Returned Peace Corps Volunteer John Arnold Rafter can be contacted at Jaraftermdacsdcom
Country of Service: Costa Rica
Training Group: CATIE & AG Research
Cities you served in: Guayabo & Turrialba
Arrival Year: 1977
Departure Year: 1979
Work Description:
We did inter-cropping experiments with small plot farmers to maximize output, introduction of new species, plot trials, insect reduction, forestation protection & regrowth, plus some village planning and architectural innovations.
Bring us up to date on your life after the peace corps:
Since PC and the wonderful overland travels toward home, I was a special needs coordinator for Jimmy Carter's CETA program for a year; since then I have worked in water pollution control and prevention for the Maryland Dept. Of The Environment on Maryland's Eastern Shore - with a focus on the Chesapeake Bay and it's tributaries.
Also I have been a spokesperson for MARYLAND VETERANS FOR PEACE, continuing since being drafted in 1967-68, to the present.
Any thoughts you have now looking back on peace corps days?:
These were some of the most eye-openning days of my life, and I was fortunate enough to made some of my strongest friendships in one of the world's most beautiful locations and most peaceful societies.
Anyone you are looking for or would like to hear from?:
Everyone who remembers Juanito, and the beautiful Mystic Manor of Guayabo on Vulcan Turrialba.
Any message for returned volunteers?:
You know we can always return to PC...as now we should be more experienced and qualified to help out.
Originally posted: April 21, 2007
