Category Archives: Friday Column

The visit of President Barack Obama of the U.S. and the presidents of other Central American countries is affecting a lot of activities in San José.  The Little Theatre Group has put out a notice that tonight’s performance of “God … Continue reading →

The “God of Carnage” has arrived in Costa Rica and settled for the moment at the Laurence Olivier Theater in San José.  Settled is the wrong word.  If there is such a thing as psychic gravity, it seems to have … Continue reading →

Although I don’t walk downtown as much as I used to or even visit the city, there are two phenomena that I became aware of after living here a short time and notice that today they still prevail. One was … Continue reading →

As Shakespeare said so well, “Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown.” It is a shame that with power comes fear.  Often it is fear on the part of the populace because the power is in the hands of … Continue reading →

An email from Sandra asking about bus passes for residents 65 and over had me thinking that perhaps it would be a good idea to once again share some of the things I have learned since becoming a resident and … Continue reading →

This week I watched Jimmy Kimmel’s cousin go out on the streets of Hollywood and ask little kids what Easter was about.  To a child, they responded, “Eggs.”  It makes one wonder about the growing enthusiasm for Christianity that is … Continue reading →

Probably as soon as humans realized there was a tomorrow, that a future existed, someone decided to try to predict it. Not long after that, others began to argue over the prediction; and soon they began to wager on the … Continue reading →

If I sound as if I am harping, I am. But since it is a matter of life or death, it is important to remind everyone, especially people in the medical profession, to WASH YOUR HANDS. I am beginning to … Continue reading →

When I arrived in Costa Rica, I lived on the east side of San José and eventually discovered a small Italian restaurant on a side street in San Pedro. It was called Ponte Vecchio and had two miniature dining rooms … Continue reading →

Recently from Europe has come news of a horse meat scandal that stretches from Great Britain throughout Europe. It is confusing as to whether the scandal is due to fraud in labeling, fear or repugnance at the idea of eating … Continue reading →

Last Sunday it seemed like a good idea to visit San Jose’s new Chinatown. It has been opened for a while now, and the mammoth painted gates are in place. Besides, it was the Chinese New Year, the year of … Continue reading →

“I can’t get anything done in this country!” Are you at the stage where you smile when you hear that comment from a newly arrived disillusioned expat, or do you still mutter this to yourself from time to time? Something … Continue reading →

Dreams have been a part of my life since I can remember. I am talking about the dreams you have when you are asleep, which some people remember and others don’t. Sleep is a part of everyone’s life. Lately there … Continue reading →

Perhaps it is poetic justice, given the history of the relations between blacks and whites in the world and in countries where slavery and/or apartheid existed or still exists, but at this moment in history, both the leader of the … Continue reading →

Dr. Oz is a successful heart surgeon and has a wildly popular talk show with audience participation on ABC in the United States. I have watched his show and generally agree with what he advises, especially since he recommends treatments … Continue reading →

Other than the check for my rent, dating this column is the first time to write the year. Writing the 20 still looks strange after so many years writing 19 before the last two numbers, but I’m happy to be … Continue reading →

2012 was the year that flew by faster than any year I recall. However, I am told that that is what happens as we grow older and there are fewer new experiences or first times in our life. Anyway, time, … Continue reading →

It is almost impossible to write a happy holiday column in the present world situation, especially with what has occurred in my native country of the United States. President Obama is right when he says they must put an end … Continue reading →