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www.ticotimes.net Friday, February 9, 2007 – San José, Costa Rica Since 1956

NEWS LOOK BOTH WAYS Photo by Mónica Quesada New Mayors Begin Tackling Priorities

Some of the 81 municipal leaders who took office this week discussed their goals and priorities with The Tico Times. Page 8

First Charges Filed in Alcatel Corruption Case

A former Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) board member has been charged with taking bribes from the multinational telecom firm Alcatel. Page 4 BUSINESS Legal Action Stalls Assembly’s CAFTA Debate

Legislative deliberations on the controversial U.S. free-trade agreement have been delayed by a law- suit filed by the opposition parties. Page 12

WEEKEND Costa Rica’s nearly 1 million students headed back to school Wednesday, and Transport Minister Karla Love is on the Air With Dave and Margie González, above with 6th grade student Luis Marín of the Rincón Grande School in the western San José sub- urb of Pavas, turned out to tout the government’s new efforts to make sure they got there safely. The ministry DJs Dave “the Dude” Scott and Margie Flaum, plans to distribute 4,000 vests for crossing guards and 11,000 reflective stickers for students’ backpacks this year recently married, are teaming up in the studio in hopes of reducing the number of traffic accidents involving minors. with a morning show to debut Valentine’s Day. Page W1 Fires Prompt Safety Overhaul By Leland Baxter-Neal disposal will remain unresolved for the time worst-ever chemical disaster erupted Dec. 13, Tico Times Staff being. 2006, when an explosion at a chemical storage Because Costa Rica’s government has no plant outside the Caribbean port of Moín In the wake of safe containment site for chemical waste, the quickly became a raging fire with flames bil- two fatal chemical disposal of such substances is often left to the lowing stories high. A massive black cloud of fires in late 2006, discretion of the companies involved. Lax su- toxic smoke was visible for miles around and the government has pervision means waste leaks into Costa Rica’s across the country on special live news cover- been scrambling to environment, and a lack of options has meant age. Two workers died from burns sustained THE NICA TIMES get a handle on che- that when the government is forced to deal during the inferno (TT, Dec. 15, 2006). mical and fuel safe- with hazardous materials after spills or other Several weeks earlier, on Oct. 29, two sib- Tourism Director ty in Costa Rica. emergencies, it has resorted to sending them to lings ages 5 and 13 burned to death in the Envisions Future But as officials work landfills. Officials, however, say the Health backseat of their mother’s car after a gas spill to prepare new regulations and legislation, it Ministry is now shying away from this practice. at the Shell station where they were filling up Nicaragua’s new director of Costa Rica’s most recent and possibly Page 11 appears that the problem of hazardous waste tourism discuses his vision for the future in an exclu- sive interview with The Japan’s Gifts Raise Eyebrows Onlookers Scarce Nica Times. By Dave Sherwood On the wall beside him, an engraved At Villalobos Trial EVERY WEEK plaque detailed the generous donation of the Tico Times Staff By Leland Baxter-Neal Japanese Embassy to the school: new class- Editorial 16 Business & Real Tico Times Staff Toshihisa Mi- rooms, a refrigerator for the kitchen, a fresh Letters 17 Estate 12 yamoto bowed ever coat of paint for the walls, new roofs and Cartoon 17 Crossword 23 The anticipated trial of financier so slightly from the ceramic tile floors to hold down dust in the Osvaldo Villalobos got under way this week Classifieds 18 Weather 23 hip as he greeted dry months. with thousands of affected investors not 48 PAGES Virgita Vargas, the “The children are so excited. Now there Weekend showing up. principal of La Ca- are enough rooms for all the students to Horoscope W4 Of an estimated 6,000-plus people, lifornia Elementary attend school at once, and everything is so W8 mostly North Americans, Europeans and Exploring CR School, in the sha- much cleaner. We have a new sense of pride wealthy Costa Ricans, who say they lost bet- Fishing Report W12 dow of Juan San- in our school,”Vargas said. ween thousands and millions of dollars in the Movies W13 tamaría International Airport in Alajuela, Miyamoto, undersecretary of economy Page 2 Calendar W14 west of San José. Page 3 2 | NEWS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

Trade Minister Announces Defense Promises to Return Funds Negotiators for E.U. Pact Page 1 Foreign Trade Minister Marco Vinicio Empty Seats: Ruiz announced Wednesday that a team of defunct investment operation known as The anticipated three Costa Ricans, two of whom helped “The Brothers” – allegedly run by Osvaldo trial of Osvaldo negotiate a controversial trade pact with the and his fugitive brother Luis Enrique United States in 2003, has been chosen to Villalobos represent the country in negotiations for a Villalobos – only a few were present at the began this week start of the trial Monday. At least two fell Central American-European Union asleep during the dry, initial proceedings. with a smaller- Association Agreement. At its most crowded, a sprinkling of than-expected Chief negotiator Roberto Echandi – fewer than 20 onlookers peppered the 408- audience. who is also Costa Rica’s ambassador to the European Union – as well as adjunct nego- seat, improvised courtroom in the Miguel Officials opened tiators Cristian Guillermet, representing the Blanco Quirós auditorium in the Judicial the trial in an Foreign Relations Ministry, and Fernando Investigation Police (OIJ) building in down- Ocampo, representing the Foreign Trade town San José. The auditorium was outfitted auditorium, but Ministry (COMEX), will work with repre- for the trial in anticipation of a multitude of only a few sentatives of other Central American coun- investors, many of whom had their life sav- investors tries in the coming months to prepare for ings invested when the Villalobos brothers showed up to the first E.U. meetings, expected to begin closed up shop in 2002. mid-year, Ruiz told reporters following A tired-looking and soft-spoken Osvaldo see the proceedings. President Oscar Arias’ weekly Cabinet meet- was present at the trial this week, but will not ing. testify until the end of proceedings, accord- Mónica Quesada | Tico Times Asked why he chose Echandi and ing to his defense team. He declined to talk Ocampo, who served on the often-criticized to The Tico Times. The Storied History While lead prosecutor Espinoza refused to comment on the case, the government’s negotiating team of the Central American Observers were nearly outnumbered by Osvaldo is facing charges of money laun- Free-Trade Agreement (CAFTA) – activists the judges and lawyers until the handful of accusation called The Brothers “a family dering, fraud and illegal financial intermedi- business,” and a described a “circular system at anti-CAFTA marches often claim the pact attorneys representing private cases added to ation – for which he could get up to 36 years was negotiated “behind the backs of Costa the public prosecution’s case (known as of receiving and paying” investor funds, sim- in prison if convicted on all charges – in con- ilar to a pyramid or Ponzi scheme. The pros- Ricans” and that negotiators ceded too querellas) one by one announced they had nection with The Brothers, which for more much ground – Ruiz said they’re simply the come to an agreement with the defendant, ecution alleged Osvaldo and Luis Enrique than 15 years paid monthly interest pay- used Ofinter and 22 other corporations most qualified people for the job. dropped their charges against Osvaldo and ments of 2.8-3% of investments, which in “It’s not a political team. It’s a technical left the building. By the end of the day, gov- allegedly linked to the Villalobos brothers to the later years were accepted only in sums of channel funds through different bank team,” he said, adding later that, “we need ernment prosecutors Walter Espinoza and $10,000 or more. the best people there, and these are the best Ilem Meléndez were joined only by Ewald accounts and investments, hide the origin of Though it was run out of the same office the money and eventually use the same people.” Acuña – a well-known lawyer representing However, the government plans to where Osvaldo operated a money exchange money to pay investors’ monthly interest. hundreds of investors in their claims against “learn from the experiences we had (with business, Ofinter S.A., Osvaldo’s defense The Brothers’ investments did not produce the Villalobos brothers. CAFTA) and involve the ministries a great insists their client had nothing to do with the nearly enough to account for the operation’s Whether the lawyers’ clients caved to the deal” in the negotiation process, as well as investment service run by Luis Enrique. high returns, and investors were given sup- months of pressure exerted by Villalobos social groups, Ruiz said. The Foreign “We are going to prove that there is not posed guarantee checks that in reality were supporters on those who filed personal Ministry and COMEX will work with min- one criminal act that has been committed by linked to a bank account with less than fraud claims (TT, Jan. 19) is unknown. But Osvaldo Villalobos. Osvaldo Villalobos’ busi- isters to ensure the sectors under their lead- Osvaldo’s defense team announced it would $5,000 and which had been inactive since ership are represented, and will coordinate ness was always a legal, decent business, a 1997, the prosecution alleged. not seek legal fees from anyone who drops business that always fulfilled its obligations with the Planning Ministry to ensure that The prosecutors’ accusation was fol- their querellas, as is the right under Costa with its clients. We believe the Prosecutor’s aid or cooperation the European Union lowed by Acuña’s, which wrapped up Rican law of any person who has a lawsuit Office is mistaken,” Araya said. “Ofinter offers during negotiations meets Costa filed against them that is later withdrawn. never received investor money. Its commer- Tuesday afternoon. José Miguel Villalobos Rica’s needs. The defense also may have told the cial operations were the purchase and sale of (no relation), a former Justice Minister and –Katherine Stanley lawyers what it told The Tico Times this foreign exchange and changing checks.” attorney hired by the United Concerned week: once Osvaldo is cleared, everybody The Costa Rican government began Citizens and Residents (UCCR) – an associ- Trucker License Requirements will be paid back their original investments. investigating The Brothers – which was not ation of Villalobos brothers’ supporters – “For us, the withdrawal of the querellas regulated by financial authorities – in 2002 was intermittently present at the trial, and Tightened after Recent Deaths means that people have realized that there is and raided their offices in July of that year as said he was cooperating with the defense no crime here, and when this ends, they will part of a joint investigation with the Royal team but would have no part in the trial. The The freewheeling truck driving industry get their money back,” said Rodrigo Araya, Canadian Mounted Police, who believed a UCCR attorney was reportedly paid more in Costa Rica, which has long recruited one of Osvaldo’s attorneys. Canadian drug trafficking ring laundered at than $100,000 from funds collected from drivers with little or no experience on the How? With what they say is $12 million least $300,000 through the Villalobos opera- UCCR members to look out for the group’s road, may be coming to a screeching halt in bank accounts currently frozen by the tion (TT, July 12, 2002). interests, according to a former UCCR soon, according to a statement by the government – significantly larger than the The Brothers continued to operate after member, and had initially talked of suing the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. figure of $7 million always maintained by the raid, and accepted more deposits until Costa Rican government (TT, Feb. 7, 2003). The Ministry announced that it will Judicial Branch officials – and by going back October, when Enrique vanished, allegedly Wednesday morning the defense made once again require prospective trailer truck to the same business as before. According to with as much as $1 billion of investors’ money their opening statements, asserting Osvaldo’s drivers to have five years of experience or the defense, the government can only seize (TT, Sept. 24, 2004). Osvaldo, who stayed innocence and insisting he had nothing to do more before obtaining the necessary per- the frozen funds if they convict Osvaldo of behind, was arrested shortly after and held in with The Brothers. Defense lawyers also chal- mits to handle the big rigs, according to a money laundering. prison and house arrest for nearly two years lenged the hundreds of civil suits and querel- report in the daily La Nación. “When (the money) is unfrozen, these before being released (TT, April 1, 2005). las filed by investors with Acuña, alleging pro- The process will also require a test that people who have been working legally are cedural errors. According to defense lawyer proves applicants capable of handling the going to continue working to continue pro- Court Proceedings Rodrigo Araya, many of the claimants incor- trucks, which outweigh anything on the ducing and to pay down to the last penny,” rectly processed their power of attorney, and road and intimidate, and often endanger, Araya said. He did not explain how Osvaldo In the spacious auditorium, the trial therefore their suits should be dismissed. other drivers. would earn enough to pay the astronomi- began Monday morning with prosecutors Trial proceedings were suspended until The recent announcement came after a cally large outstanding debt, only that the Espinoza and Meléndez taking turns reading today as judges considered the motions. number of highly publicized accidents Villalobos brothers had “many different the government’s accusation in its entirety – The trial is presided over by lead judge involving young truck drivers on Costa businesses.” a monotonous process that involved citing Isabel Porras, and judges Carlos Pérez and Rica’s notoriously dangerous roads. It has never been clear what The thousands of checks, check numbers, bank Manuel Rojas, and Jeaneth Villareal serves as Currently licensed truck drivers will also Brothers did with the money to produce the account numbers, dates, businesses and shell a supplementary reserve judge to replace any be required to take a test before they can high returns paid out, and some have said companies allegedly used by the Villalobos of the three if needed. The prosecution has renew their permits – allowing for a full there was no way a legitimate operation – brothers in their financial operation. The called 57 witnesses, while the defense has “cleansing” of the system, according to the which The Brothers claimed to be – could reading took the entire first day of proceed- called 60, and the trial is estimated to last La Nación report. show such soaring profits. ings, and continued into the second. between four and six months. –Tico Times

Apdo. 4632-1000 | San José, Costa Rica | Tel.: (506) 258-1558 | Fax. (506) 233-6378 U.S. Residents send mail to: The Tico Times SJO 717 | P.O. Box 025331 Contact Us Miami, Fl. 33102-5331 | E-mail: [email protected] Advertising: [email protected] | [email protected] | Subscriptions: [email protected] THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | NEWS | 3 Critics Skeptical of Japanese Generosity

Page 1 – in order to gain votes in favor of lifting the Ministry, Japan’s generosity is nothing new moratorium, according to Greenpeace. or unusual – the country has granted mil- and aid for the Japanese Embassy in Costa Álvarez said such gifts are not so subtle, in- lions of dollars in aid to both private and Rica, blushed and smiled, then bowed again. fluencing both politicians and public opinion. public institutions in the country since 1989. On a recent press trip, this school was “These investments by the Japanese gov- “Even after this region became less and one stop of several in the Central Valley ernment are far more important than the less important strategically in the world, designed to demonstrate Japanese generosity influence that Greenpeace can have, or any Japan’s program of support did not change. to the people of Costa Rica. other environmental group,” he said. “Obvi- You can’t say the same for other countries,” In San Isidro de Grecia, municipality ously there has been some pressure – and it said Circe Villanueva, director of interna- water officials requested and received a grant wouldn’t be the first time that’s happened.” tional cooperation for the ministry. of $77,000 from the Japanese Embassy, Álvarez cites other cases in Central Villanueva said the ministry has yet to allowing them to build an aqueduct – known America, including Guatemala in 2005 and compile international cooperation statistics locally as the Tanque Japonesa – holding more recently Nicaragua, where a similar skir- for 2006, but she said Japan’s program, while 500,000 cubic liters of water and ensuring mish ensued last year when Greenpeace cam- perhaps up a little, hasn’t wavered in years. hundreds of residents clean, safe drinking paigner Milko Schvartzman accused that Asked by The Tico Times to put Japan’s water. In Zarcero, Japanese support allowed countries’ fisheries director, Miguel Marenco, generosity in perspective, Villanueva pointed local organic farmers to build a co-op that of being “an employee of Japan” and using his out that not all embassy aid programs are as influence to sway a Nicaraguan vote in favor of markets more than 30 varieties of fruits and well organized and publicized as that of Ja- whale hunting (NT, April 7, 2006). vegetables from the region. pan’s, and thus they often go uncounted, mak- While the allegations eventually fizzled Since 1989, the Japanese have donated ing country-by-country comparisons difficult. more than $17 million in community aid Mónica Quesada | Tico Times and no such innuendos ever proven, She did, however, affirm that Japan’s projects, and more than $6.5 million in cul- Helping Out Communities: Japanese Nicaragua did indeed vote against the whale “program of cooperation is among the most ban, leaving international environmental tural projects – including the purchase of Embassy representative Toshihisa Mi- important in our country.” instruments for the Costa Rican symphony groups fuming. According to Suzuki, the program – the orchestra, high-tech Japanese equipment yamoto, left, inspects a water tank Yasuhisa Suzuki, advisor to the Japanese same one which helped bring roofs and floor endoscopes for hospitals and even chemical funded by his government. Embassy in San José, acknowledged his coun- tiles to the school in Alajuela – will remain pesticides to help fight the spread of try’s interest in whaling in international waters. open to further applications from Costa dengue fever. Last month, a week before the Japanese “Yes, we are in favor of hunting whales. Ricans, regardless of the outcome of any During the past few months, Japanese gen- press tour, national and international envi- But we are not saying hunt them to extinc- whaling commission vote. erosity has reached an almost feverish pace, ronmental groups made headlines in down- tion, we are in favor of sustainability,”he said, Last week, as the group of reporters and with press releases announcing new projects town San José’s Culture Plaza, toting a life- insisting that Japan’s intent is to fish only for Japanese officials filed out of the newly flowing from the embassy like river water in size inflatable whale and urging the govern- abundant species of whales. He denied the remodeled school building, principal Vargas Costa Rica’s green season. ment to oppose Japan’s plans to resume issue has anything to do with his country’s stopped in front of a freshly painted map of Which begs the question: Why? commercial whaling (TT, Jan. 26). well-known international aid program. the world, another new edition to a school so Mauricio Álvarez, of the Costa Rican Last week, Broad Front legislator José Me- “We owe much of the infrastructure of desperately in need of attention. Federation for Environmental Conservation rino filed a lawsuit against the Environment Japan to the United States. They don’t need She pointed to Japan – a mere speck near (FECON), is skeptical, especially since the and Energy Ministry (MINAE) in hopes of the help, so we’re helping other countries to the bottom right-hand corner of the big, col- recent upturn in aid projects seems to coin- forcing the government’s hand on the matter. develop – we’re simply returning the favor orful map – and smiled at Miyamoto and the cide with a critical juncture in the future of Marine biologist Damián Martínez paid to us after World War II. This is a long- delegates from the Japanese Embassy. whaling in the world’s oceans – an upcoming warned that Costa Rica has been behind on its standing program,” he said. “It’s a small country, but also very big,” vote of the International Whaling Commi- dues to the whaling commission for 20 years, According to Costa Rica’s Foreign Vargas said. ssion in June on whether or not to resume and must pay up in order to regain voting sta- commercial hunting. tus and stop Japan from hunting whales. Though whaling is outlawed worldwide “There are towns in the Osa Peninsula that except for scientific purposes, the Japanese survive on the tourism whales bring to the have long insisted “sustainable whaling,” area, and these migratory whales could become causes no harm to global populations – the victims of hunting if Japan’s plan goes much to the chagrin of international envi- through,” he said. Costa Rica is among the top ronmental group Greenpeace, which helped destinations in the world for whale-watchers. Stay Downtown in the Heart of San José - Not 10 Miles Away! orchestrate the original ban in 1986. 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By Katherine Stanley Economic Crimes. Additionally, Bravo has ing $9.6 million in bribes. itself from the restriction. ICE officials then Tico Times Staff been ordered to pay the government $1.08 Among the expected witnesses in Bravo’s began evaluating the possibility of purchas- million, the daily reported. trial is ex-President Rafael Angel Calderón ing 200,000 additional cellular lines from the After more than two years investigating According to the Prosecutor’s Office, (1990-1994), accused of accepting kickbacks company, a step the Attorney’s Office strong- various former public officials accused of Alcatel’s regional representatives channeled in another major case under investigation, ly opposes, according to La Nación. Costa receiving kickbacks in connection with a gov- funds to Bravo and other officials to ensure involving a medical equipment purchase Rica ran out of GSM lines last October. ernment telecommunications contract, pros- Alcatel would receive a $149 million con- from a Finnish company. According to the Meanwhile, the governments of Costa ecutors have made their first formal charges. tract to operate 400,000 GSM cellular lines daily, Calderón is expected to testify regard- Rica and Finland have accused each other of Hernán Bravo, a former member of the to the state-run ICE, which has a monopoly ing the relationship between Bravo and delaying the other corruption investigation Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) board on telecommunications. another suspect. that involves ex-President Calderón. The of directors, has been formally accused of Other government officials under inves- Legal proceedings against Alcatel’s for- case involves allegations that Calderón and accepting approximately $1.05 million from tigation in the case, which came to light in mer senior vice-president for Latin America, other public officials received substantial multinational telecommunications firm 2004 after the daily La Nación and other Christian Sapsizian, are under way in the “commissions” in connection with a $39.5 Alcatel in 2001, according to the daily Al Día. media published reports about the alleged United States, where Alcatel – now Alcatel- million purchase of medical equipment The charges were filed Jan. 23 before a kickbacks, include ex-President Miguel Lucent – is a publicly traded company. from Finnish company Instrumentarium by judge from San José’s Second Circuit Court Angel Rodríguez (1998-2002). In total, for- Sapsizian is one of the former Alcatel offi- Costa Rica’s Social Security System (Caja). by the Adjunct Prosecutor’s Office for mer Alcatel officials are accused of distribut- cials accused of paying bribes to Costa Rican According to La Nación, Costa Rican officials (TT, Dec. 8, 2006). Prosecutor Andrea Murillo says her Finnish Other news in the case came this week counterparts have not responded to three when ICE announced it has decided to end requests sent more than a year ago for infor- SPECIAL OFFER: U.S. its contract with Alcatel two years early, mation about companies involved in the assuming operation of the 400,000 lines – an transaction. INCOME TAX option stipulated in the original contract in Poti Kari, administrative and consular $35 + tax Mon./Fri. the case that ICE is not satisfied with attaché for the Finnish Embassy in Nicara- David G. Housman, Attorney & C.P.A. Alcatel’s service. 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Kalliokoski has said Finland’s investigation •Room service •Hair dryer closure information to the I.R.S. and tak- ing advantage of the Foreign Income Tax The decision came days after the Ethics of Instrumentarium, now a holding of •Air conditioning •27-inch TV Exclusion (up to $80,000 per year) for all Branch of the Government Attorney’s Office General Electric, has not advanced at all back years. asked the Second Circuit Court to increase because the Costa Rican Prosecutor’s Office FREE WIRELESS INTERNET SERVICES an embargo on Alcatel’s services from $9 hasn’t sent crucial information Finnish IN COSTA RICA 26 YEARS million to $17.81 million. authorities requested in early 2006. CAMPO VEINTIUNA, S.A. 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Iberia Airlines Increases Arias: National Police Force police force for the protection of our citi- Liberal Nicaraguan Alliance (ALN) intro- zens, with a military army,” Arias told the duced a bill that calls for the destruction of Flights to Costa Rica Does Not an Army Make daily La Nación. The President, who the weapons – something the United States received a Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 during has long requested as part of its war against Spanish airline Iberia has announced President Oscar Arias this week criti- his first presidency, said Central America terrorism. Ortega indicated that as long as plans to add daily direct flights to San José cized Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega should aim to become the world’s first other Central American countries continue beginning in June, according to a statement for claiming that this country has an demilitarized region. expanding their armed forces, “the Sandi- from the Costa Rica Tourism Institute army. Ortega made his statement after nista government will buy new rockets,” (ICT). On Saturday, Ortega, explaining why Nicaraguan legislators from the opposition AFP reported. The airline now has seven flights weekly Nicaragua should not destroy its remaining Liberal Constitutional Party (PLC) and –Tico Times to Costa Rica from Spain: six with layovers SAM-7 missiles, said that “we have armies in either Guatemala or Panama and one throughout Central America, including direct flight. In June, it will add three direct Costa Rica, which has a very powerful force flights per week between Madrid and San they call the National Police, for which rea- José. son Nicaragua won’t keep disarming itself These new flights will be serviced by while neighboring countries have more Airbus A340-600 aircrafts with capacity for powerful air forces,” according to wire serv- 232 passengers. Iberia announced this decision Feb. 2 at ice AFP. the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) in Arias called this suggestion “completely Madrid. Representatives from ICT, along false.” Costa Rica officially abolished its with those from the National Tourism army in 1948. Chamber (CANATUR) attended the fair. “It makes no sense to confuse a civil Their goals included attracting European airlines to fly here to regain tourists lost when the Spanish airline Air Madrid shut down late last year (TT, Feb. 2). Tourism Minister Carlos Benavides expressed “enormous satisfaction” over Iberia’s decision, which he said, “demon- strates the enormous trust in the growth of European tourism to Costa Rica,” according to the statement. –Tico Times

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7513 www.qualitycostarica.com 8361 7872 8091 6 | NEWS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 Reporter Convicted, Priest Acquitted of Libel By Katherine Stanley A Catholic priest – accused of libel ted of the charges, eliciting cheers from sev- appeal,”Moya added. “(Ramos) isn’t just any Tico Times Staff because he’d allegedly claimed that La Cruz eral community and environmental groups. source – he’s an accredited source. It’s Mayor-elect Carlos Gonzaga, who took However, a reporter from the daily La absolutely absurd.” Two cases involving Costa Rica’s laws office this week, illegally acquired lands in Nación was convicted of libel because of a An e-mail from reporter Hazel Fei- governing freedom of expression yielded the northwestern province and transferred mistake apparently made by an official he genblatt distributed through the listserv of very different results this week. them to President Oscar Arias – was acquit- quoted. (The reporter, Ronald Moya, was the Institute for Freedom of Press, Ex- among the journalists who covered priest pression and Public Information (IPLEX) Ronald Vargas’ high-profile case.) said the ruling against the La Nación A judge ordered Moya, along with fellow reporters “sets a terrible precedent…if one reporter Freddy Parrales and the newspaper, publishes that an official is being investigat- to pay damages of ¢5 million (approximate- ed and he alleges that he’s ‘traumatized,’ etc. ly $9,615), Moya told The Tico Times this then there is a civil damage.” week. The reporters were convicted of the IPLEX and other press-freedom advo- civil charges against them, though acquitted cates have been working for more than six of criminal charges. years to change the country’s Press Law, The reason for their conviction? In a which is more than a century old and calls story published Dec. 17, 2005, Moya and for prison sentences for reporters convicted Parrales attributed to then-Public Security on criminal charges of libel. A bill to change Minister Rogelio Ramos a statement that the law finally made it to the upper strato- “the police chief of San Vito de Coto Brus, of sphere of the Legislative Agenda in Decem- the last name Cruz…is object of an investi- ber, but has since been shoved aside to make gation” for alleged irregularities related to room for other bills. contraband liquor cases. In priest Vargas’ case, Guanacaste judge Had they misquoted the minister? No, Rafael Saborío ruled that the witnesses who Moya said: the police chief apparently filed testified against the priest “don’t deserve cred- suit because Ramos, and subsequently the ibility” and failed to prove Vargas had made reporters, had incorrectly identified the “injurious statements,” La Nación reported. Southern Zone canton in which he served. He also stated that the witnesses against Though La Nación ran a retraction by Vargas shared “a direct line of friendship.” Ramos, and Ramos himself appeared at the Vargas said his comments about Gonza- trial to admit that the error was his alone, the ga’s alleged acquisition of land from the Agri- judge ruled that the reporters should have cultural Development Institute (IDA), and confirmed his statements with the Judicial subsequent transferal of the land to President Branch, and that the error caused the police Arias, were based on TV news reports and a chief “moral damage,” according to Moya. Comptroller General’s Office report. The Tico Times asked the San José Mayor Gonzaga said he plans to appeal. Second Circuit Criminal Court and the Arias’ brother and spokesman, Rodrigo Judicial Branch for a copy of the decision Arias, told wire service AFP that the President and more information about the case, but obtained the lands “without knowing their did not receive it by press time. origin” and “had nothing to do with the com-

8401 “Obviously we’re going to present an plaint against the priest.”

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New Mayors Take Office, Explain Priorities By Katherine Stanley organizations working to tackle the city’s Tico Times Staff crime problems. In the speech, he urged the Legislative Assembly and Executive The 81 new mayors who took office Branch to push for reforms that would Monday are a varied bunch. The National decentralize Costa Rica, Latin America’s Liberation Party (PLN) certainly carried most centralized nation, by giving mayors the day in December’s elections, winning more funding and responsibility. 59 seats, but municipal leaders also include representatives of local parties; experi- ESCAZÚ, enced politicians, as well as newcomers; 10 San José women; and a range of ages from 24 to 68. Marco Antonio Segura, 67 With the administration of President Economist, accountant Oscar Arias touting plans to provide may- PLN ors with increased funding and introduce Second term legal reforms that would give them more Budget: ¢4.88 billion ($9.4 million) clout (TT, Jan. 26), these leaders may have Territorial extension: 34.49 a more prominent role than their prede- Goals: Segura told cessors. The Tico Times The Tico Times asked several mayors that his canton, from around the country to explain their which boasts the plans to address the biggest challenges fac- highest human- ing their cantons. In selecting this group development Roy Arguedas Arias | Tico Times from the 81 new leaders, we attempted to index in the coun- represent various political parties and both try, nonetheless was an advisor to the Municipal Council administration of President Abel Pacheco genders, rich cantons and poor, areas of suffers a yawning during the crisis and was elected as its (2002-2006). He plans to use municipal booming tourism development and those gap between rich president in February 2006, said the funds and solicit external aid to improve that historically have been neglected. and poor, a prob- problem was that because of bad blood the roads. The Institute for Municipal Develop- lem he plans to address by making Escazú between the council and then-mayor ment (IFAM) provided information on the country’s “most educated canton.” Percy Rodríguez of the Social Christian UPALA, Alajuela budget and territorial extension, showing Building a home for the Escazú Technical Unity Party (PUSC). The council, which Juan Acevedo, 53 the vast differences among the resources High School, now open for two years but must authorize municipal spending, Businessman available to each mayor. temporarily holding classes in elementary wouldn’t give Rodríguez the money for PLN Excerpts follow: schools (TT, July 7, 2006), is a priority, as additional trash-collection equipment. Second term is continuing career classes offered Now, Salas says, the municipality has Budget: ¢503 million ($967,000) SAN JOSÉ, through the National Training Institute solved the problem by allotting funds to Territorial extension: 1,508.7 San José (INA). Segura also plans to improve citi- repair its trucks and rent two others. He Goals: With one Johnny Araya, 49 zen safety – an area in which he said the said he expects to have better relations of the smallest Agricultural engineer canton “isn’t as bad as the rest of the with his Municipal Council based on his municipal budg- National Liberation country, but we’re not OK” – by installing past experience, and says he supports ets in the country Party (PLN) five video surveillance cameras in high- proposed reforms to give mayors a vote despite the can- Second term crime areas this year and making mobile on the councils. Other priorities in Tibás ton’s ample size, Budget: ¢25.76 billion (approximately technology accessible to the Municipal will be instituting a recycling program Acevedo said his $49.5 million) Police. In addition, Segura plans to con- through cooperation with a private foun- top priority dur- Territorial extension (square kilometers): tinue improving the local government’s dation, road repair, and creating a zoning ing his second 44.62 online services, “taking the municipality plan for the canton. term will be fin- Goals: This is to the park” by allowing residents to ishing a project Araya’s second search files or pay municipal bills using MONTES DE OCA, San José that began during his first: a canton-wide term as a popu- their computers or cell phones. Fernando Trejos, 52 cadastre, or property mapping system, larly elected Union for Change (UPC) that will give the municipality a more mayor, but he’s TIBÁS, San José Lawyer accurate view of the property taxes its First term been a municipal Jorge Antonio Salas, 53 residents should be paying. The munici- Budget: ¢2.12 billion ($4 million) leader for 20 Lawyer pality has been working in conjunction Territorial extension: 15.16 years. He served Citizen Action Party (PAC) with the National Cadastre Plan to First term Goals: The 48-year on the city’s update its data, hoping to reduce munic- Municipal Budget: ¢1.73 billion ($3.3 million) Montes de Oca Territorial extension: 8.15 resident has ipal tax evasion, which in Upala is Council from approximately 61%, Acevedo said. 1982-1986 and was appointed the Goals: Salas says watched his can- his top priority ton, home to the Because Upala, one of the country’s Municipal Executive, then the mayor, from poorest cantons, doesn’t have major 1991-2002, when the first-ever popular will be trash col- University of tourism draws or multinational corpora- municipal elections were held. This politi- lection, and that’s Costa Rica (UCR) tions to boost income, improving proper- cal longevity has made Araya a prominent not surprising. His and Universidad figure on a national level, and also a hard canton has Latina, become ty assessment and tax collection is the man to interview, as two weeks of our become infamous home to night- only way to give the municipality more unsuccessful attempts proved. In his lofty for what was mare traffic and resources, he said. What would he do inauguration speech on Monday, however, arguably the rising crime, with the infamous Calle de with increased funds? He’s working on Araya outlined some of his plans, fore- biggest municipal la Amargura – the “Street of Bitterness” improvements to the sewer network – a most among them the urban renewal pro- disaster in recent and thumping nightclubs – drawing group of University of Costa Rica (UCR) posal “San José Posible,” which seeks to memory: the Tibás garbage crisis. For near-constant media attention. Trejos students have been visiting Upala to help make the downtown area more pedestri- months, hundreds of tons of trash piled wants to revive the canton’s Municipal with preliminary studies – and creating a an-friendly and reorganize traffic. He also up on the streets of the northern San José Police force, abandoned five years ago, in zoning plan for the canton. He said the pledged his support for the Tropical suburb, causing the proliferation of part by increasing municipal taxes. The Northern Zone Development Council, Architecture Institute’s proposal to plant odors, rats, and mosquitoes, as well as canton’s roads take a beating because which the central government created last trees and plants to make San José a green- protests that drew national attention. The traffic from San José to eastern Central year to allow municipal leaders from er place. Security-wise, Araya plans to cre- problem was solved only after the gov- Valley towns such as Tres Ríos and Upala and neighboring cantons to meet ate a Citizen Safety Council to coordinate ernment declared a state of emergency in Cartago must pass through small roads with authorities from the Presidency the municipality’s efforts with the Public Tibás and the National Emergency in San Pedro that weren’t intended for Ministry and other central institutions, Security Ministry, Judicial Investigation Commission (CNE) took over trash col- buses and trucks, according to Trejos, “will help a great deal because it provides Police (OIJ), Immigration and other lection (TT, May 19, 2006). Salas, who who served as Labor Minister during the more direct access to the government.” THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | NEWS | 9

FLORES, Heredia the surrounding area for better tourism- Arias administration “couldn’t be better” so Jenny Alfaro industry jobs. Finally, Monge plans to far, said Barboza, who plans to install sur- The New Mayors Business administrator improve municipal tax collection to boost veillance cameras on every street corner in PAC the budget to ¢3 billion (approximately central Limón within the first few months SAN JOSÉ First term $5.8 million) by 2009. of his term in an effort to give citizens “the Central Johnny Araya, National Liberation Party (PLN) Budget: ¢443 million ($852,903) chance to walk calmly on the street again.” Escazú Marco Antonio Segura, PLN Territorial extension: 6.96 GOLFITO, Puntarenas Desamparados Maureen Fallas, PLN Puriscal Jorge Luis Chaves, PLN Goals: Flores’ first Jimmy José Cubillo, 45 LIBERIA, Guanacaste Tarrazú Iván Suárez, PLN priority is attend- Business advisor Carlos Luis Marín, 43 Aserrí Mario Morales, PLN ing to a dilapidat- PLN Administrative assistant Mora Gilberto Monge, PLN ed aqueduct that Second term (served as Municipal PLN Goicoechea Oscar Enrique Figueroa, PLN has 20% of her Executive, 1996-1998) First term Santa Ana Gerardo Oviedo, PLN canton’s popula- Budget: ¢591 million ($1.1 million). Budget: ¢1.67 billion ($3.2 million) Alajuelita Tomás Poblador, PLN Territorial extension: 1,753.96 Territorial extension: 1,436.47 Vásquez de Coronado Leonardo Herrera, PLN tion without Acosta Rónald Durán, PLN water. She says it Goals: According to Goals: For Marín, Tibás Jorge Antonio Salas, Citizen Action Party (PAC) “hasn’t received Cubillo, Golfito is a it’s crucial that Moravia Edgar Vargas, PAC any maintenance canton of terrible Liberia prepare its Montes de Oca Fernando Trejos, Union for Change (UPC) for years – they’ve contrasts. Despite citizens to take Turrubares Rafael Vindas, Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC) been putting patches on it.” Second, she natural resources advantage of the Dota José Valverde, PLN plans to find out what’s holding up Flores’ and a booming real estate and Curridabat Edgar Mora, Curridabat 21st Century Party zoning plan, which was completed three investment climate, tourism boom that Pérez Zeledón Rosibel Ramos, PUSC it’s one of the León Cortés Leonardo Quesada, PLN years ago but since then has been awaiting surrounds them – ALAJUELA approval by the National Institute for country’s poorest a theme other Central Joyce Zürcher, PLN Housing and Urban Development cantons, with a mayors of cantons San Ramón Raúl Antonio Gómez, PLN (INVU). Once approved, the plan will 39% poverty rate. with high levels of Grecia Giovanny Arguedas, PLN allow the small canton to organize its Its population is dropping, he says, foreign investment, such as Aguirre and San Mateo Erwen Yanán Masis, PUSC development, restructure the municipality though the opposite should be taking Escazú, echoed. The new mayor, who Atenas Wilberth Martín Aguilar, PUSC Naranjo Eugenio Padilla, PLN and make other changes. Improving the place, given the area’s potential. To address spoke to The Tico Times before a munici- this problem, which Cubillo attributes to Palmares Luis Carlos Castillo, PLN municipality’s treatment of its clients, cre- pal conference at Casa Presidencial in San Poás José Joaquín Brenes, PLN ating a “preventive police force” to address central government neglect and local fail- José last month, said he hopes to work Orotina Emilio Jesús Rodríguez, PLN rising crime, and coordinating with the ures, the mayor wants to offer simpler, closely with the central government to San Carlos Alfredo Córdoba , PLN central government to establish a daycare speedier services to both local and foreign accomplish this goal. In particular, he Alfaro Ruiz Marco Vinicio Rodríguez, PLN center so single moms with limited investors, and improve infrastructure. He plans to work with the Labor Ministry to Valverde Vega Víctor Manuel Rojas, PUSC hopes both steps will attract more busi- create a Liberia employment directory Upala Juan Acevedo, PLN resources can hold down a job are Los Chiles Santiago Millón, PLN among Alfaro’s other goals. For mayors’ nesses and create jobs. He also seeks to that would allow businesses opening up decentralize the government of the sprawl- Guatuso Fidel Condega, PLN universal priority – improving infrastruc- shop in the canton to find local laborers CARTAGO ture – she plans to put power in the hands ing canton, where two sizeable towns – and services to meet their needs. His other Cartago Rolando Alberto Brenes, PLN of neighborhood associations and district Puerto Jiménez and Pavones – lie approxi- goals for his four-year term include Paraíso Marvin Solano, Libertarian Movement (ML) councils, granting them 25-50% of the mately 170 km and 80 km from Golfito improving infrastructure and opening a La Unión Julio Antonio Rojas, PLN infrastructure budget. “It’s the people through circuitous land routes, making it Guanacaste Museum in Liberia’s old Jiménez Jorge Humberto Solano, PLN next to impossible for their residents to police headquarters. Turrialba Luis Alfonso Pérez, PLN from the barrio who know what the needs Alvarado Angel Raquel López, PLN are,” Alfaro said. “Those councils were cre- access municipal services. By creating dis- trict councils in both towns and empower- Oreamuno Marco Vinicio Redondo, PAC ated on paper, but they haven’t had SANTA CRUZ, Guanacaste El Guarco William Adolfo Cerdas, PLN power.” ing them, rather than requiring that the Jorge Enrique Chavarría, 55 HEREDIA mayor sign off on most decisions, Cubillo Administrator, veterinarian Heredia José Manuel Ulate, PLN AGUIRRE, Puntarenas said living conditions will improve. PLN Barva Mercedes Hernández, PLN Oscar Monge, 60 Though many of his colleagues say mayors First term Santo Domingo Raúl Isidro Bolaños, PLN need more power, not less, Golfito’s new Budget: ¢2.38 billion ($4.6 million) Santa Bárbara Rolando Hidalgo, PLN Author San Rafael Alberto Vargas, PAC Aguirre Labor Organization leader said, “I don’t think any authority is Territorial extension: 1,312.27 lost by decentralizing.” San Isidro Elvia Villalobos, PLN First term Goals: As the new Belén Horacio Alvarado, PUSC Budget: ¢860 million ($1.7 million) mayor of Santa Flores Jenny Alfaro, PAC Territorial Extension: 543.77 LIMÓN, Limón Cruz, Chavarría San Pablo Aracelly Salas, PUSC Goals: Monge – Eduardo Barboza, 43 will be in charge Sarapiquí Pedro Rojas, PLN whose latest liter- Lawyer of managing GUANACASTE PLN booming tourism Liberia Carlos Luis Marín, PLN ary creation is “El Nicoya Lorenzo Rosales, PLN Último Sello” First term destinations such Budget: ¢1.97 billion ($3.8 million) as Tamarindo, Santa Cruz Jorge Enrique Chavarría, PLN (“The Last Seal”), Bagaces Luis Angel Rojas, PLN loosely based on Territorial extension: 1,765.79 where one of his Carrillo Carlos Gerardo Cantillo, PLN corruption in his Goals: “Because predecessors ran Cañas Katia María Solórzano, PLN central Pacific Limón is the face into some trouble Abangares Jorge Calvo, PLN canton – says he’s of Costa Rica in – Pastor Gómez was suspended last year Tilarán Jovel Arias, PUSC the Caribbean, we by a San José criminal court investigat- Nandayure Luis Rodríguez, National Union Party (PUN) going to follow the La Cruz Carlos Matías Gonzaga, PLN letter of the need a privileged ing an allegedly shady concessions deal. position,” Barboza Chavarría, unsurprisingly, asserts that Hojancha Juan Rafael Marín, PLN Maritime Zone Law when it comes to the PUNTARENAS area’s coveted beachfront spots. (In the told The Tico “we’re going to ensure the laws are com- Puntarenas Agne Gómez, PLN past, demolitions of structures built with- Times. He was plied with… everything will be normal.” Esparza Dagoberto Venegas, PUSC in the protected zone have caused contro- referring to plans He said his top priorities include Buenos Aires Primo Feliciano Alvarez, PLN versy and protests in Aguirre, as in other to build a mega- improving infrastructure and building a Montes de Oro Alvaro Jiménez, PLN coastal cantons.) As mayor, Monge will let port in his coastal garbage facility near the town of Santa Osa Jorge Alberto Cole, PLN canton, but he could have been speaking in Cruz to improve sanitary conditions in Aguirre Oscar Monge Aguirre, Labor Organization the Comptroller General’s Office dictate Golfito Jimmy José Cubillo, PLN the municipality’s enforcement of the law, general terms: over the years, Limón, the canton. He also hopes to give the town a Santa Cruz Theater for folkloric Coto Brus Rafael Angel Navarro, PUSC he said. He also plans to take a nature- plagued by unemployment and crime, has Parrita Gerardo Róger Acuña, PLN friendly approach to stimulating tourism: long been neglected by the central govern- presentations and other cultural attrac- Corredores Gerardo Ramírez, PLN in his canton’s hot spots such as Manuel ment. The ambitious Barboza plans to tions, and a modern health clinic. Last Garabito Marvin Elizondo, PLN Antonio and Quepos, tourism is growing make Limón the most developed canton in but not least, Chavarría said he plans to LIMON out of control, damaging the environment the country, pinning his hopes on a new oil work with the Public Security Ministry Central Eduardo Barboza, PLN but also providing employment to many refinery that would provide 1,000 jobs; the to expand the Municipal Police force Pococí Enrique Alfaro Vargas, PLN mega-port, which President Oscar Arias from 13 officers to 98, improve training, Siquirres Edgar Cambronero, Communal Action Party families. To create a better balance, Monge Talamanca Rugeli Morales, PUSC will push eco-tourism projects and lobby threw his weight behind during a visit to and focus the new forces on Tamarindo. Though a first-time mayor, Chavarría Matina Lorenzo Colphan, PLN for the Legislative Assembly to approve Limón earlier this month; and increased Guácimo Gerardo Fuentes, PLN plans for the Central Pacific Technological cooperation between the municipality and said he has been involved in municipal Institute, to train people in Quepos and private businesses. Coordination with the politics in Santa Cruz for years. Source: Institute for Municipal Development (IFAM) 10 | NEWS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

CENTRAL AMERICAÕS LEADING ENGLISH-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER 2978 8358 8238 THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | NEWS | 11 Gov’t Plans to Regulate Chemical Waste

Page 1 while many companies are responsible, and added. Certain chemicals, especially those however, are already overflowing and many properly treat or store their materials, haz- that contain chlorine, release dangerous are under orders to close, but can’t because of became an explosive blaze (TT, Nov. 3, 2006). ardous waste often ends up in Costa Rica’s byproducts into the air when burned, specif- a lack of options (TT, Oct. 13, 2006). In both cases, investigators have traced conventional dumps or, even worse, in its ically dioxins and furans, which are carcino- “There’s no more room,” Navarro said. the causes of the accidents to workers ignor- rivers and even city streets, he said. gens and neurotoxins. The Stockholm While acknowledging Costa Rica’s short- ing safety procedures, and have found the On Jan. 16, children in the southern San Convention, to which Costa Rica is a party, comings, Navarro was quick to point out the disasters were made worse by a lack of prop- José district of Desamparados discovered an requires nations to curb production of diox- efforts being made in the current adminis- er or functioning safety equipment. The gas abandoned barrel that, when opened, released ins and furans, he explained. tration to improve the country’s handling of station, for example, lacked an emergency toxic gases. Approximately 12 of the kids were In Costa Rica, chemical disposal falls into dangerous chemicals. shutoff switch, while the chemical plant had hospitalized for symptoms including eye and the government’s hands in cases of chemical In what appears to be a direct response to containment dikes – meant to keep a fuel throat irritation, dizziness and vomiting. accidents, Navarro said. In that case, officials the Moín fire – though officials were vague – spill or fire from spreading – that were small- “In this case, what do we do with this have two options: store them in a landfill, or Navarro’s office is in the midst of a total over- er than required and had deteriorated. chemical product? We don’t even know what burn them in a giant oven at the Holcim haul of the supervision of all companies that The response has been public: last week, in it is,” Chaves continued. cement factory in Cartago, east of San José. deal with chemical substances, and classifying front of a throng of journalists, Environment The fire chief said his department responds That’s what authorities did with the various the materials according to a variety of attrib- and Energy Minister Roberto Dobles to about 12 chemical emergencies a month, chemicals left over from the Moín fire. utes, such as whether they are flammable, cor- announced the launch of a nationwide inspec- including minor incidents such as gas leaks. Holcim, a Costa Rica subsidiary of the rosive or toxic, as well as examining the com- tion of every gas station in Costa Rica (TT, “They are few, but they can have a seri- Swiss-based company of the same name, panies’ locations. The Moín disaster took on Feb. 2). During the first week of inspections, ous impact,” he said, adding that, while burns 10,000 tons of environmentally harmful much larger proportions when it was discov- officials shut down a gas station in Heredia, improperly disposing of chemical waste is waste, confiscated drugs and confidential doc- ered a spring that supplied water for 20,000 north of San José, for various violations. The against the law, he has never seen a company uments yearly (TT, Dec. 16, 2005). Because the area residents was fewer than 75 meters from station where the siblings died was also fined or otherwise punished for it. plant’s ovens must reach extremely high tem- the plant. After daily monitoring, the National ordered to remain closed. Arturo Navarro, an industrial chemist peratures (between 900 and 2,200 degrees Water and Sewer Institute (AyA) declared the Last month, officials with the Public with the Public Health Ministry’s Depart- Celsius, or 1,652 and 3,992 degrees water suitable for human consumption more Health Ministry began conducting a diag- ment of Human Environment Protection, Fahrenheit) to manufacture cement, they are than a month later (TT, Jan. 26). nostic of every business and industry that told The Tico Times that the supervision of ideal for destroying waste because the elevated Navarro said he had found “around 20 deals with possibly hazardous chemicals chemical handling in Costa Rica is “absolute- temperatures eliminate the nasty byproducts. highly dangerous companies,” but did not (including petroleum), evaluating their ly not” sufficient, and the country “needs to However, Navarro said, not all chemi- provide further details. emergency preparedness and working on improve a lot more.” cals can be disposed of at Holcim. “A lot” of Each company is being asked to present a new legislation and safety regulations. Navarro confirmed that chemical waste chemical waste is sitting in Costa Rican report on its management of chemicals as According to Héctor Chaves, head of the disposal is left up to companies, which are landfills, he said. well as emergency response plans and safety National Insurance Institute’s Firefighters monitored by regional Health Ministry offices. “We are trying to lessen the use of land- infrastructure. That information will be Corps, one serious problem Costa Rica faces Private companies are expected to present an fills. It is not a suitable option,”Navarro said. compiled in a report to be presented within is how to dispose of the waste and residue operations plan to the local authorities Currently, the La Carpio landfill in west- weeks to a new government committee. left after chemical accidents, as well as that approximately twice per year that describes ern San José run by EBI Berthier de Costa Officials from the Health and Environ- which is produced in the standard opera- how they deal with their materials. However, Rica, a subsidiary of EBI Berthier in Canada, is ment ministries are also working to prepare tions of many industries. the Health Ministry official said, “we need to the only dump in the country authorized to a bill that would set new regulations and “This country does not have a center to be more aggressive with monitoring.” take what is called “special waste,” such as procedures for the handling of liquid, gas deposit dangerous materials,” Chaves said. “Some companies have been burning chemical leftovers, which must be specially and solid chemical waste, and create both a The disposal of chemical waste is left up to (their chemical waste), which is not in accor- treated and stored in “an impenetrable cell,” regulatory agency and a monitoring agency individual companies, he explained. And dance with international standards,” he Navarro explained. Costa Rica’s other landfills, to oversee and enforce the new rules.

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www.purosdawa.com [email protected] 8208 8452 12 | BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

Business Real Estate Lawsuit Delays CAFTA Discussion in Assembly By Blake Schmidt fast-track legislative reform will make it past strategy; a group of indigenous people from U.S. Department of Commerce. Tico Times Staff constitutional review before discussion on the southern Caribbean region of Ta- In a Feb. 8 meeting between Solís and the pact begins. lamanca traveled to the capital to demand a Arias, Arias confirmed Solís’ statement that The longer un- Besides Liberation, which has 25 of 57 fair say in CAFTA; and PAC made sure to the United States doesn’t plan to eliminate til the Central A- legislators, the other parties in the bloc bring to everyone’s attention potential con- trade preferences of the initiative if Costa merican Free-Tra- include the six-member Libertarian Mo- flicts of interest that CAFTA-bloc legisla- Rica doesn’t ratify CAFTA. Costa Rica is the de Agreement with vement, the five-member Social Christian tors may have in supporting the opening of only signatory yet to vote on CAFTA. the United States Unity Party (PUSC), and one-member par- the telecom market as required under “It’s true. At least they’ve never told me (CAFTA) reaches a ties National Restoration and National CAFTA. that they’re thinking about doing that,”Arias vote in the Legis- Union. The parties have been politicking in A new round of free-trade verbal jousting told the daily La Nación. lative Assembly, the recent weeks to agree on a complimentary began after PAC founder and presidential Part of the initiative is set to expire, longer an emerging and social agenda that would be passed with runner-up Solís returned from a trip to the however. An act passed by President Bill pro-CAFTA bloc will have to remain united, CAFTA (TT, Feb. 2) United States last week, where he met with Clinton in 2000, which allowed apparel legislator Janina Del Vecchio said this week. However, an opposition bloc has also U.S. congressmen and aides (TT, Feb. 2). manufactured in CBI countries using U.S. After opponents slowed attempts to emerged, composed of the 17 Citizen Solís pointed a finger at Arias for using fabric, among other products (i.e. certain send CAFTA on a fast track last week, sup- Action Party (PAC) legislators and two one- what he called a “fear campaign” to push the footwear, tuna, petroleum products, watch- porters of the controversial trade pact ques- member parties: Broad Front and Access CAFTA agenda. es, and luggage) to be exported into the tioned whether the five-party pro-CAFTA Without Exclusion. He said that during his U.S. visit he con- United States duty-free, will expire in coalition can endure the lengthy legislative A proposed legislative reform that sulted members of the Democratic Party – September 2008. The 2000 act demanded process to come. would put CAFTA on a fast track was which swept November elections and raised that countries make progress in worker “We have to maintain that block of 38 slowed last week when the opposition bloc concerns worldwide over how protectionist rights, intellectual property, environmental (legislators). It’s a tight block,” said Del Ve- asked the Constitutional Chamber of the the new Congress will be. Solís said everyone protections and support the U.S.-led war cchio, president of the International Affairs Supreme Court (Sala IV) to weigh in on the he consulted said the benefits of the on drugs. commission that has spent the past year proposal’s constitutionality. The court has a Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) will not Solís said CAFTA will bring Costa Rica debating CAFTA. month to opine. necessarily expire – statements that caused few additional benefits beyond the existing The bloc was created in recent weeks in a The fast-track measure would reform the confusion back in Costa Rica. CBI agreement, which is why he has been series of political negotiations in which the assembly’s regulations, allowing legislators The CBI is a U.S. program aimed at pro- pushing for the renegotiation of CAFTA. National Liberation Party (PLN), which to speed up CAFTA’s vote by limiting the moting economic development in Central Presidency Minister Rodrigo Arias fired brought pro-CAFTA President Oscar Arias number of sessions legislators can spend America and the Caribbean by diversifying back this week, saying, “it’s not the same to to power last year, tried to scrape up some debating it to 22, according to Del Vecchio. CBI country economies and expanding be granted a unilateral concession as to have political capital by offering potential CAFTA The legislative trámite of CAFTA wasn’t their exports. The initiative refers to three a bilateral agreement.” allies support for their initiatives. the only battlefront in the free-trade debate different acts passed between 1983 and Being a unilateral agreement, Minister CAFTA is on the agenda to be discussed this week. Former presidential candidate and 2000 in the wake of regional disasters and Arias pointed out, the CBI can be modified, on the assembly floor, but Liberation legisla- opposition leader Ottón Solís used his recent civil wars, and guarantees duty-free treat- suspended or eliminated by the United tor Del Vecchio told The Tico Times law- trip to Washington D.C. to cast some shad- ment for most exports from the Caribbean States at anytime. makers will wait to see whether a proposed ows on the Arias administration’s CAFTA Basin region to the U.S., according to the Page 14

Economic Indicators

Feb. 1-7 | Current Values and Percentage Change U.S. DOLLAR EXCHANGE RATE* BNV STOCK EXCHANGE

BUY: ¢517.17 0.012% ALL PRICES IN MILLIONS (¢ and U.S.$) SELL: ¢521.19 0.27% VOLUME ¢378,756.56 26%

*Wednesday’s Central Bank reference rate. BY CURRENCY: See www.ticotimes.net for daily updates. COLONES ¢232,024 23.72% US$ $279.79 28.95% INFLATION BY ISSUER: LAST MONTH PAST 12 MONTHS ACCRUED ‘06 GOV’T ¢341,893 24.54% 0.95% 9.19% 0.95% PRIVATE ¢36,862 41.39% DEVALUATION MOST ACTIVE STOCKS

LAST MONTH PAST 12 MONTHS ACCRUED ‘06 Stock Volume (Millions) Last Price Change 0.38% 4.07% 0.38% Atlas Eléctrica, S.A. (common) ¢4.74 ¢41.95 -4.66% Corporación Improsa, S.A. ¢2.56 ¢4.11 2.49%

SOURCE: SC Consulting Group 5333 U.S. Tax And Accounting Specializing in Tax Preparation for U.S Tax payers Living Abroad & Great Property and business opportunity in the Located at Los Sueños Resort To assist you with Costa Rican Heredia Mountains, just 16 km from the and Marina, main entrance International Airport. Beautiful panoramic views. It Taxes and other Business needs. has a Restaurant and Bar with all permits up to Don’t miss this excellent opportunity date, main house with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, to rent one of the 3 spaces big kitchen and huge storage room, there's also a small cabin with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, kitchen and left available for food, 288-2201 living room with fireplace. 4 big dog cages, and 3 souvenirs and clothes store. horse stables, the property is surrounded by beau- Over 10 years experiences in Costa Rica tiful gardens. Perfect for cabin development or Contact us at 811-3398 or 625-8039 small hotel. Total Area 5,600 m2, total construction [email protected] 1,000 sqm aprox. Phone. (506) 810 4649

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ART | CULTURE | ENTERTAINMENT | FEBRUARY 9, 2007 Love Is On The Air DJs, Newlyweds Margie and Dave Team Up

By Dave Sherwood Tico Times Staff

ll right, everyone relax: DJs Dave “the Dude” and Margie, of Costa Rican A English-language radio fame, are coming back. But you’ll have to retune your dial to listen to them; their new venue is 99.5 FM Radio Dos. And by the way, they got married, too. “Everyone’s happy. It’s like a big love story,” said Dave Scott, who has been entertaining listeners with good music, good humor and his trademark English accent for 11 years. So what’s with all the changes? “New love, new station, new music,” Scott said. “We wanted to work together.” Getting married was step one. “I’ve been asking her to marry me every year since I met her. She finally said ‘yes’ last year. I was stunned,” he said. It’s quite the leap of faith for this free- wheeling DJ, blues musician and veteran of the music industry, who went 64 years before tying the knot. Beginning next week, listeners can enjoy the newlyweds together – they’ve not only joined in marriage, but in radio, too. Their new show, “Buenos Días, Costa Rica,” will air for the first time on Valentine’s Day, Feb 14. The duo is thrilled at the opportunity. “She’s such a pro. She’s funny; I can bounce stuff off her. And besides, she’s got the perfect face for radio,” said Scott with a smirk and laugh over coffee last week. “We laugh all day. I wish everyone could feel like we do,” said the blonde, blue-eyed Chelcey Adami | Tico Times and boisterous Margie Flaum, who expects New Love, New Show: Radio DJs Dave “the Dude” Scott and Margie Flaum, recently married, will air their new show, listeners will be laughing, too. One thing that won’t change is the hour; “Buenos Días, Costa Rica,” on Radio Dos for the first time this Valentine’s Day. the new show will air from 6 to 9 a.m. week- day mornings. Evan Luck, former morning- beaches, and restaurants and bars in the San in the Central Valley as before – and even have a job you love, like we do.” show DJ at 99.5, has chosen to take the after- José area. around the world through live-streaming The duo’s new show will air at the same noon slot, a welcome change after six years “I’m excited, too. It’ll give us all a chance Internet radio. time as Scott’s old one, and both confess it of early rising. to try something new,” Luck said. “We get an amazing mix of people who will be nice to have some company when the “It worked out perfectly; Evan is a night Together, the three will practically listen to our radio show. A lot of Ticos listen alarm sings at their home in the western sub- person – he was getting tired of waking up so monopolize English-language radio in to learn English. It’s great. I love the mix,” urb of Escazú. early – and we can’t stay up late,” Scott said. Costa Rica, providing listeners with good said Scott, who has never considered his “It can be lonely that early in the morning, The first show will feature Luck, Scott and tunes and entertainment that many, Ticos work on the radio a “job.” headed to work,” Flaum said. “Now we’ll Flaum together. After that, Luck moves to and foreigners alike, have come to take for “Music is our life,” Scott said. “Some peo- have company.” the evening slot, from 5 to 7 p.m., where he’ll granted. Better still, their show will now be ple go to work, and do a job their whole lives Listeners will be able to enjoy the good pick up more live broadcasts from the broadcast throughout the country – not just and don’t like it. I think it’s so important to company, too.

INSIDE Alajuela Boasts New Arenal Residents Live Taste of the Tropics: Director David King Municipal Theater With Active Volcano Pejibaye and Palmito Returns to LTG

Page W7 Page W8 Page W10 Page W16 W2 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Tamarindo Talk John Brown, Philine Nugteren, Andrés If you are looking for native Costa Rican found a buyer. Remaining tennis players Marín, Alex Orias and many others. souvenirs for family and friends when visit- hope the courts – and perhaps the swim- The first Tamarindo town meeting, host- Alex will be DJing on that same boat Feb. ing here in Flamingo, take a few moments ming pool and fitness room – will be open ed by the Tamarindo Improvement Associ- 17, for the Maximal Crossfade Summer to stop by the Nativo Costa Rica shop on again before long. ation, drew a large, mixed group of commu- Tour 2007. He’s on a bill with his usual the second floor of the Flamingo Beach The Hotel Tilawa’s biggest art show yet is nity members to Hotel Pasatiempo. At the partner, Spain’s De Sostoa, opening for Hotel. Jose Elkin Gómez from Colombia just five days away. On Valentine’s Day, local microphone, association vice-president highly recognized DJs from Cancún Robbie has moved here to make a better life for artists will be joined by artists from San José Sandi May and director Jessica Del Rossi + Barrack. There are two other DJs as well. himself. Check out his handmade wares and in exhibiting and selling their paintings, bilingually outlined the six areas of focus on For more information, call 653-0114. local crafts made of wood, shells and ceramics, sculptures and jewelry. The show which the previous administration had New yoga outfit Voice of Environmental threads. For more information, call 654- opens at 2 p.m. Meanwhile, the hotel’s ten- commenced work. The crowd was then Change (VOEC), at Suite 5, Galleria del 4410, extension 3147, or 815-1252. nis court, swimming pool, spa and bar will guided toward various tables representing Mar, is hosting a “green community forum” A new 2007 telephone directory is now be open to residents as usual on the new committees, taking up the mantle tomorrow. The idea is to teach participants available for the Tamarindo (primarily), Wednesdays. of the tasks at hand for the entire area of how to become involved in environmental Flamingo, Potrero, Playa Grande, Playa –Alex Murray Tamarindo, including Villarreal, Santa Rosa, programs and initiatives that will help Negra and surrounding areas. It is a high- [email protected] a portion of San José de Pinilla, Hernández, Tamarindo become a healthier and more quality, professionally photographed and Cañafístula, Linderos, Cebadilla and more. sustainable community. bound book that is great for your home or Notes from Puerto Viejo These groups included: 1) enforcement of The program, jointly hosted by the office. It includes important and emergency De Talamanca Costa Rican laws in the Tamarindo area, Barracuda Art Gallery, also in Galleria Del phone numbers, small local maps of the headed by Brock Menking, Francisco Mar, begins at 5:30 p.m. with music, circus beaches, business advertisements and of acts, food, drinks and meditation. course many residential and business num- Beto Torres of Legalize Surf School in Saborio and Walter Hoevel; 2) work to pass Puerto Viejo is organizing the Legalize It a plan regulador for sustainable develop- Meanwhile, pick up a yoga schedule at bers. To have your name or business includ- VOEC, which offers more than 24 classes a ed for next year’s edition or to get a copy, e- Surf Tournament for Feb. 17 and 18. This is ment that also includes clarification of the an annual event to promote surfing on the Green Zones and Adopt-a-Park programs, week, including hatha, anusara, ashtanga, mail [email protected]. flow, iyengar, sivananda and restorative The Playa Flamingo Improvement Asso- Caribbean coast. For info, contact Beto at headed by Sandi, Janet Raftis and Jerry 885-9688 or [email protected]. Smith; 3) Blue Flag program, headed by yoga, as well as yoga for tots, kids, kinder ciation held a general assembly meeting Jan. and “Mommy and Me.” For info, call 653- 27 to report an update of the past year’s –Wendy Strebe association president Jorge Calvo, which [email protected] encompasses the Tamarindo Lifeguards and 0852 or visit www.VOECretreats.com. events. Rene Bount, treasurer, and Chantal anything to do with the beaches; 4) black- Debbie Turner, who publishes The Shop Willemse, fiscal, have stepped down from water treatment plans, headed by Bernal and The Menu magazines, let me know that their positions, and a midterm election was Manuel Antonio/ Navarro for Active Citizens for Tamarindo I missed out on announcing the opening of held for their replacements. Eugenio Vargas Quepos Tidings (ACT), Griet Depypere and José Sandoval; the big appliance store Importadora Monge is now the new fiscal and Bill Brady the 5) crime prevention and security, headed by at Villarreal Construcenter. A grand open- new treasurer. Craig Macklin was voted in Good news! Banco Nacional in Quepos is Grant McLean; and 6) infrastructure issues ing was held Feb. 2, including fireworks, as the new vocal to replace Bill Brady. now open Saturdays for teller transactions including roads and parking concerns, dancers and live models. –Babe Hopkins from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. headed by ACT. Happy birthday to Suzy Lawson and [email protected] Congratulations to chef Cristian López, Monthly meetings were set for the first Sarah Pfeiffer on Jan. 31, Brooks Wilson who has worked as a chef in Manuel Anton- Friday of every month; one took place last on Feb. 5 and Francesco Sassi today. Arenal Report io for many years. He has just opened up week at Las Baulas, and the next is set for –Ellen Zoe Golden his own restaurant in Playa Matapalo called March 2, once again at 4 p.m. at Hotel Pasa- [email protected] Citizen activism has put the brakes on Restaurante Vista del Mar, in front of the tiempo. Everyone is invited to attend and the imposing new U.S.-style, multi-store plaza de deportes with an ocean view. Karen participate. For more information, e-mail Flamingo/Potrero News gas station at the Cañas highway’s entrance Alpízar and family will also be working in the association’s board of directors at to Tilarán, putting it out of business before the restaurant. If you want to take a break [email protected]. Welcome back, Max Chellimi! Max is the gas ever filled its underground tanks, but from Manuel Antonio and Quepos, take a Banco Improsa, in partnership with son of Melissa and Richard Chellimi of not before approximately $900,000 had drive to Matapalo and have a great meal at Centro de Negocios Costa Rica, has opened Potrero/Surfside, and has returned to been invested by Tilarán businessman Restaurante Vista del Mar. For more infor- an office in the Tamarindo Business Center, Country Day School to finish out his high Carlos Adrián “Cayenne” Vargas. Tico res- mation, call 787-5122 or 390-9541. next to Azul Profundo on the main road of school education after taking a break and idents of the neighborhood atop the hill We recently received the current edition town. Most significantly, the group is offer- going to San Clemente High School in behind the gas station objected to the loca- of Explore Costa Rica, and it is beautiful. ing financing and loans to foreigners, which southern California for one quarter. Max tion of the station and found that permits Harry Pariser is the author. Featuring may be used flourished there, taking honor classes and had not been obtained for the construc- extensive and thorough coverage of our to buy homes academic prep classes. He was also selected tion. Since the construction had been area, the 648-page guide features numerous or for con- to be a player on the school’s basketball going on for months in this prominent color photos, maps, charts, a bus guide, struction and team. After he completes his schooling here location, we wonder why the municipal Spanish vocabulary and many useful tips. development. in Guanacaste, Max plans to return to the authorities did not act on their own to You can order it from any bookstore or This is a sig- United States to continue with college plans. check the permitting. directly from the publisher. Or, you can nificant new The Santa Cruz district recently held its Gringo residents who continue to ques- order it with a credit card from SCB opportunity weeklong National Folkloric Festival, which tion the permitting and practices of Lake Distributors at (800) 729-6423, or go to right here in included bull-riding competitions, dancing, Arenal developers have had some success. www.ecocostarica.com. town. For live music and a tope (horse parade). This Work on forest trails for hiking and horse- Happy Valentine’s Day to all! On Feb. 14, more info, call year, several residents from the Potrero area back riding has been suspended at one of Gaia Hotel and Reserve will be hosting a 653-2039 or participated in the parade, including Laurie the larger developments. seven-course Prix Fix Dinner accompanied 653-2041. and Dennis Schmeidge, owners of Surfside Longtime residents James and Tanya by classical music trio Tonos Finos. Guests Denis Her- Properties, Don Burrows, a part-time Hayward returned to Tronadora from the are encouraged to reserve early, as the B-day Boy: Denis Her- zog, owner of Surfside resident from Canada, and Wendy U.S. state of Colorado at the end of January evening is expected to sell out. Call 777- High Tide and Wes Johnson and Doug and Barb to complete the sale of their house and its 9797 for reservations. zog and daughter Gaelle. Adventures, Sawatsky, visitors from Canada. Kaye contents. The Haywards moved back to the Rainmaker is now offering night tours to had a great Dodge of Finca Casagua and her husband United States to give their two sons, home- see reptiles and amphibians with a natural- birthday party aboard the catamaran Esteban were the instigators in getting local schooled here for several years, the typical ist guide. For information, call 777-3565. Marina del Rey, where he celebrated with riders to participate among about 1,200 rid- North American high school experience. –Jennifer Rice his children, Luca and Gaelle, and guests, ers. It must have been an amazing experi- Meanwhile, the Arenal Country Club, [email protected] including the 80-foot boat’s new hostess ence to be in the midst of all those riders where the Haywards used to play tennis, is & Anita Myketuk Olivia Rich, Nicholas Petry, Nicole Loría, and gorgeous horses. reportedly on the block again and may have [email protected]

Community Connection welcomes reports from readers about happenings in their area of Costa Rica. Those interested in submitting reports can contact Weekend Editor Meg Yamamoto at [email protected]. We are also accepting photos of events or local happenings from readers. Please e-mail inquiries. THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W3 IN HEREDIA, Singer Johnny Dread Tours C.R. THE SAFEST CITY IN COSTA RICA By Suzanna Starcevic Dread is taking this inauspicious kickoff to Special to The Tico Times his Costa Rica tour in stride. “We’re now starting Round 2 – Revenge of Downtown Heredia t first glance, the K-9 municipal police the Dread,” he said with a laugh, referring to NOW FIESTA CASINO circling through the young Tico the remaining dates on the tour, but quickly AND BEACH BAR! Acrowd at Bar Roots in the eastern San added, “No, there must have been a reason José suburb of San Pedro seemed like an we weren’t supposed to play.” 50 ROOMS, inevitable profiling prelude to the Johnny Dread is no stranger to Costa Rica and the EACH WITH: ¥ Bathroom Dread concert scheduled that night. But soon stumbling blocks it poses for touring musi- ¥ Solar-heated after, the packed house began filing slowly cians. But since 2001, when he first performed water at a major concert as part of the oil-drilling ¥ Direct-dial out of the bar as a resigned-looking doorman telephone peeled refunds off a thick stack of colones. protests in the southern Caribbean beach ¥ Fan Big police raids may be great for TV, but town of Puerto Viejo, he has pulled together a ¥ Cable TV ¥ Laundry reggae concerts? Not so much. grassroots system that – for the most part – ¥ Restaurant “I think it’s the music – they don’t under- works. A local band, built up from previous ¥ Conference stand what it is,”said the Miami-based singer visits to the country and featuring talent from Room ¥ Media Facilities in a telephone interview a few days after the groups such as Mekatelyu and Bamaselo ¥ Free Parking Lot cancelled show. “Sure, there might be a little Reggae, backs up his Caribbean, Afro-Cuban $40 Single / $50 Double / $60 Triple marijuana, but it’s clean … It didn’t have to and rock-influenced sounds. Tel. (506) 260-92-92 fax (506) 260-9293 be an underage drinker – five (police) cars “If you’re here to score big, this (reggae with dogs showed up – something was going music) is not it,” he said. “It’s more about 100 mts to happen.” bringing the vibe.” north, The former college basketball star and ✂ 100 mts Yet, true to his laid-back Rasta roots, west of hotel management student’s musical career the Post Upcoming Concerts includes a stint with Anthony Booker (Bob Courtesy of Kuyata-Zito Entertainment / Fabrika Music Office Marley’s stepbrother), Ras Bagga and other 10 rooms Feb. 9: Salon Monrio, Turrialba (Caribbean slope) well-known reggae musicians. As Copacetic, Bringing the Reggae: Singer Johnny each with: the group recorded “Ghetto Rock,” which ¥Bathroom Feb. 15: Bar Babylon, Tamarindo (Guanacaste) Dread will be touring around the reached number seven on the Billboard ¥Hot water Feb. 17: Lizard Lounge, Playas del Coco Reggae Charts in 1990. The following year, country through February. ¥Cable TV ¥Fan (Guanacaste) Dread struck out solo. ¥Restaurant Feb. 18: Monteverde Amphitheater (north-central With nods to The Beatles, Bob Dylan, The parents in the United States, the singer’s con- and Bar region) Police and Bob Marley, Dread is largely fident Spanish doubtlessly also goes a long ¥Free about consciousness-raising lyrics. But he way toward keeping up the onstage banter in Parking Lot Feb. 20: El Observatorio, San José says playing in non-English-speaking coun- Latino countries – and he has a lot to say. $17 Single / $27 Double / $37 Triple tries is never a problem – the message truly Dread does not expect any more show- Feb. 24: Rippers, Playa Hermosa (Central Pacific) (506) 262-26-28 becomes the medium. stopping glitches, and will be performing at Feb. 25: Afternoon show at Roca Verde, Dominical “We connect with the heart,” he said. several venues around the country this (Southern Zone) “(Costa Rica) is a humble land, with no real month (see box). For information about his Schedule subject to change. strife … it’s a cool little place I like to come to.” music, go to www.johnnydreadmusic.com. Born Juan Carlos Guardiola to Cuban For concert info, call 863-0395.

TOTALLY RENEWED! We have apartments 65 Days for Building Peace: peace through meditation, prayer or dis- the solution is in recuperating our values.” with monthly rates cussion groups. For this reason, the aim of the season’s It is a colonial house 10th Season for Nonviolence Activities should be designed to promote activities is to create an awareness of the with 12 rooms, each with private bathroom and strengthen good values and attitudes principals and practices of nonviolence as a and solar hot water, and For the 10th year, Costa Rica will cele- such as respect for life and human dignity, way of recuperating values and reducing cable TV ¥Green areas brate the World Season for Nonviolence, a justice, solidarity and tolerance within the violence. Participating groups include gov- to rest ¥Free Parking Lot universal observance of peace actions and family, the community, the country or the ernment, religious, volunteer and non- Heredia, from the Post office 200 mts. north, 200 mts west and 50 mts. north. Tel: (506) 260-5649 thought. The season began Jan. 30 and will world. Everyone is invited to take some aligned organizations and people. last through April 4, spanning the anniver- action for a nonviolent future. The World Season for Nonviolence is an $14 Single / $19 Double / $26 Triple saries of the deaths of Mahatma Gandhi Various studies show that violence is the initiative of the United Nations. In Costa and Martin Luther King, Jr., both leading foundation for the biggest problems in the Rica, the season concludes with an awards advocates of nonviolence to achieve social world, according to a statement by Dulce ceremony for “builders of peace,” people or change. Umanzor, coordinator of this year’s season. organizations that practice or promote pos- Building a culture of peace is this year’s “Here in Costa Rica, the usual solution itive values. theme. The season focuses on peace activi- given is more police and stiffer sentences, To participate or find out more, contact ties, which can be organized programs or which are repressive answers to violence,” Umanzor at 258-6133 or temporadano individual actions, and can be public she said. “Yet much of the blame for a vio- [email protected]. events or personal means of achieving lent society is laid to a loss of values, and –Mitzi Stark 200 mts north of the Post Office ¥17 rooms each with bathroom ¥Solar-heated water Discover the ¥Monthly rates Start Your ¥Apartments fully International Family! furnished/unfur- nished International Baptist Church ¥Special deal for welcomes you every Sunday Day retired people ¥Cable TV Guachipelín de Escazú, west of Multiplaza ¥Fan on the north side of the Santa Ana Highway Informed ¥Parking lot Tel. (506) 237-30-36 8:30 am - Worship $15 Single $25 Double $30 Triple 9:45 am - Sunday Morning We offer you kind attention! Bible Study. E-mail: [email protected] 11:00 am - Worship Web site: www.hamerica.net Free bus service in front of For reservations in Hotel América, tha Gran Hotel at 9:00 am. Read The Tico Times Hotel Ceos and Hotel Heredia call: Tel (506) 260-92-92 Fax:(506) 260-92-93 Church Office: 215-2117 Daily News page at DISCOUNT ON Pastor Paul’s Cell: 365-1005 MEALS AND RATES E-mail: [email protected] www.ticotimes.net/daily.htm PRESENTING THIS AD 7231 8221 5% 6170 W4 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 Seven Day Gibson Returns; Crow Visits Uvita Star Forecast he world’s lead- cancer and former relationship with Tour de ing bum-bum France champion Lance Armstrong – spent By Licda. Ana Luisa Monge Naranjo Tshaker passes five days at the hotel with a group of friends The conjunction of the sun and Neptune in up a presidential who arrived before her. Crow, who traveled Aquarius suggests a very eventful time for meeting, a U.S. rock- alone, was greeted at the airport by a driver Aquarians when vitally important decisions er soaks up the sun, with a sign bearing a false name she’d can be made. Libras and Geminis can see the and Mad Max plays assumed to protect her privacy, Krogulec positive side of events, but some of you may with spoons in the said in an e-mail. go through drastic and unpleasant changes, Katherine Stanley latest edition of Star especially those born Feb. 8-11, May 9-12, Aug. 9-12 and Nov. 10-14. Watch: Next up on the star circuit is U.S.-Puerto Rican crooner Ricky Martin, who’s sched- ARIES Mel Gibson, fresh off the December uled to sing at Saprissa Stadium in Tibás, (March 21 to April 20) Organize your release of his epic “Apocalypto,” is becoming north of San José, Feb. 19. Tickets for some life to ensure two sources of income, since one a real Costa Rican regular. He visited in areas, such as the VIP zone, are already sold may not be stable. A steadying influence might November 2004 to scout movie locations out, according to the daily Al Día, and one be needed to keep up with challenges. and again last April, when he stayed at the fan in particular may want a private audi- TAURUS Four Seasons in the northwestern province ence: President Oscar Arias. (April 21 to May 21) You may be feel- of Guanacaste and reportedly visited Arenal Lina Barrantes of the Arias Foundation ing very practical about money. Don’t let emo- Volcano. This time, according to the daily La for Peace and Human Progress told the tions interfere with decisions related to a busi- Nación, he hung out in the Southern Zone’s daily that Arias, who founded the organi- ness partner. Punta Dominical Jan. 18, chowing down on zation with the money from the Nobel fish and drinking a diet soda in La Parcela Peace Prize he received in 1987, has known GEMINI Photo courtesy of Paola Sánchez restaurant. Martin for some time through collabo- (May 22 to June 21) Patience is not one of your strengths, but you need it now. The daily reported that although Gibson Hangin’ in the Southern Zone: ration with the singer’s Ricky Martin Faulty decisions, perhaps too hastily made, can was immediately recognized, people hung Sheryl Crow, right, with Hotel Rancho Foundation, which works to combat the result in financial disaster. back, taking photos from a distance – per- trafficking and exploitation of minors. The haps intimidated by the story of the anti- Pacífico owners Garrison Krause and President apparently suggested the two CANCER Semitic tirade he allegedly delivered when Silvia Jiménez. The singer stayed at the schedule a meeting while Martin is in Costa (June 22 to July 23) Your vivid imag- arrested for drunk driving last July – until hotel on a recent visit to Uvita on the Rica. ination may be enhanced this week. You can two kids approached Gibson for an auto- However, Barrantes said the Ricky Martin be very efficient when working with families southern Pacific coast. and children. Connecting to the past may also graph. When the Australian-born actor and Foundation indicated the singer wouldn’t be be appealing to you. director gave them a warm welcome, even able to make it since he is leaving the coun- teaching them some sort of spoon trick, well last month, staying at the Hotel Rancho try the day after the concert (though concert LEO other guests and even waiters started asking Pacífico in Uvita, according to hotel spokes- producer Evenpro stated that Martin won’t (July 24 to August 23) Your powers of for his John Hancock. Where will the Oscar- woman Hanna Krogulec. The Grammy-win- be leaving until Feb. 22). One thing Martin leadership may be difficult to muster this week. winner pop up next? ning singer – known for her album “Tuesday will have time for, the daily reported: a pre- Employees or co-workers may resent your too- show massage, one of the requests he made high expectations. Make adjustments. Night Music Club” and hits such as “All I Sheryl Crow visited the Southern Zone as Wanna Do,” as well as her battle with breast to organizers. VIRGO (August 24 to September 22) Though your popularity is not at its peak this week, you’ll get along with others thanks to your ability to follow instructions. Watch your ten- dency to carp.

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[email protected]. 7135 THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W5 Leather Worker Produces Fine Goods in Atenas By Gaby Kyriss Bernard Giossi, a Swiss fashion designer, Special to The Tico Times who asked her to make the accessories for his next showing. Until the successful show in rom buffalo to ostrich and snake, there Geneva in 1984, Barrette had been self- is no type of leather with which taught. While working with different kinds FCanadian native Guylaine Barrette has of materials, she discovered the potential of not worked in the past 20 years. leather and wanted to make a living out of it. Based in Atenas, a coffee town northwest of She decided to go back to Canada to learn San José, the certified leather worker and the craft at Centre des Metiers du Cuir de teacher designs and creates fine handmade Montréal, a leatherworking center in the leather goods. Barrette manufactures every- province of Quebec. thing from stylish totes, handy backpacks and Barrette, who later taught at the center for elegant belts to sophisticated briefcases, use- six years, continued to work for the fashion ful accessories, purses, wallets and colorful industry. She set up her own workshop in Photo courtesy of Guylaine Barrette leather bindings. Inspired by the Bauhaus Montreal and took part in exhibitions and and art nouveau styles, her customized prod- competitions. ucts exude her dedication to the highest qual- “To me, working with leather is like build- ity standards and her passion for the craft. ing something,” the craftswoman says. “It “Leather is luxurious, precious and noble. allows me to play with materials and colors.” It is the skin of an animal, a demanding After going back and forth between material that ages with style. To make some- Canada and Costa Rica for 10 years, Barrette thing of good quality, you have to have a lot and her husband, Andrés Studer, a Swiss Gaby Kyriss | Tico Times of experience, and you need to know your painter and designer, decided to settle in craft well,” says the vivacious 47-year-old, place, checking them regularly. Leather Atenas permanently (TT, Feb. 10, 2006). The who markets her products under the pseu- should be stored away from heat, and not couple’s latest joint project is entitled donym Gya Barra. needlessly exposed to sunlight. Mold must “Molusco” (“Mollusk”), a three-dimensional Humans have used leather for thousands be removed with a slightly damp cloth. If sitting object designed by Studer and manu- of years as an important material with unlim- desired, leather cream can be used once or factured by Barrette, who is currently devel- Photo courtesy of Guylaine Barrette ited possibilities. It is a renewable resource, twice a year. oping the prototype. created through the tanning of animal hides, Barrette began her career as a crafts- “‘Mollusk’ first appeared in one of my Working with Leather: Based in pelts or skins. The best-quality leathers are woman at the age of 19. The handmade cloth husband’s paintings,” Barrette says. “It can Atenas, French Canadian Guylaine gained from the uppermost layer of the hide bag she had given her sister for Christmas be used as a chair, stool or sculpture. There or skin, where the hair of the animal was. was such a success that she began to produce are many ways to move it, and you can still Barrette, shown at left using a leather “Calfskin is my favorite because it is flexi- handcrafted items for family and friends. sit on it. We’re using our ‘Mollusks’ every day finishing tool, produces handmade ble and young, providing the pieces with a She started selling her products and experi- to relax, read or watch TV.” leather goods such as the red calfskin perfect look,” Barrette says. menting with all kinds of handicrafts, from For more information about Barrette’s fine For leather care in the tropics, she recom- batik to ceramics. leather goods, or to place an order, contact bag with crocodile button and Bau- mends keeping the pieces in a ventilated On a trip to Europe, the avid traveler met the leather worker at [email protected]. haus leather and wood bag above. Exportable Orchids Ask for your export permit

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THE LITTLE THEATRE GROUP Dreaming of Bamboo Blanche Brown Theatre, Escazú Custom Designs by Brian Erickson Presents Strawberries in January AROMANTIC COMEDY Guest Director David Allan King Feb. 23-March 11 7:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 2:30 p.m., Sun. CALL: 355-1623 ONLINE RESERVATION Exotic Bamboo plants also www.littletheatregroup.org Tel. 710-1958 15009 E-mail: [email protected] 7885 7959 W6 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 Two’s Company: Where to Celebrate Valentine’s Day By Tyler Pearce Tico Times Staff

o just who started Valentine’s Day? And exactly when did it start? A few different Slegends try to explain it. St. Valentine may have been one of several different fig- ures, most of whom were martyrs. The bot- tom line is that no one really seems to be sure exactly who deserves the credit. While the history of this special day may be cloudy, what seems to work for many to woo their lovers is pretty clear: chocolates, flowers and dinner for two. This recipe has been followed by couples of all ages across the globe. Here are some suggestions to keep the recipe fresh. White House hotel, restaurant, casino and spa will be staging an elegant Valentine’s Day affair with a view, at its location in the hills of San Antonio de Escazú, west of San José. Though specifics were not available at press time, The Capitol Grill restaurant will be Maisie Crow | Tico Times Vicky Longland | Tico Times offering a choice of three menus, “Valen- tine’s,”“Passion” and “Love.”For info or reser- Restaurants for Romance: Clockwise from above, Olio restaurant in Barrio vations, call 288-6362. For more about the Escalante; Heredia’s Baalbeck; The Capitol Grill at White House hotel in Escazú; hotel, visit www.whitehousecostarica.com. Down in Bello Horizonte de Escazú, Big and Park Café in Sabana Norte. Mike’s has prepared an impressive menu to dazzle your loved one on Feb. 14. Owner culinaryadventurescostarica.com. cious options to strike your fancy. Choose Michael Forbes says Valentine’s dinner will Also in Escazú, Sebastian restaurant will between three main dishes of Middle Eastern include an appetizer, salad, entrée, dessert be offering its regular international menu, fare, followed by a dessert choice of either and a glass of house wine for about ¢12,000 including dishes such as tenderloin with coconut flan or tres leches. A glass of white or ($23) per person. Lovers can choose from cilantro sauce (¢6,200/$12), pasta in a black red wine is included in the fixed meal, which filet mignon à la béarnaise, salmon fillet with squid sauce (¢4,800/$9), and pasta in white will cost $26 per person. After dinner, stay Photo courtesy of White House shrimp filling, sautéed rainbow trout wine sauce with cayenne pepper and shrimp around to enjoy a mix of Caribbean music, almondine, shish kabob with rice pilaf or (¢5,500/$11), accompanied by a string and salsa and merengue by Grupo Marfil, start- skewered jumbo shrimp with bourbon percussion duo that will entertain diners at ing at 9 p.m. Baalbeck is in Los Angeles de molasses. Call 289-6087 to reserve. For more their tables. To reserve, call 289-8208. San Rafael in Heredia. For reservations, call about Big Mike’s restaurant, cooking classes For romance in the hills of Heredia, Baal- 267-6683. and other culinary adventures, visit www. beck restaurant will be offering some deli- For a truly unique, ultra-romantic experi- ence, Park Café in the western San José neighborhood of Sabana Norte is a choice Blooms and Sweets you won’t forget. With several Michelin restaurants under his belt, chef Richard Neat Flowers and chocolates are, of opened Park Café just a few weeks ago to course, standard tokens of love on complement his partner Louise’s existing Photo courtesy of Park Café Valentine’s Day. Here’s an abbrevi- antique shop. The open-air dining area sur- ated list of options: rounds a courtyard complete with tinkling In eastern San José’s trendy Barrio Esca- Biosfera Flores y Más in the fountain, intimate lighting and a gorgeous lante, Mediterranean restaurant Olio has its western suburb of Escazú (289- selection of antiques providing elegant decor. own special Valentine’s night prepared. For 6529) offers roses by the dozen in The menu for the evening is a set meal of starters, diners can choose between cream of red, white and pink, as well as var- five tapas, including soup of leek with ham, pumpkin soup or salad with smoked ied floral arrangements. A dozen ravioli of mushrooms with asparagus, tataki salmon, followed by an entrée of fish fillet roses wrapped in paper and tied of tuna with aubergine puree, brochette of with seafood salsa, chicken Florentine, steak with ribbon run ¢6,500 ($12.50). shrimp with a Thai mango salad and mille- in Cajun sauce or vegetarian pasta with The shop also offers greeting cards feuille of chicken and bacon with gua- tomato and olives. For dessert, lovers may and other small gifts. camole. A sampling of five exquisite dessert choose between almond cassata and passion- Floristería Embrujos (228- items follows, lined on a long platter for an fruit mousse. To add some romance to the 6365) in Escazú features a large Chelcey Adami | Tico Times intimate, shared dessert experience. The cost air, a jazz saxophonist will play throughout selection of roses as well. You can for this set meal is ¢15,000 ($29) per person. the evening. The set menu is priced at ¢7,500 choose from red, white or pink varieties, as well as other bouquets of flowers. A dozen red roses sells for ¢12,000 To reserve, call 290-6324. ($14). For info, call 838-8266. ($23). Delivery is available at an additional cost. In nearby Sabana Sur, popular Spanish If all you have is a sweet tooth, Mara’s Flor de Oro in the eastern suburb of Curridabat (280-0810) offers a dozen roses wrapped with a ribbon for restaurant Casa Luisa will be featuring two Pastelería, in downtown San José’s court ¢10,000 ($19), as well as a selection of varied arrangements starting at ¢8,000 ($15). If you’d like chocolates or guitarists playing romantic music and trova district, offers a sinful selection of home- a bottle of wine to accompany your flowers, Flor de Oro will pick these up for you and deliver them, for an addi- to serenade lovers while they dine, as well as made cakes and pies for ¢9,000 ($17) each. tional cost. Florist Julieta León recommends you place your order at least one to three days ahead of time to guar- complimentary champagne. The restaurant’s As a Valentine’s Day special, Mara’s will be antee delivery. menu includes Spanish paella and exotic offering specialty cakes with a personal mes- La Gardenia, with locations in San José (223-3232) and the eastern suburb of San Pedro (224-4527), offers items such as rabbit, lamb and tepezcuintle sage of your choice to show your love. For plenty of rose and varied floral arrangements. A vase of a dozen roses runs ¢12,000 ($23) and a rose bunch with (paca). For reservations, call 296-1917. information, call 221-5930. fruit costs ¢15,000 ($29). You can view floral arrangements online at www.lagardeniacr.com. The Aurola Holiday Inn in downtown If you’re looking for something different Floristería Marvin has four locations in the Central Valley: Paseo Colón, downtown San José (256-1056); the San José will be offering a fixed menu to enjoy with your partner, Broadway northeastern suburb of Moravia (240-4150); Curridabat (272-9098); and Heredia (237-5011). A dozen roses costs including appetizers, main dish and dessert. Beauty in Escazú offers a couple’s massage ¢10,000-12,000 ($19-23); delivery is extra. Start with canapé mushrooms with an avo- with aromatherapy for ¢35,000 ($67) per Another floral option is to visit www.flowersdelmundo.com. With Flowers of the World, you can choose from cado dip, follow with a fresh caprese salad, person. Guys can be treated to a little more many floral arrangements, as well as cakes and chocolates, and have them sent anywhere around the globe. This and then choose between fish Florentine or sugar with a chocolate facial lasting one hour is a great option for those in long-distance love. pork loin for your entrée. A single-serving- and women are offered a collagen or vitamin The site www.chocolatesdelmundo.com specializes in gourmet chocolates by Giacomín chocolate factory in size bottle of red or white wine is included in C facial for ¢25,000 ($48) each. Or go deluxe Escazú. An assortment box including milk and dark chocolate, macadamia nut, marzipan, caramel and praline goes the meal, which will cost ¢7,000 ($13) per with the spa’s third option of full-body exfo- for about $24. For something with a little more kick, try the liqueur box of truffles filled with whiskey, rum, person. To turn up the charm, each party liation, massage, manicure and pedicure for Cointreau or cognac, for $21. will be given a complimentary rose. For ¢65,500 ($126) per person. Appointments –Tyler Pearce information or reservations, call 523-1000. can be made at 282-0232. THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W7 New Municipal Theater Sets Stage in Alajuela By Mitzi Stark During last week’s grand opening for an Special to The Tico Times invitation-only audience, the theater’s lights went on for the first performance of hough Alajuela is the second largest “Tertulia de los Espantos” (“Gathering of city in Costa Rica, it has never been a Ghosts”), an original drama that brings Tserious theater town. A few theater together the legends and lore, much of it workshops or troupes and some short-lived scary, of each of the provinces of Costa theater groups have made the circuit spo- Rica. This gathering of the cart without radically, but now, with a permanent the- oxen, the headless priest, El Cadejos (the ater resurrected by the municipality, a per- man turned dog) and other spirits that manent dramatist directing and two theater haunt Tico lore makes up a multifaceted groups waiting in the wings, the city north- work tied together with narration and mar- west of San José is ready for the shows to ionettes. Featured are 29 actors from two begin. drama groups, Teatro Carpe Diem, directed Directing this new era for Alajuela is play- by Marcos Araya, and Grupo Sombrero wright Jorge Arroyo, an alajuelense whose Rojo, led by Rodolfo Oreamuno. plays and books have won national and One of the stars on opening night, Jan. international awards and whose ambitious 30, was President Oscar Arias, who praised work, “Tertulia de los Espantos,” opened the the city of Alajuela for its vision in recup- theater’s premier season. erating not only the building but also the Situated in the center of town, one block Costa Rican “culture and history formed from the Central Park and facing Juan by our ancestors,”adding that this may spur Santamaría Plaza, the theater was built in the recuperation of a dispersed and iso- 1956 to replace an earlier theater and ball- lated society by encouraging people to room built on the site in the early 1900s that come together in town centers to enjoy once housed plays, orchestras and balls their culture. from the glamorous art deco period. But for Regular performances of “Tertulia”begin most of the past 50 years the building has at 7:30 p.m. Friday to Sunday through next been idle and boarded up, used occasional- weekend. Admission is ¢2,000 ($3.80), ly for programs or as dressing rooms for ¢1,500 ($2.90) for students with school ID street activities. and ¢1,000 ($1.90) for older adults. Tickets Now totally refurbished and dressed up as are available at the ticket booth from 4 to 7 part of the civic program Alajuela 2010, the p.m. on performance days. Advance reserva- building has been restructured to meet tions may be made by calling 436-2362. modern building codes and to provide com- Matinee children’s programs and “Golden fortable seating and elegant lobbies for the- Wednesday” performances for senior citi- ater patrons – 21st-century elegance with a zens are scheduled for later in the season. 19th-century touch. A European-style café Future programs will feature local, national will soon enhance theater evenings. and international artists.

Chelcey Adami | Tico Times A Permanent Home for Theater in Alajuela: Dramatic lighting enhances a scene from the opening night of Jorge Arroyo’s “Tertulia de los Espantos,” the inaugural play at Alajuela’s new municipal theater. 8214 W8 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W9 EXPLORING COSTA RICA Arenal Residents Live in Harmony with Active Volcano Arenal Area Resident By Kate Roff Recalls 1968 Eruption Special to The Tico Times

estled at the base of one of the By Kate Roff world’s most active volcanoes, in the Special to The Tico Times Nnorth-central region of Costa Rica, lies the aptly named town of La Fortuna – n 1968, Jorge Eduardo Solórzano lived “fortune” or “luck,” in English. Arenal Vol- six kilometers from north-central Costa cano’s violent July 1968 eruption destroyed IRica’s Arenal Volcano, near the town of three small villages, killed 87 people and La Fortuna, then a basic village that supplied wiped out 232 square kilometers of crops necessities to area farmers and cattle ranch- and livestock, but La Fortuna was spared. ers. The 10-year-old boy attended fifth grade Since then, its 8,000 residents have made at the school in La Fortuna. their peace with the consistently active vol- “I had to walk a few kilometers every day cano to form a delicate harmony. to get to school, on a dirt road that formed Each year, Arenal Volcano National Park part of the forest, which scared me because receives approximately 60,000 visitors, and wild animals and snakes often crossed infrastructure in the area is increasing to there,” recalled Solórzano, now 49. support the constant flow of tourists. Back then, the looming figure of Arenal Most La Fortuna residents have become Volcano was just another mountain, called accustomed to the frequent rumblings of Cerro Arenal, dormant for more than 400 Arenal Volcano, and have begun to recog- years and thought to be extinct. nize their dependence on the booming According to area residents, some people tourism industry drawn by its regular, awe- even slept in the crater; the fertile land sur- inspiring activity. The volcano has become rounding it was an ideal place to grow crops, the star attraction in a long list of tourist and the crater offered farmers protection activities La Fortuna has to offer, including from the elements at night. Photo courtesy of Jorge Solórzano hot springs, horseback riding and adventure Two days before the fateful eruption, resi- tours ranging from zipline canopy tours to dents say, strange warning signs became evi- Survivor: La Fortuna resident Jorge white-water rafting. dent. The temperature of the water in the Solórzano remembers Arenal Volcano’s river rose, and minor earthquakes began to 1968 eruption, which killed 87 people. Not Scared Constant Rumbler: North-central Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano, left, the most active volcano in Central America, is a constantly rumbling presence looming shake the town. over the town of La Fortuna, right. Photos by Kate Roff | Tico Times Solórzano recalls that he and his family Since the tragic deaths of an 8-year-old Arenal Volcano were terrified of the earthquakes on that According to Arenal park guides, 87 peo- U.S. tourist and a Costa Rican tour guide Sunday evening. ple were killed that day in settlements closer after an August 2000 eruption (TT, Aug. 25, worry,” she said. opment of hot springs. Using rainwater and same name, Arenal Volcano erupts approx- Despite confidence that a serious eruption “The rumbling noises sounded like air- to the volcano, but La Fortuna was spared.

2000), and the resulting risk-area zoning La Fortuna Hotel owner José Soro said the water heated by the magma of the volcano, imately every 10 minutes, according to remains unlikely, opinions vary on whether Lake Arenal planes taking off,”he said.“But we thought it Solórzano and his family retreated to the established around Arenal Volcano by the town almost entirely revolves around tourism. hot springs resorts such as Tabacón and park guide Oscar Artanla. With a perma- or not the town is prepared. had to do with the severe storms that were Central Valley coffee town of Palmares, National Emergencies Commission (TT, Feb. “Ninety percent of La Fortuna depends Baldi have become trademarks of the nent seismic station constantly measuring Area resident Warner Baltodano said the La common around that time of year.” northwest of San José, for a month before Fortuna 23, 2001), tour operators have settled into a on the tourism industry; the rest is agricul- Arenal experience. tremors and eruptions, residents such as city recently executed an evacuation drill Tilarán Villagers living near the volcano did not returning to their property. respectful coexistence with the volcano. ture and dairy farms,”he said. “Most of that Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort Artanla are confident that another erup- and that he was comfortable with the way realize the danger of these signs until it was The eruption marked a huge change in Local tour manager Vanessa Willing of 90% are local business owners, which opened in 1993 and is considered the most tion would not be as devastating as the one the test evacuations were carried out. far too late. the lives of all area residents, Solórzano said. Wave Expeditions said she has lived in La means the money we produce stays in the luxurious, and expensive. Since then it has in 1968. “They got everyone out of the town in a On the morning of Monday, July 29, 1968, “Everyone immediately wanted to know Fortuna for two years and is not overly con- region. This is very important for us and flourished as a resort, with the tourism “The volcano is constantly monitored; test run about four months ago. That Arenal Solórzano arrived at school, only to be sent what had happened and why; we were all the country.” industry pushing it to renovate and expand that information gets beamed back to sta- worked well,” he said. Volcano cerned about living in the shadow of Arenal. San home by an informed teacher who uncertain,” he recalled. “But as time passed, “I’m not really scared,” she said. “No one Soro doesn’t feel concerned about living over the past few years to include 114 guest tions in Florida (in the United States), where However, other residents feel an eruption José announced that Cerro Arenal had become a little by little people began to return to the has completely forgotten about the volcano. next to the volcano; on the contrary, he is rooms. The resort was recently awarded five- they have experts looking at the material and could take residents off guard. Willing said N volcano. Safe on their distant property, volcano.” They can’t; it’s a part of all our lives, and excited about the energy it brings to the star status from the Costa Rican Tourism statistics,”Artanla said. she was not so confident in evacuation Solórzano and his family watched the vol- Pacific Now Solórzano agrees that Arenal most of our work depends on the tourism town. Institute (ICT). “I think La Fortuna is safe because it’s on plans. She was not informed of the practice Ocean W E cano explode. Volcano has become a huge tourist attrac- received from it.” “I feel completely comfortable and have the east side of the volcano,” he added. “I do evacuation and was not aware of many “Nothing could be seen between the colos- tion that the people of La Fortuna have She said as long as it stays slowly active, no great expectations for La Fortuna,” he said. Active Volcano think we have to respect the volcano and emergency plans. S sal roars that sent ash columns tumbling learned to use to their advantage. one is concerned. Besides adventure tourism, one very suc- take responsibility to make sure all the visi- “I think if it’s going to blow, then we down; it seemed like a giant, black cauliflower “I am a commercial retailer and have “When it goes quiet, that’s when I’ll cessful area of business has been the devel- Protected within a national park of the tors are safe on the tours in Arenal.” wouldn’t have much warning,” she said. and the tremors did not stop,” he recalled. devoted my life to tourism,” he said. Roy Arguedas Arias | Tico Times

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NEWS IN BRIEF DIVER DOWN Photo by Eric Sabo U.S. Denies Supplying Fighter Jets to Honduras

MANAGUA – The U.S. Embassy released a statement Feb. 4 denying allegations by President Daniel Ortega that the United States had “approved the renewal of Honduras’ fleet of fighter jets.” Ortega, in comments to the local press Feb. 3, said that it would be “absurd” for Nicaragua to destroy its remaining SAM-7 shoulder-launch missiles if the United States was going to rearm Honduras’ Air Force. The United States said in its statement that it is not supplying Honduras with any fighter jets, but acknowledged that the Honduran government is in the process of buying eight “Storm Rally” jets from the United States for the purpose of detecting drug-trafficking and conducting search- and-rescue missions. “More than a month ago, the government of Honduras decided to use funds donated by the U.S. government to buy eight planes known as ‘Storm Rally,’ which are small planes for one or two persons,” the embassy said in its release. The embassy stressed that the Strom Rally jets, “don’t have any offensive capabili- No Crowds: The remote Corn Islands, off the Atlantic Coast, are a diver’s paradise, offering great underwater ties and have not yet been given to the sights without all the people that crowd other Caribbean dive spots. Story Page 5 Honduran government.” Historic tensions between Honduras and Nicaragua were at an all-time high during the first Ortega government in the 1980s, when the U.S.-backed Contras trained and launched attacks against Nicaragua out of Law Student Gets ‘101’ in Libel bases along Honduras’ southern border. Suspicions were again raised last year, By Eric Sabo Esteban McEwan, but defendant Caroline The story was published last August in when Honduras announced that it was Nica Times Staff Nagy, an aspiring law student who has Envio, an academic journal associated with building a military base near its disputed worked in Nicaragua for the past year, could the University of Central America (UCA). Caribbean border with Nicaragua. The MANAGUA – A still face additional legal challenges over an Nagy claimed in her article that Padilla’s International Court of Justice at The Hague recent college grad- article she wrote last year for an academic land dispute had been “complicated” by is set to rule next month on the Honduran- uate from the U.S. journal in Managua. alleged corruption involving McEwan and Nicaraguan border dispute, filed by state of Ohio receiv- The libel suit stems from Nagy’s portray- local authorities – an accusation denied by Nicaragua in 1999. ed a crash course al of a long-standing and sometimes-vio- McEwan and his lawyer, Orietta Benavides. The United States concluded its statement last week in Nica- lent land dispute on the Santa Emilia During the Feb. 1 hearing in Managua, by again urging Nicaragua to continue with ragua’s strict libel Estates, a sprawling coffee farm owned by Benavides argued that Nagy had slandered a the process of destroying its SAM-7 missiles, laws, narrowly avoi- McEwan on the outskirts of Matagalpa. respected Nicaraguan family, whose hold- which the Sandinista government bought in ding a ruling that would have left the 23- Calling it a “David-versus-Goliath bat- ings include various coffee brands marketed the 1980s to protect itself from possible air year-old writer to defend her reporting tle,” Nagy detailed the accusations made by in the United States. attacks out of Honduras. against one of the country’s most powerful a former Sandinista soldier, Vicente Padilla, “This article was of malicious intent sim- At the behest of former U.S. Secretary of coffee families. who alleges that he was roughed up and ply to get publicity,” Benavides said. State Colin Powell in 2005, Nicaragua has A municipal judge threw out the charges kicked off his small plot of land by Benavides requested that the judge hold destroyed a majority of its 2,100 stockpiled of slander brought by coffee producer José McEwan’s armed guards. Page 2 missiles, leaving 400 for “national security purposes.” Former Defense Minister Avil Ramírez told The Nica Times last year that the SAM- 7s could be used only against helicopters or New Tourism Director Draws Future other slower-flying aircraft, but not fighter jets. By Tim Rogers the past 16 years as the head of a develop- become a reality,” Salinas told The Nica The United States is worried the missiles will fall into terrorist hands and be used to Nica Times Staff ment company that plans, designs and builds Times during an interview this week in his residential and commercial projects in Managua office. “This is the training I down a commercial airliner. MANAGUA – Nicaragua. His company, Grupo Sooner, has bring to INTUR. This is my machete, as we –Nica Times Mario Salinas, the built or is constructing seven urban develop- say in Nicaragua.” new director of the ment projects in Nicaragua to the tune of Salinas, who helped to head construction Nicaraguan Tourism $150 million. of the Sandinista government’s ambitious Institute (INTUR), Now, the 63-year-old Salinas, who is a life- $30 million Montelimar tourism complex in is in the business long Sandinista and personal friend of the late 1980s, took over the top seat at CENTRAL AMERICAÕS LEADING ENGLISH-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER of visualizing things President Daniel Ortega, is putting his archi- INTUR last month, replacing the young and that don’t exist, and tectural and development background to use energetic Maria Nelly Rivas, who has gone then building them. as the head of INTUR. into the private sector. Inside That’s his training as an architect educat- “As an architect, I have been trained to Salinas says the change of government ed in Italy, and that’s what he has done for imagine things in my head that later Page 3 2 | NEWS | THE NICA TIMES – February 9, 2007 Libel Law Protects ‘Honor’ of Offended Page 1 But the editor said she became convinced about running the story after Nagy spent two Nagy on a 5,000-córdoba ($278) bond and months in Matagalpa, where the young restrict her from traveling outside of reporter poured over court documents and Nicaragua until another trial date was set. interviewed eye witnesses who were quoted The judge, however, dismissed the case and as backing Padilla’s claims. said that Nagy is free to return home at any Day in Court: “This was the most thoroughly researched point. Benavides said her client could still article we have ever published,” Butler said. pursue the case if he chooses. Caroline Nagy According to Nagy, the Santa Emilia “This was just a preliminary hearing,” she Estates had been confiscated by the revolu- told The Nica Times. “We can return and (left), who plans tionary Sandinista government in the 1980s present the charges again.” and then given to a series of cooperatives to attend law after President Violeta Chamorro was elected Living with Libel in 1990. A McEwan family member was school in the allegedly compensated $1 million for the The libel accusation has left an unusual United States, confiscated land in 1994, according to the legal cloud over Nagy, who had to list the article. pending charges on her recent law-school Yet José Esteban McEwan was “unwilling confers with her to see the family estate remain in the hands applications to Georgetown and Harvard. attorney outside of mere peasants,” Nagy wrote, and so made Nagy said that the whole Padilla story has plans to “reacquire it.” become a serious “detour” from her work at a Managua Although Nagy admits that her article the Casa Ben Linder in Managua, where she clearly sides with the poor farmer fighting helps bring together other activists to net- courtroom. McEwan, she said that she was careful to shy work on various social causes. away from anything she couldn’t substanti- “Honestly, I’d be happy if I never talked ate – Padilla’s land title claims, she wrote, are about this case again,” she said. “unclear and complicated,” much “like many Nicaragua’s libel laws can bring stiff things in Nicaragua.” penalties to anyone who damages a person’s But Benavides, who complained in court reputation, especially if it involves a domes- that Nagy never interviewed her client, tic or private matter. The truth of the allega- McEwan, says that the article could be tions, lawyers explain, is less important than Eric Sabo | Nica Times enough to cause serious harm to the family’s the perceived damage that is inflicted upon firm Garcia & Bodan. that run in the now two-and a-half-decade coffee business. the person suing for libel. Judy Butler, one of the editors of Envio, old publication, which is geared toward aca- “If a stranger reads this article, how will “In Nicaragua, it’s all about protecting said that this is the first time her magazine demic articles with a leftist bent. they be able to interpret this information?” someone’s reputation or honor,” said has been sued for libel. She said that Nagy’s “We don’t do much street journalism,” she asks. “We can’t calculate the extent of the Almicar Navarro, a lawyer with the Managua story was different from the usual articles Butler said. damage.” Private Investors Give Ortega Another Vote of Confidence MANAGUA – The head of the country’s main business chamber, COSEP, called on local businessmen to invest in Nicaragua and to trust the new government headed by President Daniel Ortega. “I tell all businessmen, ‘let’s go, these years Sealed with a that are coming are very good ones’,” said COSEP president Erwin Krüger after emerg- Handshake: ing from a meeting Jan. 31 with Nicaragua Mexican Vice-President Jaime Morales Carazo.“We’re starting off on a good footing in the govern- business mogul ment.” Krüger said that “this government is Carlos Slim opening doors and we want to keep them open.“We’re the second-poorest country in (left) met with Latin America and to be able to get out of that situation, we have to all agree to push President Daniel the cart in the same direction together.” COSEP groups Nicaragua’s 15 leading Ortega last week industry chambers and trade associations. Krüger’s enthusiastic endorsement for the to promise more Ortega government was followed by similar investment in reinforcement the following day by Mexican telecom mogul Carlos Slim, considered the Nicaragua. wealthiest businessman in Latin America. Slim met with Ortega and Nicaragua’s lead- ing business leaders Feb. 1 to announce an increase in investment here in areas of energy, telecommunications and infrastructure. “We have confidence in the country, in its Mario López | EFE government, in its business class and in its Along those same lines, Canadian invest- increasing his telecom investment in Nica- “When we started in Nicaragua, just a very economic possibilities,” Slim said. ment group Polaris Geothermal announced ragua, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. short time ago, only three of every 100 Slim, a Mexican of Lebanese origin, said Feb. 1 that it is going to invest another $68 As president of the Mexican business Nicaraguans had a cell phone. Now 35 out of he is interested in geothermal and hydroelec- million in Nicaragua to increase energy pro- group Grupo Carso, Slim already owns 100 have cell phones and we hope to get that tric energy projects here because “they are duction to 31 megawatts at its geothermal Teléfonos de México (Telmex), which indi- to one of every two Nicaraguans with cell the most efficient and abundant sources of plant in León. rectly controls the Nicaraguan telephone phones very soon,” Slim said. energy Nicaragua has.” Slim, meanwhile, said he is also interested in companies Enitel and Aló PCS. –EFE

Publisher Dery Dyer Published Every Friday by THE TICO TIMES S.A. Advertising Vanessa Marenco General Manager Abby Daniell Apdo. 4632-1000, San José, Costa Rica [email protected] Tel. (505) 838-7848 Editor Tim Rogers Phone (506) 258-1558 | Fax (506) 233-6378 Circulation Nicaragua Ivette Sánchez Contact Us Reporter Eric Sabo Nicaragua address Apdo. 73 Granada [email protected] Tel. (505) 250-1100 Circulation Ivette Sánchez Phone (505) 841-1643 Costa Rica Subscriptions [email protected] Vol. III Nº 107 www.nicatimes.net Production Mayra Sojo E-mail [email protected] Copyright Convention: unauthorized reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. THE NICA TIMES – February 9, 2007 | NEWS | 3 Tourism Director Confident about Future Page 1 markets, and give special new attention to promoting the country as a tourism destina- does not mean a change in the policy of pri- tion within Central America, particularly in oritizing tourism as a principal engine to Costa Rica and El Salvador. power the country’s economy. In fact, he said, the new government will be working Ortega Appeal even harder to strengthen tourism. “Undoubtedly, the government of Pre- Salinas says he thinks Ortega’s return to sident Ortega is clear about the important power will also have a positive secondary role that the tourism sector plays in generat- effect on tourism promotion. ing money and jobs,” Salinas said. “Ortega is a figure who attracts a lot of attention; he doesn’t go unnoticed anywhere, Confusion over Law 290 so this assures that Nicaragua will be making the international news,” Salinas said. “And if The new tourism director claims that the the news out of Nicaragua continues to be recent government restructuring under Law reported in the same positive way it has been 290, which will pass INTUR from the auspices recently, I think it will be positive for us.” of the Ministry of Finance to that of the Salinas said that the new Sandinista gov- Presidency, is a sign that tourism will continue ernment has already shown that it is willing to be prioritized by the new administration. to cooperate with the private sector to build “Now we will answer directly to the a better country. And that cooperation Presidency. This gives a clear signal that the between the government and the private sec- country is giving great value to tourism,” the tor is making international headlines – new INTUR director said. something that wouldn’t necessarily be news Salinas downplayed concerns that the if one of the other presidential candidates restructuring under Law 290 will debilitate had won the election last year. “People are paying attention to what is INTUR’s ability to spend money on public- Tim Rogers | Nica Times ity to promote Nicaragua – an element that happening in Nicaragua,” Salinas said. “The is considered crucial to the institute’s abili- Visionary: INTUR director Mario Salinas says the first step toward building the left wing has returned to power and people are interested in how the left is managing ty to sell the country as a tourism destina- future is to imagine what can be built. tion abroad. development with the private sector. This is But not everyone at INTUR shares Salinas’ getting people’s attention and getting people confidence. tourism destination. Nicaragua also spends a lot less than its to think about Nicaragua.” The debate and confusion over Law 290, “INTUR manages its budget and it will neighbors on international promotion. As for Ortega’s relationship with Latin passed Jan. 24 (NT, Feb. 2), involves a con- continue to manage it,”Salinas said. “No one INTUR’s budget last year was around $1.2 mil- America’s more radical, anti-U.S. left-wing troversial reform that apparently will reallo- is talking about freezing funds, they are only lion, compared to the Honduran Tourism element, Salinas said each President speaks cate some $5.5 million in budget funding talking about coordinating the government’s Institute’s $3 million, Panama’s $5 million, on behalf of his own country. And in the case earmarked for government promotion and message. INTUR will always have its $1.5 Costa Rica’s $6 million, El Salvador’s $7 million of Nicaragua, he added, “I haven’t heard any publicity for the various ministries and gov- million for promotion.” and Guatemala’s $9.2 million, according to the message from President Ortega that could ernment institutes to the newly created pres- Others in INTUR say they think the press Central American Integration System (SICA). scare away any investor or tourist.” idential Council of Communication and office’s budget for national advertising will Salinas said INTUR has to work to bring Citizenship, headed by First Lady Rosario now be controlled by the Council of more tourists to Nicaragua in the coming Murillo. Communication and Citizenship, but that years, and to convince them to stay longer Presenting Opposition lawmakers claim the measure the larger budget for foreign promotion, once they are here. The INTUR director International is illegal because it will be usurping funds which is largely generated by separate taxes noted that the average tourist’s stay in Gourmet Flavors from the ministries and giving them to a and income from outside of the national Nicaragua is less than four days, while the From Custom Roasted non-elected office held by Ortega’s wife. And budget, will not be affected. But overall, most average stay in Costa Rica is 12 days. Nicaraguan Beans the national media, much of which survives people are still confused about the implica- Salinas hesitated to speak in terms of spe- on government advertising, argues that the tions of Law 290. cific projects or goals that INTUR has Café El Coche reform will be a way for the Sandinista planned for the next five years, claiming that Offering Nicaragua’s finest administration to “reward” the loyal media Challenges Ahead the tourism institute is still finalizing a set of gourmet hot or cold COFFEE with large advertising contracts, and “pun- concrete goals and numbers that will be beverages. Also smoothies, sodas, hot and cold teas, ish” opposition media by starving them of Despite sustained 10%-plus growth over announced in the near future. delicious baked goods government advertising revenue. the past several years, the tourism industry But in general terms, he said, INTUR will and desserts. Murillo claims the measure is about creat- in Nicaragua, with 773,000 visitors last year work in these coming years to diversify its NOW at three convenient ing a coordinated strategy for government and $239 million in income, still lags behind product, improve the quality of attention to locations! austerity to prioritize limited funding for that of other Central American countries. tourists and work to increase the amount of needed social programs. Only Panama and Belize have fewer annu- money tourism generates for the economy ¥ PriceSmart, Managua ¥ South Highway km 8.5, That’s the line repeated by Salinas, who al visitors, but Panama’s duty-free shopping and social spending. Managua doesn’t think the reform will effect generates close to $1 billion annually in He said INTUR will continue to work to ¥ Del Papa “Q”, 75 mts. INTUR’s ability to promote Nicaragua as a tourism-related revenue. promote Nicaragua in U.S. and European al sur, Granada Tel: (505) 552-1220 Enjoy indoor (air conditioned) Cardinal Obando that could com- John Paul II. or patio seating. promise (rela- Others in the church have said the deci- We also offer a fine selection Offered Gov’t Post tions) with the sion is a personal one for Obando. Managua of See’s and other imported people.” candies, brewing equipment Archbishop Leopoldo Brenes said that if for the home, coffee mugs and MANAGUA – In a move that could Obando served Obando decides to take the post, he will be gift items. either further unite the Catholic Church as a coordinator doing so as a private citizen, and not in any Experience the with the Sandinista government, or divide of the peace talks representation of the Catholic Church. the Catholic faithful, Cardinal and former in the 1980s, but Café El Coche Obando, an outspoken critic of the difference… Archbishop of Managua, Miguel Obando, it was a non-gov- Sandinista government in the 1980s, has is considering taking a government post as one cup at a time. ernmental post at had a very visible reconciliation with Ortega the coordinator of the newly created the time. Council of Peace and Reconciliation. in recent years, often appearing alongside www.CafeElCoche.com Sándigo said him at public events. While Obando deliberates on whether to that under 1983 take the post offered by President Daniel The Cardinal said a mass for the fallen Ortega, some other leaders in the church canon law, mem- Sandinistas during the 25th anniversary of Share the best part of are urging him not to. bers of the church the revolution on July 19, 2004. The fol- your day with friends! “It would be a catastrophe for the faith of hierarchy are pro- Cardinal Obando lowing year he married Ortega and his many Nicaraguans,” Monseñor Sócrates hibited from par- wife, Rosario Murillo, before the Catholic Buy TWO delicious ticipating in government posts. He also Café El Coche beverages René Sándigo, secretary general of the Church. and get ONE FREE*! Nicaraguan Episcopal Conference, told the reminded the Cardinal of what happened to Many attribute Ortega’s presidential vic- *of equal or lesser value, upon daily La Prensa this week. “We urge our Ernesto Cardenal, who served as the tory, in large part, to Obando’s apparent presentation of this coupon. government to not involve such honorable Sandinistas’ Minister of Culture in the support for his candidacy last year. Good until May 31, 2007. people as the Cardinal in internal conflicts 1980s and was publicly rebuked by Pope –Nica Times 7675 4 | CENTRAL AMERICA & CARIBBEAN NEWS | THE NICA TIMES – February 9, 2007

Central America Caribbean Update U.S., El Salvador Launch Anti-Gang Effort

SAN SALVADOR – U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales this week announced an intensified joint effort between the United States and El Salvador to combat brutal Teaming Up: street gangs that have roots in both countries and strong international criminal connec- U.S. Attorney tions. Gonzales, on his first stop of a swing General Alberto through three Latin American nations, said the offensive “targets the transnational gangs Gonzales (right) responsible for the most barbaric violence.” Two of the most powerful and far-reach- and Salvadoran ing street gangs operating in major U.S. President Tony cities, Mexico and Central America are the Mara Salvatrucha (MS) and the Mara 18. Saca announce Both were formed around nuclei of Salvadoran-born young immigrants in Los new joint efforts Angeles, California, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and expanded rapidly both geo- to crack down graphically and in terms of criminal activity. Hundreds of members were arrested and on gangs. prosecuted in the United States for murder, assault, extortion and trafficking in drugs, humans and weapons. Roberto Escobar | EFE They later were deported to El Salvador, which despite being their birthplace was a growing transnational phenomenon. U.S.-funded anti-gang unit to be composed whom have criminal records. The remainder land little known to most of them, having Gonzales, after meeting Monday with of FBI agents and officers from El Salvador's were undocumented immigrants. left as infants or toddlers with their emigrant Salvadoran President Tony Saca, said the National Police. “International cooperation and coordina- parents. new bilateral offensive will focus on more Official Salvadoran data puts the number tion is critical to combating these gangs that Once “back home,” they continued their efficient detention of gang suspects in both of gang members in this small Central know no borders,” said Gonzales, who is criminal activity, forming extremely violent nations, better exchange of information and American nation at about 10,000. Mexican-American. organizations including many Salvadoran increased U.S. training programs for Salva- Nearly one-third of those people are cur- Saca, for his part, said he requested youths who had never emigrated. doran police officers. rently in jail, swept up in anti-gang offen- increased U.S. financial and technological The influence of the maras, as the gangs Also among the initiatives is creation of sives known as “Hard Hand” and “Super aid to augment the National Police’s inves- are known in Central America, spread a fingerprint archive intended to help Hard Hand” that in recent years have sought tigative capacities and to re-enforce security throughout the isthmus and into Mexico, authorities better track gang leaders and to get offenders off the streets. at the prisons with large gangster popula- with many members sneaking into the members. So far this year, U.S. authorities have tions. United States to extend the power of the Gonzales announced formation of an elite deported 1,700 Salvadoran citizens, 341 of –EFE ‘Angel of the Dump’s’ Legacy Lives on in Guatemala By Katherine Stanley Denning, who first went to Guatemala in work with the kids, also worked to get high- is survived by her parents and three broth- Tico Times Staff 1999 to study Spanish for three months, vis- school scholarships for students who suc- ers. ited the massive dump one week before she cessfully completed primary school. She also Méndez, 34, who traveled to Maine for the Hanley Denning was only 36 when a car was scheduled to return home. At the dump, began vocational training centers in baking, service, said that she, like the rest of the Safe crash outside Guatemala City ended her where approximately 4,000 people live in carpentry, tourism and other fields. Parti- Passage staff, is determined to carry on extraordinary life last month. shanty homes on its outskirts and work over cipants in the vocational courses receive Denning’s work. She’s a believer in the Safe According to those she left behind at her new garbage each day, Denning talked to practical training, then an apprenticeship, Passage mission, though she admits it wasn’t innovative brainchild, Camino Seguro (Safe kids who wanted to go to school but couldn’t with the goal of starting a small business. always that way. Passage), a program that’s helping hundreds afford the $20 fees. Determined to change At Posada Lazos Fuertes (www.posadala “I was working for (Denning) as a secre- of children who live at Guatemala City’s this, Denning immediately sold her car and zosfuertes.com), where 100% of the profits tary in Antigua – I had never been to the largest garbage dump, the work she began computer and used the funds to help get 40 go to Safe Passage, a team of 21 young peo- dump,” she said. Méndez said she made her will far outlast her too-brief life. students enrolled in school. ple from the program is learning about hotel first trip to the dump with Denning in 2000 “Before, the kids would say, ‘I want to be a “She had so much faith,” Méndez said. management – and also getting a chance to and was shocked by the children working, cardboard collector (when I grow up). I Denning’s commitment was much deeper experience a touristy section of Guatemala the baby she saw in a cardboard box, the want to work on the truck with my dad. I than providing some money. that is foreign to those who live in the dump. story of another baby who’d died the week want to be a policeman,’ because that’s all Because the students often worked until Through it all, Denning’s work ethic before because a garbage truck threw trash they saw,”Lety Méndez, one of the program’s the wee hours of the morning sorting trash, inspired – and sometimes worried – her on top of her. leaders, told The Nica Times in a phone con- they weren’t used to getting up at 6 a.m. to coworkers. Méndez said, “My first impression with versation this week. “Now, they say: ‘I want go to school. So Denning went to each home “She didn’t sleep,” Mendez said. “We’d get Hanley was to tell her, this can’t be. People to be a doctor.’” to make sure they made it to the classroom really concerned, asking, when did she last aren’t going to change.” Coming from children who, a short time on time, sometimes with a backpack full of eat?” But, she added, “not even a year went by ago, were forced to drop out of school to bread and jam. She also had to convince On Jan. 18, a bus struck the car in which before I changed my way of thinking. help their families sort garbage at the dump, public school teachers that the children were Denning was traveling from Guatemala City Normally, people in Guatemala, we try two worth the effort. to Antigua, killing her and her driver and or three times, but she tried 1,000 times. She aspiring to become a doctor is no small “In many schools, she found an attitude injuring two program volunteers in the showed it really could be done. And now, dream. But Denning, a teacher from the U.S. of,‘We can’t do anything with these kids,’but backseat, according to a Portland Press more than ever, I believe it.” state of Maine whose efforts earned her the she was so insistent,”Méndez said. “She con- Herald article on Denning’s funeral in her For more information about how to help nickname “The Angel of the Dump,” helped vinced the teachers to accept them.” hometown of Yarmouth, Maine. Parents, Safe Passage by participating in volunteer inspire hope in many kids and families in Having students in school meant a loss of children and coworkers mourned her pass- projects; donating to the Hanley Denning just eight years of working in Guatemala. income for their impoverished families, so ing in Guatemala City on Jan. 20, followed Memorial Fund; sponsoring a child or class- This year, Safe Passage is serving 580 stu- Safe Passage also began providing a monthly by a service Jan. 23 at Yarmouth High room; staying at Posada Lazos Fuertes; and dents, with approximately 500 more on the basket of basic food items as a reward for School, where both Guatemalan and U.S. other means of supporting the program, waiting list. The program offers before- and students who attended school and other pro- flags were draped over Denning’s coffin. She visit www.safepassage.org. after-school support, vocational training, grams, including homework sessions, and even a hotel service school. The organi- English classes, art courses and other activi- zation relies on volunteers, earnings from its ties. Posada Lazos Fuertes hotel in Antigua, and Denning, who through the years accumu- Read Us Online: donors, including people or groups who lated staff support, a team of social workers, www.nicatimes.net “adopt” a child or classroom. and volunteers from overseas who came to THE NICA TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND| 5

EXPLORING NICARAGUA Divers Find Natural Treasures off Corn Islands By Eric Sabo Nica Times Staff

BIG CORN ISLAND – Hugging Nicara- gua’s largely untouched Atlantic Coast, the Corn Islands are more removed from the mainland than the quick plane ride from Managua would suggest. Separated from the rest of the country by history and geography, the two islands lack the same Spanish influences that dominate other popular tourist spots. The result is a distinctly Caribbean feel just 50 miles off the Nicaraguan coast. What you hear on the islands is mostly Creole English and reggae music. The waters are turquoise blue and the beaches are tranquil. It’s a hard-to-beat combination that feels all the more remarkable once you realize you’re still in Nicaragua. Just a few kilometers off the Corn Islands is an even greater treasure for underwater enthusiasts: a coral reef that stretches down from Belize and offers some of the best div- ing in Central America. The islands remain relatively undiscov- ered by tourists, and the surrounding waters Photo courtesy of Nautilus are teaming with colorful marine life. The two islands – Big Corn Island and Exploring the Reef: Divers check out the sights off the shore of Big Corn Island, Little Corn Island – offer an impressive array including a colorful trigger fish (at right). of diving options, each equipped with its own professional dive shop. Two popular Despite the wealthier clientele, Herzog has While the tourists who dive here go away dive companies are Nautilus on Big Corn, kept her prices the same. A two-tank dive pleased, few seem as happy as the Nautilus and, across the 15-kilometer stretch of blue with instructor and equipment still costs owners. Chema and Regine are both avid ocean separating the two islands, Dive Little only $75. musicians who, after a day of diving, open Corn. As with anywhere, the two shops A range of spots can be enjoyed by divers their restaurant on weekends to local per- require special dive certification before they of all levels. But the must-see spot for more formers. They sometimes join in on the will take you down. experienced divers is “Blowing Rock,” a music act themselves. They both offer professional lessons that jagged formation that sits a few kilometers “It’s a great way of life out here,” says can get you underwater and exploring rela- off Big Corn. The large, underwater cliff Chema. tively quickly. They also offer snorkeling climbs 150 feet from the ocean floor, making For more information, contact Nautilus tours, which for a trip that can run as short it an attractive spot for all types of sea life. at 575-5077, www.divebigcorn.com. You as two hours, puts you in close range to Off Little Corn, there are a series of small, can contact Dive Little Corn by e-mail at: spotted sea rays, nurse sharks and giant underwater caves that have become dive [email protected]. turtles. favorites there. Photo courtesy of Nautilus Regine Herzog, who runs the Nautilus dive store with her husband, Chema, explains that the relatively small number of visitors has kept the natural habit of the dive Look for spots intact, whereas, divers complain, pop- ular spots off the Virgin Islands and other The Nica Times Caribbean destinations have become over- special edition run with tourists. Hurricanes have chipped away at some of the reef near the Corn on Nicaragua’s Islands, but there are a number of sub- merged shipwrecks that add to the marine Caribbean coast habitat. in next Those who dive or snorkel here can expect to see anything from small, bright trigger week’s paper. fish to menacing-looking barracudas. A recent snorkeling excursion by two tourists reported spotting a ray and a variety of col- And don’t miss the orful tropical fish. The main attraction of upcoming special editions their snorkeling was seeing an olive ridley sea turtle, which swooped by like an under- throughout the year water cargo plane. on other topics of interest The main thing keeping the bigger crowds such as Real Estate, away, Herzog says, is the price of the plane ticket from Managua to Big Corn Island, Trade and other which has nearly doubled in recent years. tourist destinations. But the island’s growing reputation and sprinkling of fancier, new hotels is starting to draw higher-end tourists with more money in their pockets. “It’s a different group now,” Herzog says, adding that no one goes away unhappy. 7855 CARIBE NICA07 6 | WEEKEND | THE NICA TIMES – February 9, 2007 COMMUNITY CONNECTION Those interested in contributing reports or photos to Community Connection are welcome to e-mail Eric Sabo at [email protected].

Granada Gossip by young local artist Clara Grun at the Casa de Los Mejía Godoy. Casa Limón, the eclectically designed and Another important nightlife event is the furnished home of Lemon Groves and Troy inauguration of The Reef, the anticipated Díaz in barrio La Otra Banda, was magical- surfer bar in Zona Viva, with music spun by ly transformed into the Infusion Confusion DJ Revuelta Sonora. Lounge and Meeting Place, with a grand Wrapping up the week of partying, the opening the end of January. Thirty-two best Saturday night options are Hipa Hipa, rum infusions and happy-hour kabobs were with their JIPA Hour from 8-12 p.m., with offered to the grand-opening celebrants, 10 córdoba ($0.55) vodkas and 5 córdoba along with down-tempo lounge music. rum and national beer. Cover for Hora Some of those present were Ben Wheatley, JIPA is 100 córdobas ($5.50) for the guys, Sharon Danley, Tavid Dobson, Ruggiero and 50 ($2.70) for girls. And don’t forget Salvadori, whose wife Galia was home with that if you were at Arribas last Saturday baby Gisele, Sheryl Woodward, Nadene night, you can present your bar receipt Holmes, Camilo Calderon, Doris Lucero, this Saturday and drink the same amount Tanya Ortega, Thalia Drori, Tom and Kelli for free. Bardner, Frank and Vanita Gallo. Infusion Bueno muchachos, have a good time par- Confusion is open Friday and Saturday tying. And remember, if any of the bars evenings, other nights by reservation. close too early for you, you can always head Jackson Pollack-style paintings adorn the to Karaoke Star City and its dico Matrix, walls of Casa Limón, artfully composed by located across from the Hotel Princess, to Troy himself. party until the sun comes up. A dinner for American Legion Nicaragua –Xochitl Ruiz Post 1 members was held at Casa Gallo, [email protected] catered by Pasta Pasta. On hand for this social get-together were Post Commander Masaya Moments Leonel Poveda and his wife Maria Tim Rogers | Nica Times Auxiladora, Vice-Commander Fred Belland and wife, Jaime and Nena Valle, Richard Celebrating Another Year: Nadene Holmes, owner of Granada’s popular A good way to get connected with the community of Masaya is by visiting the and Celeste Johnson and Celeste’s sister Maverick Reading Lounge, celebrated the business’ third anniversary with a Web page vivamasaya.com, which will Marina, Carl and Karolina Currier, Sandy cookout and party Feb. 2. keep you up to date on what is going on in and Kathy Perkoff, Joe Brown and Gillian the city, both with nightlife and special Lythgoe, and hosts the Gallos. Been to Lacayo Super or Lugo Ferretería ladies pay only a 5 córdoba cover with cultural events. The page is continuously Maverick Coffee Shop and Reading lately? Both are well stocked, and we hear open bar for vodka, rum and national updated. Lounge celebrated its third anniversary Feb. the 92-year-old Lugo Ferretería is having its beers. Guys pay 150 córdoba cover ($8.30) The Web page has a large database of 2, with a dinner of a variety of sausages, best business in years. We also hear that for Ladies’ Night. photos from Masaya, including natural chicken filets and pasta salad. A packed Henry, the cat who owns John and Linda If we don’t go to Hipa Hipa, we can be attractions, horse parades, cultural festivals house helped Nadene, Camilo and kids cele- Sauter, may not be the biggest house cat in found at Moods, the new disco in Zona and events, and nightlife pictures from brate. the world, but he weighs in at 23 pounds, Viva, at the Mall Galeria Santo Domingo. bars Aha Bar, Ático, Chapo´s, and Rock We received an e-mail from occasional and somehow fits under the seat on the The recently opened disco has a slightly Arena. visitor to Granada, Noel Montagno,who American Airlines flights. more formal environment, and on The page is a fun way for tourists to has lived in Alajuela, Costa Rica, for a num- –Frank Gallo Wednesdays there is no cover for men or learn about what is going on here, as well as ber of years. Noel has finally made the [email protected] women. for native Masayas who now live in other move and can be found at Casa Miramar at Thursday nights the crowd is at Arribas, cities or countries to stay connected with Playa La Boquita. with 2x1 deals on national beers. If you’re their hometown. There are also photo- Madeline Alpert is working on a Managua Nights looking for a little more movement and graphs from other neighboring cities, such Granada calendar to be updated frequently dancing, nearby Broder has Ladies’ Night as Granada, San Juan del Sur and Managua, and e-mailed. If you have an item or want The week is full of nightlife in on Thursday, where girls get in for free and among others. to be on the e-mail list, you can call her at Managua. Starting Wednesday with Ladies’ guys pay 150 córdoba entrance. –Cecilia Espinoza 682-9444. Night at Hipa Hipa, in Plaza Familiar, This Friday, Feb. 9, don’t miss the concert [email protected] CALENDAR *First time in Calendar. Listings are in chronological order. E-mail Calendar submissions to [email protected] by 11 a.m. Monday, five days prior to date of publication.

*Movie: The film, Tinta Roja, Feb. 14, 8 p.m., Justo Rufino Garay Theater, near Las Managua Palmas Park, 266-3714. Granada *Magic Show: Fernando Keops, the “angel *Anniversary Party: DJ Linux plays at sec- of magic,” Feb. 11, 5 p.m., Rubén Darío *Anti-poetry: As part of the III International ond anniversary celebration for popular Theater, 222-7426. Poetry Festival, a group of “anti-poets” offer night spot, Feb. 9, 8 p.m., Fresh Hill Bar, *Night of Boleros: Various artists play per- their own recital, Feb. 9, 7 p.m., the Bar Casa next to Hospital Militar. cussion and strings, Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m., Bohemia, calle Corrales, next to fire station. *Live Music: Performance by local artist Rubén Darío Theater. *Film Screening: Premier of local produc- Clara Gun at the family restaurant/bar of Lady’s Night: Drink specials every tion, ‘The Condom Squad,’ Feb. 10, 5:30 Carlos Mejía Godoy, Feb. 9, 8 p.m., Casa de Wednesday for women at trendy bar Hipa- p.m., Casa de la Mujer, Calle Calzada. Los Mejía Godoy, in front of Hotel Crowne Hipa, Km. 7.5 on the highway to Masaya, *Concert: Carlos Mejía Godoy closes last Plaza, 362-6110. 278-8504. night of poetry festival, Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m., Tim Rogers | Nica Times *Valentine’s Day Drinks: A “love party,” Live Music: Songs from the 1960s and at Independence Plaza, in front of Feb. 14, at Disco Chaman, Carretera Masaya 1970s, Feb. 9, 8 p.m., Ruta Maya, near Cathedral. The Big Screen: Local film “The one block past Sandy’s, 278-6111. National Stadium, 268-0698. Live Music: The group Clave de Sol, week- Condom Squad,” written, directed and *Love and Peace: Norma Helena Gadea and Latin American Music: Live music week- ends at Café Nuit, Calle Libertad, 612-6721. acted by local teens, will premier 5:30 other musicians play tribute to the spirit of ends, restaurant Intermezzo del Bosque, p.m. Feb. 10 at Granada’s Casa de la Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 8 p.m., Ruta Maya. Live Music: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Hotel Casa outside of Managua, 883-0071. San Francisco, next to Convento, 552-8235. Mujer. THE NICA TIMES – February 9, 2007 | OPINION | 7

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with needles on the end of long canes mer- the article that Tim Rogers wrote on cock- Georgia. Thank You for Article cilessly until he is driven mad with pain and fighting (NT, Jan. 26) did just that. Denning made the “no child left behind” On ‘The Condom Squad’ frustration while cowardly imbeciles enjoy As I was reading the article, another concept a reality rather than a platitude. At his misery. tourist and I started discussing this sport the memorial service for her held in Maine, Dear Nica Times: A sane person cannot relate to this and decided that we should both go. her casket was draped with the flags of behavior. The social or professional position We had an experience we wouldn’t have Guatemala and the United States. Thank you for “The Condom Squad” of the participant does not validate the had otherwise, and I plan to go again. This Given her service to Guatemala and the article (NT, Feb. 2). It takes courage and a activity but degrades the individual. is coming from someone who hasn’t eaten way she represented the United States bit of diplomacy to get such an important Sucking blood from the neck of a rooster chicken or red meat in 20 years! abroad, this was a well-deserved tribute to and controversial story out to the masses. does not prove a man’s virility. At one time More importantly, we were very an extraordinary individual. It is a crime of a generation that the carnivals had a performer called a geek who impressed that Tim Rogers had the courage information is readily available yet bit off the head of a live chicken and ate the to write about a subject that is taboo to so David Stanley sequestered so often. Programs like The chicken raw for the edification of the audi- many Gringos. Paris, Maine, USA Condom Squad are essential because it is ence. He was usually a starving retarded apparent parents don’t always provide this person. Tanya Ortega de Chamberlin History will Prove information. The angle of shaking one’s In old Mexico, men had a way of proving Granada reality through art is self-evident, if one their mettle and settling disputes: each man Value of Free Trade chooses to pay attention. took the end of a bandana in his teeth and U.S. Activist Was Faith can be a healthy addition to one’s they fought with knives, the one to let go Dear Nica Times: reality, but to lay the religion thing on an the bandana lost. That, to me, is true Powerful Role Model adolescent, without any other information machismo. As of Jan. 31, I concluded my mission as about healthy sexuality, is really abuse when If the devotees of cockfighting want to Dear Nica Times: Ambassador of Nicaragua to the United one ponders it. prove themselves they might strip naked, States and Canada, after more than three How dare any society throw sex and vio- arm themselves with razor blades and have The untimely death of Hanley Denning years of having the honor and satisfaction lence at teens (at all of us) and then pull the at it – no question of guts there and we in a traffic accident in Guatemala Jan. 18 of serving my country in this capacity. plug on people asking thoughtful questions would have the satisfaction of seeing as least gives us pause to reflect on the extraordi- Our Nicaraguan communities and their and getting honest answers! one imbecile removed from the gene pool. nary accomplishments of this young members in the United States and Canada Thank you for real journalism. May you woman. fill me with pride. These are healthy, hard- continue to expand the frame of the conver- George Prosser Her life served as a role model for those working communities that never forget sation on many issues. Golfito, Costa Rica working in Nicaragua and other Central their homeland. American countries regarding how to I arrived to my post in Washington, D.C. Scott Douglas Toronja *** implement the United Nations Millennium in November 2003 with a mission: to con- Marina, California, USA Dear Nica Times: Development Goals. tribute our share of work on the part of Her enormous success in helping hun- Nicaragua so that the Central American *** I generally enjoy Tim Rogers’ articles. The dreds of children at the dump in Guatemala Free-Trade Agreement with the United Staes article about cockfighting (NT, Jan. 26), City provides tangible proof of what one (CAFTA) would become a reality. In our Dear Nica Times: however, really threw me off. person can accomplish if she is willing to own way, we had the honor to share in To give enough attention to make it front act. some of the great efforts of so many people I just wanted to tell you, as a journalist, page and such a long article I find unneces- Safe Passage (www.safepassage.org), the from the seven participating nations. what a great job you did with the story sary. To even refer to this barbaric way of organization that Denning founded and of This agreement became a reality due to a about Thalia Drori and her crew, Cineastas treating animals as a sport is, to me, which she was the guiding light, has suc- fortunate coming together of the wills of de Granada (NT, Feb. 2). It was clear, com- deplorable. cessfully focused on addressing the goals of the Presidents and citizens of our countries. prehensive and fun to read. When I see the majority of a society eliminating extreme poverty and achieving Thank you to the Ambassadors of Central It helps that Thalia is my lifelong friend accept such cruelty to animals, it tends to universal primary education. America and the Dominican Republic for and I am enormously proud of her, but that reflect the views of the society in general. The support provided to approximately your sense of brotherhood. Thank you to also allows me to say that I think you did a It is just one of many components to why 500 children includes a pre-school program, each and every one of the participants in the fantastic job capturing the true spirit in Nicaragua has had such a bloody past, as well as moving school-age children from small and great battles for the CAFTA which she works and lives. with dictators and fighting amongst them- scavenging in the dump to the classroom by accord, including the dedicated officials of She is one of the few people I know who selves. funding their school fees. The program also the U.S. government and members of U.S. really “walks the talk.” And you conveyed For someone to think it is OK to suck the obtains parental support for keeping the private enterprise. The legacy of this fight that well in the story about “The Condom blood from the throat of an animal just to children in school by giving food as an will be ratified by history. Squad.” keep it alive to continue to fight, is attendance bonus. My most profound desire is that the rela- Thanks for writing it! appalling. In doing all this, Safe Passage has given tions between the United States and I could say much more but will leave it at hope to the whole community. In addition, Nicaragua continue to be strengthened for Susan Gaines that. many volunteers providing hands-on sup- the mutual benefit of both our peoples. I Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA port have realized that their individual wish the same for our cordial relations with Henry Kantrowitz efforts make a big difference to those in Canada. Cockfighting is a Quebrada Ganado, Costa Rica great need. I submit that Denning did more to help Salvador Stadthagen Sign of Psychosis the people of Central America than the Washington, D.C., USA Cockfighting Tournament hundreds of millions of dollars in weapons Dear Nica Times: Provided Fun Night Out sent to the region by the United States. The educational experience provided to Cockfighting is not sport, it is psychosis. Dear Nica Times: the children in the dump stands in stark See the faces of the spectators, grim, contrast to the devastating effect on the detached, guilty (NT, Jan. 26). Rarely am I inspired to venture out of my poor resulting from the training given to I place it in the same class as bear baiting. small world and give myself a chance to the officer corps of armies in Latin SHUTTLE TO GRANADA AIRPORT A caged or securely tethered bear is pricked experience something totally new. However, America at the School of the Americas in Fixed rates, no surprises U.S.$15 per person each way. Only service leaving Granada in time for first departing flight we are the only one with a counter in the airport • Door-to-door service • Punctual pick up and delivery Get Connected with The Nica Times • Courteous service New vehicles with: A/C, CD/DVD/MP3, Video Screens Community Pages Fully insured in accordance with the laws of Nicaragua. Complimentary bottle of water. Whether you are new to Nicaragua, or have been here for years, The Nica INTUR and EAAI approved RESERVATIONS (505) 552-8291 • 831-9879 Times community and opinion pages are a good way to get connected and Read Us (305) 831-4611 express your thoughts on different issues going on around the country. E-mail: [email protected] WE Online: www.paxeos.com SERVE Readers are encouraged to send letters to the editor, “Perspective” articles Granada, Nicaragua ALL * and calendar events to: [email protected], or [email protected] www.nicatimes.net We accept credit cards. 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Buying and selling is easy and effective with a classified ad in The Tico Times. Faxing it to (country code 506) 233-6378, by mail to The Tico Times, Apdo. 4632-1000, San José, Costa Rica FIND THE NICA TIMES! (U.S. residents send orders to SJO 717, P.O. Box 025331, Miami, FL 33102-5331) or by phone to (country code 506) 258-1558. Visit us online www.ticotimes.net and fill out the classified order form or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Rates for the print-edition classifieds are as follows: Minimum 2 lines for 2 weeks. US $2.50 per line including letters, punctuation and MANAGUA GRANADA spaces. For symbols (star, arrow, check mark) or graphics, contact the Classified Department. • La Colonia Supermercado Hiper • Maverick Reading Room For yellow shading add an additional 40% charge. Finally, add 13% advertising tax to the total of the ad. Santo Domingo • Lacayo Supermercado Minimum 2 publications. We accept VISA, MASTERCARD and AMEX or make checks payable to The Tico Times. • La Colonia Supermercado Plaza • El Club Payment must be made in U.S. dollars. Do not send cash. España • Kathy’s Waffles • Hotel Alhambra BEACH HOUSE for rent. HORSES HORSES • Hotel Las Mercedes 851 Managua Pochomil, one hour from HORSES 18 Excel Pinto Bay • Casa San Francisco white, Parade, pleasure stal- • Hotel Camino Real BEACHFRONT – Managua $595 per week. air conditioned bdrms., huge lions, mares, foals. • Hotel Crowne Plaza SPECIAL Nicaragua, $129,000. Nice, 860-7918. LEON newly remodeled house. porch with hammocks and • Hotel Inter-Metrocentro OFFER Deeded property. great view. Contact Reid at • Hotel El Convento US (731) 986-9837 [email protected] Your ad will be • Hotel Hilton Princess NIC (505) 612-9000 http://www.cyberrentals.com • Hotel Holiday Inn www.bestchoicenicaragua. /Central-America/ seen ‘round SAN JUAN DEL SUR FREE com Nicaragua/vacation-HOUSE- • INTUR • Distribuidora Calderón Pochomil/p140485htm the world! Online Ad MAIL Boxes Etc. Franchise • Casa del Café Airport, Altamira, • Bar Y Restaurant El Timón opportunities in Managua Metrocentro & Santo Domingo with and Granada areas. • El Gato Negro www.mbe.com 852 Granada 853 San Juan del Sur • Ola Verde • Elixir Center Classified [email protected] • Stop & Go Santo Domingo & BAR-RESTAURANT – for • Restaurant El Velero Ad sale in Granada Center, fully Read us Carretera Sur 200+ ACRES with equipped, excellent monthly • Big Wave Dave’s Bar approved plans 260 lots, • Hospital Metropolitano Purchase hotel, bar restaurant, lagoon income. For sale due to per- Online & Restaurant and 600 meters of pristine sonal reasons. • Casa de Las Revistas Airport e-mail: beachfront property. Call: 505-552-2039, www. Nicaragua “Playa Diamante” Cel: 505-843-8335 For more information about distribution contact classified@ 10 year tax exemption. 5.5 nicatimes.net million. Contact APARTMENTS, 20 min. Ivette Sánchez in Managua at 250-1100 or by ticotimes.net Bill@ 505-806-0556 or from Granada, cool climate, [email protected] Laguna view. $275 mo. e-mail: [email protected]

[email protected] LISTA DE PUESTOS NICA W10 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 The Perfect Palm Combo: Pejibaye and Palmito ew plant species TASTE OF Pejibaye and Palmito in Mocha Mexicali THE TROPICS can be considered Fa marvelous dis- Sauce with Cumin Rice covery that has trans- formed human cul- Ingredients: Directions: ture. Bactris gasipaes is definitely one of those 12 pejibayes, cooked, peeled and sliced In a large pan over medium heat, sauté onions in the rare cases in which a 1 lb mixed peeled and chopped tubers (cassava or olive oil for five minutes. Add meat, ginger and gar- plant provides a wide manioc, taro, sweet potato, etc.) lic, and brown for two minutes. Incorporate all variety of products for 200 g chopped chicken, pork, beef or soy substitute remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Lower different uses. The 1 onion, finely chopped heat to a minimum and simmer for a few minutes peach palm supplies 1 cup sliced palmito until most of the liquid has evaporated and the veg- Marco González two of the most deli- cate and exquisite veg- 3 tbs olive oil etables are soft. Adjust flavors and serve accompa- etable products Costa Rica exports to the 1 garlic clove, minced nied with steamed cumin rice. (Makes five servings.) world: peach palm (pejibaye) and heart of 1 tsp grated ginger palm (palmito). 1 tsp tomato paste Steamed Cumin Rice It is thought that plantations already exist- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes Ingredients: ed by the time Columbus arrived on Costa 1 tsp chipotle pepper sauce 2 cups long-grain white rice Rica’s Caribbean island of Uvita in 1502, 2 tbs lemon juice 2 tbs cumin seeds which was appropriately named La Huerta (The Vegetable Garden). It wasn’t until 1541 2/3 cup strong coffee 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup stock or water 1 tbs vegetable oil to 1546 that the first reference to the peach Marco González | Tico Times palm appeared in official colonial records, 1/3 cup brown sugar 1/2 tsp salt when Spanish settlers entered the southern Mixing Palm Products: Pejibaye and 2 tbs Worcestershire sauce 3 cups water hills of the Coaza Cacique territory in palmito in Chef Marco’s “Mocha 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg today’s Talamancas, an area in which a tree 1 tsp cinnamon Directions: locals called “pijibay” (pronounced pe-hee- Mexicali Sauce” with cumin rice. BYE) was more than prominent and utilized 1/2 tsp ground cardamom In a medium-sized pot, cook garlic and cumin seeds by the locals in many ways. that can be cooked in many ways, either 1 tsp ground cinnamon in oil over medium heat for two minutes. Add rice, Conquerors discovered how not only the savory or sweet. Flour, starch and oil are 1/2 tsp ground allspice stirring constantly for one minute. Incorporate water fruit but also the core of the palm was con- extracted from the flesh for both industrial 2 tsp cocoa powder and salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, sumed, and that the palm fronds were used and domestic uses. Palmito is one of the 1/2 tsp salt cover and cook for exactly 15 minutes. Remove from for thatch and the tree trunks for timber. At crispiest and delicious of the edible palms; Pepper to taste heat, fluff with a fork and put aside. that time, the peach palm was cultivated its rich aroma and consistency are compara- throughout southern Mexico and Central ble to those of tender bamboo shoots. America to the Peruvian and Brazilian Chefs from around the globe continue to peach palms in the world, and one of the top and palmito, and are quite discerning when Amazon regions. Although today the peach be inspired by these two ingredients, creating exporters of heart of palm, thanks largely to it comes to quality. Surprisingly, however, palm grows in most tropical areas of the a melting pot of techniques, recipes and the effort of Jorge Mora and his colleagues at the use of pejibaye in local gastronomy is globe, its potential production scale is still in ideas. Their versatility means they are adapt- the University of Costa Rica, whose dedica- rather shy, and it is usually served simply as its infancy. able to almost any kind of cuisine, style, tion and hard work are the backbone of the boiled peach palm with mayonnaise or in Costa Rica and Brazil are the leading technique or flavors. Commonly found in Pejibaye Research and Technology Transfer soup or bread. The same goes for heart of exporters of peach palm products. Pejibaye gourmet markets of New York, London and Program. Gathering all information avail- palm, usually appearing in salads and in the and palmito are considered delicacies sent Tokyo, their prices in these far-off locales able, they have created a database of all things quintessential Tico pie, pastel de arroz con abroad to gourmet markets in the industri- certainly categorize them as “elite” ingredi- peach palm. From seed banking to general palmito, a creamy, buttery, cheesy baked dish alized world. The pejibaye itself is so unique ents, deserving of regal treatment. information, their efforts to utilize the palm with simple flavor but lots of character. in taste that it has been described as some- Many Costa Rican and Brazilian scientists in different ways is finally paying off as peach For this recipe, I chose to combine the two where between a sweet potato and a water are dedicated to the collection, distribution palm is put to use in new ways, such as ani- amazing products from this versatile tree chestnut, with a unique bright orange color and expansion of knowledge of this “perfect mal fodder and industrial raw materials. into one recipe, fusing their flavor and pro- and nutty texture. It is a versatile ingredient palm.” Costa Rica is the largest exporter of Costa Ricans have a keen taste for pejibaye viding a Caribbean twist. ¡Buen provecho!

SPONSOR A TICO RESTAURANTERESTAURANTE TO LEARN ENGLISH Give a fish to a person and you feed CHINESE CUISINE him for a day; teach him to fish and he feeds HOME DELIVERY himself ever after. (Chinese proverb) APARTOTEL 15% off our LA SABANA regular rates* *4-month Rooms and apartments payments We also fully furnished with daily have maid service in a quiet Classes start st Spanish residential area. the 1 week classes Only minutes away of every month from airport and CHEF’S downtown. UNIVERSAL SPECIALTIES: Special weekly DE IDIOMAS ¥Peking Duck and monthly rates Ph. (506) 257-0441 ¥Neptune’s Harvest Tel: (506) 220-2422 Fax (506) 223-9917 ¥Abalone with Chinese Vegetables Fax: (506) 231-7386 P.O. Box 751-2150 Moravia, San José, Costa Rica www.apartotel-lasabana.com http://www.universal-edu.com www.ingles.co.cr “English Department’’ Tel: 228-8105, 228-8091 Free Breakfast Sabana Norte, San José E-mail: [email protected] Address: From Centro Comercial Paco, Valid for 1 person Burger King, 50 m. west, Just three blocks east from the National Theater, 150 m. north 2nd Ave., 9th Street (corner) 2nd floor 90 mts. Northwest, Escazú RESTRICTIONS APPLY 7848 6072 5734 7221 THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W11 Do Kids Today Have More Fun? In Brief… oday’s children and flower petals. es, and fútbol or soccer among Costa Ricans. have an unlim- “We played restaurant and used leaves for Field hockey was also mentioned by a few Tited range of money and served mud pies,” said a Tica. North Americans. Historian Guillermo Volunteer Association toys and games. Not Others mentioned mud fights and dirt-clod Villegas said a game called “sticks” was Recruiting for Park Work s only that, but new battles. played here, a version of baseball using big s s s toys are capable of The game of statues was remembered by sticks for bats and small sticks for balls. Tops, The Protected Area Volunteer Asso- doing much more North Americans, with a Tico version called or trompas, for boys, and jacks, or jackses,for ciation (ASVO) will be recruiting vol- than those of years congelado, or “frozen.” In variations of this girls were mentioned by all Costa Ricans. unteers Feb. 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Mitzi Stark past. Dolls talk, sing, game, you “froze” in position when the des- Cromos is still a popular pastime for young at the Costa Rican-North American eat, burp and creep. ignated “it” tagged you or yelled, “Freeze!” Ticas; colorful pictures on thin paper are Cultural Center in the eastern San José Barbie has careers, drives cars, swims, owns The game most mentioned by men was spread on the ground or table and picked up neighborhood of Barrio Dent. her own real estate and gets pregnant. marbles, or canicas or bolinchas. Marbles are by slapping a flat hand on them. Some girls The nonprofit group, founded in Cars that operate on remote control spin, cheap, and the game requires only a circle in collected them and bookstores still sell them. 1989, states its mission is to provide speed, hurl ramps and crash at the push of a the dust. The rules of the game varied Sports and table games, yo-yos, sliding Costa Rica’s national parks with volun- thumb. Computer games allow kids to pitch depending on where you lived or how rich down hills on cardboard cartons stretched teers – Ticos and foreigners alike – to major-league baseball, score goals in the you were in marbles, and, according to one flat, making forts, making stilts out of tin help preserve the country’s wild places. World Cup, win the Indy 500 or mow down respondent, could be so complicated it was cans tied to feet, having treasure hunts, rid- The popular program boasts more than terrorists. We of yester- ing bikes and stealing 1,500 participants per year. day’s generation had to apples were more ways Opportunities include working with imagine, invent and rely A totally unscientific but revealing survey of of having fun. sea turtles, ecotourism projects, trail on the games passed Sometimes games work, environmental patrols and all down from older siblings. the over-50 crowd, which included Canadians, were invented. In the manner of maintenance programs in Does having more Unitedstatesians and Costa Ricans, showed that coffee town of Grecia, national parks and wildlife refuges. toys mean more fun? Or west of San José, they Activities most often take place on did we kids of long ago everyone played hide-and-seek. Called escondido played a game called weekends, allowing those with busy have good times too, cuartel between two light weekday schedules to participate. deprived as we were of in Spanish, the game is the same. The goal was posts with five boys on Volunteers elect to serve in one of television and videos each team, who could three different categories – occasional, and tons of toys? whatever tree, light post or part of the house tag their opponents and international or permanent – each of A totally unscientific was convenient, and in the great outdoors there jail them at their team’s which is designed to accommodate but revealing survey of light post. They could work or vacation schedules. the over-50 crowd, which were plenty of places to hide… also help team members Thus far, the group has donated the included North Ameri- escape from their oppo- equivalent of ¢102 million (almost cans and Costa Ricans, nents’ jail. $200,000) in man hours to the Ministry showed that everyone played hide-and-seek. a math test figuring out the scores. Big, col- “London Bridge is Falling Down” has its of Environment and Energy (MINAE), Called escondido in Spanish, the game is the orful marbles were treasured and were counterpart in “Jirón, Jirón, Jirón, Donde according to the association’s Web site, same. The goal was whatever tree, light post worth more than dinky glass ones. In Costa Vive Tanta Gente,” in which two kids form www.asvocr.org. or part of the house was convenient, and in Rica, if you didn’t have marbles you could an arch to capture those passing under and For more information, attend the the great outdoors there were plenty of use round chumico seeds. Though none of have them choose a side. Both games end meeting Feb. 13 or contact ASVO places to hide: behind trees, sheds and cor- the women mentioned playing marbles, with a big tug-of-war. directly at 258-4430 or reclutamiento@ ners of the house, lying flat on the ground or some collected them. Several people mentioned the lack of asvocr.org. inside drainage canals. Among women, playing house, or casita, supervision. –Tico Times “Summer was one long game of hide-and- ranked high, but only two women men- “We just went out and played,” explained seek,” said one respondent. tioned playing with dolls. Dressing up was one woman. She added that mothers were Second in importance was playing with part of the game, and one Tica said they usually around somewhere. Tico Director to Film mud. Whether it was making mud pies or stuck flower petals on their nails for nail pol- Today’s children may have more toys and Movie on Isla San Lucas throwing mud balls, there was something ish. Another who came from a large family games and organized activities, but one little wonderful about squishy, wet mud. Both in the Southern Zone said they had dolls Tica discovered the joy of inventing games Isla San Lucas, a natural reserve and men and women made mud pies, but made of corncobs. when she visited relatives on a farm. former prison island in the Gulf of women were more inclined to add berries Baseball was popular among U.S. respons- “It’s fun to throw tomatoes,”she reported. Nicoya on the Pacific coast, will soon be the site of a movie by Costa Rican director Douglas Martin. Martin recently told the daily Al Día he plans to film a movie based on the book “La Isla de los Hombres Solos” (“The Island of Lonely Men”) by Costa Rican author José León Sánchez, which tells his story as a prisoner on the island who was later declared innocent (TT, Beachwear and Gifts Aug. 26, 2005). Filming is set to begin in December, Al Día reported. • Info Center “We’re not basing the movie just on the literary work, but also on the life of • Souvenirs José León Sánchez, who remained in • New and Used Books San Lucas until his innocence was • International Newspapers proven,” said Martin, a five-time winner of the National Prize for Literature. and Magazines Sánchez returned recently to the • Vacation Rentals island where he was incarcerated and called the experience “painful” but said he had to confront his experiences “so Manuel Antonio between that new generations don’t experience Karahé & Piscis the horrors that were experienced there,” including torture. Tel. 777-1002, Fax: 777-1946 Sánchez was sentenced to jail in 1950 for committing murder while robbing jewels from the Los Angeles Basilica in Cartago, east of San José. He got out of prison in 1969 but was not declared innocent by the Penal Branch of the Supreme Court (Sala III) until 1999. –Tico Times 18979 8036 8186 W12 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 Action on Pacific Hotter by the Day here are plenty Karl Angersbach and his gang of six from with free jumpers and surface swimmers of tarpon on New Jersey were back in Costa Rica on their everywhere. Simply Romantic - A lovely Tthe northern annual visit last week, fishing again with my Most of the fish are from 14 to 30 miles meal. Food is love. Who says Caribbean coast, and son Rick Ruhlow on the Kingfisher, the out. Fortney said Rhode Island angler and Valentine’s Day is just for judging from reports Flamingo II and Permit III out of Playa skipper Lynn Smith released a large sail after the Pacific is seeing Carrillo, and their timing couldn’t have been a number of raises, and Lou Remado from the two of you? all the action you can better. Angersbach fished on the Kingfisher, New York also scored. We cook up an indulgent handle most any taking top honors with five marlin, a bunch of “This week so far we have raised six to dinner at Mundo that’s Jerry Ruhlow place you can get a sails and, of course, the ever-plentiful dorado. eight every day and released five … and worth sharing with friends. line in the water. “I have landed a number of striped marlin while dorado fishing is good, the people On the Caribbean, Dan Wise reports from in the past few years, but on day one of this want the sails,” he added. LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC Río Colorado Lodge that Carrie Minnick trip, I finally caught my first blue marlin and Capt. Mark Corn of Southern Costa Rica and Rob Gollahon, from Virginia, in two added another on the last day, with both Sportfishing writes via e-mail that on Jan. 24 Located in Plaza Itskatzu, below Hooters days of fishing jumped four tarpon, and the taken on the Kingfisher,” he said. he and Keith Kelly had an experience that he Phone 289-9860 * San Rafael, Escazu largest to the boat exceeded 100 pounds. They even asked my granddaughter Kerry had never seen in 13 years chartering off the Locales 129, 130 Texas anglers Edward and Bo Badouh had along on the last day in an effort to get her southern Pacific coast. 8360 three in the air but none to the boat on a one- her first marlin. The two anglers nailed a “We were three miles off the rock of day trip, while Walley Lebrun and wife Aurora striped and a blue, with Kerry up next, but Matapalo and had four big marlin in the boated nine snook, the largest 22 pounds, in unfortunately the bite died in the afternoon spread at once,” he said. “We managed to three days at the lodge, along with a cubera and they didn’t see another fish. Sounds like hook three, and in one hour released one that CONTACT LENSES snapper and a bunch of big jack crevalle. Kerry doesn’t have any better luck than her would have run 400 pounds, another 300 Wise said Jeanine and Michael Freitz, grandpa. Must run in the family. pounds, and broke the leader on the third.” from New Jersey, in two three-hour after- Reports indicate the fishing continues at a He added that they also released three sails •Aspherics •Torics •Color noon sessions jumped 10 tarpon and boated torrid pace all along the Pacific coast. and were back at the docks by 1 p.m. For three, while a Mississippi angler in one day Kent Maliowski reports that about a more information, contact Corn at 735-5292 jumped three tarpon and boated two. week ago his Los Sueños-based skipper and or [email protected], or go to his Web And the action on the Pacific seems to be boat in the middle of the night rescued a site at www.costaricasportsman.com. improving every day. sinking U.S.-owned boat 30 miles offshore I had an e-mail from a gentleman who ALL out of Los Sueños Marina on the central wants to know if anyone here in Costa Rica SIZES Pacific coast. I tried to contact him for offers kayak fishing. I am not aware of any, more details, but was unable to reach him but if anyone does, please let me know and also contact [email protected]. Cheaper than U.S. prices by press time. CENTRAL AMERICAÕS LEADING ENGLISH-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER I never did get the final results of the Immediate delivery Harry Grey Fly Fishing Tournament out of For information on fishing or assistance plan- We ship worldwide Read Us Online: Quepos or the other tournament scheduled ning a trip to Costa Rica, call Jerry at 282- 800-266-3678 Costa Rica last week out of Los Sueños Marina. 6743 or e-mail [email protected]. Skip- +1 (336) 510-5615 USA www.ticotimes.net From Dominical, on the southern coast, pers, lodge operators and anglers are invited to [email protected] Nick Fortney of Costa Rica Hooksetters contact Jerry with fishing reports by noon

7572 said they are raising four to eight sails a day, Monday of each week.

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Mon – Fri 9 AM – 7 PM ABOARD (506) 208-1211 BENEFITS (506) 208-1363 INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL or e-mail us to: TRAVEL INSURANCE [email protected] Real TexMex food Kidnap + Ransom Coverage EDUARDO HUERTAS, M.D. Pool table 22 elegant hotel rooms, starting at $49 “Don’t leave home without it” Spinal Neurosurgeon Attractive and service-oriented staff www.allaboardbenefits.com On-line Quotes www.NeuroEspinal.com *Individuals *Groups 7571 7344 7948 THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W13 THIS WEEK’S MOVIES *New this week. In general, movies in English have Spanish subtitles; children’s movies are dubbed in Spanish with no subtitles and foreign-language films have Spanish subtitles. Because movie times change frequently, we publish only movie names, descriptions and theaters. Please call theaters (see box at right) for schedule information. Note: Theaters that fail to send us their schedules by deadline may not be listed; we apologize for any inconvenience.

*11:14 (Hora de Morir): Five different but connect- es its currency to euros. Starring Alex Etel, Lewis ed storylines converge one tragic evening at 11:14 McGibbon, James Nesbitt. Directed by Danny Boyle. p.m. Starring Hilary Swank, Henry Thomas, Patrick Internacional, Liberia, San Pedro. Swayze. Directed by Greg Marcks. Cinemark del Este, Cinemas Night at the Museum (Una Noche en el Cinemark Escazú, Cinépolis, Internacional, San Pedro. Museo): A bumbling security guard at the American ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE | Barrio Amón, An Inconvenient Truth (Una Verdad Incómoda): Museum of Natural History accidentally lets loose an Av. 7, Ca. 5, 222-2283 A documentary on former U.S. Vice-President Al ancient curse that brings the animals and exhibits on display to life and mayhem. Starring Ben Stiller, Robin CARIARI 1-6 | Plaza Real Cariari, Gore’s campaign to make the issue of global warming Barreal de Heredia, 293-3300 a recognized problem worldwide. Directed by Davis Williams, Dick Van Dyke. Directed by Shawn Levy. Guggenheim. Outlet Mall. Cariari, Cinemark del Este, Cinemark Escazú, Cinépo- CENTRO DE CINE | Barrio Otoya, Av. 9, lis, Liberia, Pérez Zeledón, San Carlos, San Pedro. Ca. 11, 223-2127, 223-0610 Babel (Babel): Based on the theme of communica- Reconstruction (Reconstrucción de un Amor): CINEMARK DEL ESTE | Multiplaza del tion breakdowns, four interlocking, tragic storylines Courtesy Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., Virtual Studios Este, Curridabat, 280-0490 take place in Morocco, Mexico and Japan. Winner of In Danish with Spanish subtitles. A young man aban- the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Set in Africa: Leonardo DiCaprio dons his girlfriend one evening to follow a beautiful CINEMARK ESCAZÚ | Multiplaza, Escazú, 201-5050, www.cinemarkca.com Drama, and nominated for seven Academy Awards. and Djimon Hounsou star in “Blood stranger, and finds he cannot turn back. Starring Niko- Starring Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Gael García Bernal. laj Lie Kaas, Maria Bonnevie. Directed by Christoffer CINÉPOLIS 1-15 | Terramall, Tres Ríos, Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu. Cariari, Cine- Diamond,” now in theaters. Boe. Sala Garbo. 278-3631, 518-0002 (reservations available) mark del Este, Cinemark Escazú, Cinépolis, Flores, The Illusionist (El Ilusionista): Set in Vienna Magaly, Plaza Mayor, San Pedro. in the early 1900s. A magician in love with an un- COLONIAL 1-2 | Plaza Colonial, Escazú, 289-9000 Caine. Directed by Alfonso Cuarón. Cinemark del Este, attainable woman uses his powers to get what he *Blood Diamond (Diamante de Sangre): The Cinemark Escazú, Colonial, Flores, Outlet Mall, Pérez fates of a South African mercenary and a Mende fish- wants. Starring Edward Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessi- FLORES 1-5 | Paseo de las Flores Zeledón, San Carlos, San Pedro. Mall, Heredia, 237-6263 erman become entwined in a quest to recover a price- ca Biel. Directed by Neil Burger. Cinépolis, Colon- less diamond that could transform their lives. Starring Déjà Vu (Déjà Vu): A law enforcement officer travels ial, Internacional, Liberia, Outlet Mall, Pérez Zeledón, GRECIA | Fábrica Entertainment Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, Jennifer Con- back in time to prevent a bombing and the murder of a San Ramón. Center, 800 m west of Shell station, Grecia, 495-6000 nelly. Directed by Edward Zwick. Cariari, Cinemark del woman with whom he has fallen in love. Starring The White Masai (La Princesa Masai): In Eng- Este, Cinemark Escazú, Cinépolis, Flores, Internacion- Denzel Washington, Paula Patton, Val Kilmer. Directed lish and German with Spanish subtitles. A European INTERNACIONAL 1-4 | Mall Internacional, al, Liberia, Pérez Zeledón, San Pedro, San Ramón. by Tony Scott. Cariari, Cinemark del Este, Cinemark woman falls in love with a man of the Masai in Kenya Alajuela, 442-6100 Escazú, Cinépolis, Liberia. and must adapt to the tribe’s way of life. Based on the LIBERIA 1-4 | Centro Plaza Liberia, Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make 1 km before Liberia, 665-2335 Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (Borat): *French Film Festival: Sueños de Orquesta, Feb. autobiographical novel by Swiss author Corinne Hof- A mockumentary comedy about the outrageous adven- 9, 19, 22; Peligro Hombres Trabajando, Feb. 10, 14, mann. Starring Nina Hoss, Jacky Ido. Directed by Her- MAGALY | Ca. 23, Av. Ctrl./1, tures of a Kazakh TV journalist who journeys to the 18; Kirikou y Las Bestias Salvajes, Feb. 11, 17; La mine Huntgeburth. Outlet Mall. 905-246-3722 (for schedules in CCM), 223-0085, 221-6272 United States to make a documentary about the great- Comedia del Poder, Feb. 12, 16; Hacia el Sur, Feb. 13, *They (Habitantes de la Oscuridad): After wit- est country in the world. Starring Sacha Baron Cohen, 21; La Ex Mujer de mi Vida, Feb. 15, 20, all in French nessing a traumatic, horrifying event, a woman gradu- OUTLET MALL | San Pedro, 234-8868, Ken Davitian. Directed by Larry Charles. Cinemark del with subtitles in Spanish, Outlet Mall. ally comes to the realization that the nightmares she 283-2146 Este, Cinemark Escazú, Cinépolis, Flores, Internacion- Hoodwinked! (Buza Caperuza): An animated, had as a child could be real. Starring Laura Regan, PARAÍSO 1-3 | Mall Paraíso, Paraíso, al, San Pedro. modern version of Little Red Riding Hood. Directed by Marc Blucas, Ethan Embry. Directed by Robert Harmon Cartago, 592-3133 Charlotte’s Web (La Telaraña de Charlotte): Cory Edwards and Todd Edwards. Cariari, Cinemark and Rick Bota. Cariari, Cinépolis, Flores, San Pedro, PÉREZ ZELEDÓN | Monte General Based on the classic children’s book by E.B. White. del Este, Cinépolis, Flores, Grecia, Internacional, San San Ramón. Shopping Center, 772-6780 Pedro, San Ramón. Charlotte the spider and Wilbur the pig hatch a plan to Toolbox Murders (Hotel del Terror): A young PLAZA MAYOR 1-2 | Rohrmoser, keep Wilbur from ending up on Farmer Arable’s dinner Little Miss Sunshine (Pequeña Miss Sun- couple moves into an historic Hollywood apartment 232-0621 (reservations available) table. Starring Dakota Fanning. Directed by Gary Win- shine): Dysfunction takes a road trip when the Hoover block and starts renovating the building, only to SALA GARBO | Av. 2, Ca. 28, 222-1034, ick. Cinemark del Este, Cinemark Escazú, Cinépolis, family piles into its VW bus to escort young Olive to a unleash a supernatural evil. Starring Angela Bettis, 223-1960 San Pedro. beauty pageant in far-off California. Starring Greg Kin- Brent Roam. Directed by Tobe Hooper. Cariari, Cinépo- SAN CARLOS 1-3 | Ciudad Quesada, Children of Men (Niños del Hombre): In the year near, Alan Arkin, Toni Collette, Steve Carell. Directed lis, Internacional, San Pedro. 460-6202 by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. Cariari, Cine- 2027, with humans suffering a massive infertility crisis Una Película de Huevos: In Spanish. A little egg SAN PEDRO 1-10 | Mall San Pedro, and the world’s youngest citizen dead at 18, a disillu- mark del Este, Cinemark Escazú, Cinépolis, Plaza named Toto embarks on an adventure to save himself 283-5716, 280-9585 Mayor, San Carlos, San Pedro. sioned former activist must deliver a miraculously from the frying pan and live to become a chicken. SAN RAMÓN 1-3 | Alajuela, 447-7120 pregnant woman to safety and protect humankind’s last Millions (Millonarios): A 5-year-old boy finds a Directed by Gabriel and Rodolfo Riva Palacio Alatriste. VARIEDADES | Ca. 5, Av. Ctrl./1, hope. Starring Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael bag of pounds only a few days before England switch- Liberia, San Pedro. 222-6108 ‘Borat’ Worth Seeing, but No More than Once

hen you bridge graduate is considered a comedic Reel Talk Movie Rating watch genius in many respects. Those of us who W comedy, have seen skits from his TV program “Da Ali “Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for you’re really not ex- G Show” know the man has talent. Not only Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan” pecting much. After does he have a chameleonic approach to act- REELREEL all, any fool can make ing (only approach, in my humble opinion), TATAL K you laugh. How else but also his show’s subject matter is contro- could Hollywood get versial and relevant on a social level. He Hugo Marenco away with crappy wants to make you think and laugh at the be either giving away the movie or criticizing comedies such as the recent “The Cleaner” same time. A key ingredient to this is how he the United States, both of which I’m sure (which hasn’t hit theaters here, and let’s hope invites real-life professionals, social workers you could probably do without. I guess I it doesn’t) or Rob Schneider flicks such as and drug experts onto the show, interviews could tell you that he falls in love with a mag- “Animal” and “Hot Chick”? We could also them and asks them what would seem to be azine photo of Pamela Anderson. talk about Will Ferrel and his collaborations. ridiculous questions but in fact touch upon This is a movie you should see, at most, Entertaining? Maybe. Worth a second look? issues that merit reflection and thought. once, if only for the renowned naked fight Not likely. Movies like these just need to sur- Upon realizing they really don’t have an scene – and that’s all I’m going to say about vive for a couple of weeks at the box office answer, the guests are ridiculed live onstage, that. There are dull moments that really dis- and then, after they’ve made their profit, while Cohen brilliantly plays his Ali G part. connect you from the experience, and it’s they’re gone. In “Borat,” Cohen plays, well, Borat, a filmed documentary style so it’s got a docu- Does “Borat” fall within this category? No. Kazakh reporter on a mission: to gather “cul- mentary lag to it. But in the end, it’s worth

Let’s see why. tural learnings of America for make benefit seeing at the theater or as a rental for the sheer Photo courtesy of DISCINE S.A. It’s impossible to talk about “Borat” with- glorious nation of Kazakhstan.” The “guest” enjoyment of watching people ridicule them- out explaining a little about Sacha Baron in the show this time around is the United selves. And it’s definitely not your usual slap- Quite the Character: British comedi- Cohen. The Jewish Englishman and Cam- States. Explaining more on this point would stick comedy – there’s some substance to it. an Sacha Baron Cohen is Borat. W14 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 CALENDAR *First time in Calendar. Listings are in chronological order. E-mail Calendar submissions to [email protected] by 11 a.m. Monday, five days prior to date of publication.

March 7-11, Cine Variedades, Ca. 5, Av. Ctrl./1, 222-6108. What to Do This Weekend *Expoempleo Job Fair: March 9-11, Hotel San José Palacio, La Uruca, www.expoempleo.net. TODAY www.puntarenas.com/carnavales/progra- *Craft Fair: Including cultural events, March ma.html. 10-11, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Parque España, Parque Orange Fair: Dance, theater, marimba music, Morazán and Jardín de Paz (in front of Escuela Feb. 9-11, 16-18, Ciudad Colón, 249-1050. *Piano Concert: By Jorge Erick Alfaro, Feb. Metálica), Ca.9/11, Av. 3/7, 295-6275. Kabbalah Seminar: Led by by Soizic Aureli, 10, 5 p.m., José Figueres Ferrer Cultural Center. *Coast to Coast Challenge: Competitors cross Feb. 9-11, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., at a private resi- towns, mountains, rivers, on foot, riding bikes, dence in Pozos de Santa Ana, reserve at 249- *Green Community Forum: Art, meditation, paddling, 450 km, March 11-17, 280-8054, 1856, [email protected]. live music, circus acts, drinks, appetizers, Feb. ext. 20. *International Suzuki Festival: Feb. 9, 6 p.m., 10, 5:30 p.m., Barracuda Art Gallery, Tamarin- do, Guanacaste, [email protected]. *Women’s Club of Costa Rica Luncheon: Parque Sendas, Guadalupe, 232-3999. March 14, 11:30 a.m., Ramada Plaza Kantera in Concert: Feb. 9, 7:30 p.m., Café de *Son de Tiquizia in Concert: Salsa, Feb. 10, Herradura, Ciudad Cariari, 282-6801, 430- Playa, Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, 900 m 10 p.m., Jazz Café. 5322. east of Calle Chorrera, 670-1471. Photo courtesy of La Vida Loca *National Orchid Show: 1,500 local, foreign species, hybrids on display March 16-18, 8 “Oleanna”: Written by David Mamet, play Blues guitarist John Swan gets down SUNDAY about sexual harrassment, Feb. 9-10, 8 p.m., a.m.-6 p.m., Cariari Country Club, Ciudad in Guanacaste tonight and Sunday at *Singles in the Saddle: Feb. 11, 1-5 p.m., Cariari, Heredia, 240-4269. Eugene O’Neill Theater, Costa Rica-North Bar La Vida Loca in Playas del Coco. Finca Caballo Loco, El Rodeo, Ciudad Colón, American Cultural Center, 205-4104. 386-4586, 386-4586. *Health Fair: March 21-22, University of Costa Rica, San Pedro campus, 207-4025. Johnny Dread and Bamaselo in Concert: Feb. Directing Workshop: In English, directed by *Casting for Spring Show: Auditions for 9, 9 p.m., Salón Monrio, Turrialba, 863-0395. David King, Feb. 10, 1-5 p.m., Blanche Brown singers, musicians and dancers, Feb.11-13, 3 Playas del Coco Blues Fest: John Swan, Feb. Theatre, Bello Horizonte, Escazú, 355-1623. p.m.; performance dates April 13-15, 20-22, 9; with Blues Devils, Feb. 11, both at 9 p.m., Música en las Gradas: Liverpool, Feb. 10, 3 Villas Río Mar Conference Center, Dominical, Art Bar La Vida Loca, Playas del Coco, Guana- p.m., Gold Museum amphitheater, underneath 787-8007, 850-7477. caste, 670-0181. Plaza de la Cultura. Camerata Académica Bach Summer Concert: Guillermo Trejos Cob: Watercolors, Galería *Mario Ulloa in Concert: Classical and Latin Albinoni, Mozart, Handel, Feb. 11, 6 p.m., Woods, Monteverde center, next to Super- *Cultural Encounter: Folkloric dances by mercado La Esperanza. music, Feb. 9, 10 p.m., Jazz Café. Nandayure Dance Group, food sales, Feb. 10, INBioparque, Santo Domingo, Heredia, 507- 8132, 507-8107. Judith Fernández Vílchez: Sculptures, through 4 p.m.; Feb. 11, 10 a.m., Carmona de Feb. 15, Fine Art Gallery of the University of SATURDAY Nandayure, Guanacaste, 665-2996. “The Diary of Anne Frank”: Performed by a Costa Rica, San Pedro campus. *Exchange Day: Feb. 10, including a mask *Puntarenas Carnival: Food sales, rides, local theater group, Feb. 11, 8 p.m., Melico Salazar Theater. *Marta Eugenia Yglesias Piza: Painting, workshop for Children, 11 a.m.; carnival, 2 dances, sports, parades, through Feb. 18; through Feb. 15, Mexico Institute. p.m.; popular dance show, 3 p.m.; book horse parade, Feb. 10, 4 p.m.; carnival, Feb. *Allan Guzmán in Concert: Trova, Feb. 11, exchange all day, Spanish Cultural Center. 17, 5 p.m., Paseo de los Turistas, Puntarenas, 9:30 p.m., Jazz Café. Verónica Navarro: “Contorsiones,” through Feb. 15, Dau al Set Gallery, 75 m west of Más x Menos, Cuesta de Moras, downtown San Women’s Club of Costa Rica Tea: Feb. 14, 2 Initiation in Shaolin Qi Gong: Nine-hour train- José, 221-2484. p.m., Barrio 7 (Rohrmoser, Pavas, Sabana, La ing with Pragata, Feb. 17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Feb. *Collective Art Exhibits: “Límites, Rutas Specials Uruca). Call 268-6130, 268-7367 or 244-3669 18, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Janine Yoga Studio, San Intangibles and Noticias del Filibustero,” sculp- for directions. Rafael de Escazú, 289-7524, tures, painting, installations, through Feb. 17, Summer Tango Class: Including meals, lodg- *Film Festival: “Yerma,” Feb. 14; “Planta,” [email protected]. Contemporary Art and Design Museum, 257- ing, guide, T-shirt, transportation, entrance Feb. 28, 7 p.m., Spanish Cultural Center. *Mardi Gras Celebration: Feb. 18, 10 a.m., 7202, 257-9370. fees, through March 13, Tuesdays, 6-7:30 Workshop on How to Give a Speech: Feb. 15- Las Candelillas, Higuito, San Mateo, road to “Estrecho Dudoso – Doubtful Strait”: Visual p.m., Fantasía Tango, San Pedro de Montes de 16, 5-9 p.m., Costa Rican Chamber of Com- Esparza, 428-9157, 428-8434. arts event organized by TEOR/éTica, featuring Oca, 50 m north of Il Pomodoro, 285-4143. merce, 221-0005. *Da Vinci Code and the Divine Feminine: 70 artists from 28 countries, sculpture, instal- *Cultural Shows: Storytelling, poetry, theater, Hike to Maderas Volcano on Ometepe Island, Session 1, Feb.18, 1-2 pm; session 2, Feb. 25, lations, paintings, through Feb. 18, Contempo- dance, music, Feb. 12, 6 p.m., Teatro Alterarte, Nicaragua: Organized by Aventuras Rurales, 2-3 p.m., presented by international guest lec- rary Art Museum (CENAC), Costa Rican Art Liberia; Feb. 19, 7 p.m., Casa de la Cultura, Feb. 16-18, 223-8509, 248-9470. turer Garrett Riegg, Unity, Piedades, Santa Museum, National Museum, Juan Santamaría Nicoya, Guanacaste. Ana, 203-4411. Museum, Gold Museum (underneath Plaza de *La Fortuna Fair: Cattle shows, food, horse la Cultura), 233-4881. Conferences for Health Professionals: Human parade, Feb. 16-18, 479-9185. *Tennis Friendship Tournament: Feb. 19-24, Relationships in the Medical Field, by Dr. Kris- Costa Rica Country Club, Escazú, 892-9097. Lucinda Tosi: Watercolors, through Feb. 18, El ten Swanson, Feb. 12, 7 p.m.; Ethics and Tango Show: Feb. 16-17, 8 p.m., Melico Sala- Señor de Sipán, old road to Tres Ríos, 300 m zar Theater, tickets at www.mundoticket.com. National Surf Circuit Competitions: Trofeo Health, by Dr. Sarah Shannon, Feb. 19, 7 p.m., Freestyle (Open, Juniors), Feb. 24-25, Nosara, west of the cemetery, 278-2978. both at the Clínica Bíblica auditorium, 4th floor, *Expoferia Orosi Colonial: Contests, crafts, Guanacaste; Trofeo Playa del Carmen (Open, Tamara Ávalos: Ceramics, through Feb. 23, 685-0843. food, Feb. 17-18, in front of the Colonial Juniors), March 17-18, Playa Santa Teresa, Sophia Wanamaker Galería, Costa Rican-North Film Festival: Feb. 13; “Acción Mutante” Church, Orosi. Puntarenas; Grand Final, April (date TBA), Playa American Cultural Center, Barrio Dent. (Spain, 1993), Feb. 20; “Wild at Heart” (U.S., *Legalize It Surf Tournament: Feb. 17-18, Hermosa, Puntarenas, www.surfingcr.net. “Hanging Music”: Interactive sculptures by 1990), Feb. 27, all at 6:30 p.m., Contemporary Puerto Viejo, Limón, 885-9688, betolocks@ *Sun Fair: Exhibit, food made in “sun ovens,” Erika Stanley, through Feb. 26, Galería Valanti, Art and Design Museum. hotmail.com. Feb. 24, 7 a.m., Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Marina Village, Los Sueños, Playa Herradura, 7th Annual “Have a Heart” Charity Golf Tour- *World Family Yoga Annual Retreat: With Guanacaste, 681-1015. Puntarenas, 637-8412, 637-8421. nament: All proceeds benefit area education, Peggy Profant, Christine McArdle-Oquendo, Organic Fair: Including workshops on planting “Casa de Cuatro Pisos” Collective Art Show: Feb. 14, Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, Guana- Feb. 17-24, Feb. 25-March 4, Guaria de Osa, and fertilization, Feb. 24, 10 a.m., El Brujo, Río Installations and engravings, through Feb. 28, caste, 653-0270. Osa Peninsula, www.guariadeosa.com. Nuevo, Pérez Zeledón, 884-6560. Taller del Artista, old road to Tres Ríos, 278- *Brazilian Carnival: Feb. 24, 8 p.m., San José 3594. Palacio Hotel, La Uruca, 222-5753. Franco Mungía: Cartoons, through Feb. 28, Venue Information *Zarcero Fair: Exhibits, rodeo, bullfights, cul- José Figueres Ferrer Cultural Center. tural events, March 2-12, fairground in Zar- Grace Herrera Amighetti: Handmade paper, Alliance Française, Barrio Amón, Av. 7, Ca. 5, 222- José Figueres Ferrer Cultural Center, San Ramón, cero, Alajuela, 854-3480. through Feb. 28, Sophia Wanamaker Galería, 2283. Alajuela, 447-2178. *Healing Sleep Retreat: Led by Michael La Sabana. Calderón Guardia Museum, Barrio Escalante, 222- José Figueres Ferrer Cultural House, Barrio Esca- 6392. lante, 224-0010. Krugman, March 3-10, Guaria de Osa, *John Dessarzin: Nature photography, Peninsula de Osa, www.guariadeosa.com. through Feb. 28, National Gallery, Children’s CENAC (FANAL), Av. 3/5, Ca. 11/15, 221-2154. Juan Santamaría Museum, Alajuela, 447-2178. Museum. Centro de Cine, Barrio Amón, 223-2127, 223-0610. Melico Salazar Theater, Av. 2, Ca. Ctrl./2, 257-6005. *Newcomers Monthly Meeting: With guest Centro Cultural del Este, Guadalupe, 234-2926. Mexico Institute, Ca. 41, Av. 10, 283-2333. speaker Dr. Maida Farnell Wimberly, discussing Ricardo Rodríguez: Watercolors, through Feb. Children’s Museum, end Ca. 4, 258-4929. Museum of Forms, Spaces and Sounds, Av. 3, “what you do or don’t want to know about 28, José Figueres Ferrer Cultural Center. dengue and parasites of Costa Rica,” March 6, Contemporary Art and Design Museum, Av. 3, Ca. 21, 256-1281. Gilmar Maccagnan: Brazilian photographer, Ca. 15/17, 257-9370. National Museum, Ca. 17, Av. Ctrl./2, 257-1433. 9:30 a.m., Cuidad Colón, 416-6165, newcom- through March 1, Multiplaza Escazú, 892- [email protected]. Costa Rican Art Museum, east side of La Sabana National Theater, Av. 2, Ca. 3/5, 221-9417. 9097, 377-9097. Park, 222-7932. Parque de Diversiones, La Uruca, 2 km west of *Construction Fair: Talks, exhibits of construc- “El Urbanismo en el Nuevo Mundo”: Exhibit Costa Rican-North American Cultural Center, Barrio Hospital México, parallel road to highway, 290-3035. tion and decoration items, March 7-11, Herra- of Spanish colonial maps, plans and drawings, Dent, 207-7554. Spanish Cultural Center, Barrio Escalante, Av. 13, dura Hotel, Ciudad Cariari, 253-5757. through April 28, León Fernández exhibit hall, Jazz Café, San Pedro, 253-8933. Ca. 31, 257-2919. *Madre Tierra, Terra Nostra Film Festival: National Archives, Zapote, 234-7689, 283-1400. THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | WEEKEND | W15 CALENDAR

B.M. McMullen: Acid on stainless steel, Cañafístula, Guanacaste. “Sexolorrisas”: Comedy, Fri.-Sun., 8 p.m., through May 15, Galería Klaus Steinmetz, 25 B’nai Israel, 231-5243, La Sabana. Teatro Chaplin, 100 m south, 125 m east of m east of Plaza Rolex, Escazú, 289-5403; AyA, Paseo de los Estudiantes, 221-0812, 832- romantic bronze and marble sculptures, Chabad Lubavitch, 296-6565, Rohrmoser. 2516. through May 31, Kandinsky Galería, Centro Christian Center, 494-0970, Grecia. “Suegras Bárbaras”: Comedy, Fri.-Sun., 8 Comercial de la Calle Real, #20, San Pedro, Church of Christ, English 834-8825, Spanish p.m., La Comedia Theater, Av. Ctrl., Ca. 13/15, 234-0478. 839-4331, Cartago. 233-2170. Dinorah Bolandi: Drawings, textiles, oils, El Shaddai Christian Church, 846-7208, Santa “Teta que Mano No Cubre No Es Teta, Es through June 15, Gold Museum, beneath Plaza Ana. Ubre”: Comedy, Fri.-Sun., 8 p.m., La Esquina de la Cultura, 243-4219. Theater, Av. 1, Ca., 21, 257-0223. English Roman Catholic Mass, 221-3820, Sat., 4 p.m., cathedral, Ca. Ctrl./1, Av. 2/4, San “VIP Zona Roja”: Drama about life in marginal José. areas, Fri.-Sun., 8 p.m., Teatro de San José, Ca. 15, Av. 8/10, 256-5752. Kids Episcopal Church, 225-0209, Zapote. “DUDA”: Drama by J.P. Shanley, through April Activities at Santa Ana Conservation Center: Escazú Christian Fellowship (interdenomina- 1, Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 5 p.m., Teatro Dionisio, Frogs and Toads, kids 3-12, Feb. 9, 9 a.m., tional), 395-9653, Escazú. Café Britt, Heredia, 500 m north, 400 m west registration at 256-0012, 233-6701. Guadalupe Missionary Baptist Temple, 224- of AutoMercado, road to Barva, 385-0955. “Tío Conejo”: Children’s play, Sat.-Sun., 11 4258, Guadalupe. Directing Workshop: In English, directed by a.m., 3 p.m., Teatro Tío Conejo, Pueblo Hare Krishna Center Gaudiya Math, 256- David King, Feb. 10, 1-5 p.m., Blanche Brown Antigüo, Parque de Diversiones, La Uruca, 8650, Cuesta de Núñez, #1331. Theatre, Bello Horizonte, Escazú, 355-1623. Photo courtesy of Central Bank Museums 253-5518. Iglesia Sion de Costa Rica (Korean spoken), *“Strawberries in January”: A romantic com- A variety of works including draw- 236-9959, Santo Domingo, Heredia. edy in English, with guest director David King ings, textiles and oils by renowned International Baptist Church, 365-1005, from Canada, Feb. 23-March 11, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 Costa Rican artist Dinorah Bolandi go Music Escazú. p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m., Blanche Brown Theatre, on exhibit today in the temporary Bello Horizonte, Escazú, 355-1623, www.little exhibit hall of Central Bank Museums International Christian Youth Group, 279- theatregroup.org. Fundraiser to benefit the *Jean Pierre Allaire in Concert: Greatest hits 6781, San Francisco de Dos Ríos. in downtown San José. The exhibit of the ’60s and ’70s, Feb. 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, Canadian Club, Feb. 25, 2 p.m., 888-7089, will be in place through June 15. 23, 25, 27, Villa del Sueño hotel and restau- International Church El Gran Rebaño, 289- 289-9831. rant, Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste. 9920, Escazú. Concerts at Café de Playa: Feb. 14, Ray Tico, Jehovah’s Witnesses English Group, 398- with Fidel Gamboa and Manuel Obregón; Feb. 3657. CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 16, Sasha Campbell; Feb. 23, Calypso Limón Liberia Community Church, 654-4446, Ciudad The following groups meet regularly and welcome visitors: Legends, March 2, Editus and Marta Fonseca; Blanca Christian School, Liberia. all at 7:30 p.m., Café de Playa, Playas del Ministries to the English-Speaking, 226- Alcoholics Anonymous, groups meet daily through- Herbalife and Weight Control Support Group, Coco, Guanacaste, 900 m east of Calle 1314, San Francisco de Dos Ríos. out the country; times and places change frequently, [email protected]. Chorrera, 670-1471. call for up-to-date information. In San José, 222- The International Gay and Lesbian Assocation, Rick, Our Father’s House, 377-6123. 1880 (Anchor Club, also serves Narcotics Anony- 280-3548. *Francisco Céspedes in Concert: Ballads cele- mous), Av. 6, Ca. 1, 2nd floor, Maryland Building; brating Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 8 p.m., Quaker Meeting at Friends Peace Center, Heredia, Laura, 267-7466; Atenas, Tom, 373-3629, La Leche League (for nursing moms), Nancy, 228- Herradura Hotel, Ciudad Cariari, 223-2321. 222-1400, Ca. 15, Av. 6/8. 446-3383; Puerto Viejo, Limón, 750-0080; Zancudo, 0941. 776-0012; Tamarindo, 653-0897; Flamingo, Don, Language Exchange: Universal de Idiomas, Av. 2, Ca. Johnny Dread and Bamaselo in Concert: Feb. Reformed Baptist Church of Los Lagos, 482- 2335, English service, Sun., 4 p.m., Heredia. 654-4902; Playa Hermosa, Gte., John, 672-1163, or 9, 257-0441. 15, Babylon, Tamarindo; Feb. 17, Lizard Leslie, 672-1157; Manuel Antonio, Jennifer, 777- Little Theatre Group, 355-1623, www.littletheatre- Lounge, Playas del Coco; Feb. 18, Monteverde San Pedro Christian Fellowship, 267-6038, 1548; Jacó, Nancy, 637-8824; Zoo Group, Escazú, group.org. Amphitheater, Monteverde; Feb. 20, El Obser- 235-6052. 293-4322, Victor, 840-9312, info, 249-2886, Monika, Michigan State University Alumni International 831-7305. vatorio, Barrio La California; Feb. 24, Rippers, St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Chapel, 239- Costa Rica Chapter, Michael Forbes, 289-6087, Playa Hermosa, Puntarenas; Feb. 25, afternoon Al-Anon Meetings, Sabana Vigilance Club, Sandy, [email protected]. 0033, mass, Sun., 4 p.m., Herradura Hotel, 288-4836, or Martha, 483-1275, 840-4658 (Spanish). show, Roca Verde, Dominical, 863-0395. Ciudad Cariari, Heredia. Narcotics Anonymous, 256-8140, 248-0545. American Legion Post 10, Escazú, 228-6014. *Andrés Saborío in Concert: Trova, Feb. 16, 7 Network of Spiritual Progressives, 446-5768 The Well Worship Service Tamarindo, 653- American Legion Post 16, Heredia, 889-0545, 591- (Atenas). p.m., Spanish Cultural Center. 1864, 868-0871, www.tamarindochurch.com. 1695, 259-8928. Newcomers Club (for women), 416-6165, 302-5620, *Valentine’s Concert: By Rabito and George Union Church, 235-6709, Moravia. Association for Animal Protection, 255-3757, Diana, [email protected]. Hernández, Feb. 17, 6 p.m., Villa Olímpica 228-2397, 267-7158. Unity Center, 203-4411, Piedades, Santa Ana. Overeaters Anonymous, Roger, 232-0001, ext. 3001, gymnasium, Desamparados, 221-6520, 223- Association of Residents of Costa Rica, 233-8068, Cinthia 254-9001, [email protected]. 2913. Vineyard Christian Fellowship, 289-6782, [email protected]. *Peace Army of Costa Rica, 282-6576 (bilingual). *Swing en 4 in Concert: Ballads, Feb. 17, 8 291-4383, La Sabana. Badminton Association, 381-8284, 250-6537. Quilt Guild of Costa Rica, meets first Tuesday of p.m., INBioparque, Santo Domingo, Heredia, Birding Club, [email protected]. month, 6:30 p.m., Catholic Church, San Pedro, 278-4004. Bridge, John Goold, 229-1839, Montes de Oca, 225-9534. [email protected], www.arnbcr.org. Ricky Martin in Concert: Feb. 19, 8 p.m., Theater Readers Theater Club, 207-7578. Ricardo Saprissa Stadium, Tibás, tickets on Bridge Clubs: La Amistad, Sun., 3 p.m., Ian McLen- Readers Theater (script reading), Wednesday after- (All plays in Spanish unless otherwise noted.) nan, 835-0575; Club Los Fiebres, Tue. evenings, noons, [email protected]. sale at Megasuper, www.specialticket.net, Sidney Ferencz, 288-0698; Quepos Bridge Club, Don Republicans Abroad Costa Rica, Frances Radics, 206-7770. Hanks, 777-5002; San José Bridge Club, Mon., 1:30 203-6131, 820-1231. “Cabaret”: Musical, Thurs.-Sun., 8 p.m., p.m., Amalia Melter, 296-7569; Tres sin Triunfo, Wed., Música en las Gradas: Sasha Campbell, Feb. Lucho Barahona Theater, Ca. 11, Av. 6/8, 223- Rotary Clubs, 255-1001 (English). 24, 3 p.m.; Escats, March 3, 11 a.m.; Choco- 7:30 p.m., Fri., 1:30 p.m., Sat., 2 p.m. (teams), John 5972. MacGregor, 231-1097. Tambor Gringos and Important Friends, Ann Leo- late, March 17, 11 a.m., all at Gold Museum nard Coyle, [email protected], 683-0686. amphitheater, underneath Plaza de la Cultura. “Chingos o Nada”: Comedy, Thurs.-Sun., 8 Canadian Club, 282-1146, www.canadianclubcr.com. p.m., Molière Theater, Av. 2, Ca. 13, 255-2694. Center of the Enlighted Mind Circle of Meditation Tibetan-Costa Rican Cultural Association, 258-0254, Camerata Académica Bach Summer Con- fax 255-2783. “Dos Arriba y Una Abajo”: Comedy, Thurs.- and Movement, Alajuela, 443-6460. certs: Feb. 25, Handel, Haydn, Bach, Central Valley Golf Association, plays every Tuesday, Truth Behind the News Discussion Club, Mondays, Andriessen; March 11, Sammartini, Mozart, Sun., 8 p.m., Arlequín, Ca. 15, Av. 2, 221- 10 a.m., Lofa Plaza, 2nd floor, Don Getzman, 241- 5485. David, 254-0140, 392-8595, www.TheCVGA.com. Vivaldi; March 25, Pachelbel, Handel, Neruda, Coffee-Pickin’ Squares Dance Club, 249-1208. 3493. Barber, all at 6 p.m., INBioparque, Santo “Orgasmos”: Comedy, Thurs.-Sun., 8 p.m., Computer Club, Bill Lawrence, 228-0190. Ultimate Frisbee, 337-5249, 391-6980, 825-8967. Teatro Torres, Av. 8, Ca. 11/13, 258-6078. Domingo, Heredia, 507-8132, 507-8107. Costa Rica Gardening Club, Mariel, 203-4964. Union Church Women’s Fellowship, 235-6709. “Apartamento de Soltero”: Comedy, Fri.-Sun., Democrats Abroad, meets the last Saturday of every Unity Center, 203-4411, Piedades, Santa Ana. 8 p.m., La Máscara Theater, Av. 2/4, Ca. 13, month, Ruth Dixon, 494-6260. University of Tennessee Association, 446-5403. Religious Services 222-4574, 365-5368. Emergency Help for People Robbed in Costa Rica, V.F.W. Post 11207, San José, 255-2806, 231-2948. “Chico Loco”: Comedy, Fri.-Sun., 8 p.m., Calle 289-7486 (24 hours). Wine Club, meets for lunch the last Sunday of every (Call for days, times, directions.) 15 Theater, Av. 2, Ca. 15, in front of Plaza de la Feed Single Mothers Mission, 374-8849, month, 1 p.m., 279-8927. Democracia, 390-1780. www.feedsinglemothers.org. Women’s Aglow Fellowship, 231-2350. Anglican Episcopal Church, 222-1560, English Flag Football, Thursdays, 10 a.m., La Sabana Park, “El Efímero Secreto de las Estrellas”: Drama, Women’s Auxiliary of the Salvation Army, 221-8266. mass, Sun., 8:30 a.m., north of Colegio de 373-8720, www.flagmag.com. Women’s Club of Costa Rica, 268-6130, 282-6801, Señoritas, San José. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m., Teatro San José, Av. 8, Ca. Friends of Ansche Chesed (NY) and Beyt Tikkun 13, 256-5752. www.wccr.org. Bahá’i Faith Firesides, 249-1231 (McKinney (CA), Atenas, 446-5768. Women’s International League for Peace and family, English or Spanish), Central Valley. “La Tertulia de los Espantos”: Based on tradi- Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship Internation- Freedom, English/Spanish, Heredia, 433-7078. tional Costa Rican tales, Fri.-Sun., 8 p.m., al, 245-4592. Young Life Youth Club, 232-2350. Beach Community Church, 654-4446, Country through Feb. 18, Alajuela Municipal Theater, Hash House Harriers, Millard Farmer, 282-6010. Day School, Brasilito, Guanacaste. Young Expats of Costa Rica (for expatriates under northwest side of Juan Santamaría Park, 436- Health Club, Dianne Rowley, 266-0123, d@dear 40), www.youngexpatsofcostarica.org. Beit Tikvah Egalitarian Minyan, 301-3867, 2362. betty.com, Escazú. W16 | WEEKEND | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS Crazy Little Thing Called Love: LTG Celebrates Valentine’s with ‘Strawberries in January’

By David King a topnotch English my own movie-like, fantasy scenarios that morning disc jockey “Dr. Ron” Boston is Special to The Tico Times translation by Tor- involve people who surround me, but never beginning to savor his role. onto-based Morwyn going to François’ extremes of lying.” “I play a pretentious college professor – I fter acting as guest director on the Brebner, this romantic Hope’s character, in love with his obses- wonder if I was typecast?” Boston jokes. Little Theatre Group’s (LTG) “The comedy is not your sive-compulsive ex-girlfriend and roommate “Actually, this is a challenging role for me. AGood Body” in 2005, I couldn’t help usual “rom-com” fare. Sophie (who’s always dreaming of finding In real life, my character and I probably but return to work with this little theater Featuring four Mon- the right Valentino-esque “package”), wouldn’t get along well.” group in the western San José suburb of Bello treal singletons in decides to test out Hollywood romance by Ah, the things we do for love. Horizonte de Escazú. As a minority Anglo- pursuit of love, happi- setting up Sophie with French literature pro- phone in Canada’s francophone province of ness and fulfillment, fessor Robert (played by Ron Boston), a reg- Writer and director David King holds an honors Quebec, this intercultural experience is par- the play tosses around ular at his café. As Sophie, Chiquita Brands BFA in performance from Montreal’s Concordia ticularly enriching, considering that LTG is all the crazy, mixed- executive Sheila Morrison admits to her own University, where he co-founded the bilingual, Central America’s oldest English-language David King up lies we tell for love, idiosyncrasies. project-based company OUT Productions in theater company, with a vibrant group of even when it’s right “I actually thought I was pretty neurotic 1997. Recent credits include “The Graduate” passionate members from all walks of life. under our noses. until I met my character Sophie,” Morrison (assistant to Miles Potter, Grand Theatre, Lon- With support from LTG and the Quebec Montreal café owner and budding screen- laughs, “so I’m feeling pretty good about don, Ontario), “Story of My Life” (assistant to City-based Office Québec-Amériques pour la writer François (played by Theodore Hope) myself these days. Sophie’s desperate pursuit Michael Bush, Canadian Stage Co., Toronto), jeunesse, which provides entrepreneurial and imagines, much like the playwright herself, of the perfect man is actually hard for me to “Hysteria,” “Crave,” “Pterodactyls” and “Jocas- cultural exchanges for Quebecois youth what life would be like if we were all living in understand, as I was one of those lucky ones, ta” (University of Alberta, Edmonton), and throughout the Americas, my visit provides a movie, where we can all call “Cut!” and who, at 28, really wasn’t looking for love, “Regeneration” (Theatre Network, Edmonton). the opportunity to present a Quebec play, start over again if things aren’t working out. when my future husband walked in the door teach workshops and discuss contemporary Hope, a computer scientist, co-founder of and I just knew.” More Info “Canuck” theater with Costa Ricans. San José’s InterNexo and a teacher at the Throw in the zany innkeeper and Sophie’s Evelyne de la Chenelière’s “Strawberries in Technology Institute of Costa Rica in childhood friend Léa (played by the delight- “Strawberries in January” is set to run Feb. 23 January” (“Des fraises en janvier”) is a great Cartago, east of the capital, says he is having ful Sally O’Boyle), and the fine line is quick- through March 11 at the Blanche Brown Theatre in example of Canadian theater’s blend of fun in his challenging and goofy role as the ly drawn between truth and lies, fantasy and Bello Horizonte de Escazú. For tickets, information or North American realism and Quebec’s more daydreamer François. fact, and reality and fiction. As the professor directions to the theater, call 355-1623 or visit European, physical and imagistic styles. With “Like François,” Hope muses, “I imagine with secrets of his own, former Radio Dos www.littletheatregroup.org.

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German Delegation Visits Caribbean Telecom Giant To Check Out Tourism Wants in on Tico Market NEW GLOBAL Museums, beaches, coffee plantations The head of the Caribbean telecom and volcanoes are among attractions a giant Digicel told the daily La República it group of seven representatives from the is interested in entering the Costa Rican FINANCIAL COMPANY German government’s Tourism telecom market if the market is opened to Commission visited during a whirlwind private competition. tour of Costa Rica this week. The company, which operates in 22 The delegation was invited here by countries, has lately set its sights on Central Requires 10 motivated and energetic Legislative Assembly president Francisco America, where it has entered the Antonio Pacheco and Tourism Minister Salvadoran and Guatemalan markets, and telephone sales people Carlos Benavides in order for the two coun- put its foot in the door in Panama and tries to share information about their Nicaragua. The company is the fastest- with well spoken native English tourism industries and “further extend the growing mobile telecom operator in the ties of friendship.” Caribbean, already claiming 62% of that for immediate employment in our The tour included a meeting Monday market after just six years. It has invested with Foreign Minister Bruno Stagno, some $1.5 billion in that region, and Costa Rican division. Pacheco and representatives from the Costa employs more than 3,000 workers, accord- Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) and Science ing to Digicel’s Web site. and Technology Ministry (MICIT). The Spanish company Telefónica and Wednesday, they met with President the Mexican giant Telmex, owned by mag- BIG EARNING POTENTIAL Oscar Arias, and yesterday with Benavides nate Carlos Slim (the richest man in Latin and William Rodríguez, vice-president of the America and third richest in the world, National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR), according to Forbes), have already regis- completing a tour of the country’s most im- tered their brands with Costa Rica’s We offer a base salary, above-average portant officials and destinations. National Registry in anticipation of a possi- According to a statement from Casa ble market opening (TT, Feb. 3, 2006) commissions and excellent bonuses. Presidencial, the tour was a resounding suc- Under the Central American Free-Trade cess, ending with a commitment from the Agreement with the United States (CAFTA), delegation to seek an increase in the num- Costa Rica is required to open its state-run ber of flights arriving in Costa Rica from telecom monopoly to private competition. Only top closers and want-to-be Germany. Digicel group is based in Bermuda but Annette Frasse of the delegation affirmed Irish magnate Denis O’Brien, one of the rich- there are now only two flights per week from est men in Ireland, is the company’s majority top closers need apply. Germany – even during their bitter cold win- shareholder. In September 2006, O’Brien ter months – a number she feels is far too low took up an address in Malta, a Mediterranean The best will be trained to really encourage tourism. island that charges no tax on assets or income “About 40,000 Germans visit Costa Rica brought into the jurisdiction. The Irish Times for available positions. annually on vacation, but the potential is reported that O’Brien made the move as there for many more, if better opportunities Digicel planned to float his company on the existed,” she said. New York Stock Exchange. –Tico Times –Blake Schmidt Contact: Mr. Silvers at 362-5300 8365

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Page 12 Gilberto Jérez, a Guanacaste native who founded and owns the electricity business The minister called CAFTA a “more Meeting the Monting, declared his conflict. solid” agreement. Opposition: “Because of the activities of my business, Indigenous there could be a conflict of interest in my Indigenous Appeal participation in the commission,” he said in leader Timoteo a Jan. 25 letter announcing his departure A group of about 40 indigenous Costa Jackson, left, from the commission. Ricans this week demanded that the nation’s shakes hands Libertarian Movement party leader 24 indigenous territories be included in the with the Evita Arguedas is a partner in the telecom CAFTA debate. law consulting group Comunica M y T, and “I feel abused. Stop mistreating indige- president of her husband is a company chairman. She nous people. Stop robbing them,” said the Legislative didn’t step down from the commission, Timoteo Jackson, leader of a group of organ- Assembly, however, drawing fire from opponents. ic banana producers in the southern Ca- Francisco “There is a clear conflict between her ribbean zone of Bribrí, at a press conference duty as a representative and her particular at the Legislative Assembly Tuesday. Pachecho. interest,” PAC legislator Alberto Salom said Jackson and others, who traveled from the in a statement. far southeast corner of Costa Rica to appear at Arguedas told the daily La Nación there the assembly, asked why the indigenous com- Mónica Quesada | Tico Times is no conflict and that she wants to con- munities of Costa Rica haven’t been consult- tribute her experience in telecom to the ed in what they say is a mandatory consulta- the consultation law should apply to CAFTA munities express themselves.” He made it debate. Salom is trying to “shut her up,”the tion under Costa Rican law. (TT, Sept. 1, 2006), the assembly’s technical clear that he is in favor of the trade pact, pro-CAFTA legislator alleged. Benjamín Mayorga, of the Friends of services department recommended the con- however. She also pointed to the fact that PAC Talamanca Association, said CAFTA could sultation tour in June of last year. He promised to review the group’s docu- legislator Leda Zamora is an ICE official and threaten the nation’s food security and “We want you to take into account what mented anti-CAFTA positions before he small farmers, many whom are indige- is on the special commission dedicated to we’ve brought to light,” Mayorga said before scurried off to the assembly. modernizing that agency. nous; could threaten access to medicine requesting that the Constitutional Chamber “We’re in session and I have to do my “I don’t see it as a conflict of interest … for indigenous communities; and could of the Supreme Court (Sala IV) side with job,” he said. mean national resources that these com- indigenous communities. I haven’t benefited from anything up to munities use such as water, forest and Broad Front legislator José Merino said Clash over Telecom Interests now,” Zamora, an ICE administrator of 14 minerals could fall into hands of multina- there are more than enough votes in the years, told The Tico Times. She is current- tional companies who will be given more anti-CAFTA bloc to request the Sala IV Though two legislators named on the ly on leave without pay. Zamora said she incentives to exploit those resources under review the constitutionality of not con- special commission to discuss reforms to the plans to vote on the telecom and ICE the agreement. ducting nationwide indigenous consulta- telecom sector and the state-run Costa Rican reforms. The consultation tours are required for tion for CAFTA. Electricity Institute (ICE) have possible con- Costa Rican corruption law calls for one legislation that would affect indigenous Assembly president Francisco Pacheco flicts of interests, only one has stepped down to eight years of prison for public officials communities. Though there are differences then briefly shook hands with Jackson, from the commission. who vote favorably on legislation that bene- of opinion in the assembly about whether saying “I’m happy to see indigenous com- National Liberation Party legislator fits them personally.

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8 8039 16 | OPINION | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

Editorial Drowning in Waste – Same Old Story ith steaming stacks of refuse on street corners around the country A special trash commission is looking into the municipal waste problem. and overflowing landfills leaking nasty chemical soup into under- A special inter-institutional team has begun looking into the chemical waste Wground aquifers, it is safe to say Costa Rica has a problem with its and safety issue. waste. But we’ve heard this before. With each administration come new plans, You could even call it a state of emergency. But wait, someone already did, commissions and task forces to come up with new Band-Aid solutions. more than 20 years ago: the Costa Rican government. It’s time to try something new. The government needs to unite these Two decades have come and gone, and the situation has gotten only worse. motley efforts and raise the profile of the trash problem once and for all by The waste problem isn’t limited to garbage produced by households and putting one person, with one team, in charge. In a government that left to rot on their doorstep because the funds both a Planning Ministry and an Inter- municipalities don’t send trucks to pick it up; Institutional Coordination Minister, there is or the garbage tossed out car windows, littered obviously space for a high-level team to tack- along hiking trails, dumped over hillsides or Two decades have come and gone, le a problem of this magnitude, ending thrown into lakes, rivers and oceans. Costa decades of having the responsibility scattered Rica must take a hard look at how it is dealing and the situation has gotten only worse. throughout the middle reaches of the Health with its industrial, chemical, medical and other and Environment ministries and the coun- hazardous waste. try’s 81 underfunded municipalities. The government has always left the dispos- We’re not advocating a new Trash al of chemical and industrial waste up to the companies that produce it – Ministry, and the red tape and bureaucracy it would likely generate. which makes sense. You make it, you deal with it. These companies, though, Still, a high-level task force dedicated to the problem could work with can’t just be taken at their word that they are disposing of their hazardous municipalities, employ specialists to examine public and private waste-man- waste in a proper way. Unfortunately, this is exactly what Costa Rica’s lax agement proposals, especially for chemical and medical waste, find funds to monitoring of the industry has meant. attack the problem and watch for and investigate corruption. Then there’s medical waste, which, save some very few exceptions, gets dis- This dedicated team could also spearhead nationwide efforts to educate posed of along with the regular trash. Just ask the buzos who make their liv- and inspire inhabitants to reduce, reuse and recycle their waste. In the recipe ing picking through landfills how often they come across syringes and bags of to improve Costa Rica’s waste problem, a vigilant and concerned populace who-knows-what marked with hospital logos. must complement government efforts.

Send your Letters by e-mail ([email protected]), regular mail or fax (see Page 2). Please don’t Letters forget to sign your name and include your return address and phone number. Thank you.

Founded in 1956 by Elisabeth Dyer Herbal Supplements May Be You see, the drug companies have the Petty Crime Rising along Publisher 1972-1996 Richard Dyer patents on all statin drugs – even the natu- Regulated Under CAFTA rally occurring ones! Fortunately, the With Poverty, Homelessness 1981 IAPA - Pedro G. Beltrán Award for distinguished Cholestin manufacturer appealed and the service to the community Dear Tico Times: FDA lost. Dear Tico Times: 1985 Special Citation Maria Moors Cabot Awards Even so, my (and your) freedom of 1990 National Conservation Prize choice in this matter apparently is going to 1995 IAPA Grand Prize for Press Freedom Several months ago I wrote of my While I agree with Michael Cook that experiment to reduce my cholesterol num- be taken out of our hands by “big pharma.” tourists usually contribute to their crime 1998 Salvation Army Others Award In a two-pronged attack to annihilate the National Tourism Chamber Media Award bers by using a Chinese medicinal herb, red problems (TT, Jan. 19), that doesn’t mean yeast rice extract (Monascus purpureus), competition, they are the force behind the that petty crime has not become a serious international Codex Alimentarius, and they In memoriam - Linda Frazier (1945-1984) instead of the prescribed Crestor. At that problem. are buying up all the formulae for produc- Vol. LI N.1907 time I reported on how one trial had pro- I have been visiting Costa Rica since duced a drop of 104 (total) and 94 (LDL) ing generic versions of pharmaceutical 1972. That has included at least one trip points. (TT, Oct. 13, 2006). drugs. This latter issue is currently before Publisher Dery Dyer Advertising (sometimes two) a year since 1993. In 2006, Being of an open-minded but skeptical the U.S. Congress. I made three trips to Pacific beaches to do Editor Auriana Koutnik Ivonne Morúa (Manager), Rod The most important item I have seen on General Manager Abby Daniell Hughes, Jeannette Campos, Marta nature I thought that this, while very prom- some surfing. (I haven’t visited Guanacaste this topic in many years is to be found at Weekend Editor Meg Yamamoto Gamboa, Silvia Hernández, Mary ising, was not conclusive: so I followed on since 1989, though, because the develop- this Web site: www.herballure.com/Special/ Online Editor Amanda Roberson Rohaman, Ricardo Rojas, Mauricio with a second trial. After not taking the ment there depresses me.) Vanegas, Cindy Vargas WeBecomeSilent. herb for a further three months, I had a The one significant crime problem I’ve Staff & Contributors It is a 29-minute video narrated by Judy lipid profile test done Nov. 13 which experienced was definitely a result of foolish- Ann Antkiw, Leland Baxter-Neal, Circulation Dench about the well-advanced plot by “big Ed Bernhardt, Paul Brohaugh, Diego Herrera (Manager), Gerardo showed that my total had increased by 71 ness. A couple years ago I let a friend talk me Mary Chalker (Exploring Costa Arias (Reaching Out), Alonso points and my LDL by 67 points. OK then, pharma” to eradicate our free choice to buy herbs, vitamins and minerals. In the guise into accompanying him to Costa Rica to visit Rica Guide), Sonia Cordero Bustos, Cesar García, Andrey León, so this is the state of my cholesterol without a family in Turrialba that was going to host (Calendar), María Gabriela Díaz, Clara León, Lincon Pastenes of protecting us against ourselves (nitwits any interference – not good! his daughter as an exchange student. When Arcadio Esquivel, Kate Galante, So, back on the red yeast rice extract that we are) the Codex Alimentarius is David Garrett, Ellen Zoe Golden, we arrived there I noticed a pay phone near a Finance for another couple of months and then preparing to declare the competition illegal. Sophia Kelley, Susan Hall Liang, Olman Chacón, Ana Arguedas, bakery and found a parking spot a little way Gaby Kyriss, Shawn Larkin, Vicky another test Jan. 15. This time my total was Lest readers think that Codex, a United Rigoberto León down the street. As I walked back to the pay Longland, Dorothy MacKinnon, down by 81 points to 197 and my LDL was Nations program created to develop inter- Ana Luisa Monge, Jack O’Brien, phone to call for directions I asked my friend Production down 74 points to 132 – I should also add national food standards, will not affect Tyler Pearce, Tim Rogers to watch the car. I then went to the phone Mayra Sojo (Manager), that my triglycerides were also down 58 them, please note that the Adverse Event (The Nica Times), Jerry Ruhlow, and called the family. Roy Arguedas, Verny Quesada points to 103 and my HDL was up 4.5 Reporting (S. 3546) was passed Dec. 17, Blake Schmidt, David Sherwood, When I arrived back at the car, my Katherine Stanley, Mitzi Stark, 2006, and will categorize dietary supple- Customer Service points to 44.5. Jeffrey Van Fleet ‘Nuff said. Even if these numbers aren’t ments as drugs. In addition, Costa Rica has friend informed me that some guy opened Ana Lucía Espinoza, Annette the car door, but he didn’t think he took Benavides, Bernardino Madrigal, as good as what Crestor could do (and I’ll a representative and a committee on Codex Photography Flory Poveda, Luis Morales anything. Apparently my friend had gotten Mónica Quesada, Chelcey Adami never know that), they are good enough overseen by the Ministry of Economy, for me. For those who’d like to check my Industry and Commerce. out of the car and was standing on the side- walk during this incident. I was shocked by Systems research, they can see what the Mayo The Central American Free-Trade Edwin Cárdenas Clinic says about red yeast rice extract and Agreement with the United States (CAFTA), this. I thought it was obvious that when what www.worstpills.org has to say about as is well known, can overrule national laws watching the car you would prevent The Tico Times (USPS 002-579) is published every Friday Crestor. (in this case, to enforce the Codex regula- strangers from entering or at least sound for $61 per year by The Tico Times S.A., A couple of years ago, the U.S. Food and tions), and will tremendously affect the abili- the alarm if any attempted to do so. Avenida 8, Calle 15, Apartado 4632-1000, San José, Costa Rica. Drug Administration (FDA) attempted to ty of Costa Rica’s Social Security System Naturally the thief did take some things. Periodicals postage paid at St. Louis Offset, Despite my experiences, I definitely feel 1212 Dielman Industrial Court, St. Louis, MO 63132. have the product Cholestin, which contains (Caja) to provide medications at a price with- Postmaster – Send address changes to: red rice yeast extract, declared an unap- in its budget. Please, please, watch this video! less safe in Costa Rica than I did back in the The Tico Times-SJO 717, proved drug and removed from the market. 70s, because of the obvious increase in P.O. Box 025331, Miami FL 33102-5331. Their reasoning? That it too closely resem- Steve Friedman poverty and homelessness. Some may blame Copyright Convention: unauthorized reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. bles the pharmaceutical drug Lovastatin. Rio Oro de Santa Ana drugs. I think substance abuse is a symptom THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | OPINION | 17 of poverty and hopelessness. No doubt it forget his misery by becoming a drug addict contributes to the continuation of those with an expensive habit and probably kill ARCADIO when it is handled as a criminal rather than himself from an overdose and some inno- a public health issue. cents who get in his way. These issues are certainly not unique to Social programs can give limited sup- Costa Rica. Just visit any city in the United port but lack the means to supply the disci- States to see similar problems. On the other pline, knowledge and self-esteem lacking hand, if you visit Amsterdam, you will see among the poor. Victims must learn to help plenty of drug use but you do not see obvi- themselves. How? Most countries provide ous signs of poverty (at least not in the tou- an opportunity for those trying to escape risty central district). The Dutch provide poverty and willing to accept discipline by plenty of police patrols in that district too. joining the military. OK, we do not want Consequently I have felt secure during my that here. During the Great Depression in visits there. the United States the federal government conscripted the unemployed into the Ken Hayes Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Austin, Texas, USA Projects Administration camps where they were housed, fed, clothed and given medical attention. They worked on conservation, infrastructure and public works projects. In Work Study Camps the process, many learned discipline, self esteem, social interaction, team work, Can End Poverty and respect for authority – some even learned a trade that they pursued all Dear Tico Times: through life with dignity. We can certainly use that kind of work Costa Rica will not solve poverty by fol- in Costa Rica. Putting young people who lowing the old bureaucratic ways. should be in school to work on constructive First of all, unless we significantly projects will get them off the streets and reduce the number of children born teach them how to survive by doing an to unwed mothers in poverty – and unless honest day’s work while they learn a trade. the government stops rewarding such Such a program will not be costly. To the mothers for having six or more children by contrary, the country will save in many Security Ministry, nothing will happen. It Plans to Improve San José giving them free houses and allowances – ways. The specifics of a program “a lo Tico” will be talked to death. That is why there the vicious cycle of poverty can never be can be worked out. should be a Youth Ministry reporting Should Include Cleaner Air broken. The mindset of those in poverty – If all abandoned youngsters over 10 or directly to the President. Otherwise, more and those in anti-poverty programs – seems 12 who are not in school are sent to camps public funds will be wasted and no mean- Dear Tico Times: to be that the worse their plight, the more to work and study, many will find a way to ingful decrease in poverty will occur. government services they should receive. stay in school. Those in camps will learn I first went to Costa Rica in 1984. Costa Rica is facing a time bomb from much more than those in public schools Henry Markant Between then and 1991 I went each summer the number of school dropouts, a prelude where they are exposed to overworked and San Antonio de Belén to study Spanish and do research. to more poverty. With no education and no indifferent teachers and where they lack I love Costa Rica and would like to go beginner’s job opportunities, a young man parental support and suitable places to Editor’s note: Thanks for sharing your ideas. back but I have been hesitant to return. The has few choices – that is, if he wants to eat. study. In camps, supervised study with Costa Rica does have a Ministry of Culture, reason is because of how much the air pollu- He can not join the army to learn a skill. He tutoring can provide effective total immer- Youth and Sports, but it focuses mainly on cul- tion increased in San José during those years. might be fortunate to find temporary sion learning. ture and sports events. The Child Welfare Office Since then, so far as I can tell from read- employment in farming or construction, or If the development of this program is (PANI) deals with youth issues, but does not ing developments in The Tico Times, the as a vendor of fruit at intersections. Or he left to cooperation between the Ministry have ministry ranking. Also, the country’s laws pollution has only gotten worse. can become a beggar, a thief, a kidnapper- of Public Education (MEP), the National prohibit work by those under age 15. I hope those working to revitalize San extortionist or a drug dealer. Or, he might Training Institute (INA) and the Public José (TT, Jan. 19) are including improved air quality in their plans. I would love to visit a San José with cleaner air once again.

GET ACTION K. Ann Stebbins Richmond, Kentucky, USA For a more detailed list of shipping the least expensive option available is $395. What’s the Best Way to requirements for Costa Rica, you might Aerocasillas (208-4848, www.aeropost. Lousy Service, Food at Send Items to Costa Rica? check with a shipping company representa- com) is one of several shipping companies tive, the U.S. Postal Service or Costa Rica’s that bring items to Costa Rica from its mail Restaurant Near Poás Customs Administration (www.hacienda. center in Miami, Florida (so the package I would like to get information about go.cr, click on Dirección General de Adua- would have to be sent there first). Carvajal Dear Tico Times: sending items such as clothing, etc. to nas, 233, 6797, 440-0275). quoted $104 for the 25-pound package. Costa Rica from California, hopefully the Roberto Carvajal, a representative of Jet Box (281-3208, www.jetbox.com), This letter is meant to be helpful for anyone best, least expensive way. courier company Aerocasillas, told The which also ships packages from Miami, who travels on the camino to Poás Volcano. Gretel Gonzales Tico Times that to import used clothing has two types of shipping contracts: one A restaurant to avoid, unless you like Whittier, California, USA waiting an hour plus to receive inedible into Costa Rica, the clothing must be fumi- where you pay a monthly fee (minimum food at more than double the cost, is Casa gated in the United States and a certificate of $15) for discounted shipping, or where Bavaria, just north of Carrizal de Alajuela. All packages sent here must include a of the fumigation must be included in the you pay per shipment. To send without This large, beautiful facility has lousy list of items and their value. In addition, all package. The package will be inspected by the monthly contract, the price would be service, inedible food and is overpriced. If goods brought into Costa Rica are subject Customs here and possibly re-fumigated if $129, and with the monthly payments, it this letter prevents one person from making to import taxes and Customs handling agents decide to do so, he explained. would be $103. the mistake I made when I went there with charges, which can make shipping to Costa (Clothing brought in luggage on commer- Aeromarine (442-7200, www.aeroma my family, it will have been worth writing. Rica somewhat complicated. cial flights, however, does not face any of rine.net) quoted the cheapest price, with However, every person in Costa Rica these requirements.) a special rate of $32.32, plus taxes. Bill Comer (whether tourist, citizen or foreign resi- The Tico Times asked around with sev- According to spokesman Marlin Brenes, if San Isidro de Heredia dent) is entitled to a tax-free shipment of eral shipping companies to compare the the package doesn’t qualify for the tax up to $500 (including shipping, insurance cost of sending a package weighing 25 exoneration, clothing is taxed at 30% of Editor’s note: The Tico Times contacted Casa and handling fees) every six months. its value – declared by the sender before pounds and measuring 40 inches long by Bavaria owner Barbara Schwagereit, who said When sending items from the United shipping and included with the list of 20 inches wide by 10 inches tall. she doesn’t recall anyone making such com- States to Costa Rica, it should be noted that items. Shipping this hypothetical package plaints at the restaurant. She said Casa some things, such as fertilizers, food and from the United States to Costa Rica with medicine, are among a list of restricted Bavaria serves more than 30,000 guests annu- the U.S. Postal Service, for example, runs As a service to Tico Times readers, “Get ally and to her knowledge, no one has ever items. The above items, for example, must from $55 (Economy Parcel Post, 4-6 weeks) Action” will answer questions, solve prob- be approved by Costa Rica’s Public Health complained of food being inedible. As far as to $507 (Global Express Guaranteed Non- lems, bridge language gaps and just gener- wait times, she said the restaurant strives to Ministry (www.ministerio desalud.go.cr, Document Service, 1-3 days). For more ally help wherever it can. Please send your 223-0333) before they will be allowed to ensure hors d’oeuvres are served in 20 minutes information, see the U.S. Postal Service’s queries to “Get Action” at The Tico Times maximum and entrees in 30 minutes max. She enter the country. Some shipping compa- Web site, www.usps.com. by mail, fax or e-mail. We can’t promise added that if complaints are made in the nies will obtain the permits for you. To ship it with FedEx (www.fedex. com), miracles, but we’ll do the best we can. restaurant, she and the rest of the staff try to resolve them immediately. 18 | CLASSIFIEDS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

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Buying and selling is easy and effective with a classified ad in The Tico Times. Fax it (country code 506) 233-6378, by mail to The Tico Times, Apdo. 4632-1000, San José, Costa Rica (U.S. residents send orders to SJO 717, P.O. Box 025331, Miami, FL 33102-5331) or by phone to (country code 506) 258-1558. Visit us online www.ticotimes.net and fill out the classified order form or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Rates for the print-edition classifieds are as follows: Minimum 3 lines, Minimum 2 weeks. US $2.63 per line including letters, punctuation and spaces. For symbols (star, arrow, check mark) or graphics, contact the Classified Department. For yellow shading add an additional 40% charge. Finally, add 13% advertising tax to the total of the ad. We accept VISA, MASTERCARD and AMEX or make checks payable to The Tico Times. Payment must be made in U.S. dollars. Do not send cash.

100 Animals GOLDEN Retriver puppies 6 CHEF WANTED for NEW GLOBAL NATIVE SPEAKING 100 ANIMALS wks. Pedigree, spayed & 10 year old established beach lodge. 200 Employment Sun Sat TV FINANCIAL 201 Jobs Offered 101 Animals dewormed. $300/ $250. 241- US company. Peninsula de Osa, Matapalo. ENGLISH 202 Jobs Wanted HD Satellite TV 0574/ 385-8804/ 888-9411/ Opening encantalavida.com 376-3209. COMPANY 300 Health Services Costa Rica/Panama 379-0609. TEACHERS AHPPA’s animal shelter has office in 400 Investments Major US Channels Are you a Requires 10 motivat- love on 4 legs waiting for CONTROLLER: NLY RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK & Costa Rica. CPA from the U.S. accus- ed and energetic O 401 Business For Sale you. 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Beautiful work environ- ¥ Training + Perks AHPPA, Apartado 73-3000 2.4 m Dish Costa Rican division. 700 Miscellaneous plus USD ment, attractive remuneration ¥ Free Spanish 701 Collectors Heredia, Costa Rica or $1,000 Sign-on Bonus for package for right candidate. deposit in Banco Nacional de Reiny 506-249-0506 per year Send resume in confidence BIG EARNING Classes 702 Furniture/Housewares experienced phone closers. ¥ Teacher Support 703 Miscellaneous C.R. acc. AHPPA, No. 040- Cathy 506-282-9097 Perfect English required. $5000.00 to [email protected] or POTENTIAL 431-9. Tel. 267-7158, San Only the best need apply. bonus. call Art in Costa Rica during ¥ Voted best place 704 Memberships [email protected] the day at + (506) 379-6862 We offer a base to teach 800 Music Rafael de Heredia. You can Call 296-8306 Perfect help us save lives! www. “We service what salary, above average Call: 234-1001 801 Music animalsheltercostarica.com English commissions and 900 Personal we sell’’ ADMIN ASST. to provide only!!! ESCAZU steal 3 bdr, 3.5 www. full admin support for the baths, 2906 sqft exquisite excellent bonuses. ingles-empresarial. 901 Men Seeking Women www.sunsattv.com Costa Rican subsidiary of a Only the best views, nice area. Priced to 902 Women Seeking Men MASTIFF ENG. pups & Only Top Closers com adults. Burmese, Bengal cats, US software solutions co. need to apply sell $214,000. Call 267-6360 903 Personal Exc. English skills required, or 816-9898 and want-to-be Andalusian/ Peruvian Paso e-mail your Top Closers need 1000 Real Estate Horses 416-3333 LABRADOR, female, yellow, Span. is a+ Min of 2 yrs For Rent 2 yrs old, w/pedigree, Excel, Word & outlook in a contact Apply. WANTED Northamerican spayed, neutered & similar environment. Send SALES PROS teacher to work fridays & Sat. 1001 Apartments info to The best will be in Guanacaste 686-8200 DOGGI DIVINO dewormed. 845-6704. resume to: jobs@ trained for available 1002 Comm. Property searchtechnologies.com WANTED! 301-8251 1003 Condominiums Grooming Salon has transcontinental positions. the FURMINATOR to holdings@gmail. 1004 Exchange deshed your dog! MALE, mix, short hair. 2yr ART DIRECTOR. CR’s most Contact: Mr. Silvers 202 Jobs Wanted neutered, vacc., dewormed. com 1005 Houses Call 289-2162 WOOF! prestigious tourism may seek PROFESSIONAL TELEMARKETING EXPERIENCE at 362-5300 1006 Rooms 225-3379/ 253-1529. graphic designer. In design- ing, photoshop, Ilustrator, 55 YR OLD Canadian now 1007 Timeshares living in Costa Rica looking 1100 Real Estate Nato sez: MIX male puppy 2mo. Black bilingual a must. CV to: BILINGUAL hotel manager, JET SKY mechanic needed adopt an orphan [email protected] experience & reference. 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Visit us @ HELICOPTER Pilot 4000+ need to spayed, fenced yard. 233-0779 SE NECESITAN mujeres hrs in CR. FAA+CR lic. gow- 1207 Public Notice Requirements: www.vacations 416-3333. [email protected] or para guia turista, excelente [email protected] 1208 Religious • Some formal business BIODIESEL, I’ve a working costarica.com 1209 Repair deposit your donation education. factory in Nicaragua will salario, viaje, vacaciones BEAUTIFUL kitty, white, #904095700 duplicate in C.R greater than pagadas. Comp. Americana. 1210 Storage 5mo, spayed, free for loving Banco de San José. • Previous experience in MERCEDES 4X4 w/ Eng. 1211 Legal Services management. 100% return on investment ESL-certified native English Ingles preferible. E-mail: speaking driver available to home. 817-3118. Please give us the chance per year. speaking teachers w/2 yrs. 1212 Telecommunications to work for the welfare of • Prior work in tourism paradisefantasytours@yahoo. take you anywhere in C.R. sector. [email protected] experience preferred. Classes Fully lic. armed driver avail- 1300 Tourism animals. start ASAP! Whittemore de com. Envie su numero para • Goal oriented and self entrevista. Feb 11-21 able upon request. 1301 Accommodations DOBERMAN, male, black, 2 motivated. CERTIFIED Native English Costa Rica, S.A. 296-1248. 878-0202. Even on weekends 1302 Airfare • Excellent organization skills. speaking Teachers needed. [email protected] yrs. Need a good home. [email protected] 1303 Camping Tel: 359-9040. 103 For Sale • Leadership & motivational (506) 232-9710 SMALL 14 room hotel in 1304 Cruises skills. [email protected] Quepos seeks qualified can- 300 HEALTH We offer: didate. Exc. opportunity, 1305 Fishing FREE AMERICAN Pitbulls, cham- ESTABLISHED Tamarindo • High energy, fun work Real Estate agency seeks salary plus commission. SERVICES 1306 Guides pion bloodline, 2 males, in Rohrmoser is 1307 Tourism Info CLASSIFIEDS intelligent. 9mo. All shots. environment. bilingual experienced sales [email protected] 301 Health $150ea. Good home w/yard. • Opportunities to earn great looking to hire an agent & administrator. 1308 Tours FOUND a wallet? pay. elementary tea- Services No dogs similar in CR. Mon- eddie@hiddencoastrealty. r 1400 Transportation Need a home for • Incentives, bonuses and cher with experi- com VOLUNTEER Coordinato your kittens? Lost & Fri 290-1481. 1401 Airplane benefits. ence and proper work in Global Vision A PHYSICAL THERAPIST, 1402 Boats Found items and • Travel perks to top hotels in English for ele- International’s new giveaways can be HORSES 1/2 Spanish, 1/2 Home service. Profes. servic- 1500 Vehicles Costa Rica. mentary grades. EXPERIENCED freelance Costa Rica office helping to es in neuromuscular & bone advertised FREE in Arabians for work, pleasure For more info. graphic artist position for 1501 Autos & riding, and Trail riding. coordinate volunteers for our rehabilitation. Therapeutic Tico Times Classifieds. Visit: please call Chana t-shirt co. Located in Los 1502 4x4’s Just call us with your (506) 234-1253/361-6666. www.vacationscostarica.com projects world wide. Requires massages. at Angeles, CA. Candidate J. Huete 296-0552 1503 Miscellaneous message be-fore Fax: 224-6962. works from Costa Rica pro- good comm. & [email protected] For more info: 1504 Motorcycles Tuesday noon. E-mail: carolinaumana@ 290-4347 or ducing art concepts from administration skills. 1505 Rentals goduesouth.com fax 296-1225 our direction. Candidate Experience in volunteering or Need some cash? Another community Travel helpful. E-mail: 1600 Wanted service from For a few $ more, you must work in Adobe Sell it fast; with 1601 Wanted can reach thousands Send resume and e-mail Ilustrator. Please respond to [email protected] with resume THE TICO TIMES cover letter to apply [email protected] [email protected] and cover letter. the TT Classifieds 1602 Help Wanted of internet readers AMERICAN SCHOOL THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | CLASSIFIEDS | 19

HEREDIA week or month, 1- 837-3474 www.perfectodish.com 404 Business GOODLIGHT CUPIDO NEW 2 bdr. Internet, cable, tel, Dr-Dish Satellite TV or Internet ESCAZU CARIARI BOOKS APARTMENTS fully furn, hot water, gar. Opportunity HUNDREDS of Colombian avail. 263-5298, 386-1994 women, who would like to FOR RENT, SECURE APARTHOTEL MEDICAL More than mysteries. Best meet you, NEIGHBORHOOD CASA REFLEJOS BEACHFRONT-Hotel selection of non-fiction, www.colombiacupido.com 8 blocks from 9bdrs. HOTEL-STUDIO apts Completely furnished cookbooks, children’s, etc. A downtown, fully Escazu $10-$20-$30/night. CENTER 5km west of Samara, Playa clean, orderly, well-lit-place 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apts Buena Vista. 824-2822. equipped apts. & $200/300/ 400mo. h/w, for books. Open 7 days a I’M THE PERFECT girl for cable. 289-7486, 307-0164 Opening Soon week. 10 mins. from SJO you. Call me for serious kitchen, 1 or 2 Gym, Sauna & Jacuzzi Airport in Alajuela Centro. relationship. Tel. 871-9928 bedrms, cable TV, Heated pool Cariari, Belen BUILDER seeking invest- phone, ADSL inter- 100 N. & 300 W. of La LLORENTE RES. rent apart BBQ Area ment partner for const. proj- Agonia Church. net, from US$150 between AM/PM ects. 813-0942/269-8842 only 3 km from San Jose Tel. 430-4083 SEEKING man 50/70 very to $1,250. center. 1,2,&3 bdr, 24 hrs Fast Internet and Drugstore good manners f/ serious sec, pool, gym, ranch for Tropical gardens relationship. 350-4747. Ph (506) 372-4157 GAMING CO is converting 850 NICARAGUA parties. Furn or Unfurn. From Great city view to mobile and Internet enter- [email protected] $500 to $700. Tel. Close proximity to all tainment. New sites, the first 851 Nicaragua SINGLE GIRL looking for a Inf: 235-0471 / 384-7493 372-1962 of their kind are finished and perfect guy for serious rela- ESCAZU Country Club, shopping & services ready for marketing. Partner tionship. Tel. 871-9928 deluxe 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath, Ph. 288-3630 ext. 400 needed. TunesNetworks.com 44 YEAR male. 1.85cm tall LOURDES M. de Oca, fully goodlooking from US seeks spacious liv-din, maid’s serv, furn, nice, good area, safe, Cel. 388-2873 Ph. 282-4142 ext.106 2 car gar, splendid panor. atractive female from 24-36 YOUNG LADY seeks a good $500 mo. 224-7334 ACUPUNTURE for friendship & relationship view. $2100mo. Furn www.casareflejoscr.com professional gentleman, sin- /unfurn. 487-8098/378-8377 JACO BEACH Dicoteca/ Some English and US visa is Auriculotherapy No needles. gle, Catholic, between 30-38 MORAVIA, priv, secure, gar- Rest/bar on sale by owner. a +. I’ll be soon visiting yrs. Must speak Spanish. Immediate results for stress, dens, fully furn. $400, $350, SANTA ANA, Parque Located at Main Strip, all Send e-mail w/photo to: Good manners. Send recent ESCAZU fully furn, 3 bdr, 2 anxiety, depression, all pain, furn & equipment incl. Ready [email protected] cableTV, 349-1615 Montaña del Sol. Furnished, injury, migraine. 17 yrs. photo. bath, gar, $600. 232-9585 for new managment. [email protected] unfurnished, 24 hr. security, US Lic. Escazu 352-0661 USA 973-465-5227. 900 PERSONAL BIRDS! TREES! total privacy, telephone, ESCAZU Great condo, fur- cable, Internet, washer/dryer. 901 Men Seeking 903 Personal An oasis of green in All included. $975/mo. Cel. Cal-Lic’d Psychotherapy nished, big yard. LIQUOR Licenses for Buy, Tel: 832-5068 / 290-0236. Sabanilla, only 10 min. 827-6787, tel. 282-9489 Individual Couple Family Sale and Rent. 226-5889 Women from UCR. Completely 35 yrs Exp. Flexible Fees. www.patentesdelicores.com ASSISTANCE w/ anything. furnished one-bedroom Apartments, transportation, 281-0421 Ext 107 aft 11am 40 YEAR OLD Male from ESCAZU RED HOT apt. 2 apartments in an en- SANTA BARBARA 1/2 bdr California visits C.R often, translations, even finding a bdrm, tower furnished, pool, closed, safe compound. apts. phone, furn. cbl. ready VENTURE CAPITAL need- nice girlfriend, photos avail. to move in, $300 mo dep. DR. SHAHIN RAVERY seeks Tica 23-35 for friend- view, Tel. 885-3287 Direct phone, laundry, ed for CR dating/sailing Call Britney 506-362-4501 parking, gardens. Exce- 813-0942/269-8842 Chiropractor, full spine, ship, romance and long term personalassistance1@yahoo. adventures. $25K. relationship a little Eng. llent bus service. Cable knees, shoulder & ankle, com 1bdr. parking Tel. 305-9651. helpful send photo to ESCAZU, TV available. US owned adjustment & rehabilitation. costaricagringotours@ under roof, w/ or w/o furn. STA ANA, Urb. Rio Oro, 2 Tel 222-3152, 376-3779 [email protected] & operated. bdr, furn, pool, 2 pers. hotmail.com or write letter to Robert sec.. $450. 506-289-5482. ATTRACTIVE Tica Billing. www.balconesdeescazu.com $325/$425/$450/mo. German owner. 282-4126. Richardson PO BOX 443 selfemployed is looking for 273-3173 fawnskin CA 92333 HAIR WELLNESS Franchise for friendship w/cultured North LUXURY APARTMENTS 273-3837 american gentleman. 45-60 TEXAS BBQ, Baby back PIECES the New Millenium, Huge FROM $250 WK, $650 MONTH. 381-8971 opp. across CR, Latin Am & [email protected] One bedroom. Completely & attrac- ribs, BBQ chicken, Much 44 YEAR male. 1.85cm tall more? BBQ sauce in spicy or US. Call Randy 341-5619 in goodlooking from US seeks tively furnished with full kitchen, REPAIRS, tapes, mainte- CR, www.nutritionclubs.net microwave, cable TV, Tel, Internet regular. Take out or we deliv- attractive female from 24-36 COMPLETE HAIRCARE access, 24-hr. security. PALACIO Condo. San Jose er. Try it once and taste the nance, natural or synthetic for friendship & relationship Expert Massage. Across US New & luxurious. 2 bdr, 2 hair. Call Maria 256-4347 GUEST WELCOME difference. Dinners or Some English and US visa is Embassy. 291-3126 CENTRALLY LOCATED bath, fully furn, beautiful, full Parties. Questions: 405 Business Services a +. I’ll be soon visiting ultra electronics incl, reserve MASSAGE Therapist. Hotel COMPLETELY PRIVATE Call Jim 355-5243 Send e-mail w/photo to: www.hotels.co.cr/scotland.html parking, rancho & pool. & house calls. Non-sexual. [email protected] EUROPEAN-American www.totalcostarica.net or Elizabeth 290-2063, FINACIAL Advisors. Invest lady, retired multilingual, for- Tel.(506) 223-0033, 223-0833 [email protected] [email protected] or YOSES Apts fully furn near 383-1033 your money in mortgages & mer Peace Corps Volunteer in CR (506) 389-3945/ Mall, Internet, from $600. other options. 392-9315 AMERICANO pensionado in CR now living on the APARTMENTS 866-1088/ 290-5264. San Pedro main road fm [email protected] 56 años, viviendo ahora en Nicoyan Peninsula wishes NUTRITIONAL Spa in SCOTLAND USA (407) 804-0644 $350. 381-1336, 827-5451 CR, en Pozos de Santa Ana; contact w/educated wordly Ave 1 & Calle 27 Escazu wellness eval, fruit busca señorita, delgada para gentleman 60+ who shares smoothie more... 341-5619. Behind Cine Magaly 701 Collectors salir, cenar y viajar. Si tiene passion for local culture, 100 mts. east B. Escalante PASEO COLON studio, 1002 Commercial DREAM opportunity in niños esta bien, debe hablar flora and fauna, the sea. uti- semi-furn, indep., garden, Antiques algo de inglés. Envie nota Property SALA VILMA, Therapeutic Manuel Antonio, Bar/Rest. on [email protected] or Apto. only person with passport. the Beach, 100m from the con foto Apdo 128-6155 152- 5200. Nicoya, ESCAZU, Split-level $200. 222-3024/817-9371 Massage, Non sexual. Forum, Costa Rica o al C 30-32, Ave 6. 221-6192 entrance to National Park. ANTIQUE & antique Guanacaste. Penthouse, 2 bdr, 2 bath, Bo. DENT, S.J. for Call 777-2382. Michael. correo elect: balcony, sun room, spectac- reproduction furn. from India. [email protected] ROHMOSER. 2bdr. elegant. Center 11 comp.net, AC, [email protected] Clothes, bedspreads, ular panoramic views of security 24/7, $1,500/m. SECRET GARDEN HAIR CUT, home service, furn. tel, cable, garage, sec. tapestries etc. Deliver entire San Jose Valley. 487-8098 / 378-8377 833-4920. Massage Certified ATTRACTIVE Amer/Italian, and exchange Spanish to Professionally decorated. Ph, through out country. Call English. Karen 223-8748 [email protected] Therapeutic Masseuse. Bello PROSPEROUS tourist Chris: 291-1652/867-4549 descent, looking for cute, cable TV, Internet. All ameni- Horizonte de Escazu. Call for product distribution company petite, honest, lady. Marriage ties, total furnished, secure, ROHRMOSER 2 bdr, 1 bath, for sale. 818-2876 1003 Condominiums appointment 228-1049 minded. Some Eng TAKING care of elderly per- quiet, gated. $995. Also large 24-hr sec, parking, stainless 702 Furniture Send Photo to: son by hour also offer B&B 1 bdr $650. 289-4579. applia, washer/ dryer. No [email protected] I’ll be in service. Tel. 223-8748 pets. Tel: 886-8867 $500/mo BELEN new lux. condo, 400 INVESTMENTS THE LAST opportunity leav- Housewares C.R in March. ing the country for sale + dep. central air, 3bdr. 3bath. 401 Business For Salon-Spa, exc. location in ESCAZU. condos, apts, walk-in closet, maid’s room, OVERSEA moving, must ITALIAN Man 44 patio, 2 car gar. pool & Sale San Jose. Good price. 1000 REAL ESTATE homes furn./unfurn. no fee ROHRMOSER modern, 160 348-6524, 870-6643. sell everything. Furn. new affectionate, charming, ath- 220-0361/825-2604 clubhouse, 24hr sec. great Honda moto scooter, new letic, educated looking for FOR RENT M2, 1 floor, 2 bdr+, 2 bath, location near Intel & Global BAR, Grill & Disco. 2,707 elect. house hold appliances, woman 35-55 serioos rela- view, light, secure, $695. Park. $1500. 516-768-1755 402 Financing 1001 Apartments 231-2261, 843-9094 M2. Liquor & other licenses, all together: $4,500. tion. 863-0119 Furn. apart, or 506-380-6445 [email protected] ESCAZU. fully equip., etc. Belen-Santa Separate: Negotiable. monthly, weekly from $155. Ana area. $700K OBO. Ph. LOOKING for mortgage? 288-2696. 348-4332 APARTAMENTOS FERSO: Tel. 289-7655 furn 1bdr 228-0672, 351-3250, 381- money over properties USA CITIZEN, young, Furn. apartments downtown ROHRMOSER, ESCAZU Bello Horizonte, 7513 392-9315 or crinvest- handsome man & financially from $10. St. 2, Ave. 6-8. apt. secure, h/w, ph, cable, excl., 2 story, 3 bdr, 3 bth, [email protected] 398-1264, 221-7404, $400- $450/mo. 296-7396 703 Miscellaneous secure seeks attractive Costa New 2 bdr, furn, finest decorations, 24- Rican lady, no kids, age 23 to 221-4167 GUANACASTE BAR/RESTAURANT a/c Brasilito/ Flamingo. wkly hr. sec. tel, $950 mo. 32 for serious relationship. 381-1336, 827-5451 Heredia, fully equipped, MAIL BOXES ETC. #1 GARAGE sale. Queen beds, Letter & photo to: or mo. Villa Ferlito with new ROHRMOSER. $550, $650- secure parking, International Postal Franchise, seeking bicycles, office desks. [email protected] BEACHFRONT. 5km W. of large pool. 386-7922 $700. 237-4051, 271-3941, liquor license, telephone, New Franchisee for area of 826-3778. Samara. Magical location. 394-1768, 238-2044. great location. $28K. 244- Liberia. Also available for From $200 on. 824-2822 ESCAZU condos, homes, 902 Women Seeking 2545 sale-MBE store located in HEREDIA newly remodeled apts furn/unfn, views, pools, Pavas, San Jose. contact: REFRI 18 cu/ft. U$ 570, Men sec, all prices. 288-1326. BELEN LOS Arcos, furn, 4 apart, 2 bdrm, 2 full bath. SAN PEDRO Area. 2 bdr, 1 Christopher Thompson. LCD 32 high def U$1,230, $250. 865-3993, 294-3012 BAR/RESTAURANT Inn for [email protected] TV 20’ $140, TV 29 flat tube bdrm, 2.5 bath, cable, ph, 24 bath, furnished, tel. gar. .$425. 391-5428/ 283-0158 sale in Quepos Center, www.mbe.com $300 Washer $360, Stove 1 ON 1 hr. security, wk, mo, yearly. ESCAZU rent or sale furn/ turnkey business. 864-8927 (smoothtop) $570. All new in Tel. 375-0518 unfurn, view, garden. box with warranty. 376-4740, 289-3303. REAL ESTATE financing Cel 361-0408 / 228-6889 MEET quality CR women. BO DENT 8 commercial or SAN PEDRO near Mas X DIVORCE FORCES SALE. Since 1992 oldest & most purchase, pre-development, doctor’s offices. $1600 mo. APARTMENTS Menos, new, furn, 1 bdr, tel. const. $50,000 to $10 successful service. Tel. 460-7682, 283-1183 washer, cable, Internet. $300, ESCAZU, Furn, Tennis ATV Tour Business for sale. million. Fast funding CRI SOLAR POWER security Ed: 506-391-1617 SUDAMER $350. Ph: 228-2049 Turn Key Cash Cow managment. 365-1758 [email protected] Bo. LUJAN, near San Jose court, pool, beautiful, 24 hrs lighting, remote solar wire- Downtown comple- sec. Tel: 885-3287 Adrenaline Tours a discount [email protected] less cameras, dock & land- ctr. Studio, full furn & ameni- tour center specializing in ties, parking not include but tely furnished apart- scape lighting, solar water ments, safe, secure, SAN PEDRO, country fur- their ATV tour Business can A Foreign available. ADSL, nished 2 bdr, elect. gate. *RENEWABLE ENERGY* telephone, cable TV, ESCAZU, Guachipelin furn. easily generate 10-15K per 403 Miscellaneous $600+deposit. 372-5844. $250/mo. Tel. 224-0985 month. Office is located on Wind generators, microhy- Affair Wi-Fi Internet. apt. 3bdr. 2.5bath, fully the 1st corner in Quepos with dro, batteries, charge con- Calle 7, Ave. 14 equipped, safe. Near Forum CR small investor seeks trollers, inverters, 12 & 24 Come join us and meet CARIARI on Golf course, 1 Weekly from $160 & Santa Ana. $560 wk. great signage there and couple as active partner to beautiful & sincere women SAN PEDRO, UCR/malls, around town. There are VDC lighting and appliances, bdr and 2 bdr furnished, Monthly from 1bdr, quiet, furn, Internet, $1300 mo. 382-2109 start new tourism project. LED Lights and all other nec- Feb 2nd & 3rd socials. Tour maid service. 239-1003 seven ATV’s all Registered [email protected] Feb 1st to 7th. Peresonal $480 to $650 $375 302-1499 (top condition) 2004-2005. essary supplies. Located in introductions. Free catalog & Phone: 221-0247 www.villalakshmi.com Live-in Mechanic available Florida. Contact for more video costa-rica-women.com CIUDAD COLON Furnished 381-3183 ESCAZU, Jaboncillo. with rancho restaurant for Your best shot is info. (Office) 321-783-0726. Townhouse, 24 hrs sec. Call: 256-2715 CR / studio apts. Utilities incl. Fax: 222-2195 SANTA ANA, furn apart 1 clients. Priced to sell at with an ad in the (fax) 321-783-0749 or 602-553-8178 USA 249-4736, 896-5510 carlosedmena@ Semi-furn. $1,000. bdr, ecological area, special 228-3310. $39,900. Dave at 310-0158 TT Classifieds www.nrgmanager.com costa-rica-women.com www.costaricanapts.com yahoo.com for retirees. $300. 203-3814 20 | CLASSIFIEDS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

HEREDIA, San Francisco LA GARITA 2 bdr, furn, NEED TO borrow $750K for close to Hipermas 190m2 Mountain pool, 24-hr sec, 1-yr lease, 1100 REAL ESTATE one year. Will give you a OPPORTUNITY 1104 Condominiums lot, 175m2 const, 2bdr. TV. Top Vacation $650 mo. 487-8282, DEVELOPMENT spectacular 5,011 M2, ocean study, terrace, $690. 487-8098 FOR SALE PARCELS view lot worth $400K over- KNOCKS! 380-4326. Mansion- looking Samara Beach for CARIARI Country Club new 25, 18 & 36 hecs. Interest. Will secure the loan Coco Beach’s townhouses, $150,000. Full Hotel-Resort PLAYA HERMOSA (Jaco). 1101 Apartments Financing. 387-6685 Daily with another $2,000,000 in First Mall JACO 1 bdrm, w/loft, bath, full furn, Ocean views lots. All lots are ready to Room/Suite h/w, 24-hr security. BRAND NEW Townhome build with clear title, power, $110,000. 373-1437 Internal roads, legal hoose a prime location in DESAMPARADOS new, 2 Condos 1 & 2 bdr town rates $195-$395 apts. for sale, rent or rent water & electricity. water, access, and all INVU, Coco Beach’s first major floor, 3 bdr, 2.5 bath, gar. house. Furn, behind Beatle (near San José) w/option to buy: seller will $5.75 to $7.25/sqm. Setena and Municipal shopping mall. Located in Quiet, safe neighborhood. www.costaricadream finance w/30% down, beauti- stamps. Lots are in a secure CC Bar, a/c, hot showers, pool, PLAYA HERMOSA, 10 minutes to Tamarindo the heart of the business dis- High quality const. $52,000. 24 hr sec, 1 block to beach. properties.com *Precious beach front 2 ful 3/2 1/2 near all gated community. Contact trict, just blocks from the Leila Retana 896-7912 (506) 643-2098 or Costa Rica bdrm, bath, fully equip. kit, embassies, indoor country www.tamarindovistas.com 232-1657. 381-4896 beach. Mall will feature a [email protected] 342-0153 (506) 868-5772 living with TV, Internet & club and 5min. from S.J or office [email protected] major hotel, double screen [email protected] United States cable. *Cabina, fully equip., Int Airport! Sale: $175k. 653-1102 movie theater, major restau- (561) 386-5153 2 bdr, kitchen. 643-5016 Rent: $1250 per month rant, luxury casino, and health ESCAZU condo 236 M2 SFO. HEREDIA. 2bdr. 786-506-6706 (Barby) club. Ample parking. condo, nice patio, 3 bdr, 2.5 2.5bath. TV. room, brand 011-506-258-1462(Nano) NOSARA bath & large living area. BEACHFRONT property in *Beachside lots from $75K Perfect for luxury and new. $600. sec. & maint. ATENAS, Rio Grande. 2 bdr, PLAZA DEL Sol. 400M2. boutique jewelry stores, high Gated complex of 16 units included. 837-3778. 2 baths, fully furn, balcony, const. 5 bdr, 4.5 bath, Samara. Spectacular beach- *”Casa Bella Nuevo” $489K, w/pool & 24-hr sec. 1102 Beach Property front property in Samara *”Vista Paraiso”-125 acres quality artisans, apparel exc. view, tel, DirectTV, very secure. $1,100. 383-0872/ stores, professional offices $220,000. Contact 302-6099 quiet & secure, 2 car gar, 381-1336. titled to 50 meters one of the $4,400,000 - Awesome [email protected] highest profit potential devel- ocean and jungle views - and services. STA. ANA Brand new lux. 150 M2 house, 700 M2 lot. BAHIA DE LAS Piratas, High quality retail spaces furn. view, 2 bath. 2bdr. 24 45 min. from beach, $400. opment properties in Costa Nosara is Pura Vida! Punta Playa Vistas, luxury Rica. Approx 40 acre already *Casa Paul $449,000 beach available from 48 to 77 sq. ESCAZU condo, 132 M2, 3 hrs. sec. must see!!! $1,300. Tel. 813-0915, 259-2008 RENT HOUSES- from meters on three levels for 866-6969/203-4759 $1300 usd, 2/3 rooms and development, panoramic approved for development of side homes. bdr, 2.5 bath. Spacious living ocean views, upscale ameni- 300 units has its own water *Lunquillal- “Casa Wilkie” lease or purchase. Prime area. Gated and 24 hr. sec. 2 bath, all serv. incl.: water, spots still available. Pre-con- BEACHFRONT single cabin elect, pool, cable, maint., 24 ties, excellent infrastructure system ready to supply all on the Beach. $650,000 car garage. $150,000. Montezuma area. lro- units. Comes with an addi- Beach lots/ homes/ large fin- struction prices. Ground- Tel. 892-1089. cynalp@hot- hr. security. Piedades and roads. Developer pre- breaking in early 2007. 1005 Houses [email protected] 203-4780, 847-0316 sale pricing. Lots from tional 23 acre oceanview cas in Nosara, Tambor and mail.com property complete with water Golfito. View properties For more information: http://lindavista.altervista.org $159,000, furnished condos 670-1401 4 BDRM, 2 baths house, 3.5 system. Also has 5000 M2, at www.mikepuhek.com CARIBBEAN $600 march from $259,000. Duplex concession lot that is incl. Contact Mike at six- ESCAZU condos, homes, kms from Puriscal. Beautiful only beautifully furn. ROHMOSER 3bdr/ 2bath ocean view villas from CHOICE LAND security, views, pools, all grounds, privacy, views, Price $9,000,000. Century [email protected] or American style home near den, all furn. $137,000. $439,000. Call 653-1241 21 Best Value Realty Samara. (USA) 805-473-2777, next to prices. 288-1326. house is bright & attractive. Black Beach. 3 double bdrs. OBO 220-0361/825-2604 www. SARDINAL RIVER $425 rent, $135K sale.Ph. 8506) 656-0049 805-459-1627 1.5 bath. large dining room, desmondcoastalproperties. his exceptional land is a US 518-686-3209 or living room, mod. ESCAZU new condo com single lot divided equally [email protected] fully equipped kitchen, h/w SABANA, 3 bdrm, fur- BEAUTIFUL new 4,000 sqft into farm and wooded unmatched luxury by owner. BEACHFRONT TT If you are looking for the ulti- screens, ceiling fans, short nished, great view, $1300. mansion overlooking Samara portions 14,000 sq. meters or walk to Puerto Viejo near Call 228-9131. mate in comfort, view and ALAJUELA, Sabanilla. By BEACH area lots and house Beach. 5,000 M2 ocean view PROPERTY 3.5 acres. Water and electric- busline, also small new 2 Playa Grande and Surfside. lot in a secure gated commu- ity. Located next to Sardinal amenities. 834-8247. the Poas Volcano. 2 bdr, 2 bdr. unfurn. house. $300mo With over 1000 feet of bath, garage, front & back 235-3479 nity. 3 bdrm, 3.5 bath. 24 ft. River. Includes a stand of SANTA ANA townhouses beachfront by 1000 feet exceptional 100-year-old patios. Fully furn. www.junglejimscr.com high living room with 24ft. HEREDIA, Santo Domingo, with community pool, 2/3 high monitor. All laminated back.A real find, 37 acres hardwood trees. Cultivated 875-2144, 812-5242 ESCAZU Condo walking bdr, furnished, $1500. next to Jaco right on 2 ample bdr, 2.5 baths. (English) 433-8120, mature teak beams wtih 1” portion ready for farming distance to shopping, view, 3 Tel. 588-1717 BEACHFRONT. 635ft. 4.6ac Playa Hermosa, in front of horses, or homesite. Only 1 gar. a/c. security. $75K 842-1451 (Spanish) bdrm. Tel. 885-3287 t&g teack ceilings. Jacuzzi, 895-0101/ 843-7103. save now before concession granite counters, custom the Almendro Tree Great minutes from Coco Beach, Look at: http:// is issued. 18993m2 at $20 Value at just $250/M2. [email protected] casasabanilla.atspace.com SANTA ANA beautiful sub- cabinets, hand made teak but tucked away in a serene m2. [email protected] doors and windows. We are interested in Bro- countryside setting. $125,000 ESCAZU downtown, 2 let 18 Feb-30 June. $750. kers with U.S. connec- floors, 3bdr. gar. w/elect. 282-6959, 393-0995 Canadian builder. Finished, Call 670-1401 HERRADURA/Jaco, 5 min. furnished, landscaped, pool tions to large developers. ALAJUELA- furn 1bdr cot- door. equipped kitchen, 2.5 BEACHFRONT 9 ac. private from Los Sueños, 2 bdr, fur. tages, 487-7566. bath. water heater, $500 mo and garage. If you buying in Call us now at OCEANVIEW LOT cbl. TV, A/C, pool. SANTA ANA upscale prop, House+Large Bodega, all Costa Rica you need to see 891-1287 or 892-7000 ceanview lots are in villaritacountrycottages.com plus deposit. 345-6304 services. $430,000. $89,000. 506-637-8994. gated comm, private pool & this home. $850,000. costaricahermosa.com great demand and Also, pre-const. Herradura area, sunset views, kitchen 288-2500 [email protected] Contact 232-1657, 381-4896 command top prices. www.ycrre.com OO 2 & 3 bdr. 2.5 bath. pool & ALAJUELA/La Garita. 2bdr. ESCAZU fully furn, 3bdr appliances included, 3 bdr, 3 [email protected] Why? Because they are in more, starting at: 2.5bath. front & back patios townhouse, 2 bath, garden, bath, maid’s quarter. [email protected] NOSARA Playa Pelada, limited supply. Here’s a 198,000. Call:506-637-8994. hot wtr. phone, cbl. & sec. complex, adults only, no $3500mo. 588-1717 BEACH house, ov. 3bdr. 3bath. pool chance to buy an exceptional Internet lines. Secure & pets, phone, cable. $1,300 AREA CONDOS 2000m2 lot. $380k ocean view lot at a low price private. English: 487-5934. mo. 228-0915 FREE OCEANview lot. Lend [email protected] 827-4119 for your luxury home. PENTHOUSE Barrio Amon, Spanish: 433-6641. $300 SANTA Barbara Three 2 GREAT BUYS! me $750K for one year and Located in the exclusive com- San Jose, elegantly fur- story houses on large lots in immediately. I will give you a munity of Ocotal Beach, near nished, great view, 24-hr ESCAZU spacious 4 bdr, an enclosed, guarded dvlpm- •Magnificent• Ocean spectacular 5,011 M2, ocean OPPORTUNITY, 1 hect. several luxury resorts and security, air cond. $350,000 AMERICAN house 3/2/2, terrace, 4 car garage, $1600. nt. 3 or 4 bdr, 2.5 bths, 2 car View view, lot worth $400K over- Jaco Guacalillo, in front of luxury view homes. About Tel. 392-6746 or 829-3198 furn., cable, tel,, h/w, near Call 228-9131 gar, balconies, cable, tel, full Only 10% down! looking Samara Beach for the beach, trade. $190,000 one acre with a grand view Financing Available universities & malls in kitchen & laundry. $800 • Quiet undeveloped interest. Will secure the loan 812-6140 of Ocotal Bay and the Pacific Heredia, $500mo & short 269-5180 or 357-4647 with another $2,000,000 in Ocean. Only $360,000 ESCAZU, 1 storey, 4bdr. rural area TRY www.costaricatropical terms. Call Carlos 237-3154 • Incredible view of lots. All lots are ready to Call 670-1401 or 954-452-3369 or 4.5bath. office, garden, BBQ build with clear title, power, PLAYA HERMOSA beach paradiseproperties.com for $2,500 also for all at $28k STA. BARBARA, Heredia. Papagayo Bay [email protected] water, access, and all INVU, front, equipped, cabinas w/ CR Properties Realty, Coco service, integrity & reliability 829-9812 Coffee plantation. New, 3 bdr, • 100 M2, 2 restaurant. Tel. 643-7022 Setena, and Municipal 670-1401 US 2 bath, h/w, fully furn, living/ bedrooms, 2 baths stamps. Lots are in a secure- dining, office. Spectacular Canada 301-760-7189 1106 Farms APTS/CONDOS & homes ESCAZU, view, 3bdr. 2 • 100 m from beach gated community. Contact 360 views. Safe, maid, tel/ • $130,000 pre- 232-1657, 381-4896. PLAYA SAMARA, 12 room www.crpropertiesrealty.com very nice, for rent or sale in living, office, garden, alarm. ADSL Internet. All appli- hotel with bar, restaurant + $1,500 mo. 506-289-5482. construction [email protected] exclusive neighborhoods ances. $800 269-9225 [email protected] pool. Only $595,000. such as Rohrmoser, Escazu, www.balconesdeescazu.com [email protected] •Beautiful• Coco 835-3174 2.5 ACRES Beach [email protected] Cariari. Bob 236-1028, Nicoya Peninsula, water, pwr 390-2988 • Short walk to Coco GUANACASTE, near Coco FREE HOUSE-room in TAMARINDO, 10Km East HECTARES prime commer- avail. $12,900. 870-4290 return for morning help in Beach Beach, 5 acres, compound, 3 from beach, 2bdr, furn, a/c, houses, pool, $950K, see SAN JUANILLO! Beautiful cial property near B&B/fruit farm, commission • 1 bedroom, 1 bath, ocean view lots & dvlpmnt ARENA de Grecia, quinta h/w, fruit trees monkeys. pictures. Tel. 383-3233, USA Tamarindo. 200m paved road 2900 AC near Flamingo poss. Dog friendly. 2683084 $250/wk. 301-3867. 60 M2 properties, 15 min. from 4,969 m2, furnished house [email protected] • New development 949-584-9680 frontage. This property w/540 ac of mature teak, www.haciendasardinal.com shopping, serv & Nosara air- is well suited for comm. 260 m2, panoramic view. in Coco port. Elect, wtr & private great views, at low price: $600 negotiable. 378-5772, UNREAL opportunity in • Gated community reserve. Forever unobstruct- retail or mixed use. Owner $34 m2. Info: 288-2500 440-3002 Eng, 380-4538, GREAT accommodations Escazu 1 mo. 3 mo. 6 mo ed Sunset views. can build to suit or assist www.ycrre.com close to beautiful Conchal • Includes all JUNQUILLAL 4 acres $63 Spanish. Lease available. 4bdr. 4bath. m2. 833-3297, beachfront Gated nature comm, direct with the development & beach. Tel. 367-0855. Beuatifully furn. 2 car gar. appliances const. process. Recent • $99,750 [email protected] NEG from owner. Visit: www. EMERALD Forest Properties 24hr sec. Eng. 361-2135 ecolandia.com/sale/ appraisal available. For addi- ATENAS large 1 bdr on 9 preconstruction is now taking listings in GRECIA PROPERTIES. Span: 857-0310. $3,100 index.html tional info. contact Freddy Atenas, Grecia & La Garita. acres, view, tel, gated, furn, •Owner• must sell LOOKING Guanacaste lots Tel: Mr. Brenes 812-7416 Esquivel in C.R at: Direct TV $285mo. 4466584 Web site If you wish to sell your www.greciarealestate.com WANTED FURN. house Great Condo from 25 to 30 has. Beach or 382-8280 447-4162/820-3501. For property QUICK! give us a 356-1616 Spanish 834-2118 near Grecia/Atenas, on or Only 10% down! front, directly with owner. info in U.S. call Dennis call at: 267-6360/816-9898 near bus, must have out- • Close to Ocotal Tel. 203-5237 Merrit at 407-948-4190 or 10.760 sqft. Integrity & experience you BEAUTIFUL building for woodworking Beach [email protected] TAMBOR- visit www.cadg.cc can count on! GUACHIPELIN Escazu, 250 shop about 400 sqft. in CR Titled, beachfront $250,000 2 BED, 2 BATH • 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, Tambor-2/3 ac. 2 homes, M2, only 7 houses in condo, now. [email protected] 80 M2 24 hr sec, 2 park areas, 4 MANUEL ANTONIO only $85,000. 288-2500 ESPARZA, Baron. Beautiful • Asking $75,000 2 homes for sale. New ocean [email protected] NOSARA-Playa Guiones. ownhouse on cor- bdr, 4 bath, walk-in closet, 1.8 hec. (4+acre) lot very recreational 13 acres, all TV rm, patio, maid’s rm, attic, WOMAN to share house. • Near restaurants view, 4 bdr, 4 bath, 4200 www.ycrre.com serv, fruit trees, mountain, ner lot in gated sqft. $699K and a jungle close to beach in the heart of community. Lots of 2 warehouses, lux. finish- San Antonio de Coronado. and shopping. river. Only 15 min. from T ings, nice view & quiet. Quiet, safe, gardens. Ana •Cozy• Studio in home. 8 bed/5 bath, 3 the development, waterview. Caldera. $125,000. (506) T 1103 Commercial light. Small courtyard $1150. Tel. 827-2808 Zamora. 294-5907/350-0215 kitchens, 8000 sqft. $479K. $2.5 million. Call 817-7474 Fax 445-7334. garden with fountain. Ocotal 303-668-8685 • $37,100 – owner Property (506) 682-0012 or [email protected] 100 M2. Washer and 954-467-1739 GUANACASTE, near Coco 1006 Rooms must sell Dryer. Phone, Good MATAPALO (Aguirre) 1832 storage space. Residen- Beach, 5 acres, compound, 3 • Walk to Ocotal FOR INVESTORS. Buy FARM w/ Tilapia project, houses, pool, $8500, see Beach! M2, beach lot for sale. opportunity for sale, 7 com- ranch and pool. cial Privacia, Lagunilla HEREDIA, lovely balcony, 787-5207. REST/PATIO Bar. 100m to pictures. Tel. 383-3233, USA views on charming B&B. 10 • 30 M2 completed mercial locales, in San Jose beach Hotels+high rises on Cell: 829-7506, 394-6292 de Heredia (Between 949-584-9680 [email protected] Center. All are rented. Cariari Mall and Jar- min. to Hdia, quiet person condo gold coast. Remodeled $44k www.haciendasardinal.com • Swimming pool, Excellent income. dines del Recuerdo). $200 mo, bus nearby our Tel. 231-1896, 232-7650 Turnkey. 916-974-8555. FARMS, Homes, condomini- $550 month. Yearly rustic 3-bdr house. $300 mo. beautiful Car broke down? [email protected] ums, business opportunities, Tel. 268-3084 landscape. lease. Available Feb. 1. HEREDIA San Rafael, big, Lose that frown; undeveloped land in the furn. house, green areas, Call now! 670-1401 SANTA ANA. Multiple mountain & at the beach. All Call Jim at very sec. domestic service, Your ad will be find help in the offices new commercial ctr SAN JOSE, ideal for offices, sizes & prices. See: seen ‘round CR Properties nicest in all Costa Rica. Internet & cbl. TV $1,350 Realty, Coco or home. $45.000 www.angiesanchezhomes.com 365-3908 814-6220/267-6991 the world! TT Classifieds $225,000. Tel: 203-5606 Tel: 268-3942/386-6745 or call 843-7053 CR THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | CLASSIFIEDS | 21

GOLFITO 136 hect. North of BIG OCEAN view from the SANTA ANA house, new \ESCAZU, 624 M2. great PIEDADES Santa Ana, 3 Airport, La Finca La Gamba. mtns. 16 miles west of TicoRealty gated community, 3 bdrm, views, exc. loc. finan. avail. hectares, nice views, $14 per Call Troy 872-2622 Puriscal. 2.5 acres. 2/1 total- ATENAS .com 670 M2 land, 320 M2 const. $105K. OBO. 380-4447. M2. Tel. 823-1136 ly remodeled with new tile, Picaflora $320K negotiable. carpet, bath and porch. Tel. 823-1136 GUANACASTE/ $40usxm2 Beautiful wood throughout. Bali Estates VIEW PHOTO TOURS REAL ESTATE GARITA de Alajuela. PRIVATE PARADISE: estate 5000m2, 5min. from $142,000. http://www.ben. OF 690 PROPERTIES Residencial el Bosque. property located Dominical/ Tamarindo, wtr. and elect. floridakeysweb .com Beauty By Nature/ FOR SALE OR RENT SANTA ANA Puerta Hierro Country Views 914.72m2, $100m2. Platinillo very easy access to 835-1625 011-506-416-3023 www.ticorealty.com 5bdr. 4.5 bath. 3229.2sqft Lovely 4 acre home site (506)301-5979. Carlos. property & beach. A main- [email protected] Elegance 588-1717, 290-7667 $355,000. 871-7373 in a small, peaceful & tainable 3 ac/12,110 M2, picturesque village near lovely trees/plantings, per- JACO, Playa Hermosa. 800 By Design Puriscal; just 1 hr. to GRECIA PROPERTIES. fect elevation for temp./ Ha. Ocean view, all services, BRANDNEW unique MANUEL Antonio/ Quepos SANTA ANA, Piedades 275 San Jose; mature trees; Web site breeze, no fog, gorgeous water falls, easy access. American Victorian/Country www.costa-rica- area 8 miles from the Manuel m2 3 bdr. 3.5 bath, large creek; birds; great www.greciarealestate.com ocean sunsets & valley US$5.5millions 385-3164 style house w/ oldfashioned Antonio beach. New, all Teak covered patio, garden, gour- VIEWS; privacy; utili- 356-1616 Spanish 834-2118 views. Public H2O, elect. just Spanish. interior, 3 bdr. 3.5 bath. real-estate.org wood home with 3 bdr, 2 met kitchen, dining room w/ ties; nice climate; home 12m away. $185K. 2 car gar. marble bath. big bath, a/c, 2 car gar, com- 2 car garage on 460m2 lot in package available. US 610-473-8860. Details: Cel. 832-3231 guarded/gated comm, 5 min. $75,000. GUANACASTE, Playa Garza LA GRANJA. 4bdr. 3.5bath deck, Rancho, dream of pletely furnished. $255K For ocean view, close to beach. [email protected] a kitchen, 60% furn. more information go to from Forum Pre-construction lg. living room w/cathedral priced at $260,000, house Nature & Views 62 Ha., $15M2. ceilings, office, gar, alarm. (European import), diesel ESTERILLOS Oeste, new & www.sellingincostarica.com Secluded 4-acre parcel; carlos_devandas@hotmail. generator, great view. Even very elegant 3800 sqft home Tel: (506)779-1703. finished in May. 394-4742 PROPERTY for sale 5033 $150,000. $800 288-3878/ eco-compound behind com M2 with gorgeous ocean 373-4971. the 06 Kia Spotage Diesel w/partial ocean view in gated La Paz Waterfall Gar- auto is incl. $680.000. comm. within 2-3 minutes of dens; great VIEWS; lush views North to Papagayo, [email protected] MORAVIA, residential area, SANTA ANA, Villa Real, south to Potrero Bay (site of 444-6075/876-0631 great surfing beach. great view, 3bdr. 2.5bath. rain forest: pristine HEREDIA beaut. 5645 M2. $395,000. Contact 2 story, 300m const. & river; plenty of birds & flat, own well, walls, all serv, Flamingo Marina), Flamingo 220m2 lot. 506-234-1762 office, garden $550k. It won’t and to Conchal Bay. Level OUTSTANDING sea and Jim 778-7140 or 301-7366 last for rent. $3,000 wildlife; privacy & 20 min. from S.J. $30M2. mountain views plus 10 BUILDER-We do Home [email protected] peace; all utilities; 1 hr Facilities. 359-5262 building site with water and Repair. Work residency & ref- 392-5661 electric. CR corporation acres of land for gardening NARANJO, dist. Franquil, to San José; home pack- [email protected] or horses. This farm is locat- erences New const. or age available. included. Bella Vista #9 in remodeling we do. Buying a GRECIA PROPERTIES. 2story, renovated, 3bdr. $85,000. area of exclusive homes. ed on a quiet road. Road in 2bath. gar. elect door, gar- SANTA ANA-Gated with Panica 10 min to Tambor. home here, let me inspect it Web site www.grecia- garden on both sides, 2bdr. HEREDIA San Isidro, ready $298,000. Tel. 653-8953, or before you buy, nobody likes realestate.com 356-1616 den, furn. kitchen. terrace Rain Forest to build, exc. views, waterfall, cell 301-4984 $295,000. 1 hect. (2.4 acres) roof , near school, market, office, 2bath, 1 level, 190m2. Heaven located in Panica. $85,000. surprises. If some things Spanish 834-2118 $149,000. 382-7399 elect. gate. All utilities, aren’t right, just call me for bustop. $87k or $92k door 100 acres of lush rain including Internet, cable, 867-8978 closed furn. forest; behind La Paz PUNTA ISLITA, Corozalito [email protected] some free advice. Ethics you concrete driveway. deserve & honesty you GRECIA, a brand new fax: (506) 450-3894 or SANTA ANA/ residential Waterfall Gardens, next 14,000M2, $100,000. 95 acres, w/ magnificent expect. Looking after owner UNIQUE in American style e-mail: resort community. Secure/ to Poas Volcano Park; 268-3672, 268-8050 ocean views $4.8 million. SAN JUANILLO is what we do. built country house on [email protected] gated, 2 pools, waterfalls, pristine river, waterfalls, Tel: 880-9238. Development Opportunity. Jim 355-5243| 3400mts. land. This house High speed Internet, exten- superior wildlife; VIEWS; [email protected] will be sold completely furn. good road & utilities; HEREDIA, Concepcion, San sold by owner, 92, 46, 23 NEW NATURE Reserve sive gardens, cable, satellite ideal for Nature Retreat. hectares. 180-degree views w/imported European furn. TV, phone. For Lease: New, 2 Rafael lot 7000m2, private, CAHUITA 1.200m2, house lots of precious antiques, a Home in sec. planned com- 1 hr. to San José. 15 minutes from San Jose, PUNTARENAS, Parrita. of coastline and rolling hills munity in SantaAna, 3bdr. bdr, 2 bath, $1600 & studio $279,000 5000m2 lot, Bejuco Beach of the jungle. 10 minutes 250m2, with 5 cabin, 2 computer and even a 06’ KIA $700, fully furnished to exec- elect/water/ telephone, secu- apartm. $250K. 361-7883. Sportage Auto. All facilities 2bath. 300m2. $325k property 300mts away from from beaches of San Juanillo utive standards. For sale: 2 Ranch with rity. $29M2. 878-5875 like highspeed Internet, tel & Call: 289-8638 [email protected] beach, $325k. 349-5618 and Ostional. The San bdr, 2.5 bath, 2 flr, 158 M2, Views USA: 702-610-7381 Juanillo River snakes satelite TV. This chance will $270K. 2 bdr, 2 bath, 1 fl, Gorgeous 35 acre CARIARI Charming, 1 level, only come once in your life. [email protected] through the land with water 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath, maid’s OPPORTUNITY 4 apt. & 2 120 M2 $190K, fully fur- ranch in a picturesque HOJANCHA, Guanacaste, running all year round. This is really a suitcase deal. houses in Quepos Naranjito nished. 305-3965, village of Puriscal; nice room w/bath & wheelchair Email: 10 hect. planted TECA, 4 Including three springs. Two accessible. $250,000. Full $190,000. 812-6140 www.residenciaslosjardines. rolling hills with large PUNTARENAS, San Miguel [email protected] terraces; good VIEWS; years plantation. $200.000 water tanks of 70,000 litres., Financing. 387-6685 com Tel: 386-2413 Barranca. 8ha. and 10ha, $10 two wells, internal roads, excellent climate; good M2, Golfo de Nicoya view. electricity mains. Perfect PARAISO, Cartago. 7 soil; forest; wildlife; Sea breeze, exc. for tourist GUANACASTE, beatiful, w/ bdrms, 5 baths, ample liv- TAMARINDO Area. 2000sq paved road; all utilities; topography and space to CARIARI, area 804M2 land or w/o furn. 200m2 const. LA PALMA de Coronado, development build a landing strip or golf 300M2. const. 4 bdr, 3.5 ings, terrace, nice view to ft. home nicely furn. on cozy owner's house; 1 or Villas. Accept offers. & 1400m2 lot, 15 min. from hr to San José. 142,181 M2, 1600 mts alti- course.... More than 15,000 bath 2 car gar, $298K. Central Valley and Cachi 1.25 ac lot. 3bdr. 2.5bath. tude, 150 M2 const, 18 Km 392-6613/225-8386 Liberia. 506-234-1762. lake, 13720 M2, beautiful full kitchen, large pool in $375,000. fruit and hardwood trees. T Tel: 822-6383. www.actionrealtycr.com from San Jose, springwater, (506) 339-2042/ 458-5154 green areas, many fruit trees, Landsc. garden. 357-5534 4.5 hect of mountain, all tilapia ponds, party ranch, No agents please. Mansion with SAN ANTONIO Escazu, breathing@ Views services. $7 M2. 529-0067, ranganaoliveira .com COCO BEACH Gte. 400 mts HEREDIA, Belen. New, 2 warehouse, guard house. 868-9082 4300 M2, perfect for condos from beach. Lot 1,750 M2 Own weel, electric pomps. Exclusive Mediter- or houses, good road, great story, 3 bdr, 2.5 bath, 2 car TAMBOR Ocean view home ranean style 10,000sqft house 220 M2. 3 bdr, 2 gar, 170M2, furn or unfurn, Ideal for clinic, university, view. $65M2. Tel. 823-1136 baths, 670-3818. 290, 821- hotel, behind of Costa Rica $150,000 finish it yourself home; in Escazú gated tel, jacuzzi. US$1million. hilltop; 3+ acres of trop- LIMON Only for 1107 Houses 2072. Moving sale University house. Facilities. and save a bundle. arroy- Conservationists. 8 acres of Tel: 374-7823. [email protected] or ical gardens; breath- SAN ANTONIO Escazu, 1 (506) 551-1342, taking VIEWS; covered mountain. $1,000 each acre fax: (506) 551-2076 843-290-5272 Titled. 30 min. to Caribbean hectare, views, good access, $90,000, 2 bdr. 2.5 bath new CONFUSED about real terrace for 100+ peo- $40 M2.Tel. 823-1136 house, concrete & steel HEREDIA, close to Barva, [email protected] ple; Helipad; 15 min. to Beach. 347-3634, 710-1823 estate? www.costaricatropical in residential, 234m2 lot & const, gated comm., pool, paradiseproperties.com VISIT www.costaricatropical San José. Privacy & financing available. 200m2 const. 506-234-1762 Security, $1,600,000. PEREZ Zeledon, Beatiful 3 paradiseproperties.com for LIMON reforested parcel, SAN RAMON $11M2, 506-788-1150/ 870-4998. www.actionrealty.com all your real estate needs. ocean/mountain view. bdr, 2 bath, 1 car gar. garden Info on these & others 11,000 M2, $6000. EMERALD Forest Properties $125,000. 770-9109. Tel. 365-4052, 342-6108 5,300m2. Utilities. 249-0046 is now taking listings in A PIECE of paradise a new HIGUITO SAN Mateo, 1108 Lots/Property 288-1414 Atenas, Grecia & La Garita. Alajuela, 1,925 m2 lot, 4 bdr, SANTA ANA few minutes 1900sqft, 3bdr. 2bath, If you wish to sell your PUNTA LEONA house 822-1414 pool rancho, fully furn. on 2 bath, jac, fruit trees. MANUEL Antonio, secluded from Forum 1836,51 M2, property QUICK! give us a $340,000. Escazu rent $1300 2.5 ACRES, in the hills of [email protected] 1200 M2 part. Ocean view flat. Telfax 506-228-7673 1.5 ac. $299,000 for more English 222-4448 Victor Playa Hermosa, views from call at: 267-6360/816-9898 Mata from 10 am to 4 pm or sale $135,000. w/rainforest. Tel. 882-7717, [email protected] info call Dave: 867-9426 Integrity & experience you Tel. 829-3771, 228-1942 Jaco to Esterillos, 90% email: [email protected] 787-8378 can count on! buildable, perfect for condos BY OWNER Spectacular 1109 Timeshares HILLS of Coronado. small, or multy homes, power 6 100 ft waterfall ($229,000) SAN ANTONIO Escazu, APTS/CONDOS & homes quality, gated development, water. $9 sqft. Falling into a large natural OCEAN VIEW 10 1300 M2 land, 200 M2 831-1621 pool on 8.75 acres of private CONDOVAC, Holy wk, very nice, for rent or sale in ESCAZU your choice, new homes or const, great views, 4 bdrm, 3 $1,000. Share $11,000. exclusive neighborhoods primary Jungle Land with a Acres $189,000 lots. 393-2567. bath, $290K. 823-1136 tremendous variety of rare Tel: 225-5020/ 387-1002. such as Rohrmoser, Escazu, PARADISE CA (250)715-6115 ARENAL-Turtle Cove Lake Cariari. Bob 236-1028, tropical trees full of white- Near Tamarindo one hour Club, lakefront gated com- from Liberia Airport, gently CONDOVAC. Full equipp. 390-2988 SAN JOSE, near seminario faced and congo monkeys, SECLUDED 1 story, garden munity: Marina, restaurant, slopes towards ocean, topog- cabin, 6 persons, children LA FORTUNA -fabulous Mayor, Paso Ancho. All toucans and other exotic 4bdr. 4.5bath. guest cottage, spa, boat storage. Financing rapher says can get 12 lots free. $800. 16-23 Feb. And volcano view. Tico-style services. Corner house. 2 available. Broker commis- birds and animals. Includes what a dream hideout+++so caretakers couple and house 90% with view, quiet pretty for sale Timeshare $10,000. Thecostarica house, 3 bdrs, 1 bath. car gar. 3bdr. exc. sec. sions, Owner/ developer. US area. Subdivision included. much to see $450 Neg. Furn. $70,000 Unfurn on main road w/ electricity, Emily. 370-2735/ 225-0072. 228-9197/334-5156 560m2 property, bordered by (404) 543-8640, Pics at marrbucks. com Don’t realty.com protected land on two sides, $67,500. 861-8276 CR (506) 353-0716 phone, public water, 5 min. miss this opportunity to THE BCHCLUB, St. Aug. Fl. fruit trees, birds private, turtlecovelakeclub.com to Libano. Tel: triple your money! Adjacent ESCAZU gated community, Danny (954) 868-1264 FL, 1 bdr $1000. Rentals & Sales quite, private, rural, 3 miles Alajuela. acreage also available and 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath, maid’s SAN RAMON, USA. [email protected] [email protected]. 228-6863 quarters, 350 M2 const. from La Fortuna center 1500m2, fenced w/2 houses BEACHFRONT lot 500mt. seller says all cash offers Priced $239,000. 296-3709 $58,000. John 365-9568. fruit trees, green areas. great view of mountains, considered. 506-397-7548 ARE YOU looking for a [email protected] 899-3167/878-8557 corporation & consseson CR, 800-931-6329 from US 1110 Rent or Sale CHARMING Country home property in Escazu? We have ESCAZU great 5 bdr. 5 440-7179 ready to build between everything. 289-5059 Quepos & Jaco, water pw, priced to sell near Venecia in PANAMA Real Estate. baths. big garden, 4 parking. LIBERIA, Gte. 250m2 lot & SAN ANTONIO, Escazu. www.realtyincostarica.com 832-5068/290-0236 phone avail. No rd. in front Marcella. A bargain $85,000. Large lots for investment or 180m2 const. 15 min from SAN VITO Coto Brus, 6 ha, of property. Direct beach [email protected] development. Beach, ocean Rent $1,200. Sale $380,000 airp. 506-234-1762. 4000 ft elev. House, bodega, acess. $200,000. Call U.S www.feslick.com/coxhome/ & mountain view. or Trade. 4 bdr. 3 bath, 2 Atenas Realty ESCAZU new 4 bdr. 3 bath. www.actionrealty.com corral, all utilities, on paved 802-257-0861. Evenings or htm 507-265-REAL. story, 3 car gar, amenities. great view. $269,000 road. 3 km town, hospital, [email protected] panamarealestatepros.com Tel: 307-5680/ 372-8925. www.atenasrealty.com furnished 289-4758. airstrip. $114,000. [email protected] LLANO GRANDE, Cartago, CUIDAD Colon. Large 7536 PEREZ ZELEDON, 73hect. SANTA ANA APARTMENTS 1,500M2 lot ATENAS, Properties in the brand new 290M2 const, BEAUTIFUL m2 lot, in a gated communi- road to Interamerican Hghy. For rent/sale 2, 3 bdr Furn ESCAZU Penthouse fab. amazing view. 3530 M2 land 5Km up the hill between ty, has incredible views and All services. 506-234-1762. or unfurn, pool, gym 24 hr. best climate. 506-446-6619 view, deluxe finishes, pool, SANTA ANA gated comm. Playa Bejuco & Bandera. www.atenas.co.cr $250K. Accept property near security system, fenced, min. sunsets. Existing 100 m2 www.actionrealtycr.com sec, wireless Internet cable, 3 sec. 832-5068, 290-0236 beach as part of payment. Nice tranquil area. $45,000 / small house and permits to min to Forum, 15 min to Intl. from US ambassador’s 349-8001. BRAND NEW in exclusive 353-8870 9-3 pm residence. Natural setting, build new const. Priced for Aiport, Call (506) 282-1010. Santa Ana comm. 3230 sqtf. ESCAZU Super Contempo extended views, creek ran- quick sale $340,000 PIEDADES house, 5 bdr, views, pool. BUENA VISTA village road 302-6099 1111 Quintas pool, tennis, views. $350K cho, 1400m land, 500m to San Ramon-Alajuela. Farm 288-2500 www.ycrre.com Guest house, play room, hot house, 3bdr. 4 bath. maid’s [email protected] tub, view. 885-3287 with tremendous views, over- SPECTACULAR qtrs, laundry, office with looking Gulf & Nicoya views of the Central Valley, separate entrance & ball 15 MIN. from Alajuela, BEAUTIFUL new 3bdr. 3.5 Peninsula, incl. Cerro Berlin ESCAZU, 13 hectares over- fruit trees, coffee. Perfect for 4bdr. 2bath. fruit trees, in deck, rancho, well designed large estate lots or condo bath fully furn condominium ESCAZU- opportunity, 3 & Puntarenas. 1.5 ha, (3.71 looking the valley. This front of main road. 1km north bdrm, ample gardens & for easy living & entertaining acres), Good access & all development. $439,000. located on the 5th floor of $275,000. 244-0316 is a must-see property. $27 from Casa Bavaria. social areas, 2 car gar. services. $95,000 German sqmt. 296-2300 856-4569. 835-3174 La Alhambra in Escazu for 844-6154 $125,000. OBO. 483-1832 $275,000. 290-8830. Rosa 380-5724, 228-4519 822-5976, 340-0384 owner. 447-8269, 445-9530 eco-pages-costarica.com [email protected] 22 | CLASSIFIEDS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007

GUANACASTE, near Coco HONDA Civic 95, XL, 4 drs, 95 FORD Explorer, new tires BILL’S Rent-a-Car Beach, 5 acres, compound, 3 1211 Legal Services PRIVATE RTV, automatic, loaded, 6cd player very nice great 1504 Motorcycles $20 day, $120 a week, $500 houses, pool, $950K, see beautiful, red, $5,500 Tel. suv. Tel: 260-4578. mo. $300 deposit. pictures. Tel. CR 383-3233, TOUR 260-4856, 862-5547 $7,800 English only. 362-5403 USA 949-584-9680 ASSET PROTECTION HARLEY DAVIDSON www.haciendasardinal.com & Corporate Structures. NEW 12-PASSENGER VAN 1951 FL 1200 cc. Residency specialists, back- Experienced English-speak- YOUR BEST USED CAR 96’TOYOTA 4runner, gaso- 1955 FL 1200 cc 1200 SERVICES ground investigations, Real ing Guide. Anywhere, in ehlerscars.com 384-9978 line, 63k miles, garaged 1958 FLH 1200 cc. BULLET Proof Rentals. Estate & accounts Anytime $25. with Andy. little use, great cond. fully 1983 FXR 1540 cc. Mercedes turbo diesel $25 1203 Construction loaded $9900. 385-7848 call: 834-4196 Call Jim 249-2701, 221-4136/306-3225 up. T. 822-0706/ 282-3564 4X4 CAR RENTAL has quality cell 395-2407 1502 4X4’S autos with air, CD players, [email protected] 3 PASLODE Neumatic Nail GRUPO COSTA Ipanema 97 TOYOTA Four Runner 4 RIDE THE best Kawasaki starting at $35 per day, Guns (New). 7 boxes Nails Residency Specialist. door, 4X4, automatic, full xts. KLR Crossing & Enduro bike CAR including full coverage 1309 Tours 01 DODGE Ram Ex. Cab inox & regular. Price $3,000 8750447/[email protected] 4x4 Bcyl. Auto air PS PB Mint cond. $13,900. 650cc. Perfect cond, alarm insur. & unlimited mileage. OBO. Tel: 215-3814 80,000. Orig. miles linex Tel. 244-0484 system, aluminum carriers, 358-7676 Corbin seats, windshield. 5sp. and automatic www.4x4rentacar.com PERMANENT Residency/ TRANSFERS/ 1 day tours, bedliner, Cargo box & + Real Estates Showing, 4X4 Taxes paid, tico plates. Book value $6,000 inmediate $125 to $175 week. A1 MASTER builder, elec- pensionado/ rentista, 99 LAND Rover Freelander sale $4,500. Low miles, very tric, plumbing, cement- block renewals. Highly referred. car. Tel 832-5656 lro- 813-0169/$25,000 Good cond, low mileage, [email protected] Eng/Span. dependable. TUCAN RENT A CAR stucco , Am. owned. 289- Flora 253-1686 sunroof, new tires, $11,500. Randall (506) 842-0181. ALSO Trooper, Mitsubishi Montero, 7486 /3070164 289-4579. low rate, rental Insurance, 01 GALLAPER II, 75,000 15 pass. Van $250 a week. low deposit. VILLALOBOS Investors HOTEL 1505 Rentals PURCHASING A NEW km. 5SP Diesel, ext. clean, 228-5827, 825-2694 tucanrentacar.com Call (506) 296-1936 99’TROOPER. Good cond 441-0859/441-7744/ HOME? won’t waste your time!! all extras. $8,500 US. [email protected] EL CAFETAL $15,500- 203-2582 840-8501 Protect your investment with 1300 TOURISM Tel: 654-5209 a professional, affordable *CARS home inspection by U.S. Co 1301 Accommodations Offers weddings EXPEDITION Get the best 1600 WANTED 01 TOYOTA Rav4-must sell. $125-$195 a week quality 4X4 cars for rent with Contact Costa Rica Insp. at our bar-rest. MITSUBISHI Nativa 2003 1601 Wanted Service. At (506) 524-2155 Exc. cond. a/c. PS PB Turbo Diesel Intercooler. Call Andy 282-7013 full extras, free mileage (330) 3131219 or email: to BIBI’S B and B: New home, Rincón Llanero 4door, CD, new wheels, tires, 39km. exc. cond. 866-6969. quiet, fabulous garden with battery brilliant silver. mileage. (506) 379-7000 paula.moncayo@starktruss. Max. 75 pers. WANTED: YOUR COM- com jacuzzi, cable TV, Internet, US 404-966-5863. 4x4 TROOPER for Rent, all with a/c & exc cond. MENTS SKYPE, kitchen, laundry, RANGE ROVER RENT A CAR 4X4, new www.VoiceExpatCR.org near San Jose, $45dbl, Luis / Tony 832-5656 models, from $30/day. 1204 Computers St. Eulalia of Atenas 91, Retired sell, low miles, SPEAK UP- BE HEARD! $37sngl, wkly, mnth rates. full extras, $8,000. [email protected] Special p/week. 811-9620 (506) 244-7324 05 X-Trail 446-5785 Tel: 253-0992. [email protected] 4x4 Nissan Need a car? AAA www.cafetal.com AUTOS, 4X4, vans, trucks, SMART CAR RENTAL automatic, low mileage 4dr. special raise. Daily, wkly. mo. Don’t look far; HOTEL MANGO Suites in TOYOTA, 4 RUNNER 95, V6, Free mileage. Insurance 4x4 quality cars with all COMPUTER multilock looks great. full extras, Leather, new tires, inclusive rates. Special week- Escazu. Beautiful, spacious $23,900 By owner. Call incl. 506-443-3333. find it in suites, cable TV, maid serv., 4” Lift kit for extreme condi- 380-3432. ly & monthly discounts. All Work Guaranteed or your 1400 Robert: 369-7797 the TT Money Back! Mike 302-5558 jacuzzi, fireplace, pool table, tions. Price $14,000. OBO www.crtopicalrenta 506-834-8686. or spectacular view, only 2 min TRANSPORTATION Tel: 215-3814. car.com [email protected] Classifieds from Multiplaza. Massage & 1980 TOYOTA FJ-40 ONSITE Computer Service / facials available. Rooms start 1402 Boats Landcruiser Jeep, great paint, Repair. Happy Gringo at $39/day. Contact: 6 disc. CD, air cond, power Computer for all your hard- 228-8162 / 360-1000. 16’ DUROBOAT, welded steering, rack, grill guard. ware/software needs. Kevin alum. Cnt console w/canvas $13,500. 244-0484 Huey. 879-1188 PELICAN Beachfront Hotel, top 60 hp Tohatsu T&T $5,500/ Tel: 349-8001. midway Jaco/Quepos/ 2 TOYOTA. Landcruiser (toy- YOUR WEBSITE for $149 Manuel Antonio. otona) 1998. 4 dr, auto, full, Incl. 5 pages (index, 3 links (506) 778-8105 2005, 9 meter CC Boat, Twin V8 gas. + contact form), domain www.pelicanhotelcr.com 115 HP Johnson, 4 stroke 2002 TDiesel auto. Exc. con- name & hosting for 1yr. 359- center consol. 849-2323, dition. Tel: 384-1211. 4488/ 225-0539. 661-0220 636-8980 (6:00-10:00pm) PUERTO COYOTE elegant Last Chance! [email protected] mainhouse, big pool, 2000 CHEVY S-10, pick up, charming guest house, fan- 38’ BOAT all fiber glasses 4 door, 4X4, turbo diesel, full tastic ocean view. 17.500 live aboard, very good cond. xts, great cond, $15,900. Today is the last day to reserve your advertising space in the 28-page full-color special Real m2. www.geocities.com/ Tel: 637-0015 Tel. 244-0484 Estate and Construction Supplement to be published on February 23. 1205 Languages prospero_pacific_paradise

LEARN SPANISH in Escazu. WWW.ACINAUTICO.COM 2000 TOYOTA diesel, Hi- Don’t miss the best time of year to reach potential buyers coming to Costa Rica for some sun SAN JUANILLO, Gte. El Lux, 4X4, pick-up, X-cab, full Tel: 384-2465, 289-4396, Sueño beach hotel, rest, and fun! www.ilerispanishschool.com Boats new - used. Boston xts, impeccable, low miles. Buddha bar music lounge! Whaler and Costa Boat - $21,900. 244-0484 200mts to beautiful beaches, repair. Phone 438-3629 Contact your TT Ad Rep today at 258-1558 or by e-mail at [email protected] to reserve SPANISH COURSE, 5hrs/ near Nosara & Ostional turtle wk $60/mo. Registration fee reserve. $40 dbl. (incl. 2000 TOYOTA Tacoma X-cab your space. $20, start day: Feb 26th. breakfast & tax). Visit WWW.RICABOATS.COM SR5, 4X4, pick-up, automat- San Jose, Tel: 258-0491/ www.sanjuanillo.com Boats for Sale over 40 sail ic, full xts, like new. $19,900. You’ll be glad you did. Tel: 682-8074 or 812-7416 & powerboats, view photos Tel. 244-0484

258-8609, or e-mail: LAST R.E. 2007 [email protected] for reservations. of the boats online. Tel 827-2362, 654-4063 2002 BMX X5, turbo diesel, SPANISH Save by learning VACATION Rental, dly/wk/ 1500 VEHICLES 4 doors, 4X4, automatic! mo, new 1bd (506)291-4575 $39,900 Warranty. more in less time! 1501 Autos Tel. 394-6348, 288-1691 [email protected] Tel. 244-0484 Exploring Costa Rica 2007 & 1206 Miscellaneous VACATION RENTAL, ‘96 LINCOLN Town Car. 2002 FORD Ranger Pick- the Restaurant Guide to Costa Rica Puntaleona, w/pool and a Limousine 10 pass. $21,500 up, 4 door, 4X4, turbo diesel, rancho, cbl. TV. 249-2017 OBO 855-9173 or 391-2844 full xts, real nice. $22,900. BILINGUAL HOUSE Two great guides published by The Tico Times, Tel. 244-0484 Central America’s Leading English-Language Newspaper Watchers. Have confidence 2001 LUHRS 36’ convert. your home is secure main- 1307 Guides Cats 3216, 1350 hrs. 8kw 2003 TURBO diesel Toyota, tained and clean while you gen. Tel: (506) 257-4242 4-Runner, 4X4, seats 7, full The most complete are absent. Professional ANYWHERE, in Costa Rica ext. 410. (506) 272-4543 xts, low miles. $28,500. Costa Rica’s first service & staff. transportation guide and Tel. 244-0484 guide to Costa and only restaurant Tel: 282-3300 / 870-0742. driver. 15 pass diesel van flu- 94 MAZDA Navajo SUV, Rica. guide. Bilingual ent eng. Call for price... auto. a/c. 2wd. full extras. Compiled by the (Spanish and 394-3934/ 588-1475. 2006 MAHINDRA Bolero. $4,250. 219-0194 Only 7,000 km Emer. Green writers and English) guide WW2 BUFFS! reloc. perf. cond. Manual written by Eliot “English Girl, German Boy” photographers of CAR DRIVER. Tour guide. turbo diesel, full effiec. Dual Greenspan, the World War II from Both 98’ RANGE Rover, full ext. The Tico Times. 343-0148 $17k. 878-0202 or Email: cab w/bed. Perfect for C.R. author of the Sides”. Personal war experi- terrain. Contact. Kim [email protected] [email protected] Features 122 Frommer’s Guide to ences in England & Germany. (540)463-4652 US l Costa Rica. Includes [email protected] photos and www.mimosa.co.cr more than 30 more than 450 www.amazon.com AUDI 03 A4 all wheel dr. restaurants MORAL (Quatro) v6 3000cc, 220hp. Telfax 506-494-5868 91 MONTERO 4X4, auto up-to-date maps. and 15 maps from 45km. one owner. $40k. 432 full-color Honest, fully bilingual lady 204-2040.gocher1@hot- loaded, new tires, CD, 4 around the door, alarm, CR tags, AC, offers her services for mail.com pages country. A 1209 Repair well maint. $4800. complement to any errands, guide, companion [email protected] for just $13.95. for elderly people, etc. Fax Guide to Costa Rica CHEVY BLAZER 4X4, per- COMPUTER troubles? 297-1352, tel. 381-4160 for just $9.95. fect, leather, auto, only 45K Call the P.C. Guy. Your place [email protected] 91 TOYOTA LandCruiser or ours. Call Pat at 289-8638 miles, best looking in CR. 86 turbo 4x4, full factory or 384-5636 Range Rover, lifted, CD, 4X4, options, clean inside & out, PANAMANIAN Male living awesome truck. 92 plus CD stereo: custu, steel in C.R offers his services to Landcruiser SUV, only 42K bumpers, extra large roof To purchase either of these guides: rack with ladder, snorkel duel LIC. ELECTRICIAN & foreigners as tour guides & miles, auto, 4X4, leather. Call Phone Orders: 011 506 258 1558 239-5970 we buy cars! batteries removable carrier handyman. Paints and Span. teacher. Latin music for large ice chest; heat Available on www.amazon.com, www.bn.com remodels small projects. Free dance classes incl. for ladies. caesarwilliam123@yahoo. reflectives tint tow htches estimate. English: 506- Call. 349-3784 com (stock changes daily call front & rear 26mpg and www.ticotimes.net 874-7669 Span. 375-3104 email: [email protected] now!) 670-1538/371-1632. TRAVEL PUBLISHERS PERIODICO 07 THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007 | CROSSWORD & WEATHER REPORT | 23

CROSSWORD #384

ACROSS 65 Espouse 40 English architect Jones 1 Swagger 66 Faction 41 Striped quadruped 6 Blemish 67 Billy or Nanny 44 Voted in 10 “A Farewell to __” 68 Succinct 46 Wood nymphs 14 “Missing You” singer 69 Top 48 “What are we waiting John 70 Endorse for?” 15 Cowardly Lion actor 71 Out of line 50 Correction section 16 Betty of cartoons 51 Discountenance 17 Relevant, to lawyers DOWN 52 Danny DeVito’s “Taxi” 18 Gun shop purchase 1 Med lab specimen role 19 Avis precursor 2 Go in up to the ankles 53 “Wonder Woman” star 20 Ring holder 3 Affectation Carter 22 Marred 4 Westerner’s hat 55 Unoccupied 24 Watch word 5 Sewing machine attach- 57 Captured 26 Small pool ment 59 Bottle stopper 27 Provide 6 Draw a __ 60 Church recess 30 Surrounded by 7 Hit 61 Fret 32 Filled pastry 8 Some resistance 64 Highly rated 33 Poetic Pound 9 Too much, musically –Michael Curl 35 Basket for jai alai 10 Shorten 39 __ Lingus 11 Author Dahl 40 Adore 12 Type of mushroom SOLUTION #383 42 Sounds of surprise 13 Gardener’s imple- 43 Japanese noodle dish ment 45 It’s in vein 21 Helped 46 Cape of Good Hope 23 Measure of preven- explorer tion 47 Shade of purple 25 Gunwale attachment 49 “God Bless America” 27 Way, way off songwriter 28 Tiny bloodsucker 51 Claim 29 Raise crops 54 Irish county 31 Female servant 56 Embargo 34 “Germinal” author 58 Latin rhythm instruments 36 Growing medium 62 Polly, to Tom 37 Bangkok resident 63 Cleansing agent 38 Org. Subscription Order

Inside Costa Rica PDF Online Edition Name Six months US$25 One month US$8 Six months US$33 Address One year US$48* (payable in colones at cur- City State Apdo. 4632-1000 | San José, Costa Rica rent exchange rate) Three months US$21 One Year US$48* Country ZIP/Postal Code (Home delivery in the San Jose metropolitan area Tel.: (506) 258-1558 | Fax. (506) 233-6378 or by mail to the provinces) Daily News Electronic Edition Tel.: Fax: One month US$5 Six months US$30 E-mail: U.S. Residents send mail to: Outside Costa Rica (U.S. Only) Three months US$15 One Year US$60 Credit Card Payment Trial subscription - Six months US$34 The Tico Times SJO 717 Card Holder Name One year US$65* This subscription is AMEX - DISCOVER - MC - VISA Exp. Date P.O. Box 025331 Canada and Western Hemisphere New Renewal (check one) Miami, Fl. 33102-5331 Trial subscription - Six months US$50 Credit Card Number One year US$96* My check for, is enclosed. Signature: (Canadian subscribers: please send only checks on U.S. This is a gift. Please include gift card to read: E-mail: [email protected] Elsewhere banks) Europe and Middle East US$96 per year* *Includes a free copy of The Tico Times annual Guide Africa and Asia Pacific US$139 per year* to Costa Rica. (Please allow two weeks for delivery) 24 | NEWS | THE TICO TIMES – February 9, 2007