Del Rey
A.M. Costa Rica
Your daily English-language news source Monday through Friday

Weather ear
Cocal for Jan. 20
Prisma
                    Dental
Hotel Alta
Del Rey 220
(506) 2223-1327                                   Published Tuesday, May 26, 2015, in Vol. 15, No. 102                                   Email us
Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
Rock construction


Moon-volcano theory designed to predict eruptions
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Some Cartago area residents are betting that the Turrialba volcano will produce a major eruption at the next full moon, June 2,

The prediction contains a lot of logic because full moons have a well-documented effect on ocean tides. The high tides are not just because of the moon. The lunar body, when full or brightly lighted, is on the opposite side of the earth from the sun, but the sun also has a strong gravitational influence on tides from the opposite direction.

When there is a new moon, that is the moon is dark, both the moon and the sun are pulling the earth in the same direction.

Seeking a relationship between the moon and volcano eruptions or even earthquakes goes back to antiquity.

Husband and wife volcano experts Steve and Donna O'Meara studied Italy's Stromboli volcano more than 25 years ago and obtained data that showed a relationship.

They determined that when the moon is closest to the earth during its variable orbit, called  perigee, and also at full moon, volcanic activity would be greater.
During their 14 days living on the shoulder of the continually eruption volcano, the pair determined that the greatest spike in volcanic activity occurred at a time between full moon and perigee, according to the  National Geographic Society, which supported the expedition.

The most recent perigees for Costa Rica were March 19, when the moon was just 222,189 miles away, April 16
(224,325  miles) and May 14 (227,444 miles).
Moon-quake chronology
Perigee
Full moon
Eruption

March 5



March 12
March 19



April 4



April 7
April 16




April 23

May 3



May 4


May 10
May 14




May 17 & 18

June 2



Possible
June 9


  Chart shows blue boxes when major
  eruptions took place between the full moon
  and the lunar perigee.


The next close approach is June 9 when the moon will be 229,731 miles away or 369,716 kilometers.

Although the mountain is perking all the time, a chart of the major eruptions at Turrialba seems to support the conclusions of the  O'Mearas. Four of six significant eruptions took place between the full moon and the lunar perigee. That theory suggests that a major eruption might take place sometime between June 2 and 9.

The  O'Mearas probably would be the first to say that eruptions are the result of many factors. Gravitational influences are probably just a part of the puzzle.



Museo Nacional plans welcome home exhibition
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The Museo Nacional plans to open an exhibition Wednesday to display pre-Colombian pieces that have been recovered from private hands and even from the garbage.

The welcome home exhibition runs until October. The 90 pieces include ceramics, jade and stone. The exhibition is called “El retorno de lo nuestro.”

The museum said that each of the pieces have a long history relating to their recovery. Costa Rican consulates were key players in some recoveries, the museum said.

Under Costa Rican law, such items belong to the government even if they are found on private property. Some pieces were confiscated from person leaving the country.

A metate, a small table for grinding grain, turned up in a garbage container perhaps because the holder was afraid of legal repercussions, said the museum.

Museum officials have been in the news confiscating archaeological objects from private homes. Many Costa Rican homeowners have family collections, and some pre-date the law giving the government possession.

Objects were obtained in Houston, Texas, Tucson, Arizona, Washington, D.C., Miami, Florida, Los Angeles, California, Canada, Spain, France and Italy, the museum said.

Even though some pieces have been in museum hands for some time, none has been

owl
Museo Nacional photo
The museum said it recovered this owl from the United States.

exhibited previously, the announcement said. Some are very large, it added.

The more spectacular pieces probably are the product of the Guanacaste culture where the descendants of pre-Colombian residents continue to make ceramics for export. They use many of the same molds and clay deposits that have been used for centuries.

Costa Rican ceramics were used in the Mayan and Valley of México cultures.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission for Costa Ricans is 1,500 colons, about $3. Foreigners pay $8. Sunday is a free day for Costa Ricans and legal residents, the museum noted.


 
Cacore graphic
veteran's clinic
Manuel antnio home
Altos
Luna Nueva
Palermo

Today's
colon
exchange rate
HERE!
Search 
our site
Subscribe
to our  daily digest
Real estate
ads
Classified 
ads
Contact
us
Tourism and services Display
ad info
Classified
ad info

Airline
flights

Colonial


Sportmen
Residency

rss graphic
Twitter link
facebook logo

Have you seen our crossword puzzle?

HERE!

Retirement title ad


association of residents

 Page 2 is HERE!      Page 3 is  HERE!      Page 4 is HERE!          
Page 5 is HERE!   Page 6 is HERE!    Page 7 is HERE!
       Opinion is HERE!         Classifieds are HERE!

NEXT
PAGE


What we published this week: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Earlier
Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
The contents of this Web site are copyrighted by Consultantes Río Colorado S.A. 2015 and may not be reproduced anywhere without permission.
Abstracts and fair use are permitted.  Check HERE for more details





A.M. Costa Rica's
 
Second news page


San José, Costa Rica, Tuesday, May 26, 2015, Vol. 15, No. 102

Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us



DelRey 300
Professional Directory
A.M. Costa Rica's professional directory is where business people who wish to reach the English-speaking community may invite responses. If you are interested in being represented here, please contact the editor.

Hearing Services

Dinamarca
Clínica Dinamarca Hearing Center
Audiometry – Impedance
Hearing aids
Batteries & accessories
Electronic laboratory
Earplugs: Loud noise & swimming
Cochlear implants
Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA)
Free hearing tests for Senior Citizens on Wednesdays
We accept hearing aids prescriptions from C.C.S.S.
For the US veterans we can help with the procedures

Address: 250 meters south from KFC Paseo Colón, San José,
Costa Rica
Phone: (506) 2221-4545
(506) 2221-4646
Web: www.clinicadinamarca.com
Follow us on Facebook click here.
8691-8/19/15
Dinamarca logo

Optometry

Del Valle Visual Eyes Optometry
in  San Isidro del General

10% Discount on all our contact lens brands and solutions - Valid thru May 31.
Del Valley
Del Valle Visual Eyes Optometry has been a leader provider of advanced eye care services, eyewear, contact lenses, low vision devices and professional attention.  The preferred provider of quality vision care products and personalized optometric services to our patients in Pérez Zeledón in a comfortable and friendly environment since 2007.
Centro Comercial Pedro Pérez, south side of the park, San Isidro del General, Pérez Zeledón,
San José, Costa Rica.
Contact: Dr. Allan Mora Vargas
Email: info@opticasdelvalle.com
Web: www.opticasdelvalle.com
Phone Number: (506) 2772-0349
8620-6/2/15

Psychotherapy

Dr. Gray

Dr. Lucinda Gray

California Licensed
Psychologist
International Practice

www.LucindaGray.com
New World Meditation

CR (506) 2228-2041
8610-8/23/15

Insurance professionals

The Garrett Insurance Group
Garrett
-Brokerage fully licensed by the
      government.
-Experience since 1980.
-Bilingual English/Spanish.
-Represent all the best insurance
       companies in Costa Rica,
       BMI, Blue Cross, Blue
       Shield, ASSA, INS, etc.
-Correspondents of WILLIS.
-Connections in all of Central
       America.
-Superb communications.
-Prize-winning Web site.
-English policy extracts.
-Helps you settle your claims.
Centro Comercial El Pueblo, Local #125, San José, Costa Rica.    Phone:  ( 506 ) 2233-9520
E-mail : info@garrettbrokers.com
More information HERE!
4/12/15

Residency experts

Residency in Costa Rica
A full service immigration agency
U.S. and San José offices
Getting and authenticating documents can be a chore. —

We know how to do it. Experienced with many nationalities. Up-to-date on
Costa Rica's evolving immigration law.

Pensionado and rentista. Your first stop for smooth, professional service and a positive experience. Javier Zavaleta javier@residencyincostarica.com
www.residencyincostarica.com
Tel: (323) 255-6116
8688-9/16/15

 Accountants

Ms. Summers
Marlene B. Summers
U.S. Income Tax Services
Marlene B. Summers
Tax Accountant
 
Personalized Service
I will treat your return as I would my own
20 years experience
Competitive rates

Phone (506) 2289-6590 or (506) 8750-2316
8636-6/18/15

U.S. Tax International
Plus Costa Rican taxes, accounting, and legal
 services. Over 15 years in Costa Rica

U.S. Tax rollover
(English spoken). Tamarindo office hours now available.  If you or anyone you know would like an appointment in Tamarindo, please call our San José office at 2288-2201 to make an appointment.
Contact Us:
 U.S 786-206-9473         CR 506-2288-2001
FAX: 506 2231-3300
E-mail: ustax@lawyer.com
Web page: www.ustaxinternational.com
8635-9/12/15

James Brohl, C.P.A. & M.B.A.
US Income Tax,  U.S. GAAP Accounting
& Business Consulting
S
pecializing in all matters of concern to U.S. taxpayers residing abroad including:
Uncle
                                              Sam's
IRS filing requirements of foreign income tax exclusion (up to $100,800 for 2015).
Past-due tax returns: Taxpayers filing before an IRS notice do not face criminal sanctions.
Reporting foreign financial assets: FBAR and foreign corporations.
Up-to-date FACTA news.
All US Tax return preparation:
individual, business, estate and trust.
eFile returns: secure with faster refunds.
Business consulting to facilitate working in Costa Rica.

Telephone 8305-3149 or 2256-8620
E-mail jrtb_1999@yahoo.com
9654-4/6/16


Legal services

Real Estate Closing Services
Lic Matta

Lic. Pablo Mata Ferreto, MBA.

Legal – Financial Adviser

Real Estate and Business Transactions

Avoid Real Estate scams, get independent advice and have due diligence performed before signing or making a deposit.

Phone number: (506) 8853-0000
Email: jpmata2000@gmail.com
8587-3/8/15


Dentistry

Marco Cavallini & Associates
Dental Implants and Crowns

Dr. Marco A. Muñoz Cavallini has placed and
DR. Cavallini
Dr. Marco A. MuÏoz Cavallini
restored over 17,000 dental implants since 1980. The Dr. Marco Muñoz Cavallini Dental Clinic, is recognized as one of the best practices in Dental Reconstruction, Dental Implant placement and Cosmetic Dentistry in Costa Rica and the World. For more information, visit us today at: marcomunozcavallini.com
8365-5/12/15


Land surveying services

René Sánchez Quirós
30+ years of experience in:

Mr. Sanchez
Survey (cadastral) maps
Subdivisions
Contours
Boundary markers
Calculations of terrain

Call me:
CR phone number:   +506-2290-4573
CR Cell phone number: +506-8383-0083
Email:  ojoche01@gmail.com       
6887-7/27/15


Real estate agents and services

Ms. Gonzalez
Noemy González
Real Estate Adviser
Bienes Inmuebles CR.com

 
We are a real estate company specializing in prompt & effective attention for you. English, Spanish & Italian spoken. Professionals in the sale of properties such as commercial premises, homes & apartments through our advertising & marketing services.
Vision: Making realty dreams a reality.
Mission: Your #1 property adviser with real value in a changing world.
Logo
Address: Cariari, Heredia, Costa Rica.
Local phone (506) 2239-3883
Mobile (506) 8302-3883
E-mail : noe@bienesinmueblescr.com
Web: www.bienesinmueblescr.com
8680-8/6/15

CENTURY 21 JACÓ BEACH REALTY
Century
                                                          21

A Name You Trust, Professionalism You Deserve
Tom Ghormley and the dream team!
Owner/Broker
in CR since 1979

Buying? Selling? Renting?
We Can Do It!
Let us help you live your dreams!
Beachfront, Views, Mountains,
Beaches, Houses, Condos,
Hotels, Restaurants, Projects,
Commercial, Investments and more

 Century 21 Jacó Beach Realty
Playa Jacó, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
U. S. A. phone numbers:  (213) 283-5168 
or Toll Free: (877) 746-3868
Costa Rica phone number: (506) 2643-3356
Email: info@c21jaco.com
Web: www.c21jaco.com
8569-1/14/16

CR Beach
Jaco Beach Central Pacific Real Estate
 CR Beach Investment Real Estate Broker & INT’L NAR certified Realtor Jeff Fisher invites you to see why the time is TODAY, NOT 3 YEARS FROM NOW, to buy at discounted prices.
#1: SJO Int'l Airport & S.J. suburbs are little more than one hour away.
#2: The Jacó area has everything you need, from
 
Fisher
Jeff  Fisher
    HMO free to KFC, from zip lines, to $3 breakfast lines. from a movie house to a 1/2 priced art house.
#3: BUYERS' MARKET: Prices still dropping BUT sales are now happening!       
  
JACÓ AREA SUPER DEALS & DISCOUNT  
OR A HUGE PRICE DROP
  ON THIS COMMERCIAL LISTING,

Yes after 21 years,  we know Costa Rica and we still love most the Central Pacific! Member of the N.A.R., the Costa Rican Real Estate Board CRGAR and the Central Pacific Chamber of Commerce.
SIGN UP FOR OUR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER:

www.CRbeach.com    info@crbeach.com
Toll Free: 1-888-782-1119 or  2643-4334, 2643-3672
Over 9 years in  our JACÓ Office:
IL Galeone Center by BAC, #14, Costa Rica
8666-7/6/15

Costa Rica's first realtor specialized
in eco properties, eco consulting and green living.

Eco logo
   • Specialized in the Central and South Pacific.
   • Great network of realtors, to find your dream
          property
   • Homes, condominium & luxury homes
   • Eco lodges and Hotels
   • Green properties and waterfalls
   • Farms and developments
   • Sustainable and green living communities.
   • Property management in the Jacó area

www.ecorealtorscr.com    info@ecorealtorscr.com
Telephone: +506 2643-4065   
cell: +506 8825-6556   US:  626 548-3909
skype: ecorealtorscr  Facebook: ecorealtorscr
In front of Subway at Plaza Herradura, Jacó
Green NAR designee, member of the CCBR, CRGAR
8660-10/14/15

Jim Day, representing Colinas del Sol
del Pacifico, S.A.

colinadelsol022515c.gif
* Colinas del Sol is a fenced and gated project  in a quiet area.
* There are 88 clear titled lots.
* Mountain areas with great views.
* Gently sloping level areas ideal for hobby farms, gardening, fruit tree orchards.
* Quiet place to get away from the busy city and beach crowds.
* All lots have gravel roads to them, water and electricity at each.
* Lots are 5,000 sq. meters or larger, starting at only $39,000 USD , and many can be combined for those wanting a larger area for their chosen passion, be it a hobby horse farm or retirement haven.
* Located in Libertad, Guanacaste, Northwest Pacific area of Costa Rica.
* 20 minutes to the Liberia International Airport
* 15 minutes to the Pacific Beaches
* 10 minutes to Medical Facilities
* 25 minutes to the Liberia Hospital
* 5 minutes to Papagayo  Golf & Country Club
Contact Jim Day
Email:  JimDay50@aol.com 
or Phone:  001 517 484-3675.
Click Here: www.colinasdelsolcr.com
8596-8/27/15

Pococi bridge
Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes photo           
Some pedestrians avoid bridges like this one in Pococí

Police fault some pedestrian errors

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Of the 23 highway deaths of pedestrians this year, 17 of the victims did something rash, said the  Policía de Tránsito.

The police agency issued a warning Monday after a weekend that saw three such deaths.

Part of the problem is the reluctance of some pedestrians to use the expensive bridges have have been constructed so they can cross busy multi-lane highways.

A favorite pastime of television camera operators is to video pedestrians tempting fate by crossing a busy highway in the shadow of a pedestrian bridge.

The traffic police issued typical suggestions such as wearing bright or reflective clothing and to walk facing the traffic.

Particularly in rural areas, the highway is the preferred path and there are few sidewalks or even shoulders for pedestrians.

Police also noted that nine of the dead pedestrians had ingested alcohol.


U.S. citizens urged to file IRS bank report

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

U.S. citizens who have had an aggregate amount of $10,000 in foreign bank accounts last year are supposed to file with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service by June 30.

That word comes from  U.S. Tax and Accounting, which specialized in handling tax reports for U.S. citizens.

The document is the  Report of Foreign Bank Accounts, known as FBAR.

"Unlike a tax return deadline, there is no extension for the FBAR deadline," said the firm in a release. "While the treasury department does not always assess the maximum fines, a late filed FBAR can legally be subject to a $10,000 fine."

The company noted that the rules also apply to resident aliens in the United States.

The $10,000 figure is the threshold for the year even if that amount was only in the accounts for a day.


Chinese food safety inspection team visits
                                                                                           
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

A Chinese team is in the country to study the inspection system of the  Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal.

Costa Rica already exports milk products and beef to China. Officials hope for approval to export other products.

The team will be in the country until June 3, said the animal health service.

Among other locations, the team will inspect the service's labs. Also due for inspection are fish farms, processing plants and slaughter houses, said the service.

Officials hope that the team will issue a certification to the country.


Post reporter's trial begins in Iran

By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

The espionage trial of Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian began today in Iran with the proceedings closed to the public.

The state-run IRNA news agency said the trial was being held in a Revolutionary Court, which typically hears cases involving national security.

Rezaian was arrested last July and held for months in Iran's notorious Evin prison without being charged or allowed to visit with a lawyer.  He has since been allowed one brief meeting with a lawyer and charged with spying and propaganda.

Rezaian's brother, Ali, says authorities are holding the trial behind closed doors not for security reasons, but because they know they have no evidence.

"Trying to make a case that there is some kind of security reason that the trial should be closed is absolutely ridiculous," he said.  "It's absolutely unfounded. I think the only reason you could possibly imagine that the trial would be closed would be to prevent people from seeing the lack of evidence."

The Washington Post and the U.S. State Department have repeatedly called for Rezaian's release, saying he did nothing wrong in his work as a reporter.

Washington Post Executive Editor Martin Baron called Iran's treatment of Rezaian shameful acts of injustice.

"There is no justice in this system, not an ounce of it," Baron wrote Monday. "And yet the fate of a good innocent man hangs in the balance. Iran is making a statement about its values in its disgraceful treatment of our colleague, and it can only horrify the world community."


Then there is good mobile hygiene

By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

A great deal has been written over the years about the necessity of computer users to be proactive if they want to guard their privacy and keep their machines clean of viruses. Habits such as changing passwords, updating software, running anti-virus and using encryption when possible are often referred to as good web hygiene.

But as the use of mobile phones and other devices has skyrocketed, users often have failed to transfer these precautions to the mobile digital environment, leaving millions vulnerable.

This was put on display in the fall of 2014 during the Occupy Central protests in Hong Kong, as Chinese hackers flooded protestors' phones with a variety of malware.

Some phone manufacturers have stepped in to fill the security gap.

For example, Apple now automatically offers end-to-end encryption for iMessage and FaceTime, as well as offering a range of other encryption services and applications.

But most security analysts say these steps aren’t enough, and that mobile phone and tablet users around the world need to step up and take more responsibility for keeping themselves safe and secure in the wireless world. The first step is with the device itself.

The latest versions of the world’s three most common mobile operating systems, Google’s Android, Apple’s iOS and Microsoft’s Windows Phone, already offer complete encryption as an option. It’s activated in different ways, but common to all is that users create a passcode they must enter every time they power up or unlock their phones.

Once encryption is enabled and tied to the passcode, all data on the device will be encrypted and unreadable without the passcode.

This means it’s important for users to choose a code that will be sufficiently challenging to crack. A simple four-digit code is practically meaningless. A 15-character code that uses digits, upper- and lower-case letters and symbols would be magnitudes harder to break.

Users should also be careful when and where they download apps or document attachments. Applications downloaded from Apple’s iTunes or Google’s Play Store are generally fairly secure, but downloading from other services can be an iffy proposition. As always, it’s not a good idea to download any email attachments that have not been sought specifically.

Anti-virus packages are available for mobile phones, but security analysts are roughly split on whether they would be required for the majority of phones. What is recommended, however, is for users to install some sort of remote-wipe application, which would allow a user to remotely erase all the phone’s data in case it’s stolen.

Mobile phones traditionally connect to the world by two means: wireless phone service for actual phone use and a wireless local area network, or WLAN, for Internet and data. Tablets mostly just use a WLAN. Both the phone service and WLAN use provide potential security holes, but many of those can be mitigated.

First, when connecting to a WLAN using WiFi, users should choose their service carefully. In crowded urban environments, it’s not uncommon for phones to sniff out 20 or more WiFi services with decent signal strength. If possible, users should only connect to secure WiFi services. These are denoted by a locked padlock icon and require some type of password to access.

Free, open WiFi services, those available to anyone without any passcode,  should be avoided if at all possible. It’s simply too easy for a bad guy on open WiFi to break into others also online and create havoc.

Text messages (SMS), which are transmitted via the phone service, are relatively (but not completely) secure from infections. But as with actual phone calls, they can be intercepted by third parties.

There are numerous apps available designed to keep text messages private and secure. WhatsApp is one of the most popular around the world, logging around 700 million users worldwide, with more users in India than in any other country.

The app by-passes the mobile phone service, using the Internet to send and receive secure text, photos and video in what it calls chats. Other selling points are its ease of use and low price, costing just $1 a year.

Its parent company, Facebook, says WhatsApp chat sessions are completely secure. However a handful of high-profile security breaches beginning in 2010 have raised concerns among privacy advocates.

For the more security minded, some users have moved to TextSecure, an open-source text encryption app produced by Whisper Systems, a data security company endorsed by no less than former NSA contractor Edward Snowden. It offers end-to-end encryption for users running TextSecure for text, audio, video, and images.

Whisper Systems engineers say that in addition to robust encryption, the app offers a user verification system to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.

Whisper Systems also has an app for securing mobile phone calls. Called RedPhone, the app was aimed at first specifically for people who live under repressive governments that routinely tap and monitor phone calls.

RedPhone uses the Internet for end-to-end encryption of real-time two-way voice conversations between two RedPhone users. Additionally, two matching words appear on both phones during the call, allowing the users themselves to verify a secure, encrypted connection. RedPhone has proven to be very popular in a number of nations, including Venezuela and Egypt.

Another popular application, Ostel, is an outgrowth of the Guardian Project, a cooperative venture to develop applications that secure users’ privacy. Like RedPhone, Ostel uses Voice over Internet Protocol for end-to-end encryption between Ostel users. An additional benefit is that there are no costs for long-distance or international calls.

Finally, for users who want proven Internet security for their mobile Android device and don’t mind giving away a little speed of access, there’s Orbot. Essentially Tor for mobile, it’s just like its online counterpart, routing all text, Internet and email data through a randomized series of computers.

Like Tor, Orbot offers users some of the strongest privacy protection to be found – but it comes at a cost. Because the user’s data is being routed through a shifting set of nodes on the Tor network, Orbot can significantly slow down uploads and downloads. It’s not for everyone, but for those who want to remain as anonymous as possible, it’s just about the best bet available.


Have you seen these stories?
From A.M. Costa Rica












Top story news feeds are disabled on archived pages.















 
From our retirement guide
















Retirement tips news feeds are diabled on archived pages.














news paper flag

Del Rey

Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
What we published this week: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Earlier
The contents of this Web site are copyrighted by Consultantes R­o Colorado S.A 2015 and may not be reproduced anywhere without permission. 
Abstracts and fair use are permitted.  Check HERE for details
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             



A.M. Costa Rica

Third News Page

San José, Costa Rica, Tuesday, May 26, 2015, Vol. 15, No. 102
Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
 
Already wet Caribbean and northern zone expected to get more rain
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The national weather service said that rains would intensify overnight on the Caribbean coast and the northern zone. The Caribbean in particular has been hit hard by heavy rains with some families flooded out.

Some shelters have been opened by the national emergency commission and its local representatives.

The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional said that there were early evening electrical storms on the Pacific coast and in the western part of the northern zone. The weather agency

estimated rainfall at from 11 to 24 millimeters within 12 hours. That's a bit less than half an inch to an inch.

On the Caribbean coast and the northern zone, rainfall of from 30 to 60 millimeters, 1.2 to 2.4 inches, was predicted early today with rain continuing for the rest of the day.

The weather agency said that rivers have been rising along the Caribbean coast and at Barra del Colorado in the northeaster part of the country.

The Central Valley probably will see rain but in modest proportion today. The rain is the result of a low pressure system.


 
Flurry of thefts prompts campaign


By the A.M. Costa Rica staff


The Fuerza Pública said that sports events are easy picking for crooks.

Law enforcement began a campaign with the final of the national soccer championship because there have been a flurry of thefts of cell telephones at a prior sports event.

The agency said that the excitement of the game causes fans to take their eyes off their possessions. After one semi-final game, police received 30 complaints of stolen cell telephones, they said.

Reports are not in yet about the thefts at the weekend final game at the  Estadio Rosabal Cordero in Heredia, but police had 250 officers on duty.

They have created a cartoon graphic for the campaign.

cell telephone guy
Ministerio de Seguridad Pública graphic
This is the cell telephone guy.


Ministry reports that 67 percent of festival activities took place
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The culture ministry reported Monday that 67 percent of the activities planned for the Festival International de las Artes took place.

The ministry said that 341 events were planned and that 227 took place. However, some of the events were put on in scaled-down versions.

The ministry is now under the control of  Sylvie Durán, who was named in the wake of firings of key staffers after the collapse of the festival, which had been planned for Aserrí, Acosta, AlajuelitaAlajuelita, Desamparados and the Centro Nacional de la Cultura downtown.

There were many problems relating to the festival, which is
why Elizabeth Fonseca, the former minister, no longer is a government employee. A big problem was the inability to execute a contract for sound and lights due to administrative errors. But a report outlined communication problems, too.

The Ministerio de Cultura y Juventud also said Monday that an office is being set up for those who have issues with the festival. However, the report said that about 339 million colons, some $645,000, already had been paid for artists who were contracted for the festival.

That appears to be about three quarters on the amount owned.

The ministry said that the arts festival cost 646 million colons, about $1.23 million. Some 91 percent of the money was budgeted for artist and presenters, said the ministry.

You need to see Costa Rican tourism information HERE!

Del Rey nighlife

Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
What we published this week: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Earlier
The contents of this Web site are copyrighted by Consultantes Río Colorado S.A. 2015 and may not be reproduced anywhere without permission. 
Abstracts and fair use are permitted.  Check HERE for details



Fish Fabulous Costa Rica
Del Rey340x218
A.M. Costa Rica's Fourth News page
San José, Costa Rica, Tuesday, May 26, 2015, Vol. 15, No. 102
Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us

Obesity campaigns run into the vested interest of food marketers
By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

For the last 15 years, Plymouth, England has held a symposium on obesity. It’s estimated that more than half the city’s adults are overweight or obese. The rest of Britain is not fairing much better. But what’s happening in the U.K. can also be seen the U.S. and many Western countries and a growing number of developing nations. One obesity expert said it’s a long term problem that is very difficult to solve

“No one health issue has the most impact on human health, or engenders more debate about how to tackle it, than obesity,” said Jonathan Pinkney, a professor of endocrinology and diabetes. He took part in the annual Plymouth symposium Thursday.

He said obesity is a complex issue that involves more than calorie intake.

“I personally feel that this is such a wide field. There are so many issues. There’s politics. There’s biology. There’s everything you can imagine. There’s the food industry. And I think that sometimes we’re all a bit guilty of just maybe concentrating on one of those areas. And you can go to a conference anywhere in the world where they spend days just talking about bariatric surgery or fizzy drinks. So, I think it’s right to talk about everything under one umbrella.”

Bariatric surgery restricts how much food a person can eat, sharply reducing caloric intake.

The professor gave his definition of obesity as “when body size becomes so huge that it impairs people’s day-to-day function and quality of life and well-being and personal relationships. Yeah, that’s kind of devastating. That tends to occur at a higher level of body weight.”

However, Pinkney said those not considered technically obese are also at high risk for poor health.

“That’s the more important point for the health of the population. You know, all the diabetes and heart attacks and cancers and things. I mean that’s really caused by lower levels of weight gain. As you can see, it’s just the average weight of the population drifting up because we’re just sort of eating the wrong things and not really sufficiently active,” he said.

The Plymouth symposium showed that much is known about the biology of the brain and appetite control. But Pinkney said, as one speaker pointed out, knowledge is not enough.

“That is completely overridden by things going on around us in the environment: food advertising – food Industry -- the way that it’s all marketed to everybody, including children. And I think the simple fact of the matter is, you know, our bodies are very smart and beautifully built. But it’s just that the biological systems that would keep us slim are just completely swept away by the pressure from the things going on around us,” he said.

And he said it’s difficult to do anything about it whether in Britain, the U.S. or developing countries

“There’s a multinational food industry and there’s huge vested interest in selling a lot of the stuff. I can’t give you a magic word as to how you crack this, but we’ve got exactly the same problem here. And I think you can prescribe all the drugs you want. You can do all the bariatric surgery you could manage to fund, but it’s not going to crack the problem unless you stop the development of the epidemic at source,” said Pinkney.

Going to the source means how eating habits are formed. Poor eating habits can be a learned behavior passed down by parents to their children.

“I think a lot of things start very early in life. You know, it’s difficult to break the habits of a lifetime, isn’t it? I think we all find that. But I think our health and our prospects for the future are kind of laid down fairly early. And I think that’s not surprising. Big kids often have big parents. I think they learn this at an early stage,” he said.

Solving the problem, he said, is a lot harder than simply trying to encourage prevention.

“There isn’t a kind of medical way to prevent the problem. It really does look as if it’s down to politics, policy, marketing, food industry and preventing children from being exposed to all of this. And I think that’s the toughest thing that we face in the world. It’s very, very difficult.”

Pinkney said too many unrefined carbohydrates – sugars – are to blame for much of the obesity epidemic. He said that they don’t satisfy a person’s hunger for long and people eat their next meal sooner.

“Commercially produced processed food with large amounts of carbohydrate – sweeteners, short acting carbohydrate – and it just sets us up to fail. And I think there are big problems with carbohydrate in the Western diet,” he said.

While it may be difficult to foster better eating habits, Pinkney said there is precedent for large scale behavior change.

“Other things have changed. I mean one really interesting thing, I think, was what’s happened over cigarette smoking. And how people complained about not being able to smoke in pubs and restaurants and have to go outside. But it didn’t take very long for that to translate into clear health benefit. So, you know, maybe you can get these things through in time, little by little,” he said.

Some lessons, he said, can be learned from our hunter-gatherer ancestors.

“The hunter-gatherers going right back to last Ice Age and before that would have had a diet that was rich in complex, sort of, fiber kind of carbohydrate. There would be protein in it now and again. But it didn’t have all the sugar. So, the diet that is, of course, followed by traditional peoples is radically different.”

He said studies of indigenous peoples, who returned to their traditional diets, “took a step back from modern health problems.”

Pinkney says a combination of prevention methods, medical interventions and political will be needed to stop the obesity epidemic.

In the U.S. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported over 35 percent of adults – or nearly 79 million people – are obese. More 17 million children were obese.

The annual medical cost of obesity in the U.S. is nearly $200 million.

Vacation, travel and hospitality


tourism
                        in osa

Adventures in Costa Rica are awaiting you.
The Villas De Oros is a jungle paradise with the whole of the Osa within your reach, plus many local activities. Our five villas and suites are unique, sleeping between  two or four guests. They were built to reflect a love and respect for nature. We are happy to serve a wide variety of travelers, families, couples on romantic escapes and adventures seekers. We are near beautiful beaches, many national parks, fine dining and local fare. We are a small hotel, but we will do all we can to help make arrangements for you to insure your adventure of a lifetime!  Please let us know if you will need help with transportation arrangements and what tours you are interested in. Our moderately priced accommodations give you the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding jungle. With river and ocean views as well as an abundance of wildlife, you are sure to enjoy your stay. All four villas have kitchen facilities, two with full inside kitchens and three with mini-kitchens on the balconies overlooking the jungle. We are frequented almost daily by monkeys, macaws, toucans, iguanas, and many other fascinating creatures of Costa Rica. See more at  www.villasdeoros.com  
506-2786-5170 in Costa Rica     303-719-0151 in U.S.
8669-xxx

Mar de
                        Luz
Hotel Mar de Luz
Designed for families to provide peaceful & ecologically balanced environment, where all can enjoy healthy & pollution free stay. Built in harmony with nature & were used to reflect a subtropical atmosphere. Main source of energy is sunlight, converted by solar panels on the roofs. High quality services at a reasonable cost allowing guests to enjoy dream holiday at an attractive rate. Come and enjoy a great vacation. Comfortable accommodation, personalized services and quality amenities. Cosy rooms, breakfast, pools, architectural design, surrounded by lush vegetation in beautiful tropical gardens with coconut, almond, etc. Address : Jacó  beach, next to Subway Restaurant, Avenida Pastor Díaz, Costa Rica. Local phone (506) 2643-3000. Email: info@mardeluz.com.  Web page: www.mardeluz.com.

Hotel
                        Playa Bejuco
Hotel Boutique Playa Bejuco
Cozy, opened in 2007 just 90 minutes from the capital, with good access. Go shopping or enjoy the evening entertainment. Hosting services, friendly, quality and comfortable, discreet under the concept of 100 percent family hotel, the reason we do not allow or endorse any activity related to prostitution or drugs. Natural beauty, recommended for tourists for a relaxing holiday. Nearby is Manuel Antonio National Park. Tours, canopy, fishing, rainforest, horseback riding, ATV, rafting, etc. 20 deluxe rooms equipped with 3 for disabled. All with air conditioning, cable TV, telephone, refrigerator, private bathroom, hot water, free wireless Internet, etc. Maximum 5 people. Main restaurant, pools (adults & children), jacuzzi, private parking, 24 hours security, pool bar, playground equipped. At front desk currency conversions, confirm your flight or coordinate tours. Address : Playa Bejuco, Esterillos, Costa Rica. Local phone (506) : 2779-2000. Email: info@hotelplayabejuco.com   Web page www.hotelplayabejuco.com.
8665-10/24/15

experience Costa Rica
Costa Rica Travel In Paradise Group Tours

Looking for easy booking process for a smooth Costa Rica trip?   We customize wonderful trips to Costa Rica.  We offer you our wealth of knowledge for a great experience . . . a trip of a lifetime!!!

* FAMILY VACATIONS. Our travels take into account the different ages of your family enjoy the most from your Family vacations. Click HERE!

* GROUP TOURS. Whether for a church group, couple of friends, Scout troop or a family group. We provide excellent quality service in your Group Tours. Click HERE!

* EDUCATIONAL TOURS. Tours for universities to schools to elementary schools. We have professionals to help you discover the secrets of Costa Rica in a fun way. Costa Rica Educational Tours. Click HERE!

* GUIDED TOURS. General holiday planning giving you the best value for your investment Costa Rica vacation Packages. Click HERE!

Contact Us:
International Phone: 1-800-9010-114
CR Local Phone: 011-506 -2274-3231
Email: jose@mycostaricatravel.com
Web: www.mycostaricatravel.com

Anywhere
  Get Help Planning Your Adventure Vacation in Costa Rica.
  100% Personalized Vacation Planning Service.
Click HERE!
8644-3/16/16

Howard book
Want to live in Costa Rica?
Read this book!


1,000s have benefited from 17 editions
with its insider information
and time-tested tips
700 carefully researched pages  

Written by Christopher Howard,
Costa Rica's #1 retirement expert
with 35 years experience helping people.
Click HERE!
8577-2/15/15

PRIMO'S SUEŇO CABINAS
La Fortuna
Comfort of your home in the campo, 5 minutes from Fortuna Centro of San Carlos, in the shadow of Volcano Arenal, Flat screen TV, AC, refrigerator, free coffee. Local area activities like four-wheeling, horse riding, zip lining, hot springs, jungle walking tours. Bring your camera for great photos of nature, fishing and swimming, canyoning and wireless internet. Harry Hart, proprietor.  Call for reservations  (506) 2479-8670   and (506) 8682-9219  Email: lagringo2003@yahoo.com
8492-4/1/15

Howard
                        rollover
Will Costa Rica Retirement Work For You?
Find out for yourself on Live In Costa Rica Tours

When you visit Costa Rica, you'll want to discover what you need to know to  make the right choice about moving to this tropical paradise.  Our familiarization tours have won hard-earned credentials that prove general excellence and the right focus.  These are the only retirement tours that are licensed and approved by the Costa Rican government and tourism institute  (ICT). In 2006 we were featured on the NBC Today Show and World News.  In 2010, we won the  prestigious Latin America-Asia Travel Excellence Award for the Best and Most Unique Tour in Latin America.

   * Discover how to make the right choices about moving here
   * Find out how to live affordably
   * See how other expats live. Meet other expats who have made
          the move.
   * Access the country's affordable health care system
   * Informative two-day seminar given by local experts in their
          relevant fields.
   * Tours led by Christopher Howard, 34-year resident, citizen,
          and the author of "The New Golden Door to Retirement
          and  Living in Costa Rica – the Official Guide to Relocation”
 
Click HERE  to learn all about our Association of Residents (ARCR)  approved tours at www.liveincostarica.com
8479-9/11/14

Hidden
                        Garden
Largest art gallery in Guanacaste
Drop in to see some of Costa Rica's finest art
at the largest gallery in Guanacaste.

The Hidden Garden Art Gallery near the Liberia airport is a great place to find quality remembrances of Costa Rica to take home or to decorate your home or office in Costa Rica.  We also offer commissioned pieces so you can create your own unique masterpiece to cherish forever.  With more than 60 artists on exhibit and fine art in 15 rooms full of paintings, prints, sculptures, and diverse artistic expressions, we are easy to locate just 5 kms west of the Daniel Oduber International Airport. Visit our Web site at
or contact us by email:
HiddenGarden@TheVanStoneGroup.com.   
Gallery hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tel. 2667-0592 / 8386-6872; U.S. telephone 702-953-7073. International shipping available.
8623-6/16/15

diligence
Click photo for another video

The Relocation/Retirement tour with the
 *HIGHEST SUCCESS RATE
OF RELOCATION*

 (as reported by the moving companies)
Visit many rental options to actually experience the price/amenity options available in more of the areas chosen by Expats for security, comfort, and quality of life.

Meet many Expats who are willing to share their experiences and how the tour has value long after the “lust” wears off.
See how to choose a Retirement tour video by past guest!
http://www.vimeo.com/5656822

Ask the others what you get for your money, and then compare the quality of accommodations, quality, quantity and variety of food and drink to measure the best value for your money. 

Learn how others “talk the talk” and learn who really can “walk the walk”

Please visit my Web site  to contact my references.
George Lundquist, retirement, relocation columnist, Guide & Developer/Builder. lundquistgeorge@gmail.com

8390-10/2/14

Here's reasonable medical care
Costa Rica's world class medical specialists are at your command. Get the top care for much less than U.S. prices. It is really a great way to spend a vacation. See our list of recommended professionals HERE!amcr-prom



Need a book about Costa Rica?


Check out our special selections available at Amazon logo

HERE!

A.M. Costa Rica
Real estate rentals
Real estate rental agents
Real estate for rent
Business
wanted
Real estate wanted

Real estate rental services (paid category)

beach
                                              view
The vacation homes at Manuel Antonio Estates offers luxury, comfort and peace of mind. We have numerous homes from 2 bedrooms to 8 bedrooms ocean view with private pool,  all within walking distance of the town’s shops and restaurants and just a few minutes to the best beaches and the famous Manuel Antonio national park. While the homes are secluded and hidden among the rainforest, the surrounding area offers adventures like zip lines, whitewater rafting, mangrove kayaking and many more. All of the homes are available for short-term rentals, Fully equipped, Pool, concierge,  parking, cable TV, and Internet. We are happy to assist with all your need for the perfect Costa Rican vacation, Call us for your family vacation package.
TOLL FREE: 1800 346=9724 or (506) 2777-3339     
 http://www.manuelantonioestates.com/properties_for_rent.html
8613-6/24/15

Real estate for rent (paid category)
Lemur
Apartment Lemur del Bosque for rent
San Francisco de Dos Ríos, El Bosque, furnished 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment, quiet area, free cable TV, WiFi, large patio area, swimming pool, parking, security. Close to San José. $440/month.   Retired persons prefered. Call 8375-6838. Email:  jorge.jorgejim@gmail.com
8697-7/21/15

luxury
                                                apartment
Furnished apartment for rent  Available Now!
Impeccable newly remodeled villa in Villas de Cariari for rent day, week or month. Rates from US$85 per day. Utilities, washer and dryer, car parking,  24 hour security, Wi-Fi, close to airport and shopping. Long=term and corporate renters are accepted.
Contact: Chris English/Spanish U.S. phone: 1-804-699-8073
Costa Rica phone : (506) 6145-7003 Email: cnpfx@icloud.com
8683-8/11/15

San
                                                Ramon
Mountain home w/million dollar view near San Ramón
Beautiful home in the mountains near San Ramón with 180-degree view of the gulf of Nicoya. 7 miles from San Ramón, 1 mile from Interamericana highway. 3,200 foot elevation so temp is 65 to 75 year around. Electric gate, private drive. house built in 2010. 2 bedrooms, 1 baths, appliances included. High-speed internet installed, Direct TV via sling box on Internet.  Rent per month $750 plus utilities with free internet.  Price for Sale $179,000   Contact Mike: mmpeace@hotmail.com  Check out slide show HERE!
8670-6/30/15

Beautiful 2-bedroom 2-bathroom American-style apartments with an elevator to your front door in a secure building located in Gringo Gulch the American Section of downtown San José. Costa Rica. Located between the Hotel Del Rey, the Hotel Mona Lisa and the Sportsman's Lodge and The Zona Blue (AKA) Little Habana across the street from Harry's Poas Bar, and next to the Holiday Inn.
apartment view
 There are 15 restaurants and American- style bars on this block and four supermarkets within a few blocks. There are 5 casinos within 2 blocks and dozens of hotels around this apartment. Included in your rental price, fast Internet, the best they have in Costa Rica, cable TV with 80 stations, water, washer
 and dryer. All you pay extra for is electricity. You have your own meter and receive a bill from the electric company every month.  This apartment has a American-style hot water system, hot water in both bathrooms and the kitchen. There is a 25-foot balcony to sit on and watch the people in San José walk by. The neighborhood Barrio Amón is the safest in San José For photos and more information contact:  rentnowcr@gmail.com.
8677-6/11/15

Jaco
                                                condo
Condo in Jacó for rent
Two-bedroom, 1-bath condominium available for rent starting June 1st in Corteza del Sol in the Quebrada Seca, just across the Costanera from Jacó. 24-hour security, wifi/cable, AC, luxurious amenities, kitchen includes everything you need to cook, gorgeous pools just steps from your front door. 15 minute walk to town or quick bike ride. ¢2,000 taxi to center of town. Short-term renter is fine. Long-term would be great! Looking for someone low-key who will fit in well with the complex. $950/month including cable & internet, NOT INCLUDING ELECTRIC! Call 8725-0344 or email emilyanneaston@gmail.com
8616-4/9/15

Palmares graphic

Homes for rent in Palmares, Alajuela

See our web page: palmarescostarica.us
8625-5/9/15


Coco
                                                condo
Condo for rent.
Conveniently located just a 200-meter walk to the beach. In the favorite community of Las Palmas, this condo is a perfect vacation home and/or great for vacation rental income.  The condo is located on the 2nd level offering beautiful vaulted ceilings, front and back balcony, pool and mountain view. Screens in every window/door, Air condition in both bedrooms and at living room. The condo is in perfect condition. It has been recently painted and super well-kept, new appliances, fully furnished. Wired to have own washer dryer. It has been the residence of the owners since they built it. Never rented out to third parties. The owners are selling as they are moving to the Central Valley.  The community has a great-size pool and beautiful landscaping and large parking. Just step out your condo and in less than 5-minute walk be swimming in the ocean! A must see! Rate $795 per month. Contact Bob Mobile C.R. ( 506 ) 8392-7520. E-mail: redlclark@aol.com
8602-5/15/15

Tropical Homes of Costa Rica is offering the best selection of vacation homes, condos and long-term rental homes in Playa Flamingo, Playa Potrero and Playa Brasilito on  the Pacific Gold Coast of Guanacaste. A wide selection of private residencies is providing an excellent choice for your stay in this beautiful part of Costa Rica.
tropical
We are offering homes for every budget and every need.
Please visit our Web page at www.tropicalhomesofcostarica.com or contact us at rentals@tropicalhomesofcostarica.com
or call at (506) 2654-5442.
8592-8/18/15




Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
What we published this week: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Earlier
The contents of this Web site are copyrighted by Consultantes Río Colorado S.A. 2015 and may not be reproduced anywhere without permission. 
Abstracts and fair use are permitted.  Check HERE for details



A.M. Costa Rica's   Fifth news page
Family home

cat trees
San José, Costa Rica, Tuesday, May 26, 2015, Vol. 15, No. 102
Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us

Tornado rips through town
on U.S.-Mexican border


By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

A tornado raged for six seconds through a Mexican city along the U.S. border  Monday and killed at least 13 persons and flattening hundreds of homes.

The 250-kilometer-an-hour twister hit Ciudad Acuña at dawn, flinging cars and big-rig trucks into the air and smashing them into houses and buildings in a seven-block area. Rescue workers were searching for survivors in 750 damaged properties.

To the north, in the U.S. state of Texas, searchers continued to look for 12 people believed to have been swept away in flash flooding. The flooding was spawned by a line of storms that stretched from the Gulf of Mexico far northward to the Great Lakes as they moved across the United States.

Already, the flooding has left three persons dead and destroyed at least 400 homes in Texas and the neighboring state to the north, Oklahoma.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott declared an emergency in 24 of the state's counties in addition to 13 others he had named previously.

More than 2,000 people in Texas were forced to evacuate their homes Sunday and Monday.

The storm spawned a tornado in Texas.  Cars and trucks were submerged in the Texas city of San Marcos with the Blanco River reaching levels not seen in nearly a century.

Some San Marcos residents escaped their homes by floating down flooded streets in inflatable lounge chairs.  The city opened emergency shelters to house the flood victims.


Researchers try to learn
why storms grow at night

By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

Most thunderstorms get their incredible energy from the sun’s heat, but some of the storms gain their strength at night, This fact baffles scientists.

To learn how these storms intensify, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration plans to keep 20 of its scientists up late at night for a large intensive field operation in the western Great Plains called the Plains Elevated Convection at Night over the summer months.

According to the agency, soon after sunset Earth and its lower atmosphere tends to lose heat and becomes more stable. These conditions create a less than an ideal environment for supporting thunderstorms.

However, many summer thunderstorms, in the U.S. Great Plains, take shape soon after the sun goes down and sometimes do so without an obvious trigger.
Researchers will gather data with a variety of instruments including weather balloons to learn what triggers large nighttime thunderstorms.

Conrad Ziegler, the project's principal scientist and a research meteorologist for the agency's National Severe Storms Laboratory said that while large nighttime thunderstorms provide an important source of rain for crops, they can also produce widespread and potentially dangerous severe weather, excessive rainfall, flash flooding and unusually frequent cloud-to-ground lightning.

“Weather forecast models often struggle to accurately account for these, said Ziegler in a press release. “The PECAN field campaign will provide us with valuable insights-and improve our ability to save lives and property through more accurate forecasts.”

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says that its scientists along with other investigators, students and support staff from eight research laboratories and 14 universities will gather data with appropriately equipped aircraft, a variety of ground-based instruments, mobile radars and weather balloons before and during nighttime thunderstorms.

Researchers will conduct their field investigation from June 1 to July 15 so that they will be able to better understand just what triggers thunderstorms, what role the atmosphere plays in supporting the storm’s life cycle as well as the impact they have on the lives, property, agriculture and water budget in the Great Plains region.

Meteorologists said they believe that the specially targeted observations will eventually lead to improved forecasts of these potentially damaging storms.


Jets escort passenger flight
that was target of threats

By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

Two U.S. fighter jets escorted an Air France passenger plane to a safe landing in New York Monday morning following one of several threats that were made against commercial aircraft.

An anonymous threat came in a telephone call to a Maryland State police barracks Monday, prompting the military to scramble F-15 jets as Air France Flight 22 from Paris arrived at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. The threat was later deemed not credible and the plane cleared.

Air France said passengers disembarked normally.

News reports also say a threat was made against American Airlines Flight 131, which arrived at the JFK airport from Birmingham, England, but that threat was also considered not credible.

In addition, reports say a Saudi Arabian Airlines flight was checked at JFK due to an unspecified threat, and that threats were also made against at least two flights at Newark Liberty International Airport.

It is not clear if all the threats were made by the same individual.


parade
Voice of America photo    
Marchers carry photos of slain loved ones.

Washington parade honors
living and dead veterans

By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

Every year, on the last Monday in the month of May, millions of Americans  honor the memories of those killed while serving in the armed forces. Memorial Day is a tradition that dates back to the 19th Century.

While many people celebrate the federal holiday with a barbecue and a day off from work, for those who’ve served in the military, it’s a special day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Memorial Day in Washington produced a parade honoring the more than 1 million American men and women who’ve given their lives serving in the military.

“It’s awesome. It’s really exciting. It’s really lively," said Sofia Aman, of Saskatchewan, Canada. "It’s nice to see everybody’s national pride and to remember the veterans.”

“It’s a great day to just show respect for all the soldiers that risk their lives for us on a daily basis,” said Brittany Porter of Washington, D.C.

The crowd of thousands watched as the patriotic display marched along Constitution Avenue.

“I appreciate the freedom that we have in America, and I think that we owe it all to our veterans that have gone before,” said Caroline Kiggins of Alexandria, Virginia.

Rachel Steiner of Fairfax, Virginia, said, "I come from a military family, so it means so much to be here just to honor my parents; honor my grandfathers, uncles and aunts who all served in the military. It’s very meaningful for me.”

“It’s quite an honor here, because as Korean veteran, a lot of people come up and shake hands. It’s great,” said Norb Zahler, a Korean War veteran from Minneapolis.

Others, who had lost friends or family in combat, came to honor the memories of those killed in the line of duty.

“It means a lot to me. I lost a father in Afghanistan back in 2006, so Memorial Day means a lot to me, and it means a lot to others who have lost loved ones overseas, as well,” said Benjamin Supalee, from York, Pennsylvania.

“It means a lot. I remember a lot of my friends that weren’t able . . . did not come home," said Bob Ryan a Vietnam war veteran from Illinois. "It’s a special day to remember. Remember those that serve and remember those that were unable to serve.”

“I love it. It makes me cry. It really does. It’s very emotional,” said Bob Hornbaker, a Navy veteran from Virginia.
 

Islamic State is disrupting
Muslim world with terror


 By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services

For more than a decade, pink and brown buses meandered through Karachi’s chaotic traffic, shuttling passengers between downtown and a neighborhood dominated by Shi'ite Ismailis for a largely uneventful commute. Then on May 13 gunmen boarded one of those buses and killed 43 people — an attack that bodes ill not just for Pakistan, but the broader Muslim world.

Given the rise of the Sunni Muslim militant group Islamic State in the Middle East, Daniel Serwer of the Washington-based Middle East Institute said the attack was not meant for Pakistan alone. He said the militants seeks to stoke sectarian violence in the Islamic world.

A shadowy Sunni Muslim militant group suspected of links with Pakistan’s Taliban militants and Islamic State claimed responsibility for the Karachi attack.

Government and military officials deny the presence of the Islamic State in Pakistan.

But a breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban, led by Shahidullah Shahid, who once acted as spokesman for the main group, recently announced allegiance to the Islamic State.

Graffiti and leaflets promoting the Islamic State have appeared in several Pakistani cities. A band of veiled women, students of a radical Islamic school in the capital, Islamabad, have issued a video in support of  the Islamic State.

May 20, the police chief of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Nasir Khan Durrani, confirmed to reporters that two men had been arrested for allegedly distributing Islamic State pamphlets in a residential neighborhood of Peshawar, the province’s capital.

And in neighboring Afghanistan, an alleged Islamic State recruiter was killed in a drone strike in southern Helmand province. In February, black-clad, mask-wearing assailants kidnapped dozens of Shi'ite ethnic Hazaras in Zabul province.

Last week, more than a dozen abductees were freed in what some reports said was a prisoner swap, but there was no confirmation by Afghan officials.

Islamic militant groups, arching from Nigeria to central and southeast Asia, have forged links with the Islamic State, according to Abdul Basit, a researcher at the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research at Singapore’s Nanyang Technology University.

In an audio message purportedly from Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the Islamic State leader, called on Muslims to join the caliphate he proclaimed in areas of Iraq and Syria.

“There is no excuse for any Muslim” not to join, al-Baghdadi said in the message released May 14.

In its pursuit of setting up an Islamic caliphate, the Islamic State was driven by its purely Sunni ideology, said Serwer.

“There is no sign that the current IS intends to imitate the cosmopolitan, tolerant attitudes of some of the prior caliphs and caliphates,” he said.

Serwer said the group's radical Sunni ideology makes the group disdainful of democracy and Shi'ites.

“The Islamic State is a highly sectarian organization, a Sunni-based organization, and it is intentionally trying to provoke sectarian conflict in many countries, including in Pakistan,” Serwer said.

“Beginning in the late 1980s and continuing through the 1990s, Pakistan became the theater for a proxy Saudi-Iran war,” Hassan Abbas, a Pakistani security analyst, said in an article for the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University.

U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin of Maryland said Saudi Arabia and Iran have both jostled for influence in Yemen.

“Iran is clearly interfering in Yemen, there is no question about that in our mind and that is why we see the reaction from the Saudis and Yemen and others,” he said in a recent interview.

Serwer said the Islamic State’s actions against Shi'ites can provoke a military reaction by the sect, like in Syria and Iraq.

Recently, sectarian violence in Pakistan, and attacks on Shi'ites in particular, has become deadlier and more brutal. Shi'ite pilgrims were attacked in Baluchistan, and the passengers on the bus in Karachi were shot dead execution-style.

A bomb attack on a Shi'ite bus in Baluchistan in January 2014 killed at least 22 people.


coral
University of Queensland/ Peter J Mumby  
   Coral bleaching such as this example is predicted
   to become a growing issue.


Injecting gas into the sky
considered to save coral

By the University of Exeter news service

Geoengineering of the climate may be the only way to save coral reefs from mass bleaching, according to new research.

Coral reefs are considered one of the most vulnerable ecosystems to future climate change due to rising sea surface temperatures and ocean acidification, which is caused by higher atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide.

Mass coral bleaching, which can lead to coral mortality, is predicted to occur far more frequently over the coming decades, due to the stress exerted by higher seawater temperatures.

Scientists believe that, even under the most ambitious future carbon dioxide reduction scenarios, widespread and severe coral bleaching and degradation will occur by the middle of this century.

The collaborative new research, which includes authors from the Carnegie Institution for Science, the University of Exeter, the Met Office Hadley Centre and the University of Queensland, suggest that a geoengineering technique called Solar Radiation Management reduces the risk of global severe bleaching.

The method involves injecting gas into the stratosphere, forming microscopic particles which reflect some of the sun’s energy and so help limit rising sea surface temperatures.

The study compared a hypothetical solar management geoengineering scenario to the most aggressive future carbon dioxide reduction strategy considered by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and found that coral reefs fared much better under geoengineering despite increasing ocean acidification.

The pioneering international study is published in leading scientific journal, Nature Climate Change.

Lead author Dr Lester Kwiatkowski of the Carnegie Institution for Science said “Our work highlights the sort of climate scenarios that now need to be considered if the protection of coral reefs is a priority.”

Peter Cox, co-author of the research and from the University of Exeter said: “Coral reefs face a dire situation regardless of how intensively society decarbonizes the economy. In reality there is no direct choice between conventional mitigation and climate engineering, but this study shows that we need to either accept that the loss of a large percentage of the world’s reefs is inevitable or start thinking beyond conventional mitigation of CO2 emissions.”




Real estate-related services (paid category)

solar
       
CR SOLAR gives you…
Enphase-Micro-Inverters: Simple, reliable, installation without batteries or complicated central inverters that limit expansion and downgrade your system with one shady panel.
Enphase-Micro-Inverters: so flexible; you can begin saving with a third of a system, then add as you go with your savings!

Think of it this way: cash in a CD paying 7% and get 15% to 25% from the Sun!  What better way to lower your electric bill than with a Quality Solar System from CR Solar?    Ask about our BEST HI END Solar Hot Water Heaters. 
2446-0543           8898-9398                8314-8090
CALL US TODAY!
8553-6/22/15

Real estate brokers and agents (paid category)









Costa Rica,

Central America
Houses, lots and farms in Grecia,
western Central Valley.
Great climate
and safe communities.



Visit our Web Site:
 www.greciarealestate.com


English calls: (Cristian Arce) Phone: 
(506) 2494-0016 
(506) 8309-0173
 
English calls :  (Luis David) Phone: 
(506) 6154-1940 

Español calls: (Luis G. Jiménez)  Phone:   
(506) 8707-4016
 
Grecia one
Big house for sale.
Great opportunity !!!

If you know about house for sale prices,  you will realize that this is a real deal.  Original price of  $400,000 now is $320,000.
Due to its characteristics and location, it can also be used for commercial purposes (boutique hotel, offices, medical center).  Large house, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, one office, just 250 meters from Grecia downtown. High quality construction, built in 2009, high ceilings, balcony with beautiful views over central Grecia valley, elegant luxury furnitures included, network cabling 6 gigabits throughout the house, Giant TV flat projection system of 120 inches in the main room, sound system 7.1 channel. Air conditioning system, security system, and cameras, lighting system in open areas. 4-car parking space plus large garage, Recommended for large families.


Property Location: Central Grecia, Alajuela
Total area construction (two floors):
252 square meters
Total area: 250 square meters
Construction Type: Concrete
See more photos click HERE!

Grecias two
  Send us your request to our email: info@greciarealestate.com
8676-8/18/15

Mafi Real Estate: Houses, lots and farms in Costa Rica





Visit our Web Page:
www.mafirealestate.com


If you do not find you are looking for in our page, contact us, WE HAVE A NETWORK OF OVER 500 brokers across the country to get what you are looking for.

English Calls:
Miguel Fiatt Sauma 
or Paule Ortiz
Phone/Fax.+506 2238-5029
Cel. +506 8399-7000

Send us your request to our
Email: mfiatt@mafirealestate.com
8609-2/20/16
Mafri one
Beautiful house in Santa Ana, Valley and mountain view. Price: $1,300,000. Single story, bedrooms. 5 baths. Double-size garage: 360 m2. Lot: 4,487 m2. 
Click HERE!

Mafri two
San Isidro de Heredia. Great lot with 3 houses. $3,200,000 single story. 1,505 m2 Lot: 37,419m2  Click HERE!
Mafri three
Finca Las Trufas, San Ramon-Esparza, Price: $3,900,000 Farm and ranch. Single story 1,500 m2. on 25 hectares Click HERE!

CoopeAgri

CoopeAgri Real Estate

The best option in real estate services in southern Costa Rica and the South Pacific coast. We are professionals promoting properties such as farms, lots, ranches, commercial premises, homes and apartments, through our advertising and marketing services.
Are you buying a property? Our experienced team is ready to help you to find the right place. Are you selling? We are experts selling properties.  Keep it simple. Don't waste your time. We are  the best local and international listing.  Contact us, and we will be glad to assist you!
E-mail: bienesraices@coopeagri.co.cr
Local CR Phones: (506) 2785-0282 or  (506) 2785-0278
CLICK HERE 
8690-7/16/15

Swimming pool at night
A Buyer’s Broker offering the best
of Costa Rica Real Estate.
For those looking for quality properties and service at quality prices. Central Valley Rentals. Offering honesty, experience and knowledge. Your Villa Real Expert. Call us now  Toll Free (877) 845-4533. In Costa Rica 4030-5480 or 8339-2112. www.costaricarealtyone.com
8554-6/15/14

Remax logo
Re/Max Ocean Surf and Sun:

The experts in buying property in Costa Rica, with more than 20 years experience and the largest networked team of agents in the country.  We can help you learn if investing in Costa Rica is right for you with our low-key, educational approach to sales. Our professional agents can tell you more about Costa Rica properties, including condos, homes, lots and commercial real estate.  Call us: Ocean Surf and Sun Int. Realty Ldta at 011 (506) 2653-0073 or send us an email at: info@remax-oceansurf-cr.com
8583-1/27/16

Real estate for sale (paid category)


ranch view
Small private ranch for sale
This exceptional private ranch sits on a 9+ hectare lot and supports 15-20 horses. Only 2 hours south of San José, on the road to Puriscal. Roomy stalls all with drains, water hookup, lights and fans, grooming and shoeing área. Two-story house all furnished and cowboy house. Don't miss your chance on that turnkey operation.  Offered at $949,000.
E-mail:  marietta234@yahoo.es  or call (506) 8707-1037 
(506) 2778-8408 Web:   http://mariettedaignault.point2agent.com
8696-7/21/15

San Ramon
Mountain home w/million dollar view near San Ramón
Beautiful home in the mountains near San Ramón with 180-degree view of the gulf of Nicoya. 7 miles from San Ramón, 1 mile from Interamericana highway. 3,200 foot elevation so temp is 65 to 75 year around. Electric gate, private drive. house built in 2010. 2 bedrooms, 1 baths, appliances included. High-speed internet installed, Direct TV via sling box on Internet. Price for sale $179,000    Contact Mike: mmpeace@hotmail.com 
Check out slide show HERE!
8671-6/30/15

volacano
DANGER, WILL ROBINSON!
They say a stock market crash is overdue.  Is your money in the bank earning only pennies in interest?  Is it time to get some of your assets out of the United States and into a wonderful retirement location?  That was this owner’s plan.  Gross ROI for this property was 11% most recent 5 months with 1,129 m2 lot crying for development of more rentals.  Build two or even three inexpensive fourplexes and live off of the income the rest of your life.  But current owner is unable to stay in Costa Rica (divorce, health reasons) so must sacrifice retirement dream property.  Offered at only $140,000 by extremely motivated seller and cash talks!  Very desirable location only a short 5-minute walk to central La Fortuna, clean and modern construction 2 bedroom 1 bath home is 102 m2 with no wasted space, very livable.  THIS ABSOLUTELY MUST BE SOLD!  For interior pix email  lafortunaguy@gmail.com
or phone (506) 8377-8402.
8552-5/20/15

Lantz
A beautiful American style suburban home just reduced.

A beautiful American style suburban home, 2,700 sq ft of living space with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, front and rear living rooms, laundry area, kitchen and small attached library nook, arched windows and doors and connected hallways, exotic wood interior ceilings and trim, tile floors thru-out.  The lot is 835 m2 with mature landscape and orchid nurseries surrounding the house. There is an enclosed workshop and BBQ area in the back yard with lots of storage under roof, plus a nursery for an herb/vegetable garden.  This is a very well-kept property with many upgrades, a private feel but yet only 5 minutes from the center of town.  Pérez Zeledón is the commercial hub of the southern zone and considered to be one of the best places to live in all of Costa Rica, the perfect size town, not too big and not too small.  The beach is 45 minutes to the west and a short drive to the cool mountains is to the east. In between, this large valley has a moderate climate.  Pérez has plenty of modern goods and services, an excellent farmers market, private schools, private doctors and clinics, all you need without having to go to the crazy madness of San José.    Just reduced to $239,000.  Call  Jeff: 8824-8113 or 8725-8176.  Email:  angelsdad@me.com
8661-6/20/15

Med house
Mediterranean inspired home overlooking the Bay of Nicoya and Pacific Ocean. This design allows for barrier free living, yet maximizes views from every room in the house . Vaulted ceiling over the living area and kitchen give the great room it’s spacious, open feeling with a natural stone fireplace and imported Spanish tile floors. $365,000.   Property: 22,000 m2 or 5.5 acres. Construction: 4,500 sq. ft. including porches and garage. 3 nedrooms, 2 baths, full dining room, separate office. Custom wrought iron gates, custom exotic wood cabinets, high-end stainless steel appliances, Granite countertops.    Slide show at   
 www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/view/24055899   
For more information contact:  deeday214@gmail.com
8657-7/14/15

Orosi
Costa Rica Villas For Sale
*In 2009 this property appraisal for $240,000  (two hundred forty thousand).
*Located in Paraiso, Cartago, Costa Rica.
*We spent over $70,000 in renovating the villa.
*The first floor has renters with a year lease. They pay $200 a month.
*Health reasons need to return to the U.S.A.
*One of Costa Rica famous waterfalls, 100 yards in front of the villa.
*I'll sell this property for $189,000.
*Visit my Web site www.costaricavalleyhotel.com
Contact in Costa Rica:  Cray phone (506) 8977-2777
Contact in USA: Billy phone  001 (678) 576-5107
8652-5/7/15

For sale: Titled beachfront lot 1/2 acre (1,750m2) near Jacó $89,000. Just one hour drive from San José.
Panoramic ocean view lot 1.25 acres (5,000m2) 25 minutes from Tamarindo  $25,000.
Panoramic ocean view lot  5,400 sq. ft. (500m2)  $6,500. Financing available.
For rent two-bedroom house  five minute walk to water $350 a month.
Call 6261-7932 Or email gsmboss@hotmail.com. See this Web site:
http://costaricarealestate.jimdo.com/
8651-5/7/15

Shangra la
Located in Jacó in the best and safest location possible, at Barrio Ricos y Famosos in Calle Europa, Casa Shangri La.

Main house: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 270 square meters, 2 condominiums 2 bedrooms, one bath, 110 square meters, plus one small apartment: One bedroom, one bath. Huge pool, carport for five cars. plus double garage, rancho with pool bathroom, gymnasium, laundry room, pool plumbing room, huge dog house in separate 500-square-meter garden with aviary for birds and other animals. 60 meters of river front of Río Copey with a 4-meter-high protective and retention stone wall. Eight surveillance camera CCTV system with Internet access from anywhere. Over 2-meter-high brick wall all around the property with two layers of razor wires on top, the safest place to be! Electronic entrance gate, door phone, Beautiful gardens with many fruit trees. Built in year 2005 to highest standard by German owner now 69 years old, who wants to downgrade. Room for two more apartments, plans approved. Only 6 minutes walk to the beach and or center of Jacó.  Price reduced for quick sale to $1,150.000 and still negotiable. All fittings and furniture included. Excellent quality and well maintained. Just upgraded and remodeled for $ 30,000. Owner financing available.  More photos on request HERE! Email: wolfganghilbich@yahoo.com  Cell 8838-2081 or home 2643-2979.
8648-7/29/14

Ringle resort
on one big lot in Esterillos Oeste, (Central Pacific)
Located on a breezy hill just 4 minutes walk to the beach, surf and tide-pools, only 20 minutes drive north to Jacó nightlife and shopping or south to the rural town of Parrita.

First, a 2-storey, 2-bedroom (sleeps 4), 1½-bathroom house with big kitchen and living room.  Full-width verandah with eating and sitting areas, overlooking lawn, pool and gazebo. Sitting balcony at upper, bedroom level.  Carport. and laundry. 

Second, a completely private single-storey. 2-bedroom (sleeps 4), 1-bathroom home with big back yard at a lower level on the same, big fully titled 1,100M2 lot.. Full security bars at all doors and windows, plus locking vehicle access and pedestrian gates at the street. In a very safe neighborhood, with private and natural surroundings

Well maintained, fully and tastefully furnished and equipped, hot water, local phone, cable TV/DVD and high speed wireless internet   The houses have been rented for both long-term and vacation for $100/$80 per day and $1,500/$1,200 per month respectively. See this place, you will love it! Then make an offer. E-mail azucarb@racsa.co.cr or call (506) 8386-8825.  Rodney, asking $350,000.
8679-5/17/15

Finca home
 Little piece of paradise near Santiago de Puriscal, Costa Rica.       

16 acres (approximately.)   Price: $599,000USD
We are selling our beautiful finca that has been in the family for 37 years. It is located 3 miles (5 k) northwest of Santiago de Puriscal in the village of Desamparaditos.  We are looking for a discriminating buyer who would appreciate the location, views, flora and fauna. Excellent for artists, writers and nature lovers. Fantastic birding. Very private but not isolated. For more  information: In the U.S.A. call the owners: Pete & Debbie Todd: 970 -221-1457 or 720-951-7928 or email toddscolorado@gmail.com. In Costa Rica call: Ivo Henfling at Godutch Realty: 2289-5125/8834-4515 ivo@godutchrealty.com
8524-6/5/15

Jaco hotel

Beautiful beach hotel for sale.
Located at Jacó Beach, Costa Rica, Pacific Ocean.
Apartotel Costa Arenas is located just 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Jacó Downtown. The perfect place to rest in a cozy and familiar environment; surrounded by beautiful gardens. We have 11 fully equipped apartments. Also has swimming pool for adults and children and private parking 24 hours.  Retail value US$700,000.00   Contact:  
Carlos Díaz  Local CR Phone: (506) 2643-2085  
Email: costarenas@ice.co.cr   Web: www.costa-arenas.com
8573-4/15/15

ARenal property
Location: Near Arenal        Price: $2.7 million
Size: 113 acres
Web site: costaricalandsales.com
email: kim@costaricalandsales.com

The farm is at the highest point on a stunning ridge bordered by pristine Costa Rican primary forest on all sides of the property, with active wildlife all throughout the area. On each of its gently rolling terraced lomas you get a glimpse of Volcán Arenal from a distance. This property has four different lagunas, a working organic farm and nursery, mature fruit trees, sheep corral, ideal for grazing horses with stunning views from all the hillsides. The Northern Zone of Costa Rica is the country's best kept secret, providing a perfect home base location to travel the country's many destinations while still maintaining the best climate at 400 meters above sea level.
8406-8/2/14

Real estate services
Real estate for sale
Businesses for sale

Business for sale or lease (paid category)
FOR SALE  5,200 M2  ESCAZÚ
Fantastic location for condo/ hotel, restaurant. Large lower lot. incredible views. Flexible zoning $2.3 M 
hotel
Easy to get liquor license.
Low interest financing
http://www.hotel4salecostarica.com/
http://www.hotelsescazu.com/
hotelescazu@aol.com
Call Bruce at: (506) 8307-0164.
8863-6/13/15

Live the dream!
Several profitable businesses, including a regional radio station, are for sale in Costa Rica. Certain purchases can provide the new owner with residency as well as a great lifestyle. So live your dream while making a profit. Contact: manager@crbusiness.biz.

Real estate services
Real estate for sale
Businesses for sale

Some of our other titles:
A.M. Panama
A.M. Colombia
A.M. Guatemala
A.M. Honduras
A.M. Cuba
A.M. Nicaragua
A.M. Venezuela
A.M. Central America
A.M.
Dominican Republic

A.M. Ecuador A.M. El Salvador
A.M. Bolivia

Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
What we published this week: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Earlier
The contents of this Web site are copyrighted by Consultantes Río Colorado S.A. 2015 and may not be reproduced anywhere without permission. 
Abstracts and fair use are permitted.  Check HERE for details



A.M. Costa Rica's
sixth news page


San José, Costa Rica, Tuesday, May 26, 2015, Vol. 15, No. 102
Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us

News from the BBC up to the minute

















BBC neews feeds are disabled on archived pages.
















Latin news from the BBC up to the minute
beach cleanup
Banco Nacional photo      
 These volunteers under the banner of the Banco Nacional and the
  canton of  Garabito collected 700 kilos of old tires and other trash
  at Playa Azul  in  Tárcoles over the weekend. The beach catches
  much of the Central Valley trash.




Anti-tobacco crusaders honored

Special to A.M. Costa Rica

The Pan American Health Organization is honoring six individuals and organizations as winners of the regional 2015 World No Tobacco Day awards, in recognition of their contributions to advancing tobacco control in the Americas.

The World No Tobacco Day awards honor individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to advancing policies and measures on tobacco control.

The regional winners from the Americas of the 2015 World No Tobacco Day awards are:

Nicaragua, represented by President Daniel Ortega. Nicaragua was the first country in the world to ratify the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade of Tobacco Products. The country's leadership and example are expected to encourage other countries of the Americas to follow suit and help to secure the number of ratifications needed for the protocol to enter into force internationally.

Uruguay, represented by President Tabaré Vásquez. Uruguay was the second country of the Americas to ratify the protocol. Vázquez, a medical doctor and oncologist by training, played the lead role in advancing his country's comprehensive and effective tobacco control policies. Despite legal challenges by the tobacco industry, he has continued to support tobacco control during his second presidential term and is also encouraging public policies to reduce harmful consumption of alcohol.

Marcelo Fisch, head of the Fiscal Special Control Division of the Federal Revenue Secretariat in Brazil's Ministry of Finance. Fisch has been a key partner in advancing tobacco control both in Brazil and internationally. Under his  leadership, Brazil began a process that eventually culminated in a track and tracing system for tobacco products known as Skorpios.

Patricia Sosa, director of Latin America programs for the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, a leading force in the fight to reduce tobacco use and its deadly toll in the United States and around the world. Ms. Sosa has provided key support and coordination that has helped advance tobacco control in countries including Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Perú.

Stella Aguinaga Bialous. A nurse by training, MS. Bialous has become an internationally recognized expert on monitoring the tobacco industry and developing policies to address industry interference with public health.

Mirta Molinari, who serves as regional tobacco control coordinator for Latin America of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease and director of the Union's country office in Mexico.




Costa Rican News
AMCostaRicaArchives.com
Retire NOW in Costa Rica
CostaRicaReport.com
Fine Dining in Costa Rica
The CAFTA Report
Fish fabulous Costa Rica


Sports
Calendar
Opinion
Classifieds
Real Estate
Lifestyle
Food
About us
What we published this week: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Earlier
The contents of this Web site are copyrighted by Consultantes Río Colorado S.A. 2015 and may not be reproduced anywhere without permission.
Abstracts and fair use are permitted.  Check HERE for details



From Page 7:


Tourism expert here to help hotel operators

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Peter Tarlow, an expert on tourism safety, is a guest of the Municipalidad de Escazú, to conduct a seminar for hotel operators on tourism safety.

Tarlow, who has a doctorate in sociology, has worked for years with U.S. government agencies. He published a book, "Tourism Security," on the topic in 2014. He is CEO of Tourism & More, a College Station, Texas, firm.

Among other agencies, Tarlow was hired by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to consult on security for its recreation areas, and he was involved with security for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, according to his online biography.