The bocas breeze may 2017 final

MAY 2017 | VOLUME 12 | ISSUE 3

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CAYUCO PAUNCH: CHAMPIONS!!!

CAYUCO PAUNCH GANA EL OCEANO A OCEANO 2017

RECORDANDO A BARRY MUNRO

Photo: In Munchies Burger Bar

FANLYC INSPIRES WITH "BOCAS ES AMOR" FANLYC INSPIRA CON ‘BOCAS ES AMOR’

BOCAS SEA TURTLES: STILL RELEVANT & STILL MAJESTIC

TORTUGAS MARINAS DE BOCAS: MÁS RELEVANTE Y MÁS ENCANTADOR QUE NUNCA

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REMEMBERING BARRY MUNRO

US AMBASSADOR JOHN FEELEY VISITS BOCAS EMBAJADOR DE EE.UU. JOHN FEELEY VISITA BOCAS DEL TORO

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IMPORTANT IMMIGRATION INFORMATION

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EDITOR’S NOTE

PUBLISHER INFORMATION / INFORMACIÓN EDITORIAL

The Caribbean is known for a lot of things: islands, sunshine, coconuts and reggae music. Punctuality, however, has never been one of the main tenets of the Caribbean style. On time or not- it's always a good time in the Caribe. I'd like to thank all the patient people out there, taking in the sunshine and most of all: enjoying the Breeze...

The Bocas Breeze is published monthly in English and Spanish with a circulation of 5,000 free copies distributed at airports, restaurants, retail stores, and local businesses throughout Panama (Bocas del Toro, Panama City, David, Boquete) and Costa Rica (Puerto Viejo, San Jose).

The Bocas Breeze is also online at www.TheBocasBreeze.com

NOTA DEL EDITOR

El caribe es conocido por muchas cosas: islas, el sol, cocos, y musica reggae.

La puntualidad, sin embargo, nunca ha sido uno de los principios fundamentales del estilo caribeño. A tiempo o no- siempre es una buena hora en el Caribe. Me gustaría agradecer a toda las personas con paciencia que hay por ahí, bronceándose bajo el sol, y sobre todo: disfrutando de la brisa, o sea el Breeze...

- Nicholas Corea, Editor

El Bocas Breeze es publicado mensualmente en inglés y español con una circulación de 5,000 copias gratuitas distribuidas en aeropuertos, restauran- tes, tiendas y comercios locales en toda Panamá (Bocas del Toro, Ciudad de Panamá, David, Boquete) y Costa Rica (Puerto Viejo, San José).

Check out our website! ¡Visita nuestro sitio web!

www.TheBocasBreeze.com

Yes, the Breeze is read over seas!

Here's a copy with Joan Bergmans in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Joan is Bocas-lover who frequents the islands.

You can find her in the line up, making surf art and spreading ocean awareness to the local surf communities. She has been working with Red Frog Beach Activity Center next to Nachyo Mommas Taco Bar (see February's issue). Send a picture of you and your copy of the Breeze from somewhere else in the world and perhaps you'll find yourself in the Bocas Breeze.

www.es.thebocasbreeze.com en español Editor: Nicholas Corea | Published by / Publicado por: Nicolasio, SA Contact us / Contáctenos: 6537-0405, admin@thebocasbreeze.com The Bocas Breeze all rights reserved.

Translation: Milagro Rimmer Photo credits: Jahir Amir Torres | Formatting and Web Administrator: Angie Whittemore Correa | Distribution: Julie Colosso of Simplify Panama (Panama City), Caribe Shuttle (Puerto Viejo and San Jose, Costa Rica), JB Seligman (Bastimentos), Luis the Empanada Legend of Aqua Lounge (Carenero) Robert Larson (Boquete, David)

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IMPORTANT IMMIGRATION INFORMATION

BARRY MUNRO 1958-2017

In an effort to eradicate the “permanent tourist,” new legislation has been enacted that requires those on a tourist visa to spend 30 days out of the country before re-entering as a tourist. This much has been confirmed and is being enforced at the Sixaola and Paso Canoas borders. There are conflicting reports to whether the tourist visa is still 180 days or is 5 months, whether you can enter and leave during that time period and whether during those 30 days you are to go to your home country or not. What is clear though is that if you plan on being in Panama for a long period of time, you should definitely look into establishing residency. Panama makes the process relatively easy compared to most countries in the world. The Bocas Breeze has contacts to the best immigration lawyers in Panama. Contact editor@thebocasbreeze.com if interested and stay tuned for updates on the tourist visa and residency requirement policies.

Bocas del Toro morns the loss of a legendary figure: Mr. Barry Munro.

However, much in tune with his vibrant spirit, his life was celebrated on a memorial aboard the Jade Dragon, April 29th. Barry touched the lives of many in his years in the archipelago: with his quick wit and sarcasm, his generosity and solidarity and of course: with his harmonica. Afternoons on the Jade Dragon and Sounds on Saturday live music jams at Lili's Cafe will never be forgotten.

INFORMACIÓN IMPORTANTE DE INMIGRACIÓN En un esfuerzo para erradicar los "turistas permanentes," una nueva legislación ha sido promulgada que les solicita a las personas que tienen visa de turista a pasar 30 días fuera del país antes de volver a entrar como turistas.

Esto ha sido lo que se pudo confirmar y se está cumpliendo en las fronteras de Sixaola y Paso Canoas. Hay reportes contradictorios de si la visa de turista es aún de 180 días o si es de 5 meses, de si se puede regresar o irse durante ese periodo de tiempo y si esos 30 días hay que regresar al país de procedencia o no. Lo que si está claro es que si planeas quedarte en Panama por un largo periodo de tiempo, definitivamente se debe considerar el establecer la residencia. Panama hace que el proceso sea relativamente fácil comparado con la mayoría de países en el mundo. El Bocas Breeze tiene la información de contacto de los mejores abogados en Panama. Contacte a editor@thebocasbreeze.com si está interesado y quédese en sintonía para las actualizaciones sobre la visa de turista y las polistas de los requisitos de residencia.

Everyone agreed that the memorial cruise to Starfish Beach on the Jade Dragon was exactly what Barry would have wanted and it was well supported by loads of friends and his large and lovely family: his siblings from Canada, 6 children, 7 grandchildren and of course: his beloved Queen, (Lili, pictured above with Barry). Frieda put it best when she said that “People only die when they are forgotten,” so in that case: you Barry, my friend, shall never die.

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For single faucet or bucket Cost: $60

For small to medium sized home or

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Cost: $480 (Filter & Regulator Only)

Distribuidora Hudson Contact: Robert Hudson THE BOCAS BREEZE

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www.disthudson.com disthudson@gmail.com 507-6963-0831 WWW.THEBOCASBREEZE.COM

ANNOUNCEMENTS BOCAS BREWERY BEER GARDEN is here! 9 taps of locally brewed craft beer located at the entrance of the famous Barco Hundido bar (1st street, Isla Colon) SAWYER is open for business! Check out their ad on page 3 for more details on how you can get clean drinking water for your home or business. Various options available.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR BEFORE THE OPERATION: NO WATER AND NO FOOD 12 hours before the surgery (dogs & cats) WASH YOUR DOG 24 hours before the surgery EVENTS (dogs only)

¡MAYO ES MES DE LA ETNIA NEGRA! In May, Panama celebrates its peoples African roots: Black Ethnicity Month. Along with the Bastimentos fair on the 25th to 28th, there are also special festivities to commemorate the culture and traditions preserved

by Afro-Panamanians.

MAY 1: DIA DE TRABAJADOR (LABOR DAY) Many businesses close to honor the working man / working woman.

MAY 6: GRAND OPENING PARTY for the Bocas Brewery Beer Garden! Party starts at noon, at the new location at the entrance of Barco Hundido. Free keg and prize giveaway. BBQ, DJ, swimming and more.

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EVENTS MAY 10-13: SPAY PANAMA Low Cost Sterilization Marathon (see ad on this page for locations) May 14, 11AM-3PM COSMIC CRAB: Mothers Day Brunch MAY 25-28: 3ER FERIA MARITIMA DE BASTIMENTOS (3rd Annual Bastimentos Maritime Fair) The Honorable Representative Ashburn Dixon tells the Breeze that there will be musical groups from all over the province of Bocas del Toro, city of Colón, from Limón, Costa Rica, and even one from another place called “Old Bank” on the island of San Andres (Colombia). Boat races, traditional food and dance is also to be expected.

JUNE 24, 11 AM CST: ABSOLUTE AUCTION OF KOKO RESORT. Regardless of the price, the Koko Resort will be auctioned by the Davis International Auction Group (www.davis-intl.com) Call 256-459-5557. Check out the June issue for more details on the property.

WEEKLY BOOKSTORE BAR: Happy Hour 24/7 Everyday (but only when they are open 6pm to 2am). Books for sale/trade/burning and Super Nintendo for each and every valued customer and esteemed loiterers as well. Ask about our sporadic but worldclass live entertainment.

DONATION BASED YOGA: Monday + Wednesday + Friday 9am @La Buga Dive & Surf Lounge // Thursdays 9:30am & 3pm @Surf Break at Paunch // Saturdays 9am @Surf Break at Paunch // Monday Group Meditation 6:30pm @Sweet Love Bocas Tea House EL ULTIMO REFUGIO: Caribbean-fusion delights on the water, with a full bar Open Mon-Fri at 6pm.

HAPPY HOUR AT BLUFF BEACH! 2x1 Mixed drinks & Beer Sun-Fri 12-2pm Bom Bom tiki bar. Wood fired Italian pizza 12-5. Dinner at Island Plantation 6-9.

THE HUMMINGBIRD BLUFF BEACH: ARGENTINIAN BBQ: Every Saturday from 1 - 8. Lunch served 12-3 and Dinner served 6-9 Tuesday - Sunday, with daily specials. Res: 69494869

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LIVE MUSIC EVERY MONDAY @ BUBBA'S HOUSE IN BASTIMENTOS: Happy hour and live music every Monday at Bubba’s House in Bastimentos Island. Come and discover Paradise!

SKULLY'S SUNDAY BBQ! Delicious grill plate $12, starting 1pm, on the beach $3 taxi from town. Swimming pool, games, Pirate Cocktails. Come play!

SUPER GOURMET ORGANIC PRODUCE every Tuesday and Friday. Our organics are sourced through several local organic farms and therefore the inventory constantly changes. Regular items include mixed greens, kale, butter lettuce, arugula, herbs, collards, saute mix.

SPECIALS BOCAS BLENDED: Wrappy Hour, every day, 4-5, 2 wraps = $10 Hot Mama Special on Wednesdays, 1 hot mama, patacone, beer/soda/water = $8 ENGLISH LANGUAGE CHRISTIAN SERVICE: Looking for a place to worship? Need a place to give thanks with light hearted English speaking Christians? Please join us at the Bocas Marina for Service, snacks and fellowship! Casual dress (we do love our flip flops!) Free water taxi across from Bahia Hotel. Services are the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the Month. Got questions? Tommy’s your guy! 6914-0014 SURF BREAK AT PAUNCH: Yoga on our relaxing 20ft high deck in the jungle tree tops with the nearby surf sounds on Saturdays 9-10am and Thursdays 9:30 - 10:30am. // Make Your Own Bloody Mary Bar on Saturdays 10am - 3pm featuring Habanero and Jalapeno infused Vodka, large selection of garnishes. // Mimosa Bar on Wednesdays 10am - 3pm featuring a variety of juices and fruits to pair with your champagne. // AWESOME breakfast and lunch specialty tacos EVERY day except Tuesdays. Everything $6 or less!

THE PUB: Daily sunset happy hour starting a 4:30. Sunday evening poker on the deck at 4:30. Two docks now available for our guests. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Open mic every Saturday from 7-11pm. Check out our daily specials on Facebook: “Bocas Business Blah”

WWW.THEBOCASBREEZE.COM

HOTEL BOCAS DEL TORO COSMIC CRAB RESORT GRAN HOTEL BAHIA RED FROG BEACH ISLAND RESORT THE HUMMING BIRD B&B SELINAS HOSTELS SURF BREAK AT PAUNCH

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BUENA VISTA THE PUB ULTIMO REFUGIO MUNCHIES BURGER BAR THE BOOKSTORE BAR RAW FUSION SKULLY’S BIBIS ON THE BEACH

OCTO BOCAS BEACH CLUB BOM BOM TIKI BAR BOCAS BREWERY BEER GARDEN PARADISE FOUND REAL ESTATE BUENA VISTA REALTY UNITED COUNTRY BOCAS DEL TORO

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KOKO RESORT AUCTION

SALON DE BELLEZA UNISEX CARIBE SHUTTLE SUPER GOURMET BOCAS FIGHT GYM THE SOLAR BIZ

WOODSTOCK SPANISH BY THE SEA FINCA LOS MONOS MAIL BOX ETC. UP IN THEA HILL JADE DR GON DANUTA’S HOLISTIC WATER WORLD

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Fanlyc INSPIRES HOPE WITH “BOCAS es AMOR”

by GyL Ledezma Ducruet

Fanlyc is a non-profit foundation that is dedicated to helping girls and boys with cancer, covering the costs of the support programs which are medications, transportation (fare back and forth to their homes) and housing in the city when they have to get their treatments as well as food for as long as their illness lasts. Fanlyc also has a psychiatric department that does the necessary follow-up so that no child that is diagnosed abandons their treatment.

Note from the Editor: “Bocas es amor,” was the campaign and the love was spread all over the archipelago of Bocas del Toro when the organization Fanlyc came to the island to explore, to enjoy the most important things that life has to offer while inspiring hope in the condition of children affected by Cancer. Life is precious and the campaign was a reminder to us all to value every moment as it comes. Much respect to all involved for such an important and impactful initiative. Here is Fundraising Director Gyl Ledezma with the details of this year's activities.

Some of the activities that took place in the camp were: Physical Exercise: Yoga with Leah (see page 4 for her schedule), Boot Camp con Bianca along with biking, kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding and games

The Summer Camp is organized yearly for children with cancer from ages 11 to 18 years old. It's the first time that we come to Bocas, the first time that some of the children see the ocean, ride on a boat or airplane and travel far away from their parents. Every year we take them to different places that help them value the meaning of life. We have visited Boquete, Contadora, el Valle, Portobelo, Ocú, Santa Clara and many more places.

Food: We went to Munchies Burger Bar, Paki Point, a delicious lunch in Gran Kahuna and Yarisnori. In Aqua Lounge at JJ's Real Food, JJ himself offered what the kids deemed as "the best snack ever!"

The project consists of giving the children reasons to move on, teach them that the power of healing many times is in their minds and that they have everything that they need in order to be happy. This camp began 16 years ago and every year it has increased it's standards. Bocas was our dream...

This year the experience was incredible, the theme for this camp was Bocas es Amor (or Bocas is Love) and we prepared an itinerary where they could experience the best of Isla Colon and Carenero. The theme of the first day was love for the place, the second day- love for nature, the third day love for the people and lastly: love for life.

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Stress management: We went to the Plastic Bottle Village for a workshop of recycled art, painting coconuts, saying hi to nature and we learned to take care of the ocean.

Spiritual: We learned about Tibetan meditation with Tom O'Flaherty; practicing breathing and the love for nature in all of our activities.

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Fanlyc Inspira Esperanza con "Bocas es Amor" por GyL Ledezma Ducruet

Nota del Editor: "Bocas es Amor" fue la campaña y el amor se regó por todo el archipiélago de Bocas del Toro cuando la organización Fanlyc llegó a explorar la isla, para disfrutar lo más importante que tiene la vida para ofrecer mientras inspiraban esperanza en la condición de niños que están afectados con el cáncer. La vida es preciosa y la campaña fue un recordatorio para todos nosotros de valorar cada minuto como venga. Mi respeto a todos los que estuvieron involucrados en esta iniciativa tan importante e impactante. Aquí con los detalles de las actividades de este año es Gyl Ledezma, directora de recaudar fondos.

El campamento de verano se organiza anualmente para niños con Cáncer entre 11 y 18 años. Es la primera vez que venimos a Bocas, la primera vez que algunos ven el mar, que se montan en una lancha o avión y que se van lejos de sus padres.

Todos los años los llevamos a diferentes destinos que los hacen valorar el sentido de la vida. Hemos visitado Boquete, Contadora, el Valle, Portobelo, Ocú, Santa Clara y muchos mas... el proyecto consiste en darle a los niños razones por la cual seguir adelante, enseñarles que el poder de curación muchas veces esta en la mente y que ellos tienen todo lo que necesitan para ser felices.

Entre las actividades que realizaron en el campamento incluimos:

Ejercicio Físico: yoga con Leah, Bootcamp con Bianca y bicicletas, kayaks, SUP, juegos Alimentación: fuimos a Munchies, Paki Point, un delicioso almuerzo en Gran Kahuna y Yarisnori y en Aqua Lounge JJ nos ofreció el mejor Snack de la historia!

JJ's Real Food at Aqua Lounge provided the kids with "the best snacks ever!" / Los niños si disfrutó de la comida en Aqua Lounge, cortesía del restaurante JJ's Real Food.

Manejo del stress: fuimos a la Recycle Bottle Village, talleres de arte reciclado, pintar cocos, saludar a la naturaleza, aprendimos a cuidar el océano.

Espirituales: aprendimos de meditación tibetana con Tom, practicamos respiración y el amor por la naturaleza en todas nuestras actividades Popsicles from Lick It were also a big hit. / Las paletas de Lick It también les gustó los niños.

El campamento nace hace 16 años, y todos los años ha ido subiendo de nivel. Bocas era nuestro sueño... Este año la experiencia fue increíble, el tema de este campamento era "Bocas es Amor" y les preparamos un itinerario donde pudieran conocer lo mejor de la Isla Colon y Carenero. El primer dia fue el amor por el lugar, segundo día: amor por la naturaleza, tercer día: amor por las personas y por ultimo amor por la vida.

Fanlyc es una fundación sin fines de lucro que se dedica a ayudar a niños y niñas con cáncer, cubriendo los costos de los programas de apoyo que son medicamentos, transporte (pasajes de ida y vuelta a sus hogares) y hospedaje en la ciudad cuando deben hacerse sus tratamientos y alimentación durante el tiempo que dure la enfermedad.

Fanlyc también cuenta con un departamento psico-social que les da el seguimiento necesario para que ningún niño diagnosticado abandone el tratamiento.

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THE SEA TURTLE SEASON HAS BEGUN IN THE BOCAS DEL TORO PROVINCE AND THE NGÄBE BUGLE REGION (COMARCA): A NEW OPPORTUNITY

BY GEORGINA ZAMORA Sea turtles are flagship species; they belong to that group of magnificent and charismatic animals that represent campaigns around the world and are symbols of entire communities, just like whales, eagles, or elephants. This does not mean that they are more important than other species, but practically everyone sympathizes with them. As an educator, I have always thought that they are animals that facilitate my job, since they rapidly connect people to their environment and encourage the creation of consciousness. In Bocas del Toro and the Indigenous regions (Comarcas) we have sea turtles; we even have several species, but what we really lack is awareness...

The marine turtle spawning in these zones began in the month of March and will end in October, with the regular visit of the Leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) and Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata); in rare occasions Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) can be seen. Four of the seven species that exist in the world choose this special place to do this task; and it is important to respect their decision.

After all, they were here before us, weren't they?

only one in the zone that is protected by law. Chiriqui Beach (Wetland of International Importance Damani – Guaribiara), Escudo de Veraguas (Protected Landscape Degó), Soporta Beach (Wetland of International Importance San San Pond Sack) and the Bastimentos National Marine Park are a couple more examples.

Map of migratory path of three Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) with satellite transmitters, placed by Sea Turtle Conservancy in 2016 .

The reproductive biology of sea turtles is complex; a nesting female can lay her eggs several times in the same season and then go for 2 or 3 years to regain strength at the feeding zones. For example, the Leatherback can nest up to eleven times in the beaches of Bocas and the Comarca and then travel to the Gulf of Mexico, U.S.A, and even Canada in search of jellyfish. In the year 2015, a turtle of a certain species that nested at Chiriqui Beach of the Comarca, was rescued from a net on the Italian coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Every year, the Sea Turtle Conservancy places satellite transmitters on various females. This information is registered on our online program www.tourdeturtles.org, where we can follow the migration path of the different species that nest in these areas. This gives us information about what happens in their natural habitat; the ocean.

In natural conditions, it is estimated that 1 of each 1000 neonates reaches its sexual maturity at 15 to 20 years old of age. But incidental fishing, the consumption and commerce of its meat, eggs, or shells, as also the lighting pollution, the destruction of habitats, the marine trash, the change in the weather all affect the sea turtles at a local and global level and cause the survival possibilities to decrease even more.

The 7 species of sea turtles, and also many more, are in danger of becoming extinct. Please, let's remember that humans are just another inhabitant of this planet so let's all live in a humble and respectful manner. Hopefully we are not remembered as the first species to selfdestruct. Let's trust that we will know how to do it better.

The Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles choose different beaches in the Bocas del Toro Province and the Comarca for their nesting; some of the most important beaches are Chiriqui, for both species, Soropta Beach for the Leatherback and the National Marine Park of Isla Bastimentos for the Hawksbill.

It is not a coincidence that in recent years the number of nests has diminished on the beaches where there is more of a human presence. Construction, using motor vehicles and human activity during nesting time alter the beach conditions and contribute to its deterioration. For example, at Bluff Beach (Municipal Reserve), even if sometimes its seasonal, there is serious damage in the vegetation line of the beach, a natural coverage and barrier that not only protects the turtles from the artificial lights but also is the habitat and nourishment for a multitude of species. It protects the ground, holds back the water and refreshes the environment, and does many more important functions. This nesting beach is not the

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COMIENZA LA TEMPORADA DE TORTUGAS MARINAS EN LA PROVINCIA DE BOCAS DEL TORO Y LA COMARCA NGÄBE BUGLE: UNA NUEVA OPORTUNIDAD POR GEORGINA ZAMORA QUILEZ Las tortugas marinas son especies bandera; pertenecen a ese grupo de animales grandiosos y carismáticos que representan campañas alrededor del mundo y que son símbolo de comunidades enteras, como las ballenas, águilas o elefantes. Esto no significa que sean más importantes que otras especies, pero prácticamente todo el mundo simpatiza con ellas. Como educadora, siempre he pensado que son animales que facilitan mi trabajo, pues conectan rápidamente a la gente a su entorno y fomentan la creación de conciencia. En Bocas del Toro y la Comarca tenemos tortugas marinas, incluso de varias especies, pero sigue faltando mucha conciencia…

El desove de tortugas marinas en estas zonas comienza durante el mes de Marzo y termina en Octubre, con la visita habitual de las tortugas canal o baula (Dermochelys coriacea) y carey (Eretmochelys imbricata); en raras/ocasiones se pueden observar tortugas verde (Chelonia mydas) y cabezona (Caretta caretta). 4 de las 7 especies que existen en el mundo eligen este lugar especial para llevar a cabo dicha tarea, y es importante respetar su decisión. Después de todo, ellas estaban antes que nosotros ¿no?

La biología reproductiva de las tortugas marinas es compleja; una hembra anidadora puede depositar sus huevos varias veces en una sola temporada y luego irse durante dos o tres años a recuperar fuerzas a las zonas de alimentación. Por ejemplo, la tortuga canal anida hasta once veces en playas de Bocas y la Comarca y después viaja hasta el Golfo de México, EEUU e incluso Canadá en busca de medusas. En el año 2015, una tortuga de dicha especie que anidó en playa Chiriquí (Comarca), fue rescatada de una red en las costas italianas del Mediterráneo.

Cada año, la Sea Turtle Conservancy coloca transmisores de satélite en diferentes hembras. Dicha información se registra en nuestro programa online www.tourdeturtles.org, donde podemos seguir las rutas migratorias de las distintas especies que anidan en estas áreas; esto nos brinda información de lo que ocurre en su hábitat natural, el mar.

Las tortugas Canal y Carey eligen diferentes playas en la Provincia de Bocas y la Comarca para su anidación; algunas de las playas más importantes son Chiriquí, para ambas especies, Playa Soropta para Canal y el Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos para Carey.

No es casualidad que en las playas donde hay mayor presencia humana el número de nidos haya disminuido en los últimos años. Las construcciones, el uso de vehículos motorizados y la presencia humana durante la época de anidación alteran las condiciones de la playa y contribuyen al deterioro de ésta. Por ejemplo, en Playa Bluff (Reserva Municipal), aunque a veces provocado por temporales, existen graves daños en la línea de vegetación de la playa, una cobertura y barrera natural que no sólo protege a las tortugas de las luces artificiales sino que sirve de hábitat y alimento para multitud de especies, protege el suelo, retiene el agua y refresca el ambiente, entre otras. Esta playa de anidación no es la única en la zona que está protegida por ley. Playa Chiriquí (Humedal de Importancia internacional Damani – Guaribiara), Escudo de Veraguas (Paisaje Protegido Degó), Playa Soropta (Humedal de Importancia Internacional San San Pond Sack) y el Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos son algunos ejemplos más.

En condiciones naturales, se estima que uno de cada 1000 neonatos alcanza la madurez sexual entre los 15-20 años. Pero la pesca incidental, el consumo y comercio con carne, huevos y su caparazón, así como la contaminación lumínica, la destrucción de hábitats, la basura marina, el cambio climático…. afectan a las tortugas marinas a nivel local y global e inducen a que el éxito de supervivencia sea aún menor.

Las 7 especies de tortugas marinas, junto con muchas otras, están en peligro de extinción. Por favor, recordemos que los humanos somos un habitante más del planeta así que vivamos con humildad y respeto. Ojalá no se nos recuerde como la primera especie en autodestruirse; confiemos en que sabremos hacerlo mejor.

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US AMBASSADOR JOHN FEELEY VISITS BOCAS

BY NICHOLAS COREA

The US Ambassador John Feeley came to our beloved islands to hit the pavement and to get to know the US citizens living in Bocas. He also got the opportunity to hit the sand and the water to experience the natural beauty of the islands. The Ambassador's appearance in Bocas was the first part of a 5 length tour of Panama where he made himself available to become acquainted with some of the 59,000 US Citizens living in Panama while making himself available to all their ideas, questions and concerns.

“When I got here about a year ago, my original goal was to get out into the country as soon as I could, but as you say in Spanish: gajes del oficio- homework and responsibilities in the city kept me there,” Ambassador Feeley commented. He went onto explain that when he took the position, he and his leadership team decided that the main reason that the US Embassy is in Panama, is to protect American citizens, “and that's a very broad statement, but a big part of that is getting out to meet the Americans, getting out to know who they are and listening to them. And so that's why I'm here in Bocas del Toro...There's an awful lot that I can learn from my fellow citizens,” explained the Ambassador.

While here, Ambassador Feeley enjoyed a nice stay in the Red Frog villas, a tour of the Smithsonian Institute of Research and concluded his trip with an important Town Hall meeting with US Citizens on March 12th in the ATP (Panamanian Tourism Authority) Building in the heart of Bocas Town, on Isla Colon.

New immigration policies and residency requirements were a hot topic during the town hall meeting. At the time of the interview, Ambassador Feeley was able to confirm that new legislation had been made and there had been conflicting reports of the exact policy changes and how it was being enforced and urged American citizens to stay tuned for official statements being made by the Embassy. See page 3 for the latest on changing immigration and residency status policies and be sure to follow the US Embassy on-line as well (information below).

Another part of the presentation was dedicated to informing US citizens about the STEP program (Secured Traveler Enrollment Program). In the STEP program, you can register on-line with basic biographical and contact information and the US Embassy will automatically alert you about potential emergencies (inclimate weather, pandemic medical issues, road closings, etc.) along with any information that might be useful to a US citizen living overseas. You can register today at this website: step.state.gov After the town hall, the Ambassador continued hitting the pavement, mountain trails and sand with his trip onward to Boquete, David, Santiago and Chitré before returning to the urban metropolis that is Panama City. As a US citizen and resident of Panama, I am truly honored for the interview. Thank you you Ambassador Feeley and to the US Embassy for all your consular services, for being so attentive and personable with your fellow citizens and for awarding time in your busy schedule to the Bocas Breeze.

If you are US Citizen, you are urged to follow Ambasssador John Feeley and the US Embassy on line: https://pa.usembassy.gov/ Facebook: Embajada de Estados Unidos en Panama / facebook.com/panamaestamosunidos Twitter: @USEmbPan

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EL EMBAJADOR DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS JOHN FEELEY VISITA BOCAS

POR NICHOLAS COREA El Embajador de los Estados Unidos John Feeley vino a nuestras amadas islas para viajar y para conocer los ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos que viven en Bocas. El también tuvo la oportunidad de ir a la arena y el mar para vivir en persona la belleza de las islas. La aparición del embajador en Bocas fue la primera parte de un viaje de 5 paradas en Panama en donde él estaba disponible para familiarizarse con unos 59,000 ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos que viven en Panama mientras también estaba para sus ideas, preguntas o dudas.

"Cuando llegue aquí hace casi un año, mi meta original era de salir y llegar al país lo mas pronto possible, pero como dicen en Español gajes del oficio- las tareas y las responsabilidades de la cuidad me mantenían ahí, "El Embajador Feeley comentó. El también explicó que cuando él tomó el puesto, el y su equipo líder decidieron que la razón principal por la cual la Embajada de Los Estados Unidos está en Panama, es para proteger a los ciudadanos estadounidense, "y esa es una declaración muy amplia, pero una gran parte de eso es salir a conocer a los estadounidense, salir a conocer quienes son y escucharlos. Y por esto es que estoy aquí en Bocas del Toro... Hay mucho que puedo aprender de mis conciudadanos," explica el Embajador.

Editor Nichoas Corea interviewing the Ambassador of the United States of America, Mr. John Feeley El editor Nicholas Corea entrevistando el embajador de los EE.UU, el Sr. John Feeley.

Mientras estaba aquí, el Embajador Feeley disfrutó de una buena estadía en las villas de Red Frog, un tour al Instituto de Investigación Smithsonian y concluyó su viaje con un importante reunión de alcaldía con Ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos el 12 de Marzo en el edificio de la ATP (Autoridad de Turismo Panameño) en el corazón de Bocas Town, de Isla Colon.

Las nuevas pólizas inmigratorias y requisitos de residencia fuero un tema central durante la reunión de alcaldía. En el momento de la entrevista, el Embajador Feeley pudo confirmar que una nueva legislación fue hecha y ha habido reportes conflictivos de cuales son los cambios de póliza exactos y de como se estaban llevando a cabo y les exhortaron a los ciudadanos estadounidense que permanecieran en sintonía a los informes oficiales que daba la Embajada. Vea la página 3 para ver lo último en cambios de póliza de inmigración y estado de residencia y asegúrese de seguir a la Embajada de los Estados Unidos en línea también (la información está más abajo).

Otra parte de la presentación fue dedicada a informarle a los ciudadanos esatdounidenses sobre el programa STEP (Progama de Inscripción del Viajador Asegurado). En el programa STEP, usted se puede registrar en línea con información básica biografica y de contacto y la Embajada de los Estados Unidos le notificará automáticamente sobre emergencias potenciales (en clima, del tiempo, situaciones de pandemia medica, cierre de calles, etc.) además de cualquiera información que puede ser útil para Ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos que viven en el extranjero. Puedes registrarte hoy en nuestra página web: step.state.gov Después de la reunión de alcaldía, el embajador continuó explorando, senderos de montañas y arena en su viaje hacia Boquete, David, Santiago y Chitré antes de regresar a la metrópolis urbana que se encuentra en la Cuidad de Panama. Como un ciudadano de los Estados Unidos y un residente de Panama, me siento verdaderamente honrado con la entrevista. Gracias Embajador Feeley y a la embajada de los Estados Unidos por todos sus servicios de consular, por ser tan atentos y amables con su conciudadanos y por sacar tiempo de su ocupado horario para el Bocas Breeze.

Si eres un Ciudadano de los Estados Unidos le recomendamos seguir al Embajador John Feeley y a la Embajada de los Estados Unidos en línea: https://pa.usembassy.gov/ Facebook: Embajada de Estados Unidos en Panama / facebook.com/panamaestamosunidos Twitter: @USEmbPan // Instagram: USEmbPan

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BOCAS BLURBS: ISLAND LIFE & ISLAND TIMES

READ THE BOCAS BREEZE ON-LINE: WWW.THEBOCASBREEZE.COM/ LEER EL BOCAS BREEZE EN EL INTERNET: WWW.THEBOCASBREEZE.COM/ES TRASH CANS: One of many new trash recpti- SURF BOCAS DEL TORO: Another epic surf season in Bocas del Toro. I'd cals installed on the archipelago. These trash cans are here to help keep Bocas beautiful in an effort spearheaded in a colaboration between government, local businesses and "Unidos por Bocas". Much respect to everyone who donated and volunteered their time.

They may not want to be mentioned but they sure know who they are.

BASUREROS: Un basurero entre muchos producidos por los esfuerzos de la municipalidad, negocios y Unidos por Bocas (una organización ONG). Mucho respeto para los que colaboraron en donar y trabajar como voluntarios. Son demasiados para mencionar, pero todo el mundo sabe quiénes son. !GRACIAS!

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love to tell you where this is, but it's better you come find out for yourself. Many thanks to skilled surf photographer of Scott Balogh Red Frog Bungalows.

SURF EN BOCAS: Otra temporada de surf buenísima en Bocas del Toro. Me encantaría divulgárselo donde se tomó esta foto pero eso no se hace... Mas vale que vengas a conocer tu misma. Mil gracias a Scott Balogh de Red Frog Bungalows por la tremenda foto.

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BOCAS BLURBS: ISLAND LIFE & ISLAND TIMES DIABLITOS:

Roderick aka "Licho" in full Diablo regalia for the traditional Carenval celebrations in Bocas Town. Licho even took his talents and traditional garb all the way to the city of Colon, where he and his crew stole the show in the only other part of the Panamanian Caribbean that takes part in the tradition of the Carneval Diablitos. Have a nice dinner at El Ultimo Refugio restaurant and tell Licho that you saw him in the Bocas Breeze.

DIABLITOS:

Roderick, mejor conocido como Licho, está aquí disfrazado tradicionalmente como un 'Diablito' para las fiestas carnavales en Bocas del Toro. Licho viajó hasta la ciudad de Colon con sus talentos y disfraz tradicional donde el y su gente la botaron, representando Bocas en el único sitio que también celebra carnavales así con los diablitos en el caribe de Panama.

An epic poolside party at Red Frog Villas featuring The Soulfire Project, Wanaku Beat and DJ Momo. / Fiestona, piscina y música en Red Frog con la banda Soulfire Project, Wanaku Beat y DJ Momo.

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CAYUCO PAUNCH: CHAMPIONS!!!

As most of you might have heard already, Bocas’ own paddle team Cayuco Paunch finished 1st place overall for the Ocean to Ocean 2017 race on April 7, 8 and 9, with a total time of 5:11:17 setting a new record, once again...

The weather conditions of this 3 day paddle race through the Panama Canal this year were quite hard, and many of the cayuco teams were not prepared and several teams didn’t make it to the finish line. Regardless the quite inexperienced team from Bocas finished the season with yet another new record time. Since it has been only their 2nd year competing in the races, it seems unlikely for them to achieve results like these. What’s their secret??

Read more on that in our extended online version. thebocasbreeze.com

CAYUCO PAUNCH: CAMPEONAS

Ya como muchos ya saben el equipo de remo Cayuco Paunch ganó primer lugar en categoría feminina abierta en el Ocean to Ocean Cayuco Race el pasado 7, 8 y 9 de abril con un tiempo récord de 5:11:17.

Las condiciones en estos tres días de carrera a través del canal de Panama fue bastante difíciles y algunos de los otros equipos no estaban preparados para estas condiciones y no podrían terminar la carrera. Sin embargo, el equipo con poca experiencia desde Bocas terminó esta temporada con otro tiempo récord. Como este equipo solamente tiene dos años competiendo no parece ser realista pensar que pueda conseguir resultados de esta manera. ¿Cual es su secreto? Lea mas sobre eso en la versión extendida de este artículo en nuestra página web: thebocasbreeze.com

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BOCAS CLASSIFIEDS

MAY 2017

BOATS AND ACCESSORIES CONTACT Earl Meck 6480-6325 or earlmeck@yahoo.com and Dan Wentworth 6571-3455 FOR PHOTOS AND SPECS: BOATS AND BITS - new and used outboard motors - motor maint and repairs - fiberglass work and paint - quality bottom paint and repair - 20' nice aluminum pontoon pontoon boat' 115 hp - 22' CaribePro with twin 60 hp, 4 stroke Suzukis, less than 100 hours, garaged out of the weather, with all the trimmings set up for fishing and fun - Two 50 hp 4 stroke Yamahas

SERVICES SALON DEL BELLEZA CARIBE UNISEX Full service beauty salon for women and men.

Cuts, color, manicure, pedicure, waxing.

Calle 4 behind Cristina Hotel and Super Mercado. 6722-6641

FOR RENT UPDATED RESTAURANT FOR LEASE IN BOCAS TOWN. Great location, fully equipped kitchen and dining area. Lease from 11:30 until close. $1300 a month. Call for Carmen, 507-7579979.

MARINE SERVICES MARINA PATRON Membership includes WiFi (high speed intenet) and water for anchorage. Secure dingy parking in town. Trustworthy personnel (boat-sitter). Outboard motor repair on site, fiberglass repair, moorings rental, int. & ext. cleaning, boat polish & varnish. Canvas manufacture and repair. Inflatable dingy repairs. Diesel & Electrical repair. Panama Sailing dock, next to Ultimo Refugio info@panamasailing.com +507-6668-6849

TUTTY-N-FISH Best selection of fish and seafood, beef, pork, chicken, coconut oil, Best ceviche in town.

Avenida Sur, after the ferry dock.

Across from Ultimo Refugio restaurant.

Mon-Fri 11-5pm Sat 11-3pm.

Place your order: Tutty06@yahoo.com

WATERFRONT OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Ave. Norte. $525/month Call 6972-6507

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