Back soon

On June 22, my father passed away from pancreatic cancer. He brought my family to Bolivia for the first time from in 1967 for two unforgettable years. In 2001, he returned with my mother to visit again, having always held a special place in his heart for this beautiful land.

I regret the absence from so much which has been developing here in Bolivia and hope to return soon to the important dialogues in which this country is engaged. Meanwhile, I welcome all to join and participate on this blog.

Early morning explosions rock La Paz

About a dozen large explosions rocked downtown La Paz this morning, commencing at about 6:01 local (10:01 UTC). The blasts, lasting over approximately 8 minutes, appear to have come from the Plaza Murillo area. No illumination was visible from the blasts, and in the morning darkness it is still too early to see any smoke or other visible signs of damage. There is no local televised news programming scheduled at this hour. More as it becomes available.

(Today is Bolivia's Independence Day - 180 years since becoming a republic in 1825.)