The Howler
Volume 18, No. 12 Issue No. 206
December 2013 Founded 1996
TAMARINDO COSTA RICA www.howlermag.com THE HOWLER Ced. Juridica: 3-101-331333
FEATURES
Publisher, editor and production David Mills
Situated right on the beach in Potrero Bay, Beach House serves plentiful dishes of seafood and meats.
dmills@racsa.co.cr Tel: 2-653-0545
14 Around Town
Openings, closings, parties, music. The Gold Coast has it all, and bar-hoppin’ David is in the groove.
CONTRIBUTORS
Howler • Mono Congo
JEANNE CALLAHAN JESSE BISHOP MARY BYERLY ROBERT AUGUST KAY DODGE SUSAN SMITH
ELLEN ZOE GOLDEN TONY OREZ TOM PEIFER JEFFREY WHITLOW MONICA RIASCOS BARBARA DEPPE
Deadline for January: December 15 Howler advertising
The Howler offers a wide range of advertising sizes and formats to suit all needs. Contact David Mills • dmills@racsa.co.cr
Advertising rates & sizes Size Bus Card 1/8 1/4 Banner 1/2 Full
Dimensions (cms) Width Height 6.4 9.4 9.4 19.2 9.4 19.2 19.2
x x x x x
4.00 6.15 12.70 6.15 25.80 12.70 25.80
8 Dining Out
Price $ 30 100 140
15 Surf Report
Mango Surf Shop presents Billabong Festival of Surf 2013; Noe Mar McGonagle wins ALAS Surfing Championship.
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What’s Developing?
On a hilltop overlooking the Pacific is Punta Playa Vistas, with ocean view homesites and luxury condominiums.
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Profile - Gecko Architecture
With fifteen years of design and construction in Guanacaste, Olivier von der Weid offers every aspect of architectural from the ground up.
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Surviving Costa Rica
“A Day from Hell” is our columnist’s description of the morass of beaurocracy needed to renew his driver’s license (and how to avoid it).
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Favorite Things
The star-filled night sky, Guanacaste humour and a garden full of thriving vegetables is our columnist’s recipe for happiness.
230 400
Discounts For 6 months, paid in advance, one month is deducted. For 12 months, paid in advance, two months are deducted. Ads must be submitted on CD or e-mail attachment, JPG or PDF format at 266 dpi, at the appropriate size (above).
DEPARTMENTS 10 Book Review
37 Poetry by Diana Renee
12 August Odysseys
38 December Forecasts
24 Hallowe’en Gallery
40 Yoga
33 Doctor’s Orders
44 Sun & Moon
35 Dharma Corner
44 Rain Gauge
All comments, articles and advertising in this publication are the opinion of their authors, and do not reflect the opinion of Howler Management.
www.tamarindobeach.net
www.tamarindohomepage.com
Cover Caption: Gecko Architecture of Nosara Cover Photo: James Rees • surfingnosara.com Cover Design: David Mills
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elcome to the December Howler with the very popular annual Hallowe’en Spread. We applaud the imagination and effort that went into Tamarindo’s big night, especially the winners at the Pasatiempo party – Jesse Bishop’s terrific rendering of Robert E. Lee and Kata Kis in a glorious gold creation.
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We are now into the long-awaited High Season and, if the increase in our pages is any indication, it should be a prosperous one for most of us. Many new businesses are opening. Cabinas and hotels tell me of bookings way in advance; same for airline flights. Even columnist Tom Peifer has written an up-beat article this month, so things look good. The rains have stopped, and the langostas have started. These are giant grasshoppers, the “locusts” of Biblical fame and, while they may be scary as hell when they roar overhead in a restaurant, they are harmless. They are also very pretty in green, red and purple raiment – if you take the trouble to get up close.
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The Howler is known and respected for, among other qualities, its punctuality. No other publication hits the street on the advertised date. The main reason for this should be very obvious to its readers and advertisers, that I adhere to my deadline. Please don’t send me something on the 18th and then bitch or refuse to pay because your ad or article didn’t appear in the magazine. I run my business professionally; why don’t you?
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The Howler now has a presence in the Nosara-Guiones-Ostional-Marbella coastal area. Thanks to Gecko Architecture for our December cover and the article inside. We invite content – articles and ads – from that southern zone, as we link up the Gold Coast in anticipation of the Ruta del Sol. Comet Ison may be visible in the early morning, just before sunrise in the south-east, in the early days of December. The Howler wishes all its readers, advertisers and contributors a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Enjoy the holidays and be safe.
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e took a drive to Potrero Beach to check out the newly-opened Beach House, located next to the new marina. As its name implies, the restaurant is right on the beach with fishing and sailing boats as a backdrop. Maureen Thompson owned the Subway franchise in Canada since 1965, with an eventual inventory of 235 stores. Five years ago she retired to Costa Rica, but couldn’t handle retirement so, having always wanted a beach restaurant, she opened this one. Beach House is a beach bar serving comfort food – large portions, many items battered and deep-fried. A “sandy’wich” menu offers chicken, fish, turkey club, Western, beef dip, Monte Cristo, grilled cheese and pulled pork. Starters include homemade pretzel knots; cheese fries; frings (fries & onion rings); smoked mahi spread; chips and salsa. We opened with fried battered broccoli and onion rings. The latter comes free if you have a copy of the November Howler. Meals in a basket include chicken fingers; fish fingers; we had an order of battered shrimp and one of fish and chips. The dinner menu offers mahi-mahi; Hawaiian chicken; steak salad; scampi. I ordered the tender and juicy rib-eye, served with fresh mixed veggies. Desserts are: key lime pie; brownie sundae; pineapple pie; and ice cream volcano, delicious and sinful. A new menu is being introduced with shrimp salad roll; meatball sub; Vietnamese spring rolls; oriental chicken salad; shrimp pasta; and seared tuna. Beach House is ideal for a day out at the bay, with plentiful platters. There is also a kids’ menu. Located 800 meters north of Banco Nacional, it is open every day from 11 a.m., but will soon open weekends at 8 for breakfast. All credit cards are accepted. Tel: 2654-6203.
Book Review Nature Unbound in Costa Rica
Tony Orez
jaimepeligro.tamarindohomepage.com The good people at Ojala Publishing have your invitation waiting for you, in the form of their new book, “Fronteras Naturales”, or “Nature Unbound”, a collaborative project by photographers Luciano Capelli, Juan José & Sergio Pucci, with underwater images provided by Diego Mejias and José Manzilla. The open invitation comes from the book’s writer, Yazmin Ross, as a request for the reader to “empathize with the world and protect its fragile equilibrium”. The subject matter is the National Parks of Costa Rica, beginning with an introduction and brief history of the country’s parks and reserves, from their founding fifty years ago to the current effort to keep these “ecosystems as unchanged as possible so that future generations may appreciate them without having to having to resort to photographs”. Yazmin has a way with words. The project is a team contribution. Juan José Pucci, for example, is a Costa Rican physician who travels to different national parks on the weekends, photographing landscapes and wildlife that interest him. His brother Sergio is the author of two books: “Guanacaste” and “Costa Rica Pura Vida” as well as freelancing throughout the country. Diego Mejias is also a filmmaker and José Manzilla is a dive instructor; both live in Playas del Coco. Mauricio Valverde is a retired pilot who manages Private Reserve and has a niche for photographing insects and fungi. Johana Murillo is an interesting person. An amateur birdwatcher, she is Costa Rican who travels her country photographing rare species. And Fabio Olmos is a Brazilian biologist who, while visiting Costa Rica, managed to capture pictures of the hard-to-locate Tody Motmot bird. Together, this group of photographers provided more than three hundred spectacular shots of landscapes, flora and fauna, rare birds and insects, reptilian and animal life. The book is divided into seven chapters, beginning with the history (A Half Century of Conservation) and the Dry Forest (including Santa Rosa and Rincón de la Vieja) and ending with Isla del Coco. Yazmin told me that sectioning the middle part of the book was a difficult task but I think she and Luciano did a commendable job regionalizing the rest of the parks: The Wetland Routes (Palo Verde, Las Baulas, Ostional and Cabo Blanco); The Cloud Forest Route (Monteverde and Volcanoes Arenal and Tenorio); The Fumaroles Route (Volcanoes Turrialba, Guayabo, Poas and Braulio Carrillo); The Rainforest Route (Tortuguera and Cahuita) and The Scarlet Macaw Route (Carara, Manuel Antonio, Chirripo and Corcovado). There is a wonderful map in the beginning of the book outlying each of these zones but also revealing some gaps between, major concerns for conservationists, since it turns them to islands, or links in an incomplete chain. It is an unbroken chain that is essential to the preservation of species. The photos are a compilation of stunning, breath-taking images from the air, the ground and in the water. The book also acknowledges the under (continued next page)
Book Review Fronteras Naturales de Costa Rica jaimepeligro.tamarindohomepage.com
Tony Orez (from page 10)
appreciated work of MarViva, for their years of documenting the marine life in Corcovado and Isla de Coco. The film crews used gyrocopters to become sky-bound but still close enough to Earth to capture intimate images, a precarious situation that demonstrates the dedication that drives this epic book. When the team members first heard of the latest major eruption in Turrialba, their immediate reaction was to go there immediately, to record and capture information and photographs, some of which are in this new book. The reader gets to twenty-two National Parks and Protected Areas, to witness their diversity. And the incredible photos, along with Yazmin’s writing, takes you there, to the time of day and season, the sights, sounds and smells, the traditions, local people and history and, most importantly, why they are all essential components in the future of ecology. It is really the first book to take on this depth and magnitude. The production is first class on this two hundred seventy-six page, hardbound edition, printed in Spanish and English, side by side. The observational verbiage: describing the volcano Poas as “a giant hummingbird’s nest, filled with water”, is poetic. And the plethora of information is quite easy to ingest. It was interesting to read that in Palo Verde, for example, there is a high fire danger with the dried cattails there, similar to the problems in Guanacaste with the jaragua grass. I enjoyed reading the references to David Janzen, the biologist who has concentrated on reforesting the Santa Rosa area in Guanacaste, studying the “genetic code bank” there, as chronicled in the book “Green Phoenix”. Janzen realized that if he spent his career studying insects, in thirty years there would be no forest for them to survive in. Instead he changed his concentration to the preservation and even reforestation of the area. “We are not the experts,” Yazmin informed me, “we are students, listening and learning. And then trying to pass it on.” She remarked to me about the advantage, the insight of recruiting and employing citizens from villas nearby the parks, and teaching them how to transition “from farmers to conservationists”. In the chapter about Braulio Carrillo, Alvaro Ugalde explains that the area was pieced together by purchasing small plots of jungle between the Hondura and Sarapiqui’ rivers “as the first biological corridor we created for birds, tapirs, coyotes and jaguars to pass through.” He further noted that, “Forty years ago, people were not in the least interested in coyotes, jaguars and snakes”. And this is precisely the change that has occurred: conservation and ecology has now progressed from awareness to positive actions. This benevolent crusade on the part of Ross and Capelli did not begin with this book, but with their first, independent collaboration, “Passion for the Caribbean” in 2003. It continued with Papaya Music, through albums like “Simbiosis” with pianist Manuel Obregon performing in the Monteverde Preserve, and via Yazmin’s project Pachanga Kids, producing bilingual books for young readers, with some of the books having ecological themes. And Luciano has filmed and produced a second “Simbiosis” DVD, as well as “Se Quema el Cielo”, a documentary about the fire dangers in Guanacaste, an area dear to the collective heart of Luciano Capelli and Yazmin Ross. Their book “Guanacaste: Rutas de Viajes” has become very popular with the public. Yazmin told me that they consider this new book “the sibling” of the Guanacaste book, the next chapter of their passion for the natural wonders of this country
August Odysseys
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Robert August kristenmattoxbrown@gmail.com
Follow Your Passion
fter realizing that pursuing a career as a dentist was not my calling and that I wanted to spend my life in the surfing world, I got a job as a salesman at Jacobs in Hermosa Beach. At the time Jacobs was the largest manufacturer of surfboards and the shop had good vibes. The guys shaping in the back were very good, among them Donald Takayama and Hap Jacobs. During the course of the day I would wander back there and watch them. I was just mesmerized watching them take a piece of foam and transform it into a surfboard. The shaping part of a surfboard is what gives the board its personality and style. I would just watch and watch and I really wanted to do it. But how do you learn? How do you start practicing on a blank? A piece of foam is expensive! You obviously are not going to be very good at the beginning. Being the salesman, I had an idea of what I could sell: a belly board, which was before the boogie board. My idea was to approach Hap Jacobs and tell him that I would make these boards and then I could sell them. He wouldn’t have to pay me until I sold the boards. After an OK from Jacobs, I then ordered reject blanks and cut them in half. Each blank was 10ft long and after cutting it in half, one end was super thick and the other end super thin. It was good practice because I really had to create something out of this irregular piece of foam. It was a long process to reshape this piece of foam. From start to finish, I used the power planer (which we still use today), so spending all this time I really learned the tools for shaping. The boards had nice professional glass jobs on them with a fin. Being the salesman, as soon as a kid walked in the door with his parents, I would walk them straight over and show them these belly boards. Soon after getting experience shaping belly boards, one of the shapers in the back decided to move to Australia as there was a void in shaping production there. All the good boards were coming out of California back then. I just begged and begged Hap to give me a chance. I would get up at daylight and shape and shape until the store opened at noon. It took me all day to make one board because Jacobs was picky and it had to be perfect. Whatever I didn’t finish I would go back to finish after the store closed. I loved it. The work was very physical and there was lots of dust and noise. I got to where I could shape pretty good and I then stopped being a salesman. I soon was shaping 2-3 boards a day and getting paid $11 a board. That does not sound like much, but gas was twenty cents a gallon and I was paying $50 a month in rent in Hermosa Beach. As the years went by I got pretty good shaping and I had good visibility from the “The Endless Summer”, so I moved back to Huntington Beach and opened a retail store on Main Street using my name. Flash forward to today and I still enjoy the heck out of it. I now am shaping a couple of boards here and there at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp and getting great glass work from Juan Diego. Every time I shape a board I try my best to make what the surfer wants. It is still dusty and noisy, but I love it.
dmills@racsa.co.cr
Costa Rica hosts Mundial Femenina 2014
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ith all the publicity about the World Cup in Brazil, another World Cup tournament may be overlooked. But for Costa Ricans it is an important one because this is the host country. The 2014 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Costa Rica between March 15 and April 5, 2014. The four host cities will be Alajuela, Liberia, San José and Tibas. Six divisions will compete for the tournament: AFC – Japan, North Korea and China will represent Asia. CAF – African qualifiers played the first round August-September (Zambia, South Sudan), and will play the second round November 2013, to send three teams. Nigeria is already qualified. UEFA – The top three teams, determined at the European Under-17 Championship between November 26 and December 8, will go to Costa Rica. CONCACAF – Canada and Mexico have qualified for their trip to Costa Rica. The third position will be taken by Costa Rica, which qualifies automatically as host country. OFC – New Zealand will represent Oceania. CONMEBOL – Three teams, Venezuela, Colombia and Paraguay will represent South America at the Mundial Femenina. THE TOURNAMENT Group games will be held from March 15 to 23; quarter-finals take place March 27; semi-finals March 31; Championship and third place games April 5. Look for the complete schedule in the March Howler.
AROUND TOWN For years El Coconut Fine Dining in Tamarindo has been the place to have your gathering and dinners. It is now also opening for lunch! New opening hours are from 10-10. Do come in and try their wood BBQ, authentic menu and much more. Live music with Luis on the sax every Friday at 7 p.m. El Coconut Beach Club in Potrero is proud to enter yet another season! They stay faithful to the pool, beach, bocce ball, etc. being open for all – and, unlike many beach clubs, there is no cover charge! Opening hours are the same as always, 11-10 pm, with Live Music every Sunday! Do try them out for a day of pure relaxation and pleasure! Seabird Sailing is the premier 5-star catamaran sailing adventure in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Come sail, snorkel and fish the Pacific Gold Coast aboard our all-inclusive vessel. Relax in the hands of our professional crew and enjoy blended drinks and fajitas with an above and below water photographer on board. Call 8381-1060 or book at Nibbana in Tamarindo. See ad page 9. Longboards BBQ has reopened after a huge renovation, now twice its previous area and all new. But serving the same delicious authentic smoked BBQ sandwiches and dinners. Tel: 2653-0027. See ad page 22. For a beautiful and elegant Wedding Experience call Tierra Magnifica, on a mountaintop in Nosara. See ad page 27. Mangia alla Italiana, at That’s Amore, outside Aqua Disco in Tamarindo. Italian-owned and operated, overlooking the beach. See ad page 22. Condos with an incredible view at Flamingo Towers, from $295,000. See ad on page 2. For all your insurance needs – health, car, home, etc, call AllInsuranceCR at 2653-4300. See ad on page 7. Solar Costa Rica has all the answers to your questions about free electric energy! See their ad on page 9. Bar Pacifico is open seven nights a week in Tamarindo Circle, for fun food, music and drink. See ad page 9. Sandy’s Pura Vida Bar & Grill is now open next door to Tamarindo Gym from 4 to midnight. See ad page 37. For that nature experience – parrots, monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas – take a kayak trip up Tamarindo estuary with Estero Verde Tours. See the ad page 31. For apartment rental – by day, week or month – see Casa Leontine in Playa Grande. See ad page 31.
More Around Town on page 31
Surf Report Ellen Zoe Golden ellenzoe@aol.com
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ike high tide, the Circuito Nacional de Surf comes along like clockwork. In its 14th year, this countrywide surf event is the most important activity for competitive surfers because the rankings determine the Costa Rica national surf teams for international competition in the International Surfing Association (ISA) contests. It is also a fertile training group that prepares athletes for the professional circuits such as the Asociación Latinoamericana de Surfistas Profesionales (ALAS) Latin Tour, and the Association of Professional Surfers (ASP) world qualifying tour. Here are the dates for 2013-14: December 14 and 15 January 25 and 26 February 15 and 16 March 15 and 16 April 26 and 27 May 17 and 18 June 14 and 15 July 25, 26 and 27
It’s a big win for Noe Mar McGonagle (photo), who was able to capture the ALAS Junior championship title for the whole year after winning yet another First Place trophy in that category. This one was at Las Peñitas – Leon - in Nicaragua, November 7 to 9. There was also reason for Jason Torres to celebrate, as his 2nd place finish in Open division of the same contest earned him the final #2 spot in the ALAS Open rankings. Big ups to Anthony Flores who also became the Longboard champion. Newcomer Danielle Ciminero was the ALAS Women’s champion. All of these placements were the highest Costa Rican surfers have earned since the beginning of the Latin Pro circuit.
Bejuco, Parrita Puerto Viejo, Limón Nosara Dominical Santa Teresa Jacó Esterillos Oeste Hermosa de Jacó (Gran Finals)
Remember, the ones to beat this coming year are current national champions Jair Perez and Lisbeth Vindas, both of Jacó. November was a busy month for Costa Rican surfers, who had options to participate in events both here in the country and internationally. It all started with the 25th anniversary of Mango Surf Shop, one of the sport’s leading retailers in Costa Rica. To celebrate the occasion, they presented the Billabong Festival de Surf 2013 presented by Sanuk on November 9 and 10 in Jacó. The event included a concert by Donavon Frankenreiter and Ojo de Buey. Winners of the Men’s Open split $5,000 while other top placers received merchandise from Mango Surf Shop. Luis Vindas, one of the most consistent pros in this country, won the Open. Our Tamarindo boy, Dean Vandewalle (photo, page 34) won the Groms (and in doing so won every heat that day). The following week, Andrea Díaz, of Waves Costa Rica at the Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas, and Chelsea Lisaius of Tide Academy, kicked off the Circuito Guanacasteco de Surf Creatures 2013-14, presented by Reserva Conchal with two days of competition in Tamarindo. These dates will be followed by another visit to Tamarindo on December 7 and 8, Avellanas January 18 and 19, Marbella February 8 and 9, and then locations to be determined March 8 and 9, April 12 and 13, and May 10 and 11 in Playa Negra. The entire slew of dates will benefit Surf for Youth. Some of the sponsors of the Guanacaste include Pangas Beach Club, Las Mareas de el Tesoro, Lola’s, Witch’s Rock Surf Camp, Tiki Hut, Condominios Del Sol at Marbella, Aqua Pipa T’s, Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas, Casa Vida, Tuanix, John’s Pick’s, Kelly’s Surf Shop, La Paz School, Country Day School, and Cepia.
The ALAS road leading to Nicaragua went through Chile first and it was after that date that Noe was assured his Junior title. He performed more than admirably in the Reef Classic Latin Pro Chile in Punta de Lobos, where he surfed to win both the Open and Junior First Place positions. You may remember the last Tico to score a double win like this was Anthony Fillingim at the Reef Classic Mexico last June in El Camaron – Mazatlan. “Actually my goal was to come to this event and fight for the ALAS Junior title,” he said at the time. “I could not imagine carrying the Open and Junior. Thank God I did and I am very happy to earn Costa Rica this historic victory. I’m so happy. In Mexico, Anthony won in two categories and he was my inspiration because I saw it could be done. Today I did it myself. I will continue the tour, traveling to Nicaragua and climbing in the Open rankings.” All throughout the ALAS, McGonagle displayed impressive physical condition which helped him surf powerfully and aggressively, accomplishing risky maneuvers that were scored high by the judges. His finish in the ALAS Open, was #7, with Anthony Fillingim at #6. Our boy Carlos Muñoz, as of this writing, was at the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in Hawaii. This is an invitation-only event, where only the Top 100 on the ASP Men’s ranking are asked to compete against each other. For full results, go to http://vanstriplecrownofsurfing.com/reefhawaiianpro2013/live (continued page 34)
What’s Developing? Project Description Punta Playa Vistas is a luxury gated community offering the highest quality eco-lifestyle combined with amenities and a fabulous location close to pristine beaches and a short drive to both Tamarindo and Flamingo towns. Built on 25 acres nestled in a tropical hillside setting, providing sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, it is only a short stroll to the white sandy beach of Pirate’s Beach less than 2/10 of a mile, and a short drive to Playa Conchal. If you are looking for a top-quality development that is set in nature, offers stunning ocean views, has started construction and is close to a quiet, beautiful beach but yet still close to nearby towns and amenities, then you should visit Punta Playa Vistas. The project has commenced construction where it has completed and sold out its first building of six ocean view condominiums and is getting ready to break ground on its next building of eight Ocean View Condominiums. They have also sold several ocean view lots with one owner who has completed their luxury Ocean View home. They are expecting to break ground on a second luxury ocean view home in early 2014. The development offers two phases of Ocean View Condominiums totaling 48 units. The condominiums are being built with green, energy-efficient technology utilizing a steel-frame construction process. They have completed amenities for the Phase One Condominiums consisting of a beautiful pool, children’s playground, rancho-style clubhouse with bathroom and changing room. They have plans for two more pools and a clubhouse with fitness room. There is a registered Home Owners Association in place and the project is approved under the Horizontal Condominiums. The project boasts North American quality infrastructure including: roads; electronic gated entrance with guardhouse; drinking water system and sanitation piping with connections to all lots; electrical system in place throughout the development; 4 large water storage tanks providing storage capacity; registered wells; rainwater drainage system with retention basin. Punta Playa Vistas has two phases of Ocean Condominiums. Each phase consists of 24 condominiums. All the Phase One condominiums have 2 bedroom, 2 bath with wrap-around terraces for a total living area of 1,400 sq. ft. (130m2). Prices start at $179,000.
david mills The Phase Two Condominiums are located higher up on the development, offering spectacular ocean views and gorgeous sunsets. These condominiums have 2 bedrooms and 2 baths where the end units have wrap-around terraces and are 1,375 sq. ft. in size. The development has pre-sold 6 of the 8 units in the first building in Phase Two and is breaking ground on it in early 2014. Prices start in the low $200,000s. Ocean View Lots Punta Playa Vistas has six remaining Ocean View lots that offer breathtaking views, privacy and a perfect site for a luxury custom home. Owners can choose to design their own dream vacation or retirement home or they can choose from one of our three model home designs which have been designed specifically for our ocean view lots. We offer a turn-key construction process including all phases from the preliminary planning, permitting, designing, and building. Lot prices start at $109,000. Mango Walk Section The development recently released its Mango Walk section where they are offering 21 lots with an average size of 500m2 in a tropical setting, starting at only $49,999. It is hard to find lots located within a planned community, with amenities in place, located walking distance to the beach at this price, especially where the developer is offering only 50% down at closing with the balance financed interest-free for five years. Lots can be reserved with only $1,500 where you can select the lot of your choice. There are two model home designs to choose from with 3-bedroom 2-baths for your Mango Walk lot, with home prices starting in the $130,000s. Development Parcel Punta Playa Vistas also has a development parcel available that is a rare find in the Tamarindo Real Estate area which is perfect for a boutique hotel or subdevelopment of condominiums. This development parcel measures 12,164m2 or a little over 3 acres and has direct ocean views overlooking Pirate’s Beach. It has environmental approval and water & electrical hookups to begin construction. Inquire for additional information. Contact: www.puntaplayavistas.com sales@puntaplayavistas.com CR Office (506) 8349-2025 U.S. (732) 962-6525
The Firm Gecko Architecture is led by Olivier von der Weid, who has over fifteen years of experience in a wide range of residential and commercial building types in the Southern and coastal part of Guanacaste. Olivier von der Weid qualified as an architect from Lausanne University in Switzerland in 1990. For 5 years he worked as a project planning teacher in the architecture faculty of the Lausanne University, and operated his own architecture studio in Vevey, Switzerland. He spent one year in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he specialised in tropical architecture, working with the two most famous architects of Brazil, Oscar Niemeyer and Paolo Mendez da Rocha. In 1995 Olivier von der Weid moved to Nosara, Costa Rica, opening his architecture studio and managing W & W Construcciones S.A., his building and contracting company. In 2002, after having designed and built over 15 projects in the region of Nosara, Olivier sold his successful contracting company in order to devote his time solely to architectural work as well as project consulting. He now runs Gecko Architecture, designing homes and commercial buildings, advising clients about real estate, development, building and architecture. Nineteen years of living as a year-round resident of Nosara, of which seven working as a general contractor, as well as his architectural skills and expertise allow Olivier to have a full understanding of all the phases of a project, from the purchase of the land, development, site preparation, design, administrative steps and permits, construction and materials, interior design, landscaping to full completion of the project. More recently his practice has been engaged to undertake several ecofriendly and alternative designs. He is also particularly interested in the integrated relationship between plants and buildings. He encourages all his clients to appropriately consider incorporating environmentally preferable choices into the design and the construction. Olivier von der Weid speaks French, English, Spanish and German fluently. Services Architectural design • Construction blue-prints, details and specifications • Exterior and interior three-dimensional perspectives • All building permits • Precise estimate of building costs • Construction supervision • Real estate, architecture and building consultation • Land development. Gecko Architecture provides appropriate and cost-effective building solutions. Architectural design and construction specialists collaborate to achieve best value for the owner’s specific project objectives. The college of architects of Costa Rica must first approve all constructions in order to receive the mandatory building permits. Gecko Architecture helps you through all the administrative steps of your project.
Why choose Gecko Architecture? • Gecko Architecture will help you carefully plan your home project, taking account of all the details relevant to your needs and expectations as well as your ideas and suggestions. • Three dimensional perspectives of the project which show the exterior and the interior, as well as the sunlight’s influence throughout the day allow you to have a clear vision of the building during the design phase. This comprehensive approach assures results that meet or exceed client expectations and helps avoid costly changes and delays during the construction phase. • The location of a building has a direct impact on its performance. Gecko Architecture has a full understanding of all the natural and specific climatic conditions of this region of the world. The site is carefully studied, with its gradient, the underlying soil, the orientation and exposure to the sun, the rain and the winds. This study will determine the optimal location and orientation of the building, its final design and the most viable alternatives for construction materials. • Very special attention is given to achieve comfortable and functional living spaces, good lighting both natural and artificial, a logical and practical floor plan where no space is lost or to no purpose. No money is wasted on useless extra square feet. • Gecko Architecture focuses on aesthetic design, detailed finishing touches, interior decorating and well planned landscaping to create an original and elegant building. • Gecko Architecture is always close at hand to the building site, therefore allowing excellent coordination and communication between client, architect and builder and benefits of a good reputation and an excellent relationship with the best contracting companies in the area. • Gecko Architecture will help you find the most reliable contracting company, the most cost-effective and the most qualified and specialised to complete the project to your specifications. You will be able to follow up the construction with the architect, making sure the house is built exactly as planned. If you are absent, we regularly send digital pictures to show progress.
Olivier von der Weid Licensed Architect - CFIA
Nosara • Playa Guiones • Guanacaste Tel: 2682-0084 / 8821-5559 info@GeckoArchitecture.com www.GeckoArchitecture.com
Guanacaste Superstitions Part II
Kay T. Dodge & Esteban Peraza)
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ust another beautiful dawn on Finca Casagua - time for a second cup of Costa Rican coffee and another interesting conversation exploring the many superstitions of the local Guanacastecos. As noted in Part I, some are not so different from those found in other parts of the world, while others have their roots in the unique culture of Guanacaste, where witchcraft, religion and the natural environment conjure up an interesting mix of superstitions. Brujeria, or witchcraft, is alive and well in not only Guanacaste, but also throughout Costa Rica. Rich and poor alike seek out the brujas for advice and charms for all aspects of their lives, and surrounding this belief in witchcraft, many colorful superstitions have evolved. Some are involved in giving strength to the recipient, others are to influence love interests, while others can create problems for the person to whom the spell or charm is directed. For example, in the past, peones vied for who was the best worker on fincas, a fact noticed not only by the boss, but also local women. Young men had to prove their strength and ability to do the job to receive the salary of a hombre, or adult man. Orations and chants were directed not only to God, but to animals to be the best worker, and not to get tired or afraid. The horse had the ability to run without tiring, the oxen strength and the peones would ask them for the same powers (this was before the Ministry of Work was established). Superstitions and love go hand-in-hand in Guanacaste to gain the love of a woman; a man would climb a tall tree and collect a nest of one of the smallest canopy birds. He would then douse the nest with a strong perfume and carry it in his pocket to attract women. A woman smelling this charm would certainly fall in love. Another powerful charm is the powder derived from drying the penis of a mapache (raccoon) and placing the powder on the chair of a love interest. Women have their charms as well. Put a little of her monthly blood in the drink of a husband or love interest and she has the power to control him. It is said that the man will be ciego (blind) to her actions as well, and she can even cheat on him without repercussion. Many Ticos, when offered a cup of coffee or cold drink, will drink only with the left hand to counter the power and prevent a possible spell. Fighting is also controlled by many charms, and to provoke fights, say, at a dance, Guanacastecos would place the rattles from the rattle snake in the marimba or drums, to provoke a good fight. Don’t like your neighbors? The rattles can also be placed on the roof of a house, or buried in the yard, to cause family fighting.
(continued page 28
Photos by Yvona Kejnovska Matos Events David Mills
2013 26
Hallowe’en
Luxury Leisure Alliance comes to Tamarindo “Not a Timeshare Company” David Mills “We are not a timeshare company”. says Jaime Gomez, sales representative with Luxury Leisure Alliance at his Tamarindo office, “and we are not selling property. We sell the right-to-use contracts for higher-end, high-quality future vacations world-wide.” Luxury Leisure Alliance (LLA) is a 23-year-old Mexican company affiliated with Resort Condominiums International and other vacation companies such as J.W. Marriott and Hilton Hotels. The company buys contracts for vacations from ten to thirty years ahead, and resells them to prospective vacationers. “We guarantee that the future vacation will be protected from rising prices in the meantime.” LLA’s arrival in Tamarindo a few weeks ago caused a big stir – almost a panic - in the community, as they drove around the town in golf buggies talking to tourists. An anonymous e-mail circulated claiming that “this fraudulent company” was selling “fake” timeshares that aren’t even theirs, and within months will have “sucked Tamarindo dry.” The writer knew personally of over $500,000 that has been scammed from tourists in Tamarindo by these “major con artists”, and tells us that “OIJ has been made aware of this situation and are working with Interpol to stop these people”. In response, Gomez claims that “we have adhered strictly to the laws of Costa Rica and denies any scamming by his people. “All our books are open to view,” he says, “and I have meetings planned with local realtors to discuss their issues, and welcome any others who want to talk to me.” LLA claims to have about 100 units in Playas del Coco, their Costa Rica headquarters, and “we bring five to six thousand tourists a year to Coco,” continues Gomez. “We hope to acquire a base of units at Tamarindo hotels and will be pleased to direct tourists here. We are not a threat to Tamarindo realtors; if a prospect decides he would rather buy property here than future vacations, we will refer him to local realtors. We employ fifteen people in our sales, marketing and secretarial staff, and pay all the required taxes.” Jaime Gomez may be contacted at j_gomes@libero.it or 87530169. Their website is at www.luxuryleisurealliance.com. As in any business anywhere, prospective buyers are recommended to research the deal carefully and warned to be very wary of scams – caveat emptor.
Superstitions... (from page 22)
Although people here have always cherished pictures of family, in the past, many would never give a love interest a photo, for it may be use in witchcraft… you never know when love turns to hate. Munecos or dolls are often used as a part of charms by people who want power over someone. They use bits of hair or photos. When a man is drinking with his buddies at a bar, and he says he has to leave, friends will say, “the woman is shaking the muneco”. Men and women have cheated on each other from time eternal, but here in Guanacaste, it was even more common. The locals often talk about “poniendo cachos (putting on horns)” when your mate is cheating on your. If someone suggests you are a venado (deer), watch out; your special someone is cheating big time on you. In a popular song about cheating, the man’s horns are so big he can’t leave the house. Good news! There is a way to rid yourself of all the spells and brujeria. You must eat seven small hot chili congos for seven Fridays in a row. These common wild chilis will cure you (or kill you). Fortunately, if you survive, the remedy lasts for life. Perhaps now, with all the witchcraft in Guanacaste, you may not want anyone to visit you. There is a cure – simply put a broom bristle side up, against the inside of your front door. This will keep away visitors away, but who knows, you just might welcome a spell on you!
Casagua Horses The greatest variety of tours and riding experiences for all ages, featuring spectacular countryside, howler monkeys, colorful small towns and fun-filled fiestas. Cantina Tour - Nature Tour Fiesta & Tope Rental - Old Tempate Trail Tour Located near Portegolpe on the main road, opposite the Monkey Park, just 20 minutes from the beach.
Phone us at: 2-653-8041 • kaydodge@racsa.co.cr www.paintedponyguestranch.com The best horses on Guanacaste’s Gold Coast!
You take your life in your own hands, and what happens? A terrible thing: no one to blame. Erica Jong
Surf Trip Reviews
for when you leave paradise to go somewhere else
S
urfers from all over the world visit Guanacaste. It is understandable, we do live in paradise and we have great waves. But as a surfer and as someone who loves to travel, the desire to explore new surf spots will never cease. And why should it? Taking a surf trip to somewhere else always reminds me of why I live right here in Tamarindo. Recently I visited two spots I would consider to be polar opposites: Montauk, New York, and the Osa Peninsula. Both are great surf trip destinations for when you’re looking to take a vacation from your vacation life. Hopefully these reviews will encourage you to get out there and see something new. Montauk, New York Montauk is pretty cool. There are multiple sand-bottom spots with multiple peaks. Ditch Plains is the main spot; it’s a nice wave (mostly a left) that breaks on a rock shelf. It can get crowded. Ironically I ran into Tamarindo resident Jerry Hirsch as well as Jimmy Buffett of all people while I was checking the surf in the Ditch Plains parking lot. There are a few reef breaks somewhat hidden out by the lighthouse. Some of these spots can handle a larger swell and keep their shape even if the wind is howling onshore. New York City has millions of people, so when you get out to the tip of Long Island you really feel like you’ve escaped the craziness of the city. The beaches are beautiful, but the waves are intermittent and the water gets freezing in the winter months. Hotels and restaurants can be a little pricey and rental surfboards are hard to find. Try couch surfing, and make sure to stop by the Montauk Brewing Company! Cabo Matapalo, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Talk about being remote! There are no restaurants, no stores, and no bars. There are, however, epic waves. Choose from three right point breaks: Cabo Matapalo, Backwash, and Pan Dulce, all situated one after the other. With the Osa Peninsula being so exposed to swell, there are also plenty of other waves in the vicinity if you get bored. Cabo Matapalo is considered an advanced wave with plenty of open-ocean swell energy and a few exposed boulders on the inside just to keep things interesting. The swell maxed out at about double overhead but it could have handled even bigger. Backwash and Pan Dulce are better spots for the intermediate surfer. Matapalo is simply stunning; dense jungle all the way to the beach with hardly any footsteps in the sand. Wildlife is everywhere: scarlet macaws; toucans; all four species of monkeys found in Costa Rica; bright (and probably poisonous) frogs; turtles; whales; and plenty of jungle mammals outnumber the human population 100:1. There is no electricity in Matapalo so make sure to bring ice or arrange to use a propane freezer. If you want to get off the grid and enjoy mother nature, this is the place to go. Joe Walsh Witch’s Rock Surf Camp
A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. Winston Churchill
A time to give‌
Christmas is special, we give a gift to the people we care about. We all know some kids will not receive any gift or any special menu at Christmas. We all care about them, right? Let’s give!!! Choose a child or a couple of children from our list of children we have visited and we can assure you they live in extreme poverty in Guanacaste. You can either buy a gift for that child or we buy it for you ($20). You can also buy a food basket or we buy it for you ($40). Please contact Laetitia for more details: cepiacostarica@gmail.com or through CepiaCostaRica. The Christmas party at CEPIA will take place December 19th. You can choose to help out that day and meet the children. We can also send you their pictures. Thank You and Merry Christmas! www.cepiacostarica.org
AROUND TOWN
from page 14
Restaurant El Chef’O has had a name change and is now Laguna Lounge, at the French Bakery in Tamarindo. See ad page 19.
This business-card ad will reach thousands of readers along the Gold Coast of Costa Rica from Potrero to Guiones, and in Liberia & Santa Cruz at a cost of ¢15,000 ($30) For details, e-mail: dmills@racsa.co.cr
For all your general medical needs, contact Dr. Diego Herrera in PlazaConchal, Tamarindo. See his ad page 20. Collette’s has flowers, plants, party favours, sweets in Sunrise Plaza. See ad page 29. Next door is Monkey ‘n’ Croc, for sports and games needs. See ad page 29. Desarrollo Campero offers properties and lots opposite the gas station just outside Tamarindo. See ad page 20. In a town known for its nuts, F & B has the Best Nuts in Town. See their ad page 21. Planning to get married? Take the seven-session Marriage Course at Tamarindo Church. See ad page 26. Tortugas Restaurant in Brasilito has great seafood and awesome barbecued ribs - marinated in Jim Beam!! See ad page 45. Buying or selling property? Call Steve at 8841-6056, your Coldwell Banker partner. See ad page 28.
Barbara’s Pet Stories My little troublemaker
A
bout two weeks ago the drain from the toilet to the septic tank was blocked. During the repair work we discovered a complete toilet paper roll inside the drain…so my husband and I looked at each other, like: you did it?? Then again, a week ago, same thing: the toilet did not flush properly, but as now we knew what the problem could be, we knew where to look. And again, a roll of toilet paper inside in front of the entrance of the tube that leads into the septic tank…so how possible could a puppy or a cat be able to throw a toilet paper roll into the toilet? There was no other explanation, how this could have happened. To avoid more loss or better to say, to avoid more blockings, I now put the toilet paper rolls into a plastic container, which I placed under the sink in the bathroom. Then last night I went from the yard behind our house into the kitchen, bypassing the open door of the bathroom, I looked into the bathroom, and, if I had not seen it, I would not believe it: my raccoon opened the plastic container, took out a toilet paper roll, closed the lid from the container, opened the toilet lid and put the paper roll into the toilet. Now she jumped into the “water” and, with her legs, she was pushing the roll deeper into the drain pipe. When the roll was almost gone into the pipe, the raccoon closed the toilet lid, pushed the flush!! and ran out of the bathroom. I was standing there in the middle of the bathroom door, with my mouth open, and this little troublemaker pushed me aside while squeezing herself out between me and the door frame… barabara.s.animalrescuecenter@gmail.com
Doctor’s Orders Jeffrey Whitlow, M.D.
jwhitlow82159@gmail.com
T
Cancer II
his month we will continue our discussion on the available treatments for cancer, and the politics that surround those treatment options.
I highly recommend Dr. Ralph Moss’s book “The Cancer Industry” to anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer for the first time and is contemplating their treatment options, or for anyone who has a friend, family member or loved one who is facing a similar situation. Dr. Moss was an insider at one of the biggest cancer research institutions in the U.S., the Sloan-Kettering Center, and he certainly knows where the bodies are buried, as can be judged by even a cursory perusal of his hard-hitting critique. To summarize his research, experiences and findings, he believes that the “War on Cancer” cannot be won, no matter how much money we throw at it, for several reasons. One, he knows from his experience that the process used to grant money for research is profoundly biased against those who don’t follow the standard medical establishment line of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. There have been a few grants given to researchers who are looking into therapies that strengthen the immune system, but only if those treatments are, or have the potential to be, patentable. This is so because the same people who provide and/ or govern the grant money are executives in, or closely connected to, the pharmaceutical industry. They are certainly not going to aid and promote therapies that will undermine their profits. Dr. Moss goes into great detail in documenting these conflicts of interest. Two, in Dr. Moss’s learned opinion, too much time and money is spent on trying to find an etiological agent (cause) for cancer such as a virus or a bacteria. Not enough time and money is spent looking at dietary and chemical causation. Again, this is because the people in control of the board of Sloan-Kettering are industrialists. Time after time, whether it was with DDT, chlordane, asbestos, mercury, or uranium/radium, it has been documented that industry will conceal and obfuscate material facts that will hurt their bottom line or expose them to litigation from workers, consumers, or people who reside near and are thus affected by toxic outputs from factories, mines, and other industrial sites. A lengthy discussion of this phenomenon can be found in the book “Cancer Wars”, by Robert Proctor. Finally, Dr. Moss believes that the biggest impediment to our success in this “war” is the egos of the researchers themselves. He documents several instances where promising work by one researcher has been marginalized and discredited by other scientists, simply because of personal animus. As a scientist, I find this behavior to be particularly reprehensible. You would think that everyone would be working toward the same goal and would be happy for anyone who made any progress toward that goal, but Dr. Moss’s writings clearly show that professional jealousy is an extremely important factor in our continuing failure to slow the rising incidence of this dreaded “disease”. Next month we will continue this discussion. We will focus on the so-called “unconventional” therapies for cancer, and discuss their pros and cons in an objective manner.
Surf Report (from page 15)
Dean Vandewalle at Billabong Tracking Muñoz to Hawaii, he first completed another spectacular finish in the Pantin Classic Galicia Pro in Spain at the end of August. He made the Open finals—the first final outside of the Junior competitions—and came in 3rd place behind winner Steven Pierson of French Polynesia and 2nd place Billy Stairmand of New Zealand. With that placement, Muñoz went into Hawaii ranked a phenomenal #45 in the world, with only names above him like Spain’s Aritz Aranburu at #29, Australia’s Mick Fanning at #14, United States’ Kelly Slater at #8, and Australia’s Julian Wilson at #1. The International Surfing Association is proud to introduce a new surfing development program called Junior Surfing Camp, created by the Costa Rican Surfing Federation (FSC), focusing on elementary and high school students from under-developed coastal towns that are vulnerable to social risk in Costa Rica. The lessons are aimed at growing the sport around the country, focusing on the underprivileged children who might not have the opportunity or means to learn and enjoy surfing. All of the instructors participating in this program are certified by the International Surfing Association (ISA), in order to convey the proper knowledge about technique and ocean safety to these children. In its first outing, over one hundred children from the Limón area surfed for the first time in Playa Cieneguita on the Caribbean coast. They were instructed by surf professionals from schools all around Costa Rica, and the activity was co-presented by the Association of Surf and Skate Limonese (ALISUS) and Cieneguita Surf School. One of the instructors was local Martin Artavia, who has competed himself on the Circuito Nacional. He was pleased to help the youngsters learn to surf because, he said, the sport is a great diversion from the problems of the area, which include drugs and weapons. (continued page 41)
Dharma Corner
L
Sue Smith
A Retreat
ights twinkled from all over the valley and hillside as the thousand or so retreatants made their way to the Ocean of Peace Meditation Hall. It was the first day of the Deer Park Retreat with Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh. The crisp morning air was thick with silent anticipation of the five days to come. As the gong sounded the hour-long meditation began and, while there were so many people in the hall, you could have heard a pin drop. The collective energy of that many people meditating together was amazing. The sitting meditation was followed by a walking meditation up the mountain led by Thay (teacher) himself. It was a peaceful time to follow one’s breath and be aware of the body walking. As the sun came up, the beauty of the hills above Escondido was revealed and the colors of the landscape came alive. Walking meditation was followed by breakfast. All meals were taken in silence in order to enjoy the food to its fullest, being mindful of the tastes, textures and colors of the foods on the plate and being grateful for all that went into bringing the food to the table. All meals were vegan. Though there were so many people to be served things went like clockwork. People waited in lines in silence, smiling to each other and engaging in various means of non-verbal communication. At first it was awkward but after the first day it was nice; quiet enjoyment of the moment without obligation to make trite conversation. After breakfast there was work to be done...cleaning dishes, resetting the meditation hall, cleaning the general bathrooms, stuffing envelopes for the upcoming presentation in another city. Everyone was assigned to a group and all participated. Quiet talking was allowed after breakfast until lights out at 10pm, except at meals. Work time was followed by a Dharma talk given by Thay at 10:30am, everyone gathering at 10am. It was amazing to look around the meditation hall at all the people. People from foreign countries, people of all ages, color and lifestyle. Singles and couples of all kinds...heterosexual, gay and lesbian, mixed race. Everyone enjoying our Oneness. Lunch was followed by work or rest, depending on our group, and at 3:30pm there was Dharma discussion, where we met to discuss the morning’s Dharma talk and what it meant to us and our everyday lives. The groups became pretty tightly knit and there was some intense sharing. In this group of people it was easy to feel safe...people just listened with open minds, free of judgment. An evening presentation followed dinner. It was an amazing six days and I am still in awe of how smoothly things can go with a thousand strangers living together for that time. I believe it is a testimony to the peace and calm that prevails when we are truly mindful that we are ONE. It is possible!!
Namaste
Arbol de Angel Delights Kids at Christmas
T
ake a minute to look back at your memories of holiday seasons in the past. They are usually filled with happiness, warmth and love, delicious cookie recipes made only at this time of year and boxes wrapped in beautiful wrapping paper encasing a special gift.
Smiling Faces From Unexpected Gifts For Christmas
Now think about local families during the holiday season. The small wooden structures that we pass on a daily basis may be filled with children who do not receive even one present on Christmas morning. Forget about the presents, they may not even have food on the table to fill up their stomachs. Arbol de Angel, a Christmas Charity, wants to help these families. Arbol de Angel’s vision is to reach out to children and families in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, living in poverty, our hope not only to enhance their quality of life during the holiday season by providing food, clothing, household necessities, and toys, but additionally to aid in providing them with the tools, materials, and contacts to support them throughout the year in their continued education and outreach programs. Caralee Burton’s feelings of gratitude experienced upon arriving to Costa Rica and her then new-found favorite book, “The Quilt Maker’s Gift”, led her to search for a way to give back to the community her first Christmas here in 2009. When she couldn’t find the usual “Sub 4 Santa” so convenient and common in the states, coupled with the fact that giving away just toys would be grossly understating the needs of the impoverished families living amongst us, her family decided to take the project on themselves. With the extremely generous donations from family and friends back home, they were able to raise over $3,000 to provide food, clothes, and toys for families in need. In 2010 the project doubled in size and the joy they experienced from the project inspired them to make it official. Arbol de Angel has teamed up with CEPIA (http://www.cepiacostarica.org/) to find more families in need, and offer tax deductions. Arbol de Angel is glad to be a small part of giving back and sharing our blessings with those who are sharing their country with us. If you will be in the area during the holiday season you can help out with organizing donations and/or dropping them off to the families by contacting CEPIA. If you would like to make a donation go to our website at http:// angeltreecostarica.com. Thank you and Pura Vida!
School Supplies make a difference in a Child’s Education
Selected Poems from “Tell me about the telaraĂąaâ€? by Diana Renee
april nights are hotter than the fires in our blood nos tendemos en la cama como hermanos cada quien a su lado undressed waiting for our turns from the oscillating fan
take me back i want one more chance to say it take me back to the last kiss night half a lifetime away quiero poner mis dedos en tu cara para el rugido del viento
i was only a girl too young to say it imposible saber
regresemos a los gallos y los solococos to the last kiss at the first light i will curl my fingers in your hair and say it antes de que abres la puerta
Your Stars in December
Aries: 21 March - 20 April
Uranus, the great awakener, goes into direct motion on the 16th in your sign. This is good news for you and a nice aspect as the sun in Sag lifts your spirits and some stagnation in your life comes to an end. Get out and enjoy nature to rejuvenate your body as the next few months will bring in sudden changes and you need to be ready for them. The 11th and 12th are days of good fortune
Libra: 23 September - 23 October
Taurus: 21 April - 21 May
This month’s focus is still on money, assets, values and security. With Mars entering your sign on the 8th, you get energized to promote yourself in some new way. Things get a little unstable between the 23rd and 28th as Mars opposes Uranus, so be careful not to take risks at that time. The Venus Rx happens in your solar fourth house so you might use the energy to beautify or personalize your space. The 25th and 26th are days to relax and enjoy.
Gemini: 22 May - 21 June
With Saturn still in your sign, you are still feeling like there are too many things weighing you down, however, some recent problems should have straightened themselves out, leaving you more mentally free. The sun in Sag brings in a new cash flow opportunity of an unusual nature. Take care of your health between the 23rd and 28th as you could be a little accident-prone. Your best days are the 28th and 29th.
Cancer: 22 June - 22 July
This is a good month for some serious introspection about what direction you want your life to take in the new few years. Something needs to be redefined in your professional life so be prepared to release anything that hasn’t been fruitful. You are ready to have make some significant changes in your life, possibly including your residence. Good days for you are the 2nd, 3rd and 30th.
Issues regarding partnerships and career endeavors are your main focus this month. Being practical and professional will serve you well; stay out of any drama as there’s no upside to that right now for you. Take care of your health and be particularly attentive to your digestive system. This would be a good time to do a short cleanse of some sort. However, the 13th and 14th are days to enjoy life!
Scorpio: 24 October - 22 November
There’s a lot of energy surrounding money and work matters this month. You may be tempted to spend money you don’t have yet, so temper that impulse by sticking to a budget, or developing a budget! Health, work and a balanced routine are areas to focus on this month. Your social life also improves, which will lift your spirits! Good days to have fun are the 15th and 16th.
Sagittarius: 23 November - 21 December
This month’s energy is focused on your children, creative projects, fun activities and even love affairs! Don’t get too serious too soon, if someone does show up to court you. You are in the mood to partner with someone but forcing things to go too fast isn’t a good idea. Let this organically grow at its own pace. Good month to get some small house repairs down with Mars going through your solar fourth house. Have some fun on the 18th and 19th.
Capricorn: 22 December - 21 January
This month has a focus on family and children and you might possibly be entertaining a family gathering. Mars is energizing your house of communication so you will have contact with siblings or something going on in your neighborhood. The vibes are positive with your work environment too, though your intention is to have more fun than do actual work. Be generous with others on the 20th, 21st and 22nd.
With Mars in your solar eighth you have some rather serious concerns regarding wills, legacies, insurance, and taxes weighing heavy on your mind. This is a good month to have an expert work with you on these details. You are being a bit too serious, but with Saturn approaching the top of your chart, you want to have a solid plan together. Best days for you are the 6th and 7th.
Leo: 23 July - 23 August
Virgo: 24 August - 22 September
There’s considerable energy for you regarding communication, writing, and socializing. Time to make connections and enjoy doing it. Mars is still in your sign so that is a motivating factor; once you start doing something it generates more attraction for you. Relationships are pleasant but you are more focused on practicality than romance right now. Oh well…but do something wonderful on the 23rd and 24th.
by Jeanne Callahan jeannecallahan007@gmail.com
With Venus passing through your sign, you have the benefits of experiencing lots of pleasure, love and comfort now. This is a good time to get a little update in your look and wardrobe as next year signals some promising new avenues opening up with your professional life. Don’t shy away from a New Year’s Eve celebration as it’s one of your better days of the month. Do something fun on the 4th and 5th.
Aquarius: 22 January - 19 February
Pisces: 20 February - 20 March
With Jupiter Rx in your solar fifth house of creativity, children and fun, there’s potential for a pleasure trip that may be a return to a favorite place to visit. Take care between the 23rd and 28th as an opposition between Mars and Uranus makes the vibes volatile. With Neptune in your sign in the first house, you are vulnerable and a bit spacey right now. Spend New Year’s Eve with close friends. Good days are the 8th and 9th.
Namasté Visit Jeanne’s site at CelestialAdvisor.com
Now Begins the Study of Yoga Yoga Vacations
Y
ou love doing yoga, and it makes you feel great. And you are ready to take a vacation. Hmmmm, wouldn’t it be great to enhance your practice while on vacation? Maybe take a vacation that even helps you grow, while you get to experience somewhere new and interesting? Excellent idea! As you start to plan your next vacation, going on a yoga retreat or trip that includes daily yoga is a way to have a vacation that is good for your body, mind, and spirit! Searching on the internet, you will find that you can take a yoga vacation pretty much anywhere in the world you would like to go.
Second, consider the kind of vacation you want. Do you want to focus on your yoga practice or do you want lots of time to also explore the local culture, nature, etc.? This will also help you narrow down your choices to staying at a yoga retreat, where you can have more than one class a day, or going on a trip where yoga is included, as well as opportunities to see and explore the area.
Third, consider the style of yoga that you want to do while on this vacation. If, say, you want to go somewhere that is on the beach where you can do a water sport you love (like surfAt the Equator ing), then can you find a teacher who knows So, how do you narrow down the choices? how to provide instruction in yoga to enhance Answering a couple of main questions will go a long way your surfing? Yes, you can! The same is true for biking and to narrowing down the choices. First, where do you want yoga, hiking and yoga, paddle boarding and yoga, tennis and
In Ecuador
New York City, Pier 40
to go? If you already have an yoga, and on and on. Although I have On a Hike idea of where you would like not found one for shopping and yoga, to go on your vacation, you can then significantly narrow I bet someone will at some point come up with that! down the choices of what is available there. For example, living in Costa Rica, I am looking for a place where there You can find yoga vacations that are highly organized with is something outside of our beautiful tropical climate, as I all accommodations and activities arranged for you. You can can go to beautiful beaches and be in the warmth and sun also find yoga vacations where they simply offer yoga, and almost any day. So consider your desires for climate and arrange your lodging and the rest of your activities yourself. type of place you want to visit. So on your next vacation, take your mat, and explore the world!
Namaste, Mary Mary Byerly is one of the owners and the yoga teacher at Panacea. An oasis of tranquility and health 10 minutes from Tamarindo. Discover Paradise and Bring a Peace Home www.panaceacr.com • 2653-8515
Surf Report (from page 34)
“I am very proud of the Costa Rican Surfing Federation who has taken the initiative to put an extra effort to develop surfing’s youth in their country,” remarked ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “Every child in the world, no matter what race, religion, or socio-economic status, deserves to be given the opportunity to discover the power of the oceans and the passion of riding waves. I know once they are in the water surfing, it will positively change their lives forever, like it did to me as a kid growing up in Argentina.” The next Junior Surfing camp will take place at the end of this month, November 30 and December 1, in a Guanacaste beach to be determined. A few months ago, in October, the FSC launched its latest version of the Triple Corona Metropolitana de Surf 2013, which is a three-date event for residents of the urban areas of Costa Rica. Last October, returning for a second year from the Federación de Surf de Costa Rica (FSC) is the Triple Corona Metropolitana de Surf 2013, which is a three-date event for residents of the urban areas of Costa Rica. The first date was in Jacó this past October, the next in Esterillos in November and the final in Playa Hermosa in December. The categories in the Metropolitanas are Open, Junior, Women’s and Locales. The last division, Locales, is new to this contest, and is only open to surfers who are residents of the zone where the event takes place. The FSC added these competitors to give these higher-level surfers a chance to improve their skills in an additional contest for the year. Brazilian Mauro Sergio Oliveira, who is a Costa Rican resident living in Escazú, won the Open in the premier weekend which brought out about a thousand spectators. At forty years of age, and eligible to compete in the Circuito Nacionals Master division as well, he rode roughshod over last year’s Metropolitano champion Felipe Pozuelo and his brother Daniel, who were half his age. They came in 2nd and 3rd place, respectively, with the veteran Loria Geancarlo placing 4th.
Triple Corona Metropolitana de Surf 2013 October 19, 20 • Playa Jacó Open 1. Mauro Sergio Oliveira 2. Felipe Pozuelo 3. Daniel Pozuelo 4. Geancarlo Loría
Bodyboard 1. Felipe Fernández 2. Beatriz Arleo 3. Alex Campos 4. Dara Ocleright
Junior 1. Daniel Pozuelo 2. Ciaran Olceright 3. Federico Pacheco 4. Marcelo Jiménez
Locales 1. Maikol Torres 2. Alberto Muñoz 3. Bruno Carvalho 4. Danny Bishko
Women’s 1. Paula Soto 2. Reyes Goméz 3. Marilyn Jiménez 4. Laura Corrales Speaking of urban surfers, some very interesting news indeed. Costa Rica will have its first artificial surf park built which will feature a wave of up to 3-feet high. Construction on this Water Kingdom Park has already begun in Bagaces, Guanacaste, and it looks like it will open July 2014. The project is the result of an investment of $10 million between Costa Ricans and Spanish partners, will be built over an area of 22,000 square meters. And last, but not least, a quick note about the Clasico Boca Barranca 2013, a surf contest in its fifth year. It’s the official kickoff of all of the season’s national competitions. However, this is a little more special since all of the proceeds from this event benefit the Hogar de Niños Monserrat, whose residents were in attendance that weekend. In waves that were perhaps the best-ever for the long-running contest, the great surfer Jason Torres won 1st place, besting Anthony Fillingim and Olman Morales, both of Santa Teresa, and David Herrera of Quepos.
“The competition was amazing,” said Oliveira. “Jacó surprised us with good waves so we could present a nice show, but in a hotly contested competition framework. It was not easy to get 1st in this 2-day event.”
Said Torres: “The event was amazing, and the waves and competitors were so grueling. The truth is not many of the cream of Costa Rica surfing attended, but there was a high level of surfing from the locals who participated because they know the wave.”
The other categories were won by: Maikol Torres (Esterillos) in the Local; Felipe Fernandez (San José) in the Bodyboard; Daniel Pozuelo in the Junior; and Paula Soto in the Women’s.
The next big competition will be from the Costa Rica National Surf Team who will try to win yet another title at the Campeonato Centroamericano, which goes off in Playa Venao, Panama, on November 22 to 24.
Look for the action to continue in Esterillos Oeste on November 16 and 17.
That’s all I’ve got. Looking forward to hearing what you think. Keep those emails coming at EllenZoe@aol.com. Send your comments, information, errors or praise, because I can’t do this column without you, the real surfers.
Surviving
C hapter MMXIII
COSTA RICA
Prologue: It began as something as simple as renewing a driver’s license, an act than in any other country involves about fifteen minutes in an air-conditioned office. I didn’t realize that I’d soon be involved in a day-long journey through the very bowels of the Costa Rican Bureaucratic Nightmare. I’d already renewed my driver’s license a couple of times over the years; however, in the fine Costa Rican tradition of “we make easy things hard” there were now new requirements for renewal. Of course nobody really knew what the new requirements were. As far as I could tell, to renew a license either required a cedula, identifying you as a non-eternal-tourist, or something saying you were almost there. I fall under the second heading, having received my “tramite” documents recently and it was just a matter of time till I was an official resident. I checked with the guy handling my case and he concurred and said I would have to go to San José to get it done. Equipped with my dictamen, the document proclaiming I was healthy enough to drive on Costa Rican roads, and multiple copies of my driver’s license and passport, I left for the capital a day early so I could get to the renewal office nice and early. I arrived at the entrance of CONAVI, the road people, and the pleasant smiling young man at the gate looked over my documents and informed me that I needed to go to another location to change the passport number on my license, which involved a twenty-five-minute taxi ride through downtown San José where most of the main thoroughfares were closed due a recent catastrophic water line rupture.
A Day in Hell
On arriving at the next office, and after convincing some serious security types that I had a reason to be there, I walked into a large window-filled room where I seemed to be the only one present. Only one window was open and was occupied by a fairly pleasant woman of middle years who, after examining my passport for a few minutes, informed me that I couldn’t get my license renewed without a current cedula… At least I think that’s what she said. I immediately called my “handling guy” who seemed to be as surprised as I was and, after some consideration, said that if I went to the Department of Immigration and talked to Alejandra at booth ten in the office designated as “line Seven” she could clear things up as to my official standing in the eyes of Immigration. Now if you’ve ever been to the main Immigration building next to the main highway in San José you’ll know that it’s like a combination of several visits to the dentist or playing a gig at the Marriott. But it was still relatively early in the morning and I thought that maybe it’d be a little mellower this time, so after another twenty-fiveminute taxi ride in traffic moving at the speed of molasses I arrived at the Immigration main gate where a guard who looked like he wasn’t having a very good day directed me to “Line Seven” dealing with “documentos extranjero”, documents for foreigners. Most of my fellow foreigners seemed to be large family groupings of unhappy-looking Nicaraguans who were eventually allowed inside. When my turn came I was told that I really needed to be in the main area for my further documentation. The main area made even “Line Seven” look good, being even more full of unhappy-looking Nica types in long lines waiting to be served by people in windows who looked desperate to be somewhere else.
Story by Jesse Bishop owlhumm@hotmail.com
I panicked and made another call to our “guy” who said to calm down and he’d send a guy he knew who worked there who’d get me in. The guy’s guy actually showed up a few minutes later and got me out of the main room and through the doors of Line Seven and actually waiting in front of Booth Ten to talk to Alejandra. She turned out to be a woman in her middle years who had apparently either just received some very bad news or had recently eaten some bad fish and, after a brief glance at my passport and assembled documents, said that I needed to talk to Dolores in the adjoining office in line 37b. That office was filled with even more unhappy types waiting in long lines to talk to even grumpier women, of which Dolores proved to be a shining example. I was at the window for less than a minute before being dismissed with a look that said “don’t come back”. I eventually found out that I could use my current Texas driver’s license if I had a current visa stamp in my passport so, after a quick trip to Nicaragua, I was at least legal to drive in Costa Rica for three months. Epilogue: I used my Texas license while hoping that eventually I’d receive my cedula and be able to renew my CR license, all the while hoping I wouldn’t be stopped by a traffic cop looking for a little income enhancement. I was therefore thrilled to be told by my good bud Wendy that she and her husband, who didn’t have current USA licenses, but with their soon-to-expire CR licenses, had been able to renew them at the Liberia CONAVI office with a minimum of hassle. She told what document copies I needed to get the deed done; I went down to the office where they let me in and twenty minutes later I left with a brand-new license good for six years.
Favorite Things Tom Peifer peifer@racsa.co.cr When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I’m feeling sad, I simply remember my favorite things, and then I don’t feel so sad.
I prefer the Coltrane version. In my case, last night it was a throbbing toothache. Tossing and turning as the pain reached ever deeper into my jawbone, I happened to look through the screens that surround my bed. Swept away by the celestial majesty strutting its evening show as the seasons change here in Guanacaste. OK, the Tylenols helped a bit too. Nonetheless, the point remains valid. It is so easy to get caught up in the grind of survival here as year-round residents in Paradise that it’s easy to forget to “stop and smell the roses.” Or, more appropriately, notice the early arrivals of migratory birds settling into their winter homes. Savor the fresh corn delicacies—yoles, tamal dulce, chorreadas—that are still coming out of the abundant corn crops of this year’s late season plantings. Enjoy those perfect mornings at the beach, before the clouds come in and the tourists arrive. Obviously, anyone who reads the national news has reason to experience a bit of concern for the way things are headed. Notwithstanding Costa Rica’s reputation as ‘eco-friendly’, a recent “State of the Nation” report issued stern warnings about the overall unsustainability of current trends. From fossil fuel use to water quality issues, the country is falling behind on key fronts in its professed aim to set world standards in striking a balance between environment and development. At the same time, I had the pleasure of watching our local crocodile population grow and move out and into new areas this rainy season. A friend just sent a video of an adult tapir crossing the highway, as concerned motorists stopped and waved their arms to stop oncoming traffic and assure the somewhat ponderous pedestrian a safe crossing. As I look out the window at some of the last stragglers of the rainy season clouds sweeping out to sea, it’s hard to bear in mind that across that expanse of blue, at this very moment, the highly radioactive fuel rods are being extracted at the Fukushima nuclear power station. “The most dangerous single operation in the history of atomic energy.” Yet, I can vouch that concern about nuclear holocaust had no effect whatsoever on the enthusiasm and noise level during the first fiestas of the year over the weekend in the town of San Francisco. Out of sight, out of mind, is a great antidote to gloomy forecasts, especially when taken in tandem with yet another round of cold beers.
Costa Rica is still struggling to get a handle on its problemita with the highways and bi-ways of this beautiful land. But I can say, on a recent, bumpy, up-and-back bus ride to San José I was treated to two spectacular sunsets at the halfway house in Esparza. Even as the passing traffic grumbled and ground to a standstill in front of me, the remnants of road rage vanished in the blaze of colors that infused the surroundings with a changing series of surreal, even heavenly hues. Some psychologists who have studied just what makes people happy argue that it is not a permanent, immutable state of mind. It’s not like going somewhere. You know, you get there and, well, there you are, like in the story books,
“happily for ever after.” To use a nutritional analogy, it’s not like eating a 24oz. Porterhouse steak. More like an ongoing series of pleasant and diverse snacks. It’s the little stuff, at regular intervals, part of your daily routine that you actually take the time to recognize, cultivate and in this way nourish your spirit. I’ve seen other studies that emphasize the important role of humor in maintaining an upbeat outlook in the face of the mountains of negativity which permeate the news and the world wide web. In that sense it is a real relief to be living in Guanacaste, where the locals have a healthy, earthy and at times piquant sense of humor. Political correctness has not found fertile ground hereabouts. Everything, and everyone, (continued page 44)
Favorite Things
Alcoholics Anonymous Schedule of Meetings
Flamingo
Tuesdays: 5:30 - 6:30 pm (open) Fridays: 5:30 - 6:30 pm (open)
is fair game to be caricatured, parodied and virtually drawn and quartered in the collective comedic consciousness of Guanacasteco popular culture. Here it’s no holds barred, take no prisoners, another round of beers and back to the business of survival in a physically challenging environment. Humor gets added to the list of home remedies to have on hand for dealing with the occasional onset of doom and gloom.
Location: Hitching Post Plaza Unit 2, Brasilito Contact: Don H. at 2-654-4902
Tamarindo
Saturday: 10:30-11:30 - Open General Meeting Monday: 5:30 - Open Meeting Wednesday: 10:30 - Open Meeting Thursday: 5:30-6:30 - Open Meeting Location: Behind Pedro’s Surf Shop Contact: Ellen - 2-653-0897 / Steve - 8377-1529
December 2013 ( a l l
t i m e s
l o c a l )
Sun
1st - rise 5:46; set 5:19 15th - rise 5:53; set 5:24 31st - rise 6:01; set 5:32 New: 1st quarter: Full: Last quarter:
Moon
2nd 9th 17th 25th
6:22 p.m. 9:12 a.m. 3:28 a.m. * 7:48 a.m.
* smallest full moon of 2013
2.5
He who would live a long life, should grow a garden.
RAINFALL - Oct/Nov 2013
Tom Peifer is an ecological land use consultant with 19 years experience in Guanacaste. 2658-8018. tompeiferecv@gmail.com
Maricle Meteorological Observatory
c 2.0
s
On a personal level, there is one thing that really keeps me going as we go deeper and deeper into the dog days of the dry season, as the scorching sun bleaches the green out of the landscape and drives all but the senseless to seek shade at mid-day. I have a vegetable garden. It’s a mini-oasis of life and even a bit of nourishment, both spiritual and physical. First come the tender leaves of lettuce, basil and other greens, followed by string beans and okra, and the crowning glory of tomatoes that are vine-ripened provide a daily feast both for body and soul. Even if you think the world is going to hell in a hand basket, there is nothing like an afternoon stroll through bountiful garden beds, basket in hand as you harvest a few of your favorite things. It helps maintain a both a sense of control and a balanced perspective, and offers insight into an old Chinese proverb:
RAIN GAUGE
3.0
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(from page 43)
Villarreal de Santa Cruz
1.5
Total rainfall: 21.1 cm (8.3 inches)
1.0
El Centro Verde is dedicated to researching and promoting sustainable land use, permaculture and environmentally sound development http://www.elcentroverde.org/
0.5 0.0 16
20
25
Oct
Year-to-date 2013: 99.8 cm 2012: 177.1
31 1
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Nov
Rainfall Oct/Nov 2013: 21.1 cm 2012: 54.5
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