PLACENCIA SIDEWALK AR TS & MUSIC FESTIVAL! FEBRUARY 15-16, 2014 ON THE PLACENCIA VILLAGE SIDEWALK
CITIZENS SAY NO TO SOUTHERN CRUISE PORT Public consultations on Environmental Impact Assessments, as mandated by Belizean law for major development projects, tend to be dry technical affairs attended by a handful of conservationists or curious laymen more interested in the free snacks than the scientific jargon. That is unless you live in southern Belize.
On the night of January 22 close to 350 residents from as far away as Belize City and Punta Gorda descended on Independence Village for one of the largest such gatherings in the history of the Department of Environment. And what was at issue? The proposed development of an island cruise port by Norwegian Caribbean Cruise Line less than three miles south of Placencia Village. NCL says the project at Harvest Caye would cost US$50 million to build and host some 600,000 cruise visitors per year. According to the cruise line executives, their locally hired representatives and much of
the Government of Belize, the new attraction would be an economic godsend for the South, bringing a cornucopia of jobs, tax revenues and entrepreneurial opportunities for hungry Belizeans from Dangriga to Barranco. Lined up on the other side was a coalition of tourism industry groups, environmentalists and community activists who see the introduction of
Above: Former science school teacher and SEA Education Outreach Officer Abigail Parham-Garbutt pointed out glaring errors and contradictions stated in the EIA for the proposed Norwegian Cruise Line port on Harvest Caye. Left: Close to 350 residents attended the consultation in Independence Village located across the Placencia Lagoon. (CHANNEL 5)
mass cruise tourism to southern Belize as a complete reversal of Belize’s long standing and successful commitment to high value/low impact eco-tourism, a provider of largely part-time, low paying, seasonal jobs and just one more instance of a small poor country selling out its world class natural heritage for pennies on the dollar.
So who came out on top of this head to head confrontation? Of the roughly forty members of the audience who spoke only one came Continued on page 12
Large Crowd Expected at 2014 Placencia Sidewalk Arts Festival
Driftwood specialist Evan Leslie at work. See page 23. Look out for more Sidewalk Fest features in this issue.
The Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival is shaping up to be another major event this year. According to organizers, everyone’s favorite artists have already registered and works are busily being for the weekend. Artists should also be thrilled to know that accommodations on the Placencia Peninsula are booking out quickly for this month meaning many potential buyers should be out looking for the perfect souvenir. This year, the entertainment stage will be relocated from the beach
front to its original spot next to Sky Flower Hotel (formerly Serenade). Organizers say the move was part of keeping the focus on the arts near the sidewalk. The beachfront, however, will house the festival’s food court, which is expected to be bigger than last year’s. Non-profit organizations will also be located in this area. Performing on stage in an intimate setting are popular punta rock artist Pen Cayetano, saxophonist Bilal Sunni-Ali, Naphty and the Drums Continued on page 11
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PENINSULA HAPPENINGS FESTIVALS • LOCAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINTMENT • GAMES • FOOD/DRINK WHEN Feb. 8, 2014 Feb. 14, 2014
LOCATION Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
Feb. 15 & 16, 2014 Feb. 24, 2014
Placencia Village Sidewalk Placencia Village Community Center
Feb. 25, 2014
Placencia Village Community Center
MONDAYS
Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)
TUESDAYS
Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) Habanero’s Mexican Café & Bar (Seine Bight) Yoli’s Bar (Placencia) Barefoot Bar Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
WEDNESDAYS
Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach) Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
THURSDAYS
Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) J-Dee’s (Placencia) Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)
FRIDAYS
Dawn’s Grill & Go (Placencia) Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) Quarter Deck Restaurant at Laru Beya Resort (Seine Bight) Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)
SATURDAYS
Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar (Placencia) Robert’s Grove (Seine Bight) Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)
SUNDAYS
Habanero’s Mexican Café and Bar (Seine Bight) Yoli’s Bar (Placencia) Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach) EVERYDAY
Habanero’s Mexican Café & Bar (Seine Bight) Robert’s Grove (Seine Bight) Quarter Deck Restaurant at Laru Beya Resort (Seine Bight)
Courtesy of the Placencia BTIA
EVENT Rotary Club of Placencia Auction. 5:30 p.m. until all items are won! Artist Meet and Greet event on Friday, Feb. 14 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Tipsy Tuna! See who’s who before the big event on Sat & Sun! Placencia Sidewalk Arts & Music Festival; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. FREE full-day professional training session on addictions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for interested members & representatives of the Placencia & Seine Bight Village Councils, the Peninsula police force, staff from the Placencia Health Clinic, and Seine Bight and Placencia schools and churches. Snacks and lunch will be provided. Hosted by the Addiction Awareness Network of Belize (AANB) FREE public workshop from 9 AM to 11:30 AM. AANB will discuss addictions, how they work, how to deal with them, and ways to address this concern in our families and communities. Snacks will be provided. ALL ARE INVITED! Men’s league night. No open bowling. Restaurant and bar open 4 – 8 p.m. Daily food special. Phone: 601-4434 (Closed on Tuesdays.) MOJITO MONDAYS! Specials on Mojitos all day! P. 523-3089 All you can eat Mexican Buffet! Come try our Tequila Lime Pie. 7 to 9 p.m. Dinner Pick-ups available. P. 523-3565 Rotary Club of Placencia meets at 12:30 p.m. P. 625-2763. TRAVELLER’S TUESDAY! Specials on Traveller’s rum drinks. 6pm-close. P. 523-3515 TEQUILA TUESDAY! Margaritas 1/2 off during happy hour (5-7pm). P. 523-3089 Ladies Day. Ladies bowl 2 games get 1 free. Ladies only 2 – 4 p.m., open bowling 4 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 2 – 8 p.m. Daily food special. Phone: 601-4434 WET WEDNESDAY! Drink specials. P. 523-3515 WINGS WEDNESDAY! $1 Wings ALL DAY! Garifuna Drumming at our seaside bar, 7 - 9 p.m. P. 523-3089 Live Music P. 523-3515 TIPSY THURSDAY! Karaoke inside our sports bar, DJ in the “aquarium” and FREE Jello Shots on the hour, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m! P. 523-3089 Rotary Club of Placencia Bingo Night! Starts at 7 p.m. sharp! Couple’s league night. No open bowling. Restaurant and bar open 4 – 8 p.m. Daily food specials. P. 601-4434 Fried Chicken Fridays for Lunch. (And regular lunch and dinner menu) P. 523-4079 Fyah Dancing with Fyah Gal! P. 523-3515 Live Caribbean style music at our seaside bar, 7 p.m. - midnight. Reggae, Soca, Punta. P. 523-3089 Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Free bar snacks. Live music from 6 to 9 pm. International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. P. 523-3476 Open bowling 4 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 4 – 8 p.m. Daily food specials. P. 601-4434 Barefoot Horseshoe Tournament at 4 p.m. Cash + Bar Tab Prizes. P. 5233515; Live Rock + Alternative music with Da Man in Da Shadz. 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. P. 523-3515 Live Beach Music with the Persuaders 7 p.m. - midnight! Reggae, 60’s, 70’s.... Tel: 523-3089 Karaoke 8 p.m. to midnight. P. 503-3351 Poolside Beach BBQ Buffet, 7 to 9 p.m. Live entertainment. Dinner Pick-ups available. P. 523-3565. Open Bowling 2 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 2 – 8 p.m. Weekend special, $20 per person includes shoes and unlimited bowling. Daily food specials. Phone: 601-4434 Paella Night. Complimentary glass of House Sangria for each diner. 6 to 9 p.m. Pick-ups available. P. 523-3565 4 p.m. Placencia’s Famous Ring Game. P. 625-2763. Tropical Vibes Reggae Jazz Infusion. 6 - 10 p.m. P. 523-3515 FAMILY FUN IN THE “SUN”DAY! Make it a family beach day! Kids happy hours 3-5 p.m. with Kid’s Menu specials! Games & Beach Volleyball available! Live local music with Paranda Ambassadors at our seaside bar, 5 - 9 p.m. P. 523-3089 Open Bowling 2 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 2 – 8 p.m. Weekend special, $20 per person includes shoes and unlimited bowling. Daily food specials.P: 601-4434 Sunset Happy Hour. 5 to 7 p.m. $10 Margaritas. $4 Beers. $4 Local Rum drinks. Cocktails on the lagoon after a hard week’s work. P. 523-3565 Seaside Happy Hour and bar snacks. 4 to 6 p.m. $5 Local Beer and Rum Drinks. P. 523-3565 International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. Breakfast served from 7 to 11 am. Lunch served from 12 to 2 pm. Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Dinner served from 6 to 9 pm. P. 523-3476
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 3
Mermaid Takes Spotlight in Festival T-shirt Art Design Twenty-nine-year-old jewelry designer and painter Jeanna Casey loves mermaids. In her art gallery just south of the football field in Placencia Village, Casey is portrayed as a breathtakingly beautiful, topless mermaid with long flowing hair in a large, flattering painting created by her boyfriend Ernest Garcia. “I’ve always been a mermaid fan, but Ernest definitely made me fall in love with them even more,” she said. Her artwork for the 2014 Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival features an artist with palette in hand standing on the sidewalk working on a portrait of a Mestizo mermaid beating the Garifuna drums –somewhat reminiscent of her own life living with the popular Placencia artist. Casey describes her paintings, which she has been working on for the past six years, as more fantasy while Garcia’s – aside from his mermaid portraits – lean more toward realism. Garcia is widely known in Belize for his depictions of our amazing underwater and sport fishing worlds. The owners of The Art Affair Gallery promise to have an impressive collection of artwork on display at their tent at the Festival as well as Jeanna’s creative “rocking” rock jewelry pieces for women and children. Prices for their paintings, including Garcia’s highly sought after marine- themed creations, range from BZ$100 to BZ$3,000. Gina Casey has been living in Placencia for eight years and is originally from Camalote Village in the Cayo district. She and Ernest Garcia opened the Art Affair Gallery in 2010. Casey says each item from the Art Affair Gallery is a slice of Belize. ▪
Above: Young painter and jewelry designer Jeanna Casey submitted this year’s Sidewalk Arts & Music Festival t-shirt design (left). Festival fans will be able to purchase t-shirts during the event. The design will be printed in color on white shirts. Sizes and styles will be available for children, men and women.
INSIDE February 2014: Page 7: Couple Waits 21 Years to Marry Page 7: BTIA Board Members Commit to Another Year; Massage Therapist Joins Page 9: Find Authentic Chinese Food at Dragonfly Page 11: Retired Scientist Sets Nightlife Ablaze Page 13: Jewelers Bring Silver and Macrame Together at Unique Page 21: Kylon Beats the Odds; Placencia Teen Begins Dental School in Mexico Page 22: New Addiction Support Group Conducting Training and Public Talk in Placencia Page 22: Children Work with Clay at The Outlet Youth Center
Page 23: From Driftwood to Pumice: No Limits with Placencia Sculptors Page 25: Greta Leslie is Making Art and Telling History Peninsula Statistics Page 26: Concerned Resident Explains The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of Hitch Hiking Page 27: Rotary Reminds Community, Not All Services Are Marked Page 27: Placencia Peninsula Census Stats Page 27: PVFD Prepares for Flaming Heart Ball Featuring Taste of Peninsula Page 31: Placencia Sailing Club Seeking Sponsorship Page 31: Hotels Make TripAdvisor Top 10 Lists; Other Categories Unannounced
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The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 5 THANK YOU FOR PICKING UP THE PLACENCIA BREEZE! FIND US ONLINE: URL: http://issuu.com/theplacenciabreeze www.placencia.com PUBLISHER: The Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (Placencia BTIA) DISTRIBUTION: The Placencia Breeze is available free of charge at the Placencia Tourism Center, the Philip Goldson International Airport, nationwide airstrips and resorts, guesthouses, restaurants and bars, gift shops, banks and other businesses on the Placencia Peninsula. The Placencia Breeze has a print circulation of 2,000, as well as a large online web audience. PLACENCIA BREEZE STAFF: Jolie Pollard Executive Director Jonnell Augustine Financial and Membership Officer CHIEF VOLUNTEER PHOTOGRAPHER: Muzamanzie Photography PLACENCIA BTIA BOARD: Stewart Krohn, Chairman Steve Christensen, Vice Chairman David Vernon, Treasurer Doran Yount, Secretary Salva Zabaneh, Councilor lsa Villanueva, Councilor Evan Hall, Councilor PRINTER: The Reporter Press, Belize City, Belize The Placencia Breeze The Placencia Tourism Center, Placencia Village, Stann Creek, Belize. Phone: 523- 4045; E-mail: info@placencia.com or director@placencia.com
Debbie (Little Bit) Gabor has the solution to your Real Estate needs!
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Placencia Couple Waited 21 Years to Marry It took 21 years for Bernard Leslie to propose to Laverne Parham. Even though the marriage topic came up often, the spontaneous proposal still caught Laverne off guard and got her just as excited as any fiancé in a young relationship.
Each child was given a special role in the celebration. Twenty-one year old Shamir Parham and 20-year-old Bernard Leslie, Jr. joined Laverne and Bernard’s nephews as groomsmen. Twelve-year-old Aaliyah Parham was her mother’s bridesmaid and six-year-old Brett Parham served as ring bearer. Three nieces and one son’s girlfriend also served as bridesmaids and another niece was flower girl.
They couldn’t wait. On Dec. 24, 2013 just one month after Bernard slipped the ring on her finger, the couple held their wedding at D’Eclipse near the Placencia Village airstrip with close friends Bernard Leslie, Sr. of Placencia Village and family in attendance. is the son of Soila Dyer and Percival Laverne was happy to be marrying the Williams (deceased). Laverne Parham love of her life, but especially thrilled of Punta Gorda Town, Toledo is the with setting an example for her four daughter of Sylvina Williams and Alexander Parham. children. Both Bernard and Laverne are children of parents who lived in common-law unions. While Laverne respects that, she finds something extra special about marriage. The excitement from her children over their decision gave her even more reassurance that this was a momentous occasion for the family.
The couple are the owners of Ocean Motion in Placencia Village, a real estate and tour operator company they established in 1996. ▪ (Left) Laverne and Bernard holding hands as husband and wife following ceremony. The newly wedded Leslies planned their wedding in just one month. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY)
Placencia BTIA Board Commits to Another Year; Local Massage Therapist Joins the Team All but one of the seven 2013 Placencia BTIA Board Members kept their seats for the 2014 calendar year. Councilor Doran Yount, following two years of service, opted out of the elections at the 26th annual general meeting held on Jan. 9 to focus more on his role as president of the Placencia Humane Society. The vacant seat has been filled by Placencia native Kristine Small who is the owner of Tree of Life Massage Studio in Placencia Tree of Life Owner Kristine Small is Placencia BTIA’s newest board member. Village. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRPAHY)
Re-elected officers who kept their positions on the board were chairman Stewart Krohn, vice- chairman Steve Christensen, and counselors Evan Hall, Dave Vernon, Salva Zabaneh and Ilsa Villanueva. First time councilor Small said she accepted the nomination knowing that the advancement of the Peninsula cannot be left to chance.
Pollard reported on the great success of PBTIA’s four major events in 2013, the organization’s production of the Placencia Breeze, the new Placencia.com and the destination’s virtual sweep of the annual national tourism awards.. Pollard also introduced new Financial and Membership Officer Jonnell Augustine who presented the PBTIA’s financial report for 2013.
“As a Placencia native, I think it’s important that we be a part of critical community endeavors as the Peninsula continues to grow and develop,” Small said. “We should be involved in all decisions that will affect our future.”
In a more forceful address at the well-attended meeting, Chairman Stewart Krohn cautioned members against allowing large scale cruise tourism into the south. “This is not just a Placencia or southern issue; it is a national issue,” Krohn said. “It would irrevocably change the entire tourism product of the country and amount to a cheap sellout of the Belize we all know and love.”
In addition to the board elections, members were briefed by PBTIA Executive Director Jolie Pollard on the organization’s accomplishments and challenges of 2013 at the Placencia Tour- Krohn urged members to attend ism Center. the public consultation on Jan. 22 Continued on page 25
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Find Authentic Chinese Food at Dragonfly Moon
W
hen Dim Sum Chef Jun Ruan first came to Belize, his new bride Amy Chen took him on a culinary tour of Chinese restaurants all over the country. “I could do a much better job than this,” Amy recalled Jun telling her as he sampled different foods at a hot spot in Belize City.
Like many other Chinese business owners in Belize’s food industry, Amy operated a restaurant serving fast food favorites that have been shaped to the liking of Belizeans over the past 20 years such as chow mein, fried rice and even a special twist on fried chicken. But Amy was also tired of it and ready to offer something more honest and of her culture to Belize – something that would set her business apart from all other Chinese restaurants in the country and contribute to the dynamic culinary scene on the Placencia Peninsula. Amy ran Tommy’s at the corner of Main Street and Dukunu Lane in Placencia Village for one year, a restaurant she had inherited from her brother, the restaurant’s namesake, before he moved back to the People’s Republic of China. She had previously served the restaurant in various capacities on the business end working with her brother and mother since 2010. The family also ran Nang Kee grocery store near the village football field for some time before opening Tommy’s.
language barrier in the kitchen, “but everyday our bond grows and our trust for each other.”
Amy has inevitably found herself as the kitchen translator, but jokingly explained that she has learned that the art of body language is very powerful. They first opened the restaurant in December with a very small menu. “Jun wanted to ensure quality, and we also wanted to have feedback from the people to see how we should move forward,” Amy said. Locals were surprised at the major overhaul inside. The former austere fast food joint had transformed into a romantic, elegant, nouveau Chinese experience. Traditional reds, bamboo accents, dainty Chinese ceiling lanterns, and private dining rooms partitioned with delicate screens, tell of the owners’ passion for this venture. Amy also decorated the walls of the restaurant with Chinese and Japanese artwork to reflect the restaurant’s intended Asian fusion offerings mirroring that of the multicultural Taishan where Singaporean, Korean and Japanese foods all coexist harmoniously with Chinese cuisine. Dragonfly Moon Chef Jun Ruan has been mastering the art of Dim Sum
for 11 years. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRPAHY)
dients including vegetables, meats, seafood and sweet fillings. He was assigned to only work with the flour for three entire years before he advanced to other stages of preparation. Back home in China, Jun She closed the restaurant for a few worked in busy and strict restaurant months in the summer of 2012 for a kitchens located in major cities ingetaway in her home city of Taishan cluding Shanghai and Beijing. located in the southern Guandong province in China. Through fam- After arriving in Belize, the newly ily and mutual friends, Amy was wedded couple Amy and Jun who introduced to Jun, a handsome, hardly speaks a word of English, gentle-mannered young man who started the process of creating their was also on vacation from work, dream restaurant. They quickly beand a marriage was soon arranged came frustrated. In the afternoons, a sad and disappointed Jun could be for the two. seen sitting around one of their outThirty-two year old Jun Ruan took door tables on the side of Placencia 11 years to master the art of Dim Main Street. Amy wasn’t her usual Sum – small bite-sized portions of pleasant self. It took six months expertly prepared steamed or fried just to have the necessary Dim Sum buns, dumplings and rice noodles, equipment make its way from China which can contain a range of ingre- to Belize. Nothing could have been done in the kitchen until the equip-
She also sought the assistance from local business consultant Frankie Gagliano who assisted with the reconstruction process. It was his idea to play soft bossa nova music in the background. Amy, a seasoned traveler, likes it, but she’s more “It was amazing!” said Amy, “just interested in what her customers as good as back home in China!” think and pays close attention to Jun was happy to start working every comment from each person with his hands again and it took him who spends time in her restaurant. much time to experiment with the Many of them are repeats. locally available flour and perfect it to create his Dim Sum. “He’s an Marko and Katia visiting Placencia amazing chef, and it is a true honor from Russia have opted to dine to be able to work with him,” said around an outdoor table. They were James Roache, an American chef intrigued by the fact that it appeared who recently traded his popular to be the only restaurant they had eclectic restaurant “Ro Chez” in passed in the village that hadn’t Mississippi for the Belizean expe- been listed on Trip Advisor. “It rience. Roache has contributed his looked different, and the chalkboard skills in plating as well as assistance menu was very unusual compared with food storage and handling and to others we had seen,” Katia says. overall kitchen organization. “It’s They were blown away. “It was been a humbling experience for me,” said Roache referring to the Continued on page 20 ment arrived, and it wasn’t until everything was put into place and after being married for almost a year that Amy was first able to try Jun’s Dim Sum.
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Retired Scientist Sets Village Nightlife Ablaze
S
tephanie Wandke is one of in high school and she soon found the Sidewalks Arts Festival. While those truly unique people that the transition to fire sticks was it was very basic and amateur, the you only meet on a chance not that great a stretch. Now a teach- crowds gave her a roaring applause. encounter. At 26years-old she was an accomplished biomedical robotics engineer teaching surgeons how to operate with highly sophisticated technologies. She earned a handsome salary for her age, but she also worked 18 hours a day for five years straight with no time available for vacation or even a drink out with friends.
Placencia Lobsterfest. She is currently teaching a few friends how to master the poi technique and says watching them learn has been very satisfying. “I also see them coming up with new moves and this keeps me wanting to improve my own style,” Wandke said. “Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival fans can expect a really great show.” Her students, Frank Tate and Stefanie Beierschmitt, who have dubbed themselves “Frankenfire” and “Steffi La Flame” will join Wandke in a fire troupe called, “Wi Burn.”
Something had to give and with a little help from smart investments in the stock market Wandke kissed that world goodbye. Now, at age 34 and firmly planted in Placencia, she dedicates Stephanie Wandke is a show stopper in Placencia. Catch her fire dancing troupe her vast energy to doing the “Wi Burn” at the Arts Fest at dusk. (DANNY CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY) things that make her happy: planting baby corals on the world’s er of the art form, Wandke strongly “Everyone was super, super supsecond largest barrier reef, volun- cautions beginners against moving portive,” Wandke said. “This is why teering her time with almost every too fast, stressing that at least five the Arts Festival holds a special community organization on the lessons using the poi should be place in my heart. That moment Peninsula and even lighting up the completed before using the fire poi, gave me the confidence I needed to Placencia nighttime sky with thrill- a long chain connected to a square keep on performing.” ing fire dancing performances. wick made of flame resistant Kevlar that is soaked in kerosene. Wandke Emboldened by the enthusiastic It’s this particular activity that has usually performs with one fire poi reception, Wandke reprised her catapulted the small-town Wiscon- in each hand, spinning them in performance later that night at a sin scientist to celebrity status and hypnotic patterns around her body local nightclub. This time her long has won her the name, Fyah Gal to the tune of pulsating electronic blond hair, which was as dry as a – Creole for Fire Girl. music. savannah pine in May, had Wandke duplicating Michael Jackson’ Pepsi While the art form is very new As soon as she returned to Placen- commercial. An old friend from her in Placencia, fire dancing, which cia along with her two friends who robotics days who was visiting from originated with New Zealand’s also completed the workshop in the States, dashed over to her rescue indigenous Maoris, is becoming Guatemala, the trio gave an amateur only to have his shirt catch fire. an increasingly popular activity performance to a small gathering of Luckily, they were both able to quell in resort oriented communities all 10 friends. It proved to be quite an the flames but Wandke was left over the world. It was in 2009 when event as one of her breasts managed with an unsightly patch on her head two of Wandke’s traveling buddies to burst into flames, giving new that left her no choice but to get a she had met in Placencia contacted meaning to the term “smokin hot”. trim. She opted for a multi-colored her from Guatemala inviting her to “Everyone was yelling, ‘Your boob mohawk before transitioning to a participate in a fire dancing work- is on fire!’” Wandke recalled. Her playful pixie cut in 2012. shop. A year later on New Year’s hand moved fast to pat it out just Eve, she was across the border in before the flames burned through Fyah Gal has since become more a 30 student class practicing the her bra and she kept on dancing like advanced with her techniques and dancing technique with tethered nothing had happened. But a more fortunately, the flames have stayed weights called “poi” and learning serious incident was yet to come. on the batons. She performs frevery quickly. Just one month after her lessons quently at the Barefoot Bar and in Guatemala, she gave her first recently delivered a riveting show It helped that Wandke twirled batons public performance in Placencia at in front of hundreds at the 2013
Wandke pleads with the public to allow fire dancers enough space during performances. She also reminds everyone that fire dancing is demanding, risky work and applause and loud cheers are much appreciated. ▪
2014 Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival Continued from Front Page not Guns group from Belize City, Emmeth Young and the Talla Walla group from Gales Point Village, Frank Tate of the Untouchables and popular vocalists Amira and Karl from Placencia Village. The festival starts on both Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. and wraps up at 6 p.m. The newly formed “Wi Burn” fire dancing troupe will be closing out both days as dusk sets in. Visitors to the festival can expect to find unique paintings, jewelry, wood sculptures, pottery and more along the sidewalk starting near the food court continuing south to the ArtNSoul Gallery towards the new Placencia pier. For more information, contact the Placencia BTIA by visiting the Tourism Center or by calling 5234045 or e-mailing info@placencia. com. Continued on page 13
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Citizens Say No to Southern Cruise Port Continued from Front Page out unequivocally in favor of the project…and he read from a script obviously written by someone else. The position of the rest of the citizen speakers, having been treated to a Powerpoint presentation by NCL’s EIA consultant Jose “Pepe” Garcia, ranged from outright hostility to skepticism both informed and/or emotional. For some the presentation may have been too technical to comprehend. “I didn’t really understand it,” said Alberta Saqui, chairlady of the Women’s Group of Maya Center – the village which is the gateway to the famous Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary on the Southern Highway. “You have to be very scientific to understand what they are saying.”
provide services. That was not to be however, as when asked who would be handling the tendering of tourists and workers between Harvest Caye and the mainland, Darley told him flatly that NCL would be operating its own fleet of specially designed shallow draft boats between the island and mainland base at Malacate Beach. In response to the EIA’s claim that the project would generate some 250 direct jobs, a disappointed Garbutt remarked, “We’re not just looking for jobs, we’re seeking entrepreneurial opportunities.”
For Abigail Parham-Garbutt, the newly appointed Educational Outreach Director at the Southern Environmental Association (SEA) and former biology and natural resources management teacher at Independence Junior College, her While Saqui admits she wasn’t able agenda was to demand accurate to grasp the technical jargon of the data and a more authoritative EIA. evening, she did leave with a feel- Garbutt stirred the crowd pointing ing that her villagers and group of out many flaws in the 300-plus30 women would not benefit from page document, calling it “sloppy” the project. “My group sells arts and “insulting.” and crafts to overnight tourists. In the high season, we do well, but Stewart Krohn, former journalist, we struggle in the low season. I current resort developer and chairthought this would help, but I don’t man of the Placencia Chapter of the see any benefit for us at all. They Belize Tourism Industry Associajust want to brainwash people,” tion (BTIA), delivered a clear messhe added as she headed out of the sage that any marginal economic meeting, disenchanted, along with impacts the project may generate are far outweighed by the long term her husband. environmental, social and economic But according to NCL project de- consequences of mass tourism. signer Hugh Darley, the people who didn’t approach the microphone He reminded the audience that were the “conservative” support- despite all of NCL’s talk about aders of the project. “As with many vancement for Belizeans, Harvest agendas, there will be certain people Caye was really about one thing: that will express vocally. In many profits for the cruise line. This was realms that we work with, you’ve evidenced when Darley pointed got a liberal view and you have a out that if Belizeans did not want very conservative view. Conserva- to avail themselves of all these tive people, who have a lot of sup- juicy economic opportunities, NCL port for the project are very quiet would just have bring in Filipinos people. People who are outspoken and Europeans to take care of busiare generally in the opposition,” ness. said Darley to reporters after the Referencing the project’s touted consultation. title in the EIA as the “Harvest Caye While Darley’s analysis could not Nature Park,” Krohn asked, “How be tested, there was no mistaking on Earth do you dredge a million cuthe fact that the “liberals” carried bic yards of fill, “replenish” a beach the night by an overwhelming and dare call it a nature park?” He informed the representatives that margin. the term nature park is more appropriate for protected sites such For Lyra Spang, Placencia based owner of Cayequest Adventure and as Cockscomb, Bladen Nature ReTours, which operates cultural and serve in Toledo and the Guanacaste educational excusions in the south, National Park in Cayo. her agenda was to ensure that current visitors would want return to Belize. Also representing the Placencia “Many of my guests say they do not BTIA, Executive Director Jolie want to come into the area if you Pollard focused on the EIA itself, have mass cruise tourism,” Spang questioning its lack of clarity in told NCL representatives. She said describing mitigation measures her guests are reluctant to visit sites to address the massive dredging that could become crowded with around the island and the disposal of the resulting silt. daytime cruise ship visitors. Eworth Garbutt, an independent tour operator and highly respected expert fishing guide, wanted to be assured that local operators would be afforded real opportunities to
Linda Thornton, representing the Shrimp Grower’s Association, and an industry that has invested over US$100 million in Belize and employs a work force of 1,200, expressed her concerns over wastewa-
ter generated by the island’s 4,000 daily guests and employees.
with many major decisions still unmade. Independent tour operator from Several farms, including hers, are Belize City and representative of directly to leeward of the island the Federation of Cruise Tourism and depend on an uncontaminated Associations of Belize, David Alenvironment for their valuable and mendarez, pleaded with representahard earned green certification. tives to improve their research and Although NCL’s environmental carry out “better homework.” “This officer assured the audience that is not a rubberstamp meeting,” he NCL’s environmental standards said. “Let the record reflect that the were higher than those mandated majority of the people here do not by the Belize Government, Thorn- accept your project”. ton noted that the problem was not standards but enforcement of those Mike Heusner representing BTIA standards. on the National Environmental Appraisal Committee (NEAC), SEA Executive Director Nicole told NCL representatives that he Auil-Gomez challenged the EIA’s was unsatisfied with the EIA and claim that over 90% of the coral promised to categorically reject the around Harvest Caye was dead, an proposed Harvest Caye cruise port assertion which implied that mass when the NEAC meets on Feb. 12 snorkeling on the reefs couldn’t to pass judgment on the EIA and damage them—because they were the project as a whole. While Heualready dead. Auil-Gomez explained sner’s points may be strong ones that the coral cover is comparable to the NEAC membership is heavily that of Hol Chan – a popular marine skewed toward government officers reserve near San Pedro, Ambergris who may find the pressure from the Caye. Others familiar with the area political directorate irresistible. also testified to seeing healthy coral So where do things go from at Harvest Caye. here? Additional questions directed to NCL representatives based on in- PBTIA chairman Krohn outlined formation provided in the EIA also a two track strategy: One, demand touched on NCL’s plans to tap the full compliance with the law, inaquifer that provides pure drinking cluding the production of a new EIA water for Independence Village, by NCL and a more formal public Big Creek and the Placencia Pen- hearing to debate the pros and cons insula. of the project. The second is to convince the public and Government This was done without any research that there is a better way forward, as to the size or recharge capacity of namely follow National Sustainable this precious body of underground Tourism Master Plan. This comprewater. Speakers also questioned the hensive study, costing hundreds of way garbage from the island would thousands of dollars of taxpayers’ be handled as the EIA seemed to money, commissioned by the Belize conflict with explanations given Tourism Board and endorsed by by the NCL executives at the meet- Cabinet, states unequivocally that ing. the ONLY cruise tourism in the South should be “pocket” tourism The issue of the US$4 kickback with ships of less than 300 paspromised to NCL from the US$7 sengers. The Master Plan also says per passenger head tax collected that mass cruise tourism should be by the government was raised and focused around Belize City and the it was pointed out that Belizean tax- facilities there be modernized and payers would be reimbursing NCL expanded. for its entire capital investment over “It’s ironic,” pointed out Krohn, less than 20 years. “that on the very day the consultaEven though there were several tion was held the Prime Minister representatives present from NCL, introduced legislation in the House Darley was left on his own to ad- of Representatives to facilitate a dress most questions with consul- massive new cruise port investment tant Garcia chiming in on occasion. at Stake Bank in Belize City that It was not a particularly good night would create twice as many jobs for Garcia who was forced to take as Harvest Caye and accommodate the heat for what was obviously all the increased cruise traffic suga hasty piece of EIA preparation. gested by the Master Plan, including While the duo attempted to address that generated by NCL. Why do every concern, in most instances we invest a fortune in plans only to there were no definitive answers, reject them the first time someone revealing that the project team steps off the plane and waves a dolwas still in an exploratory phase lar in our face?” ▪
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 13
Jewelers Bring Silver and Macrame Together at Unique
Silvana Garcia and Kent Francis inside Unique jewelry shop on Main Street, Placencia. (JOLIE POLLARD)
N
ear the southern end of Placencia Village amidst a small cluster of busy shops sits Unique, a little jewelry nook operated by Silvana Garcia and Kent Francis. Here customers will discover a brilliant assortment of silver and macramé styles inspired by a young couple’s love for each other and their passion for the arts.
ing with silver jewelry with her Argentine boyfriend at the time. Before she relocated to the southern end of this Peninsula in the tropics, she took some time to travel upwards through South America and Central America where she learned how to create macramé from fellow travelers. “I didn’t feel the connection with silver, I loved the feeling of weaving strings together,” she Silvana is from Patagonia, a cool said. But someone was soon about mountainous region located at the to enter her life who would find a southern end of South America way to bring silver and macramé shared by Argentina and Chile. This into harmony. is where she first began experiment-
As soon as Silvana arrived in Belize 11 years ago, she immediately felt at home. The longtime traveler finally decided to settle her belongings in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye where she started to make and sell her jewelry. Then a young bartender and former chef from Belize City became curious about Silvana – and her craft. In just their first year together as a couple in San Pedro, Kent traded in bartending for silversmithing and even completed a course on the art in Mexico. “It came easy to me very quickly,” Kent explained as he cozied up next to his girlfriend in the shop behind a desk partially covered with unfinished materials. “Yes! Like that!” added Silvana, making a quick gesture with her slender hands, her almond-shaped eyes widening excitedly. “From food to drinks to silver!”
display intricate silver and macramé jewelry, many crusted with special stones of all colors, shapes and sizes. The couple has been participating in the Placencia Sidewalk Arts & Music Festival since they first moved to Placencia and have found it to be a very special event. “I enjoy the idea of different artists coming together,” Silvana said. “It’s more than just a festival; it’s a culture. This is where people can see what we as artists can do with our hands.” ▪
2014 Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival Continued from Page 11
Also visit Placencia.com for event details including registration fees and rules and accommodation listAfter seven years living in San ings. ▪ Pedro, Silvana made the move to Placencia with Kent in tow. They first set up their stall along the Placencia Village sidewalk just across from Sky Flower Hotel (formerly Serenade) where they operated their business for four years. Now in their little shop just below the hip Mojo Lounge, they have found added comfort for both themselves and their customers. Shelves lined along large mirrors on the walls
Don’t miss the Artist Meet and Greet Event on Friday, Feb. 14 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Tipsy Tuna!
http://issuu.com/theplacenciabreeze
The Placencia Breeze Ç February 2014 Ç Page 14
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 15
PLACENCIA PENINSULA MAPS Continues on page 18. Visit the Placencia Tourism Center in Placencia Village for a brochure copy of our Peninsula map! We’re located on the main street, across from Scotia bank just behind Re/Max.
From North of Placencia Airstrip to Riversdale
From Placencia Water Tower to Airstrip Barefoot Rentals
Bunches of Fun Banana Farm Tours Lost Reef
Platinum Designs
Tropic Air & Maya Island Air Placencia Airstrip
Beachfront Suites The Placencia Hotel Placencia Tennis
Distance from Maya Beach to the Placencia Hotel area measures approx. 2.5 miles.
RFG Insurance Avadon Divers
Ocean’s Edge Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro
Los Porticos
Green Parrot Beach Houses Joyce & Frank’s Bed & Breakfast
Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows Turtle Inn
Singing Sands Inn
Splash Dive Center Chabil Mar
Cocoplum Vacation Rentals Cocoplum Resort Community The Villas at Cocoplum Mission Bay Christian Retreat
The Maine Stay Goss Cordy’s Beach Cottages Chocolate Palmtree Designs
Bahia Laguna Beach Suites Nautical Inn
Lola’s Art Station’s Casino Buddy’s Bar & Grill
Seine Bight Village
Robert’s Grove Beach Resort Laru Beya Villas Miller’s Landing
Wild Orchid Properties
The Flying Pig Casa Nettuno
Get your Placencia Mooring Masters T-shirt at the Placencia Tourism Center and Sunova Beach Gift Shop. Profits help protect our Barrier Reef .
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 16
http://issuu.com/theplacenciabreeze
PLACENCIA CHAPTER OF THE BELIZE TOURISM INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION 2013 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY
Don’t see your listing? It is time to renew your membership or become a new member! Join the largest BTIA Chapter in Belize! Contact Placencia BTIA Membership Officer Jonnell Augustine at 523-4045 or accounts@placencia.com.
ACCOMMODATIONS A Belizean Nirvana: belizeanirvana@gmail.com; 5233331 or 625-3301; Evan Hall Arches /The:gin7373@aol.com; 479-841-7970 or 623-3286; Ginny Clayton Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows:taylors@btl.net; 533-8110 or 602-7768 Bill & Adriane Taylor Belize Ocean Club: reservations@belizeoceanclub. com; 533-4500 or 601-5602; West Tucker Blue Crab Beach Resort: sales@bluecrabbeach.com; 5233544 or 523-3543; Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson Blue Garden House: info@belizecottagerentals.com 207-326-9099; Costas & Sally Christ Captain Jak’s Cabanas: theluckyerin22@yahoo.com; 523-3561 or 622-7104; Erin Ivy Caribbean Travel & Tours **: info@ctbelize.com; 523-3481 or 523-3081;Veronique & Lance McKenzie Casa Beya/Sea Grape Escape: info@casabeyabelize.com 970-963-1099; Midge & Aaron Dallas Casa Del Sol: info@casadelsolbelize.com; 5233481 or 523-3081;Veronique McKenzie Casa Nettuno: framdani.office@gmail.com; 605-1648 Mariuccia Levoni Casa Placencia: casaplacencia@live.com; 5033143 or 630-7811; Jacki Tipton Chabil Mar Villas*: information@chabilmarvillas. com; 523-3606 or 523-3611; Synescio Coh Coconut Cottage: kwplacencia@yahoo.com; 5233234 or 609-4267; Kay Westby Cocoplum Vacation Rentals: rentals@cocoplumbelize.net; 623-7774; Aaron Krohn Colibri House: colibrihouse@gmail.com; 6050586; Stefano Ragagnin & Nicoletta Sala Decked Out House: inquiry@deckedouthouse.com; 503-3017 or 624-7168; Linda Burrow Dolce Cabana: nharvalik@gmail.com;523-3095 or 605-0586; Nicole Harvalik/ Stefano Ragagnin Easy Living Apartments: info@easylivingplacencia.com; 523-3481 or 523-3081 Veronique McKenzie Eloise’s Travel Lodge: 503-3299; Sonia Leslie Flamboyant /The: flamboyantplacencia@gmail. com;628-1143; Angie Markham
Finca: info@ctbelize.com; 5233481 or 523-3081; Veronique McKenzie French Louie Caye: kitty@frenchlouiecayebelize. com; 523-3228 or 610-3228; Kitty Fox Garden Cabanas: colibrihouse@gmail.com; 605-0586 Stefano Ragagnin George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse: gcgeorge@rcn.com; George Cowdrey Green Parrot Beach Houses*: greenparrot@mail.com; 5338188; David Allardice & Leo Ramirez Harbour Hideaway of Placencia: jimandcindy@wellerbelize. com; 623-3286; Jim & Cindy Weller Harry’s Cozy Cabanas: cozycabanas@yahoo.com; 5233155 Harry Eiley Hatchet Caye Resort*: contact@hatchetcaye.com; 5334446 or 523-3337; Dasha Shivers Heaven’s Gate Beach Bungalow:info@seasprayhotel.com; 523-3148; Jodie Leslie Hideaway Caye: hideawaycaye@yahoo.com; 665-4069; Kimberly & Dustin Ingersoll Jewel of Placencia: info@jewelplacenciarental.com 523-3481 or 523-3081; Veronique McKenzie & Joe Garipoli Joyce and Frank’s Beach House: h2odanzer@aol.com; 629-4285 or 561-389-2550; Joyce Danz La Caribe: ray@lacaribe.com or 631-5602; Ray Jennings Las Amigas: info@lasamigasbelize.com; 523311; Lydia Villanueva & Geri Salsig Laru Beya Villas*: info@larubeya.com; 523-3476 or 523-3483; Ian McField Lydia’s Guest House: lydias@btl.net; 523-3117 or 5233354; Lydia Villanueva Los Porticos Villas: reservations@losporticosvillas. com; 523-3227 or 607-4448; Barry and Valerie Snowden Lost Reef Resort*: lostreef@xplornet.com; 606-7262; Lisa D’Amore
Maya Dream Beach House: mayadreambelize@yahoo.com 523-3148; Jodie Leslie & Wanda & Roger Snell Maya Lodge: maya-lodge@hotmail.com; 6050586; Stefano Ragagnin & Lou McLeod Michelo Flats: harbour21@gmail.com; 523-3519 or 626-2518; Michel Ardoullie Miller’s Landing*: millersplacencia@yahoo.com 523-3010 or 523-3011 Gary & Ann Miller Miramar Apartments: info@miramarbelize.com; 5233658 or 523-3117 or 503-3095; Ilsa Villanueva Mirasol Villa: info@mirasolbelize.com; 523-3481 or 523-3081;Veronique McKenzie North Beach/ The: debanddave@btl.net; 523-3207 Deborah & Dave Vernon Ocean’s Edge: oceanedge@vl.videotron.ca; 514-606-5582 or 514-697-9435 Francine Martel One World Rentals: oneworldplacencia@yahoo.com 523-3103 or 620-9975 Claudia Hardegger Paradise Vacation Hotel*/**: info@belize123.com; 523-3179 or 523-3256; Alan & Deloris Stamm Pearl Beach House: vb53@centurytel.net; 523-3409 or 605-0586; Bud & Betsy Valian/ Stefano Ragagnin Robert’s Grove Beach Resort */**: info@robertsgrove.com; 523-3565 or 523-4367 Jean-Marc Tassé Sea Glass Inn*: brad_schofield@yahoo.com; 523-3098; Brad & Christine Schofield Seaspray Hotel: info@seasprayhotel.com; 523-3148 or 615-2925; Jodie & Norman Leslie Seaview Suites: placenciaseaview@gmail.com; 523-3777; John & Marian Chan Silver Leaf: yoliebrown@hotmail.com; 970-944-2550 or 970-944-0552 William & Jolanda Brown; Stefano/agent
Maine Stay /The: drewtravers@gmail.com; 523-3507; Drew Travers
Singing Sands Inn*: info@singingsands.com; 533-3022 or 520-8022; Jean-Marc Tasse
Manatee Inn: manateeinn@btl.net; 523-4083; Slavek Machacka
South Waters Resort*: southwatersresort@yahoo.com; 620-7320; Maria Cabral
Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro*: info@mayabeachhotel.com; 533-8040 or 627-4718; Ellen & John Lee
Sunset Pointe Condos: ewinche713@aol.com; 523-3314; Eric & Janis Winchester
Surfside Escape Resort /The: info@surfsideescape.com; 523-3630; Brian Mandziak Tarpon Caye Belize: info@tarponcayelodge.com; 523-3323 or 523-3322 or Charles Leslie Three Iguanas Villa: colibrihouse@gmail.com or 605-0586; Stefano Ragagnin & Joe Stark Toucan Lulu: reservations@toucanlulu.com; 628-8474; Paul Fanning Turtle Inn */**: frontdesk@turtleinn.com; 523-3244; Martin Krediet Tradewinds: trdewndpla@btl.net; 523-3122; Janice Leslie Village Inn: info@thevillageinnbelize.com; 523-3481 or 523-3081 Veronique Mckenzie Villas at Cocoplum /The: BMannsfeld@yahoo.com; 610-0294 or 628-6447; Boris Mannsfield or Erin Ivy Westwind Hotel: westwind.hotel@gmail.com; 523-3255 or 523-4016; George & Lisa Westby Whipray Caye Lodge: whipraycaye@yahoo.com; 6101068; Julian & Beverly Cabral White Sand Villa: eagleray33@gmail.com; 6619516 or 602-9315; Tricia Hernandez Yellow Bella: yellowbella@alice.it; 605-0586; Stefano Ragagnin Yellow House /The: info@ctbelize.com; 523-3481or 523-3081;Veronique McKenzie ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW Courtenay Coye LLP: tgongora@courtneycoye.com; 523-328; Tiphany Gongora AUTO RENTALS Barefoot Services: info@barefootservicesbelize. com; 523-3066 or 629-9602 Ian & Megs Yearwood Car Rental of Placencia: powerscandy@hotmail.com; 523-3284 or 662-6711 Candy Power CONSULTANTS Guild & Guild Consulting: guildandguild@hotmail.com 523-3251 or 523-3291; Yvette Guild Simbert Trading Co. Ltd.: restaurant@danubebelize.com 610-0132; Herbert Kollmann & Simone Gareis HEALTH, FITNESS, SPAS & SALONS BB Yoga Flow: info@bbyogaflow.com; 6317726; Agnes Balawejder-Busch Placencia Tennis: bobbelize21@gmail.com; 626-4015; Bob & Lida Rodgers
HEALTH, FITNESS, SPAS & SALONS Tooth Fairy Dental Clinic: toothfairyclinic@gmail.com; 502-0736 or 633-0678; Dr. Dalila Vanzie-Krohn Tony’s Gym: tony@belizefit.com 631-7427; Tony Pinder Tree of Life: smallkristine@yahoo.com; 624-5408; Kristine Small NON-PROFIT ORGS Peninsula Citizens for Sustainable Development: info@saveourpeninsula.org; 5233587; Mary Toy Placencia Humane Society: takunchances@yahoo.com ; 503-3177 or 670-4130; Doran Yount, President Rotary Club of Placencia: gregvwandas@gmail.com Jim Weller, President Southern Environmental Association:info@seabelize.org; 523-3377; Nicole Auil-Gomez REAL ESTATE AGENTS Boris Mannsfeld & Associates: info@RealBelizeEstate.com; 523-3063 Boris Mannsfeld & Frik DeMeyere Cocoplum: stewart@cocoplumbelize.net 610-1009; Stewart Krohn CPC Real Estate Solution: info@belizeproperty.com; 672-9000 Dan Dunbar & Michael Young Palmetto Bay Resort: info@palmettobayresort.com; 610-1911; Carlton Watson Placencia Yacht Club: lee@getdusa.com ; 653-0569 or 663-9087; Lee and Gail Dusa Re/Max 1st Choice: david@belizepropertycenter. com;631-9622 or 523-3666; David Kafka Waterfront Real Estate: waterfrontbelize@aol.com; 6103264;Patrick & Denise Callahan Wild Orchid Properties: tom@wildorchidresidences.com; 523-3392; Tom Hitchcock RESTAURANTS, BARS CAFÉS & ENTERTAINMENT Above Grounds Coffee: keithgmorrison@gmail.com; 634-3212; Keith Morrison Barefoot Bar: barefootbarbz@gmail.com ; 523-3515; Cassie & Brice Dial Brewed Awakenings: brewedawakeningsbelize@gmai l.com; 635-5312; Ryan & Natalie Dixon Friends Near the Pier: grambelize@gmail.com; 653-2550; John & Betty Rhoads Flying Pig/ The: theflyingpig.belize@gmail.com; 602-6391; Patrick Gonzalve
Please note some members offer additional services:
KEY: * Restaurant Siripohn Thai Massage: **Tour Operator jenjira01@yahoo.com; 620-8718 ***Property Rentals or 600-0375; Siriporn Thakham
RESTAURANTS, BARS CAFÉS & ENTERTAINMENT
SHOPPING & GENERAL PRODUCT & REPAIR
Dawn’s Grill ‘n’ Go: grillngo@yahoo.com; 523-4079 or 602-9302; Dawn Pollard
MnM Hardware Placencia: duncker@btl.net; 523-3517 or 523-3537; Dora Duncker
Jaguar Lanes: jaguarlanes@yahoo.com; 601-4434; Bob & Pam Thomas
Mosquito Coast Trading Co. Ltd.: rjay@btl.net; 523-8141 or 610-1441;Ray Twanow
J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar: Papaya Boutique: info@jdeesplacencia.com; 5 0 3- papayaboutique@gmail.com 603-3665; Marsha Cabral 3351; Daisy & Jeremy Leslie Mango’s on Maya Beach: mangosmayabeachplacencia@ yahoo.com; 533-8102 Frank DaSalva Pickled Parrot/ The: adriana37@aol.com; 636-7068; Lynn and Eugene Upham
Palmtree Designs: muzamanzie@btl.net; 523-3563 or 603-5143; Marion & Ed Carr Placencia Mini Storage: celeste1001@live.com; 665-0800 Paul & Celeste Smith
Purple Space Monkey Bar & Platinum Designs: hannah@sbplatinum.com; Grill/ The: 523-3169; 610-0327; Hannah Cowell Rick LaBonte & John Howarth Rumfish y Vino: rumfish@ btl.net; 523-3293 or 666-6934 Pamela & John Solomon
Robert Nicolait & Assc. Ltd.: info@watertreatmentbelize.com 523-3149; Lou Nicolait
Shak Beach Café/ The: theshakbelize@yahoo.com; 622-1686; Magda Morales
Spectarte Gallery: spectarte@gmail.com; 533-8019; Jenny Wildman
Stations Casino/ Buddy’s Bar & Grill: kiwarner2001@yahoo.com; 620-2391; Ken Warner
Sunova Beach Gift Shop: zabeyles@btl.net; 523-4060 Gillian Zabaneh TOUR OPERATORS & TRAVEL AGENTS
Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar: Avadon Divers Ltd: tipsytuna@hotmail.com; 523info@avadondiversbelize.com 3089; Salva & Gillian Zabaneh 503-3377; Phillip McNeil Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor: tizy.lory@virgilio.it; Tiziana Del Col Yoli’s Bar: regantrethewey@hotmail.com 625-2763; Yolanda Trethewey
Belize Luxury Travel &Beyond desorine@gmail.com; 626-0003 or 604-7471; Desorine Leslie Belize Trips: info@belize-trips. com; 610-1923; Katie Valk
SCHOOLS Bunches of Fun Banana Farm (PIA) Peninsula International Tours: bunchesoffuntours@gmail. Academy: peninsulaacademy.org; com; 624-4297; Evin Zabaneh 631-7648; Selena Lucas SHOPPING & GENERAL PRODUCT & REPAIR Added Touch /The: rrobin@btl.net;223-0054 or 223-1461; Robin McCutheon Art Affair Gallery/The: jenari_13@yahoo.com 604-1906 ot 503-3206 Ernest Garcia & Jeanna Casey
Cayequest Tours: cayequest@gmail.com;Lyra Spang, Mark Leslie; 633-6330 or 664-8699 Destinations Belize: mtoy@destinationsbelize.com 523-4018 or 610-4718; Mary Toy Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club: belize@tradewindscruiseclub. com; 523-3303; Melissa Rea
Artful Dodger Sail & Canvas: wmertensbelize@gmail.com; Joy Tours: joytour@btl.net; 523-3625 523-3325; Hubert & Karen Young Wini Mertens & Steve Lobban Moorings/The: Cardelli (Shrimp) Farms Ltd.: mooringsbelize@btl.net lact57@yahoo.com; 610-0480; 523-3351 or 604-2861 Linda Thornton Renee Brown Charly’s Gifts: charlysgifts@gmail.com; 523-3323 or 607-3884; Charles Leslie, Jr. & Ycela Alpuche-Leslie
PlacenciaAdventures by Land or Sea: placenciaadventures@yahoo. com; 523-3307 or 622-1886; Ainsworth “Cubby” Leslie
Doran’s Services: takunchances@yahoo.com; 670-4130; Doran Yount
Placencia Eagle Ray Tours: eagleray33@gmail.com 661-9516 or 602-9315 Tricia Hernandez & Rene Leslie
Goss Chocolate: sales@bluecrabbeach.com 523-3544 or 523-3542 Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson Leslie Tech Services: info@leslietech.com; 523-3323 Charles Leslie, Jr. & Ycela Alpuche-Leslie Master Plumbing: fredwalton53@yahoo.com; 669-1014; Dick Walton
Quest for Adventure in Belize w/ Splash Ltd.: ralph@splashbelize.com 610-1278; Ralph Capeling Splash Dive Center: patricia@splashbelize.com; 523-3058 or 610-0235 Patricia Ramirez Trip N Travel: lgodfrey@btl.net; 523-3205 or 523-3205;Laura Godfrey
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 17 INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Caliz, Apolo: caliz_apolo@hotmail.com; 634-0950 Celeste, Donna: bodie1949@yahoo.com Cohen, Howard & Karen: howard.cohen@sunnybrook. ca; 622-6695 Coston, Debbie: debcoston@yahoo.com; 523-8001 Edwards, Kim & Dan: thislldo.dan@gmail.com; 622-1656 Dial, Mary Ann: madialinbze@yahoo.com; 523-3209 Dusa, Lee & Gail: gail@getdusa.com; 523-3500 Fairs, Rick & Brigitte: ridgwood@telusplanet.net; 628-6533 Feldman, Babe & Karen: cabf@jasarinc.com; 610-0356 Ford, David: dfordassociates@gmail.com; 621-7587 Ford, Ken: kenneth.ferris@asu.edu; 636-8675 Fuller, Fred & Jacque: jacquecfuller@yahoo.com; 628-0992 or 629-6429 Gabor, Deborah: gringainbelize@gmail.com; 628-7004 Galipeau, Cheryl: chgalipeau@yahoo.com; 523-3329 Glessner, Virginia & Fox, Jay: vivij@earthlink.com Hall, Susan McMillan-Hunter: sebelize@yahoo.com Hess, Tina John Ford dba Cordy’s Beach Cottages: fordco@hotmail. com; 523-3341; 627-3150 Koster, Liliana: lilianakoster@yahoo.com; 663-8680; 665-5779 Pollard, Jolie: director@placencia.com; 602-9683 Smith, Stan & Mary: stanmary@btl.net; 523-4306 Taylor, Winston: wftaylorii@yahoo.com; 623-7971 Witter, Madalon: 622-3853
PLACENCIA PENINSULA ANNUAL EVENTS JANUARY: New Year’s Eve Parties are held at most bars & resorts. Take advantage of dinner & drink specials, party favors & great music! Look out for fireworks! Rotary Club Winter Beach Olympics.Register your team for fun & competitive games on the beach while supporting the Rotary Club of Placencia. FEBRUARY: Rotary Auction. Support the organization’s biggest fundraiser & bid on impressive donated items. FEB. 8, 2014 Placencia Sidewalk Arts & Music Festival. Pick up the ultimate souvenir from Belize’s best artists & check out the local music scene. Organized by the Placencia BTIA. FEB. 15 & 16. 2014 MARCH: Flaming Heart Ball Featuring The Taste of the Peninsula Sample a wide range of cuisine contributed by participating Peninsula restaurants & home cooks. Get down on the dance floor & participate in fun raffles. Proceeds benefit the Placencia Volunteer Fire Department. MARCH 8, 2014 @ TIPSY TUNA APRIL: Easter Break Join the crowds & go wild! Beach hotspots like the Tipsy Tuna holds bikini & physique competitions, eating contests and more throughout the raucous Easter holidays! Squeeze into packed bars and clubs & party all night long to popular DJs. APRIL18-19-20, 2014 Placencia Humane Society’s Furball: A big party usually held at a local bar. Expect live music and great prizes! Proceeds benefit the Placencia Humane Society. JUNE: Placencia Lobsterfest A mega beach party like no other in Belize organized by the Placencia BTIA & Placencia Village Council. Celebrate Placencia & its bounty of good food and people. Enjoy live musical performances, kids & family games and take a chance in the legendary Placencia Lobsterfest Raffle. JUNE 28-29-30, 2014 JULY: Rotary Club Summer Beach Olympics. Register your team for fun & competitive games on the beach while supporting the Rotary Club of Placencia. SEPTEMBER: The Battle of St. George’s Caye Day. SEPT. 10, 2014 Saltwater Fishing Tournament. SEPT. 20 & 21, 2014 Independence Day Carnival. SEPT. 21, 2014 Celebrations are held throughout September leading up to Sept. 10 celebrating the Battle of St. George’s Caye Day & Sept. 21, Independence Day. Enjoy small patriotic pageants and parades to large celebrations like the Independence Day Carnival Parade. Fishing enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Placencia BTIA’s Saltwater Fishing Tournament where anglers can win large cash prizes totalling up $10,000! OCTOBER: Barefoot Bar’s Halloween Party: Held the weekend closest to Halloween. Join Halloween enthusiasts from Placencia & all over Belize at the biggest Halloween party in the area. Costume prizes, drink specials & visiting DJ. Rotary Spooktacular Haunted House Held on Halloween this is sure to scare your kids! Expertly set up by the Rotary Club. NOVEMBER: Garifuna Settlement Day. NOV. 19, 2014 Celebrations are held early November leading up to Garifuna Settlement Day. Enjoy cultural pageants conducted in the Garifuna language in Seine Bight & watch reenactments of the Garifuna people arriving into Belizean shores followed by parades, punta dancing, live drumming in both Seine Bight & Placencia. DECEMBER: Placencia Mistletoe Ball. Fine dining & BIG party band! DEC. 13, 2014 @ BELIZE OCEAN CLUB, MAYA BEACH End of the World Placencia Marathon and Half Marathon. Enjoy the pituresque Placencia Peninsula while running on a flat route w/ many water stations. Hailed as one of the most organized marathons in Belize. DEC. 7, 2014
The Belize Tourism Industry was formed in 1985 to bring together tourism and tourism related interests to meet the challenges of a dynamic and growing industry in Belize. BTIA was intended and continues to develop as the accepted and recognized voice of the tourism industry in Belize and provides an important link between public and private sectors. The Placencia BTIA holds the largest membership in Belize.
HANNUAL BUSINESS MEMBERSHIPS Small 0-10 employees
Medium 11-50 employees
Large 51+ employees
$200.00
$500.00
$1,500.00
HANNUAL PERSONAL MEMBERSHIPS Student Membership Associate Membership Individual Membership Currently enrolled students of a Current fulltime employees of Open to anyone else wishing Belizean high school or university member businesses to support our mission! $100.00 $50.00 $25.00
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A Belizean Nirvana Above Ground Coffee Ar�ul Dodger Sail & Canvas Barefoot Bar Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club Blue Garden House Boris Mannsfeld & Associates Brewed Awakenings Captain Jak’s Cabanas Caribbean Travel & Tours Casa Del Sol Casa Placencia Century21 BTAL Coconut Co�age Colibri House CPC Reality Des�na�ons Belize Dolce Cabana Easy Living Apartments Eloise’s Guesthouse French Louie Caye Garden Cabanas George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse Grill & Go Guild & Guild Consul�ng Harbor Hideaway Harry’s Cozy Cabanas Hatchet Caye Hatchet Caye Office J-Dees Restaurant & Bar Jewel of Placencia Joy Tours Julia’s Cabanas Las Amigas Leslie Tech Service Lydia’s Guesthouse Manatee Inn Maya Lodge Michelo Flats Miramar Apartments Mirasol Villa MnM Hardware Placencia One World Rental Paradise Vaca�on Resort Placencia Bazaar Placencia Yacht Club Property Pro Belize Quest for Adventures Ranguana Lodge Re/Max Property Center Rumfish y Vino Sea Glass Inn Seaspray Hotel Sea View Suites Secret Garden Day Spa Secret Garden Restaurant & Bar Silver Leaf Siripohn Thai Massage Southern Environmental Ass. Sunset Pointe Condos Splash Dive Center (Sales Office) Splash Main Office Sunova Bou�que Tarpon Caye Lodge Tarpon Caye Main Office The Arches The Flamboyant The North Beach The Purple Space Monkey The Shak Beach Café The Yellow House The Village Inn Three Iguanas Villa Tipsy Tuna Tony’s Gym/Belize Fit Toucan Lulu Tree of Life Trip N Travel Tu�fru� Ice Cream Parlor Westwind Hotel Whipray Caye Lodge White Sand Villa Yello Bella Yoli’s Bar
55-D4 18-C4 92-A2 39-D3 98-A2 88-E2 97-C4 47-D2 52-D2 8-D3 76-F3 81-F2 93-B4 54-D4 55-E3 43-C3 42-C4 64-E2 57-C4 58-C3 33-D3 60-B3 89-E3 17-C3 10-F2 88-E1 61-B3 35-E5 35-C1 20-D3 27-C4 44-C3 62-E3 26-E3 46-D3 64-E3 65-F3 66-E2 67-F2 68-E3 69-C4 96-D3 70-C4 71-B3 7-D3 34-A5 43-C3 47-F2 30-E3 39-D3 43-C3 56-B3 79-E3 63-C4 4-C3 24-C3 90-E2 8-D3 95-D3 40-A1 49-D2 19-C3 46-D3 45-E3 46-D3.5 86-E5 28-C4 73-E3 41-C3 16-C4 74-D3 31-F3 86-E2 40-D3 17-E3 75-F3 8-D3 51-C4 43-C3 78-D4 32-E5 82-C3 29-F2 21-B3
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Find Authentic Chinese Food at Dragonfly Moon Continued from Page 9
(steamed bao filled with barbecued pork pieces) and Sweet Pleasure brilliant! The best I’ve ever had. I Bao. was really surprised!” says Katia, a vegetarian who tried the Sweet Prices range from $7 for a Sweet Pleasure Bao, a steamed delicate Pleasure Bao to $54 for the Bruce puff of dough filled with a light egg Lee – the ultimate sampling group cream filling. Marko, who had tried experience containing 20 pieces of Dim Sum in Chinatowns located Dim Sum. And for those who will in Canada and Australia and even forever cherish longtime Chinesein restaurants in Hong Kong, was Belizean favorites, Amy has left highly impressed. He had ordered fried chicken, a more gourmet verthe Crystal Shrimp – succulent sion of chow mein (fresh noodles pieces of savory shrimp inside a are made daily) and fried rice on steamed translucent dumpling. “It the menu. was amazing,” Marko says. “The dough was beautiful, and it was just The adventurous drinker might also as good or even better than the Dim wish to ask Tony the bartender for a Sum I’ve tried in other places.” BZ$50 shot of Snake Wine, a local custom from Amy and Jun’s native Amy Chen and her husband are the power duo behind the new sensation There is so much more at Dragonfly Guandong province, which involves in Placencia. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY) Moon that will “delight the heart” placing a venomous snake (in this as the English translation of Dim case a fer de lance) in a large jar Sum states. Customers can order a of rice wine. No fear. The alcohol la carte or opt for a 12-piece Dim deactivates the poison in the venom, Sum platter such as the Suzy Wong and as Amy explained, the Chinese (BZ$32). This ideal first-time intro- believe the drink is very good for duction to Dragonfly Moon brings one’s health. Her grandfather, who servings of Snow White (steamed is 88 years old, takes a small shot dumpling filled with jicama, car- everyday and is climbing mountains rot and spiced pork filling), Green back home.▪ Dumplings (fried dumpling filled with Chinese greens), Char Siu Bao
Tony the funny bartender works among friendly and professional staff. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY)
Fried, steamed, vegetarian, meat or sweet. Dragonfly Moon has something for everyone. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY)
Dragonfly Moon Location: Corner of Dukunu Lane and Main Street, Placencia Village; Specialty: Dim Sum Price Range: $7 to $54; Opening Hours: 6 - 10 p.m. (or later) Attire: Casual to Formal Extras: Romantic atmopshere for date night! Also great for large groups. Large bar selection and drink specials available! Marko and Katia visiting Placencia from Russia said they were highly impressed with the restaurant’s Dim Sum offerings. (JOLIE POLLARD)
Local business consultant and foodie, Frankie Gagliano enjoys a cocktail at the bar. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY)
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Kylon Beats the Odds; Placencia Teen Begins Dental School in Mexico According to the 2010 Belize Census, only 143 people in the entire Stann Creek District reported having a formal education at the university level. The majority live in Dangriga Town. It is no wonder why the family of 19-year-old Kylon Eiley of Placencia Village is very proud that he recently started his first semester in dental school. The youngest of seven children is also the first in his family to make it to university. Starting January 2014, Eiley has been studying dentistry at Anáhuac Mayab University in Mérida, Yucatán, México. His mother Rose “Teacha Rosie” Eiley, former vice principal at St. John’s Memorial Anglican Primary School in Placencia Village and private tutor, said she gathered up all her savings to get her son there paying for his first semester tuition and room and board fees. Determined to see her son complete his degree, she has been visiting with different members of the community requesting financial assistance. Without a steady income in her household, she says she is reluctant to apply for a loan. Grateful for his mother’s help and wanting to make his own contribution, Eiley is hoping to win a scholarship at the university, but he must wait until he proves he can obtain good grades and maintain them. Even then, however, the scholarship would only cover a portion of the costs, and he is hoping a few helping hands will come through. Eiley has always been a success story. He placed first in his class throughout primary school except for one year coming in second in Stan-
dard five. He was the first student from Placencia to advance to the district level in the National Coca-Cola Spelling Bee. He remained on the honor roll throughout high school and passed with As and Bs in all 10 Caribbean Examinations winning a full Government of Belize scholarship to Independence Junior Col lege (ICJ). Most recently, he graduated from ICJ with a 3.67 GPA and an associate degree in biology.
Anahuac and according to Eliey, in addition to his mother, his girlfriend is one of his biggest motivators. “We have been assisting each other to attend
contribute to the development of his country. “I want to become a professional who will assist Belizeans, keeping in mind the majority of low financial status that exists in the country,” he said. He decided to study dentistry when he realized throughout his career research that the profession was scarce in Belize.
our unique multicultural community,” he said. The young student finds Merida to be a stunning city and has found the people to be very mannerly, respectful and kind-hearted. During his short time there, he says he has quickly become aware of the prestige his university holds.
Reflecting on his success and the positive influences from his mother and friends in southern Belize, Eiley Eiley also finds said he is grateful for the himself function- privilege to have come this ing as a cultural far, and he is committed to ambassador for keep fighting to reach his Belize at Anáhuac highest potential. Mayab. “All my colleagues and Kylon Eiley is also the son lecturers have of freelance tour guide and been very wel- Persuaders guitarist, George The transition coming, and also “Judg” Eiley. His sister to Mexico very interested in Keirah Eiley is an accomhasn’t been knowing about plished cyclist in Belize. too hard on Belize. I always The Eileys are one of the him. While give a very posi- oldest native families in attending In- Proud mother Rose Eiley poses with her son Kylon tive description, Placencia Village.▪ d e p e n d e n c e following his graduation from Independence Junior in regards to our High School, College in 2013. (EILEY FAMILY) touristic environ- Want to reach Kylon? he developed ments and also E-mail info@placencia.com a close friendship with a the school for quite a Honduran family who had while. This includes been living in Belize for studying together for six years. The bond started the entrance examinawhen he first visited their tion, preparation for home to give their only the interview, the coldaughter Mariangel guitar lection of the required lessons, only to find him- documents, and much self teaching her brother more,” wrote Eiley instead. The brother even- from his campus in tually advanced to Eiley’s Merida. “I obtain standards in guitar playing, much emotional supand Mariangel later became port, and inclusively, his girlfriend and support so much inspiration system. Most importantly, to continue studying, the experience being ac- due to the peace that cepted into the Moya family she brings to me all taught Eiley the Spanish the time.” Mariangel language. Within three years is studying commupracticing Spanish with the nications and was also Moyas, he became so fluent, an honor student in he shocked his mother back Independence. home in Placencia. Eiley says he is eager Mariangel is also attending to return home and
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New Addiction Support Group Conducting Training and Public Talk in Placencia By Jackie Armstrong Volunteer Counselor, AANB contact@addictionbelize.org
On the 24th and 25th of February, the Addiction Awareness Network of Belize (AANB) will be conducting activities to educate and raise awareness about addiction, an issue of importance to Placencia Village and the entire Peninsula. The AANB is a recently-formed group of concerned residents of the Placencia Peninsula. The AANB’s mission is to remove the stigma and promote awareness and understanding of addictions (alcohol, other drugs, gambling, tobacco, and sex) through community outreach, education, support, and counseling services that are accessible to all people living on the Placencia Peninsula. Eventually they hope their efforts may be replicated in other parts of the country. The members of the AANB are passionate about and devoted to making a difference to the communities, families, and people who struggle with addiction. Addiction is a family disease and affects all of us and our communities, even if we do not personally have an addiction problem. AANB achieves its mission by educating and assisting the communi-
ties, families, and those struggling with addiction by conducting public outreach, training, and counseling services. This work will help to raise consciousness, create a public dialog, and break the stigma and shame of addictions that holds back our communities and those struggling with addiction. On Feb. 24 the AANB will be holding a free, full-day professional training session on addictions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for interested members and representatives of the Placencia and Seine Bight Village Councils, the Peninsula police force, staff from the Placencia Health Clinic, and Seine Bight and Placencia schools and churches. Snacks and lunch will be provided.
invited to attend. Snacks will be communities! ▪ provided. Please join us to help address this important area of concern Contact: Jackie Armstrong in our communities and homes! B.S.W. (Bachelor Degree of Social Work) Addictions Counselor/StuSeveral local businesses will be dent & Family Support Counselor volunteering and donating at this From Western Canada – now living event. The AANB is seeking dona- in Placencia Village, Belize tions of food and other small scale www.addictionbelize.org donations for our workshops. Please contact@addictionbelize.org contact us if you have any ques- Phone: 620-2848 tions about the AANB or would like donate, volunteer, or help in any way.
On Feb. 25 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., a dynamic public workshop will be held on addictions, how they work, how to deal with them, and ways to address this concern in our families and communities. Here is the place to share your ideas and The AANB is an open comget your questions answered about munity organization and would addiction! love to have you join if you feel strongly about this issue. OrgaThe workshop will be held at the nization meetings are held every Placencia Community Center. ALL Thursday. Let us work together and ANY members of the public to help our families, friends, and who are interested in this issue are
Children Work With Clay at Youth Center Anyone may volunteer to help at the Outlet Youth Center, whether Volunteer Artist monetarily to help cover expenses, sydne@sydneschinkel.com or by donating books, art supplies, During our recent stay in Placencia, sporting equipment, etc., or giving my husband and I had the good the gift of yourself and your parfortune of meeting Aline Habib ticular talent. You will be more than and Jalima, and to spend some rewarded for your support. time with the children at the Outlet Youth Center. With help from a It is easy to see that the Outlet Youth friend, Jose Luis, we were able to Center is a blessing to the children get local clay from Punta Gorda, in Placencia in that it provides a which provided a new medium positive community atmosphere, for the children’s creative minds. acceptance and encouragement for I was amazed and delighted by the good relationships, and after-school response they all had to working fun and positive creativity, whether with the clay, and how they were through art, science, physical sports, able to fashion so meticulously reading, or any form of worthwhile what their imaginations pictured. I healthy pursuit. am a professional ceramic artist and not new to teaching clay. What each Have something to contribute? Visit child chose to create was carefully the Outlet Youth Center or contact wrought and truly beautiful—right Aline Habib at placenciayouthcent from their hearts. I felt honored to er@gmail.com. ▪ be part of the process. By Sydne Schinkel
Interesting activities such as clay art attract many children to The Outlet Youth Center after school hours. (Sydne Schinkel)
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 23
From Driftwood to Pumice: No Limits with Placencia Sculptors
E
van Leslie’s work studio is a small thatched palapa next to Omar’s Guesthouse along the Placencia Village Sidewalk. The Placencia native sits on a bench near a bag of simple tools and a pile of sea weathered driftwood that he gathered from the beach. Some are riddled with holes and tunnels created by the hungry shipworms that munched through while hitching a ride on the waves to the seashore.
Evan’s driftwood carvings can range from BZ$80 for a small figurine to BZ$1,000 for something like the intricately engraved entrance sign he created for a private home on the Peninsula. The money comes in steady at times and at other times, the weeks can be slow, but this is his passion, and he dreams of becoming the Michelangelo of driftwood sculpting some day. “I wake up every day to carve,” he said.
He picks up a sun-bleached stick from the pile and studies it with a facial expression as that of a stern college professor. “I look at this and already know this will be an animal.” He flips it over at a different angle and pauses. “It could also be a mermaid.”
Stop at Jahjervan’s during the Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival and meet Evan. He is also a teacher of his craft too and has given lessons to students of all ages. And don’t miss the paintings from the Sandhill native, Tyrone Lockwood, holds one of his wooden bowls in front Sierra Brothers next door. of A Piece of Belize Wood Carvings . (JOLIE POLLARD)
Evan can be contacted on his mobile The driftwood specialist has been phone at 666-5967. (See Evan’s picture on mastering his craft for the past Front Page.) seven years. This former Placencia taxi driver and free spirit on the seas Want more wood carvings? says he can make anything out of Visit A Piece of Belize Wood Carving near wood. He enjoys the challenge of a SkyFlower Hotel. Wood Sculptor Tyrone commissioned piece. He also likes Lockwood creates expertly polished wooden letting the natural curves and grain bowls of all shapes and sizes made out of of the wood dictate the final shape zericote (ironwood), mahogany and rosewood. Customers will also find many other wooden of his art. sculptures created by Lockwood’s father RobMasks are this artist’s signature ert Westby who resides in Sandhill Village. pieces, however. Sometimes he’ll Lockwood manages A Piece of Belize along find inspiration in a piece of drift- with his common-law wife Mellaky Gibbs. wood to create the image of an ancient Mayan god or sometimes, And Say hit to Leo at his workshop near the “I’ll just make one really CRAZY northern end of the festival. Find delicate ablooking mask,” he said. But one stract pieces, birds perched on tree branches thing is for sure, and this goes for all and much more at this workshop packed with the artwork created at Jahjervan’s, all kinds of wooden sculptures handcrafted by “I never put the same style on a Leo. ▪ Right: Leo’s sculpted toucan. carving – EVER!” said Evan with (JOLIE POLLARD) much authority. See below for feature on pumice carver, Poet Bob.
Poet Bob: An Artistic Soul Reawakened
H
e only goes by Poet Bob and he is quite an unforgettable character. Quick to share his creations with others, Poet Bob does not shy away from a poem recitation in the middle of Main Street, Placencia Village on a hot sunny afternoon, and as soon as he is finished with one of his signature pumice carvings, he will proudly show off his work to those who can appreciate his artistic vision.
awakened Poet Bob. And while restless in a little igloo cottage on the beach in the north part of the village, he found himself carving a small piece of pumice stone. Soon after, “Every old lady was putting a carved pumice stone ornament in their potted plants,” Poet Bob said. Today Bob is more adventurBut this wasn’t always the ous with the case with the sixty-nine pumice stones. year old. For 15 years, His most recent Poet Bob had shielded his Poet Bob visits the Placencia Tourism Center to show off his creation is the latest pumice carving creation. (JOLIE POLLARD) artistic side from public pumice version inspection keeping all of a Mayan jade his works in an impressive storage “People have to hear this!” Poet head – close to the real size of the compartment tucked away in the Bob said Bianca told him when he famous museum piece featuring mind. He moved to Placencia in leaked one of his poems to her ears. his own twists with a lizard and 2005 where he quickly developed And so, as requested by Bianca, turtle along each side of the head. a close friendship with performing Poet Bob would recite a poem at His tools: “A box knife, a screw arts extraordinaire Blanche “Bi- every dinner with friends, and as driver and sandpaper,” said Poet anca” Barkan Felsher, a popular ordered by Bianca, no one was al- Bob holding his Mayan head while and beloved woman who taught lowed to speak in the middle of a revealing blistered hands from his ballet to many villagers and sat recitation. hard work. “I lost my dental pick. on the founding committee of the That was good for details … but Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music It was a glorious time for the re- whatever’s handy.” Festival. (Bianca passed away on March 8, 2010.)
And he’s no longer combing the beach for stones, but rather he has friends sending sacks of larger pieces from the nearby islands. He says he has a big one coming measuring about four feet tall and two feet wide. It’s going to be a tomb stone for “Suave” – his close canine friend who ran alongside his moving bicycle and never left his side. Suave passed in December 2013. Poet Bob will be carving on site at the Arts Festival. He’ll also be selling greeting cards featuring his poetry on the inside and a pencil sketch, created by a fellow artist, of himself along with Suave on the front. Fans can expect a book of his poems with an accompanying audio cd by the end of this year. ▪ “Ode to Miss Bianca” By Poet Bob Spinning with a smile In pirouette style To the twirling delight of her soul beginning flight And leaving with her foot the ground With one joyous and exalting bound She leaps into her dance beginning.
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Passing of a True Friend These past eight years that I’ve had little to no money, Have in actuality, been the richest years of my life. And Suave’s Spirit gave it all a magical quality Not just to me, but to everyone Suave met. His passing saddens me, but at the moment I will always be overjoyed that fate allowed me to Touch and share my Suave boy’s spirt, Love and energy that he gave without restriction. He happily took everything in stride. Even adversity, which I got through with him Complementing me with massive amounts of energy. Laced with trust and love which always gave me the edge Whenever I needed it. And the pride he took in doing his part Gave me the impetus to do the same My boy, my pride and joy ... He came from my heart and has now returned To fill the emptiness within from his passing My heart now has its counterpart and is filled with Most wonderful memories of our time together. And I am humbled by the experience Love him in a place where there’s no space or time And he moves with me through the rest of the life that’s mine. Still feel him everywhere Watching over me always Our souls’ entertwined 2014 – Placencia’s Bob the Poet
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 24 Contribute to the Placencia Breeze! Community events, BTIA member profiles, Pictures of Placencia ... Think you have a good idea? E-mail us! info@placencia.com
MEMBER NOTICE: The law office of Courtenay Coye is now providing notarization service. See listing in membership directory. 2014 LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICANTS Notice is hereby given that Beverly Cabral has applied for a Hotel Liquor License for the year 2014 to be operated at Whipray Caye Lodge located near Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. Notice is hereby given that Xiong Bing Li has applied for a Nite Club Liquor License for the year 2014 to be operated at M & U Restaurant in Seine Bight Village, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. Notice is hereby given that Joyce Danz has applied for a Beer Liquor License for the year 2014 to be operated at Joyce & Frank’s Bread and Breakfast at Lot 688 in Maya Beach, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. Notice is hereby given that Rong Man Li has applied for a Shop Liquor License for the year 2014 to be operated at Placencia Store in Placencia Village, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. Notice is hereby given that Jing Tao Li has applied for a Shop Liquor License for the year 2014 to be operated at Ming’s Super Store in Independence Village, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. Editor’s Note: Our apologies to Beverly Cabral and Rong Man Li for neglecting to include their notifications in our January issue as they had requested.
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 25
Greta Leslie is Making Art and Telling History
T
he Art N Soul Gallery is at the last stop at the Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival, but it’s certainly worth a look as it boasts the widest selection of pieces on the Peninsula featuring artwork from over 40 Belizean artists. Store owner and manager Greta Leslie is an artist herself. Her work is in such high demand and sells out so quickly that a customer is lucky to find one of her paintings among the 100 or more pieces inside. She has been busy lately with commissioned work and taking care of her four daughters. Her work in progress is a bird’s eye view of Placencia Point. In some way, the daughter of a painter has become a historian of sorts capturing special personalities and scenes of the Placencia community that hold significant importance. Some images in her
Greta Leslie working on a scene of Placencia Point in her latest commissioned piece. (JOLIE POLLARD)
paintings are now unrecognizable as the Peninsula has continued to experience a boom in development. However, Leslie describes her
paintings as visionary art. “I like to make artwork that transcends the viewer out of his material environment and brings him closer to a
spiritual awareness.” Greta Leslie can be contacted at 503-3088. ArtNSoul opens from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.▪
Placencia BTIA Board Commits to Another Year; Local Massage Therapist Joins the Team Continued from Page 7 at the Independence High School auditorium on the Environmental Impact Assessment submitted by Norwegian Cruise Line for their proposed port on Harvest Caye. He also encouraged members to submit their views on the EIA to the Department of Environment. NCL proposes to land 600,000 cruise ship passengers annually on the caye which lies less than three miles south of Placencia Village. Special guest speaker and newly appointed OCEANA Belize Country Director Jannelle Chanona told members that mass cruise tourism in the south is of great concern to her along with other OCEANA issues including illegal gill netting and offshore drilling. Chanona, an accomplished Belizean journalist,
BTIA National President Herbert Haylock (left) joins (back row, left to right) Ilsa Villanueva, Stewart Krohn, Krisine Small, Steve Christensen, Salva Zabaneh, (front row, left to right) Evan Hall and Dave Vernon. (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY)
stressed the importance of keeping informed and learning the truth behind major issues in order to make the right decisions for Belize.
Special guests in attendance included representatives from the Placencia and Seine Bight Village Councils, Southern Environmental Association, the Placencia Fish-
ermen’s Cooperative and BTIA National President Herbert Haylock who conducted the board elections.▪
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Concerned Resident Explains The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of Hitch Hiking By Kenneth Ferris Breeze Contributor kenneth.ferris@asu.edu
A good friend of mine asked me to tackle this subject for possible publication. His idea was to address an issue that seems to be highly controversial and filled with inaccurate information here on the Peninsula. I do so with some trepidation since emotions seem to run high on the subject and opinions don’t seem to require any real hard facts to support them. But his premise is valid. If we can put this issue on the table and take a good balanced look at it, perhaps there will be less animosity and more understanding on the part of all sides. So here goes. Walking was mankind’s first means of transportation. Our legs have served us well since our first steps as a species. Over time other means were created – animals, wheels, carriages, bicycles, cars, busses, trains, and airplanes all gave us more efficient means of moving ourselves from one place to another. But all things called ‘progress’ come with a price. Not everyone always has access to the latest mode. Someone walking from point A to point B can usually do so on his own two feet and legs. It may take more time than traveling by motorized means but if time is not crucial, he will eventually get to where he wants to go. If the distance is far it will take considerable time. Some folks actually prefer to walk as much as possible, believing it to be healthy and granting them a calm sense of independence. Others prefer to drive or take a bus whenever possible in order to save time. Different strokes, different folks. Still others would prefer to travel by auto if given the chance but they do not have a car or a driver’s license. So they walk, not by choice but by necessity. Even those with cars and licenses occasionally find themselves stranded due to mechanical failure or lack of fuel. So they, too, must walk. Anyone of us could be on foot at any given time. Many times, the person on foot is desirous of being in a car or truck instead. When another person passes by in a car or truck, the walker often requests a ride by extending his thumb or his hand or waving his arm. This practice exists everywhere there are people and vehicles. In some countries it’s called ‘hitch-hiking’. Others call it a ‘lift’, a ‘ride’, a ‘hop’, etc. By any name the process is the same – the one on foot beseeches the one with wheels to allow him entrance to his vehicle for the purpose of getting farther down the road. It
Travel blogger Swim Karim hitchikes at Hopkins bus stop on the Southern Highway along with a local family and other tourists. (BEYONDTHEDIPLOMA.WORDPRESS.COM)
seems simple enough. But it isn’t. The desire of the person on foot is usually simple. The decision of the person with the vehicle is not. The driver is torn between two opposing forces: the humanitarian instinct to help our fellow man; and pragmatic instinct for self-preservation and safety. If all peoples of the world were good and decent folks there would usually be no issue. But that is not the case. Police logs the world over are filled with cases of theft, assault, and murder at the hands of a seemingly innocent ‘hitch-hiker.’ Every- Placencia Breeze editor Jolie Pollard hitching a ride through the Cayo hills in the one is aware of the danger of back of a stranger’s pick up truck. (DANIEL MARTIN) picking up a stranger. It gives one pause. But there are other every case, the driver has been offer rides to wherever the person concerns involved as well. held responsible both financially is going. He may also be aware Police logs are also filled with a and legally. Some drivers have that of the many vehicles traveling wide variety of scams perpetrated been imprisoned as a result of their that road on that day, someone will on kind-hearted drivers who offer decision to allow another into their probably recognize the hitchhiker rides to seemingly innocent strang- vehicle. Male drivers have been and offer a ride. ers. The reverse is also true. Many accused of attempted rape by fekind-hearted hitchhikers have been male riders. Drivers have had their Belize is a small country but we still mistreated by criminal drivers. It’s vehicles stolen by the very people do not know each and everyone in not an easy situation to decide in they stopped to help. Drivers have our world. If a car is traveling at the moment it takes for a vehicle been assaulted and robbed. The list the speed limit it is easy to not see the person with their hand out or to to pass by the person on the side of goes on and on. recognize them even if we do see the road requesting a ride. There is It’s easy for the person on foot to them. And most folks are simply also the liability issue. feel anger when a driver passes not going to put themselves at risk In most countries, including Belize, him by. After all, it doesn’t cost for an unknown stranger. If we when you allow someone access the driver anything to add a pas- lived in a different world it might to your vehicle you assume liabil- senger. Why would he not stop and be otherwise, but we don’t. ity for their safety. If you should offer a ride? Must be arrogance, have an accident and the person is or discrimination, or lack of car- So the next time we find ourselves injured, you are responsible. Here ing, right? Not necessarily. The on either side of this issue it would on the Peninsula we are all familiar driver may simply be aware of the be wise to remember the old cliché with cases where hitchhikers have risks and not willing to take them. about ‘walking a mile in his shoes.’ been injured or died when the ve- He may also be aware that busses Every story has two sides.▪ hicle had an accident. In nearly come by throughout the day that
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 27
Rotary Reminds Community, Not All Services Are Marked Canada to assist with this program. When the school year begins in Placencia Rotarian maretha_mccullock@yahoo.com September, we distribute dictionaries to every Standard III student The Rotary Club of Placencia has in Placencia, Seine Bight, Indebeen very busy over the years. You pendence and Monkey River. And can see our official club signs in in October, our members put their many different locations around talents forward in putting together Placencia and Seine Bight identi- a spooky Haunted House. Proceeds fying our infrastructural projects from that event support the local such as the picnic tables on the new Christmas Toy Drive. Placencia Municipal Pier. However, there are several jobs that we do We also need to mention that last every year that have no signs, and December, we distributed food we thought you should know. baskets to senior citizens in need By Maretha McCullock
Every May Rotary hosts a luncheon for the senior citizens of Placencia and Seine Bight. In July we run a two-week Summer Reading Program in both Placencia and Seine Bight Villages for students about to enter Standard I who are behind in their reading skills. There are several teachers who travel from
who are living in Placencia and Seine Bight.
Our successful scholarship program for high school students continue and the list grows each year.
Placencia Rotarian Wanda Stakutis delivers groceries to an elderly woman in Seine Bight Village. (MARETHA MCCULLOCK)
Join in on the movement! Rotary meets every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at Yoli’s Bar. ▪
SAVE THE DATE! Rotary’s Auction is coming up on Feb. 8 at the Tipsy Tuna! And don’t miss Bingo every Thursday night at J-Dee’s! (See Event Calendar, page 2.)
Placencia Peninsula Census Statistics
Figures extracted from Belize Census 2010 data reported by the Statistical Institute of Belize.
Placencia Village Seine Bight Village Maya Beach Riversdale
0-2
3-4
5-12
72 102 17 50
61 50 7 20
178 241 18 89
AGE GROUPS 13-16 17-19 20-24 25-29 30-34 35-39 40-44 45-49 50-54 55-59 60-64 65 and Over 98 77 171 166 147 122 93 78 59 68 43 74 110 55 105 105 87 82 53 41 43 30 24 38 7 13 15 24 16 11 16 13 19 16 16 17 34 37 65 57 55 44 32 26 18 10 5 12
N/A 5 0 0 1
Table 1. Population of respective communities by AGE GROUPS. (Note that the 2010 Census was conducted during the summer months when some residents may have been out of the country. This was reported to have been the case in the predominantly North American retirement community, Maya Beach.) More tables will be included in upcoming issues of the Placencia Breeze. Contact the Placencia Tourism Center at info@placencia.com for an electronic version of the complete data sheet submitted by the Statisical Institute of Belize. In our January 2014 issue we reported statistics on populations of respective communities by SEX and ETHNICITY. Visit our website if you missed it.
Placencia Volunteer Fire Department is Calling All to Support Upcoming Flaming Heart Ball Featuring The Taste of the Peninsula By Tracey Eiley Community Volunteer placenciapirates@yahoo.com
Calling all chefs!
highlight your unique and wonderful eating establishment, catering service or even fantastic home kitchen! This event gives every contributor an opportunity to show the community your special talents! And it gives community members and visitors an opportunity to try “a taste” of the many unique and delicious menus we are so fortunate to have on the Peninsula!
On March 8, 2014 the Placencia Volunteer Fire Department will once again be hosting the very popular Annual Flaming Heart Ball. This is the seventh time this event will be held and we want to make Our food committee members will it the best one yet! be contacting you shortly to ask for Our fantastic Fire Department is your participation! in need of new fire-fighting equipment and supplies and this is their If you have not donated in the past signature fund raising event. They and would like to participate, or need our support for this essential would like further information, please contact Gail Smith @ 629community service! 1138 orgailgustafson.smith@gmail. We are asking that you participate com. by donating an appetizer, starter or dessert which can be served in small We would love to include your portions for the guests to try at the contribution in our famous “Taste of upcoming Flaming Heart Ball. Your Placencia” and on our list of all the donation will be an opportunity to very best chefs on the Peninsula. ▪
Date: Sat. Mar. 8, 2014 ... Location: Tipsy Tuna ... Bar opens 5 p.m. Food served 6-8 p.m. ... Dance to follow 8 p.m. - 2 a.m. Various local artists will be performing!!! Starting Feb. 14, tickets can be purchased from: Pickled Parrot, Placencia Rotary Club members, and Volunteer Fire Department persons. Tickets will also be on sale at the door at the Tipsy Tuna. Price to be announced soon! Volunteers welcomed! ANY QUESTIONS? Call GAIL SMITH at phone number 501-629-1138.
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PLACENCIA PENINSULA GUIDE
PAID LISTINGS. TO ADVERTISE CALL 523-4045 OR E-MAIL INFO@PLACENCIA.COM
ACCOMMODATIONS South of Airstrip
One World Rentals: Eight beautiful, comfortable and immaculate studios and apartments around an attractive courtyard . Cable TV, free wireless internet access, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, fully screened, hammocks. Located in the heart of Placencia (behind the “Rumfish” restaurant) close to the beach, shopping and restaurants. www.oneworldplacencia.com. Contact Swiss owner Claudia Hardegger at 523.3103 or 620.9975. Email: oneworldplacencia@yahoo.com. MC, VISA accepted. Rates from US$49 plus tax. Paradise Resort: Has most of the amenities & all the luxury of a large hotel. We
are located on the ocean front. 12 A/C rooms. On site full service restaurant & bar, spa by the sea, all eco tours, diving, snorkeling, fishing, roof top Jacuzzi, Wi-Fi, dive shop, gift shop, kayak and golf cart rental. Maya & Tropic Air agent. Email:info@belize123. com or give us a call at 523-3179/503-3479 Website:www.belize123.com
Ranguana Lodge: Five private ocean view cabins located right on the beach in
the heart of Placencia Village: We have 3 private air-conditioned beach cabins each w/ 2 Double beds, fans, large refrigerator, coffee makers, private bath w/ hot/cold shower, private balcony w/ a hammock. We also have two other cabins with full kitchens, 2 double beds, fans, private bath with hot & cold shower & tub, private balcony with a hammock. Beach Palapas, beach chairs. Tropic Air agent, Gift shop. Phone/fax at 011501-523-3112, E-mail: Ranguana@btl.net website: www.ranguanabelize.com
Tarpon Caye Belize: Offers a unique experience in quality service. Our island sits
in the middle of the Victoria. Snorkel the rich, vibrant fringe reef the island sits on; the famous Gladden Spit Whale Shark zone 6 miles away; dive sites are nearby; largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere only 6 miles away...or simply relax with a cold drink in your hand and enjoy the cool Caribbean sea breeze lapping on your skin. We have 3 cabins that can accommodate 6 comfortably. More information: 501-523-3323 – info@tarponcaye.com – www.tarponcaye.com – Facebook: facebook.com/tarponcaye
The North Beach: Offers luxury suites in our sea view villa with full kitchens, living
areas and configurations from one to five bedrooms. Each suite has air conditioning, ceiling fans, cable t.v. & phone. Located north end of the sidewalk-walking distance to services. The perfect spot to enjoy Placencia Village. Contact us at phone 523 -3207, e-mail info@thenorthbeach.com. or visit www.thenorthbeach.com
Tradewinds: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea & the Mountains of Belize! 9 Cabanas w/ private bath, hot/cold, 2 double beds, fans, coffee maker (coffee provided), refrigerator & veranda w/ hammock. Tel: 523-3122; Email: trdewndpla@btl.net North of Airstrip: Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows: Two bungalows in Maya Beach. Full kitchen, queen bed, sleeper sofa, h/w, fans, Wi-Fi, comp. kayaks and bikes. Contact: taylors@btl.net. 533-8110. www.barnaclebills-belize.com. Green Parrot Beach Houses: Maya Beach: 6 mahogany beach houses, loft
Tarpon Caye Belize: Offers a unique experience, not only in quality service, but
also from our island’s geographic location – sits in the middle of the Victoria – snorkel the rich and vibrant fringe reef the island sits on; the famous Gladden Spit Whale Shark zone 6 miles away; dive sites are nearby; largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere only 6 miles away...or simply relax with a cold drink in your hand on a private island and enjoy the cool Caribbean sea breeze lapping on your skin. We have 3 cabins that can accommodate 6 comfortably. More information: 501-523-3323 – info@tarponcaye. com – www.tarponcaye.com – Facebook: facebook.com/tarponcaye
Whipray Caye Lodge: Whipray Caye is a magical private island in the heart of some of the best fly fishing flats in the world. This caye has room to roam, with two spacious 2-room guest cabanas, private bath in each room, and verandas facing a glorious Belizean sunrise. Hearty family-style meals are served in our thatched roof restaurant and “Sea Urchin Bar”. Enjoy the natural unspoiled beauty of the coral reef surrounding the caye, chock full of beautiful tropical fish of all shapes and sizes, rays, sharks, turtles, crab, and even the occasional manatee, all nurtured by the abundant mangroves on the southern half of the caye. Owner and renowned fly fishing guide Julian Cabral and his wife Beverly will make your stay a memorable one. PHONE: 501-608-8130, CELL: 501-610-1068, EMAIL: whipraycaye@yahoo.com, WEB: www. whipraycayelodge.com
DINING South of Airstrip De’Tatch Seafood Beach Grill & Bar: Serving the very best in Seafood and Local Cuisines. Open Mon-Sunday (Closed... on Wed)7am until 10pm for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (daily and nightly lunch & seafood dinner special). Come Enjoy the Perfect View (beach front), Great food, Great drink and Music to sooth the soul. Internet & Wireless also available. For Info or Take out orders please call: 503-3385 Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar: Fine dining in A/C comfort or outdoor on
the Patio. Specializing in Spanish & Creole. Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch & dinner 7am - 10pm. Located on the Main Road. Visa & MC accepted. Ph: 523-3335 Email: wendylemus02@hotmail.com
The Purple Space Monkey Bar & Grill: Offering sandwiches, fresh salads, seafood and imported steaks, pastas, full dinners and homemade desserts. Draft beer and extensive cocktail list. Don’t be a stranger. Come say hi to the monkey : ) Call: 523-3169
North of Airstrip: Green Parrot Restaurant: On the beach at Maya Beach. Our chef changes the
menu daily and features a wide variety of local and international cuisine. We feature seafood and tropical dishes. For reservations call 523-2488. Email: greenparot@btl.net
Habanero Mexican Restaurant & Bar @ Robert’s Grove: Lagoon side Fiesta time! Casual and fun Habanero serves up Mexican food w/ a Belizean flair. Now open from 12 noon – 10 p.m. Dinner Pick-ups available 523-3565!
bedrooms, fold out sofa, kitchenette & bath on main floor. 2 bay leaf thatch cabanas w/ garden showers & private beach. Tel/FAX: 523-2488; E-mail: greenparrot@btl.net; Website: www.greenparrot-belize.com
Jaguar Lanes Bowling and Café: Casual Dining in cool AC, 2 big TVs, Pizza, Burgers, Pulled Pork, Crunchy Tacos, Nachos, Homemade Desserts, Daily Drink Specials, and more!!! Credit Cards accepted.
Miller’s Landing: Natural Belizean cabanas, lush tropical gardens, clean secluded beach, pool & thatch bar, P. 523-3010 or millersplacencia@yahoo.com
Quarterdeck Restaurant & Bar @ Laru Beya Resort: International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. Experience delicious meals, fabulous cocktails and fantastic service combined with spectacular ocean views. Breakfast served from 7 to 11 am. Lunch served from 12 to 2 pm. Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Dinner served from 6 to 9 pm. For reservations call 523-3476.
Laru Beya Resort: Paradise has an address... Luxurious beachfront accommodation with a top-rated restaurant on site. All bedrooms have A/C, ceiling fans, fridges, coffee & tea making facilities. Suites (1 to 3 bedrooms) have fully fitted kitchens. Ocean-facing infinity pool. Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort. Free use of Hobi-cat, sea kayaks and bicycles. Miniature golf course located on the landscaped grounds. Daily tours, snorkeling & diving trips and other excursions arranged. www.larubeya.com. info@larubeya.com. Tel: 523-3476 & Fax: 523-3483 Singing Sands Inn: Located on a beautiful stretch of Maya Beach featuring 6 private, thatched cabanas with own bath and patio as well as 2 garden view flats. Bonefish Grille full service restaurant and bar on-site serving breakfast, lunch and dinner along with daily specials and Happy Hour 4 – 6 pm. Gorgeous landscaping. Swimming pool with relaxing deck area. Free Wi-Fi available. Bicycles complimentary for guests. Kayaks, pedal boats and golf cart available for rent. Tel: 533-302. Email: info@singingsands. com Website: www.singingsands.com
Robert’s Grove Beach Resort: Placencia’s most complete resort. Beachfront
accommodations w/3 restaurants: Seaside, Habanero & Sweet Mama’s & French bakery & deli; 3 Pools, Conference Center, Tennis Court, Gym, FREE Wifi, Gift Shop, Full Service Dive Center, Marina, Gas and butane station. Kayaks, Windsurfers, Hobie Cats and bikes. Kayak, Paddle Boat and golf cart rentals and sales. www.robertsgrove.com, info@robertsgrove.com. For more info cal us @ 523-3565! At The Cayes
Ranguana Caye: Ranguana Caye is a 2 acre island located right on the reef with
3 rustic cabanas and a view that will blow your mind! Food, drinks, Moorings and all the Caribbean Breeze you can handle are available. Prime Diving and Fishing location. Come for a day, a night or more. Reservation day trips or lodging call 523-3565. Robert’s Caye: Robert’s Caye is just 10 miles from Placencia (1/2 hour by boat) a one acre island with 4 charming cabanas built partially over the water. Each cabana is outfitted w/ a king bed, full bathroom, hot and cold running showers, and a private terrace with hammocks. A small restaurant and bar, also built over the water, serves three meals daily. An deal setting for honeymooners and sportsmen alike, this “swept away” island paradise is surrounded by crystal clear water. The nearby flats are renowned for fishing as well. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are complimentary to is island guests. Come for a day, a night or more. Reservation for day trips or lodging call 523-3565.
Singing Sands Inn: Enjoy the delicious cuisine and ambiance of the Bonefish Grille. Our open-air, full service restaurant located on the beach, specializes in traditional Asian, as well as Italian and French influenced dishes. Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials as well as Happy Hour Menu. Open 7 days a week. For reservations or more information call 533-3022 or email info@singingsands.com. Seaside Restaurant @ Robert’s Grove: Romantic Fine Dining with a world
class menu and wine cellar. One of Belize’s most consistent restaurants quoted Fodor’s 2010 edition. The Seaside Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Dinner Pick-ups available 523-3565!
Sweet Mama’s @ Robert’s Grove: Belizean restaurant serving breakfast ($8), lunch ($10) and dinner ($12). Open Monday - Sunday, 7 AM to 8 PM. Tarpon Caye Belize’s Pesky Permit Restaurant: Enjoy generous portions of fresh seafood including lobster, conch, shrimp or freshly caught fish. Local Belizean meals are also on the menu. Whipray Caye Lodge: See accommodation for info about our restaurant and bar.
CHEERS - Peninsula Bars Barefoot Bar: Open every day 11:30 am - midnight! Located on the Beach - the party never stops! Live music Thurs - Sun nights. Happy hour, lunch hour beer specials, largest drink menu around, full moon parties & more! Creative lunch/dinner specials. Barefoot Bar is all about Stiff Drinks - Tasty Food - Good Times! Tel: 523-3515. Follow us on Facebook! J-Byrd’s: Local Bar by the Seaside docks. Open daily from 10am to 12pm. And live music every Friday’s. Tel :523-3412
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PLACENCIA PENINSULA GUIDE
PAID LISTINGS. TO ADVERTISE CALL 523-4045 OR E-MAIL INFO@PLACENCIA.COM
Tarpon Caye Belize’s Iguana Rock Bar: Out on a tour on the waters? Wish you could simply stop somewhere and take a break and enjoy an ice cold tropical drink? Then stop by at our cozy thatched bar that overlooks the beautiful Caribbean Sea.
COFFEE Above Grounds Coffee: Tel: 634 3212. Shaded Cool Spot.
Supporting Small Independent Producers. Shade Grown Organic Guatemalan Coffees & Tea (Hot or Iced) Fresh Juices, Bagels, Banana Bread, Bulk Coffee. High speed Wi-Fi. Main Road, Past football field, South end of the Village. Open Daily, 7am- 4pm, Monday thru Saturday. Sundays, 8am-Noon.
SHOPPING ArtnSoul Gallery: On the sidewalk near the new pier. Best Belizean art featuring over 40 artists. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. P. 503-3088. Goss Chocolate: Goss Chocolate and cocoa powder made and sold only in Belize. 100% organically grown Belizean cacao, Belizean cane sugar, whole vanilla bean. Sold in grocery stores, gift shops, hotels and restaurants on the Peninsula and throughout Belize. Sorry, no factory tours! P. 523-3544, www.Goss-Chocolate.com, BTL 2013 Yellow Pages, Facebook winner 2013 World Chocolate Awards for Goss White with Vanilla Bean.
Green Parrot Gift Shop: The in-place to shop on the Peninsula. Featuring a wide variety of Belizean, Guatemalan, & Central American crafts. Wallen’s Market: Serving Placencia with fresh produce, dry goods, & specialty items. Wholesale/retail. Tel: 523-3128; Hardware Tel: 503-3316 or 523-3523; Pharmacy Tel. 523-3346. email wallensmarket@yahoo.com Serving the Peninsula for over 25 years!! Located across from the sport field.
TOUR PROVIDERS: Avadon Divers: Dive into Belize w/ our full service PADI Dive Centre in Placencia, just south of the airstrip. We have 5-Star all-inclusive packages for dive & snorkel trips that include new SCUBAPRO equipment. Our spacious 46’ Newton Dive Special Boat features a restroom & fresh water shower. Our Instructors teach scuba for kids from ages 8 to 80 ☺, advanced courses & dive pro levels. We also offer jungle, cave & Mayan ruin adventure tours. E-mail: anne-marie@avadondiversbelize.com. Website: www.avadondiversbelize.com Call us at 503- 3577 or 523-3577. Robert’s Grove Dive Center: Feeling adventurous?? Our PADI 5 star Dive Center offers daily snorkeling, diving and certification courses and boasts some of the tastiest lunches, best tour guides in the country, and ‘The Dorado’ our 48 ft. Pro Dive Boat! Nitrox and specialty Dive Courses available. Inland, Fishing, private charters, Whale Shark, Manatee, Monkey River and Inland tours also on the Tour Menu for more info call 523-3565! Singing Sands Inn: Offers inshore or offshore fishing excursions right off of our dock! Join us on our 31’ Cape Horn for a fantastic day of angling action. We can arrange any tour whether inland or water including Monkey River, Mayan Ruins, snorkelling, diving, and much more. Call 533-3022 or email info@singingsands.com
GETTING AROUND: Car Rental of Placencia: 1 mile north of the Placencia Airstrip. Largest car rental
on the Peninsula. SUVs and Golf Carts. Call: 523-3284 or 625-9573 or 662-7611. A drop location for donations for the Placencia Humane Society.
Sandhill Ltd.: Sales and rentals of kayaks, pedal boats, golf carts. Rentals by hour, daily or weekly. Telephone 523-3061 or 533-4017 for more information. Email info@silbelize.com. Website www.silbelize.com Singing Sands Inn: Rentals of reliable golf carts, bicycles, kayaks (including clear bottom), two person catamarans, snorkel gear and pedal boats by the hour, half day, full day or weekly. Located in Maya beach. Call 533-3022 or email info@singingsands. com.
SPA & MASSAGE: Sea Spa @ Robert’s Grove: Now offering Thai Massage, our Sea Spa is manned
by professional therapists each w/ their own unique style. Treatments include; Several massage styles, Facials, Body Wraps, Body Scrubs/Polish, Reiki Energy, Sunburn Special, Coconut Hair Rinse and of course Manis & Pedis for Barefoot perfect feet! All treatments offered in our newly appointed oceanfront spa, at the end of our 250 ft pier or in a rooftop setting w/ panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea! For more info call 523-3565!
Siripohn’s Thai Massage: Therapist from Thailand - Thai Massage, Essential Oil, Swedish, Jet Lag, Back & Shoulders, Foot Massage, Body Treatments, & Facial Treatments. Open 10 am to 6 pm. Call 620-8718 or 600-0375, email: jenjira01@yahoo. com - Kob Khun Ka.
WEDDING PLANNING: Robert’s Grove Beach Resort: Located on the Placencia Peninsula, a romantic off-the-beaten-path destination on the southern coast. Robert’s Grove is an intimate fivestar resort that is ideal for Belize Beach Weddings, whether you want private ceremony for just you and your partner or if you want to bring family and friends. Contact our wedding planner Ms. Lea Itzab: lea@robertsgrove.com or call us at 523-3565
COMMUNITY LISTINGS: Churches: St. John’s Memorial: Placencia Anglican (Episcopal) Church: Sunday services at 8:00 a.m. .
Ministries of the Son of God Church, Seine Bight Village: Wednesday Bible Studies -6:30 pm, Thursday Youth Choir Practice - 6:30 pm, Friday Youth Night - 6:00 pm, Saturday Adult Choir Practice - 6:30 pm, Sunday Service - 8:30 am & Sunday Night Service - 6:30 pm. Reverend Don Palmer. Phone 523-3301 or email cbelize@btl.net
Splash Dive Center: Selected Tour Operator of the Year by the Belize Tourism Board. Fully equipped scuba retail store and 5 Star PADI Dive Center. Our 5 dive boats visit several dive and snorkel destinations daily. We teach scuba diving from beginner to pro level. Our air conditioned vans and licensed guides will take you to Maya sites, Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve, ziplining, cave or river tubing, or the Monkey River jungle. Call 523-3080/3058 or e-mail Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com. See www. splashbelize.com for more info.
Calvary Chapel of the Placencia Peninsula: Meeting in Seine Bight Village. Sunday Services: 10:30 A.M. and 6:30 P.M. (Sunday School provided). Wednesday: Men’s and Women’s Bible Study - 6:30 P.M. Friday: Youth Group - 5:30 P.M. Non denominational Church - Call Pastor Jim Mensie for more information: 523-3362
Tarpon Caye Belize: We offer professional day fishing tours, experience our unique
net. Located on Main Street & Bruk Pat in Placencia Office Supply.
Seine Bight Catholic Church: Services Sundays 8:00 a.m. Seine Bight Village. Lay ministers. Catholic (lay) - Mrs Dora. Williams Tel# 523 3527 or 523 3564 Worship Center: Bible Study – Wednesday 7:00 p.m. – until. Services: Sunday 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sunday School: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Non Denominational - Pst. Moore - Tel# 523 3333
SERVICES
Transport Services:
Tony’s Gym/Belize Fit: We have a small CrossFit Gym. By appointment only.
De Express Boat: P. 626-8835. Departs Placencia Shell Dock- 9:30 a.m. Arrives Big
tours such as our Caribbean Splash Day Tour and Island Breeze Weekends.
Trip N Travel: Saltwater & Jungle Adventures. P. 523-3205 Email: lgodfrey@btl.
www.belizefit.com Phone: 631-7427
Placencia Office Supply: INTERNET, Printing, Stationary, SMART – GimmeDalla, Sales, Collections. P. 523-3205 or plaofficesupply@gmail.com Muzamanzie Photography: Contact us for wedding photographs, portraits, web & brochure images. P. 523-3563 or 603-5143 email: muzamanzie@yahoo.com
REAL ESTATE: CPC Real Estate Solutions: Your trusted real estate broker in Belize. We have over 20 years experience helping clients with their real estate transactions and take pride in assisting you with your property purchase. Please visit our office next to Tuttifrutti or call us at 672-9000 or visit: www.belizeproperty.com Sandhill Ltd.: Property and vacation rental management services customized to fit homeowners requirements. Rental homes available for short and long term lease. Telephone 523-3061 or 533-4017 for more information. Email info@silbelize.com. Website www.silbelize.com
Seventh Day Adventists: Services Fridays at sunset; Saturdays 9:00 a.m. Lay ministers. U. Torres - Tel# 503 2270
Creek 10 a.m. Departs - 11:00 am. Arrives Puerto Cortez, Honduras, 2 pm. at Laguna. Return trip – Monday: Departs Puerto Cortez, Honduras 10 am. Arrives Big Creek 12 noon. Departs - 1:30 p.m. Arrives Placencia 2 pm. Tel: 523-4045. Tickets available at the Placencia Tourism Center for BZ$120.
Hokey Pokey Boat: P. 523-2376. Placencia (MnM Dock) → Independence/Mango Creek: 6:45a.m, 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m, 5 p.m and 6 p.m. (except on Sundays). Independence/Mango Creek → Placencia: 6:30 a.m., 7:30a.m., 8a.m., 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:30 p.m, & 4:30 p.m.
Ritchie’s Bus: 523-3806. Regular Bus: Placencia → Dangriga: Monday thru Saturday: 6 a.m.; 7 a.m.; 12:45 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. Sundays: 7 a .m.; 2:30 p.m. Dangriga → Placencia : Monday thru Saturday: 11 a.m.; 2 p.m.; 4:30 p.m.; 6 p.m. Sundays: 11 a.m.; 6 p.m. Express Bus: Placencia—> Belmopan —> Belize City: Monday thru Saturday: 6:15 a.m. Express Bus: Belize City—> Belmopan —> Placencia: Monday thru Saturday: 3:30 p.m,Visit: www.ritchiesbusservice.com for more info! ADO: Leaves from Belize City at 7:30 p.m. to Tulum, Playa Del Carmen and Cancun, Mexico. Tickets must be purchased at bus terminal in Belize City. Tropic Air: P. 523-3410 Maya Island Air: P. 523-3472
The Placencia Breeze ǁ February 2014 ǁ Page 31
PLACENCIA PENINSULA GUIDE
PAID LISTINGS. TO ADVERTISE CALL 523-4045 OR E-MAIL INFO@PLACENCIA.COM
Taxis/Delivery Services:
Mr. Clark: 621-1031 Noel: 600-6047 Christon: 629-4307 Walter: 622-3194 Bailey: 636-7863 Keylone: 668-9395 Mr. Linarez: 607-2518 Liria: 623-4836 Choko: 632-0980 Rain or Shine Delivery: 666-1555 Brittney Gibson Delivery: 651-8393
Addiction Support: ALCOHOLIC ANOYMOUS/ Placencia Rule 62 Group:
670-1255, 610-1441, 628-1143; 9:30 a.m. Sundays, Open Meeting at The Placencia Health Center.
PLACENCIA NAR-ANON/Narcotics Anon Family Groups:
For those affected by someone else’s addiction. Placencia Health Ctr. Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
Community Numbers:
Placencia Village Council: 523-3396 Placencia Water Board: 523-4036 Placencia Sanitation: 523-3273 Placencia Post Office: 523-3104 Seine Bight Village Council: 523-3660 Seine Bight Water Board: 523-3554 U.S. Warden, Stann Creek Rural: Deborah Coston, 624-6483
HEALTH EMERGENCIES: Seine Bight Medical Center: 523-3328 Independence Med. Center: 523-2167
Placencia Tourism Police: 503-3181
POLICE: Placencia Police Station: 503-3142
EMERGENCY TIP!
Seine Bight Police Station: 503-3148 Maya Beach Police Station: 634-7051
FIRE EMERGENCIES: 626-0667
Keep gasoline handy for your motor vehicle if you need to head out to the Southern Dangriga Hospital. It can save a life in the middle of the night when local gas stations are closed and no one can assist you!
HEALTH EMERGENCIES: Belize Emergency Response Team: 223-3292 Placencia Medical Center: 503-3326
Placencia Sailing Club Seeking Sponsorship By Jonnell Augustine Staff Reporter info@placencia.com
For many of us sailing is as foreign as rocket science. Hopping on a bicycle or into our motor vehicle might seem far more likely than managing the sails of a water vessel. But to these young kids of the Placencia Optimist Sailing Club, sailing is a passion, even an obsession for some, and more importantly, it’s actually a part of their heritage as descendants of the seafarers who first settled on the Placencia Peninsula. The Placencia Optimist Sailing Club (POSC) was established in Placencia Village on May 6, 2012 and is currently headed by Mr. Alvin Cabral. Starting out at six strong the club now boasts 22 sailors, all of whom are within the ages of eight to 15. The POSC’s very own Carlos Villatoro recently brought home the medal for “2nd Best Sailor” of 2013 in the country of Belize from the National Championship Regatta where the Placencia Optimist Sailing Club competed against other sailing clubs from across Belize. Villatoro has now turned 15 years old, which is the limit for competing in Optimist races. But sailing is not over for the medal winner. He is now eligible to operate the lazer – a bigger boat for more mature sailors. According to club leader, Maria Cabral, this will only be possible once sponsored funding comes through for Villatoro. The Placencia Optimist Sailing Club is also seeking assistance for their 2nd annual regatta which will be held on May 24 and 25 in Placencia Village. “What we need is more money and sponsors!” said Mrs. Cabral with a nervous laugh, “I do not do this for the money. I
enjoy watching the kids and taking them to the different tournaments. My hope is to one day see one of my own sailors in the Olympics. But I cannot do it alone.” “The kids need a lot of things. Uniforms, sponsorship… We spend $8,000 alone on the up keep of our optimists (sailboats).” Cabral and her team of supervise the sailors during their practice every Saturday and Sunday in front of Crow’s Nest Restaurant. There is more opportunity ahead for the sailors, but again, cost is a factor. POSC is hoping to head to the Copa Riviera in Quintana Roo, Mexico in July of this year to compete against other international sailing clubs. They have been circulating requests for donations on various social media pages. Regattas are usually held six to eight times per year. The dates for the next scheduled Regattas are as follows: • Corozal Bay: Feb. 8-9, 2014 • Buttonwood Bay: March 8, 2014 • Baron Bliss Harbour Regatta: March 9, 2014 • Placencia Regatta: May 24-25, 2014 Mrs. Cabral, on behalf of the Placencia Optimist Sailing Club, is asking for assistance in any way to make these trips possible. “We are in need of sponsors, volunteers, monetary assistance in buying uniforms and upkeeping of the boats ... Anything that can be given will be greatly appreciated and used.” For more information on how you can assist the Placencia Optimist Sailing Club, contact Maria Cabral at South Waters Resort in Placencia Village at phone number: 6207320. ▪
Teams Yoli’s Pigs and Tropic Air compete in the Rotary Club’s Winter Beach Olympics. More pictures and results from all the crazy fun coming up in our March issue! (MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY)
Placencia Hotels Make TripAdvisor 2014 Traveler’s Choice Top 10 Lists; Other Categories Unannounced Four Placencia Peninsula accommodations are relishing their recent wins in the 2014 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards.Congratulations to the following Placencia BTIA members: • Belizean Nirvana; placed 4th among Top 10 Best B&Bs and Inns in Belize • Chabil Mar Belize Resort; placed 6th among Top 10 Small Hotels in Belize • Robert’s Grove; placed 9th among Top 10 Hotels in Belize
• Miller’s Landing, placed 10th among Top 10 Bargain Hotels in Belize TripAdvisor has not yet released 2014 winners for the following categories: • all-inclusive resorts • destinations • destinations on the rise • beaches • islands • attractions and • restaurants. ▪
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