Misfire

Conservative presidential candidate Jorge "Tuto" Quiroga (right) picked up more than just good English and a fondness for American-led neoliberal economic policy during his many years in the U.S. It seems that he learned the potential political benefit of a jaunty jogging photo-op. This one is taken from the pages of El Deber, Santa Cruz's leading newspaper.
Bill Clinton did it, and though he looked like a sweaty hog, somehow pulled it off.
George Bush I and II both did it and it and it projected an image of health and vigor.
No such luck for Tuto. His cocked left hip and short stride make it look like he's speedwalking and there's nothing presidential about that. And the lavender striped soccer jersey, hanging hands and headphones give him the appearance of a Chelsea aerobics instructor. Hardly the imagine one wants to give off in this macho country.

Floating

Sonya and I and two old friends -- Scott and John -- spent five days floating on a riverboat down the Rio Mamore in the Bolivian Amazon. Highlights were galloping on horseback through rainforest, swimming with piranas and catching and eating them, drinking and smoking Swiss cigarillos and bullshitting on the deck of the riverboat and falling asleep watching stars in a moldy hammock. Here are a few images. Click to enlarge.