US Embassy Workshops (via Action Alliance) - Jan 20

Here are a pair of workshops that the Community Action Alliance team have planned with the Consular Section of the US Embassy for Friday, January 20th.

The first workshop will target US Citizens and will cover Citizen Services offered by the consular staff including voter registration, passport renewals, and notary services. Embassy representatives will also address security concerns, take questions, and discuss their forthcoming American Citizen Services Newsletter.

The second workshop will target Costa Ricans and is intended to provide information regarding US Visa Applications. Many of you have come to us with questions raised by neighbors, friends and workers who have asked about visa requirements. In response to these inquiries we have asked and the Embassy has graciously agreed to present this special workshop. We appreciate your help in getting the word out to any Costa Ricans that may have questions about applying for a Visa to the US.

DATE: Friday, January 20, 2012
TIME: Workshop #1: 10am. Workshop #2: 11am.
PLACE: tba
DIRECTIONS: tba

ADMISSION: Free for Action Alliance Members. Fee for non-members tba
RSVP: mike@styles.com or 8333 8750

YOGA at the Cabinas - Mon, Jan 2

Hola Yogis,

Anna Campagnale hopes everyone had a wonderful holiday season!! On Monday January 2nd @ 10am at Las Cabinas she will be commencing yoga practice. Come join her as we open up our bodies and minds to the wonders to come in this New Year. We will be letting go of the old and welcoming the new!! New Year brings with it so many opportunites to enrich our lives and increase our awareness so that we may navigate through our days with clarity and an abundance of love!!! So much to explore!!!

Yoga Schedule will be as follows: (below are more detailed class descriptions)
Monday - Vinyasa 10-11:30
Friday - Yin Yoga 10-11:30

Classes are $5. No experience is necessary. Anna is merely a guide. You are the keeper of your own body and I always encourage yogis to go at their own pace. Please wear comfortable clothing. They are mats for your use if you should need one.
Please feel free to call Anna with any questions or if you need directions @ 8718-2719.

Anna looks forward to seeing some familiar faces as well as some new ones!!! RSVPs are appreciated, but feel free to just show up if that is more convenient!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Namaste'
Anna

Vinyasa Flow is a form of yoga where movement is linked with breath as we move from one pose to the next. It is a more vigorous form of yoga as opposed to Yin Yoga. We will be flowing much like dancers do from pose to pose. Be prepared to sweat.
Yin Yoga is an extremely therapeutic form of yoga. Contrary to a more vigorous or yang form of yoga, where we mainly work the muscles of the body, Yin Yoga addresses the Yin parts of the body. Specifically, it targets the connective tissue (the ligaments and tendons in the joints and spine). The benefits of Yin Yoga are numerous. It increases range of motion and flexibility, cultivates patience, acceptance and peace, and puts the body in a deep state of meditation where healing occurs. Yin Yoga is a wonderful way to experience pain relief and obtain/maintain a sense of well being.

The asanas or poses are all done lying or sitting on the mat and held for a mininum of 3 - 5 minutes. This allows for the release of the muscles, giving us access to the fascia, ligaments, tendons & joints. These yin body parts are less elastic and therefore require more time to lengthen.

Monthly CRAFT MEETING (2nd Tuesdays)

CRAFT MEETINGS

Tuesday, January
10am-2pm

RSVP if possible (for food purposes) but all are welcome without.

The first meeting will be just a general to discuss the direction people want to go.

Please email Deanne at ticadea@hotmail.com

Everyone is welcome to bring a hand craft to work on if they want, paper and pencil.

Directions:

Take the Palmares exit off the main Pista and follow that street into town to the point you have to turn right or left. Turn RIGHT.

About 200 mts you will have to choose right or left again. Turn LEFT.

Turn RIGHT on the first street on your right. [Note it is a little hidden but as you turn on to it.] You should see a large ICE BUILDING on the left side of the street but, if you see the fire dept (Bomberos), on your left, you missed the turn.

Stay on that street until you see a sign on the right that says:
Residencial Palma Real 300 mts. There you will want to IMMEDIATELY turn LEFT.

Cross over a small bridge.

About 100 mts you will be turning RIGHT into the entrance of Palma Real (it is a divided entrance with palm trees).

Turn RIGHT at the 2nd street. [Note the 1st street to the right is a dead end and has no houses.]

Cross over a speed bump.

House is on the RIGHT not numbered but has 4 palm trees in front
(3rd house in a row of 4 that touch walls).

House phone # is 2453 6064

Deanne will try to have some balloons or ribbons on the trees at the house.

This is during fiesta so she will tell the guard that friends are coming to her house (another reason for a head count).

First Friday Dog Loving Day - Jan 6

WOOF!! All those gorgeous rescued dogs are wagging their tails in anticipation for the next first Friday of the month... coming up very soon!

Friday, January 6
Meet at Cafe Delicias 8am

Repeating last month, if you wish, here's what we wrote and soooo very much hope you can come along to help:

Helene, who runs Dogland, is suggesting (though no obligation - everybody can decide what he/she wants to do and in which way he wants to help) concentration on cleaning the houses, yards, beds and food plates. The workers never have enough time to clean these really well. This will help a lot.

Again, cleaning up the yard, etc., is absolutely not an obligation; the dogs are, of course, more than happy to receive your love, be brushed and ear cleaning is always a job that takes a lot of time.

Orphanages - Christmas event - Dec 23

Emerald Forest Properties took on on three of the local orphanages totaling 54 children, to host at their San Carlos farm Friday, December 23 starting at 10.30am.

If you'd like to make a contribution, money won't be accepted but, if you would like to send baked goods, candies or Christmas foods, these will be graciously received (only tangible items please).

Tom and Susan Ackley, AKA Mr. and Mrs. Santa, will be on hand the day of the event to hand out gifts and after all that sugar, tooth brushes!

If you would like to be a part of this event please contact Donna Wood, Brad Butler or Roy Quiros at the following numbers, 2460-9003 or 8890-6869 or 8816-9898. There nothing more heartwarming and rewarding than to see Christmas through the eyes of a child.

RSVP: December Mixer - Action Alliance - Fri, Dec 16

Action Alliance is holding its "December Mixer" on Friday, December 16, 10am at the UCR Regional Museum (situated at the NE corner of San Ramon's Parque Central; one block west of PeriMercado.

They will be distributing proceeds from the book sale and acknowledging the volunteers and supporters as well as donating several musical instruments to locals in need.

The event is very popular so, to ensure everyone can be accommodated, please RSVP Mike Syles at mike@styles.com or 8333 8750

Volunteer event: Dog Day! Fri, Dec 2

Dog Day!

This Friday, December 2

Meet at Cafe Delicias 8am

YES! WOOF! Dog Day is approaching again... fast!

Helene, who runs Dogland, is suggesting (though no obligation - everybody can decide what he/she wants to do and in which way he wants to help) concentration on cleaning the houses, yards, beds and food plates. The workers never have enough time to clean these really well. This will help a lot.

Again, cleaning up the yard, etc., is absolutely not an obligation; the dogs are, of course, more than happy to receive your love, be brushed and ear cleaning is always a job that takes a lot of time.

All the 174 dogs send you their greetings and are very excited about the next Friday.

Reservation Event: Writer's Workshop - Dec 14

Writers Workshop: How to Get Published

Thanks to our friends at A.M. Costa Rica it has come to our attention that the Atenas and Escazú Writers Groups will be hosting a special workshop on How to Get Published on Wednesday, December 14 beginning at 1:00 pm at the First International Baptist Church in Escazú (the big church across the Autopista from Multiplaza Mall).

The workshop will include three presenters including Fred Holmes, the author of “A Trial by Fire and Ice”. There will also be a Panel Discussion with a Q&A session featuring three published authors. A.M. Costa Rica columnist Jo Stuart will also be in attendance.

The organizers are requesting a 2,000 colones donation for those who attend. We know there are a lot of you out there who are writers or aspiring writers and this is a fabulous opportunity to get some very tangible tips on how to get published.

If you have any questions or would like to reserve your spot please contact Larry Rusin at 2451 8063 or crcaseyboy@gmail.com. Shood San Ramón forme itz owen riters clubb???

Event: A dog walk in the Park - Sun, Nov 27

"Por amor a los animales"

Asociación Humanista de Desarrollo Animal is literally translated to Humanist Association of Animal Development. They have been handing out leaflets to advertise a dog walk, this Sunday 27, starting 10am, at San Ramón's Central Park.

Registration cost: Colones 3500 with T-shirt / 1500 without / 500 per child

More information available from Trey Jiménez on 8762 8051 (Spanish only).

I (Annie) telephoned Trey and, with my poco understanding of Español, gathered there may be stalls and a dog walk.

Concert: TubaChristmas (via Action Alliance)

TubaChristmas

The Holiday Season is upon us and your Community Action Alliance wants to help you get in the spirit with a special Christmas concert: TubaChristmas.

Please join us on Friday, December 16 at 6:00 pm at the José Figueres Cultural Center for a holiday performance that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. San Ramón newcomers John and Caryl Buford and local music leader Elias Artavia are collaborating on this performance of Christmas music featuring tubas and euphoniums (exclusively!).

Please RSVP Mike Styles at mike@styles.com or 8333 8750.

Also in the spirit of Christmas (Ho! Ho! Ho!) several much needed music instruments will be donated to local schools and musicians by Santa Claus (aka Jeremy Davis, special guest from the far north). Our merry musicians are already making plans for additional holiday events in 2012 (OcTubaFest?).

PROPAZ Toy Swap (via Action Alliance)

PROPAZ Toy Swap
Drop-off extended to Monday, December 5

Our friends at PROPAZ are once again coordinating a Toy Swap at which children will bring their toy guns and other toys symbolic of violence and exchange them for ‘non-violent’ toys. In 2010 members of the Action Alliance donated over 100 toys representing the single largest donation by any group in San Ramón.

Please help us in supporting this worthwhile organization by dropping off toys at the Rancho at El Castillo de Relajamiento (aka The Cabinas) deadline extended to Dec 5. Note that PROPAZ will exchange the toys during the Municipality’s Christmas Celebration in the Central Park (details to be available on the Action Alliance website).

Santa, and possibly Mrs Claus, will be on hand distributing toys to the children.

Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner Special at Mario's Steak House

Thursday 24th Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner Special

Appetizer – soup or salad

Entrée:

Turkey
Stuffing
Cranberry
Sweet Potatoes
Green Beans and Carrots

Beverage – one glass of wine
Desert – Pumpkin Pie
Coffee – or cappuccino

Price: 9,000 colones plus tax

Reservations requested: please call Mario’s Steak House at 2445 7833 (Some of us have reserved for 4pm if you'd like to join us and reserve a place for that time also.)

[Mario has spent a good time in the USA so he knows all about Thanksgiving food! AND he's a very good Chef and really should be charging more (but don't tell him that)!]

- Directions from the Pista/Highway: Stay in left lane to the lights (gas station on right corner) and turn left. It's 3-4 blocks on left.

- Directions from the green church in San Ramon: Green church on right... keep going straight on until the road bends left. Go over the intersection and the restaurant is on the right side (less than a block).

http://gonzosincostarica.blogspot.com/2010/04/mario-steak-house.html

Reservation event, Dec 10: Day out with Lunch at Finca Luna Nueva

December 10 marks the third anniversary of Slow Food International's Terra Madre Day when all members of Slow Food Convivia from around the world meet locally to promote good, clean, and fair food. Zona Norte Slow Food Convivium members invite you to meet Finca Luna Nueva to celebrate this important day with a lunch of organic local food products, a special garden tour, and a gift of cuttings from our organic farm to plant in your own kitchen garden. Enjoy this special "Slow Food in the Rainforest" event for just $20 per person. This is a $60 value for one-third the cost!

Arrive 10-11am

Tour from 11am-1pm

Lunch from 1-3pm

For those of you who live in the Zona Norte and would like to be part of the Slow Food movement, we invite you to join the Zona Norte Slow Food Convivium.

By Thursday, December 1, please email gringocentral@gmail.com to reserve your place.

Here's their website: http://fincalunanuevalodge.com/

Event: Horseback Riding, Waterfall, Lunch, Dancing plus...

GIDDYUP!!

When: Sun, Nov 20
Time: 10am-1pm
Where: Las Mosas

Two hours of horseback riding, a snack, a walk to the waterfall and lunch. After lunch there's dancing with music, a snack and a dip in the swimming pool too! There's a Raffle also.

The cost, using 1 of their horses, is Col. 26,000. If you bring your own horse it'll be Col. 10,000.

You can buy tickets, in advance, at their office or on the day. Best to buy in advance so they know roughly how many horses to prepare.

Please email gringocentral@gmail.com if you can supply more information to go in this please (e.g. directions to the office and venue). Thanks.

RSVP Event: Cabinas THANKSGIVING!

Here is everything you need to know if you would like to celebrate Thanksgiving casual-style at the Cabinas.
All reports from last year indicate that it was lots of fun, and although turkey is not a guarantee, it just might appear on the pot luck table! Everyone is invited!

Date: Thursday, November 24, 2011
Time: Noon until 3 p.m.
Place: El Castillo de Relajamiento (The Cabinas)

Directions: Drive west from San Ramon on the autopista about three miles, passing El Jardin on left, then Las Tinajitas Restaurant on right, then look for the next bus stop shelter on left. Just past that on the left will be a wide place to pull over to the left and a sign for cabina rental. Drive to the top of the hill, and the rancho is on the left.

Cost: None, but please bring the following for each person in your group: plate, napkin, knife, fork, spoon, beverage of choice. Per single or couple, please bring a dish to share. If you have extra chairs, it would be great if you would bring them, though some tables and chairs are available.

Expect: Outdoor buffet dining in a lovely setting (click on http://www.cabinasofcostarica.com/ for more info about the venue), twenty or thirty of your closest friends, good conversation and if we are lucky, a tv with football....!!!!!

Very important! Email Randi Killian at randean96@gmail.com let her know you are attending and what dish you will be bringing!

A word about Turkey - - - as everyone knows, they are very expensive here in CR. Last year we were lucky enough to have a few turkey breasts to go around so everyone got a taste. So, if turkey is your thing that makes (or breaks) your Thanksgiving celebration, maybe a few people will consider going in on a that menu item.

Be sure to RSVP!

RSVP Event: Day Trip to Tortuga Island! Snorkeling! Beach!

Back by Popular Demand!! If you've always wanted to take the Calypso Tour to Tortuga and thought it was too pricey, we have a super alternative -- a Great Yeatman Tour! Paul and Gloria have arranged for you:

Tortuga Island Tour!

Two dates to choose from:

Sunday, November 13, 2011
or
Saturday, November 19, 2011

Description: Tortuga Island is a hidden tropical island just waiting for you off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. On the way, we will stop to look for dolphins and turtles, then go snorkeling to discover the hidden treasures of the deep. When we reach the Island, you will enjoy the white sand beach and beautiful aqua blue waters. You can swim, walk the beach, explore the island, or just plain relax. You will also enjoy tropical fruit, beverages, and a delicious BBQ lunch on the beach.

Cost:

Option #1: $54 pp (compare to a similar tour priced at $110-$120 per person) Price includes round trip boat ride (about 80 minutes each way), English speaking guide, fresh fruit, water, iced tea, lunch, snorkel gear, and a safe place to store your belonging. Bring your own alcoholic beverages, if desired. Reservations and payment in advance are required. Passengers, please give driver 2,000 colones towards gas.

Time: Meet up at The Cabinas at 7:00 am to car pool to Puntarenas. Tour departs Puntarenas around 8am and returns around 4:30 pm. Return to San Ramón around 6pm.

Option #2: $65 pp includes round-trip transportation from the church in San Ramón. 10 people minimum required.

RSVP or questions: please contact Paul or Gloria Yeatman at 8919-2710 or email gmyeatman@gmail.com

You know you've wanted to do this! Snorkeling not required! Just enjoy the beach!

Event: 1st Annual Book Sale Fundraiser

Our first Annual Book Sale Fundraiser is taking place this November. It's a team effort between Community Action Alliance and Gringo Central.

When: Saturday, November 12 from 10am to 2pm

Where: Museo Regional de San Ramón (north side of the San Ramón Church)

Donations: We are grateful for all donations of books, CDs, etc.

Drop-off locations: Cruz Roja, COOPENAE, Museo

Prices of used books: ¢1,000-2,000

Discounts for ALL Students

Beneficiaries: 100% of the proceeds will benefit both:

- Cruz Roja de San Ramón
- Dogland

Information:

English: Louise Whittman 8997 9903 or reesemickie@gmail.com

Español: José Esquivel 8702 8479 o jesquivelg@hp.com

Event: First Friday Dog Day - Dog Loving

Date: Friday, November 4, 2011

Time: Meet Up at 8 am at Cafe Delicias in San Ramon for Carpool/Caravan to Piedades Sur. Passengers, please give driver 1,000 c toward gas.

The first First Friday Dog Day (Dog Wash Day) was a great success. There were 11 of us, 4 guys, which was great since they handled most of the hose work! We washed, dried and brushed about 30 dogs (no one was counting!). Many got their ears cleaned by our own "Staff Veterinarian" Lisa Gellock (as well as some nails trimmed).

Some pooches knew a good thing when it happened and refused to leave warm snuggly laps... and most of the laps didn't want them to leave either! Helene Wirt, the wonderful warm heart behind Dogland, couldn't say thank you enough, but we all felt we should be thanking her for the opportunity. A great time was had by all!

Each month, on the first Friday, we are planning to go to Dogland. The plan at this time is to spend alternate visits washing, and loving. If other needs arrive that we can help with, those activities will be added. So, as October had Dog Wash Day, November will have Dog Loving Day.

Most of the volunteers arrived with supplies of dog shampoos, ear cleaner, dog food, and towels, others who could not attend sent more supplies, as well as cash donations. Helene says it costs her about $4000.00 a month to run this rescue operation. Needless to say any and all donations are most welcome.

Event: Arts & Crafts Exhibition

Show and Sell Arts & Craft Exhibition (sponsored by Newcomer's Club of Costa Rica).

Sunday, October 30
10am-4pm
at The Cariari Country Club

Over 50 talented Artists and Craftspeople

Enjoy the day shopping for unique holiday gifts, home furnishings and decorations, birthday inspirations, fine arts, used books, clothing, shoes, jewelry, wonderful foods and coffee.

Maybe we can organize some car-sharing too?

RSVP Event: Insurance Seminar - Friday 21 October

The Community Action Alliance Costa Rica will be sponsoring an insurance seminar on Friday, October 21st (10am-11.30pm) at the José Figueres Ferrer Cultural Center in San Ramón (north side of the San Ramón church). The topic of the seminar will be “Insurance in Costa Rica Post-CAFTA: New Players, New Products, New Opportunities.” The featured speaker will be David Garrett of The Garrett Insurance Group who recently spoke at the International Living Conference in San José. Mr. Garrett has lived in Costa Rica for more than 30 years and has represented INS for more than 20 years. Presently, Mr. Garrett represents INS and other insurance providers, to give residents of Costa Rica a broad spectrum of choices. This seminar is FREE for Action Alliance members and 3,000 Colones for non-members. If you would like to attend please RSVP to mike@styles.com. For more information visit http://www.actionalliancecr.com/.

RSVP Event: CANCELLED Birthday Pot Luck Lunch Dec 3

Sorry this event is cancelled and will be rescheduled in due course.

RSVP Event: Weekend with the Whales!

Our friend Patricia Salazar is arranging a quick trip to Drake Bay to see the whales! If you are available next weekend and want to go along, here are the details!

Dates: Friday, October 14 - Sunday, Oct 16
Time: Leave San Ramon at 10 am, back Sunday afternoon
Included: Round trip transportation in a private van with Victor, two nights' lodging at Hotel Oleaje Sereno near Corcavado
http://www.hoteloleajesereno.com/, six meals, boat trip to Isla del Cano for whale watching and admission to the island.
Cost: $170 per person, all inclusive
RSVP: To Patricia (English/Spanish) at 8841-5682 or email her at psalazar62@hotmail.com for more info. Payment in full is required to make your reservation. There are only twelve spots available, so the early bird gets to see the whales!

Meet Up Event: Goat Cheese Sampling!

Have you been thinking about goat cheese? Even if you haven't, you might want to try some new products that are fresh and healthful! Chris Panzer and Mike Styles have put together a Meet Up opportunity for anyone who'd like to sample or purchase products from Mario Rojas' Goat Farm!

Date: Saturday, October 8, 2011

Time: 9:00 am

Place: Rancho at The Cabinas

Directions: Drive west on autopista from San Ramon. Pass El Jardin Restaurant on left and Las Tinajitas Restuarant on right. Look for next bus shelter on left. Just after bus shelter there will be a wide pull off on the left with a wooden sign that says, "Cabinas For Rent." Drive up the hill on the paved road. The rancho is on the left at the top of the hill.

Here is some info from Mike:

Mario delivers the products to his buyers every Friday (like the ‘old days’ with the milk man except with goat products) and it occurred to him that others may be interested in switching from cow to goat products. Mike did some light research on the internet and discovered that there are many health benefits to goat products including easier digestion than cow products. He also read that seventy-two percent of the milk used throughout the world is from goats. Chris has been kind enough to set up a sampling of Mario’s goat products at the rancho at the cabinas . Anyone interested in purchasing his products can. Following is the pricing:

Milk, 900 ml, 900 c
Yogurt, liter, 1500 c
Cheese, 1/2 kilo, 3500 c

Also available: vermi-composted manure for your garden, 300 c per kilo

Questions? This is a Meet Up, no RSVP necessary. For more info, call Chris Panzer at 8306-3159 or email him at chris@casa-amanecer-cr.com.

Meet Up Event: Lunch at Outback!

Are you ready for a bloomin' onion? Gail and George Hudson are planning a trip to Escazu and you are going to love the lunch!

Date: Sunday, October 9, 2011

Meet Up: 8:30 a.m. at Olga's Place Restaurant Parking Lot, Autopista west of San Ramon (look for the giant windmill on the north side of the road). Caravan to Escazu.

First Stop: Walmart! Formerly Hipermas, this is the absolutely biggest Super Walmart you will ever see this side of Bentonville, Arkansas! They have tons of food items, housewares, etc. that you will not get anywhere else in Costa Rica! If you haven't been, it's worth the trip just to look! How much can you buy in 90 minutes?

Second Stop: Outback Steakhouse! Yes, it can be pricey! George says it depends on what you order and your beverage of choice, up to $50 per person, but it's just like being in the States or maybe even Down Under! The Hudsons say that everybody deserves a treat now and again! It's only a half mile from the Walmart and a perfect place for brunch/lunch!

Questions? No RSVP necessary as this is a Meet Up! For more info, call Gail and George at 8769-9321 or email them at hudsongeorge47@gmail.com.

Come on along! There are Shrimp on the Barbie with your name on them!

Gringo Central: First Friday Dog Wash!

The Gringas are volunteering to wash and play with dogs at Dog Land! Everyone is welcome! And we are hoping to make it a monthly play date!

Date: Friday, October 7, 2011

Time: Meet Up at 8 am at Cafe Delicias in San Ramon for Carpool/Caravan to Piedades Sur. Passengers, please give driver 1,000 c toward gas.

Expect: About a thirty minute drive to Dog Land, a brief tour of the clean and lovely doggy villages, and on to the Big House for the first 40 introductions! That's the goal for the day! Spend about 3 hours getting wet and having fun! Return to San Ramon about noon. If you do not want to get soaked, bring a large trash bag to wear over your clothes. Very fashionable! We'll show you how!

I can't go but I want to help: Founder Helene Wirt says that it costs about $4,000 a month to take care of the current 167 residents...so monetary donations are always welcome! Additionally, specialized shampoos for those pups with skin conditions would be so very helpful! Here are some suggestions:

• Lisan Shampoo con Gluconato de Clorhexidina (red and white bottle)


• Virbac Espisoothe


• Vetriderm Champu Cuidados Intensivo


• Vetriderm Antiseptico

If you are passing by any veterinarian's office and you have a few thousand colones to spare, buying the special shampoo would be a lovely gesture. Also, if you have any old clean towels or old sweatshirts (which apparently are great to dry dogs!) you want to recycle, these are also welcome. Bring them on the day of the dog wash if you are going or any Thursday at 10 am to Cafe Delicias to Louise Whittman.

Questions? Call Louise Whittman at 8997-9903 or email reesemickie@gmail.com. For Dog Land's Facebook page, go to queridos perros Aso Elena or www.meetyourdog.org.

Haven't you always wanted to do this?!!

RSVP Event: Day Trip to Tortuga Island! Snorkeling! Beach!

If you've always wanted to take the Calypso Tour to Tortuga and thought it was too pricey, we have a super alternative -- a Great Yeatman Tour! Paul and Gloria have arranged for you:

Tortuga Island Tour!

Date: Sunday, September 18, 2011

Description: Tortuga Island is a hidden tropical island just waiting for you off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. On the way, we will stop to look for dolphins and turtles, then go snorkeling to discover the hidden treasures of the deep. When we reach the Island, you will enjoy the white sand beach and beautiful aqua blue waters. You can swim, walk the beach, explore the island, or just plain relax. You will also enjoy tropical fruit, beverages, and a delicious BBQ lunch on the beach.

Time: Meet up at The Cabinas at 7:00 am to car pool to Puntarenas. Tour departs Puntarenas around 8:00am and returns around 4:30 pm. Return to San Ramon around 6 pm.

Cost: $55 (Compare to a similar tour priced at $110-$120 per person) Price includes round trip boat ride (about 80 minutes each way), English speaking guide, fresh fruit, water, iced tea, lunch, snorkel gear, and a safe place to store your belonging. Reservations and payment by September 17^th are required. Passengers, please give driver 2,000 colones towards gas.

RSVP or Questions: please contact Paul or Gloria Yeatman at 8919-2710 or email gmyeatman@gmail.com.

You know you've wanted to do this! Snorkeling not required! Just enjoy the beach!

RSVP Event: Mangrove Island Adventure! With Crocodiles!

Our friends Paul and Gloria Yeatman have a great day trip planned! Read on!

Crocodile Mangrove Forest Tour and San Lucas Island Tour

Date: Friday, September 16, 2011

Tour Description: Tour the Mangrove Forest, learn about mangroves history, their importance to our ecosystem, and why we need to protect them. Enjoy with us the wonders of the Mangrove forest, where you are surrounded by the melody of nature and beautiful gardens. See the enormous crocodiles and a variety of birds and animals. You might glimpse many species of aquatic birds, green and red macaws, White-faced Monkeys, Howler Monkeys, coati mundi and other animals and amphibians. Then continue on a 40 minute boat ride to San Lucas Island, located off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Serving as an island prison from 1873 to 1991, San Lucas Island is now considered a national cultural heritage site and wildlife refuge. Tour the historic dock, church, medical building, prison cells and former offices. While in the national wildlife preserve, you may see howler monkeys, turtles, rays, deer, pheasants, spiders, snakes, and some of the 8 species of bats living on the island.

Time: Meet up at The Cabinas at 7:30am to car pool to Puntarenas. Tour departs Puntarenas around 8:30am and returns around 2:30pm. Return to San Ramon about 4 pm.

Cost: $32. Special pricing includes boat transportation from Puntarenas, all entrance fees, English speaking guide, fresh fruit, and water. A cooler will be provided if you want to bring lunch or a snack. Reservations and payment by September 15th are required. Passengers, please give driver 2,000 colones towards gas.

RSVP or Questions: please contact Paul or Gloria Yeatman at 8919-2710 or email gmyeatman@gmail.com.

A great day at a great price!

RSVP Event: T'ai Chi Chih!

Dr. Anita Vestal is returning to San Ramon! Learn T'ai Chi Chih, a wonderful meditative and peaceful practice of gentle movement in a lovely outdoor setting! Anita led a class of beginners earlier this year, and we all enjoyed it very much! This class will go over basic movements and add a new ones as well. This event is sponsored by the Community Action Alliance!

Date: Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Time: 9 am to noon
Cost: 6,000 c for Community Action Alliance Members, 8,000 c for non-members.
Place: The Cabinas (El Castillo de Relajamiento)http://cabinasofcostarica.com/.
Directions: Autopista west from San Ramon, pass El Jardin Restaurant on left, Las Tinajitas Restaurant on right, after next bus shelter, look for wooden sign on left, "Cabinas for Rent" and make a left up hill. Rancho is at the top of the hill on the left.
RSVP: Mike Styles at 8333-8750 or email him at mike@styles.com . Wear loose, comfortable closthing and tennis shoes.

RSVP Event: The San Ramon Museum/Community Action Alliance!

It's time for the Community Action Alliance Mixer! This month's meeting will be a special event...you'll get a chance to see the newly renovated San Ramon Museum and learn a bit about its history from the curator, Roxanna Salazar-Bonilla! There will be other speakers and an Alliance update.

Date: Friday, September 23, 2011
Time: 11 am to 1 pm
Place: San Ramon Museum
Directions: The museum is located on the north side of the Central Park, approximately 75 meters west of Perimercado.
Cost: Free for Community Action Alliance members; opportunity to join at the meeting. See http://www.actionalliancecr.com/ for information about membership.
RSVP: Mike Styles at 8333-8750 or email him at mike@styles.com.

Meet Up Event: Volunteer and Lunch!

It's time to sort the books! The Gringas have been collecting books for the Action Alliance's first book sale which will be held in October or November. It looks like we have more than 600 so far, so it's time to organize them! Then we'll do lunch! Thanks to Louise Whittman for coordinating this event!

Date: Friday, September 9, 2011

Time: Meet Up at 10 am SHARP at the bar/restaurant at the corner of the autopista and the Magallanes turn and follow Louise Whittman to the storage site, two minutes away.

Directions: Autopista west from San Ramon, pass Olga's Place/Windmill Restaurant on left, continue uphill to next right turn. There is a castle-type house on the far right-hand corner and a bar/restaurant with a parking lot on the near right-hand corner. Pull into the parking lot.

Agenda: We'll sort books from 10-12 (wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting dusty) and then head to Olga's Place (Windmill Restaurant) on the autopista for lunch...great place for a burger! Many other menu items as well.

Questions? No RSVP necessary, just come along! For more info, email Louise Whittman at reesemickie@gmail.com or call her at 8997-9903. And if you have more books or boxes, bring them to Thursday Coffee at Cafe Delicious at 10 am or to the Book Sort on Friday! We will continue to collect books at every Thursday Coffee until the sale! The book sale is a fundraiser for the Red Cross and Dog Land!

Meet Up Event: Fried Shrimp for Lunch!

There's nothing like fried shrimp for lunch! Can't say that there's a lot of atmosphere (the outdoor dining is actually a carport), but the food is terrific! Thanks to Sharon Rochester for coordinating this event!

Date: Friday, September 2, 2011

Time: 12 noon for Meet Up

Place: La Guaria Bar and Restaurant

Cost: About 5,000 c per person for lunch. Lots of other choices as well.

Directions: Main Street In to traffic light. Make a right at the Chury Gas Station; pass cemetery on right and then the road will split into three; take the middle road and continue -- this is the Old Road to Palmares. You will pass the Cafe Altura processing plant and then go up the hill past the outdoor shrine on left and a coffee depository also on left. La Guaria will be on your right just before the road makes a sharp right turn.

Questions? No RSVP necessary, just Meet Up! For more information email Sharon at mingo425@yahoo.com or call 8706-5708.

RSVP Event: Road Survival Spanish Seminar!

Have you ever worried about what you'd say if you had an auto emergency and everyone you needed to talk with spoke only Spanish? Well, help is on the way! Our friends at Community Action Alliance have a program just for you!

Date: Friday, August 26, 2011

Time: 10 am to noon

Cost: 2,000 c for Action Alliance Members; 4,000 c for non-members; opportunity to join at the seminar and receive lower rate.

Place: San Ramon Fire Department (Bomberos Meeting Room)

Directions: Main Street In past the church, make a right at the Perimercado and go two blocks until you see the Red Cross sign on the right. The Fire Department is the next building on the right. To enter the meeting room, round the corner and enter, and continue down the stairs.

Program: A learn-and-practice session with Spanish Teacher Johann Benevides of the Green Mountain Academy to help with the Spanish you will need in case of car trouble or accident or a stop by the transit police. As a bonus, each attendee will receive a handy guide with key phrases to keep in the glove box!

RSVP: Mike Styles at 8333-8750 or mike@styles.com.

Go On Your Own Event: Mother's Day Fundraiser!

Our friend Paola Artavia invites everyone to a special event in San Ramon in honor of Mother's Day! The dinner with special music and a seranade to mothers is a fundraiser for the music association's programs offered free to children who cannot afford them!

Date: Friday, August 12, 2011

Time: 8 pm to Midnight

Place: Event Hall behind the Main Church in SR

Directions: 50 meters east of Vica's Store

Cost: 12,000 c for one ticket or 20,000 c for two

RSVP: Call Lillian at 8323-7549 or Juan at 8763-8431.

Questions? Email Paola (in English) at artaviapaola@yahoo.com

Go On Your Own Event: Kay's Gringo Postres - Special Mother's Day Lunch!

Yes! It's Mother's Day, Costa Rica-style! Kay at Kay's Gringo Postres in Atenas is having a special lunch to celebrate!
Date: Monday, August 15,2011
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Place: Kay's Gringo Postres, Atenas
Menu: Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, lemonade, dessert...all for 5,000 c
RSVP: Call Kay at 2446-0664 no later than Friday, August 12. For those of you who have not been there, Kay also has a great library of English books for exchange! Bring her some books and you can bring some new ones home with you!

Meet Up Event: Zoo Ave and an Elegant Lunch!

Wow! Our friends Barbara Arthur and Doug Darr invite you out for a wonderful day! Zoo Ave (a fantastic rehabilitation zoo...in fact the only place in Costa Rica you are guaranteed to observe the elusive quetzal!) and later on, lunch at an excellent Italian restaurant they have discovered and want to share the experience!

Date: Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Time: Meet Up at 8:30 am at Cafe Delicias in SR for carpooling/caravaning. Passengers, please give driver 1,000 c towards gas.

The Events: Arrive at Zoo Ave a little after 9 am.

www.zooavecostarica.org/. Then around noon off to lunch at Restaurante La Focaccia, at the boutique hotel Resort Martino in La Garita. www.hotelmartino.com/menu.htm

Cost: Admission to Zoo Ave with CR Driver's License or Cedula is 3,900 c; 3, cfor Over Age 65 Gold Card Holders; 7,500 c for Turistas Then La Focaccia --this is an upscale lunch! Let's pretend we're rich and famous! Menu items 6,000 - 11,000 c, but Barbara and Doug say it is well worth it!

Questions? This is a Meet Up so NO RSVP is necessary! Email Barbara and Doug at bardou@msn.com or call them at 8898-0770.

Go On Your Own Event: Marcha Pacifica!

Come out tomorrow to support our community's peacemakers! At Friday's Community Action Alliance Meeting, Mike Styles talked about San Ramon's effort to petition the judiciary for a local flagrancia court to speed up the judicial process and deter crime. This marcha pacifica will demonstrate the unity in our community!

Date: Sunday, July 25, 2011

Time: 10 am to noon

Place: Marchers will start from the front of the Hospital in San Ramon and will walk up to the Parque Centro/Church.

Questions? Call Mike Styles at 8333-8750 or email mike@styles.com

Meet Up Event: Cerviche Del Sol!

Our friend Parker Henry has discovered a new restaurant in Alajuela, and she has invited us all to go along on a road trip!

Date: Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Time: Meet Up at 9:30 am at Cafe Delicias, SR

Agenda: Carpool/Caravan to Alajuela (passengers, please give driver 1500 c towards gas). First stop will be 1 hour at Goodlight Books www.goodlightbooks.com/ to stock up on used books. Go to the website above to print a discount coupon for 15% off (main page, left side, discount coupon). Then a ten minute ride to Cerviche Del Sol, a restaurant near the new Automercado which features fantastic seafood. Yes, we are sure some folks will want to stop at Automercado too! We should be back in San Ramon about 2 pm or so.

Questions? Call Parker Henry at 8703-6354 or email her at elnidocrp@yahoo.com . No RSVP required, just meet up at 9:30 sharp! See you Tuesday!

RSVP Event: Three Days in Tortuguero!

Wow! A chance to get to know the marine life at Tortuguero! A Caribbean vacation! Our friend Parker Henry has put together a wonderful trip!

Dates: Sat-Sun-Mon, September 3-4-5, 2011

Place: The Laguna Lodge, Tortuguero
http://www.lagunatortuguero.com/en

Includes: 2 nights' lodging, 3 meals per day, all transportation from and to San Ramon, baby turtles and canal tours! Leave from San Ramon at 6 am from the front of the church.

The nesting sea turtles tour is c8,000, additional, the money goes to support the rangers who protect the nests. Folks going on this tour need to bring black/dark clothing to wear.

Cost: $145 per person, USD only. 50% due by August 15, balance due on September 1.

RSVP or More Info: Call Parker Henry at 8703-6354. Last year's trip was a blast! Parker's got a good crowd going, so join the fun!

RSVP Event: Community Action Alliance Mixer

We're having a very special Community Action Alliance meeting! Our friend Paul Birdsall, the Consul General of the American Embassy in San Jose, is finishing his assignment in Costa Rica this month, and this is our chance to say thanks and wish him well!
Date: Friday, July 22, 2011
Time: 11 am to 12:30 p.m.
Place: Olga's Place Restaurant
Directions: 2-3 kilometers west of the San Ramon Mall on the autopista. Look for the big windmill on the left...you can't miss it!
Cost: Free to Action Alliance Members, others have the opportunity to join!
Agenda: Welcome/Opening Comments,Tribute to special guest Consul General Paul Birdsall,San Ramon Carbon Neutral Presentation by Jorge Araya,Signing of Articles of Incorporation, Committee Reports ,Member Introductions, Networking
RSVP: Call Mike Styles at 8333-8750 or email him at mike@styles.com.
Bonus! Stay for lunch! Olga and Joe have a super restaurant, and having run similar establishments in New Jersey, they have that American menu down pat! Let's all stay for a cheeseburger and fries! Many other menu items are available as well!

Meet Up Event: Kay's Gringo Postres for Breakfast!

Oh, yes! American breakfast! Books to read! A great day! Our friend Louise Whittman is coordinating the fun! Everyone is welcome!

Date: Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Meet Up: 8 am SHARP for carpooling/caravaning to Kay's Gringo Postres in Atenas. Meet at Cafe Delicias in San Ramon. Passengers, please give driver 1,000 c towards gas.

Expect: A hour drive through the mountains on the way through Palmares to Atenas, a fantastic breakfast (less than 4,000 c), a large lending library of English-language books (please bring books for Kay to put into her library and take a corresponding number of books home with you...five is a good number), lots of fun and good conversation, optional stop at Palmares Ropa Americana on the way back. Plan to return to San Ramon around 1 pm.

This is a MEET UP so no RSVP is required! Questions? Email Louise at reesemickie@gmail.com or call her at 8997-9903

Meet Up Event: Lunch at Las Brasas y Vino!

Barbara and Doug want to try the new pizza place and you are invited!

Date: Friday, July 8, 2011

Time: 12:00 noon

Place: Las Brasas y Vino

Directions: Main Street In to end, make a left, go past Hospital Emergency Room, continue a block or two until you see the liquor store on the corner. You will see outdoor tables for Bocaditos, and Las Brasas y Vino is two stores to the west. There's a big sign, look up!

No RSVP necessary, this is a Meet Up! Questions? Email Barbara and Doug at bardou@msn.com . Everyone is welcome!!!

Go On Your Own Event: Celebrate the 4th at Bocaditos

Wow! The nice folks at Los Bocaditos are helping Americans to celebrate Independence Day on the 4th of July by providing free bbq wings, hamburgers and hot dogs to the Gringos of San Ramon!

This lovely gift is available on the afternoon of the 4th! Please remember to thank Victor and the gang at Bocaditos by buying beverages and leave a nice tip, perhaps...here are the details:

Date: Monday, July 4, 2011

Time: 2 pm to 7:30 pm

Meet Up: No particular time, though some of us are planning to be there around 2 pm and another group somewhere around 3 or 3:30 pm. Or arrange your own group!

Directions: Los Bocaditos Restaurant is north of the hospital's emergency entrance by about two blocks. Look for the Liquor Store on the corner on the same side as the ER and Los Bocaditos next door. You will see their outdoor tables and seating!

No RSVP Necessary! No need for passports! They are pretty good about identifying Gringos and muddling through our Spanish!

Meet Up Event: Coffee and Book Exchange!

What's better than a few new books to read? We'll be exchanging books at our regular Thursday Coffee this week, so come on along! Everybody is welcome!

Date: Thursday, June 30, 2011

Time: 10 am Meet Up, 10:30 book exchange

Place: Cafe Delicias, San Ramon

Expect: To exchange five books (you can bring more but the first go-round is select 5), and you will be given a number for your turn. Coffee and breakfast available! This is a great opportunity for informal meet and greet! PLEASE ONLY BRING BOOKS YOU WISH TO EXCHANGE PERMANENTLY AS THEIR RETURN CANNOT BE GUARANTEED!

Meet Up Event: Dinner at Los Bocaditos!

Our friend Lisa Gellock is asking everyone to help celebrate husband Mike's ?th birthday next week! What a great reason to get together! Everyone's invited!

Date: Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Time: 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Place: Los Bocaditos Restaurant and Bar

Directions: Main Street In to End, make a left and continue through traffic light, past Emergency Room, Los Bocaditos is two blocks from the ER on the right hand side next to the liquor store. You'll see it, it has some outside tables.

Expect: Varied tipico menu, less than 5,000 c for a dinner, good food and drink!

Questions? Call Lisa at 8387-6925 or email her at lisaincostarica@aol.com.

RSVP Event: Spanish for Medical Emergencies Seminar!

The Community Action Alliance is busy helping us with solutions! If you have ever worried about making yourself clear in a medical emergency, here's a great program for you!

Date: June 24, 2011

Time: 10 am - noon

Place: Fire Department next to Red Cross, 100 meters east of Perimercado

Program: Johann Benevidas of Green Mountain Academy will teach us basic Spanish skills needed to handle medical emergencies such as, "I have fallen and can't get up" and "Send an ambulance to (directions)." A handout to keep on your refrigerator will be distributed. And as a bonus, you will have access to an ebook for medical Spanish!

Cost: 2,000 c for members, 4,000 c for non-members, opportunity to join at seminar.

RSVP: Reserve your spot by emailing Mike Styles at mike@styles.com or call 8333-8750.

Meet Up Event: Zarcero and a Potluck Brunch!

What a lovely place to visit! The church and the topiary gardens in Zarcero are waiting for you! And there's the history of Costa Rica done as a fresco at Rancho Amalia we'll stop to see, and a potluck bunch at the home of our friend Lynette Lewis...what fun!

Date: Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Time: Meet up at 9 am at Cafe Delicias for carpooling and caravaning. Passengers, please give driver 1,000 c for gas.

Expect: Drive 30 minutes to Zarcero, stop at Rancho Amalia to see the art and take a look around at their cabins and facilities http://ranchoamalia.com/en/, then off to Lynette's house for an informal potluck brunch! Don't forget to bring a dish to share, something easy! Lynette says she will provide paper products and drinks. She lives very close to the church and gardens, and we'll have a chance to wander down to enjoy them. Then we'll drive 30 minutes back, probably arrive in San Ramon by 1 pm or so.

Questions? This is a Meet Up Event, so no RSVP is necessary! Just come along! Open to everyone! For more information, email Lynette at lynettelewis18@gmail.com or call 2463-2002.