Panama's 2015 Cumbre de las Americas

photo via TVN Panama

Spent the weekend glued to the TV watching national news coverage of the Cumbre de las Americas in Panama City.  The coverage was excellent, and Panama performed magnificently as host country.  President Juan Carlos Varela was an exemplary statesman and host. 

The much anticipated encounter between President Obama and Raul Castro of Cuba took place this afternoon around 3:20 pm.  There were lots of speculations about resuming full diplomatic relations, embassies in both countries, and the reopening of trade and commerce. One of the prerequisites, however, is removal of Cuba from the USA's list of countries that support international terrorism, and no promises were made regarding this action. Much pressure from multiple factions, but no declarations on the part of the US president.  

Last night, Panama hosted a state dinner in Panama Viejo.  From photos published elsewhere, it seems lighting technicians transformed the site vastly beyond its true appearance. Conspicuously absent from the dinner were Raul Castro, Daniel Ortega, Evo Morales, and Nicholas Maduro.  Dilma Rouseff, [Brazil] appeared briefly and left before the dinner. Barack Obama attended briefly and left after dinner. 

Photo from First Lady's FB page

At the conference today, multiple leaders addressed the forum to discuss issues of primary importance for their countries.  Each leader was allotted 8 minutes to make an address.  Daniel Ortega, Raul Castro, Christina Kirchner, and Nicolas Maduro, far exceeded the time limits, running over 20-30 minutes in most cases.  President Maduro delivered a letter from a few Panamanian citizens in El Chorillo requesting the US apologize and indemnify family members of  civilian casualties that resulted from the 1989 invasion to remove Manuel Noriega from power.  In a post-conference synopsis, a leftist Panamanian journalist commented that Panama "moved on" from that experience and mentioned the 25 yr old issue isn't Venezuela's to address.  

To give credence to either Castro or Maduro was to believe the US responsible for all the hunger, poverty, and prostitution  problems existing in both countries.  I lean to the left on many social issues, but the poor taste of both men coupled with their thinly veiled attempts to distract audiences from  human rights atrocities and oppression in their own countries moved me temporarily a few paces right.   Daniel Ortega did a reasonably believable commentary on US expansionist practices over the last two centuries, and Evo Morales read a speech obviously prepared by someone else highlighting all the faults of the US and Canada regarding north american foreign policy toward Venezuela.  

Perhaps it should have been obvious, but for me the most surprising aspect of today's discussions was the overwhelming political support given Venezuela in the face of President Obama's presidential decree that 7 individuals from that country pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the security of the United States.  Nearly all participants in the summit were against the decree and against sanctions on Venezuela. No one spoke out against Venezuela nor Cuba for their oppression of civil liberties and human rights violations.  Several leaders openly opposed the US decree and requested it's revocation. Among those leaders were Christina Kirchner of Argentina,  Evo Morales of Bolivia, Rafael Correa of Ecuador, Raul Castro of Cuba, and the President of Trinidad and Tobago.  But while the criticisms of the US treatment of Venezuela were being expressed inside the summit, Venezuelan expats in Panama City gathered on  balconies of nearby apartment complexes and noisily banged pots and pans to express their opposition to the government of Venezuela.  At the Hotel Riu, Cuban expats from Miami who flew to Panama to take part in a parallel Civil Society forum, were kicked, scratched and beaten by pro-Castro Cuban participants.  They ended up leaving without participating in their forum. 

source: La Estrella, Panama

Topics of focus and concern mentioned by nearly all national leaders included sovereignty, governance, migration, security, violence, global warming, environment, communications, connectivity and education.  The Summit was labeled a success by all of the participants, with emphasis given to the need for dialogue and solidarity.   Many points of view were discussed, but huge gaps in understanding and agreement remain. Although President Obama was warmly received by Panama, his reception was much cooler amongst many of the participating  dignitaries.  Evo Morales mentioned, while interviewed by one of the Panamanian journalists, that he hadn't spoken with President Obama, "nor did he have any interest in doing so."  

Panama deserves acknowledgment for its great management of this major event. 

(And I congratulate myself for comprehending a full two days of political talks by world leaders delivered solely in Spanish.)  

Panama Hosts the Seventh Summit of the Organization of American States

http://cumbredelasamericas.pa/

April 10^th and 11^th are the dates of the Cumbre de las Americas in Panama City.  Thirty five heads of state are expected to participate, including Raul Castro of Cuba and Barack Obama of the United States. Their attendance is being seen as an historic first attempt at normalizing relations between the two countries. Also expected to be present is Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela, who has been actively campaigning against the US president and vows to present Mr. Obama with a petition signed by 8-10 million people requesting that Mr. Obama repeal his March 9^th decree naming Venezuela as an unusual threat to USA security and foreign policy.

Panama is going all out with security and hospitality measures.  President Juan Carlos Varela has declared both the 10^th and 11^th of April as government holidays in order to decrease traffic congestion in the capital city and to facilitate travel for summit participants. 

Four days ago the AAC (Autoridad de Aeronáutica Civil) held a press conference to announce the prohibition of the use of drones in Panama.  The measure is in effect from April 5^th to April 13^th,  to avoid any mishaps or setbacks in aerial travel for those coming to the Summit.  Heavy fines of $50,000 will be levied against any person or agency not heeding the restriction.  There is to be a post-event conference involving those entities that use drones for the purpose of establishing norms and routes for modern-world usage of these devices in Panama.

The municipality of Panama City has also issued Decree 18-2015 that establishes civil restrictions against immoral or unbecoming conduct, bearing firearms, wearing “any article that totally or partially covers the face of an individual,” creating noise or any type of scandal that infringes on the provisions of Agreement 141 established on 9/23/14, and prohibits street marketing and hawking in the metro areas of Calidonia, Bella Vista, and San Francisco. 

Legal inspectors, district council persons, and municipal guards have been granted additional authority to facilitate their being able to remove vehicles and similar abandoned properties compromising the designated perimeters along public thoroughfares to the Cumbre de las Americas. Agreement 138 of 9/9/14 is identified as the legal recourse for this. Other provisions allow for the areas of Bella Vista, Calidonia, Parque LeFevre, San Felipe and San Francisco to take prompt action against any administrative offense occurring in the area where the Summit takes place.  Fines for infingements can range from $50 to $1000.

And then, today, the Metro bus drivers in Panama City initiated an illegal and unjustified work stoppage, blocking the exit of public buses from the barn and leaving millions of workers stranded/unable to get to work.  The bus drivers were protesting the delay in payments they should have received from the company Mi Bus, which failed miserably at providing public transportation and employee compensation during the Martinelli years.  The company is being acquired by the Panamanian government and President Varela has agreed to compensate the drivers for lost wages despite a lack of legal responsibility to do so.   The militant drivers who staged the protest, refusing to give way for buses to leave the barn,  threw rocks at the police and eventually were forcibly removed.  Several of the leaders admitted they hadn’t read the contractual agreements regarding payment of lost wages and apparently had to be informed of their illegal actions.  They have since agreed to ongoing dialogue.  The controversy exists because the government cannot compensate these workers until it actually acquires the Mi Bus enterprise. The take over hasn’t yet concluded.

The latest announcements today are that the strike has been lifted.  Several government agencies have employees trained in the operation of the buses should additional personnel be required to maintain the operation of public transportation in the coming days. 

Another Ugly American Story

The following photos were uploaded from facebook pages and are covered with extensive commentary on Boquete.ning.com.  I am pasting and posting here for extended coverage of an event that bears ongoing circulation.  The story related below is taken from statements posted by some of the people involved in the incident. 

The man in the photo walked over to a neighbor's home in Santa Lucia, Volcancito on Dec. 16th and shot through their fence to injure the neighbor's two pet dogs who were inside the yard.  He claims to have done so in retaliation for one of the dogs having bitten his child earlier. The child is reported to have only superficial wounds and was observed teasing the dog while it was out on its daily run. The poor animal was shot in the jugular area and is currently in critical condition.  The second dog received a superficial gunshot wound. The man used an air rifle, which apparently is silent. When the animals cried out from being shot, the owners became aware of the action. The owners spoke with the shooter, Justin Whitney Reinholz, following the incident and asked the obvious questions.   Mr. Reinholz warned them he had killed lots of dogs in the US and that he also had "real" guns and wouldn't hesitate to return to deal with the owners if necessary.  He is seen resting on his gun muzzle and smiling at the Panamanian neighbors through their fence after the incident.

Needless to say there is a lot of outrage in our area---not only from an expat community that has two full time charities plus numerous satellite organizations dedicated to the humane treatment and rescue of animals, but also from an increasingly agitated Panamanian population that has just about "had it" with the growing influx of foreigners and the problems they are introducing.  And to top it all off, December 20th is the anniversary of operation Just Cause, which always seems to pour salt into the unhealed wounds of many nationals.

Animal groups in the expat community have reached out to the owners of the wounded dogs and are offering assistance to get the appropriate denuncias filed for legal action to be taken against the shooter.  Apparently, he also has filed a complaint against the dog owners. He is either married to a Panamanian or is the custodial parent of two Panamanian children, so there are multiple issues related to how his actions are handled by authorities.

As is generally the case with the Boquete.ning forum, opinions and sentiments abound.  Some expats are angry at being "profiled" because of nationality. Others are over the top in demanding a meeting with the mayor for the purpose of getting their sentiments of regret publically expressed.   In my opinion, we need to learn restraint and to stop trying to take over.  We should allow the Panamanian legal, regulatory, and social instititions to do what they are meant to do.  I feel demanding a meeting with the mayor is akin to making still another demand for "special"  attention. Why should our concerns be addressed differently or more expediently than that of any other citizen or resident who has a  regret to express?  

I'm amazed at the sudden concern from expats about how we might be perceived. Perceptions are built over time from ordinary, everyday encounters and interactions.  An incident such as this one can certainly add fuel to the fire, but it alone isn't going to make a generalized negative  impression.  If there is a backlash now, it's not because of this single, albeit horrific, event.  It's because of our behavior patterns in everyday matters. It's about the way we continue to conduct ourselves. 

The governmental and social systems currently in place haven't been given the opportunity to function yet.  The ink is barely dry on the denuncias, and we are already demonstrating what pains  in the  #$%&#   we  expats can truly be.  Will we never learn a little humility, deference, respect and patience?  Have a little trust that things will work out as they should.  It happens here more often than any of us are willing to imagine. I am continuously amazed at how efficient things are here as compared to back home.  

Please, people, just chill.  If you need to do something, express your heartfelt apologies to the dog owners.  That might truly help. 

Another Successful Concert at the Biblioteca

Director Elsa Castillo deserves kudos for organizing another great musical event at the Boquete Biblioteca---this time a youth symphony orchestra from David.  It's the first of it's kind in Panama, and the musicians, ranging in age from 8 to 21, were incredibly accomplished for their short tenures as part of the ensemble.  According to information provided, some students had as little as 6 months of music lessons and the "senior" participants may have had as much as 2 years. They played 6-7 classical pieces, including selections from the Nutcracker Suite and Dvorak's New World Symphony, then ended the afternoon with traditional Christmas music and one latin calypso rhythm.  They received standing ovations from a pleased audience of both Panamanian and expat attendees.  The orchestra is named after it's founder,  Manuel Obaldía Alvarado, and is better known as M.O. A. for short. 

Mother's Day Program in Caldera

December 8th is Mother's Day in Panama, and it's a big deal here.  Unlike in the states where Mother's Day is always on a Sunday, in Panama Mother's Day is a National Holiday.   Businesses are closed and entire communities get involved in creating a tribute to all mothers in the country.  There are public programs in local parks and town centers where town officials, local politicians, and community groups give speeches, presentations, and donated gifts to  mothers in the community. Cultural groups and students from local schools often provide either oratory, musical or dance performances, and sometimes food or flowers are distributed to the mothers in the assembled crowds. It's a nice way to make women who are also mothers feel special and appreciated. 

Last night I had to opportunity to attend a Mother's Day Celebration in the little town of Caldera.  It was a humble but uplifting event.  It was impressive to see how the school aged boys of the town were utilized as greeters, ushers and servers. Following the program they were thanked for their assistance. One of the youths responded by saying how pleased he and the others were at being able to be of service.  He expressed their ongoing willingness to contribute to the community.   

It never ceases to amaze me how Panamanians of all ages can spontaneously provide gracious, positive, and constructive commentary regarding any topic or content, if asked. I see it over and over again in television "man on the street" interviews and in public gatherings.  I think it must be something inculcated in their education and upbringing. From the humblest of citizens to the most prestigious, it's something they seem to do instinctively.  

The Mother's Day celebration in Boquete is yet to occur.  It will be a larger and more expensive program with bigger and better gifts for some fortunate mothers.  Usually stoves, refrigerators, and many smaller household items are donated by local merchants. I've never understood how the gifting is organized, but somehow the community is aware of who the local mothers are and they are provided with tickets which later are used for drawings after the performances.  I am hoping to see some of my neighbors win  valuable prices this year.  

President Varela Visits Boquete

The holiday festivities were still going strong at noon when I drove downtown to explore.   Panama's new President,  Juan Carlos Varela, was in the grandstand watching the marching bands and waving to people.  Additional bands and other participants are traveling in from surrounding areas, and I expect the parade will continue into the early night hours.    It's really an emotional experience to see Panama's school children express their patriotism,  and a major reason I never tire of attending the parades.

For great photos taken by Mark Heyer, go to this URL.  You won't be sorry !

https://plus.google.com/photos/111402995672060871942/albums/6087674090577334337?authkey=CI2mxqmy_4_wlgE

Boquete Rainbow---A Sign of Summer

I've said all along that summer was going to be here early this year...We've had an incredibly mild rainy season, and the winds, bajareques, and rainbows are already here!  This will probably mean water shortages toward the end of the summer, and a few dry mountainsides, but we can deal with all that if/when it becomes an issue.  For now, the summer is a welcome thought.

Yesterday was the date of Panama's Independence from Spain, and we are in the midst of a 4-day weekend.  There were school bands that marched in a several hour-long parade yesterday.  But the pueblo is officially celebrating the event tomorrow, Sunday.  There will be marching bands and polleras and horses and music and longs lines of people along the downtown streets from about 9 am until around 6 pm.  The preparations are underway at this time.  A quick trip to the grocery store revealed the following images of a sleepy mountain town gearing up to throw a party...

A Small Donation for a Worthy Cause

The lovely gringa in this photo is Lindsey Parry,  who runs a non-profit here in Boquete called Sewing Seeds of Love (SSOL). She employs and supports Ngobe Bugle women to sew clothing designs Lindsey creates for sale in the US under the label 4 Love Clothing. She has been in the US for several months now, working extra jobs to earn enough money to continue the non-profit and promote the fledgling 4 Love clothing line in the US. Below is a letter she sent out to friends. A copy of it was forwarded to me. I am posting here in case anyone feels inclined to contribute a small gift to a worthwhile cause at Christmas. I'm sure even the smallest donation would be gratefully accepted. See letter below.  Here are two website addresses to become more informed about her organizations:

http://www.4loveclothing.com

http://sowingseedsoflove.org

I can’t believe it is almost November and there are already Christmas decorations everywhere I look. I’m in shock over how fast this year has flown by, but in the midst of life and daily responsibility it is quite empowering to take a step back and reflect… This year has brought about a number of trials and tribulations for me personally as I continue to face the unknowns in my journey to walk God’s path for me. Fortunately, each time I’ve felt fear and worry over the future stir in me, I’ve been led to rely on this particular bible verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Each time I recite these words, I’m filled with peace and encouragement as the truth they hold resonates with my spirit. In times of doubt they restore my faith and give me the strength to continue to run the race with perseverance. If you’re in the midst of a struggle or anything, I encourage you to read (and perhaps memorize) this verse. When you feel fear creeping in, whisper these words and allow the peace they bring to fill you. The adventure of life is one heck of a ride. On one hand it’s filled with trials and tribulations and on the other, it’s filled with SO many reasons to celebrate…like Christmas, which is just around the corner! As many of you know, I’m a huge advocate for giving the women and children that SSOL serves “life experiences”. I want to expose them to things they’ve never done before. And with Christmas, I want to make it as special as possible… While it’s common around the holidays for the children (at the orphanage only) to receive gifts, few people take time to truly do something special for these people. To help amp up their Christmas experience, I’ve come up with the following “Christmas experiences”, one for the children at the orphanage and one for the children at our on-site project and the 4Love women:  Christmas at the Orphanage: Surprise the children with an afternoon and evening of Bounce Houses, Slip n’ Slide, music, grilling out for dinner and ice cream sundaes for 60+ children and all the workers. Estimated cost: $700 Christmas for the women and children of SSOL and 4Love: A day at the beach where transportation and lunch is provided for the women, children and their families. Estimated cost: $500 For the past three years, SSOL has partnered with the local orphanage to help provide gifts for all 60 children on Christmas day. This year we would like to do the same for the 20 children who attend our SSOL on-site project… In the past, gifts have ranged from colored pencils and coloring books to some sort of game or soccer ball, depending on the child’s interest. Since I know each of these kids extremely well, I’ll personally be shopping for their gifts to ensure they receive something they’ll truly love. An average of $20 is spent to give each child a really nice gift. Total cost for the children at our on-site project is $400. I’m currently in the states and will be heading back to Panama on November 17th.  Since there are better deals (and the quality is much better) stateside, I’d like to buy the majority of these gifts while I’m here. If you feel moved to help with any of these proposed “Christmas experiences”, donations can be made through our website here or if you prefer to send a check, they can be made out to Sowing Seeds of Love and sent to Kim Register: 209 Waterbury Ln. IHB, FL 32937 A warm hug and a big thank you to each of you who help make Christmas a little brighter for these children year after year. Without your support, none of this is possible. Love, Lindsey   Copyright © 2014 Sowing Seeds of Love, All rights reserved.  Thanks for signing up for our newsletter at church or via email.  Our mailing address is:  Sowing Seeds of Love 209 Waterbury Lane IHB, FL 32937

A Panamanian Quinceañera

When a girl turns fifteen years of age in most Latin American countries, her family holds a BIG party to celebrate her becoming a woman.  I've been to such events held by Mexican families and by Costa Rican families, but tonight's party was the first Panamanian celebration I've attended.   Photos will help to illustrate just how big of a deal this is for Latin American families.  The young lady being celebrated tonight is from a socio-economically humble family matrix.  The costs parents incur to hold these events for their daughters will never cease to impress me.  

Birthday Girl's Place of Honor

Father presenting his daughter with the traditional ring.

Mother presenting daughter with traditional high-heeled sandals.

A few of the partygoers

Proud, if not stressed, parents

Sandal-bearer, Ring-bearer, and Flower Girl

Singer / Entertainer

Brother-Sister Waltz

Happy 100th Anniversary to the Panama Canal

Photo from internet, wikipedia.es

Tomorrow Panama celebrates the 100^th anniversity of the Panama Canal.  I just finished watching a documentary about the canal on the national television channel and have to sincerely admire Panama and its people for what they went through during 96 years of US foreign occupation of the canal zone.  I get my hackles up whenever some arrogant, conservative expat mouths off that “Carter should have never given away the canal.”  But this documentary, through no overt intention of its own, intensified the sentiment.  I’ve always believed Carter did the right thing.  The canal wasn't really ours to keep or give away.  Panama has always been the landlord.  We may have improved the property value and negotiated some unfair advantages, but that didn’t mean we owned it.  We leached plenty of profit from the canal over the time we rigidly controlled it. 

My recent research revealed that the US paid Panama 10 million dollars for permission to construct the canal in 1903, plus it paid Panama $250,000 annually in rent from then on.  How magnaminous!  The average toll for ONE cargo ship to pass through the canal is that amount.

While the US occupied the canal zone, it brought along segregationist, imperialist, colonialist attitudes to a host country and civilization that never differentiated people according to skin color or origin.   Having lived in the deep south as a child, I still remember the segregationist signs on water fountains and bathroom doors that delineated “colored” and “white”.   I think this has stuck so vividly in my mind because in my childish innocence, I chose to drink out of a “colored” fountain once, expecting the water to come out red, or blue, or purple.  I was sorely disappointed when it was just regular water, and even more dismayed and puzzled when my mother explained to me that white people drank out of one, and colored people out of the other.  Even at that tender age it seemed wrong to me.

Tonight’s documentary on TVN 2 showed photos of life in the early canal zone, and these exact same water fountains were seen in some of the shots. An elderly Panamanian man who grew up in the canal zone recounted how, as a child, there were separate housing tracts for “colored people” and for “whites”.  He said the houses for the white people had nicer yards and landscaping.  One time he ran across the street to pick a mango from a tree along the side of a public road in the common area.  He was acosted by a military policeman and told to get back to his own neighborhood.  He could never understand why, as a Panamanian in his own country, he couldn’t pick a mango off a tree on the side of the road. The documentary also talked of how, by order of US President Taft, over 20,000 Panamanians in numerous aldeas and villages along the route of the canal were summarily stripped of their lands and left to their own devices to find new living arrangements.  They were simply told to move.  Numerous villages were then flooded and submerged to create Lago Gatun, a 33 kilometer man-made lake that is considered the world’s largest.  Gatun Lake provides the water required to fill the canal locks and move the huge ocean liners through the canal.

The 1964 riots and subsequent bloodshed caused when Panamanian university students insisted a Panamanian flag be flown alongside a US one in the canal zone, as stated in one of the canal treaties,  was briefly mentioned in tonight's documentary.  The resultant deaths that occurred at the hands of US troops brought about significant strains in foreign relations between the two countries and was the impetus for the 1977 Neutrality Treaty signing by then-presidents Torrijos and Carter.  

Panama has done well since assuming control of the canal 14 years ago.  By the end of 2015, there will be an additional set of locks as part of the canal expansion.   Government education programs have been implemented to teach the population regarding conservation of the river basins and watershed areas feeding the three lakes that supply water to the canal.  As one environmental scientist expressed,  ‘It’s no longer just about running a canal zone.  It’s about incorporating a nation and caring for the Chagres River and the tributaries that fill the lakes. It’s about involving everyone for the good of the country and its people.'

I just have to say I’m exceptionally proud to be living here in Panama and sharing the joy this country feels at celebrating the 100-year anniversary of one of the world’s seven wonders, the Panama Canal.

A Very Busy First Day for President Varela

Today is a government holiday and all offices as well as the majority of business establishments and retail stores are closed to celebrate the inauguration of the new President and assumption of power by the new administration.  

I've been watching the special news coverage of President Varela's activities for his first day in office.  He was scheduled to sign a proclamation freezing food prices for Panama's Canasta Basica at 4:00 pm.  It finally happened at around 6:00 pm, when he listed the 22 items involved and the prices at which each item was frozen.  This was positive, as many supermarkets have been raising prices for a few weeks in what may have been the mistaken belief that the prices would be frozen at the price they were on the day the new President took office.  Instead,prices have been set and frozen. The prices won't go into effect until July 7, however, because additional time is needed to implement monitoring procedures.  President Varela did announce, that all supermarkets, small stores, corner markets and open air vendors are expected to maintain the established prices.  Below is the listing of prices. 

Rice, first quality: 40 cents

Medium eggs: 16 cents each, $1.87 dozen

White bread loaves: 92 cents

Yellow cheese: 10 cents a slice

Beef---Babilla: $2.87 lb

Beef---Jarrete: $2.30 lb

Potatoes, nationally grown: 60 cents lb

Beef sausage: $1.19 lb

Beef---Bistec de cinta: $2.45 lb

Powdered Milk: $3.76 can, 360g

Chicken breast: 65 cents lb

Pear tomatoes, nationally grown: $1.08 lb

Ground Beef: $2.00 lb

Lentils: 56 cents lb

Whole chickens, Panama: $1.18 por libra

Tuna: $1.02 can, 170 grams

Yellow onion: 60 cents lb

Macarroni: 59 cents lb

Red Beans: 96 cents lb

Yuca: 28 cents lb

Pork chops: $1.90 lb

Ñame: 35 cents lb

These prices are acclaimed to save the normal Panamanian household about $58 per month. 

Following the signing of the emergency food pricing decree, the new President flew to Colon.  Upon arrival he was transported by car to the town center where local leaders, government officials, and a large crowd awaited him.   It was actually quite frightening to watch, because the crowd engulfed the vehicle and people pushed, and shoved and insulted security forces in attempts to approach Mr. Varela.  I couldn't help but feel concern over security matters, because people were reaching inside the vehicle and the body guards on the outside were unable to fend them off.  The vehicle couldn't proceed more than a few inches at a time because of the surrounding populace, and my thoughts kept turning to how easy it would be for someone to pull out a gun and shoot, if they were so inclined.  I kept wondering why the route hadn't been cordoned off with police, as would have happened in the USA.  The television announcer also seemed somewhat concerned, as one could hear the nervousness in her voice.  She mentioned that additional security forces had been called up, but they weren't there at the time of the filming, when the car was still some ways from the podium.    If this weren't enough, President Varela  opened the car door when the vehicle was about 6 feet away,  and walked to the podium.  

Given the fact that Colon is a city known for violence and gangs, this struck me as less than safe.  I caught my breath and kept reminding myself we were in Panama, not the USA.  And effectively, everything was just fine. 

President Varela did take the opportunity to plead with the city's youth to give up their gang affiliations and turn over a new leaf in their lifestyles.  He pledged to give financial support to the city, to establish new employment opportunities, and to renovate some of the housing ruins, such as the Wilcox building which houses some 100 underprivileged families.  He promised to visit often and vowed not to   fall back on any promises.  He mentioned that in a city consisting of 16 streets and 30 youth gangs, he hoped to convert Colon into a city of 30 integrated families and 16 beautiful streets with renovated architecture reminiscent of New Orleans in the USA.  He expressed his desire to be different than all the other newly elected Presidents who promised to come to Colon's aide and somehow failed to do so. His speech seemed sincere, if not somewhat idealistic.  He hinted at the responsibility of the free zone to do more for the city, and perhaps he will levy some taxes on very wealthy merchants in the free zone to help with some of the renovation.  I personally would see no harm in this tactic.  The city of Colon, which houses the Canal free zone, receives a pittance from the lowly rents collected by the national government from the wealthy foreign merchants. 

After Colon, President Varela was headed back to Panama City, to the Cinta Costera, for additional festivities scheduled there.  His first day in office must have felt a lot like a busy day of campaigning...He has pledged transparency in all government activities and his first day has certainly been an inspiring one.  

Pretzels at Mort's Bakery

Stopped in for bagels at Mort's Bakery in San Francisco Plaza today.  Was pleasantly surprised to learn he's started baking pretzels, primarily at the behest of the German expats in Boquete.  Had to try one, so I had him pack a single pretzel in my bagel bag and headed home.  On the way, I reached in and bit into the pretzel.  That was the end of me.  I've eaten plenty of pretzels in my day, but this one, was bar none, the best ever!  I turned around and headed back for more.

They are a little on the small side for soft pretzels, but bursting with flavor and definitely addictive. They cost $1.50, which in my opinon is a little high for this area.  Mort explained to me that the cost is determined by the market. The current low demand plus freshness restraints prevent his producing them in quantity. Also, they require lime, which involves additional clothing and safety measures, augmenting the manpower hours for preparation.  He claims that increased demand will bring down the price, because it costs him the same to produce 20 as to produce 100 and the higher sales would make up for a decreased price.  I'd like to see the price drop to $1.00 per pretzel because I think that is a fairer purchase and I'd buy a lot more at that rate.   I also encouraged him to consider making more and freezing what didn't sell after day one.  I would have no problem eating a thawed pretzel that had been frozen the day of baking.  In fact, I'd even buy a frozen dozen and bring them out one at a time for personal use at home.  

Mort mulled that over and expressed that a few additional customers with my attitude could perhaps do the trick.   If you are out there, please stop in and try Mort's pretzels.   Then, if so inclined, tell him the same thing I did.

Boquete Library Hosts Classical Guitar Virtuosos

Residents of Chiriqui had the good fortune of listening to two very accomplished classical guitarists visiting Panama for an International Concert two weeks ago.

John Marcel Williams, from the United States, and Oscar Somersalo, from Finland made a side tip to Boquete and gave spellbinding performances to a full house at the new library.

Acoustics were lacking, but the occasional sounds of buses passing on the road below or the one-time crowing of a wayward rooster didn't dampen spirits or lessen anyone's enjoyment.  The performers took it all in stride.    Following the performance Price Peterson took the microphone to thank the musicians for their visit and the audience for their participation.  As he commented,  "this certainly isn't New York".  Nevertheless we were all grateful for the opportunity to hear such marvelous talent.  Kudos to the library director, Elsa Castillo, who was able to coordinate the event on short notice and without any assurances the event would be well-attended. (Father's Day, the soccer World Cup, and a musical concert at the BCP were competing events.) 

It was definitely a success and a very inspiring one at that.

Update on Forensic Findings

According to the most recent announcement by the Ministerio Publico, the remains found in Alto Romero are confirmed as belonging to Lisanne Froon.   The investigation regarding Lisanne Froon has changed from one of possible kidnapping to one of possible homicide according to Betzaida Pitti.  She emphasized, however, that any attempt to determine the cause of death ---whether natural or traumatic---would be premature and needs to be left up to forensic experts.  She as well as others have reiterated that the trail from Boquete to Bocas del Toro, upon which the two women traveled, obligates the traveler to cross the Culubré river three separate times.  From videos provided by the national news service, these crossing are extremely treacherous. 

Ms. Pitti has assured that the process they've followed has been appropriate all along and that calm needs to prevail in order to carry out the best investigation into the circumstances that lead to Lisanne Froon's demise. 

The spokesperson for the Froon and Kremers families indicated the parents of both women will issue a joint communication from Holland.  

Probable Remains of Dutch Women Found

Shoes, human bones and other remains were found along the Rio Culubré near Bocas del Toro providence yesterday.  Forensic specialists were flown today to the site to extract DNA samples and run confirmatory tests.  Tennis shoes located at the scene are a brand sold exclusively in Holland.  Confirmation the remains belong to Lisanne Froon and Kris Kremers is pending.  Local residents of the area where the remains were found surmise that the two women may have fallen into the river and been carried downstream by the forceful currents.  Large rocks in the riverbed, as well as snakes and poisonous spiders are some of the hazards they could have encountered.

Below is a link to the latest TV video regarding the missing women and the recent discovery. It also has relevant footage of Boquete, and introduces the recommendation for trail maintenance and international signage to accommodate increased ecotourism in the area.

http://www.tvn-2.com/Noticias/Paginas/Senderos-en-Boquete-no-tienen-senalizaciones.aspx

The families of the women have not yet made statements.

A Better Paso Canoas Experience

Everyone has been talking about Hostal La Morenita, the newest lodging option in Paso Canoas, so I decided to explore for myself this weekend.  I was more than pleasantly surprised.  Prices are in keeping with other options in town,  yet you get so much more for those same prices. 

The facility is clean, has comfortable, common outside space and social areas, modern, efficient air conditioning, comfortable beds, wi-fi, and even a small internet cafe with late model hardware and monitors.  Meals are prepared by the owners, Ricardo and Nilka, and I thoroughly enjoyed my favorite typical Panamanian plate---Corvina al ajillo, patacones, mixed green salad, and an ice cold cerveza Atlas. Although it's being called a hostal, La Morenita is much nicer than hostals I've visited in Panama City.  The rooms are in line with those of Cabinas Romy, in the center of Paso Canoas, however La Morenita's fixtures are much nicer and there is no comparison regarding atmosphere and service. La Morenita is heads above in that aspect as well.

Located about 3 km outside the downtown area, in a town called Canoas Arriba, La Morenita is located on the Panama side of a road that divides it from Costa Rica.  This proved a great advantage for me, because I was able to drive my car all the way to the hostal.  When staying previously in Costa Rican facilities, I couldn't take my car across.  I had to park somewhere on the Panama side and either hail a taxi or shoulder my heavy bags back and forth. In addition to less than pleasant downtown accommodations, I always worried about how safe my car was. This time it wasn't a concern.

Others have remarked on how pleasant and service-oriented the owner Ricardo and his wife are.  I can only agree with everything that has been said about them. Last night Ricardo introduced me to some locals who had stopped in. We all enjoyed good conversation and a pleasant visit outside on the terrace. Jokingly, I told Ricardo I wanted Corvina al ajillo and patacones for breakfast. After having two cups of delicious cafe con leche, this morning. I was served the following breakfast, which I inhaled almost as quickly as last night's dish.  

The only less than pleasant aspect of the entire visit was discovering I had a flat front tire in the morning.  I had noticed a slight vibration when I was driving into David, but after stopping at a gas station and putting air in all tires, the guy there assured me all was well.  Apparently I had ran over something, though.  Even this was easily handled by Ricardo, who possessed an air compressor and inflated the tire so I could drive to a tire store.

I am thrilled to have "found" this place,  recommended by expats who've been here before me.  I selfishly hesitated a bit regarding publishing this post, because I know that the quality of the accommodations coupled with the pleasant atmosphere and excellent cooking will make La Morenita highly sought by those who frequent Paso Canoas for shopping or visa runs.  I discussed with Ricardo my fears that his creation, open for business for only six months, will become so popular that demand will raise prices and bring about other changes.  He responded that he is hoping to be able to keep prices fair and maintain the service quality with full occupancy.  One can certainly hope that remains the case.  

If you are planning a trip to Paso Canoas in the near future, this would be my first recommendation, bar none.   Where in the past I absolutely dreaded going to Paso Canoas, this time I sort of wished I had more time to spend there.