This issue is out a bit late --- our webmaster's Internet Service Provider was out of service for several days last week --- so it's coming out in the middle of Carnival, rather than just before.

During the first two days of Carnival ten people died, most of them children who drowned. The deadliest places were Panama's rivers.

Because we have had occasional rains continuing into what's supposed to be dry season, there's more water in the rivers, and currents can sweep away even the strongest swimmers. Sadly, it also appears that some of the drownings were of small children whose parents were not paying attention, whether it was because they were recklessly intoxicated or merely negligent.

Panama's greatest outdoor attractions are its waters --- two oceans, plus freshwater lakes and rivers. Let's all be careful to enjoy them safely.

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