Countdown to 4th of July Picnic Is On

THIS July 2, an expected crowd of5,000 United Statesians in Costa Rica willcelebrate the 229th anniversary of U.S.independence from the British by gorgingthemselves on free hotdogs, TCBY frozenyogurt, cotton candy, popcorn, bagels andbeer. All passport-carrying U.S. citizensand their immediate families are invited.The party will take place at the CerveceríaCosta Rica Picnic Park in Alajuela, northwestof San José, from 8 a.m. to noon.Children will be provided for withgames for all ages, such as the Uncle Sambeanbag toss, the fishpond of surprises,the Stars and Stripes three-legged raceand the George Washington wheelbarrow.There will be races, carousel rides,clowns, water balloons and face-paintingas well.For adults, jazz and blues by Mr.Jones and country tunes by Blue Desertwill entertain guests in the Beer Garden,and the Universidad Latina cheerleaderswill raise audiences’ energy in the gameroom.“It’s a very active event; we have apacked agenda completely full of activities.From 8 a.m. to noon, there willalways be something to do,” said RocíoMadrigal, American Colony Committeepicnic administrator.The event is funded entirely throughdonations from people or businesses inthe country (TT, June 10). For informationor to donate, call Vivian Espinoza at289-6845 or the American Colony Committeeat 233-3296.