critter has left 313 comments

critter comments on

Real Colombians aren't afraid of anything...except the rain.

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

Lesson 1: We all are born with verbal language abilities (as opposed to the ape ancestors of some of you evolutionists out there- LOL), but no language is easily mastered. It takes hard work, dedication, and above all, patience. In addition, all advantages (visual aids, supplemental materials, language lab equipment, and competent teachers) need to be brought to the classroom in order to increase the probability of second language fluency. So, tell me please. Who here thinks it not an advantage for a teacher to know where the student is coming from? That is, isn't it an enormous advantage for the teacher (remember, a competent teacher will use every advantage to his/her advantage) to have a solid understanding of (most likely) the only language (bearings) the student speaks and refer to it often? And if you don't have/use an advantage that exists, then isn't it considered a handicap for the student's learning potential? That being said, I don't know which is worse...someone like junior "excellent" here who has no choice but to teach with this handicap, or manderson's collegue who consciously (yes, I'm sure the school wants it that way) makes the effort to avoid the only point of reference the students have in order to internalize this new language? Diminished language retention is an enormous problem most foreign language educators are ignoring/not addressing. When students say they forgot it or didn't learn anything...why don't we stop making up excuses for them and start believing what they are telling us? Maybe they really didn't learn anything! "How can this be?" you say. Well, I have question for you...did you teach the person HOW to learn languages (how to study, organize, memorize, internalize, and link new info. to that which you already know) before you actually started teaching them the language? If not, then you did them a disservice and wasted everyone's time (except of course, you still got paid).

critter comments on

LOL, good point Morphus. Selling out his "patria" for the opportunity to earn dollars, however, has riddled him with so much guilt that he feels it's his burden to defend Colombia, even when there's nothing to defend (either nothing negative was said against Colombia or whatever was said is the blatant truth)...which reminds me of other Colombian contradictions: -experts in every field who don't know squat. -warm, cultured people who never greet or respond to your greeting on the street, but will barge in on you at any given moment, invading your space and privacy, just to sell you some junk you would never dream of wasting your money on. -courteous drivers who would run you over at the drop of a hat. -experienced drivers who need help from the parking lot vultures (you know, the job creators with the red hankies) to drive in reverse. -efficient secretaries who hen-peck (only type with 1-4 fingers). Does anyone ever take a typing class in this country or is it like the situation with the driver's license (if you can reach the pedals, you're qualified to drive)? -the sense of superiority over other latinos while being oppressed, manipulated, and controlled by their own country's worst (left and right-wing narco-terrorists).

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

oh and ellbee2, no you don't "know" my wife. You might know of her (she is well-known and respected by many in the legal field), but that's the extent of it.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

Desi is absolutely correct. Street language is street language, no matter who uses it. Interesting how some of you lovers of mediocrity demand others to respect their right to speaking freely with their own style and yet have the audacity to ridicule those (seemingly with a great deal of envy) who are able and willing to distinguish between proper business language and improper street language. For those of you who are fed up with my comments, I feel sorry for you. You try to manipulate the truth by making naive, uninformed, unsubstatiated and/or completely incorrect statements about the people, culture, language, politics, and laws of Colombia (don't worry I won't mention religion anymore...God knows why you are too afraid to talk about Him on this website...and so do I), and people like me, who shake their heads in amazement as to how someone could make such ridiculous declarations (like the ones made on this post), are just providing you with the facts. Why, you ask? To impress? To feel superior? No, I'm not shallow and do not require a pat on the back or hug for reassurance. How about trying the truth on for size for once??? I do it to prove to you that your line of thinking is not quite right, and that you should reconsider what you say so that you don't embarrass yourself (most probably without even being aware of it) any further with other people. There are a lot of people in this world who will nod in agreement with you, all the while thinking "what a friggin' idiot"; I'm not one of them, ok?

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

I was teaching English and Spanish to illiterate Mexican migrant workers when your momma was still changing your poopy diapers, so shut up and take notes jughead.

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

"Por favor (critter) no escriba más en este foro" How long have you been a member of this forum twinkle toes? Since November of 2008? Planning a hostile take-over, are we? "creo que ya me ha humillado e insultado lo suficiente." You don't need any help from anyone in order to thoroughly embarrass yourself. You're just another flat-headed street-rat in Colombia trying to "fleece the gringo". You have nothing to offer anyone here for free, much less for 15k per hour. And stop checking out the dudes out on this website, sugar pants. There are special sites for sexual deviants like yourself. And I got your "fat ignorant" comment right here, numb-nuts

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

Listen chump-change, you have a funny way of showing you "just wanted peace". You wrote me a pm telling me I'm fat and ugly, like you were checking me out or something. Take your classroom hustle somewhere else.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

"Where does the need deflate egos critter come from Critter?" Is this what you meant by expressing "your self" from the heart and make your thoughts and feelings known (even if not clear)? "I see no tone of superiority being expressed by anyone but you." Oh, I guess saying "we Colombians speak the best" or Colombian Spanish is the best..." doesn't reek the foul stench of (a false sense of) pride and superiority? Your right, that would be very hypocritical of me to act superior to anyone here by proving to all that there is no cause for anyone to act like they "speak the best" "My Colombian friends get a kick out of my terrible Spanish"- so this is why you are frustrated and trying to take it out on me...be patient with yourself...eventually you'll be able speak the bestest Spanish in the whole wide world from Colombia. "Your not impressing anyone" No? Darn it! Plan B (political correctness and the I agree with everyone 100% strategy). "I feel very sorry for your poor wife." LOL, and my not so poor wife forgives you.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

"An educated caleño does not use "vos" except when trying to sound ghetto, talking down to a person from low social standing or as juvenile slang. It's true that the use of vos has become very popular, especially among young people, but it's still considered "street" or "hood" talk." Hey, where's papi de Alejo to read this ???? Se alejo????

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

"Critter you are one of those people that I despise over almost any other type of person in the world." In case you didn't know, hatred is the same as murder. Please don't kill me. "A self righteous "Christian" who judges others and then will deny it in the name of God." In case you weren't aware, being self-righteous means to be a sinner of this world who uses the devil's lies to justify her actions. Also, as followers of Christ, we are charged with shedding light on the truth...even if the truth hurts, ok? Nobody here is passing judgement except for you, oh odious ellbee2. Jesus will judge us all for all our deeds, thoughts, words, and intentions, which are derived from our faith in HIM. Desi, thanks for proving my point: http://www.spanish-language-school.info/spanish/dialects.asp "The Spanish language comes from the Castile region of Spain, which is why in some countries you hear it referred to as "castellano"- in other words, the only reason why latinos say "castellano" (instead of espanol) is because it refers/pays homage to its PLACE of origin. So, is a place also a language? Probably not, unless you speak "Mexican". "A dialect is defined in linguistic terms as a language variety which is spoken in a specific territory"- Castilian Spanish is spoken in Spain and Colombian Spanish is spoken the "mostest purest" in Colombia " "The differences between dialects are usually limited to intonation, pronunciation and isolated words and expressions. One of the main differences between the dialects of Spain and those of Latin America is the use of pronouns." AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST (HOPEFULLY THIS WILL DEFLATE SOME EGOS HERE): "What we need to remember is that everyone speaks a dialect, and therefore dialects are NOT incorrect or less valid versions of a language. If you study Spanish in Buenos Aires and interact with locals, you will learn the particularities of that area" No one dialect is any superior to another (but there is such a thing as proper Spanish). I guess that means some of you will have to look for another way to "prop-up" your superiority complex.

critter comments on Two genuine job opportunities in Barranquilla

I'm sure you'd need to be state-certified (i.e. have a teaching license, and not a tefl cert.), ghostdog.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

You could say that Colombians speak the best Colombian Spanish compared to other Spanish-speaking countries and be correct and proud at the same time, CIERTO?.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

"we, Colombians, do speak the best castillian in all of the Spanish Speaking Countries." Too bad Spain is only country that speaks Castillian (del castillo) Spanish. I'll bet you're still very proud anyway...it's a pity pride is NOT a virtue, but an aborration in the eyes of the Lord.

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

Thank you for proving my point, Ken! I gave profe08 good advice (be modest, professional, and aware of language trends), yet everything was lost in translation. Now he's completely offended and on the defensive and ready to attack...oh well, I guess I won't hold my breath waiting for a "thank you" or "good lookin-out"

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

"This is why it´s very helpful to understand the students native language but doesn´t mean you have to use it while teaching." I'm not sure why foreign language teachers choose to alienate native languages during language training lessons. For more exposure to something foreign??? How about if we analyze (not just "use") something very familiar (i.e. native language), which strengthens the students' abilities and confidence in commanding their own language, then use it as a point of reference to compare it to something not so familiar (a foreign language), in order to obtain meaningful acquisition and long-term retention goals??? Pretty crazy to think of anyone ending up competent in a second language without first having a strong grasp of his/her own native tongue. Studying both languages (structural and cultural similarities/differences) simultaneously is essential in order to achieve and RETAIN fluency. If there is nothing familiar with which to anchor this new information, it will, inevitably, be lost into the abyss.

critter comments on what the hell.......................

"oh, so that's it. down here in florida....this prolonged winter is making life miserable...all that in the land of palm trees. i can't imagine life like the folks up north are suffering. my son in washington,slipped and fell on the ice and suffered a mild concussion. winter sucks." I agree100%. I've spent 39 winter seasons in Michigan (3 of which were in a snow-belt in the the Upper Peninsula near Lake Superior). Not fun at all. Jajajaja...try telling that to a latina who has never seen snow before, however. "Ay que romantico" Por Diooooos! To make matters worse, the latinas who have managed to make it past the immigration gate-keepers to experience winter, always come back saying the same thing to those envious souls, "Ay mija, hay que experimentarlo...todo es tan hermoso...la nieve, el frio..todo todo...me encanta la navidad en el exterior"...just to rub it in...

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

If you took your (3) years of experience and divided it into the number of years of experience I have exclusively teaching foreign languages (22), I'd still have more than twice as much experience (7.333 years) as you. So does that justify me boasting to the whole world how WELL I EXCEL in anything? No, probably not.

critter comments on Chavez is not worse than Uribe.

"Like him or not, Chavez was legitimately elected by the people of Venezuela under free and fair elections, much like Uribe" I'll show you my evidence, if you show me yours first.

critter comments on Chavez is not worse than Uribe.

"In addition to all of the above, it might be that Chavez is not liked because his country has lots of petroleum and is not bending over as easy" Are you saying that people are envious of Chavez because of the vast oil reserves in Venezuela and dislike him as a result? And as far as "not bending over as easy" goes, he's taking it (without lubrication) "where the sun don't shine" on oil prices, just like the rest of the lackey OPEC cartel. That's why he had to pull 12 billion out of the piggy bank

critter comments on Chavez is not worse than Uribe.

What's wrong with Chavez? Besides sponsoring terrorists and aiding and abetting narcos from all over the world, making alliances with dictators (with very bad intentions), and igniting an arms race in latin america (not excluding nuclear capabilities),he has completely eliminated freedom of speech/freedom of the press in Venezuela. Anyone who speaks against him in word or gesture will pay dearly (they are blacklisted, blackballed, blackmailed, imprisoned, and/or murdered). Meanwhile corruption, violent crimes, and inflation are at all-time highs. Granted, Uribe is no boy scout (his ties to paracos and abuse of power have not gone unnoticed), but his ambitions (to become filthy rich) pale in comparison to the cocaine-addicted, power hungry chavez (he really thinks he could, some day, rule the world).

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

Ok, so don't take my advice! You should, however, look for a better translation program.

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

"So it´s totally possible to teach a language and be good at teaching it without using the students native language. Although, it really helps to have a good understanding of the students native language so when they are talking to each other you know if they understand or not. But I think that applies just to beginners. Advanced students should not need things explained in their native language." I agree that staying in the target language as much as possible is ideal, but not necessarily practical. If students miss out on key explanations that bring clarity to certain parts of speech and/or sentence structures, it won't take long for them to become frustrated and disengaged once they are beyond the songs, games, flashcards, and culture (food sampling/dress-up) days. Acquiring the skills to "break the code" in any given language requires ample sacrifice and dedication and should not be taken lightly. Furthermore, an in-depth, compare/contrast analysis between one's own native tongue and the target language is essential in order to achieve and maintain fluency for some time to come. Nothing is more painful for me than to hear "I studied such-and-such language in high school/college but I didn't learn anything or I forgot it all"

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

Para que sepa, Profe08, no me burlo de nadie mucho menos de alguien en el mismo campo que yo. Pero cuando veo que alguien esta hablando paja, es mas que seguro que se lo dire, sin importar que cualquier fulano piensa que yo sea un criticon, ok ? De todos modos, le cuento que la arrogancia que ud. ha demostrado en este foro es muy cansona. Primero, Ud. se metio en una pagina (donde la mayoria habla ingles) y tomo la decision de escribir un anuncio en ingles (un idioma en que le cuesta defenderse) tratando de impresionar y atraer a los usuarios (prestando sus servicios como profesor del castellano)...que Ud. lleva 3 anos dictando clases de espanol con mucho exito a extranjeros...que Ud. es un excelente profesor...que solo se habla espanol en las clases...como un tipico creido joven con poca experiencia. El punto de aprender cualquier idioma es dominarlo, no solo para sentirse bien por ser capaz de decir unas frases basicas en un lenguaje extranjero. Y si Ud. no piense a explicar bien la ortografia, los tiempos (...cuando se usa el antepasado, pluperfecto, condicional, preterito, imperfecto, el sujuntivo, etc...), reglas de pronunciacion, estres natural/eforzado en las silabas, como podriamos llegar a dominar el idioma??? Aqui tiene buenos consejos: 1) Solo los creidos se declaran "excelentes" (acaso ud. ya sabe todo???), especialmente con poca experiencia. Solo los estudiantes/clientes tienen el derecho de decir algo asi. 2) La proxima vez que quiere escribir un anuncio asi (prestando servicios como un excelente profesor de idiomas), hagalo bien aunque le toque pedir ayuda a alguien que realmente se defienda bien en el idioma para que Ud. no quede mal. Que tal...un excelente profesor de idiomas escribiendo mal en cualquier otro idioma. 3)No se engane, senor! El ingles es el idioma que manda en este mundo...aprendalo bien Parece que Ud. esta guardando rencores o algo...que es eso???

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

"Yes! is possible, but as you teach a foreigner who does not speak English?" Ok, you do have a good point there. In that case, TPR (Total physical response) and flash cards are very helpful; still, most students will struggle beyond the basics of any given language without thorough explanations, using the students' native tongue as a reference point. "perhaps you are those who think the world should speak English?" Well, since English is the International Business Language of the world (that's why most of the world requires their students to study English from middle school all the way through high school), it might be a good idea. There are actually four world languages (that have a minimum of 250 million speakers of that language and have a tremendous economic/cultural influence on others throughout the planet) that everyone should learn, and learn WELL: English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. (I speak, read, and write 3 out 4 fluently) "I have had students from many parts of the world, and I assure you that not everyone speaks English, or you think the proud Italian or French speak English?" I'm not sure what that statement is supposed to mean (if you're proud, then you rebel against learning English???), so I'll just wish you the best in finding motivated students.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

"I don't think that you can compare the Real Academia Española's dictionary to anything that exists in English. The Spanish language as well as the French language have "guardians" of their language" obviously, they weren't all that vigilant... they let someone steal the period off vos. in order to incorporate street language (VOS) into its formal structure.

critter comments on

If you're looking for the answer, all you have to do is look up: "Smoking is strongly related to Amorite pride. The word for "smoke" that appears in the New Testament is the Greek word typho, which is related to the word typhoo that literally means "to raise a smoke" but is used by the Holy Spirit in the New Testament to refer to "pride". In other words, the Lord sees a strong element of pride in the act of smoking. Therefore, someone who is struggling with smoking must go to the Lord in prayer and ask Him to reveal that "element of pride" to him or her, and, as He reveals it, he or she will grow to abhor the act of smoking because smoking will "reek of pride". When we are struggling with a certain sin area in our lives, it is important to go to God in prayer and say something like the following: "Lord, I have a mental awareness that this is wrong, but I don't have a strong feeling against it. Please show me WHY you hate this sin so much, and help me to develop the same hatred against that sin that You have." When we don't truly abhor a sin, we must prayerfully search in Scripture until we develop an understanding of how God sees that sin. Once we begin to see the sin as He does, we will hate it as much as He hates it. When this happens, we will abhor the sin's very presence, and we will actively work to see it destroyed. Every time we see that sin in our lives, we will abhor it, and we will say something simple like "I curse this sin and I curse the roots of this sin in my heart". Through the constant, deliberate, and repetitive declaration of this curse, the roots of the sin in our heart are destroyed and our abhorrence of the sin is strengthened

critter comments on Clases de Español en Cali ( Spanish classes in Cali) Colombia

"Yes! for that me too I have it in english, someone students they like in spanish. My classes are only in spanish. Thank you for to be interested." His/her classes are only in Spanish, so that the students will better understand what he/she is saying. Obviously, there would be a communication gap in English. There is little doubt that without having a solid background in both languages, this instructor is resigned to only the communicative approach (having students use only their rote memory by repeating key phrases numerous times like a parrot until they can say it with some sort of fluency without having to resort to reading it off a sheet of paper...of course, they neither learn the grammar points/pronunciation rules (which will actually help them better understand and therefere, better retain what they learned) nor subtle nuances about the language.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

NOOOOO! PLEASE DON'T HAMMER ME with the ole "if it's in a reputable dictionary, then I have proven my point" strategy. I AINT BUYING IT WEBSTER'S DICTIONARY: aint Main Entry: ain't Pronunciation: ˈānt Etymology: contraction of are not Date: 1749 1 : am not : are not : is not 2 : have not : has not 3 : do not : does not : did not —used in some varieties of Black English usage Although widely disapproved as nonstandard and more common in the habitual speech of the less educated, ain't in senses 1 and 2 is flourishing in American English. It is used in both speech and writing to catch attention and to gain emphasis . It is used especially in journalistic prose as part of a consistently informal style . This informal ain't is commonly distinguished from habitual ain't by its frequent occurrence in fixed constructions and phrases . In fiction ain't is used for purposes of characterization; in familiar correspondence it tends to be the mark of a warm personal friendship. It is also used for metrical reasons in popular songs . Our evidence shows British use to be much the same as American.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

Oh and as far as "ties" go, I guess you weren't aware that Cubans and Colombian narcos have been in business together in Miami for decades...so you think that Castro hasn't benefited from those transactions at all? Besides, anything that Castro has said, or is saying, is (and always will be) politically motivated. Connect the dots.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

"Important personalities with great command of the Spanish language, such as Fidel Castro, have expressed their admiration for the quality of the Spanish spoken in Bogotá. So Critter, why would Castro and others say this "crap" about Colombian/Bogota Spanish? Last time I checked he has no ties to Colombia." Ok ellbee2, I give up...you have me backed into a corner over a comment made by a ruthless dictator regarding a minority group of educated professionals who realize the importance of speaking proper Spanish in a business environment. Tough for anyone (not excluding the almighty Fidel, mentor and surrogate daddy to Hugo) to make such a sweeping statement about rolos, unless contact has been made to each and every one in the capital to substantiate such a declaration. Do you really think that Castro ever spoke with the "average Jose" of Colombia?

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

papi de Alejo, no I was, indeed, referring to vosotros since vos (which is really the abbreviated form of vosotros-vos.) doesn't really exist...in proper Spanish anyway. The singular form of vosotros (familiar and plural) is, and always will be tu (con acento) which is singular and familiar. hey gs how's it going? Yes, that is my wife and soulmate. I couldn't be happier.

critter comments on Colombian Spanish

If, when you say "the purest form", you mean "exactly the same", then the answer is obviously NO! Castillian Spanish (basically speaking Spanish with a lisp) is not heard anywhere in Colombia (Hablan con el "ceseo" por aca y el "thetheo" alla en Espana). Yes, the "vosotros" (you plural familiar) is used quite often in Colombia like in Spain, but not correctly (you're not supposed to address an individual with the plural form of subject and verb). Furthermore, if "the purest form" is considered the "most correct/proper" form of Spanish then nada que ver otra vez. Proper Spanish spoken in Colombia, like in most Latin American countries where education is NOT a priority, is as common as an honest politician. Since all languages are ever-evolving, there is no such thing as "a purest form" of any language, at any given time. Pretty sad that people have to stretch the truth about things with which they are affiliated in order to feel superior to others not on the same band-wagon. I doubt you would make this crap up about Colombian Spanish, if you had no ties to the country, right?

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

and in concrete terms: Latin American culture has a hard time respecting "invisible barriers" that stand in the way of their personal benefit. Concepts such as "abiding by the law" are irrelevant unless they see a "policeman" standing there who is waiting to punish them if they break the "invisible" law. This is the reason why students in Latin America (at all levels of the social scale) are quick to cheat whenever they have the opportunity. This is also the reason why software piracy is so common and accepted throughout Latin America. Their excuse is, "Hey, Bill Gates has enough dough as it is, so why should I be giving him my money when I can copy his software for free!" (fellow believer, I am not making up these quotes; I have heard words such as these with my own two ears from countless Latin Americans). In most Latin American nations, the idea of respecting a simple thing such as a "zebra crossing" (a "striped pedestrian crossing") remains an oft-ignored concept. Why? Because respecting the "invisible barrier" delineated by the zebra crossing seems worthless and of no personal benefit to them. Why have your car or motorcycle stand behind the zebra line when you can simply take up that open space ahead of you? The space is there for the taking, isn't it? So, why not take it? "If a pedestrian comes along, he can walk around me by going behind me!! What is the purpose of respecting that stupid white line?" This is how Latin Americans (in general) are prone to thinking

critter comments on Hello World! (need help buying a house in Cartago)

"Why not just skip Cartago and get something in Pereira?" His girlfriend probably has something to do with it...my wife says the women in Pereira are loose...that when they sit down, they're getting ready to lay down. LOL

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

"it's twenty years later and i still haven't gotten an answer to that." Well, I can tell you that my wife has spilled the beans on the "humiliation bomb" tactic (blow up in order to get your way) that latins frequently like to pull. She's tried a few times with me and I called her on it every time, never giving in or giving up (I calmly told her that what she is doing is a form of manipulation and I wouldn't tolerate it...when she learned to control herself and act more civilized I would be more inclined to listen/take heed/follow her admonitions). It took a little while for her to realize that things will never go her way by screaming or acting out, but now she knows it's a waste of time and energy...with ME. Although she has yet to apologize (you know, admitting when you're wrong), she confessed to me that since this is such a prideful culture, the last thing anyone wants (and will go to great lengths to avoid) is public humiliation...so going-off on people is how you get things done. For the most part, I would have to agree...I've seen her get results from all walks of life down here, by exploding over incompetent, lazy, or otherwise lack-luster efforts.

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

sad but, oh so true

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

"just about everything else is noise, and heranguing over the lives of others, when the most best/most effective comment of all, is one's actions." We'd all be s.o.l. if the rest of the genealogy, history, prophesies were left out, as there would no accurate proof of the living GOD, which makes us believers.

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

basically, my words and feelings are: there are a lot of hypocrites running around saying, "Gracias a Dios, Dios te oiga, Si Dios quiera, Con la ayuda de Dios" out of habit and not out of faith and conviction .

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

Douglas...yes, it's long, but worth the entire read, especially for a man of faith, like yourself

critter comments on When does one stop using the CULTURAL CARD??

QUE PENA CONTIGO= damn, I messed up...by letting you catch me doing something wrong/immoral! Doing the right thing when (they think) nobody is looking has no immediate reward in Latin America, so it seldom occurs. The following article touches on the subject of illegal immigration, provides a bit of biblical history connecting Latin Americans to Canaanites and Amorites, and gives some insight into the latino mentality: http://shamah-elim.info/p_katrina5.htm

critter comments on Hello World! (need help buying a house in Cartago)

word has it...there are a lot of mafiosos there in cartago

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

RESOLUCION EXTERNA No. 21 DE 1993 Artículo 38o. ADQUISICION DE DIVISAS. Deberán canalizarse a través del mercado cambiario los pagos en moneda libremente convertible de los siguientes conceptos, derivados de una inversión de capital del exterior en Colombia, registrada en el Banco de la República: 1. Las utilidades netas comprobadas que generan periódicamente las inversiones de capital del exterior en Colombia, de conformidad con las normas pertinentes, y 2. Las sumas que se obtengan por concepto de la enajenación (venta) de la inversión dentro del país, de la liquidación del portafolio, de la liquidación de la empresa, de la reducción de su capital o de la inversión suplementaria al capital asignado, previo cumplimiento de las disposiciones previstas en el Código de Comercio para cada operación. La Declaración de Cambio correspondiente deberá remitirse al Banco de la República, acompañada de la certificación expedida por el revisor fiscal de la respectiva entidad o contador público independiente, en la cual consten todos los datos indispensables para determinar el monto de los giros permitidos y el pago de los impuestos correspondientes. THE SELLER FILLS OUT FORM 4; THE BUYER FILLS OUT FORM 11 DECRETO NO. 2080 DE 2000 Y SUS MODIFICACIONES TÍTULO II RÉGIMEN GENERAL DE LAS INVERSIONES DE CAPITAL DEL EXTERIOR EN EL PAÍS CAPÍTULO I Principio general y definiciones Artículo 2º. Principio de igualdad en el trato. La inversión de capital del exterior en Colombia será tratada para todos los efectos, de igual forma que la inversión de nacionales residentes. En consecuencia, y sin perjuicio de lo estatuido en regímenes especiales, no se podrán establecer condiciones o tratamientos discriminatorios a los inversionistas de capital del exterior frente a los inversionistas residentes nacionales, ni tampoco conceder a los inversionistas de capital del exterior ningún tratamiento más favorable que el que se otorga a los inversionistas residentes nacionales. This means foreigners who establish residency are eligible to reap the same benefits as non-residents. The key is that the money is coming from outside Colombia. Artículo 3º. Definiciones sobre inversiones de capital del exterior. Son inversiones de capital del exterior la inversión directa y la inversión de portafolio. a) Se considera inversión directa: iii) La adquisición de inmuebles, así como títulos de participación emitidos como resultado de un proceso de titularización inmobiliaria de un inmueble o de proyectos de construcción o a través de fondos inmobiliarios previstos en las normas legales pertinentes, ya sea por medio de oferta pública o privada. DECRETO NUMERO 1844 DE 2003 Artículo 4. El artículo 8 del decreto 2080 de 2000 quedará así: “Artículo 8º. Registro. El inversionista de capital del exterior, o quien represente sus intereses, deberá registrar las inversiones iniciales o adicionales en el Banco de la República de acuerdo con el procedimiento que establezca dicha entidad y conforme a los siguientes términos: a) Las inversiones directas y las inversiones de portafolio en divisas se registrarán con la presentación de la declaración de cambio CORRESPONDIENTE a su canalización a través del mercado cambiario. IF YOU ARE A FOREIGNER MAKING A DIRECT INVESTMENT, YOU MUST FILE THE CORRECT FORM Declaración de cambio por importaciones de bienes.( Formulario N o. 1) Declaración de cambio por exportaciones de bienes.( Formulario N o. 2) Declaración de cambio por endeudamiento externo. ( Formulario N o. 3) Declaración de cambio por inversiones internacionales (Formulario N o. 4) Declaración de cambio por servicios, transferencias y otros conceptos (Formulario N o. 5) Which of you think that buying a house = services, transfers and other concepts (form 5)??? Declaración de Cambio por Inversiones Internacionales Formulario No. 4 Circular Reglamentaria Externa DCIN -83 de febrero 16 de 2009 VI. IDENTIFICACION DEL INVERSIONISTA (NACIONAL O EXTR.~JERO) O FONDO DE INVERSION (PORTAFOLIO) A. En caso de inversión extranjera en Colombia: 17. Tipo de documento de identificación, asi: CC= cédula de ciudadanía, CE= cédula de extranjería, PB= pasaporte o NI= Nit, si ya lo obtuvo. De lo contrario, indique lE= Inversionista extranjero. Please explain why they don't just ask for passport #'s if it's true that only non-residents can use form 4 in the case of a foreign investment in Colombia???

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

No, I found it in a buyer's guide when researching the subject. I just sent the 8 pg. guide to your email, assuming your display name is your correct email address.

critter comments on Colombian Woman Fights back In Landmark Erie, Pa Divorce Case--7 Week Internet Marriage Ends Between 53 yr old Dentist & 34 yr old Colombiana

Good points, colombiano_81. Did I miss something or was it not revealed what actually happened between the two (other than the supposed suspicious phone call four days prior to her and her daughter taking a "brisk" walk in 50 degree weather (spring temp. in the north)??? Personally, I only feel sorry for the daughter who has to suffer from the mistakes her mother, father, and step-father(s) make.

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

I hope this helps: Al Formulario No. 11 “Registro de inversiones internacionales” se deben anexar los siguientes documentos: Si se trata de inmuebles ya terminados: Certificado de tradición y libertad del bien adquirido en el que figure el valor del mismo y la propiedad del inversionista extranjero. De no estar disponible el certificado a la fecha de solicitud de registro se deberá presentar el contrato de promesa de compraventa o copia del contrato del negocio fiduciario suscrito para este efecto. Cuando se trate de la compra o adquisición de inmuebles a plazo en proyectos de construcción de vivienda: Se deberá acompañar copia del contrato del encargo fiduciario o, copia del contrato de la promesa de compraventa o, del contrato de fiducia mercantil, según el caso. Cuando se trate de la compra o adquisición de inmuebles a plazo en proyectos de construcción diferentes de vivienda: Se deberá acompañar copia del contrato del encargo fiduciario o de la promesa de compraventa o del contrato de fiducia mercantil, según el caso. En caso de la adquisición de títulos de participación emitidos como resultado de un proceso de titularización inmobiliaria de un inmueble o de proyectos de construcción o a través de fondos inmobiliarios, documento de la entidad emisora de los mismos que pruebe la adquisición de los títulos de participación. En contratos de construcción (mejoras y reparaciones locativas) se debe tener en cuenta lo dispuesto en el formulario No. 11 “Registro de Inversiones Internacionales”.

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

The fine is between 70%-200% of the amount stated on your declaracion de cambio...for you that means 210M-600M pesos colombianos. Here's some friendly advice, Lucid. You had better claim the full 300M on your form 11. Then you will only have DIAN to contend with. Lying on that form will cost you dearly.

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

Pedro, yes I have 1st-hand, recent knowledge about this particular situation; my wife is handling a case very similar to this one. Lucid, I understood your message perfectly. You wanted to know if you only needed the compraventa with the form 11, as well as whether or not you were going to get caught for fudging numbers. Pedro is telling you that there's no problem with sending over and making a declaration of 300 million for an investment and later only showing that a fraction of it was used as intended...I say you will need a lawyer soon...does that make me unfriendly? Here's the bottom line: If the figures from your declaracion de cambio isn't exactly (or very near) the amount you claim on form 11 (a legal document that you must sign), then Banco de La Republica must report it to La Superintendencia. Then the "super" will send you a letter of inquiry, asking you to explain the descrepancy. Then they will bring "descargos" against you.

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

"So wont the BdeRep wonder why the escritura says 50million and the money I brought in was 300mio?" No, they don't wonder about it. They know exactly what happened...that's why they will be required, by law, to report the "serious descrepancy" in "divisas de activos" with the actual "inversion directa" to La Superintendencia de Sociedades, which will launch an investigation shortly after you register the form 11. Sounds like you got played...

critter comments on Another Form 4 Form 11 question that will set my mind at ease

If you used form 5, then all the money (all your money plus any profits made) would be taxed at 46%...400M X .46= 184.000.000/2.564=$71,762USD. This is why you need to use form 4, followed by 11