JoJo

Judy, that's why Panama is so perfect for so many. So many micro-climates in such a small country. Something for everyone. ;o)

2 hours ago, Pat said:

 

I get my Embassy information from Mr. Price Peterson who is the local Warden here in Boquete. I'm told Warden position is an unpaid volunteer role.

Yes it is a volunteer unpaid position. Don Ray has been working overtime fulfilling his obligations to the community and visiting Marion every day lest people forget this. I think we should all cut him a little slack. 

Two obviously alpha males had a set-to. So what, happens all the time. No reason to take sides. Let's move on.

36 minutes ago, Gordon Bakke said:

Well this discussion has certainly gone all over the map.

How so? The issue with Medicare IS something to think about for expats is it not?

In El Terronal, David no rain last two days. Looks like it's begun. ;o(

Mama said there would be days like this. It's a good thing you are so tenacious Dottie. Way to go girl.

Not sure what town you're referring to, but here in David I've used them for 8 years. I now only use them for mail. For packages I now use eShop Boquete and then have them send to David via Fletes Chavales. #1 it's cheaper and #2 far far far less hassle. Airbox Express just got so dang picky and prices were sky high for packages, too many restrictions, etc. There is no monthly or annual charge for the account and with Airbox Express if it's junk mail you don't pay for it. I don't know with eShop Boquete as it doesn't make sense to have mail forwarded from Boquete to David.

Using both makes the most sense for me.

I agree Jim, however we'll have to wait and see if this bears fruit. Keeping fingers crossed.

Just over 8 years in Panama, 18 months in Costa Rica previously. But we like the heat that you in Boquete hate. lol, We're just tropical flowers.  I lived in Seattle, WA several years and hated all the rain, mist, mold. It was pretty and green, but miserable since I grew up in So. CA where it was mostly hot and dry. Sometimes the body just will not acclimate to the changes. But we love it here in David and are in it for the long haul.

Jim, I don't know how much you get around in David, but everywhere we go there seems to be office buildings in construction. I've wondered who was going to fill all these offices but just don't have a clue. There are also several little strip malls. One is across from DQ.

Gosh Jim. You didn't do your post justice saying it was a university hon. This link explains it better and makes a lot of sense. It's a wonderful thing they are doing, at least in writing. I love the sponsorship program as well.

SkyPower will also construct a US $50 million world-class solar and environmental research centre in Panama dedicated to the advancement of solar photovoltaic (PV) innovation as well as advanced research and innovation in environmental sciences.

We need a "Don Ray Day" here !   

What an excellent idea!

I don't think there is anyone that doesn't feel the same sense of gratitude for all that Don Ray WIlliams does for the community. He is so selfless and generous with his time. Thank you Don Ray.

2 hours ago, Jim Tosch said:

it's joking and playing. Lighten up.

Panama is not suffering other than some money nobody seems to be able to account for. If I were going to recommend care for Canadians it would be psychiatric. If you think the Panamanian's need a better health care system, you might also look at their education system and their infrastructure, but it is not because they lack money

Well excuse me Jim, I'm still trying to figure out what part was joking and playing. 

Building a 50 million university is one thing, staffing it is another. Like all the hospitals they are building with no equipment, supplies, doctors or nurses to staff them. It's like so what?

I'm not trying to be difficult here, but we just see things differently about what joking and playing means, and that's okay. Doesn't mean either of us are bad people. ;o) Peace.

Challenge or Chicken? lol

6 hours ago, Jim Tosch said:

I will never claim to understand what the US gov does or does not do. Also I should leave out the word gov. Because much of the money comes from the private sector. But next year it is Canada's turn with the commitment to build a fifty million dollar university somewhere in Panama. Maybe Panama should give Canadians free health care.

Why? Canadians already get free health care. That 50 million dollars could be better spent on free healthcare for the poor in Panama.

"I saw an interview on Channel 2 where the minister were asked about the issue of Minors committing violent crimes and he told the news reporter that they are working in changing the regulations and laws about that issue.   People want actions.   We will wait and see."

Roger, if it's anything like everything else going on in the courts and the political arena, I wouldn't hold my breath on the laws being changed anytime soon. Sad to say, but the wheels grind ever so slowly.

5 hours ago, Roger B said:

 

It has been interesting for me that it is considered "human" if you have a farm animal like a horse, house pet, etc i to place them "to sleep" because they are having terrible suffering from their disease, illness or wounds but that same "human" treatment is not given to person who have terminal disease and are suffering to much with pain. 

I agree Roger. That's pretty backwards thinking.

1 hour ago, Dottie Atwater said:

I am surprised at the businesses that continue to advertise on ning--and am disappointed in them.

Big congratulations to Planet Telecom for canceling their ad on ning!

I think some are just waiting for what they've already paid for to expire before they move on. That was actually what Planet Telecom had intended doing but they pulled his ad that was paid for thru the end of the year. OOPS!

This person I've never seen on .ning until lately.

Why do we even care anymore about ning?

Atta girl!

Good question Dottie. 

Keith, that's about it. Test it on the populace like they do all the drugs.

29 minutes ago, TwoSailors said:

TIP.... you are going to be required to give a copy of your passport to many government/bank and business's till you get your Visa.

Just like a lot of other countries!

Been here 8 years, never had to so far.

Maybe they should tear it down and build a parking garage? Hum. I think a lot of people would be willing to pay to park.