American Society of Panama Christmas event

American Society of Panama Christmas event, for additional info contact american.society.panama@gmail.com

Hard Rock Hotel Panama Megapolis

Time:  7:30 – 11: 00 p. m.

Donation:

 Members $45.00       Non-members $55.00

Welcome Complimentary Wine

Cash Bar, Door Prizes, Dancing  and much more!

Valet Parking

Menu: Santa’s Rock
Barra Fría / Cold Station
Ensalada de Pasta, Salmón Ahumado y Maracuyá
Coctel de Camarones al Chipotle con Aguacate
Fiambres y Quesos Importados con Frutas Secas
Ceviche de Corvina con Manzana Verde
Ensalada de Papas Panameña con Vegetales

Barra Caliente / Main Entrees
Pavo Asado en Salsa de Fresas y Oporto
Pierna de Jamón Ahumada con Salsa de Ostras, Cardamomo y Anís
Medallones de Res con Trio de Hongos
Arroz con Almendras, Curry y Coco
Plátano en Tentación-Guayaba y Queso  Fresco
Bollos de la Abuela

Postres / Desserts
Tres Leches
Dulce de Frutas
Mocaccino Flan
Galletas de Navidad
Pan de Moña Artesanal con Almendras
Valet parking

InterNations Event in Panama City

Check http://www.internations.org/  for details:

 InterNations Panama City Official November Event @ La Fragata

Wed 25 Nov 19:30 - 23:30
La Fragata Panama 
Av. Samuel Lewis con calle 59 y 60, 
Panama City, Panama
Entrance Fee
Albatross Member Free
Basic Member $10
Please log in and click accept to enter for $10
Not signed up for event $15
Feel free to bring your international friends,
but please invite them to register for InterNations first.
✓ Welcome Drink
✓ Special Menu

U.S. Embassy visit to David 12-9-15

From email:

The American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Panama would like to inform U.S. citizens in Western Panama that we will be visiting David, Chiriqui on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 to provide consular services to U.S. citizens.

We will be at the Hotel Ciudad de David in David, Chiriqui from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9, 2015.  We will offer the following services:

-           Applications for U.S. passports (these services will be processed in Panama)

-           Passport Renewal (adults and minors)

-           Adding Pages to Passports (requires surrendering passport)

-           Lost or Stolen Passports

-           Notarizations

-           Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status (please bring from I-407 and Permanent Resident Card)

-           Voting Registration (Please print and complete the form at: http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=http://registertovote.org/index.html)

IMPORTANT NOTICE

1.         Please bring legible photocopies of all documents to be submitted.

2.         Please bring the exact cash amount to pay for the service.

3.         Please bring completed forms.  Please access the following link for information on fees, and forms you need to download, complete and bring:  http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=http://panama.usembassy.gov/service.html

A representative from the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) will be offering the following services:

-           Medicare enrollment/cancellation (copy of current passport or cedula will be required)

-           Application for SS replacement cards (copy of current US Passport)

-           Application for new SS card for children under age 12 (copy of US Passport for one of the parents, the child’s copia integra and passport)

-           Change of address/residence (copy of current passport or cedula will be required)

-           General inquiries

A representative from our Regional Security Office will be on hand to answer security questions.

Please note:  No visa services will be provided.  Services will be provided on first come - first serve basis.

Thank you for your assistance.  We look forward to seeing you.

Sincerely,

American Citizen Services

U.S. Embassy Panama

Hotels/Motels/B&B in the Panama Beaches area west of Panama City

Hotels/Motels/B&B in the Beaches area including Azuero Peninsular :

Casita Margarita B&B, Pedasí: www.pedasihotel.com email peashooter@gmail.com phone 995-2898 The owners are from Pennsylvania, U.S.

Coronado Bay Condos & Golf:

Liz Larroquette

Sales Coronado Bay & Coronado Golf

Tel. 345-3900

Cel. 6981-1717

Email: lizl@empresasbern.com

www.movetocoronadopanama.com

DeCameron Resort, Playa Blanca-Farallón just west of the Rio Hato airport

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g298431-d301154-Reviews-Royal_Decameron_Beach_Resort_Golf_Casino-Farallon_Playa_Blanca.html

Gaviota, Coronado

http://www.hotelgaviotapanama.com/index-1.html

Royalton Hotel, PlayaBlanca,

http://www.latinexplore.com/services/s2962_royalton-hotel-playa-blanca More info, see: http://www.thepanamanews.com/pn/v_17/issue_04/economy_13.html

Playa Venao-El SitioResort & Surf Club Azuero Peninsular (about 34 k past Pedasí) 6.5 hour drive west of Panama City,site of annual surf competition Email

elsitiopv@gmail.comPhone (597)-832-1010 

Rio Mar Surf & SkateCamp, Owned by canal tug captain AlanBarnes, Email:

riomarsurf@hotmail.com Web info: http://www.riomarsurf.com/  Phones:345-4010 or Cell 6675-2526

Santa Clara:

Sheraton Resort:  http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3693&language=en_US

XS Memories: http://xsmemories.com/   Phone: (011-507) 993-3096  XS is a restaurante/club/motel on the north side of the Pan Am hwy across from the old casino just before the Rio Hato airport,owned & operated by a retired Marine (now decreased R.I.P.)  & his wife Sheila.  XS is now operated by Sheila.

Some Organizations in Panama FYI

Some Panama organizations:

U.S. Navy League: PTY Navy League: http://navyleaguepanama.org/

American Society of Panama: http://www.amsoc.org/

 American.Society.Panama.gmail.com

Balboa Elks Lodge, La Boca Road: 

 http://www.elks.org/lodges/contactus.cfm?LodgeNumber=1414

Canadian ExPats in Panama: http://www.internations.org/expats/members/panama/canadians

InterNations:  See https://www.internations.org/

Panama Historical Society (No website), email:  panamahistorical@gmail.com

Eco/Nature/Birds/Fish Sites in Panamá

Eco/Nature/Birds/Fish Sites:

Barro Colorado Island: Gatun Lake, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute,see:

http://www.stri.si.edu/english/visit_us/barro_colorado/index.php

Canopy Tower Bird watching: near Gamboa, see:

http://www.canopytower.com/error.lasso

Eco Tours:

http://panamatraveltours.com/about_us.html

El Valle Butterfly House:  www.butterflyhavenpanama.com

Embera Village, see:

http://www.emberavillagetours.com

Gamboa Rain Forrest Resort: see:

http://www.gamboaresort.com/

Gamboa Ivan’s B&B:Birding Lodge (Bird Watching), see:

http://www.gamboaecotours.com/birding_tour.html

Panama Railroad, Though not eco itself, you will see a lot by ridingthe train. see:

http://www.panarail.com/home.html

Playa Venao: Azuero Peninsular, El Sitio beach & surf resort,see:

http://elsitiopv.com/

Smithsonian TropicalResearch Institute, Ancon, see:

http://www.stri.si.edu/

Taboga Island: Located just south of the Pacific entrance to thecanal, about a 35 minute launch ride to the island from the Amador causeway.See: http://www.tabogaislandpanama.com/  & http://www.taboga.panamanow.com/

Tranquilo Bay Eco Lodge

: Bocas del Toro, see:

http://www.tranquilobay.com/home.htm

Tropic Star Lodge, Piñas Bay,World class Marlin fishing: http://www.tropicstar.com/?source=navyleague

Whale Watching:

www.WhaleWatchingPanama.com

American Society of Panamá Thanksgiving event

From the American Society in Panama:

This year, we're going back to "tradition" for a really special Thanksgiving Dinner.

One big table, lots of dishes to pass around, family style! And you'll only be getting out of your seat to choose desert from a selection at the desert buffet!

WHEN: Sunday, November 22nd, 2015

WHERE: Wyndham Hotel, Albrook (Formerly Tryp Hotel)

TIME: 12:00pm - 3:00pm

ExPat Event in Panama City

InterNations event:

Wed 28 Oct 19:30 - 23:30
Panaviera Restaurant at Trump Hotel and Casino
Trump Ocean Club, 66th Floor, Ocean Sun Casino - Punta Pacifica
Panama City
See:  https://www.internations.org/event/promotion/details/1005561?rel=mailing&utm_medium=email&utm_source=event_mails&utm_campaign=event_invitation&utm_content=76_1005561

Help support a widow of a USMC veteran at XS Memories in Santa Clara

From a retired GI living in Panama:

"Let us help support a widow of a USMC veteran at XS 

Memories in Santa Clara. Oktoberfest is always a big event 

at XS Memories for many years. Sheila puts on some might 

good dishes. Hope to see you all there! ROBBY"

Times TBA I "assume", but you can always drop by, it's on 

the road just north of the old Santa Clara "casino" & just east

 of the "new" Rio Hato runways. ~~ Lou

American Society of Panama

 THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PANAMA

2016 Membership Drive & Incentives

The American Society Board of Directors extends an invitation to our community and our former members who would like to join or reinstate their membership.  The Board is renewing the membership drive offering incentives to past members encouraging them to return and making it attractive for new members to join the American Society of Panama. We have developed a very active and attractive calendar of events and want you to be part of these activities.  Details of some listed and unlisted events are still in the planning states.

Renew your dues at tomorrow’s Meet & Mix at the Panaviera Restaurant at the Trump Hotel.

1.       Monday,  Oct 5th   Meet & Mix  Trump Tower, Punta Pacifica, Panaviera Restaurant

2.       Saturday 17 October 3 PM – 5 PM   Meeting and a Celebration with our Scholarship Recipients   at the TRYP Hotel Albrook

3.    Thursday 22 October  - Ancon Theater Guild Night -  The 39 Steps – Featuring our own member Ingrid MacCartney as one of the lead actress’.

4.    Sunday 22 November – Thanksgiving Buffet Luncheon – 1 PM – 5 PM  -  TRYP Hotel, Albrook

4.     December: Christmas Dinner/Location to be announced .

5.     Monday, Jan 4h 2016  Meet & Mix – Welcoming the New Year!
6.    Saturday 23 January - El Valle Picnic – Hotel Campestre 12 noon- 4 pm followed by free Membership appreciation dinner-dance at the home of Dr. Charly Garcia starting at 6:30 PM –
 until the full moon goes over the mountain.
We are in the planning stages for the following Meet and Mix and monthly events, but below is tentative information:    

7.    Monday, Feb 01 - Meet & Mix – Location to be determined.

8.   Monday,  Mar 2nd  March Meet & Mix

9.   March – event to be announced

10.  Monday, April 6th  Meet & Mix

11.  April – Election Night Dinner Party

12.  Monday, May 4th  Meet & Mix

13.  May – Installation Dinner

Our website www.amsoc.org  is up and running and lists many of our past and upcoming events.  We need you to help us give back to the community. You the members are the pillars that sustain our organization.  Your support helps us meet our social, charitable and scholarship commitments.

WE NEED YOU: Our membership fee is the prime source of funding for our scholarship fund and our supported charities.

Founded in 1931, and after 84 years of existence, The American Society of Panama now has a membership that includes Americans and Panamanians, as well as citizens of other nations residing in Panama. We are a non-profit organization, and are duly recognized as such by the Panamanian Government.

Together we can do more!

The American Society of Panama is offering an Amnesty to members who have not paid their 2015 dues and to all past members who would now like to reinstate their membership by paying the regular membership renewal fee of $40.  

1.      We are waiving the penalty fee of $10 for all returning members.  
2.      In addition, those past members who return and rejoin between 01 Oct. & by 31 Dec. 2015 will have all arrears forgiven.  
3.     These returning, rejoining members and all new members as of 01 Sept. 2015 will also have that payment applied towards their 2016 dues.
4.     These returning-reinstated members and those that become new members between now and 31 Dec. 2015 will receive a 10% discount in their tickets for the upcoming Membership Drive event in El Valle on Saturday 23 Jan. 2016 and invited to join us at the complimentary Lasagna dinner party that evening at the private home of one of our members in El Valle.  
5.    There is a cost differential for our events for members and non-members.  Members will receive a $15 discount on all our events.  Those members that have not paid their 2015 dues will be assessed this $15 charge for all events as of 01 Nov.
 Our New Member fee is $50 and Membership Renewal is $40 and applicable for the calendar year and can be paid online at www.amsoc.org.  
We encourage potential new members to visit our website www.amsoc.org and to apply electronically for membership.  New members and renewing members may also pay their respective dues at any of our functions or give to one of our board members.

You may also contact us at American.Society.Panama@gmail.com for more information and to obtain your tickets for our upcoming events.

Dr. Charles Garcia                                                                                                                                                            Membership Chair                                                                                                                                                             Past President                                                                                                                                                                     The American Society of Panama

--
The American Society of Panama
"Americans and Friends United Abroad"
www.amsoc.org
american.society.panama@gmail.com

Wine Festival in Panama

Felipe Motta´s wine festival is a moment where wines are the main actor.
This year, Felipe Motta will allow us to test wines from Argentina, California, Spain, Chile, France, Italy, Germany and Australia. Additionally for the price of the ticket, you can eat different kind of cheese and meats that do pairing with wines of different places of the world.
Wine festival will happen 15 and 16 Oct.
Riu Hotel, Calle 50, see: http://www.felipemotta.com/details/57-xv-gran-feria-de-vinos.html?xref=58

Yellow Alert in Panama

From the U.S. Embassy in Panama:

Due to the presence of high tides on the Pacific Coasts, SINAPROC (Civil Protection Authority Panama) has issued a “Yellow Alert”, which advises all inhabitants on the Pacific Coast to take preventive measures due to high tides which could cause flooding in coastal areas. In their announcement dated September 25, 2015, SINAPROC indicated that high tides of about 18 feet are expected to continue until Saturday October 3, 2015.

A “Yellow Alert” is an advisory for individuals about high tides during a specific period and to warn the public to avoid coastal areas in the Pacific, due to unsafe swimming conditions and possibilities of flooding. The ETESA’s (Empresa de Transmisión Eléctrica) Hydrometeorology Department has also posted related information which includes recommendations to avoid unsafe conditions.

The alert indicates that the months of September, October and November are the rainiest of the year. Rivers and streams can overflow when heavy rains coincide with high tide, causing flooding in vulnerable areas.

SINAPROC also indicated that there is no restriction for swimming in beaches as long as safety preventive measures are observed. U.S. Embassy Panama advises all individuals to heed this warning until the Yellow Alert has been lifted.

Highway from Santiago to David

From ExPat blog about the highway from Santiago to David:

I traveled the Pan American Highway from Santiago to David last weekend. It is open all the way but is only two lanes; one each way. There are only a few short areas of alternating one lane only. From Santiago to the checkpoint in Chiriquí Provence the road is bad, mostly unrepaired old road. It is open but very rough. After the checkpoint to David it is mostly one side or the other of the new road. There are some rough "crossovers". Also there are a few spots where the second double lane needs to be cut and graded. Looks like a lot of four lane "could" be open soon. Took the "by-pass" through Soná on the way back to avoid the rough part. Except for the rain it would have been a beautiful drive. I got lost in Santiago and took a while to find the Pan American there. I needed a dedicated map of Santiago.

Comment from another ExPat who lives in Chiriquí

It will be a number of years yet before that construction is completed. Santiago to David is 6 times the distance from David to Boquete. It took 2 years to finish the double laning from David to Boquete. I expect another 5 years before completing. Rivers run through in many areas as the water runs from the mountains to the oceans. Bridges of all sizes are being built as a result. It is quite a landscape change but a much anticipated one..........

Map of Panama showing Santiago to David:  https://www.google.com/maps/@8.1296709,-81.7389944,10.69z

3rd bridge across canal on Atlantic side lacks of Funding.

3rd bridge across canal on Atlantic side lacks of Funding.

Funding for a Third Bridge over the Panama Canal

From the news:

PANAMA’S Canal Authority (ACP) is looking for international funding to complete the construction of the third bridge over the waterway in Colon.

The announcement was made in a Friday September 11 press release.

The construction of the bridge, began in January 2013 and is 34 percent complete. The ACP has an A-A2 investment grade rating from the credit agencies Moody´s, Standard & Poor´s and Fitch.

The amount of funding being sought has not yet been revealed.

The concrete structure supported by cables, similar to the Centenario Bridge, and will have a length of 4,605 meters, including access roads. It will cost an estimated $366 million.

Flooding in Panama

From Panama news:

PANAMA which, a few weeks ago, declared a state of emergency because of water shortage got its wishes for more of the wet stuff on Tuesday, August 8 when 20 parts of Panama City , San Miguelito, Panama West and Colon were affected by floods, following heavy rains,

 The civil defense agency SINAPROC also reported. 19 landslides in Colon and San Miguelito 10 reports of fallen trees in Panama center, West and Columbus and three residence walls collapsed residence walls in Panama City center, San Miguelito and Colon

New Panama Tours & Services website

FYI, from a contact I know in Panama,  Robby Robinson
Health Alliance (DoctorCare / WeCare Pharmabcy)
Veteran Service Officer PANAMA
SEE the REAL PANAMA Tours - Tour Guide/Owner
VONAGE (Stateside Line) 1-512-772-1401
Panama Cell      011-507-6-782-1193

See his new website:

http://seetherealpanamatours.com/

THE AMERICAN SOCIETY of PANAMA ANNUAL DRY SEASON EVENT

THE AMERICAN SOCIETY of PANAMA
ANNUAL DRY SEASON EVENT
Come and enjoy the day with us!
Date:  Saturday 23 January 2016
FIRST FULL MOON OF THE YEAR

Where:  HOTEL Campestre
       eL vALLE DE aNTON
Time: 11:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Menú (Comida Typica Panamaña)

Cost for members and non members to be announced. We will try to maintain same costs.
Tentative pricing:  Members
         Dues paid members:  $20 (2016 Dues must be paid by 23 Jan).
            Non-dues paid members: $30
            Children 12 years or under: FREE
Non-Members
    Non-members:  $35 - Children 12 years or under: $10

The party will continue that evening
at the home of Dr. Charly Garcia in El Valle with
   our complimentary Annual Lasagna Dinner & Dance Party starting at 6:30 PM.  Live Music.
                  Free ONLY FOR MEMBERS IN GOOD STANDING (dues paid)
or those wishing to make a $30 donation to the Scholarship and Charities funds of The American Society of Panama
Bus transportation
Will be available for those that wish to go just for the day and if the interest is sufficient for those wishing to stay overnight.

For your convenience and assistance, our Dry Season Picnic coordinator and El Valle resident Dr. Charly Garcia
has put together the following list of lodging and options of things to do.

We hope you plan on making the AmSoc dry season event a weekend outing.  If you decide to do so, we recommend that you make your reservations as soon as possible as Dry Season, and especially January is the high season for El Valle and last minute hotel rooms are difficult to come by.

For those staying overnight and wanting to take advantage of a family outing with your children we suggest the following events:
1.     Zip-line (Canopy Adventure) 983-6547 & Fax 263-2784
2.     Bird Watching (Guias Pioneros de Cocle) Cell. 6569-2676
3.     Hiking the India Dormida (Sleeping Indian Princess) Efrain Trujillo Cel 6591-1991
4.     Guide to the India Dormida (Sleeping Indian Princess)  Cell. 6615-8181
5.     El Nispero Zoo
6.     El Valle Museum,  Sr. David & Padre Noto, by Catholic Church, Cell. 6524-9790
7.     Visit Orchid Center (APROVACA) Tel. 983-6472
8.     Serpentarium  Cell. 6569-2676
9.     Thermal Pools Cell. 6621-3846
10. Local Farmers and Artesan Market
11. Piedra Pintada (Petroglyphs)   Cell. 6615-8181
12. The Butterfly Haven (NEW) – See a myriad of butterflies in their natural environment.

It is stressed that AmSoc is not endorsing or recommending any particular hotel, we are just providing a list to help you in your search.
We remind you to contact and make your own reservations directly with the establishment you choose.
                  1. Hotel Campestre  983-6146   Recently remodeled, one of the oldest hotels in El Valle built in 1939 has 20+ rooms with private baths.
http://hotelcampestre.com/  Tel: 983-6135
Email: Hotel Campestre<reservaciones@hotelcampestre.com>;

                   2.  Anton Valley Hotel
Tel.  983-6097 or  983-5118
This is located in front of the Catholic Church and has an excellent restaurant.
                            http://antonvalleyhotel.com/contact.htm

                   3.  Hotel y Restaurante Valle Verde                                                                                                                                  Formerly known as Hotel Los Capitanes, renamed and under new management.                                                                                     info-valleverde.com // reservas@hotel-valleverde.com

                         Nuevo Sitio Web: ·      http://el-valle-panama.com/                    
                         Teléfono: (+507) 983-6080
             Teléfono Celular: (+507) 647-18250   Great restaurant.  I consider this to be a very special place with a very special atmosphere.

                     4.   The Golden Frog Inn: Presently not available as B&B.  Will advise when status changes.
                             8 rooms, Suites  
                            One of the nicest places to stay.  Pleasant, huge pool, fireplaces.
                            One of my favorites.
                Phone: 983-6117                  Cell Phone: 6565-8307
                        goldenfroginn@yahoo.com
                        http://www.goldenfroginn.com/lodging.html

        5.    Hotel Rincon Vallero:
14 Rooms Tel #: 983-6175/264-9119 / 983-6791  Includes breakfast.
Info: info@centroderesservas.net and their website is at http://hotelrinconvallero.com/  Excellent restaurant.

                  6.   Park Eden Bed & Breakfast:
           5 rooms Tel #: 983-6167 / 226-8858 / 6695-6190
           Info:  www.parkeden.com & parkeden@cwpanama.net    5+ rooms, includes full breakfast for 2 persons per room,                      additional cost per each additional person.  No restaurant.
         
                     7.    La Casa de Lourdes      
           El Valle de Antón, Panama  Hotel: 983-6645    Restaurant:  983-6450
            Info@lacasadelourdes.com         http://www.lacasadelourdes.com/
Gourmet breakfast included...exclusive cuisine &  accommodations...where the IN people dine. Best restaurant and best hotel complex in the area. People drive up from Panama City and adjacent areas to dine and wine in style. The Casa de Lourdes has available rooms and a renowned gourmet restaurant owned and run by Lourdes Fabrega de Ward.

           8.  Los Mandarinos Boutique Hotel & Spa
(adjacent and part of a magnificent complex with   Casa de Lourdes)
Boutique Hotel & Restaurante  http://www.losmandarinos.com/
info@losmandarinos.com          Hotel: 983-6645  / 6808-2743
        Best hotel complex in the area. Hotel has beautiful buildings, very nice accommodations,  Irish Pub, Pool, & restaurant.  People drive up from Panama City and adjacent areas to dine and wine in at the sister complex, The Casa de Lourdes and stay at either Casa de Lourdes which also has several rooms and a renowned gourmet restaurant, or they stay at Los Mandarinos Boutique Hotel & Spa. which is a complex of Italian style buildings providing 31 guest rooms with magnificent accommodations, spa, pool, Irish pub, + restaurant.  Not inexpensive, but the finer moments in our lives usually aren't cheap.

                 9.    Crater Valley Adventure Spa:
              8 Rooms Tel #: 983-6942  / 215-2325 / Fax 215-2329
              http://www.crater-valley.com/
              info@crater-valley.com   Tel #: 215-2325 / 215-2328 & 983-6942
              Fax: 215-2329  Among the best in El Valle. Has pool, sauna, massage parlor, beauty saloon, and lush grounds. Expect it to be pricey, but worth it. Good restaurant.
                10.  Cabañas Potosi
               Tel # 983-6181/ 6946-6148
http://www.antonvalley.com/hotels/cabanas-potosi/
e-mail: cabanas.potosi@elvalle.com.pa

                11.   Hostal Cariguana
           Tel # 983-6269  6598-5122
                             http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g635545-d1958890-Reviews- Hostal_Cariguana-El_Valle_de_Anton_Cocle_Province.html
                12.   Hotel Don Pepe
http://www.antonvalley.com/hotels/hotel-don-pepe/
Hotel Don Pepe +507 983-6425  (After 6pm call  +507 983-6835 )
    13.  Casa de Pietra
                                Cell phone: 6675-6901
                                    http://www.casadipietra.    
                                    https://www.facebook.com/casadipietrapanama/info?tab=overview

Note:  There are many other nice Hotels in El Valle. http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g635545-El_Valle_de_Anton_Cocle_Province-Hotels.html
Please do a search for more available hotel information.

The American Society of Panama
"Americans and Friends United Abroad"
www.amsoc.org

Repairs and Maintenance of the Bridge of the Americas

From the internet (from prior news I understood the whole bridge was going to be closed for repairs?):

PANAMA’S Ministry of Works (MOP) will be working on repairs and maintenance of the Bridge of the Americas for the next 10 months, which means the closing of some lanes. The timetable the Ministry has given for September is:

8 a.m. to 5:30 pmClosing of a lane, with an approximate length of 100 meters. Two operating lanes to La Chorrera, One operating lane to Panama City or vice versa.

8:00 pm - 4:30 am. Closing a south side or north side lane, with an approximate length of 100 meters. North side lanes operating, one to La Chorrera and the other to Panama Centro or vice versa.

PANAMA’S fourth bank robbery this year

From the internet news:

PANAMA’S fourth bank robbery this year took place in Versailles, Juan Díaz, on Tuesday morning, August 1.

Thieves in a stolen car, robbed a Banco General branch,
The amount of money taken is unknown so far.

FALL OUT FROM TROPICAL STORM ERIKA PANAMA BOUND

From the internet:

FALL OUT FROM TROPICAL STORM ERIKA PANAMA BOUND

SOME OF PANAMA’S drought woes may be alleviated in the 72 hours prior to noon, on Tuesday September 1 with a possible spill over from tropical storm Erika, making its way across the Caribbean.

The National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) issued an alert on Friday, August 28 warning of possible moderate to heavy rain showers across most of the country.

The notice was issued in order to alert areas prone to floods and landslides said Sinaproc CEO, José Donderis.

Moderate to heavy rains are expected with storms in the provinces of Darien Embera regions # 1 and # 2, Panama, Panama West, Guna Yala region, Colon, Cocle, Herrera, Los Santos, Veraguas, Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro.

TURKEY ADDS DIRECT FLIGHTS TO PANAMA

From the internet:

TURKEY ADDS DIRECT FLIGHTS TO PANAMA

PANAMA, already defined in terms of air and sea transport as "the hub of the Americas", is opening its runways to additional airlines at an inceasing pace.

Turkish Airlines has announced it will begin service three times a week between Istanbul and Panama City next February.
The flight will exceed 13 hours.

Recently, Emirates Airlines announced it would be adding service between Panama City and Dubai, which on its westward journey will b the longest non stop flight in the world.

Those flights, as well as ones being added by Lufthansa, "represent a significant contribution to the 9.5 percent growth of the annual traffic at Tocumen International Airport, which will reinforce its position as the leading regional hub in Latin America," said a Tocumen International Airport spokesman.

The Emirates flight will be 13,821 kilometers and last 17 hours and 35 minutes. That will exceed the current longest flight in the world, which is between Sydney (Australia) and Dallas (United States) and operated by the Australian airline Qantas.

DROUGHT STILL HITTING CANAL AND HOMES

From the internet:

DROUGHT STILL HITTING CANAL AND HOMES

PANAMA’S WATER worries which led to the recent declaration of a state of emergency, could continue into and though 2016 which threatens to be an even drier year.

The administrator of the Authority of the Panama Canal (ACP), Jorge Luis Quijano, warned Wednesday August 16 that it could announce a further increase of restricted draft of ships in the waterway, due to lack of rains in the coming days and the drought caused by the El Nino phenomenon.

Quijano reported that the canal company has taken the first step in reduce the draft of vessels by six inches which will be implemented from September.

but the possibility of a further drop in the draft is being studied.
 Quijano said in previous statements that restricting depth of 6 inches would affect only 5 of the 34 ships passing daily through the Canal.

Maximum allowable draft will be 11.89 meters (39 feet) in fresh water, and will apply from September 8, 2015.

The maximum authorized draft is defined in terms of the deepest point of immersion specific to each ship on Lake Gatun.A press release explained that the measures would not significantly affect the efficiency and capacity of canal operations. because "the rains that have fallen in recent days have somewhat stabilized Gatun Lake, but have not increased the level in an important way."

Guijano added: In 2016 we are going to have a very dry year, but we are doing everything possible to minimize the impact and to maintain lake levels”
He said that if the situation in the reservoirs of the waterway does not improve, the likelihood that the lakes will be filled by December is very low.

"This is worrying so we have to look for more sources of water, "he said.

The drought has caused the levels of consumption of industrial and drinking water, programmed by the ACP for 2025 to be exceeded.

CLOSING OF ALBROOK AIRPORT FACING OPPOSITION

From internet news, photo of Albrook from Ancon Hill and behind on Administration building in an old calendar photo:

CLOSING OF ALBROOK AIRPORT FACING OPPOSITION

Opposition to the closure of Albrook Airport as part of the planning for a fourth bridge over the Canal continues to grow.

Consideration is being given to relocating the activities currently carried out in the airport Marcos A. Gelabert, to the airport at Howard, now part of Panama Pacifico.

Directors of the Panamanian Aviation Association (APA) have expressed their disagreement to lawmakers in the Commission on Communication and Transport of the National Assembly.

The president of the APA, Jaime Fabrega said that the Albrook airport is in a strategic location "... it is six kilometers from both the Children's Hospital and the Hospital Santo Tomas which is where over 80% of aeromedical evacuations go.... He also mentioned that it is within four kilometers of the Albrook transport terminal, a bus and Metro subway hub"
"... At the Albrook Marcos Gelabert airport there are 15 plane and helicopter maintenance companies, plus there is an airline that does important work for the community, both domestically and internationally."

WORLD’S LONGEST NONSTOP FLIGHT PANAMA BOUND

From internet news:

WORLD’S LONGEST NONSTOP FLIGHT PANAMA BOUND

THE LONGEST nonstop flight in the world will have Panama as its destination from February 1, 2016.Emirates airline has announced plans to launch services to Panama City, the gateway to Central America.

Service will operate through Tocumen International Airport (PTY), and will start a daily flight operated by a Boeing 777-200LR in a design class 3-8 in First, 42 in Business and 216 in Economy.
Th plane can also carry up to 15 tons of cargo. Key imports will include pharmaceuticals, machinery, iron, steel rods, and electronics.
"The City of Panama is the first gateway to Central America, providing a convenient option for our passengers traveling from or through our global hub in Dubai and onwards to destinations throughout Central America, the Caribbean and the northern part of South America, "said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline & Group.
"We are also pleased to be the only commercial airline to offer first class service for travelers daily in what will be the world's longest flight," said the company.

PANAMA DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY

From the internet news:

PANAMA DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY

THE EL NIÑO weather pattern, which has affected 70 percent of the country has caused a shortage of rain, which has impacted farmers and hydroelectric production, as well as the operations of the Panama Canal, leadingauthorities to declare a state of emergncy.

Minister of the Environment Mirei Endara said this afternoon that authorities do not want to provoke a panic, but they "are trying to be responsible" and take the necessary measures to prepare for an extended drought.

Endara said that rainfall for the months of October and November will be 50 percent lower than in previous years.

She added that measures will be taken to save the water. They will be governed by the ministry with the assistance of the ministries of Health and Agriculture as well as the waste and sewer authority (IDAAN)

Other agencies involved will be the Public Services Authority, the Panama Canal Authority, the civil defense agency Sinaproc, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Works reports La Prensa.

CANAL EXPANSION STRIKE AVOIDED

From internet news:

CANAL EXPANSION STRIKE AVOIDED

The looming strike of construction workers, which threatened to delay the completion of the Panama Canal expansion project, by April 2016, has been avoided.

Leaders of the Suntracs union ha ve reached an agreement with the consortium Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) that will avoid a work stoppage on the third set of locks.

The union had sought an increase of more than 8 percent for the 6,000 workers involved in the work.

The parties agreed to an increase of $4.81 an hour for qualified workers and 5 percent for other categories, retroactive to July 1.

The Panama Canal Authority had requested the contractor endeavor to resolve the labor dispute as soon as possible to avoid the negative effect on the expansion, which is 93 percent complete.

WATER CRISIS IN RAIN SOAKED PANAMA

From the internet: 

WATER CRISIS IN RAIN SOAKED PANAMA

PANAMA is the biggest consumer, or most wasteful of water In Latin America but the supply in not infinite and with population growth forced the government has been to seek other water sources to meet the demand for drinking water.

Lakes Gatun and Alajuela, located within the watershed of the Panama Canal, are the sources of supply for the Canal's operations, but also provide water for 1.9 million people or more than 55 percent of the country's population, reports La Prensa.

According to Canal Administrator Jorge Luis Quijano, the forecast of water consumption for the population in 2025 is 362 million gallons per day.
Panama is one of the countries with the highest water consumption rate in Latin America. According to a study, each person consumes 100 gallons of water per day or 379 liters, while the average in the region is 48 gallons or 177 liters.

"The state must lead the search for new water sources to meet the growing demand for human and industrial consumption resulting from economic and population growth," Quijano said.

The ACP operates and manages three water plants, which are located in Miraflores, La Chorrera and Colón. Lake Alajuela also supplies raw water to the plant in Chilibre, the largest in the country.

What is worrying, according to Quijano, is that new plants are being planned that are also located within the basin of the Panama Canal, which also needs the water to operate the locks.

He said the amount of water in the basin is not endless, and a long-term plan is needed to serve both interests.

Puerto Armuelles

From the internet:

Puerto has one of the most scenic ocean walks and has had plenty of history when Chiriqui Banana Company was there, There is a landing strip, golf course, administrative housing and a funky ocean front town. It also has plenty of crime since the company left and the unemployment rate went up and drugs became a plague there. Things could change if they fixed up the port.

The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has selected the company Nathan Associates to develop, within three months, a business model to develop the port.

The project will include analysis and identification of the potential to attract investors to the market.
According to Prensa.com, “… this development plan … seeks to identify viable options for creating business opportunities and alternatives for intermodal transport and logistics systems … .”
Jorge Barakat, manager of AMP stated”… that over these months, international companies and diplomatic missions have shown interest on the part of companies from their countries in participating in the development project of Puerto Armuelles and others which will soon be implemented by the AMP … “
Source: Prensa.com

American Society in Panama

American Society in Panama, if you are in Panama, American & not a member, consider joining:

        The American Society of Panama
       “2015 Grand Panama Gala & Art Auction” Committee

Dear Members of The American Society of Panama:

The American Society of Panama “2015 Grand Panamá Gala & Art Auction” Committee has begun their campaign to ask for donations for their live art auction and silent auction to be held on Saturday August 22, 2015.  This very special and exclusive event includes some of Panama’s best artistic talent and will be hosted at the prestigious Residencia 107, in Ancon where the Administrator of the Panamá Canal Authority resides. 100% of the proceeds of this auction will support the charities & scholarships sponsored by the American Society of Panamá.  We hope that you will assist us with a generous contribution.

 Thanks to the generosity of our members last year, our fund raising gala was so successful that we were able to double the number of scholarship for 2015. We have set an ambitious goal to raise $20,000 for our charitable and scholarship programs this year.

Much work has already been done and some key volunteers have stepped forward to head up committees.  There is a lot of work to do in preparation for the event and we are counting on your support.

As of today we have 38 items for the silent auction.  We are putting them in 10 categories of:  Travel, Entertainment, Sports, Food and Wine, Home and Office, Health and Beauty, Fashion and Jewelry, Arts and Handcrafts, Memorabilia and Collectibles, and Cooking lessons, Hosting a party or dinner, etc.

We are asking you to help with donations to this silent auction.  You probably have skills or items to donate that you aren’t even aware that you have. Can you bake a cake or special dessert for a party; cater a small diner party, lunch, or picnic. How about make an interesting pillow or quilt, provide a service (Spanish lessons, computer repair, decorate for a party, give art classes, or sing for a group).  Or you can approach your favorite restaurants that would be willing to donate dinner-for-two gift certificates.  Or you can ask your favorite store for a contribution, an item of value that can be used in the auction.  You will be surprised, many are willing to donate towards a worthy cause, someone just has to approach them and ask.

Please also let us know if you will be making a donation or know someone you can contact and ask for a donation in one of the 10 categories listed above.  We of course also accept cash.

Volunteers are still needed:  If you have knowledge in a specific area or just want to help out in any way you can, either in advance of the event and/or on the day itself, please review the following committees and tell us what you’d like to do by sending an email to American.society.panama@gmail.com and indicate what committee you could help:

(1)    Artists & Artwork, (2) Finance, (3) Marketing, (4) Administration, (5) Live Auction, (6) Silent Auction, (7) Sponsorship/Gifts or (8) help on the day of the event, August 22nd.      

Remember all contributions to the American Society of Panamá are tax deductible in the Republic of Panamá. The American Society of Panamá with R.U.C. 3482-2-12829 DV86 is inscribed and registered according to Resolution 201-108 de 16 enero 2006 as a non-profit organization entitled to receive donations which the donor may deduct from taxes.

Thank you for your support.

Nicholas W. Polit

President
--
The American Society of Panama
"Americans and Friends United Abroad"
american.society.panama@gmail.com
www.amsoc.org

4th of July Party sponsored by The American Society of Panama at the Sheraton Hotel - Convention Center

From the American Society of Panama:

4th of July Party sponsored by The American Society of Panama at the Sheraton Hotel - Convention Center

Please obtain your tickets for the upcoming
4th of July party at the Sheraton.

Join us Saturday 4th of July at our
Independence Day Festivities
Sponsored by
The American Society of Panama
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

The American Society of Panama

4th of July Celebration

Sheraton Hotel – Atlapa Convention Center

American and Friends United Abroad

ENJOY A FAMILY AND GETAWAY DAY WITH THE AMERICAN EXPATS IN PANAMA FROM 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM – POOLSIDE RESTAURANTS AND ENTERTAINMENT AREA.

KIDS -FREE ENTRY UNDER 6 YEARS!

EXTEND YOUR STAY AT THE ALOFT HOTEL – DISCOUNTED RATES AVAILABLE CONTACT INFO@SAVVYLINK.NET LIMITED SPACES, BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE TODAY AT http://www.amsoc.org

Donations towards events

Inquiries: Keila 6033-6563 or Cedric 6612-5663 and American.society.panama@gmail.com

9:00 AM –6:00 PM

DONATIONS:

$30pp members
$45pp non-members
For American BBQ Buffet
From 11:30 am to 2 pm Add $10pp for all day pool access.
CASH BAR.

AMSOC.ORG

Apartado Postal 0843-00166
Panama, Rep. de Panama
Cell 1.507.6747-6762

Visit our website for more information: www.amsoc.org

Obtain your tickets from one of the members listed or visit our websitehttp://www.amsoc.org
and go to Donations towards events for online reservation via credit card.
Mark Scheinbaum 6788-4580 Caridad Aguilar 6617-8581
Charlotte Pierce 6527-8906 Eunice Greaves 6616-1896
Itzel de DeVaney 230-6459 Lee Lukes 6678-5320
Hari Singh 6758-9854 Cedric Gittens 6612-5663
Nick Polit 6238-8743 Keila Mulero 6033-6563
Jorge Estemac 221-1292 Scott Crystal 6611-8993
Frank Atteberry 6673-6788 Richard Mehrer 6657-5806
Eunice Greaves 229-4009 & 6616-1896
Dr. Charly Garcia Dental Clinic or 6618-8877
“Promises” – Calle 74E San Francisco 270-7457
Coronado Beach Area – Clemencia Kelley-Watson 6682-1472
American Society cell phone 6747-6762

--
The American Society of Panama
"Americans and Friends United Abroad"

Americans And Friends United Abroad

Americans And Friends United Abroad

AMSOC.ORG

Message for U.S. Citizens: Reminder - Outreach in David, Panama June 2015

From the U.S. Embassy in Panama:

Message for U.S. Citizens: Reminder - Outreach in David, Panama June 2015

The American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Panama would like to remind U.S. citizens in Western Panama that we will be visiting David, Chiriqui on Wednesday, June 17, 2015 to provide consular services to U.S. citizens. PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN FEDERAL BENEFITS SERVICES BELOW.

We will be at the Hotel Ciudad de David in David, Chiriqui from 9:00a.m. to 3:00p.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2015. We will offer the following services:

- Applications for U.S. passports (these services will be processed in Panama)

- Passport Renewal (adults and minors)

- Lost or Stolen Passports

- Notarization

- Voting Registration (Please print and complete the form at:http://registertovote.org/index.html)

IMPORTANT NOTICE

1. Please bring photocopies of all documents to be submitted.

2. Please bring the exact cash amount to pay for the service.

3. Please bring completed forms. Please access the following link for information on fees, and forms you need to download, complete and bring: http://panama.usembassy.gov/service.html.

A representative from the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) will be offering the following services:

- Proof of life forms will NOT be processed during this outreach event

- Applications for Social Security Benefits (visit the following link for the list of required supporting documents:http://panama.usembassy.gov/benefits.html)

- Medicare enrollment/cancellation (copy of current passport or cedula will be required)

- Application for SS replacement cards (copy of current US Passport)

- Application for new SS card for children under age 12 (copy of US Passport for one of the parents, the child’s copia integra and passport)

- Change of address/residence (copy of current passport or cedula will be required)

- General inquiries

Please note: No visa services will be provided. Services will be provided on first come - first serve basis.

Thank you for your assistance. We look forward to seeing you