now it makes perfect sense to me...if Aruba named her woman of the year, I'm sure they will name PVS man of the year for his poise and patience for having to put up with this 'Natalee Holloway matter'.

Isn't this the same woman who decided to take a vacation in the middle of investigating this case? Hmmm...gotta wonder where these people's brains are. Obviously up their asses!

ORANJESTAD (AAN) DIARIO’s Woman of the Year for this year is Karin P. J. Janssen who is chief prosecutor for the Public Ministry.

The reason Mrs. Karin Janssen was selected as Woman of the Year is for the work conducted during this year, but especially for the firm position she too un a case that has surely had a big impact on Aruba and internationally, the case of the missing American woman called Natalee.

It is known that Karin Janssen was and still is the chief of the investigation into the controversial case of Natalee’s disappearance.

There is much pressure on chief prosecutor, from the outside and even within the Public Ministry related to the case in question and she passed very difficult moments where even the government wanted to remove her.

Chief prosecutor Janssen worked hard alongside police to hand over proof on the case of Natalee and although on all sides they encountered many obstacles, they did not lose patience and continued working hard to solve a great problem in which the people of Aruba are not at fault.

(She worked so hard she went on vacation (out of the country, far, far away) during a crucial part of the investigation!)

None of the negative developments nor the great pressure have made this lady succumb and she has fostered respect and shown great courage.

(Respect? From whom? Arubans respect this woman because she is working to cover things up? Oooh...such pressure and courage, Karin! I suppose if my country's survival was on the line, I'd name her woman of the year, too.)

Once again, a woman in a key position demonstrates that they can maintain a cool head and continue ahead to do their duty and their professional obligation, like Mrs. Karin Janssen has shown during the year.

(Yeah, she keeps a cool head because she never did and hasn't done JACK from DAY ONE...I suppose if one doesn't give a crap about a case it wouldn't cause stress or being hot-headed, now would it?!)

MORE JOE MAMMANA AFTER RITA COSBY APPEARANCE

I just got off the phone with Joe M. about his appearance on Rita Cosby last night. I was disappointed that they didn't talk more about the boycott, so I gave Joe some open 'cyber-waves' to finish what he wanted to say.

His first words were, "Man, I shut her up last night. (Arlene Schippers). We laughed and I said, "She is a real bitch, isn't she?!" Joe M. has a message for Aruba, "...this whole thing (boycott) is going to be like a slow-motion train wreck. We are building momentum and they are going to be standing there in front of the tracks when he hit them head on."

He reminded his opponents that it doesn't matter if each state's governor is with us or not. It isn't about getting a political endorsement for the boycott...it's just a matter of telling people, "Hey! Don't go to Aruba." He said that political endorsements help, but we are the ones that really make things happen. The grassroots organizations (little people like you and me!) are the ones that are really getting out and doing something about it. Do you see the citizens of Aruba standing up and getting involved like we are here in the U.S.?

He also wanted to throw in there that Philadelphia has been the first and only city to draw up and bring forth a bipartisan resolution to boycott Aruba to the City-Council. It is currently on the docket...so we will have to wait to see what happens there.

Until then, just don't go to Aruba! Plain and simple. If you want to go on vacation, simply choose somewhere else. It doesn't take any effort on our part to NOT do something. Joe mentioned that he had just gotten off the phone with a travel agent who said that she is telling her clients not to go to Aruba and she is not promoting or encouraging anyone to vacation there. According to this travel agent, a majority of her fellow colleagues feel the same as her and are doing the same thing.

Joe said, "There are more people with us than against us." I nodded my head, "Absolutely."