Monthly Archives: December 2016

Life is Fragile – Enjoy Each Day.

Panama Journal

Just one day after Carrie Fisher dies, her mother Debbie Reynolds followed her. The loss was too much to bear. I have seen this several times.

This needs to be a reminder to enjoy each day to the fullest and always let our family and friends know how much we care for them.

I just finished another Embassy case for a couple that had moved to Panama only about two months ago. They were loving it here. They loved the country. They loved the people.

Then one had a stoke and fell and was taken to Regional Hospital. This is where everyone is taken following similar accidents, unless someone intervenes.

The holidays are not a good time to be in need of medical attention in Panama. Doctors are not available often and sometimes it will take a couple of days for a specialist to come.

Death followed

We were able to take care of the hospital, the Doctor’s cause of death report (Desfuncion), the Panama death certificate and get the body sent for cremation in record time. The Embassy is preparing the US death certificates.

These sort of cases, at Christmas time, really affect me. However, it was amazing to see the support of those that were there to ease the pain.

As you go forward today, think of those you love. Call them and tell them. Life is fragile. Enjoy each day.

ITEMS FOR SALE – Los Algarrobos

For Sale

I received a request to post the following. Call the owner for information.

ITEMS FOR SALE

Small portable bar

Full sized desk with file drawer

Single bed with linen

Lamps

Water hose for drinking water (Mobile home, trailer, etc.)

3 chests of drawers

File cabinet

Mica wall unit adjustable shelves, almond, (cost $1300.)

Samsung large refrigerator

GE electric stove.

Frigidaire Washer

Older Golf club set, McGregor, Cast Stainless steel

Kitchen Table Mica.

Adajere, 6+ Ft with light

Oil prints, pictures, etc.

Couch, 7 Ft.

Dish set, Rose Bouquet, by Johnson Bros. England.

1 end table

1 wood coffee table.

1 overstuffed blue velvet corduroy chair.

Porch bench and chair.

Cannon AE-1 Camera, motor winder, flash attachment.

Acer Chrome C-720 laptop computer.

Shop Vacuum with hose.

Older King sized bed with linen.

2 chests, one wicker, one brass for firewood.

21inch floor fan.

Bill, 730-2898  Los Algarrobos)

The Gift of Giving

Panama Journal

I visited a short time yesterday with Tom McCormack. He was in his usual place doing what he does when he is in Panama and that is giving of himself to those less fortunate.

I think Tom told me that he has provided more than 400 legs. Talk about walking the walk.

This gentleman had come from Aguadulce to receive a little help from Tom.

This prosthetic would cost over $9K in the US and the cost from Tom is a smile and a handshake.

Other prosthetics run up to $25K and again the cost from Tom is zero.

At this time of year it is good to see the tears of joy instead of tears of sadness.

I remember when my daughter told me she wanted to be a secret agent. Based on that alone, I knew that she’d never be a good secret agent.

Be Joyful and Be Grateful

Panama Journal

This is the time of year to count our blessings. Last Sunday, Lilliam and I attended the Annual Christmas party at Hogar Santa Catalina. This is a facility I have written about in David that cares for the elderly.

These weekly visitations we make always give me the opportunity to focus on life and the importance of making the most of each day.

There is so many people that are held captive by their infirmities or lack of funds. If you are living in Panama and have been blessed with a good life, this time of year is a good time to share a little kindness with those less fortunate.

There are organizations all over Chiriquí that could use some Christmas cheer. I am sure if you look there are probably some near you.

Here is a couple photos from Sunday’s party. They fed the residents well.

There are now 9 times as many smart phones in the world than there are smart people.

Message for U.S. Citizens: Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) at the U.S. Embassy in Panama

ACS Messages

Following is the latest ACS message.

U.S. Embassy in Panama

Message for U.S. Citizens: Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT)

December 20, 2016

Have you ever wanted to become a diplomat for the U.S. government?  Here is your opportunity!  The U.S. Embassy in Panama will be hosting the computer-based Foreign Service Officer exam on February 2, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.  There is no fee to take the test.  The requirements are as follows:

 

  • Applicants must be citizens of the United States.
  • Applicants must be at least 20 years old.
  • Applicants must be available for worldwide assignment.
  • No specific level in a foreign language is required for applicants.

 

For detailed information on pursuing a career in the Foreign Service, to learn about what career track might be right for you, and to explore in detail the steps of the Foreign Service hiring process, please go to http://www.careers.state.gov.

 

In order to register for the FSOT in Panama, please visit http://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/officer/test-process.  After registering, you will receive a confirmation email on the first business day following submission of your registration from the test administrator (Pearson VUE) that you are eligible to schedule your test seat.  Please do not delay in registering and scheduling your test seat as space is limited so availability is on a first-come first-served basis.  If the test seats are all filled, you will have to take the exam next time it is offered.  The test is currently offered quarterly each year, both within the U.S. and at certain locations overseas.

 

If you have specific questions about the Foreign Service Officer Test, you may send an e-mail to FSOTQuestions@state.gov.

I slept like a rock last night meaning I woke up in the flower bed with the house key under my belly.

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Anniversary of Operation Just Cause Demonstrations

ACS Messages

Following is the latest ACS Message

U.S. Embassy in Panama

Security Message for U.S. Citizens

December 19, 2016

The U.S. Embassy in Panama informs U.S. citizens that it has received a report of planned demonstrations on December 20, 2016 in Panama City related to the anniversary of Operation Just Cause.  One demonstration is scheduled to begin at the U.S. Embassy in the morning.  The American Citizen Services, Federal Benefits, and Visa Units will be closed to the public on December 20.  All U.S. citizens are reminded to remain diligent in your personal security.

 

U.S. Citizens should plan their travel accordingly and avoid all confrontations.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.  Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.  Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.

 

For further information about security in Panama:

 

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Panama Country Specific Information.

 

 

  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Panama, located at Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue Clayton, Panama, at +507-317-5030, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +507-317-5000.

 

  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).