Welcome to the Tico Times Daily News Updates Archive Page.
Click on the link to go to the appropriate story.

For 2002 Daily News Updates Click Here | 2003 Daily Archives Click Here
2004 Daily Archives Click Here | 2005 Daily Archives Click Here | 2006 Daily Archives Click Here


Week of January 5 - 9, 2004

Monday, January 5:
Priest Arrested in Connection with Radio Journalist's Murder
Slow Year for the Legislative Assembly
Ombudsman Criticizes Lack of Human Development in 2003

Tuesday, January 6:
Costa Rican and U.S. Negotiators Reunite for Free-Trade Talks
RECOPE Requests Increase In Petroleum Prices
Costa Rica Expects Improved Economy

Wednesday, January 7:
Child Welfare Minister Gil: Only 10 Homeless Kids Left in San José
Costa Rica Complies With U.S. Air Safety Requirements

Thursday, January 8:
All Quiet on the Free-Trade Front
Region's Underemployment Deemed Problematic

Friday, January 9:
Organization Questions Homeless Child Figures
Road Block Results in Seizure Of 107 Kilograms of Cocaine
Copa del Café Ends Saturday

Return To Top Of Page


Week of January 12 - 16, 2004

Monday, January 12:
Environment Minister Announces Settlement Negotiations with U.S. Oil Firm
From Miami to Monterrey: 10 Years, Four Summits and Enduring Poverty

Tuesday, January 13:
Suspect in Case of Slain Journalist Given Conditional Liberty
Country Issues $250 Million in Bonds
Study Warns of Imminent Earthquake in Pacific Region
Tico "Burro" Arrested in Airport

Wednesday, January 14:
IMAS President: Major Victories In Country's War against Poverty
National Emergency Commission Helped 10,000 Tico in 2003

Thursday, January 15:
Executive and Legislators Agree To Plan to Approve Fiscal Reform
Central Bank: Strong Growth and Lower Than Average Inflation Target in 2004
Microsoft Signs Agreement With Education Ministry

Friday, January 16:
Countdown to CAFTA
Palmares Up and Running
Two Tickets Waiting For True Misfits Fans
U.S. Embassy Closed Monday for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Return To Top Of Page


Week of January 19 - 23, 2004

Monday, January 19:
Priest, Businessman Lose Appeals
U.S., C.R. Authorities to Meet About International Adoptions
Palmares: A Disaster Waiting to Happen

Tuesday, January 20:
Unions Prepare Coalition to Defeat CAFTA 'In The Streets'
Police Detain 47 Nicaraguans During Search for Murder Suspect
Two Tickets Waiting For True Misfits Fans

Wednesday, January 21:
Costa Rican Named Vice-President Of U.N. Human Rights Council
Group Denounces ICT Actions in Papagayo
One Bid Received For Highway to San Ramón
Samsung to Supply Fast Internet
Two Tickets Waiting For True Misfits Fans

Thursday, January 22:
Harris Goes On Trial Today in Guatemala
Government to 'Relaunch' Education
Costa Rica, Nicaragua Discuss Immigrant Labor Policy

Friday, January 23:
Three Children Dead After Domestic Incident
Ecological Communities Receive Blue Flag of Recognition
Costa Rica, U.S. Tackle Sensitive Agricultural Products in Trade Agreement

Return To Top Of Page


Week of January 19 - 23, 2004

Monday, January 26:
Costa Rica Successfully Finishes Free-Trade Negotiations with U.S.
Forest Plantations See Success with Native Trees
Ex-President Figueres to Judge $1-Million Sustainability Prize

Tuesday, January 27:
Unions Blast CAFTA, Vow to Stop Treaty
Government Hosts Immigration Forum
Conclusions in Harris Trial Expected Today

Wednesday, January 28:
Government Creates New Domestic Violence Commission
Trejos: CAFTA Will Not Hurt Country's Social Security System
New Ombudsman in Limón Receives Nearly 1,600 Complaints

Thursday, January 29:
Information Technology Summit Held Here
Protest Planned Against Settlement with Oil Company
Enrollment Open for Workshops With Nobel Peace Laureates

Friday, January 30:
President to Send Bill Punishing Violence Against Women to Congress
Environmentalists, Deputies Protest Harken Settlement Negotiations
Some CAFTA Texts Made Public

Return To Top Of Page


Week of February 2 - 6, 2004

Monday, February 2:
Child Advocate Harris Cleared of Criminal Charges in Guatemala
Today is Worldwide Day of Wetlands
Nicaragua Asks Costa Rica to Respect Immigrants' Human Rights
Pavarotti: Forgettable Music At a Night to Remember

Tuesday, February 3:
Construction Grew 41% Last Year
Donation Brings Northern Zone One Step Closer to San José
Fishing Equipment Seized In Waters Near Cocos Island
Small Bills, Commemorative Coins Officially Out of Circulation

Wednesday, February 4:
Pacheco Will Go to Washington To Lobby for Trade Agreement
Government Increases Public Housing Bonds
Ministry of Agriculture Introduces "Perfect" Papaya

Thursday, February 5:
Canada Endorses Country's Candidate for OAS Secretary
Dengue Fever Reaches New High
Police Seize More Assault Weapons

Friday, February 6:
Costa Rica Given Green Light to Resume Shrimp Exports to U.S.
Tourism Institute Defends $100,000 Pavarotti Expenditure
Pacheco Announces Construction Of a Soccer Stadium in Limón
Health Ministry to Increase Monitoring of Industrial Contaminants

Return To Top Of Page


Week of February 9 - 13, 2004

Monday, February 9:
Osvaldo Villalobos Back Behind Bars
Mexico Endorses Country's Candidate for OAS Secretary
Another Commission Will Study Fiscal Reform
Peace Prize Winners Host Public Conference

Tuesday, February 10:
Cab Drivers Protest Against 'Pirate Cabbies'
Poultry Farmers: Country At Low Risk for Avian Flu
Connectivity Agreement Will Put Schools Online

Wednesday, February 11:
Government Promises to Make Small Farmers More Competitive
U.S. Ambassador Danilovich Nominated for Brazilian Post
Three Colombians Arrested During Maritime Drug Bust

Thursday, February 12:
Environmentalists, Community Vow to Stop Miramar Gold Mine
More Colombians Seek Asylum
Donation from Japan Will Help Build Operating Room

Friday, February 13:
Country to Host Water Conference
North America Vets Coming to Study Sloths
Private Hospital Hosts Drug-Prevention Clinics

Return To Top Of Page


Week of February 16 - 20, 2004

Monday, February 16:
Florida Governor Jeb Bush Begins Two-Day Visit
Divorces Doubled In Past Eight Years
ICE Improves Public Phones For Disabled Users

Tuesday, February 17:
Jeb Bush: I'm a Friend of Costa Rica and CAFTA
Costa Rican Authorities Reinforce Adoption Controls
Authorities Deport 45 Undocumented Immigrants
Social Institute Invests in Education

Wednesday, February 18:
Sexual Diversity Center Will Open Today
Dozens Protest Against CAFTA
More Evidence Sought In School Shooting
Public Works Minister Unveils Plan to Aid Government Contracting

Thursday, February 19:
U.S. Coast Guard Commandant To Visit Costa Rica Today
Japan Donates $130,000 to Help Indigenous Communities Affected by Dam
Costa Rica Asks Venezuelan Leader to Respect Rules of Asylum
Zoological Center Denounces TV Report

Friday, February 20:
President Pacheco Begins 12-Day World Journey
Police Arrest Leaders Of Local Drug Ring
Universidad Nacional Honors Holland

Return To Top Of Page


Week of February 23 - 27, 2004

Monday, February 23:
Director General of WTO Visits Costa Rica Today
Sea Turtle Experts Meet in Ostional

Tuesday, February 24:
Pacheco Pledges to Support Colombia's War Against Drug Traffickers
New Awards Honor Real Estate Projects
Experts Discard Volcanic Activity At Northern Zone's Cerro Platanar

Wednesday, February 25:
Zoellick: Caribbean Basin Initiative Not Permanent
Study Shows Sea Turtles Are Worth More Alive than Dead
Violence: An "Underreported" Obstacle to Development
Presidents of Costa Rica, Mexico Hope to Reform U.N. Security Council

Thursday, February 26:
Education Minister Directs School Staffs to Search Suspicious Bags
AmCham Says CAFTA Approval Requires Only 29 Deputy Votes

Friday, February 27:
Pacheco Honored by U.S. Group For Fight Against Cloning
Golfito Airport Partially Closed For Runway Repairs
Fiscal Reform Deadline Extended Until March 6

Return To Top Of Page


Week of March 1 - 5, 2004

Monday, March 1:
Women's Soccer Team Advances to Semifinals
Domestic Violence Bill Obtains Initial Approval
Finance Minister in France To Recover Nicaraguan Debt

Tuesday, March 2:
Study: Country's Mangroves At "Point of Collapse"
Borrowed Cranes Make Short Work Of Traffic Light Repairs
Study Calls ICE a Model for Latin American Countries

Wednesday, March 3:
New Aquatic Wildlife Protection Movement Under Way
Central American Presidents in Spain
Universidad Nacional Discovers New Worms

Thursday, March 4:
NASA Search for Central American Archeology Lands in Costa Rica
Plant, Flower Exports Continue to Grow
Costa Rican Man Places Second in World Coffee-Tasting Competition
Agriculture Ministry Announces New Measures to Prevent Avian Flu

Friday, March 5:
Trejos Discusses Trade in Europe
Mother and Son Arrested On Charges of Selling Drugs
Financial Sector Will Pay Higher Taxes If Fiscal Reform is Approved
Region's Ombudsmen Propose Abolition Of Corporal Punishment Against Children

Return To Top Of Page


Week of March 8 - 12, 2004

Monday, March 8:
Commission Fails to Move Forward With Tax Plan
Legislative Assembly Rejects U.S.-Backed Police Academy
International Women's Day Celebrated in Central Valley
National Geographic Institute Discredits Map of Costa Rica

Tuesday, March 9:
Latin American Police Training in Costa Rica
Government Creates Fund to Aid Small And Medium Businesses Seeking Credit
Infant Mortality Rate Drops More Than Half
Bioresonance Expert Offers Courses

Wednesday, March 10:
Scientists Isolate Potential Anti-Malarial Compound from Costa Rican Tree
Police Leads Investigation Of "Massive Concentration"
Price of Steel Rods Stabilizes

Thursday, March 11:
Tourism Industry Expects Excellent Year in 2004
Public Security Ministry Welcomes 304 New Officers
Producers Begin Chiverre Harvest In Preparation for Semana Santa

Friday, March 12:
President Declares National Mourning Following Spanish Terror Bombings
High-School Dropout Rate Drops to 14-Year Low
Workshop Studies Problem-Solving Through Family Constellations
Cold Winds, Floods Rattle the Country

Return To Top Of Page


Week of March 15 - 19, 2004

Monday, March 15:
Memorials Held Here for Victims of Madrid Bombings
Priest Suspected of Involvement in Journalist’s Death Released from Prison
Region’s Oil Distributors Request Joint Purchases

Tuesday, March 16:
Environment Minister Stands Firm Against Negotiations with Harken
Central American Water Tribunal Begins Second Public Audience
Ministry of Economy Celebrates
Costa Rica Congratulates Russia, Spain for Their Elections

Wednesday, March 17:
Officials: Poaching in Corcovado Reaches Breaking Point
Pacheco Spends $5,000 On Harry Potter Books
Argentina, Brazil Endorse Costa Rica's OAS Candidate

Thursday, March 18:
Municipality: Street Vendors Have Three Months to Leave
Court to Decide Whether to Release Suspect in Journalist’s Killing
Catholic Church Promotes Controversial Film Premiere
Costa Rica, Qatar Establish Diplomatic Relations

Friday, March 19:
Central Bank Downplays Inflation Concerns
Mass Held in Memory Of Madrid Bombings
Police Seize 300 Kilograms Of Cocaine at Peñas Blancas

Return To Top Of Page


Week of March 22 - 26, 2004

Monday, March 22:
Central American Water Tribunal Announces Verdicts
President Pacheco Sends Prayers to Recovering Taiwanese President, Vice-President
Arias: Announcement Does Not Mark The Start of Presidential Campaign

Tuesday, March 23:
Trade Ministers Visit Washington To Lobby for Free-Trade Agreement
Drumbeats Rock Ceremony for World Peace
Arias Foundation for Peace Gets Boost from Japan

Wednesday, March 24:
Most Public Employees Will Get Easter Week Off
President Nominates New Government Attorney
Education Minister Named Head of Central American Organization
Dutch Man Arrested with Kilo of Cocaine in Stomach

Thursday, March 25:
Government Launches Plan To Help Banana Growers
Ticos Say Goodbye To TV Journalist
Police Complete Training to Combat Sexual Exploitation
Council Rejects Proposed Budget for Athens Olympics

Friday, March 26:
Fire Rages in Southern Zone
Central America Hopes to Achieve And Win With New Program

Return To Top Of Page


Week of March 29 - April 2, 2004

Monday, March 29:
Former President Gains More Endorsements for OAS Bid
Rain Helps Firefighters Control Brush Fire
Pablo Milanés Captivated Hundreds of Fans in San José
Two Drug Busts Reveal More Than 150 Kilos of Cocaine

Tuesday, March 30:
Trade Minister: Lobbying Mission a Great Success
Schools Receive Manual To Prevent Drug Use and Violence
Rain, Firefighters Bring Forest Fire Under Control
Quitters Can Win In New Contest

Wednesday, March 31:
High Court to Study Controversial New Customs Requirements
San José Building Evacuated Because of Bomb Threat
Regional Leader Claims Costa Rica Opposes Regional Integration
Panama Joins List of Rodríguez Supporters for OAS Bid

Thursday, April 1:
Survey: Costa Ricans Divided Over CAFTA
Countries Meet to Discuss Marine Biological Corridor
Food Safety Evaluation To Suggest Improvements
Pacheco Promotes Tourism On Visit to Italy

Friday, April 2:
Costa Rica May Receive Nearly $1 Million in Cooperation Funds
Ombudsman’s Office: Airport Fees Are Excessive
Small Business Loans Offered to Women in Need

Return To Top Of Page


Week of April 12 - April 16, 2004

Monday, April 12:
President Abel Pacheco Returns to Costa Rica
23 People Killed in Costa Rica During This Year’s Easter Week
Students Celebrate Battle of Rivas, Hero Juan Santamaría Today

Tuesday, April 13:
Exports of Organic Products Reach Nearly 5 Million Kilograms
Lots of Quakes and An Anniversary
Costa Rican Palmito Exporter To Conquer Chilean Market
Thousands of Nicaraguans Denied Entry During Easter Week Holiday

Wednesday, April 14:
Investment Board Chief: No Foreign Investment Without CAFTA
Law Penalizing Violence Against Women Moves Forward
Costa Rica to Support Resolution Against Cuba in Geneva

Thursday, April 15:
Confused Robbery Suspect Hops in Police Vehicle
Puerto Rican Commercial Mission Coming to Costa Rica
Teachers to Receive Training in Recorder

Friday, April 16:
U.S. Endorses Tico Ex-President’s Bid For Secretary General of OAS
Indigenous Group Hosts Three-day Event for Peace
Government Announces Another Proposal to Assist Small Businesses
Police Arrest Suspected Members of Car Theft Ring

Return To Top Of Page


Week of April 19 - April 23, 2004

Monday, April 19:
Nicaragua Places Conditions on Support for Tico OAS Candidate
Olympian Competes Today After Two-Year Suspension
Costa Rica Has More Women in Congress Than Most Latin American Countries

Tuesday, April 20:
Day of the Aborigine Celebrated with Recognition of Achievements, Needs
Airport Receives Rave Reviews; Exit Tax for Ticos Will Decrease
Tica Swimmer Places Third In 400-Meter French Open
“The Classic” Soccer Match Stays Under Control, Police Say

Wednesday, April 21:
Costa Rica Rejects Conditional Nicaraguan Support for OAS Candidate
Head of Insurance Institute Resigns Over Elevator Controversy
Poll Finishes 200-Meter French Open Seconds Behind Olympic Performance

Thursday, April 22:
Country’s Students March to Demand Education for All
President-Elect of El Salvador Supports Central American Consensus for OAS
Poll Takes Third in 200-Meter Open, 11 Worldwide Ranking

Friday, April 23:
Governor of Puerto Rico Visits, Aims to Foster Trade with Region
Costa Ricans Read to Learn, Not For Fun, on World Book Day
Vaccination Week Begins Tomorrow

Return To Top Of Page


Week of April 26 - April 30, 2004

Monday, April 26:
Donation from United States Helps Combat Drug Trafficking
40 Undocumented Foreigners Detained in Past 10 Days
Costa Rican Exports Continue to Grow

Tuesday, April 27:
Evicted Northern Zone Farmers Seek Church’s Help in Land Dispute
A Busy Day for Children’s Rights Issues
Former President Rests After Carjacking Incident
Libertarians Say Lunar Cycle Affects President’s Actions

Wednesday, April 28:
Pacheco Reaffirms Stance Against Sex Tourism
Ex-President of Airline Group TACA Killed
Suspected Members of Heroin Ring Busted

Thursday, April 29:
Foreign Minister: Costa Rica Does Its Share Against Terrorism
Suspect Detained with Cocaine in Stomach, Vagina
Universidad Nacional Has New Theater

Friday, April 30:
Tariffs on Non-Traditional Exports To Europe Go Into Effect
Two Quakes Strike Pacific Coast
Candidate for Comptroller General Disqualified for Stretching the Truth
Work Begins to Ban Scuba Fishing of Lobsters

Return To Top Of Page


Week of May 3 - May 7, 2004

Monday, May 3:
Alliances, Protests, Speeches Fill San José on May Day
Authorities Recover Ex-President’s Stolen Vehicle
Panama Concludes Peaceful Election Process

Tuesday, May 4:
CAFTA Legal Revision Expected to End This Week
Country Congratulates President-Elect of Panama
Costa Rican Ambassador To Taiwan Receives Threats
Suspect Held for Robbery Involving Hostages

Wednesday, May 5:
Beware of Locusts, Agriculture Ministry Warns
Water Experts: Central America Must Invest in Irrigation
April Inflation Registers at 0.91%

Thursday, May 6:
Seatbelt Law Goes Into Effect
Casa Alianza Urges Passage Of Law to Protect Children
Drug Control Police Seize 410 Kilos of Cocaine

Friday, May 7:
United Nations Criticizes Country’s State of Education
Monteverde Group Circulates Petition Against Pocosol Dam
Cartago to Host National Games
New Inspection Center Sees First Major Drug Bust
4.7-Degree Earthquake Jolts the Border With Panama

Return To Top Of Page


Week of May 10 - May 14, 2004

Monday, May 10:
Pacific Marine Science Station Transferred to Universidad Nacional
President Says He’ll Cut Off The Hands of Corrupt Officials

Tuesday, May 11:
Caribbean-Slope Floods Displace Hundreds, Kill One
Latest Technology in Agriculture Draws Regional Leaders to San José
Canada to Require Visas For Costa Rican Visitors
Police Capture 16th Airport Trafficking Suspect

Wednesday, May 12:
Electricity Institute to Research Hydrogen Power
President Pacheco Visits Flood-Damaged Caribbean Slope
Italian Fugitive Captured in San José

Thursday, May 13:
AmCham: Airport Dispute Could Mean ‘Red Card’ for Costa Rica
Death Threat Made Against Woman Who Accused Priest of Abuse
Upala Area Gets New Bathrooms

Friday, May 14:
Wheelchair-Friendly Buses Unveiled
Farmers Celebrate Age-Old Techniques
Russian Church Supports Country’s Proposed Cloning Ban

Return To Top Of Page


Week of May 17 - May 21, 2004

Monday, May 17:
Organization for Tropical Studies Celebrates New Home
Gibraltar Real Estate Investment Trust Purchases Historic Building
Ministries Unite to Create Safer Schools

Tuesday, May 18:
Citizen Action Party Begins Preparing 2006 Campaign Platform
Seasonal Rains Drench San José
Police from Latin America Train in Costa Rica
Ministry Makes Computers Available at Affordable Prices

Wednesday, May 19:
Deputies Agree on Legislative Agenda
Cocaine Discovered in Tail of Colombian Airliner
Tico Students Invited To U.S. Space Camp

Thursday, May 20:
First Woman Rector Takes Over At University of Costa Rica
Officers Help Deliver Baby In La Carpio Neighborhood
Tica Representative Travels to International Youth Parliament

Friday, May 21:
Suspected Pedophile Arrives in Costa Rica
Airline Association To Take Part in Airport Negotiations
Hemisphere Bands Together to Fight Sexual Exploitation of Children
Officials Declare Green Alert Because of Heavy Rains

Return To Top Of Page


Week of May 24 - May 28, 2004

Monday, May 24:
Investigation Ordered into Prostitution Packages for Tourists
Police Make Five Arrests In Journalist’s Murder Case
World Day against Tobacco Celebrated
Nica-Tico Soldier in U.S. Sentenced to Year in Jail

Tuesday, May 25:
More Flooding, Evacuations Usher in Rainy Season this Year
Farmers Prepare to Conquer Caribbean Market
Dutch Woman Arrested with Cocaine in Shampoo Bottles
President Kicks Off 20th Expotur

Wednesday, May 26:
Pacheco Has ‘Great Expectations’ For European Union-Latin America Summit
German Company Promotes Sex Ed
Father, Son Detained For Alleged Drug Sales

Thursday, May 27:
Judge Closes Offices Of Risqué Magazine
Emergency Declared in Guanacaste Because of Locusts
CNE Proposes Land-Use Guidelines in Orosi Area

Friday, May 28:
CAFTA “Dead on Arrival” Say Trade Pact’s Opponents
Universities Walk to Improve Quality of Life
EXPOTUR Participants Deem Event a Success
Caja Medical Personnel Aid Talamanca Indigenous
Taiwanese Fair Features Kung-fu, Bonsai Trees

Return To Top Of Page


Week of May 31 - June 4, 2004

Monday, May 31:
Group Fits Leatherback With Satellite Transmitters
Air Madrid Confirms Direct Flight to Costa Rica
Unions to March against Trade Agreement Today

Tuesday, June 1:
More than 10,000 Fill Streets of San José In Country’s Largest Anti-CAFTA March
Environment Ministry Suspends Employee Investigated for Suspected Corruption
Only Six Earthquakes Hit Country Last Month
Costa Rican Plastic Aims to Conquer Central American, Caribbean Markets

Wednesday, June2:
Violent Protest Brings Injuries, Controversy
Campaign Aims to Stop Physical Abuse of Children
Teacher Strike Avoided in Turrialba

Thursday, June 3:
Foreigners Threatened by Changes to Residency Laws
Former Labor Minister Announces Presidential Bid
Police Break Up Suspected Drug Ring
Suspects Arrested for Alleged Sexual Abuse

Friday, June 4:
Less Than Half of Country’s Exporters Registered for U.S. Bio-Terrorism Law
Association of Free Zones Supports Free-Trade Pact
Suspects Detained After Home Invasion

Return To Top Of Page


Week of June 7 - June 11, 2004

Monday, June 7:
Next OAS Head Pledges to Strengthen U.S.-Latin American Relations
Pension Funds Recover
Taiwanese Vice-President’s Visit to Region Concludes

Tuesday, June 8:
Pacheco Announces Plan To Help Farming Sector
Rodríguez Elected OAS Secretary General
Child, Grandmother Mauled by Dog

Wednesday, June 9:
Flamingo Marina Boaters Get Eviction Notice
Salary Adjustments Spark Debate
Drug Control Police Seize 600 Kilograms of Cocaine

Thursday, June 10:
Pedestrian Promenade to Showcase Heredia Culture
High Gas Prices Affect Consumption
Police Arrest 11 Suspects in Connection with La Carpio Riot

Friday, June 11:
Flamingo Marina Boaters Face Eviction Today
Intel Costa Rica Begins Manufacturing Chipsets
Two Quakes Strike Caribbean Coast
World Day Against Child Labor Commemorated With a Mural
La Carpio Suspects Given Preventive Detention

Return To Top Of Page


Week of June 14 - June 18, 2004

Monday, June 14:
Authorities Close Pacific Coast Marina
Ecuador Captures Costa Rican Fishermen In Pacific Waters Near Galapagos Islands
Costa Rican Chancellor Accused Of Misappropriation of Taiwanese Funds

Tuesday, June 15:
U.S. Report on Child-Trafficking Ranks Costa Rica Second Among 140 Countries
Tourism Chamber Opposes Creation of Regional Tourism Offices
Central American Scientists Discuss Gene-Altered Foods
U.S. Boat Rescues Fishermen Lost at Sea

Wednesday, June 16:
Private-Sector Wages Will Increase by 6.27%
Health Fair Offers Discounted Services in San José
Suspected Drug Dealers Arrested in Cartago
Correction!

Thursday, June 17:
Rodríguez Welcomed Back with Parties, Congressional Hearing
Ecuadorian Minister Interested In Costa Rican Eco-Tourism Model
Journalist Detained for Allegedly Assisting Coercion of Witnesses in Murder Case
Suspected Drug Traffickers Detained, 240 Kilograms of Cocaine Found in Pacific

Friday June 18:
Finance Minister: Not Planning on Resigning
Police Evict 190 Families From Central Pacific Beach
Renowned Mental Health Expert Visits Curridabat Rehab Clinic
World Refugee Day Celebrated Tomorrow

Return To Top Of Page


Week of June 21 - June 25, 2004

Monday, June 21:
National Soccer Team Advances Despite 1-1 Tie with Cuba
Gay Rights Group Denounces Ombudsman
Trade Talks with Dominican Republic Will Continue Next Weekend

Tuesday, June 22:
Soccer Federation Fires Head Coach Steve Sampson
Eviction of Street Vendors Postponed by Court Appeal
Medina Murder Trial Judge Receives Death Threats

Wednesday, June 23:
Women’s Affairs Minister Resigns
Conflict Resolution Center Celebrates Anniversary
Police Capture Man Wanted On Suspicion of Sexual Abuse

Thursday, June 24:
Security Minister Calls for Care of Juvenile Delinquent
Coca Cola Distributor Fined For Monopolistic Behavior
Chayanne to Perform in Costa Rica Next Month

Friday, June 25:
New Seismic Code Implemented
Murder Suspects Arrested
20 Kilos of Cocaine Found During Beach Clean-up

Return To Top Of Page


Week of June 28 - July 2, 2004

Monday, June 28:
Air Traffic Controllers Continue Strike, Airports Operating
Pinto Convenes Costa Rican Players for American Cup
Panama Lifts Import Restrictions Placed on Costa Rican Products

Tuesday, June 29:
Government Remains Hard-Edged Against Striking Air Traffic Controllers
President of Central American Parliament Berates Costa Rica for Reduction Proposal
Bishop Admits Sending Money to Fugitive Priest

Wednesday, June 30:
Air Traffic Controllers’ Strike Continues, Safety Questioned
Public Sector Workers Demand Salary Increase
Universidad Nacional Honors U.S. Earthquake Expert

Thursday, July 1:
World Heritage Site In Guanacaste Expanded
Suspected Al Qaeda Member May be in Central America
Bambuzal Campesinos Can Find their Way Home

Friday, July 2:
Sentences of Convicted Killers Of U.S. Citizen Extended
Costa Rican Ambassador Leaves Embassy, Joins OAS
Ombudsman Files Case to Help Liver Transplant Patients

Return To Top Of Page


Week of July 5 - July 9, 2004

Monday, July 5:
Bambuzal Campesinos Remain In Church, Announce Hunger Strike
Arias Asked to Testify in Solís Hearings
Nearly One Million Students On Mid-Term Vacation

Tuesday, July 6:
Decision to Pay Debt to Italy Unleashes Debate
Casa Alianza Announces Bomb Threat
Inflation for First Semester Registers at 6.26%

Wednesday, July 7:
Secretary General-Elect of OAS Meets With European Leaders
National Soccer Team Heads To Perú for American Cup

Thursday, July 8:
Government Help Rejected By Bambuzal Campesinos
New Medical Equipment Plant Opens in Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano Erupts
Police Seize 286 Liters of Suspected Illegal Liquor

Friday, July 9:
Costa Rican Boxers Win Every Fight So Far
Country to Work with Ecuador Regarding Banana Interests
Planning Ministers Meet in San José

Return To Top Of Page


Week of July 12 - July 16, 2004

Monday, July 12:
Business Leaders Deny Abandoning President on CAFTA, Fiscal Reform
Brazil Crushes Costa Rica 4-1, Eliminates Team from Copa America
ICT Begins Moving Into New Offices

Tuesday, July 13:
U.S. Air-Traffic Controllers Announce Support for Striking Costa Ricans
CAFTA Negotiations Continue This Week
Costa Rican Named To U.N. Education Post

Wednesday, July 14:
Fugitive Tico Priest Believed to Be in Nicaragua
Ministries, Environmentalists Discuss Genetically Modified Organisms
No Sign of Missing Limón Fishermen
Commission Studying Caribbean Flooding to Meet

Thursday, July 15:
Identity of Detained Suspect Dubious, Police in Nicaragua Still Investigating
Ombudsman Sues Legislative Assembly
Conference on GMOs Open to the Public
Banco Cuscatlán Promotes Saving Among Youngsters

Friday, July 16:
Tico Soccer Team Wins, Moves To Next Round
Police in Nicaragua Release Suspect, Say He’s Not Fugitive Tico Priest
Police Investigate Speedboat Discovered by Residents
Search Continues for Missing Fisherman

Return To Top Of Page


Week of July 19 - July 23, 2004

Monday, July 19:
Second Half of School Year Starts With More Promises of Infrastructure
Government Announces Ten-Year Sustainable Forest Plan
Tico Press Says Columbia Better, With Simple and Effective Soccer

Tuesday, July 20:
Turrialba Dairy Industry Diversifies Products
Monaco Aids Fight Against Child Cancer
Teachers Plan Work Stoppage For Higher Salaries
Immigration Authorities Deny Entry to More Than 25,000 During First Semester

Wednesday, July 21:
ICE Board Members Who Traveled to Prague Fired
Health Minister Supports Controversial Morning-After Pill
Official Calls for Approval Of New Immigration Law

Thursday, July 22:
Scientists Take Picture Of Costa Rica’s Innards
Plantains May Revive Southern Zone Economy
Moravia Residents Assist in Detaining Robbery Suspect

Friday, July 23:
135 Children at Shelter Tested for Syphilis
Schools Get Boost with Speech Therapy Equipment
Coldwell Banker to Begin Selling Franchises Here
PCD Agents Detain Alleged Drug Dealers in Cartago

Return To Top Of Page


Week of July 26 - July 30, 2004

Monday, July 26:
Poll Shows Discontent on the Rise
Lawyer Says Venezuelan Asylum Seeker Still in Country
International Aviation Unions Ask Airlines to Suspend Costa Rican Flights

Tuesday, July 27:
Central Bank Tightens Monetary Policy to Curb Inflation
MINAE Calls for End to Poaching, Illegal Capture of Animals
Earthquake Jiggled Southern Zone
Tourism Increases In First Semester

Wednesday, July 28:
Update: Hostage Crisis Ends In Tragedy
Police Officer Takes Hostages at Chilean Embassy
Unions Increase Demands In National Strike
Government Aids Fishermen Affected By Fishing Ban
PCD Shuts Down Hotel Allegedly Used for Drug Sales

Thursday, July 29:
Country Mourns Embassy Killings
CAFTA to be Signed Again Next Week
Fate of Venezuelan Union Leader’s Refugee Status to be Decided in Weeks
INBio Discovers New Wasp Species

Friday, July 30:
Business Sector Concerned By Slow Pace of Reforms
Thousands Strike On Labor Issues
Police Raid “Massage Parlors”Suspected of Exploiting Women
U.S. Embassy Closed on Monday

Return To Top Of Page


Week of August 02 - August 06, 2004

Monday, August 02:
Chileans Mourn Diplomats Killed in Embassy Crisis
Public Employees Threaten to Strike
German Captured with Nearly Three Kilograms of Cocaine

Tuesday, August 03:
Nearly 1.5 Million People Make Pilgrimage to Cartago Basilica
WTO to Liberalize Tropical Products, Proposes Substitution of Illicit Crops
Three Detained in Connection With Death of 17-Year-Old Boy

Wednesday, August 04:
Three Costa Rican Ambassadors Resign
Arias Still Favorite Candidate But Losing Support, Poll Says
Ministry of Education Offers Pre-registration this Week
Body of Missing Youth Found in Limón

Thursday, August 05:
Human Rights Court Decision May Change Country's Press Practices
Foreign Ministry Doesn't Know Whereabouts of Venezuelan Union Leader
Solidarity with Campesinos Shines on Road Home
July Inflation Registers at 1.30%

Friday, August 06:
Iberia Will Fly Here Daily Starting in October
Graduating Chefs Show Off
Government Takes Steps to Fire Striking Air Traffic Controllers

Venezuelan Leader Given Asylum No Longer in Costa Rica

Return To Top Of Page


Week of August 09 - August 13, 2004

Monday, August 09:
Bambuzal Campesinos Return to Sarapiquí
Special Commission To Analyze Embassy Security
Canada Donates Funds To Improve Labor Standards

Tuesday, August 10:
Region Has Low Expectations For Summer Olympic Games
Four Arrested on Drug Charges after Routine Checks in Southern Zone
New Optic Sensors Installed in Pay Phones

Wednesday, August 11:
Negotiations Under Way to End Strike by Air Traffic Controllers
President's Popularity Reaches All-Time Low, According to Poll
More Costa Rican Ambassadors Resign

Thursday, August 12:
Private Bank Customers Panic, Officials Say Rumors Unfounded
U.S. Bio-Terrorism Law Goes into Full Effect Today
Melon, Watermelon Exports Surge

Friday, August 13:
Environmentalists Propose Law Project Outlawing GMOs
Seismic Activity Stable
Suspected Drug Dealer Arrested in San Pedro

Return To Top Of Page


Week of August 16 - August 20, 2004

Monday, August 16:
Iraq Stomps Tico Soccer Team, Qualifies for Quarter Finals
Country's Support of Iraq Invasion Questioned Before Supreme Court
After Panic, Everything Back To Normal at BAC San José

Tuesday, August 17:
Former Presidency Minister Questions Constitutionality of
South American Countries Propose Free-Trade Pact with Central America
Swimmer Claudia Poll's Olympic Hopes Dashed
Colombians Suspected of Transporting Eight Kilograms of Marijuana, Police Say

Wednesday, August 18:
Government Will Launch Campaign To Promote Fuel Rationing
Small Farmers Share Organic Advice
Three Suspects Detained After Botched Bank Robbery

Thursday, August 19:
Pacheco Cautious About New Free-Trade Agreement Proposals
Six Costa Rican Catholic Priests on Trial In the Vatican for Abuse Against Minors
Six Missing Fishermen Found Alive

Friday, August 20:
Court Ruling Means Progress for Blind People
Honduras Crushes Costa Rica's National Team
Costa Rica Denies Quid Pro Quo In Support for Korean Candidate
Costa Rican Agriculture Looks to Japanese Market

Return To Top Of Page


Week of August 23 - August 27, 2004

Monday, August 23:
Strike May Threaten Today's Commute
Appeals Court Gives Go-Ahead To San José Vendor Eviction
Country's Banana Sales Increase

Tuesday, August 24:
Protest against Riteve Halts Traffic
Infant Mortality Rate Decreases To Lowest Level in 20 Years
Police Seize 800 Kilograms of Marijuana in Southern Zone
Japan Donates Ambulance to Alajuela

Wednesday, August 25:
Nationwide Strike Paralyzes Transport
Chamber of Tourism Blasts Chaos Caused by Roadblocks

Thursday, August 26:
President: U.S. Filmmaker's Assertions Not Accurate
Most Blockades Removed, General Strike Announced
Venezuelan Ambassador Reports Kidnapping Threats

Friday, August 27:
Protests against Riteve Continue with Strike
High Court Rejects Three Actions against Tax Plan
Tico Lights Himself on Fire after Learning of Son's Death in Iraq

Return To Top Of Page


Week of August 30 - September 03, 2004

Monday, August 30:

U.S. Candidate's Sister Vies for Votes from Expats in Costa Rica
Agents Topple “Most Powerful” Drug Ring in Pacific Port Town


Tuesday, August 31:
Officials: U.S. Trade Agreement Won't Affect Oil Exploration Ban
Government Officials, Union Leaders Return to Negotiating Table
Vice-Foreign Minister to Tour European Countries


Wednesday, September 01:
Finance Minister Resigns
New Tico Ambassador To United States Named
Nanotechnology Lab Inaugurated in San José


Thursday, September 02:
Government Unveils 2005 Budget
Monument to Commemorate Victims of 9/11 Tragedy
Police Break Up Alleged Caribbean Distribution Ring


Friday, September 03:
Caja Directors Formally Accused Of Misusing Public Funds
Humane Society Opens Regional Offices Here
August Inflation Registers at 0.97%

Return To Top Of Page



Week of September 06 - September 10, 2004

Monday, September 06:

Former President Linked To Social-Security Scandal
Central Bank President Says He is Not Going to Resign
U.S. Embassy Closed Today

Tuesday, September 07:
Judge Prohibits Ex-President From Leaving Country
Quake Strikes Nicoya Peninsula
Flights To, From Miami Resume


Wednesday, September 08:
Presidency Minister, Finance Vice-Minister Resign
Government to Meet With Riteve Tomorrow
Earthquake Hits Central Pacific Coast


Thursday, September 09:
Former Caja Chief Arrested, Placed in Preventive Detention
Trade, Transport Ministers Resign
Cats to Take To the Runway


Friday, September 10:
President Abel Pacheco Says He's Not Leaving
High Court Rules President's War Support Unconstitutional
Comptroller General Declares Riteve Contract Unconstitutional

Flood Alert Issued for Pacific Central, Southern Zones

Return To Top Of Page



Week of September 13 - September 17, 2004

Monday, September 13:

Sept. 11 Tragedy Remembered With Ceremony, Artistic Memorial
President Maintains Country Not in Crisis
More Catholics Leaving Church


Tuesday, September 14:
President Pacheco Names Three New Ministers
Floods Recede in Southern Pacific Zone
Jane Goodall Visits Costa Rica


Wednesday, September 15:
Country Celebrates Independence Day
Immigration Bill Advances in Congress
Company Denounces Phone-Card Fraud


Thursday, September 16:
Central America Celebrates Independence With Hard Look at Corruption, Poverty
Former President Rodríguez Begins Job as OAS Secretary General
Top Student Speakers Compete


Friday, September 17:
International Peacemaker Receives Honorary Doctorate
Costa Rican Pineapple Juice Grows in Popularity Worldwide
President Pacheco Heads to United States

Return To Top Of Page



Week of September 20 - September 24, 2004

Monday, September 20:

Director of Casa Alianza Fired After Paying for Sex
President Fills Cabinet Positions
President Tells International Press Costa Rica is Doing Fine


Tuesday, September 21:
Minister Announces Riteve Changes, Audit
Suspect in Investment Scam Charged with Fraud
Journalists' Association Celebrates 35 th Anniversary
President Pacheco Honored By Business Chamber in Florida


Wednesday, September 22:
U.S. President Bush Supports Costa Rica-sponsored Cloning Ban
President Pacheco Speaks Before the United Nations
Drug Police Bust Italian Cocaine Trafficking Ring


Thursday, September 23:
World Investment Report Unveiled
Cases of Dengue Decreasing
U.S. Announces Requirement Of Electronic Passport or Visa


Friday, September 24:
Monsanto Scales Back Costa Rica Operations
Former President Rodríguez Celebrated as OAS
Secretary General

Return To Top Of Page


Week of September 27 - October 01, 2004

Monday, September 27:
Suspect Sentenced for Killing Retired U.S. Man
International Tourism Day
Celebrated Today
Spiritual Leader Dalai Lama Addresses Costa Rica

Tuesday, September 28:
Dalai Lama Commends Costa Rica, Talks about Cultivating Compassion
ICE Board Members Who Went to Prague Fired
Monsanto Says it Left To Increase Efficiency

Wednesday, September 29:
Government Plans to Increase Budget to Combat Corruption
Government to Kick-off Campaign to Save Fuel
President Appoints New Ambassador to OAS

Thursday, September 30:
Former Trade Minister Recaps His Time in Office
Intel Donates 4,000 Processors
Police Destroy 408,011 Marijuana Plants

Friday, October 01:
Worldwide Drug Recall Announced
Agricultural Exports Continue to Grow
SETENA Rejects Study for Pocosol Dam

Return To Top Of Page


Week of October 04 - October 08, 2004

Monday, October 04:
Rural Women Find Success in Sweet Sustainable Business
President Tells Rodríguez to Speak up or Resign from OAS
TACA Airline Group Announces Fare Reduction

Tuesday, October 05:
President Asks Rodríguez To Resign from OAS
Unions Threaten To Strike Again
Trial of Suspected Pedophile Underway

Wednesday, October 06:
Prosecutor's Office Will Determine Action against Former President
Pacheco to Sign Anti-Corruption Law
Security MinistryFinds Bag of Passports

Thursday, October 07:
Congressmen Seek Help From France in Alcatel Case
Tourism Groups Express Concern About Airport Traffic
Costa Rica, Nicaragua toClean Up San Juan River
74 Arrested on Suspicion of Sex Crimes in Past Five Years

Friday, October 08:
Chamber Helps Daycare Center For Children of Street Vendors
National Civic Movement Postpones Strike
Alcatel Organizes Internal Team to Analyze Costa Rican Corruption Cases
ICE Predicts Shortage Of Cell Phone Lines

Return To Top Of Page


Week of October 11 - October 15, 2004

Monday, October 11:
Judge Issues International Capture Order for Ex-President
Finance Minister Rejects Budget Changes
Ecotourism Forum Begins Later This Week

Tuesday, October 12:
Pacheco: Foreign Investment Combats Poverty
Peek into Culture Offered Through Little Windows
Groups to March Against Corruption

140 Nicaraguans Immigrants Detained; Most Deported

Wednesday, October 13:
Pacheco Booed, Three Arrested In March Against Corruption
Ombudsman Calls on Europe To Investigate Companies
Crime at Limón Carnaval Limited to Possession

Thursday, October 14:
State Asked to Require Better Tests for Generic Drugs
Legislative Assembly Considers Extending Punishment for Offering Bribes
Legislators Suggest Breaking Ties With Taiwan for Questionable Donations

Friday, October 15:
Ex-President Declined to Answer Legislative Commission's Questions
Political Party Founder Takes His Own Life
Ex-President Rodríguez Expected To Return to Costa Rica Today

ICE Will Deny New Contracts to Alcatel, Ericsson and Inabensa

Return To Top Of Page


Week of October 18 - October 22, 2004

Monday, October 18:
Ex-President in House Arrest After Return to Costa Rica
Honduran Coach: “Playing Costa Rica Is Harder than the Hexagonal”
Taiwan Denies Hidden Payments To Costa Rica, Nicaragua

Tuesday, October 19:
UNICEF Proposes New Policies to Help Indigenous
Spanish Firm Refutes Corruption Accusations
Rice Producers Could Lose $10 Million Because of Plague

Wednesday, October 20: