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Established 1999
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A FREE Placencia BTIA Membership Publication
Whale Sharks Make Annual Tour By JOLIE POLLARD
Every year they swim across the oceans of the world and for the longest time in the memory of the eldest fishermen living in Placencia, they never fail to make a visit to the waters of Belize. Seventy-three-year-old Carlton “Jak” Young said he has always known the majestic creature as “Sapodilla Tom,” a name he said was bestowed by a fisherman named Thomas when the gigantic fish was first spotted near the Sapodilla Cayes located 40 miles
east of Punta Gorda Town, or so legend has it. Young said that for a long time the creatures remained much of a mystery until scientists began learning more about their migration patterns, biology and reasons for their annual Belize vacation.
According to celebrated marine conservationist and San Pedro-based shark expert, Dr. Rachel Graham, Belize has been lucky to be one of only nine places in the continued on page 19
17th Annual
Placencia Lobsterfest
June 19, 20 & 21, 2015 (See page 7 for more on Lobsterfest and other food festivals in the south.)
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Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek, Belize
Musicians Pay Tribute to Aidan Young By JOLIE POLLARD
On the evening of May 12, most of the Peninsula's musicians led a rare jam session at J-Byrd's Bar located at the southern end of the Peninsula by the muncipal pier. The bar was formerly the hottest entertainment spot in the area, and the evening brought back a sense of nostalgia for many.
The event was organized by Carlton "Patu" Young, Jr. in honor of his son, 10-year-old Aidan Young, who has been battling cancer for the greater part of his life. Patu, a longtime local musician, dive instructor and boat captain, said he rallied fellow musicians to come out and play some live music for his son before the young trooper reChampion of the third annual Placencia Sailing Club National Sailing Regatta Trent Hardwick of turned to his home of the Belize Sea Scouts conquers the choppy waves of the Placencia cove during day one of the in Pennsylvania Commonwealth Day weekend event held May 23-24. (MARION CARR/Muzamanazie Photography) where he is receiv-
Carlton "Patu" Young, Jr. joins his sons Aidan and Damien for a photo next to J-Byrd's Bar where the music was jamming. (JOLIE POLLARD)
ing hospice care. "Aidan loves music and Placencia," said Patu, who left the village to travel abroad with his son and wife Julie on May 16. When asked how he was enjoying his evening out at J-Byrd's, Aidan who had just been given a pain killer pill by his mother, and not feeling his best, cracked a smile and gave two thumbs up. ▪
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 2
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INSIDE May 2015 Page 5: Graphic Designer and Belize Outdoor Enthusiast Brings May 2015 Flag to Life Page 6: Editoral: Swim! Forest! Swim! Page 7: Food Festival Blowout! Page 8: A Poem for Bob the Poet Page 9: Photographing Easter in Placencia Page 11: Hand Wash Hand at PHS Furball Page 11: Take the Placencia Humane Society Quiz!
Page 13: Turtle Inn Staff Takes on Victoria Peak with Peak Performance & Physique Page 14: Peninsula Citizens Stands in Solidarity with Global Citizens Against Offshore Oil Drilling Page 21: Fragments of Hope Celebrates Eight Years at Coral Mixer Page 23: Plea for Basketball Court in Seine Bight Answered Page 25: Izak Stands Tall After Spelling Bee District Finals
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 3 Page 25: Student of the Month Page 27: Placencia Humane Society Launches Restaurant Run Page 27: Placencia Sailing Club Hosts Third Annual Regatta
Your copy of the Placencia Breeze is FREE because of our advertisers! For advertising rates, call 523-4045 or e-mail accounts@placencia.com.
PENINSULA HAPPENINGS FESTIVALS • LOCAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINTMENT • GAMES • FOOD/DRINK
Courtesy of the Placencia BTIA
WHEN LOCATION EVENT th Godfrey Family and Tipsy Tuna 17 ANNUAL PLACENCIA LOBSTERFEST (Look out for ALL the details coming up in our exclusive June FRI-SAT-SUN Lobsterfest Breeze edition! Also visit www.placencialobsterfest.com!) JUNE 19-20-21 properties (Placencia) Pickled Parrot (Placencia) MURDER MYSTERY MONDAY! (Last Monday of every month.) Starts at 6 p.m. P. 636-7068 MONDAYS
TUESDAYS
Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
MARTINI MONDAY! Martini specials and live music with Karl Lovell, 6-10 p.m.! P. 523-3089
Yoli’s Bar (Placencia) Barefoot Bar
Rotary Club of Placencia meets at 12:30 p.m. P. 625-2763. TRAVELLERS TUESDAY! Select Travellers Rum JUST $3. $1 off all other Travellers rums. 5 p.m. to midnight P. 523-3515 MOJITOS & MUSIC! Mojito specials all day and Live Caribbean style music with Tropical Vibes, 5-10 p.m. P. 523-3089
Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
WEDNESDAYS
Barefoot Bar (Placencia)
THURSDAYS
Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Friends Near the Pier (Placencia) Pickled Parrot (Placencia)
DIRTY THURSDAY! 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tell a dirty joke and get the shot of the day for free! P. 523-3515 Horseshoe tournament and board games night 5:30 – 8 p.m. P. 667-4805
Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
TIPSY THURSDAY! Karaoke with Karl Lovell, FREE Jello Shots and Dancing in the Aquarium with DJ Swagg in our sports bar, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.! P. 523-3089
WET WEDNESDAY! Specials on featured beer & $1 off all other beers! Fun & Funk Jam Session at 5 p.m. Visiting Musicians Welcome P. 523-3515 Mariposa Restaurant & Beach Free Yahtzee dice game starts 4:30 p.m. P: 523-4474 Suites (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) WINGS WEDNESDAY! $1 Wings ALL DAY! Get ‘em Naked, Hot, Sweet-N-Spicy, Buffalo, Honey BBQ or Ginger Sesame! P. 523-3089. GARIFUNA DRUMMING 7-9 p.m. P. 523-3089
TRIVIA THURSDAY! 6 p.m. Prizes and free jello shots! P. 636-7068
FRIDAYS
Barefoot Bar (Placencia)
SATURDAYS
Barefoot Bar (Placencia) Barefoot Bar (Placencia)
Barefoot Horseshoe Tournament at 4 p.m. Cash + Bar Tab Prizes. P. 523-3515; Live Rock + Alternative + Reggae music, 5-9 p.m. P. 523-3515
Pickled Parrot (Placencia)
LIVE MUSIC! 6 p.m. Alternating performances by Hot Papaya and Open Mic guests. P. 636-7068
Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
Signature drink specials all day! Live Band, The Persuaders, playing great beach music 7 p.m. - midnight!
J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar (Placencia) Robert’s Grove (Seine Bight) Habanero’s Mexican Café and Bar (Seine Bight)
Karaoke 8 p.m. to midnight. P. 503-3351
BITTER ABOUT YOUR WEEK? $1 Local Bitters ALL DAY LONG! “They good fi dih back!” Live Caribbean Music at 5 pm. P. 523-3515 Mariposa Restaurant & Beach Prime Rib dinner w/ Yorkshire pudding, potates au us & steamed veg BZ$49. P: 523-4474 Suites (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) MARGARITA MADNESS! Margarita Specials all day! FREE Zumba Dance Party with Yoli, 7-9 p.m!
Poolside Beach BBQ Buffet, 7-9 p.m. Live entertainment. P. 523-3565 for dinner pickups. Paella Night. Complimentary glass of House Sangria for each diner. 6 to 9 p.m. Pick-ups available. P. 523-3565
SUNDAYS
Yoli’s Bar (Placencia) Barefoot Bar (Placencia)
EVERYDAY
Habanero’s Mexican Café & Bar (Seine Bight) Robert’s Grove (Seine Bight)
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
Quarter Deck Restaurant at Laru Beya Resort (Seine Bight) Mariposa Restaurant & Beach Suites (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)
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
4 p.m. Placencia’s Famous Ring Game. P. 625-2763. It’s SWEET PAIN Baby!!!!!! Live music w/ Belize’s # 1 Punta band Sweet Pain noon – 6 pm. Beach BBQ. P. 523-3515 Mariposa Restaurant & Beach Card games start 2PM. Open to everyone. P: 523-4474 Suites (Placencia) Tipsy Tuna (Placencia) SEASIDE SUNDAY!! DJ & Specials on all Buckets of Beers all day!! Belize Ocean Club Sunday Pool Parties! Party DJ, great food and drinks! (Maya Beach)
Barefoot Bar (Placencia)
15% discounts for full or P/T Belizean residents + buy a meal & swim in our pool or play horseshoes at our new regulation pit. BEST Happy Hour Specials, 5-7 pm! Check out our daily featured drink and featured shot! Rush Hour 10-11 pm with 2 for 1 local rum! Kitchen is now open until 11:30 p.m! Happy Hour 5-6 p.m. $2 OFF Local Rum Drinks including Coladas and Daiquiris. P. 523-3515
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 4
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 5
THANK YOU FOR PICKING UP THE PLACENCIA BREEZE! 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, Maya Island Air, 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. EDITOR IN CHIEF: Jolie Pollard, pollard.jolie@gmail.com VOLUNTEER PHOTOGRAPHERS: Marion and Ed Carr of Muzamanzie Photography muzamanzie@gmail.com --ADVERTISING OFFICERS: Cindy Weller, director@placencia.com and Jonnell Augustine, accounts@placencia.com PRINTER: Norman’s Printing, Belize City, Belize The Placencia Breeze The Placencia Tourism Center, Placencia Village, Stann Creek, Belize. Phone: 523- 4045 --PLACENCIA BTIA BOARD: Evan Hall, Chairman Steve Christensen, Vice Chairman Salva Zabaneh, Councilor Kristine Small, Councilor Cleeve Westby, Councilor Bill Wohl, Councilor & Jodie Yearwood, Councilor
Graphic Designer and Belize Outdoor Enthusiast Brings May 2015 Flag to Life By JOLIE POLLARD Breeze Editor
I have been very pleased with the outpour of support we have received from talented artists in response to recent Breeze Flag design requests. It’s a small operation here at the paper. I do design, layout and most of the articles; Cindy Weller and Jonnell Augustine at the Placencia BTIA office takes care of advertisers and our Reeve Boles, who grew up appreciating the wildlife, ancient members, and the histories and natural landscapes of Belize, is a Freelance ever generous Mar- Global Telecommuting Graphic Designer living in New ion Carr contributes Mexico. most of the photographs. However, of artwork starting with Greta Leshaving no graphic design artist on our team, this monthly contribution continued on page 6
Where in the World is The Placencia Breeze?
Who knew the Placencia Breeze would be loving all that cold weather?! We received even more photos from snow dwellers up north! Above: Shortly after returning home from a trip to Belize, Scott Richardson reads the Placencia Breeze on his deck at his home in Saratoga Springs, Utah, USA. (Photo by Jake Richardson.) Left: Russ Nowick reads the Breeze on an outdoor deck in Gores Landing, Rice Lake, Ontario, Canada after a four-month adventure spent in Hopkins and Placencia. "We took these pictures because we miss it, but we're coming back in November," Russ told us. (Photo by Mary-Anne Nowick)
Amanda Harris reads the April Breeze at Harrison Lake, British Columbia, Canada.
Funny Placencia Peninsula Quote of the Month: "Placencia used to be a sleepy little fishing village and now it's just a drunken, fishy village." ― Harry Eiley †
Like us on Facebook brata \braatah\ Kriol (Creole) for Breeze BRATA! noun : something a little extra Follow our Facebook page for Breeze extras! Check out fun videos and pictures from the Peninsula, as well as previews of our upcoming editions! ▪
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 6
Introducing Designer Behind the May Breeze 2015 Flag continued from page 5 lie’s candy cane Breeze in December has really zinged up our paper! Reeve Boles is an old friend I knew from school connections in Belize City and has been recognized in local art circles for a long time for his incredible talent, as well as for his passion for ecology. Today Reeve resides in New Mexico, United States where he works in the digital art world as a “Freelance Global Telecommuting Graphic Designer,” which he explains as arranging and trading pixels for payment. (We’ll leave our tech readers to appreciate that one.) The self-trained artist has also been focusing his time on creating 3D art and 3D animation. Well aware of Reeve’s love of Belize’s natural wonders and his artistic abilities, I knew he was the perfect candidate for designing our whale shark flag to rec-
ognize the attraction that draws many visitors to the Peninsula from April to June. Having spent half of his life in Belize and raised by an eco-oriented father, Reeve says he was taught a special respect for the natural world. He is an experienced scuba diver and knows how to handle groups of adventurers through the wilderness too. Reeve is no stranger to Placencia having worked in the local tourism scene for some time with Seakunga where he assisted them with promotional art and web design.
past times, which tends to be far more complex than we would like to admit in our computer age. The academic approach is tedious, but it is slowly unlocking hints of a massive wealth of forgotten knowledge that may be recovered.” Professionally, Reeve has focused on logo design and says that he has found a direct correlation to ancient art and archetypal symbols. “This understanding gives me a certain edge in the graphic design field, especially in logo design."
The artist continues to receive excellent client feedback through Elance. His dreams for the future include working with a design team in Belize to create the country’s first video game (He has already developed characters, plot lines and other elements, which he says could also develop into a web comic.) and setting up a website that offers an extenReeve said that “ancient art sive gallery, as well as free studies offered a window models, tutorials and more into the cultural mindset of to other graphic designers.▪
Reeve says he finds little value in degrees and believes his artwork should speak for itself, but I think it’s worth mentioning that he started as an art major in college, but ended up with with a major/minor in Archaeology/Anthropology due to an “intrinsic desire to explore deep history and reveal hidden things.”
EDITORIAL
Swim! Forest! Swim! our bodies like pretzels in yoga class, but we won’t By Jolie Pollard swim. Since this fitness maniac (or perhaps we Breeze Editor should call him a relentpollard.jolie@ gmail.com less advocate for active bodies) named Rodolfo I think for a lot of people Sáenz de Ugarte came up on the Placencia Peninsula, with the brilliant idea to the sea has been a place to organize group swims on By Jolie work. It’s where we takePollard the Peninsula, some of out our tourists for scuba Breeze Editorus have been challenging diving, snorkeling, sport ourselves to take on this pollard.jolie@ gmail.com fishing or for a leisurely alternative form of exerkayaking tour. It’s where cise. I’ve completed four the fishermen pull in the long (or longish if you catch for the restaurants, will), distance swims with harvest seaweed, dive for Rodolfo and friends, and I conch and lobster, spear the have to say, my body has predatory lionfish and even been responding well to it. go hunting for sea cucum- I feel great! bers to supply a demand in China. For recreational My physical therapist purposes, we may take a in Belize City would be quick dip, but for sport, proud. During a visit to her the vast sea bordering our clinic a couple years ago in 16-mile-long Peninsula is Belize City when she had the unlikeliest place to find determined that my body anyone. had pretty much become We’ll play football, basketball, go running, walking, cycling, hit the gym, fold
a train wreck following a brief and unsuccessful continued on page 10
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FOOD FESTIVAL
BLOWOUT! By JOLIE POLLARD Breeze Editor
We certainly have our fill of gastronomic euphoria ahead of us in Southern Belize starting this month with the Chocolate Festival and Mango Festival in May, the Placencia Lobsterfest in June and the first ever Banana & Shrimp Festival in July! Chocolate Festival of Belize, Toledo May 22-23-24, 2015 The ninth annual Chocolate Festival of Belize kicks off with the Wine and Chocolate Gala on the Friday night of May 22 from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The event is being held for the second year at Garbutt’s gorgeous marina on Joe Taylor Creek in Punta Gorda (PG) Town. Tickets must be purchased in advance and for those on
the Placencia Peninsula, you can get yours for just BZ$50 at the Placencia Tourism Center. While surrounded by both the lagoon and the ocean, this night brings you nothing but good times and new friends! Enjoy live music from the Caribbean Roots Band who will be traveling to PG all the way from Corozal, as well as an array of delectable hors d’oeuvres including deep fried lion fish and shrimp and of course, – chocolate from Belize-based chocolatiers!
five main ethnic groups: Kriol, Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo and East Indian. Each area displays art, food and music from their respective cultures. It is like passing from a Mayan village to a Garifuna village in just a few steps. Expect to find plenty of barbecue stalls along Front Street, and tour operators selling chocolate making packages, kayaking trips and chocolate farm tours. A street stage will treat guests to live music all day long with a few breaks for presentions by local dance Then starting on Saturday, groups. If you have children May 23 is the Taste of To- in tow, you will definitely ledo Street Fair held on want to stop by the Cacao for Front Street, Punta Gorda Kids tent located at the PG town, between the UNO fuel Methodist School grounds. station and the PG public library. Restricted only to If you're a fan of cocktails, pedestrians, the street fair you won't want to miss the features cultural displays and bartending competition startareas showcasing Toledo's ing at 4:30 p.m. on the stage.
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 7
Chocolate Festival of belize Toledo, May 22-23-24 hopkins mango festival may 30 placencia lobsterfest june 19-20-21 Independence Village banana & Shrimp fest july (dates to be announced) Competitors are required to use local chocolate, cacao or chocolate stout in their concoction. Final activities for the Chocolate Festival take place on Sunday at the shaded campus of Julian Cho Technical High School starting at 10 a.m. and wrapping up at 4 p.m.. If it rains, no worries! Watch live performances inside the school's auditorium by Mayan harp groups, Garifuna drummers, as well as dances by the Baaktun 13
group from Maya Centre in Stann Creek. There will be a range of traditional Mayan foods and drinks on sale prepared with cacao and local spices. Local crafts such as hammocks, jipijapa baskets and slate and calabash carvings will be on sale too, and visitors will have the chance to try their own hand at craft making! The new location provides plenty of parking space and is conveniently locontinued on page 8
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 8
FOOD FESTIVAL A Poem for Bob the Poet
BLOWOUT! W continued from page 5
cated along the Southern Highway. Keep in mind that the Monday after the Chocolate Festival is Commonwealth Day, so the South will be very quiet as people recover from their chocolate hangover during the public and bank holiday.
For more information on the Chocolate Festival of Belize, contact Toledo BTIA Information Officer Stephanie Parham at 722-2531. Hopkins Mango Festival May 30, 2015 The Hopkins Chapter of BTIA in conjunction with the Hopkins Village Council have been busy preparing for this year's Hopkins Mango Festival taking place on Saturday, May 30. The one-day festival will kick off in the coastal village at 10 a.m. at the Hopkins Village Center. In addition to delicious mangos, one reason alone to attend this event is to immerse yourself into a two-hour concert by the Garifuna Collective as they kick off their U.S. tour. Other attractions inside the Hopkins Village Center will include other cultural performances, children and adult games and raffle drawings every half hour. Tickets are only BZ$5 each and prizes run the gamut from mobile phones to bicycles and a grand prize of an all-expenses paid Hopkins vacation inluding three nights at a Hopkins hotel, domestic airfare and ground transport from anywhere in Belize, meals and three tours unique to the Hopkins area. This grand prize is a big deal, and the drawing will even be aired live on the nationally broadcast radio station -- Love FM.
Placencia's old school band of mad talent, The Persuaders, the popular Gilharry 7 Band slated to perform on Saturday night, the award winning Benque Viejo Marching Band leading a parade on Main Street in Placencia Village on Saturday morning and a performance later on the beach during the afternoon. Back by popular demand, Ozzy the Clown will be around to bring smiles to the faces of the young and the young at heart. The irrepressible showman Emmeth Young along with the Talla Walla Band are hoping to gather a group of hip shakers under the main tent, and resident musician Frank Tate and the Tropical Vibes will be keep the positive vibes flowing all weekend long.
The Placencia BTIA is reaching out for major sponsors to fund this dynamic entertainment portion of the event. Major sponsorship categories are: Bronze: BZ$1,000 Silver: BZ$2,000 Gold: BZ$3,000 Platinum: BZ$4,000 Diamond: $5,000 The logos of the top 10 sponsors will be featured on all Placencia Lobsterfest promotional items including posters, flyers, newspaper ads, radio and television ads, social media promotions and event banners. To pledge your sponsorship, contact the Placencia BTIA office at 523-4045 or director@placencia. com or accounts@placencia.com. More details on the Placencia Lobsterfest including updates on games, entertainment, raffle prizes, t-shirts, food stalls and more will be coming up in our special Pre-Lobsterfest Edition of the Placencia Breeze in June!
If you are interested in renting a booth space at the Mangofest, Independence Village contact Nisha Lewis at Coconut Banana and Shrimp Festival Row at 670-3000. Booth spaces are July (Dates to be announced.) available for BZ$25.
Very little is known about the planning of this event except that it's to be held this June, but even without the details, we're excited. Banana Preparations are underway for a and shrimp in one weekend? Celespectacular 17th Annual Lobsterfest brating two of the largest industries on June 19, 20, & 21 ― a joint venin Southern Belize? ture between the Placencia Village Council and Placencia BTIA. Imagine the culinary possibilities! Yum! We're keeping our eyes on Visitors can expect the highly anticthis one! ▪ ipated A-list of performers including Placencia Lobsterfest June 19-20-21, 2015
hen you get to Placencia, and go about and roam You will find a man named Bob Who calls this place his Home He is a self proclaimed Gambler, Pirate and Poet who lives by the sea You may find him at the Pickled Parrot or propped up against a palm tree You may think of him as a vagabond as you first encounter him But give him a smile and he will return it with a grin Now listen closely and you will here Stories of his life and it will all come clear His poetry will make your day and you may say, it has enhanced your stay We have come to Love Bob and the stories that he shares And can't wait to come back Another day. Bob we Love You Don and Terry Michigan
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 9
Photographing Easter in Placencia By MARION CARR
Veteran Breeze Photographer/ Muzamanzie Photography muzamanzie@gmail.com
The first photo in the top row is of one of the six sailboats competing in the fun eighth annual Placencia Caye Yacht Club's Easter Notta-Regat-
ta held on Easter Sunday. Weather conditions made this one very challenging! Sunday started out hot and sunny and by midday, many
people had already headed to the beach or the pier for a jump and swim into the sea. There were also family get-togethers in peoples' yards, and traffic was definitely heavy by 1 p.m. with few parking spaces left. Later dark rain clouds could be seen on the horizon ― rain is something rare to occur until early morning when all the parties are over, so it caught many people by surprise. Continued on page 10
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 10
EDITORIAL
(contd. from page 6)
Swim! Forest! Swim! stint in body building, a shoulder surgery after multiple shoulder dislocations and what appeared to be a herniated disc possibly brought on by too many hours sitting at a desk, as well as neglecting home therapy assignments, she scoffed at the knowledge that I had not been taking advantage of the sea in my backyard. “Buy a kickboard and get in that water,” she told me. I did buy a kickboard and splash around for a few days, for a couple weeks. It helped. I could feel my core strengthening and my heart rate increasing without any pain to my joints or back. You'd think that with such a painless cardio reward, I wouldn't stop, but apparently, I needed a group activity to finally take this physical therapist's assignment more seriously. N o w, t h e r e a re s o m e drawbacks to open water swimming here. First, the stingers. During my first swim with Rodolfo’s group, which started just across the road from his Maya Beach lagoon-side vacation rentals named the Swan Villas, and continued to the midway point towards False Caye, I became a fun play toy for jellyfish. Having been stung by jellyfish a million times since I was a child, it didn’t seem a like a big deal, but somehow this 29-year-old body doesn’t do so well with them. The fix? A psychedelic fullbody swim skin loaned to me by our Breeze photographer, Marion Carr. During the next swim, I looked like a monstrous parrot fish, but felt fearless and left the sea unscathed. Faaaaantastic! The other fix? Jellyfish repellant thanks to Sabrina Kelly of the Secret Garden Restaurant. Wearing just a one-piece swimsuit, I swam through a school of jellyfish like a champ. The Safe Sea protective lotion really does work against the jellies! However, it didn’t protect me from whatever little critters were clinging
on to a patch of sargassum I encountered just before reaching shore. Ouch! Itchy! The good news is, out of the seven or so people who have participated in these swims, I seem to have the worst luck with stingers. Don’t let it discourage you. There’s always vinegar and pee ... Ahem. Weather conditions almost deterred us from taking on our most recent swim, but we tackled the waves and strong winds and completed a 1.5 mile adventure from Tradewinds Cabanas to Fusion Beach. The prior week during the stretch from Tradewinds to De’Tatch, we were blessed with flat waters. It’s like turning up the incline on the treadmill or increasing your weights on a machine. Waves or no waves ― both will give a great workout. Of course, in the event of funky weather, it’s certainly more responsible to be with a group for your safety. (When we haven't swum along shore, we've been accompanied by a kayak.)
Easter Photos from our Breeze Readers!
Above: Children compete in watermelon eating contest at the Tipsy Tuna Easter Bash before adult activities begin. (GILLIAN ZABANEH) Right: Placencia beauties take selfie in the Easter
Photographing Easter in Placencia (contd. from page 9) For a number of years now at their annual Easter Bash, the Tipsy Tuna has hosted the Mr. Physique contest, which is sponsored by Habet & Habet and sanctioned by the Belize Body Building Federation. The crowed roared when In addition to flexing, men also hula hooped on the main stage (yup they sure tried) and the (cough, cough) toilet paper roll and plunger couple challenge was quite a scandal. Even though it was the first Easter Sunday rain in 14 years, it didn't dampen the beach party entertainment.▪
Our sea is free. There’s plenty of room, and it’s easily accessible from anywhere on this skinny stretch of paradise. I'm not advising you to abandon your other favorite exercises, but swimming is definitely worth a spot in your fitness schedule. According to the UKbased website, Swimming. org, even a gentle swim will burn over 200 calories in half an hour and a fast front crawl can burn as many calories as an 8mph run! Furthermore, pyschological studies have shown that swimming is also great for mental health with participants experiencing significantly less tension, depression and anger after exercising than before.
see what I'm talking about. David Ford from Maya Beach joined us for a swim not long after completing a heart surgery! Also, if you've got joint issues, swimming is great because it supports up to 90 percent of the body's weight in water, which makes it a great option for pregnant women too.
Even better, it's for everyone, no matter your age, weight or physical ability! You just need to take a look at us swimming one day, and you'll
If you'd like to join us for a group swim join the Placencia Sports group page for details on our swim location and time. Also, feel free to start your own
NOTICE
LOST BPA RECEIPT BOOK The Belize Port Authority hereby informs the public that on Friday, March 27, 2015, its receipt book bearing the serial numbers 056851-056900 was lost. The public is advised not to accept Belize Port Authority receipts carrying serial numbers 056860 thru 056900 for any monetary transaction and to report any attempted issuance of same to the nearest police station or to the Belize Port Authority's office at telephone no. 223-0714 or 223-0739.
swim group! ▪ (Please note that because swimming is not a popular activity on the Peninsula, swimming masks or goggles are difficult to find. Safe Sea jellyfish
protectant lotion is not sold here, and swim skins (also known as rash guards) are also hard to procure.) Thanks to all the kind people who helped me with out these things!
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 11
"Hand Wash Hand" at PHS Furball
PHS. Those establishments honored at the Furball were: By Patricia Celenza Tropic Air, Chabil Mar, Turtle Inn, Singing Sands, PHS Board Robert’s Grove, Barefoot Member placlibr@btl.net Bar, Pickled Parrot, ReMax 1st Choice, Doran’s “Hand Wash Hand” ― this Services and Secret lovely Kriol (Creole) ex- GardenRestaurant. pression translates into people taking care of each The 50/50 Raffle of $524.00 other, a mutual exchange was won by Allen Hujsak, of giving and receiving, or who redonated his half of put even more simply, the the pot back to PHS! Thank you, Allen! Golden Rule. Check out all these photos, and you will see for yourself that “hand wash hand” was the prevailing sentiment at Placencia Humane Society’s (PHS) Furball ― the organization’s biggest annual fundraiser, which was held on Saturday, April 25 at Barefoot Bar in Placencia Village. So many businesses up and down the Placencia Peninsula generously donated valuable prizes, and hundreds of PHS fans rocked their support for all the programs and services PHS provides our pets and their owners in our communities. Some raffle ticket buyers were luckier than others, but as one PHS supporter said, “I really don’t care if I win anything at all. I’m here for PHS!” Folks turned FUN into FUNDS!
By PATRICIA CELENZA
Ok, quiz time. What are the estimated annual total operating expenses for PHS? a. $9,247.00 b. $42,905.00 c. $36,287.00 d. $25,339.00 If you chose (b), pat yourself on the back, you’re a winner!
Hope you are sitting down and reading this because the list of donors, prizes, and winners is long!
As a PHS board member, I had it wrong, all wrong. I had seriously underestimated what it took to operate our non-profit organization.
Please patronize all these businesses whose owners gave from their hearts, and give a pat on the back to all your friends and neighbors who won all these wonderful prizes.
PHS prides itself on providing affordable professional vet services, donation-only (pay what you can) spays/neuters at monthly clinics to all pets on our Peninsula, and a monthly spay/neuter feral cat program that has dramatically reduced the stray cat population in our communities. All these valuable programs are backed up with a team of dedicated Board Members and volunteers that are on-call around the clock.
“Hand wash hand”—let’s keep it going! ▪
Furball 2015 Grand Raffle Winners Above Grounds, Two Pounds Coffee – Jim Hunter Anna’s Fashion, $30 Gift Certificate – Sabrina Kelly Art Affair Gallery, Necklace and Earring Set – Dave Artful Dodger/Itz’ana, Dog Bed – Gail Dusa
Artful Dodger/Itz’ana, Cat PHS owes much gratitude Bed – Althea to our community, and cer- Barefoot Bar, $50 Bar Tab – tain businesses received Gail Dusa the coveted “Cat’s Meow” Certificate of Appreciation BB Yoga Flow, One Month for outstanding and ongoing Free Classes – Beth Walton generosity over the years to continued on page 12
Take the Placencia Humane Society Quiz!
But hey, $42,905.00 per year? Clockwise: Pets participating in costume contest are pampered by PHS members. (DAVE TEN BROEK) Althea Schable accepts "Cat's Meow" certificate of appreciation on behalf of Chabil Mar. (MARY TOY). Annelise Hagan dresses up in a cat-themed costume at the event. Graham Berrie entertained visitors with live music. (DAVE TEN BROEK)
Let’s take a closer look at PHS’ expenses. The lion’s share of all expenses, $36.000.00, alcontinued on page 13
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 12
Furball 2015 Grand Raffle Winners continued from J.D.’s, Dinner for Two Wendy’s, Two Break(no beverages) – An- fasts ($35) – Felker page 11 nelise
Bliss Gift Shop, $50 Gift Certificate and Purse –Wynand Brenda’s, Two Jerk Chicken Lunches w/ Two Drinks and Dessert – Sabrina Kelly Chix, Four Chicken Dinners – Regan/J. Kantor Clive Sutherland, $35 Gift Certificate for Produce – D. Dennis Dawn’s Grill, Habanero Sauce Gift Pack – Sal and Donna De’Tatch, Lunch for Two – Annelise El Capitan, $25 Gift Certificate – Dave D. Fantoni’s, One Cake –Jim Hunter Flying Pig, $50 Bar Tab – Myro, c/o Barefoot Fragments of Hope, Snorkeling Trip for Two at Laughing Bird – Beau and Nora-Marie Friends Near Pier, Breakfast for Two with Drinks (non-alcoholic) – Dave ten Broek Goss Chocolate, Two Boxes of Chocolate – Wynand/Dorothy Young Green Parrot, Dinner for Two (w/out alcohol) or Lunch for Two (w/alcohol) – Alex Greg de la Fuentes, $25 in Produce – Susan Blackman Healing Hands, Thirty Minute Back and Shoulder Massage – Kevin Jaguar Tattoos, Two Body Piercings – Heather/Gail Smith Jaguar Tattoos, One Tattoo – Dan Japs Godfrey, Two Bags Seaweed Compost – Dave D.
Quarterdeck RestauKerr Barber Shop, rant, Dinner for Two Two Haircuts for Men – Dave – Deb/J. Kantor Rick’s Place, Two PizKerr Barber Shop, Two zas – Heather Coburn Eyebrow Shapings for Rick’s Place, Two PizWomen – Gail Dusa zas – Sandra Steele La Dolce Vita, One Robert’s Grove, DinBottle Red or White ner for Two – Heather Wine (Winner’s Choice) – D. Dennis Rogaua Imports, $35 Gift Certificate – Deb Lunch Box (Malu), Hamrell One Roasted Chicken with Sides – Jim Hunt- Secret Garden Restauer rant, $50 Gift Certificate – Patrick c/o FlyMango’s, Pizza for ing Pig Two with Beer – Jim Secret Garden RestauMango’s, Pizza for rant,, $50 Gift CertifiTwo with Beer – Kimcate – Annelise berly Secret Garden Spa, Mary’s Cooking, One One Paraffin Pedicure Lunch with Soda – ElTreatment – B. Kantor vin c/o Ally’s Mim’s Restaurant, Secret Garden Spa, Two Lunches with One Half Hour Foot Drinks (Sodas or JuicMassage – Gail Dusa es) – Felker Shack, Lunch for Two MnM Hardware, $100 – Nick Carpenter Gift Certificate – Beth Walton Simply Divine, $30 Gift Certificate – B. Mojo’s, $100 Gift CerKantor tificate – Gail Smith Siripohn’s,Two LunchMojo’s, $100 Gift Ceres – Donna and Sal tificate – Gail Smith Strike a Pose, $50 Gift NiteWind’s, Snorkel Certificate – Rudy Trip for Two – Barry Sunova, One Parrot Ocean Motion, SnorWall Hanging – Susan kel Trip for Two Blackman (Minimum two pax Required) – George Tipsy Tuna, $100 Bar Cowdrey Tab – Nick Omar’s, Dinner for Tooth Fairy, Dental Two – Dave ten Broek Exam and Cleaning – Bernice Church One World Gifts, $50 Gift Certificate – Kim Tranquilo, $100 DinCarpenter ing Certificate – Allen Patricia Celenza, One Treasure Box, $100 1.5 Hour Hot Stone Gift Certificate – Cat Massage – Gail Dusa Regan Pickled Parrot, Dinner Tree of Life, One Half for Two – Allen Hour Chair Massage – J. Kantor c/o Ally’s Placencia Office Supply, $25 Digicell or Tutti Frutti, $15 Gift Smart Credit – Gail Certificate – Elvin Dusa Tutti Frutti, $15 Gift Placencia Pharmacy, Certificate – Regan $25 Gift Certificate – Z-Touch, Facial and Althea Microdermabrasion – Linda Karlson ▪
Clockwise: Wynand Koegelenberg and his partner get laughs with their short and long animal tails. Wynand holds up a Cat's Meow certificate of appreciation granted to Turtle Inn for their longstanding support. PHS members sell merchandise to supporters at the Barefoot Bar. Young boy holds up his new PHS t-shirt next to Erin Ivy. Longtime PHS activist and pet crusader Candy Power who also manages Car Rental of Placencia, volunteers at merchandise table. (MARY TOY).
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Turtle Inn Staff Takes on Victoria with Peak Performance and Physique
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 13
Take the Placencia Humane Society Quiz! continued from page 11 most 90% of PHS’ annual projected budget, is what the public benefits from the most: the monthly vet clinics. Surprised by this number? I was, too.
Turtle Inn Staff celebrate their completed mission to hike to the top of Victoria Peak ― the second highest mountain in Belize standing at 3,688 feet (1,124 metres).
Hammock pick up, breakfast burrito, topping off all By Martin Krediet water bottles, group shot and off we go. We started Turtle Inn walking at 10 minutes to 7 General Manager o' clock that morning from martin@ the welcome center. The turtleinn.com first group covered 12 kiHere we go again! 5:17 a.m. lometers (7.5 miles) by 10 pick up by Melvin Arevalo a.m. and took a refreshing to drive from Placencia Vil- swim and needed break. lage to the Cockscomb Ba- We then continued on to a sin Wildlife Sanctuary for fast hike from 12 km to 19 our annual hike to Victoria km (11.8 miles). Tough? Peak! Yes! Humidity, 100 percent! By 12:30 p.m. we arrived at In car: Evelyn Nerio (Tata 2), Kevin Quischan (Catha) the base camp after following some fresh paw prints of , Estevan Ash (Ashley), what looked like a four-year Javier Martinez (BDF), -old female puma who was Primitivo Medina (Booheaded in our exact same Boo), Francisco Alvarado direction. (Chica), Melvin Gonzalez (Pony), Arlene August (Kitty), Freddy (Cepillin), Thomas Morales (Prince Royce) and myself, Martin Krediet (Mechas).
We found an old hole and started a fire to cook pasta and ramen noodles while all took turns to take a bath under the waterfall and re-
laxed in our hammocks for most of the afternoon while waiting for the second half of our group who arrived three hours later. Exhausted, we were all in bed at 7 p.m.! Let the snoring concert commence! Thankfully, Kevin, our biggest snoring performer, placed his hammock outside of the zink roof hut under which we all slept. 4:30 a.m. wake up call. Ash did not sleep since he did not bring a hammock and made a make-shift bed out of planks - prison style! Pretty uncomfortable, so no rest for him. We left at 6:05 a.m. to make our trek to the summit. Our first group arrived at 9:05 a.m. – surrounded by a thick layer of clouds and mist. (Arlene as first Tur-
The vet charges for all services rendered. Pet owners pay for shots, exams, meds, teeth cleaning, etc. The spays/neuters, those very necessary surgeries that not only control the pet population, but also keep our pets healthier and happier, are donation-only; pay what you can afford. The feral cat program is financed through PHS and with donations generously given by you the community.
Feeding Bugle Caye dogs=$1536.00 per year. It all adds up to $42,905.00 per year. So now you understand how things are financially for PHS, and why there seems to be a constant plea for your support, in terms of your time, your money, your in-kind donations/services. Every kindness you show PHS, whether it is buying a roll of paper towels, volunteering to work at a monthly clinic, cleaning the yard, or clicking on the PayPal button on our FB page or website, whatever you do for PHS, you are making our job just a little bit easier.
Ah, but there are more expenses.
You can begin here at our website :www.placenciahumanesocietybelize.org/
$1555.00 = insurance on the building per year.
Or like Placencia Humane Society on Facebook.
Utilities = $984.00 per year (includes water, electric, and phone).
We who are the voices of all the pets on our Peninsula, thank you for lightening our load!
Clinic supplies = $1800.00 per year. Lease on the property =$100 per year. Legal/government/company filings =$210.00 annually. Yard cleaning =$480.00 per year. tle Inn female employee, which made the trail extra Ash, Primo, Tom, Freddy slippery this year. This was and myself. We got caught in some rain on the way up, continued on page 23
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 14
Peninsula Stands in Solidarity with Global Citizens Against Offshore Drilling
(Photo by ANTHONY WILLIAM SCOUT UNDERWOOD.)
On Saturday, May 16, close to 30 concerend people representing various communities on the Placencia Peninsula showed up to the beach in Placencia Village to join in solidarity with those all over the world who are against offshore oil drilling. Other communities in Belize who held hands for 15 minutes at 12 p.m. that day were Hopkins, Belize City, Dangriga, Belmopan, Sarteneja, San Ignacio, Corozal, Punta Gorda, Orange Walk and Caye Caulker. The event was organized by OCEANA Belize who has been a key advocate on behalf of the Belize Barrier Reef and its many stakeholders in their talks with the Government of Belize who has been considering the alternative exploration for the black gold.▪
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 15
PLACENCIA PENINSULA MAPS
Continues on page 18. Visit the Placencia Tourism Center in Placencia Village for a brochure copy of a Peninsula map published by Placencia Communications at the cost of just BZ$1. We’re located on the main street, across from Scotia bank just behind Re/Max.
From North of Placencia Airstrip to Riversdale Bunches of Fun Banana Farm Tours Lost Reef Beachfront Suites
From Placencia Water Tower to Airstrip Barefoot Services
Platinum Designs
Tropic Air & Maya Island Air Placencia Airstrip
RFG Insurance
Distance from Maya Beach to the Placencia Hotel area measures approx. 2.5 miles. Ocean’s Edge Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro
Jaguar Lanes
Green Parrot Beach Houses
Los Porticos
Joyce & Frank’s Bed & Breakfast
Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows Singing Sands Inn
Turtle Inn
Splash Dive Center
Chabil Mar
Cocoplum Vacation Rentals Cocoplum Resort Community The Villas at Cocoplum
The Maine Stay Cordy’s Beach Cottages Goss Chocolate Palmtree Designs
Blue Crab Beach House Bahia Laguna Beach Suites
Lola’s Art
Nautical Inn Seine Bight Village
Robert’s Grove Beach Resort Laru Beya Villas Miller’s Landing Wild Orchid Properties
The Flying Pig Casa Nettuno
Debbie (Little Bit) Gabor has the solution to your Real Estate needs!
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 16 PLACENCIA CHAPTER OF THE BELIZE TOURISM INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION 2015 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.
Dolce Cabana nharvalik@gmail.com; 604-6214; Nicole Harvalik/ Stefano Ragagnin
Mariposa Beach Resort reservations@mariposabelizebeach.com; 523-4474 or 610-4473 Bruce & Sharon Maddison
Silver Leaf yoliebrown@hotmail.com; 970-596-9551; William & Jolanda Brown; Stefano/agent
Aqua Oasis dreawoody@gmail.com 623-3286
Easy Living Apartments info@easylivingplacencia.com; 523-3481 or 672-3549 Veronique McKenzie
Singing Sands Inn* info@singingsands.com; 533-3022 or 520-8022; Maya Kramer
Arches /The gin7373@aol.com; 479-841-7970 Ginny Clayton
Easy Street 2 theluckyerin22@yahoo.com 628-6447; Erin Ivy
Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro* info@mayabeachhotel.com; 533-8040 or 627-4718; Ellen & John Lee
Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows:taylors@btl.net; 533-8110 or 602-7768 Bill & Adriane Taylor
Eloise’s Travel Lodge 503-3299; Sonia Leslie
ACCOMMODATIONS A Belizean Nirvana belizeanirvana@gmail.com; 523-3331 or 625-3301; Evan Hall
Belize Ocean Club reservations@belizeoceanclub. com; 533-4500 or 622-0445 Anna Perigo
Flamboyant /The flamboyantplacencia@gmail. com;628-1143; Angie Markham Finca fincavilla@gmail.com; 523-3481 or 672-3549; Veronique McKenzie
Blue Crab Beach House linnbluecrabbeach@gmail.com; 523-3544 or 523-3543; Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson
French Louie Caye info@frenchlouiebelize.com; 620-6712; Brice Dial for Terry and Mary Tao
Blue Garden House info@belizecottagerentals.com 207-326-9099; Costas & Sally Christ
Green Parrot Beach Houses* greenparrot@mail.com; 533-8188; David Allardice & Leo Ramirez
Capp’s Inn jbsmfowler@gmail.com 208-437-5740
Harbour Hideaway of Placencia jimandcindy@wellerbelize.com; 623-3286; Jim & Cindy Weller
Captain Jak’s Cabanas theluckyerin22@yahoo.com; 5233561 or 622-7104; Erin Ivy
Harry’s Cozy Cabanas cozycabanas@yahoo.com; 523-3155
Caribbean Travel & Tours **: info@cttbelize.com; 523-3481 or 672-3549;Veronique McKenzie
Hatchet Caye Resort* contact@hatchetcaye.com; 533-4446 or 523-3337; Dasha Shivers
Casa Beya/Sea Grape Escape info@casabeyabelize.com 970-963-1099; Midge & Aaron Dallas
Heaven’s Gate Beach Bungalow info@seasprayhotel.com; 523-3148; Jodie Leslie
Casa Del Sol info@casadelsolbelize.com; 523-3481 or 672-3549; Veronique McKenzie Casa Nettuno framadani.office@gmail.com; 629-2700 or 660-8526 Mariuccia Levoni Casa Palma info@casapalmaplacencia.com 678-1089 Casa Placencia casaplacencia@live.com; 503-3143 or 630-7811 Jacki Tipton Chabil Mar Villas* information@chabilmarvillas. com; 523-3606 or 523-3611; Pierre Brisbois Coconut Cottage kwplacencia@yahoo.com; 523-3234 or 626-8425; Kay Westby Cocoplum Vacation Rentals rentals@cocoplumbelize.net; 623-7774; Aaron Krohn
Hideaway Caye hideawaycaye@yahoo.com; 665-4069; Kimberly & Dustin Ingersoll Joyce and Frank’s Beach House h2odanzer@aol.com; 629-4285 or 561-389-2550; Joyce Danz Laru Beya Resort* info@larubeya.com; 523-3473; Ian McField Lydia’s Guest House lydias@btl.net; 627-7970; Lydia Villanueva Los Porticos Villas reservations@losporticosvillas. com; 523-3227 or 607-4448; Barry Snowden Lost Reef Resort* lostreef@xplornet.com; 610-0816; Lisa D’Amore Maine Stay /The belizekaren@gmail.com; 523-3507; Karen Travers Manatee Inn manateeinn@btl.net; 523-4083; Slavek Machacka
Maya Lodge maya-lodge@hotmail.com; 605-0586; Stefano Ragagnin & Lou McLeod Michelo Flats harbour21@gmail.com; 523-3519 or 626-2518; Michel Ardoullie
Sunset Pointe Condos ewinche713@aol.com; 664-4740; Office Manager, Francisco Three Iguanas Villa colibrihouse@gmail.com or 605-0586; Stefano Ragagnin & Joe Stark
Turtle Inn */** frontdesk@turtleinn.com; Miller’s Landing* 523-3244; Martin Krediet millersplacencia@yahoo.com 523-3010 or 523-3011 Tradewinds Gary & Ann Miller trdewndpla@btl.net; Miramar Apartments info@miramarbelize.com; 523-3658 or 523-3117 or 503-3095; Ilsa Villanueva Mirasol Villa info@mirasolbelize.com; 523-3481 or 672-3549 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
523-3122; Janice Leslie
Village Inn info@thevillageinnbelize.com; 523-3481 or 672-3549; Veronique McKenzie Villas at Cocoplum /The BMannsfeld@yahoo.com; 610-0294 or 628-6447; Boris Mannsfield Whipray Caye Lodge whipraycaye@yahoo.com; 610-1068; Julian & Beverly Cabral White Sand Villa eagleray33@gmail.com; 661-9516 or 602-9315; Tricia Hernandez Yellow Bella yellowbella@alice.it; 605-0586; Stefano Ragagnin
Paradise Vacation Hotel*/** info@belize123.com; 523-3179 or 523-3256; Alan & Deloris Stamm
Yellow House /The info@ctbelize.com; 523-3481 or 523-3081;Veronique McKenzie
Pearl Beach House vb53@centurytel.net; 523-3409 or 605-0586; Bud & Betsy Valian/ Stefano Ragagnin
ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW Courtenay Coye LLP acarr@courtneycoye.com; 523-3282; Tiphany Gongora
Robert’s Grove Beach Resort AUTO RENTALS */**info@robertsgrove.com; Barefoot Services 523-3565 or 523-4367 info@barefootservicesbelize.com; 523-3066 or 629-9602 Sailfish Belize Ltd.* Ian & Megs Yearwood mike@sailfishbelize.com 651-9885; Mike Gargan Car Rental of Placencia powerscandy@hotmail.com; Sea Glass Inn* 523-3284 or 662-7611; brad_schofield@yahoo.com; Candy Power 523-3098; Brad & Christine Schofield CONSULTANTS Barefoot Executive, Ltd. Seaview Suites placenciaseaview@gmail.com; barefootexecutiveltd@gmail.com; 523-3291; Yvette Guild 523-3777; John & Marian Chan Please note that some members in our Accommodations listing offer additional services:
*Restaurant **Tour Operator ***Property Rentals
Guild & Guild Consulting guildandguild@hotmail.com 523-3251 or 523-3291; Yvette Guild Treerem Consulting & Investment, www.treerem.com
HEALTH, FITNESS, SPAS & SALONS BB Yoga Flow info@bbyogaflow.com; 631-7726; Agnes Balawejder-Busch Siripohn Thai Massage jenjira01@yahoo.com; 620-8718 or 600-0375; Siriporn Thakham Secret Garden Day Spa lee@secretgardenplacencia.com 523-3420/624-6096; Lee Nyhus Tooth Fairy Dental Clinic toothfairyclinic@gmail.com; 503-3736 or 633-0678; Dr. Dalila Vanzie-Krohn Tony’s Gym tony@belizefit.com 631-7427; Tony Pinder Tree of Life Massage Studio smallkristine@yahoo.com; 624-5408; Kristine Small NON-PROFIT ORGS Placencia Humane Society 523-3185 or 604-8676 David Kafka, president INSURANCE AGENTS RF&G Insurance, Ltd. kitty@frenchlouiecayebelize.com; 523-3228 or 610-3228; Kitty Fox REAL ESTATE AGENTS Bayshore Limited www.bayshore.bz; 604-8910, Jenny Wildman or 600-1040, Xen Wildman Boris Mannsfeld & Associates Info@RealEstatePlacencia.com; 523-3063; Boris Mannsfeld & Frik DeMeyere Cocoplum stewart@cocoplumbelize.net 610-1009; Stewart Krohn Coldwell Banker Southern Belize Realty 523-3500; Charmaine Voss info@coldwellbankerbelize.com CPC Real Estate Solution info@belizeproperty.com; 672-9000 Dan Dunbar & Michael Young Re/Max 1st Choice david@belizepropertycenter. com;631-9622 or 523-3666; David Kafka Sandy Beach Real Estate sandybeachbelize@gmail.com; 634-2668; Sandy Beach Waterfront Real Estate waterfrontbelize@aol.com; 610-3264;Patrick & Denise Callahan Wild Orchid Properties aline@wildorchidbelize.com; 600-7991; Aline Habib Member Restaurant Update! Tiger Beach Club Hours Have Changed Tiger Beach Club will be OPEN Wednesday through Saturday (throughout the low season) Time: 5 p.m. - close They are CLOSED every Sun, Mon & Tues.
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 17
Visit issuu.com/theplacenciabreeze or www.facebook.com/ThePlacenciaBreeze RESTAURANTS, BARS CAFÉS & ENTERTAINMENT Above Grounds Coffee keithgmorrison@gmail.com; 634-3212; Keith Morrison
SHOPPING & GENERAL PRODUCT & REPAIR Added Touch /The rrobin@btl.net; 223-0054 or 223-1461; Robin McCutcheon
Barefoot Bar barefootbarbz@gmail.com ; 523-3515; Cassie & Brice Dial
Art Affair Gallery/The jenari_13@yahoo.com; 604-1906 ot 503-3206 Ernest Garcia & Jeanna Casey
Brewed Awakenings brewedawakeningsbelize@gmail. com; 635-5312; Ryan & Natalie Dixon
Cardelli (Shrimp) Farms Ltd. lact57@yahoo.com; 610-0480; Linda Thornton
Dawn’s Grill grillngo@yahoo.com; 602-9302; Dawn Pollard
Cowboy Custom Construction cccbelize@gmail.com; 627-3866 or 632-6116; Dick Beach
De’Tatch Seafood Grill & Bar jodiejjyearwood@gmail.com, 503-3385 or 523-4035, Jodie Yearwood
Doran’s Services takunchances@yahoo.com; 670-4130; Doran Yount
Dragon Fly Moon rongdi.chen@yahoo.com 523-3662; Amy Chen
Goss Chocolate linnbluecrabbeach@gmail.com 523-3544 or 523-3542 Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson
Fantoni’s Kitchen fantoniskitchen@gmail.com, 630-4752 Cleeve Westby
Lola’s Art Gallery lolasartgallery@yahoo.com 523-3342/601-1913
Flying Pig/ The theflyingpig.belize@gmail.com; 602-6391; Patrick Gonzalve
Master Plumbing fredwalton53@yahoo.com; 669-1014; Dick Walton
TOUR OPERATORS & TRAVEL AGENTS (contd.) Daytripper Catamaran daytrippercatamaran@gmail.com; 666-3117
Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club belize@tradewindscruiseclub. com; 523-3303
Edwards, Dan & Kim thislldo.dan@gmail.com; 622-1656
Joy Tours joytour@btl.net; 523-3325; Hubert & Karen Young
Dial, Mary Ann madialinbze@yahoo.com; 523-3209 Dusa, Lee & Gail gail@getdusa.com; 663-9087
Hess, Tina Koster, Liliana lilianakoster@yahoo.com; 663-8630; 665-5779
Fairs, Rick & Brigitte: ridgwood@telusplanet.net; 628-6533
Smith, Stan & Mary: stanmary@btl.net; 523-4306
Moorings/The mooringsbelize@btl.net 523-3351 or 604-2861 Renee Brown Placencia Adventures by Land or Sea placenciaadventures@yahoo. com; 523-3307 or 622-1886; Ainsworth “Cubby” Leslie Placencia Eagle Ray Tours eagleray33@gmail.com 661-9516 or 602-9315 Tricia Hernandez & Rene Leslie
MnM Hardware Placencia duncker@btl.net; 523-3517 or 523-3537; Dora Duncker
J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar info@jdeesplacencia.com; 503-3351; Daisy & Jeremy Leslie
Mosquito Coast Trading Company Limited rjay@btl.net; 523-8141 or 610-1441; Ray Twanow
Splash Dive Center patricia@splashbelize.com ; 523-3058 or 610-0235 Patricia Ramirez
Palmtree Designs muzamanzie@btl.net or muzamanzie@gmail.com; 523-3563 or 669-4675; Marion & Ed Carr
Taste Belize tastebelize@gmail.com; 664-8699; Lyra Spang
Placencia Supper Club info@marcusperigo.com 636-5015; Marcus Perigo Quarterdeck Restaurant info@larubeya.com 523-3476; Ian McField Rumfish y Vino rumfish@btl.net; 523-3293 or 666-6934; Pamela & John Solomon Tiger Beach Club tigerbelize@yahoo.com; 628-1250; Frank Gagliano Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar tipsytuna@hotmail.com; 523-3089; Salva & Gillian Zabaneh Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor tizy.lory@virgilio.it; Tiziana Del Col Yoli’s Bar regantrethewey@hotmail.com 625-2763; Yolanda Trethewey SCHOOLS (PIA) Peninsula International Academy peninsulaacademy.org; 601-3523; Selena Lucas
Placencia Mini Storage celeste1001@live.com; 665-0800; Paul & Celeste Smith Platinum Designs hannah@sbplatinum.com; 610-0327; Hannah Cowell Robert Nicolait & Associates Limited info@watertreatmentbelize.com 523-3149; Lou Nicolait Sunova Beach Gift Shop zabeyles@btl.net; 523-4060 Gillian Zabaneh Sure Step slipstop.ca@gmail.com; 601-5548 Bill Wohl
Trip N Travel lgodfrey@btl.net; 523-3205; Laura Godfrey We appreciate our members' support! Please remember to renew your membership for 2015. We want to keep you on our ever-growing list! Also, take advantage of volunteer opportunities! Write for the Breeze or help out at Lobsterfest!
Feldman, Babe & Karen cabf@jasarinc.com; 610-0356 Ford, David dfordassociates@gmail.com; 621-7587 Ferris, Ken kenneth.ferris@asu.edu; 636-8675
Gabor, Deborah gringainbelize@gmail.com 628-7004 Glessner, Virginia & Fox, Jay virgles@icloud.com Hall, Susan McMillan-Hunter: sebelize@yahoo.com
Mertens, Wini
Taylor, Rand Van Deurzen, John vandeurzen.bz@gmail.com; 662-0020 Jenny, Wildman bayshorelimited@gmail.com; 604-8910 Taylor, Winston wftaylorii@yahoo.com; 623-7971
Friedeck, Maureen & Mike mnm4664@msn.com 604-0796
Witter, Madalon 622-3853; bahialaguna@mail.com
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 $200.00
Medium 11-50 employees $500.00
Large 51+ employees $1,500.00
HANNUAL INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIPS $100.00
Extra Membership Cards $25.00
The Placencia BTIA congratulates all participants of the Third Annual Placencia Sailing Club National Sailing Regatta!
TOUR OPERATORS, ADVENTURES & TRAVEL AGENTS Air Belize Skydiving skydive@airbelizeskydiving.com; 626-9189; Jeff Root & Teresa Rivers Belize Trips info@belize-trips.com; 610-1923; Katie Valk Cayequest Tours cayequest@gmail.com; Mark Leslie; 633-6330 or 664-8699
Fuller, Fred & Jacque jacquecfuller@yahoo.com; 628-0992 or 629-6429
Destinations Belize mtoy@destinationsbelize.com 523-4018 or 610-4718; Mary Toy
Jaguar Lanes jaguarlanes@yahoo.com; Scott May
Pickled Parrot/ The adrianalynn37@gmail.com; 636-7068; Lynn and Eugene Upham
Celeste, Donna bodie1949@yahoo.com Cohen, Howard & Karen howard.cohen@sunnybrook.ca; 622-6695 Coston, Debbie debcoston@yahoo.com; 624-6483
Quest for Adventure in Belize w/ Splash Ltd. ralph@splashbelize.com 610-1278; Ralph Capeling
Mango’s on Maya Beach mangosmayabeachplacencia@ yahoo.com; 533-8102 Frank DaSalva
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS
(MARION CARR)
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 18
A Belizean Nirvana 55-D4 Above Ground Coffee 18-C4 Artful Dodger Sail & Canvas 92-A2 Barefoot Bar 39-D3 Barefoot Services 9-D3 Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club 98-A2 Blue Garden House 88-E2 Boris Mannsfeld & Associates 97-C4 Brewed Awakenings 47-D2 Captain Jak’s Cabanas 52-D2 Caribbean Travel & Tours 8-D3 Casa Del Sol 76-F3 Casa Palma 56-E3 Casa Placencia 81-F2 Century21 BTAL 93-B4 Coconut Cottage 54-D4 Colibri House 55-E3 CPC Reality 43-C3 Destinations Belize 42-C4 Dolce Cabana 64-E2 Easy Living Apartments 57-C4 Eloise’s Guesthouse 58-C3 French Louie Caye 33-D3 George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse 89-E3 Dawn’s Grill 17-C3 Guild & Guild Consulting 10-F2 Harbor Hideaway 88-E1 Harry’s Cozy Cabanas 61-B3 Hatchet Caye 35-E5 Hatchet Caye Office 35-C1 J-Dees Restaurant & Bar 20-D3 Jewel of Placencia 27-C4 Joy Tours 44-C3 Julia’s Cabanas 62-E3 Leslie Tech Service 46-D3 Lydia’s Guesthouse 64-E3 Manatee Inn 65-F3 Maya Lodge 66-E2 Michelo Flats 67-F2 Miramar Apartments 68-E3 Mirasol Villa 69-C4 MnM Hardware Placencia 96-D3 One World Rental 70-C4 Paradise Vacation Resort 71-B3 Pickled Parrot Rest. & Bar 26-C3 Placencia Bazaar 7-D3 Placencia Yacht Club 34-A5 Property Pro Belize 43-C3 Quest for Adventures 47-F2 Ranguana Lodge 30-E3 Re/Max Property Center 39-D3 Rumfish y Vino 43-C3 Sea Glass Inn 56-B3 Seaspray Hotel 79-E3 Sea View Suites 63-C4 Secret Garden Day Spa 4-C3 Secret Garden Restaurant & Bar 24-C3 Silver Leaf 90-E2 Siripohn Thai Massage 8-D3 Southern Environmental Ass. 95-D3 Sunset Pointe Condos 40-A1 Splash Dive Center (Sales Office) 49-D2 Splash Main Office 19-C3 Sunova Boutique 46-D3 Tarpon Caye Lodge 45-E3 Tarpon Caye Main Office 46-D3.5 The Arches 86-E5 The Flamboyant 28-C4 The North Beach 73-E3 The Purple Space Monkey 41-C3 The Shak Beach Café 16-C4 The Yellow House 74-D3 The Village Inn 31-F3 Three Iguanas Villa 86-E2 Tipsy Tuna 40-D3 Tony’s Gym/Belize Fit 17-E3 Toucan Lulu 75-F3 Tree of Life 8-D3
Trip N Travel Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor Whipray Caye Lodge White Sand Villa Yello Bella Yoli’s Bar
51-C4 43-C3 32-E5 82-C3 29-F2 21-B3
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 19
Whale Sharks Make Annual Tour
continued from front page ing to catch a glimpse of the they filter out from the water salt water behemoth.
world, all located in tropical waters, to have predictable whale shark visits. With a whale shark season falling between March and June, the creatures have boosted tourism in southern Belize attracting visitors from all over the world who are hop-
with their rows of tiny teeth and filter pads. It is during While they can grow up to a the whale shark season and “purported 18 meters long” around a full moon when or as Graham also says, up over 25 species of fish are to the length of a school releasing sperm and eggs bus, the sharks are gentle into the water that divers giants feeding on millions and snorkelers along with of little fish eggs and sperm specially licensed Belizean known as zooplankton that guides make their way to the
Lucky snorkeler with Turtle Inn Dive Shop scores a one-of-a-kind selfie with a visiting whale shark. (JAMES MANISCALCO)
Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve. Located 22 miles away from Placencia Village, Gladden Spit has become a hot spot for local tour operators marketing whale shark trips. In order to protect the area, in 2001 the Reserve was declared a special protected zone and later a whale Whale sharks visiting Belizean waters feed on dense clumps of sperm and eggs released by huge agshark and reef-fish spawning gregations of dog and cubera snappers. Several stunning shots were caught during an April Turtle Inn dive led by specially trained tour guide Zayne Westby. (MARTY and CAMERON TIBBITS/TURTLE INN DIVE SHOP) aggregation conservation
zone in 2003. The Southern Environmental Organization (SEA) who manages the Reserve takes its role to enforce regulations seriously. Each boat going out to see whale sharks is allowed a 1.5-hour time slot, and only six boats are allowed in the zone at a time. Furthermore, only eight divers or snorkelers are allowed per guide. In order to allow SEA to carry continued on page 27
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 20
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 21
Fragments of Hope Celebrates Eight Years at Coral Mixer By Jolie Pollard Breeze Editor pollard.jolie@ gmail.com
The Placencia-based organization carrying out the popular coral restoration project at Laughing Bird Caye, Fragments of Hope (FoH), has been celebrating many successes within the past year. Quickly gaining national recognition for its contributions towards preserving part of the country’s most lucrative natural asset, the Belize Barrier Reef, the organization has made its mark in many circles, and prospects for future sustainability and the health of Critically Endangered Caribbean acroporids (Elkhorn and Staghorn) are looking up. Through the generosity of Turtle Inn, FoH held a special “Coral Mixer” at the resort’s Mare Restaurant on April 9. Seamlessly executed, FoH impressed attendees with a thorough overview of the organization’s important work developing the acroporid nurseries at Laughingbird Caye. Following a mingling hour with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine from Turtle Inn, guests watched a professional and educational video narrated by former Belizean journalist Janelle Chanona who is now the executive director of Oceana Belize, and that follows local tour guide Louis Godfrey who is planting coral for the project.
watching the video gave me a much better understanding of what they are doing,” said United States Embassy representative Bruce Matthews. “I think it’s a fantastic program, and during one of my dives on this trip when I saw some coral bleaching, I definitely saw the need for rejuvenating the coral, so I’m very pleased to see this coral restoration project going on.” Matthews explained that since U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry hosted the “Our Ocean” conference in Washington, D.C. in June 2014 where attendees included international ocean and foreign policy communities, the US has a special interest in partnering with countries around the world to the develop policies that will help to save the ocean and the livelihood of the people who depend on it. “We’re all in this together, and the health of coral is one of several pressing issues we are committed to address when combating ocean acidification, marine pollution and sustainable fisheries,” Matthews said.
coral. I thought, ‘Oh! This woman has gone mad!” recalled the minster, gathering many laughs from the audience. “Not having a background in marine conservation at that level, I didn’t even know that that was possible,” she admitted. The minister said that she has admired Carne’s work with FoH over the past eight years and explained that the work being carried out by FoH is timely with the negative impacts of climate change on the Belize Barrier Reef.
Guests also listened to insightful speeches on the many years of coral restoration work and the evolution of FoH delivered by FoH Founder Lisa Carne and past board member, Valentine Rozado. The evening also saw a most heartfelt tribute to Carne from the Honorable Lisel Alamilla, current Minister Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development.
The minister also acknowledged that while the Belize Government, other parties and marine conservation groups may have different goals and different roles in the economy and environment, when coming together, they can find solutions. “To my understanding, you are a resource for my ministry in many critical issues that involve coral and that should be celebrated also,” said Alamilla about Carne.
“We really have to build resilience of our Barrier Reef and in effect, our fishing sector, as well as the livelihood of the 3,000 fishermen currently licensed in Belize,” said Alamilla, “Multiply that figure by an average of five per household, and that’s a significant number of Belizeans dependent on fisheries.” According to the minister, while many may not understand the science involved in the FoH project, they can be assured that the work is having a “domino effect on a large scale.”
Special guests representing conservation groups, governmental departments and the private sector watch an educational video on the organization's coral restoraation work. (JOLIE POLLARD)
come a long way in the past eight years, Carne spoke about future plans for FoH including the training of more local stakeholders including fisherfolk and tour guides to assist in hands-on coral planting efforts. “We want to have this recognized as a real valuable skill or alternative livelihood income source,” said Carne, who explained that the income could become significant for local stakeholders who have difficulty finding work in their respective fields during the slower months of the tourism industry. FoH work has been dependant on financial support through grants and donations and has developed three special coral-themed tiers to recognize donors giving at different levels through monetary and in-kind contributions.
person Dale Godfrey who also out plants at the nursery and representatives from the Southern Environmental Association, the Placencia Village Council, the Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association, Toledo Institute for Development and Environment, Love FM, Oceana Belize and resorts and other businesses in the local private sector. In addition to hosting the event and providing complimentary snacks, Turtle Inn also donated 10 percent of proceeds generated from the sales of their Indonesian dinner special that night.
For more information on donating to FoH, their project and potential volunteer opportunities in a coral mapping effort, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook. Other guests at the Coral com/fragments-of-hope-cor“I knew a bit about FoH “I remember when Lisa told before coming today, but me she was going to plant While the organization has Mixer included FoH Chair- al-nurseries-in-belize.▪
Quality Products At a Quality Job For a Quality Price! Good News!! We are carrying Intex Pools & Toys! Remember Pool business is our only business! Ph: 652-0891 Fx: 523-3371 plislandpoolsupply@yahoo.com Mon-Fri 8-4; Sat 8-12 nn; Open during lunch! Placencia Village Road. Managers: Carlos and Sue
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 22
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 23
Plea for Basketball Court in Seine Bight Answered Located in the central part of the Placencia Peninsula is Seine Bight Village, a community that has focused more on fishing traditions and a rich culture of music, oral histories and family legacies. A first-time visitor to the Peninsula will quickly notice that there’s a stark contrast between the village and its neighbours, Placencia Village to the south and the predominantly retirement Maya Beach community to the north, especially in relation to economic development. However, as the village population, which shows the largest number of youth on the Peninsula in census figures, continues to grow, community efforts are steadily progressing to ensure that the village is being equipped with resources that will provide foundations for a bright future for its young people.
were swimming at sea and playing football on the beach or the football field in front of the community center. fore capturing the first place “With more sports available, trophy in the Stann Creek we can keep the crime rate down,” he said, referencing district competition. incidents of youth led astray Fourteen-year-old, St. Al- in the community. phonsus standard six student Alex Valero was taking a According to Seine Bight water break off court. (New Village Council Chairman, staff and basketball enthu- Justo Augustine, the basketsiasts Mara Jernigan and ball court is one of several Aaron Vitali working at the projects he had outlined in nearby resort under con- his manifesto, and he is hapstruction, Itz’ana, have been py that his council's vision visiting every Sunday morn- has finally become a reality. ing to play along with the younger children and share Augustine credited the uncold water and fresh fruit the dertaking largely to Sue children.) This was Valero’s Dorn, president of the Belize second Sunday visit to the Mission Society, a Lutheran Teen makes a slam dunk during a Sunday morning game with a court since it was completed. Church based in St. Lou- mix of players on the new basketball court in Seine Bight Village, is, Missouri in the United which was completed in March this year. (JOLIE POLLARD) “I love to shoot. That’s the most important thing,” said Valero, when asked what he enjoyed most about basketball. “I like to shoot, so that the ball can make it into the ring.” After displaying his basketball pointer prowess, Valero headed off to the beach to play football with friends.
On a hot Sunday morning in April, a mix of boys, teenagers and young men in their 20s sweat as they jump, dribble and shoot on the new basketball court that broke ground behind the local primary school. They had been waiting for some time for the project to finish. There is so much passion for basketball in the village that last year the Seine Bight Sharks basketball team travelled daily to the Placencia Village basketball court for their practice sessions be-
“It’s really good to have a basketball court in the village because majority of our Clockwise: Itz'ana Resort Culinary Director Mara Jernigan shares cold water and fresh fruit with chilathletes are basketball play- dren who come out to play on Sunday mornings. Itz'ana donated 90 loads of sand for the project. St. Alphonsus standard students Jevon and Alex pose on court during the Sunday game. (JOLIE POLLARD) ers,” said Kirwin Ramirez, a physical education teacher at Peninsula International Academy in Placencia Village who lives in Seine Bight. “We had been crying out for a basketball court for the past several years and now finally the children can come and play.” Ramirez said that before the court was completed, their only options for recreational activities
By Jolie Pollard Breeze Editor pollard.jolie@ gmail.com
▫ Village receives overwhelming support from various community stakeholders to realize a dream for Seine Bight's favorite sport.
States. The chairman said that Dorn was instrumental in procuring needed funds for the start up. The Lutheran group has had a longstanding partnership with the Seine Bight community having worked with various social projects throughout the years.
cencia for overseeing construction efforts and soliciting donors and praised the generous donation of 90 loads of sand by Jonathan Blitz of Itz’ana Resort, which carries a value of close to BZ$8,000, as well as the donation of backboards by Atlantic Bank, Ltd. and hoops He also recognised the by Budget Rent a Car. efforts of Steve Christensen, the vice chair- Other major contriman of the Placencia butions came from BTIA and member of Cocoplum who prothe Rotary Club of Pla- vided a backhoe, Pla-
cencia Concrete, Carlos Ramirez of Ramcot for bulldozing and sand levelling services, Jovani Gonzalez for providing manual labor at a specially discounted price, the Ministry of Works for transporting sand to the construction site and Michael Kramer of Robert’s Grove for donating the fuel used to power up machines in the construction process.▪
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 24
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 25
Izak Stands Tall After Spelling Bee District Finals By Jonnell Augustine Contributing Writer
A
jonnell0788@ gmail.com
s 1 2 - y e a r- o l d Izak Leslie walked off the stage during the 21st Coca Cola Spelling Bee Stann Creek district finals, he was all smiles. It was Izak’s first year at the preliminary Spelling Bee, and he confessed to me that he was nervous. Earlier that day he had journeyed from St. Alphonsus Roman Cathoic Primary School in Seine Bight Village to the Sacred Heart Primary School auditorium in Dangriga Town with his classmates, and even a couple competitors who joined his bus from Hopkins and Sittee River villages. Izak had advanced two rounds into the competition before he was out of the Spelling Bee. "The pronunciations the pronouncer gave today weren’t what we studied, so Izak’s being eliminated is not entirely his fault," said Izak’s teacher Lorris Moriera, "Honestly, a lot of the kids at the school have this same problem.” Even though he didn't leave the stage that day the Stann Creek Spelling Bee champion, Izak remained in positive spirits. “I’m disappointed in myself," he acknowledged, "but I know I tried my best.” While he reflected on his experience, his face was lit up with a smile, and he never came down hard on himself.
Students of the Month St. John's Anglican Memorial Primary School MARCH: Pre-school AM, Peder Cabral; Pre-school PM, Stafford Eiley; Inf. I, Shailey Gillet; Inf. II, Javianne Vernon; Std. I, Daniah Cabral; Std. II, Carmen Garcia; Std. III, Sheline Gillett & Adam Flores; Std. IV, Chole Lopez; Std. V, Tristan Sutherland; Std. VI, Geon Rudon. (Continued on page 26)
▫ Seine Bight primary school student shows great spirits despite being eliminated from district finals. In the competition's 21-year-history, no student from the Peninsula has ever made it to nationals.
two representatives in the competition, was first-runner up. Other competitors represented Holy Family Roman Catholic Primary School (Hopkins), Sittee River Methodist Primary School, Sacred Heart Primary School, Holy Angels Roman Catholic Primary School (Stann Creek Valley), Christ the King Anglican Primary School (Dangriga) and St. Matthews Anglican Primary School (Pomona).
In fact, displaying an admirable sense of sportsmanship, Izak sat along with his classmates and teacher and watched the remaining competitors as they battled out for their first runner up and first place trophies. Looking on as students from other schools cheered for the other contestants, his attitude was one of positivity and Last year Kazandra Bersupportiveness. rie of St. John's Anglican Memorial Primary School Izak's classmates also in Placencia Village represhowed a wonderful comasented the Peninsula in the raderie, congratulating him district finals. after he finished talking with me about his experience. According to Rose Guerra After the competition was of the Bowen & Bowen over, they walked with him Company who operates the down the steps of the auCoca-Cola francise in Belize ditorim where they bought and sponsors and organizes some snacks before boarding the event, no student from the bus heading back to St. the Placencia Peninsula has Alphonsus. ever represented the Stann Creek district in the national As a competitor in the disspelling bee held in Belize trict finals, Izak was awarded City throughout the 21-year a dictionary and a personhistory of the prestigous alized Coca Cola Spelling Coca Cola event. Bee poster. He held both as a proud badge of honor for However, other rural comhis school. munities from Stann Creek have impressed throughout Ten students representing the years in nationals provfives zones of the Stann ing again and again that some Creek District competed in of the most underesourced the Spelling Bee that day. schools in the country have Adriani Young of Shiloh what it takes to come out on Seventh Day Adventist Pritop. Stann Creek celebrated mary School in Indepenits first national champion dence Village took the first representing Maya Mopan in place trophy while Santiago 2001. In 2005 Sacred Heart Chub of Our Lady Roman Primary School placed third Catholic Primary School in and then won the champtionBella Vista Village, who had
Above: Izak poses with A-Z, the mascot for the Coca-Cola Spelling Bee. Below: Upon their return home from the district finals in Dangriga Town, Izak holds up his personalized Coca Cola Spelling Bee poster in a celebratory group photo with his teacher and classmates. (JONNELL AUGUSTINE)
ship title in 2013. Solid Rock Academy (Dangriga Town) placed second in 2010 and then first place in 2014. Other schools from Stann Creek who have sent competitors to nationals in addition to winning schools and St. Alphonsus and St. John's
Anglican include Light of the Valley Baptist School, Red Bank Christian and Kids First Child Development and Independence Primary School, whose 2014 Stann Creek winner Benjamin Chub competed again in this year's district finals. ▪
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 26
Students of the Month Peninsula International Academy Preschool, Emma Westby -- forhelping hands with her peers, listening ears and for staying focused and on task. Lower Primary; Alexander Young -- for being diligent, responsible and respectful. He tries his best in class, and he makes good choices! Middle Primary, Violet Bermudez -- for being
a hardworking, caring and patient student. She has embodied PIA’s objective of learning and has proven to be diligent. Violet has a growth mindset in literacy, operational math, global studies discussions and project-based science. Her perseverance and positive attitude has allowed her to advance in many areas both academically and socially. Upper Primary, Emma Lutz -- for being a diligent worker, consistent in homework, driven to success and for constantly applying the concepts taught in learning
beyond the borders of the classroom. She is a joy to have in the classroom!
St. John's Anglican Memorial Primary School (Continued from page 25)
APRIL: Pre-school AM, Zion Lockwood; Pre-school PM, Linda Guiterrez; Inf. I, Jahmilah Miguel; Inf. II, Shayan Westby; Std. I, Damarion Eiley; Std. II, Jarin Martinez; Std. III, Jade Torres and Sasha Lopez; Std. IV, Le-Andra Lemus; Std. V, Trevor Vellos; Std. VI, Sonia Ramirez.▪
PLACENCIA PENINSULA ANNUAL EVENT CALENDAR 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. FEBRUARY Rotary Auction ― Bid on impressive donated items. Placencia Sidewalk Arts & Music Festival ― Pick up the ultimate souvenir from Belize’s best artists
& check out the local & party all night long to music scene. Organized popular DJs & artists. by the Placencia BTIA. Take the kids to the annual Easter Egg Hunt. MARCH Flaming Heart Ball Placencia Humane Featuring The Taste S o c i e t y ’s F u r b a l l of the Peninsula ― ― Support your furSample a wide range of ry friends at the PHS cuisine contributed by largest fundraiser of the participating Peninsula year on April 25 at the restaurants & home Barefoot Beach Bar. cooks. Proceeds benefit the Placencia Volunteer MAY Fire Department. Placencia Sailing Club Annual Regatta, May APRIL 23 & 24, 2015 Easter Break ― Go wild! Beach hotspots JUNE like the Tipsy Tuna & Placencia Lobsterfest Barefoot Beach Bar A mega beach party hold bikini competi- like no other in Belize tions, eating contests organized by the Plaand more throughout cencia BTIA & Plathe raucous Easter hol- cencia Village Council. idays! Squeeze into Celebrate Placencia & packed bars and clubs 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 19-20-21, 2015 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, 2015 Saltwater Fishing Tournament, SEPT. 19 & 20, 2015
Independence Day Carnival. SEPT. 21, 2015 ― 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, 2015 DECEMBER Placencia Mistletoe Ball End of the World Placencia Marathon and Half Marathon
PLACENCIA TOUR GUIDE ASSOCIATION MEMBERS Ainsworth Colin Leslie 622-1886 or 661-3606 Ainsworth Russell Leslie 651-0854 Alex Small Alrin Muschamp Amin Neal Andrea Villanueva Apolo Caliz Aretha Paleyo Arthur Vernon, Jr. Arthur Westby, Jr. Arthur Westby Sr. Bernard Leslie, Sr Bertrand Cuevas Brian Young Sr. Bruce Godfrey Bruce Leslie Bryan P. Benguche Carlton Young, Jr Celso Mora Cirilio Chun Claude Vernon Clint Villanueva Conrad Villanueva Dale Godfrey Dan Santos Daniel Cabral David Ortiz David Vernon Denbeigh Arzu Devin Lozano
662-0738 669-5831 635-7000 602-2148 634-0950 667-8755 669-0387 604-5564 523-3321 667-8356 634-3225 631-5971 625-4478 627-8820 663-5818 634-3493 668-6702 669-0387 634-8476 630-2795 669-1412 622-0998 632-9104 620-6755 600-6044 602-9825
Diego Coc 669-9872 Doren Leslie 625-0191 Dorianny Perez 622-4011 Doyen Gardiner 605-4061 Doyle Gardiner 600-2318 Dwayne Young 631-1953 Earl Godfrey 660-1574 Eddie Usher 670-1485 Edlin Leslie, Jr 626-0003 Edwin Carr 626-6810 Egbert Cabral 620-5974 Egbert Popper Jr. 626-6138 Elroy Burgess 632-4580 Eloy Cuevas 661-2363 Elroy Burgess Elroy Tucker 622-2811 Emelly Miralda 667-4200 Emmanual Villanueva 627-4816 Eric Forman 664-8121 Ernest Garcia 625-3110 Eusebio Bonell 667-4708 Eworth Garbutt 610-1018 Eyanick Pop 631-3601 Faygan Villanueva 635-0120 Florencio Shal 668-4298 Fransisco Alvarado 660-4613 Francisco Linarez 670-3781 Gareth Longsworth 605-9845 George Eiley 604-0488 Gilbert Garbutt Jr. 669-8745 Glenford Eiley 630-2843 Godfrey Arzu
Grayson Sierra Hank Rhamdas Harold Neal Hubert Young Ian Cuevas Ian Vernon Ivan Leslie Jr. James Leslie Jason Westby Jeremy Garcia Jes Bech Jonathon Gabourel Julian Cabral Kenley Williams Kenroy Eiley Keon Leslie Kevin Modera Kimani Leslie Kirk Mayen Lennox Palacio Leopold Garcia Leopold Leslie Leslie Faux Leonel Tucker, Jr. Linda Garcia Lincoln Garbutt, Jr. Lisa Carne Louis Godfrey Lowell Godfrey Luis Galdmez Lyra Spang Malcolm Young
605-7631 630-7995 635-9262 601-0273 666-1469 661-5014 632-4291 631-9349 635-3938 670-0498 608-7871 610-1068 630-5672 629-3602 628-8817 660-1561 604-6337 665-2247 623-0575 604-4466 604-3477 627-2136 631-5807 665-8383 623-6122 635-0126 668-6474 664-8699 607-7029
Mariko Wallen Mario Sanchez Marisha Betancourt Mark Leslie Maxwell Canelo Melissa Cabral Melvin Arevalo Monique Lamb Nick Pollard Omar Sierra Orlando Betancourt Orlin Ipina Pablo Mendoza Patricia Ramirez Patrick Parks Prince Gongora Rafael Villanueva Randolph Faux Randolph Villanueva Rebecca L. Cabral Rene Leslie Rhawn Godfrey Sean Faux Shaun Young Shawn Young Sydney Lopez Sr. Sydney Lopez Jr. Stephen Faux Stephen Lopez Vance Cabral Walter Garbutt Warren Garbutt
652-0605 666-2797 635-0770 633-6330 631-9614 632-9662 621-4254 631-7790 624-7168 604-0882 631-5661 623-5645 610-0235 601-7459 630-3064 635-5107 667-6208 635-0017 604-4087 602-9315 625-4478 637-4420 631-9347 632-8399 653-2196 667-3503 653-2311 632-9127 622-7339 623-1789 610-1040
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Whale Sharks Make Annual Belize Tour continued from page 19 on site to monitor activi- SEA Science Program Dital Organization (SEA) who manages the Reserve takes its role to enforce regulations seriously. Each boat going out to see whale sharks is allowed a 1.5-hour time slot, and only six boats are allowed in the zone at a time. Furthermore, only eight divers or snorkelers
ties. Just touching a whale shark can result in a fine of BZ$10,000.
It is unclear just how many sharks have visited this season so far, and while all tour operators agree that their most sightings for 2015 were in April, they remain optimistic for June. Accord-
Whale Shark tours have become so popular in the south that popular Placencia-based tour operator Splash Dive Center has opened a second shop at fellow Belize Tourism Industry Association Member Jaguar Reef Lodge & Spa in Hopkins Village. Thanks to Splash, guests at the luxury resort can experience the magic at Gladden Spit, as well as other popular Placencia attractions including trips to the Silk Cayes, Laughingbird Caye and a tour of Placencia Village and a visit to a local restaurant for dinner. (JOLIE POLLARD)
Beachfront at Jaguar Reef Lodge & Spa where Splash now boasts a second dive shop. For more information on adding a stay at Jaguar Reef to your experience in Southern Belize, visit jaguarreef.com
is allowed per guide. In order to allow SEA to carry out their important work at the Reserve, each guest pays a fee of US$15. This also provides SEA rangers
ing to SEA Director Nicole Auil-Gomez, as soon as a new vacancy is filled at their organization, tracking of sightings will resume. Based on data provided by Former
rector Dr. Annelise Hagan, which covered sightings from 2003 to 2012, there can be as many as 68 sightings and as little as under 10 in just one month during the season. Nature can never guarantee a sighting in the blue waters of the whale shark zone in the Gladden Spit Reserve, but many eco-adventurers take solace in other fascinating discoveries under water. During these fertile months, there also other creatures lured to the spawn including Bull Sharks, Lemon Sharks, Tiger Sharks, Caribbean Reef Sharks and other beautiful marine animals. The hundreds and thousands of dog and cubera snappers that aggregate to reproduce are also a wondrous sight to behold. Whale sharks have an estimated lifespan of 70 to 100 years. The species is considered vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and it is listed along with six other species of sharks, under the CMS Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Sharks. Significant research efforts led by scientists including Dr. Rachel Graham and others who have worked with SEA and the former Friends of Nature in partnership with local fisherfolk and tour guides have been credited to Belize’s better understanding of the sharks and their value to the tourism industry today.▪
Placencia Sailing Club Hosts Third Annual Regatta (Press Release)
ing Regatta count towards the ranking determined at The Commonwealth Day the end of the regatta season weekend of May 23 and when the National Optimist 24 saw a great weekend of Champion of Belize 2015 sailing along the Placencia will be announced.. cove in Placencia Village from young sailors despite Weather conditions tested some high winds and chop- these sailors, but they all py waves. Points scored at excelled demonstrating the the third annual Placencia professional training each Sailing Club National Sail- club is receiving in their re-
spective Belize destinations. Top results from the weekend regatta was Trent Hardwick (Belize Sea Scouts) winning first place, Antonio Ricardez, Jr. (Belize City Sailing Club) placing second and Nashira Ricardez (Belize City Sailing Club) placcontinued on page 27
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 27
Placencia Humane Society Launches Restaurant Run By Patricia Celenza PHS Board Member placlibr@btl.net
A Restaurant Run? When a Placencia Humane Society (PHS) Board Member presented this idea to the Board, we were not too sure about it. No non-profit community service group had ever tackled a fundraiser like this. Could PHS ask restaurants/ eateries up and down our Peninsula for one day to donate a portion of their food sales to PHS?We knew that was asking a lot of the businesses in our community. In our minds, it was an experiment, a real test of both the willingness of food establishments to participate, but also the public’s willingness to dine out, all for the benefit of PHS. What we learned from this fundraiser was staggering: HOW COULD WE EVER H AV E Q U E S T I O N E D OUR COMMUNITY??? From the very first announcement of the Restaurant Run on May 7, many eateries didn’t even wait to be asked, they just jumped right in! Businesses voluntarily offered percentages of their sales, or a designated amount on a certain food
item to go directly to PHS. And when the Restaurant Run was over, a number of the businesses gave not only what they had pledged to donate, but gave extra out of their own pockets! For our pets, we raised $1,843!! These businesses did it with an open-hearted generosity! And thanks to the public who intentionally chose these participating food establishments. Restaurants reported they saw new faces dining with them on 7 May, because folks wanted their dining dollars to support PHS!Thank you to the following businesses who were pioneers in the first ever PHS Restaurant Run! Turtle Inn Crow's Nest Rumfish Wendy's Tipsy Tuna Mojo's Flying Pig Pickled Parrot Rick's Place Mariposa Above Grounds Coffee Miller's Landing Chix Mango's Paradise Restaurant Friends near the Pier Brewed Awakenings Barefoot Bar Tranquilo Jaguar Lanes One World ▪
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 28
Placencia Sailing Club Turtle Inn Staff Takes on Victoria with Hosts Third Annual Regatta Peak Performance and Physique continued from page 27 spray Hotel, Pickled Parrot, ing third. Trent, Nashira and four other sailors from other sailing clubs in Belize are going to be representing Belize in Antigua in July 2015, at the Optimist North American Championships. This is a first for Belize and is one of the required qualification stages for the Olympics. Belize Junior Sailing is going for the international big time. Coach Trenton Miller will be accompanying the Laser team and Coach Juan Ignacio Mazzini will be tagging along the Optimist team.
Barefoot Services, Sunny Side Tours, Omar's Creole Grub, Joy Leslie, Cake Chics, William Muschamp, Rainbow Pieces, Juan Caducio, Newton Lennan (Fire Chief), Joy Tours, Carol's Cabanas, Scotia Bank Placencia Staff, BRC Printing, Elite Promos, The Treasure box, Jenari, Unique Jewelery, Marion Carr, Tranquilo Bar & Restaurant, Goss Chocolates, One World Gift Shop, The Secret Garden Day Spa. Placencia Tourism Centre, Placencia Village Council, The Peninsula Store, Everyday Market, Bowen & Bowen, Ltd., A Belizean Nirvana, Wallen's Market, Pappi Cabral, Erika Lopez, Xiomar Lopez, Linda Garcia, Daisy Leslie, Rosenda, Betty Neal, Vanya Ferrel, Cunchie Villanueva and Jenria Lozano.
Furthermore, Antonio Ricardez, Jr. along with 2014 National Optimist Champion Blanca Velasquez have been selected to represent Belize at a special Laser sailing clinic. This event will provide world class Appreciation also goes out training for this new area to all those who donated of sailing for Belize. and volunteered to operate the safety boats, as well The Placencia Sailing Club as the officials working would like to thank all the on the boats and on the following sponsors, donors beach: Paul Hagopian, Jeff and volunteers who made and Theresa Scott, Eworth this regatta a reality and a Garbutt, Steve Young, Evan resounding success: Hall, Tina Tess, Gerad Corditis, Keith Hardwick, Chabil Mar, MnM Hard- Paul Petit, Forest Jones, ware and Service Station Sharon Hardwick, Debbie (gasoline donation), Ian Curling, Alvin Cabral, PeAnderson's Caves Branch, dro and Patricia Joo, SoloHardcore Fishing Char- mon Duncan, Papi Doe and ters, Robert's Grove Re- Maria Cabral. sort, Cozy Corner Hotel and Restaurant, Miramar If we missed anyone, we Apartments, Barefoot Bar, apologize and thank you for Wild Orchid, Crow’s Nest your support! ▪ Cafe Bar & Grill, Sea-
continued from page 13 Arlene along with BooBoo Suddenly, my foot started
cooked the best pasta/rice soup, which we finished a first. Once passing the off with some ginger cake. rock climbing and the 30- The second group arrived at foot rope climb, one reach- 5 p.m. and were tauntinges what I call “the land of ly called “The Turtles” by Avatar" ― amazing orchids, Freddy. moss on trees in multiFrom the top, some calls ple colors and bromeliads were made to friends and everywhere in between a family ordering meals for thick wall of tropical trees, the next day ― 11 of them! palms and tall grass. Since we reached early, the cloud We were also all craving an cover had not lifted much ice cold Belikin beer, which yet, but we were treated I was preparing to order as with magnificent views a special treat for the staff while descending. with the Turtle Inn driver who was picking us up at We relaxed on the top for the welcome center the next about an hour and a half, day. and called out loud to see if we received responses Victoria Peak conquered from the second group – but by the Turtle Inn staff once no reply! We thought they again. In bed at 7 p.m. may have turned back so we started our descent. Right at We left at 6 a.m. heading the climbing rope is where downhill – it is a long way we all met up, so we were down pushing your toes to still able to take a group the front of your shoes ― very uncomfortable – on top shot at the top all together. of it I ran down parts with Well done to all – we made Freddy ― who was clearly it! Special recognition as challenging me and nerwell to Evelyn Nerio who vously looked back every was the second female staff five seconds to make sure I member to make it to the did not pass him. The rushtop. ing caused me to slip on a root and I sprained my anKevin decided to wrap the kle pretty badly, but adrenaTurtle Inn flag around his line keeps you going. waist accompanied by a flower behind his ear and Freddy and I arrived at the the photoshoot started - pic- welcome center at 10:30 tures have been x-rated! a.m. Shoes off and a shower.
swelling and I could hardly stand on it. Oh well …
Evelyn applied lipstick for the hike down ― you may as well look good while sweating. Melvin arrived at 11:30 a.m. to set up a grand grilled chicken lunch with rice and beans along with a cooler full of cold beer ― heavenly! We waited for the others to arrive and soon all started to cross the finish line. Estevan Ash was the lucky one to see a jaguar just two km away from base! No pictures to prove it – but we believe you Ash ! Other wild life seen : Wild turkey, crested quam, laughing falcon, road side hawk, king vulture, quail, black tail indigo, antelope, fer de lance, crown headed mutmut, and scorpions. The last to arrive were Evelyn and Marvin – (Tata1 and Tata 2) at 1:30 p.m. Well done to all ― great times were had and about six toenails and one properly functioning ankle were lost in the battle. Not bad! Next year again? I think I will go on a horse and wait for you guys at Dead Man's Camp! ▪
First six reached down at 19 km base camp called, “Deadman’s Camp” at 12:20 p.m. ready to make a fire and prep for a hearty lunch for all.
Clockwise: Hikers spent two nights sleeping in hammocks, which the group hung under a zinc roof at Dead Man's Camp or KM19. Just before reaching the top, hikers encounter lush walls of orchids, colorful moss and bromeliads. This year was the first time female staff joined the Turtle Inn team on the trek. (MARTIN KREDIET)
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 29
The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 30
PLACENCIA PENINSULA GUIDE
PAID LISTINGS. TO ADVERTISE CALL 523-4045 OR E-MAIL INFO@PLACENCIA.COM
ACCOMMODATIONS South of Airstrip
One World Rentals: Daily, weekly and monthly rentals. Eleven comfortable and immaculate studios and apartments in the heart of Placencia Village (next to the "Rumfish" Restaurant), close to restaurants, shopping, banks as well as the beach. Cable TV, free wifi, fully equipped kitchenette, private bathroom, fully screened porch, hammocks. Contact Swiss Owner Claudia Hardegger at 523-3103 or 620-9975. email oneworldplacencia@ yahoo.com. Major credit cards accepted.. Rates from 129 BZD incl. Taxes. 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 011-501-523-3112, E-mail: Ranguana@btl.net website: www.ranguanabelize.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: Green Parrot Beach Houses: Maya Beach: 6 mahogany beach houses, loft bed-
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
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
rooms, 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
Habanero Mexican Restaurant & Bar @ Robert’s Grove: Lagoon side
Miller’s Landing: Natural Belizean cabanas, lush tropical gardens, clean secluded beach, pool & thatch bar, P. 523-3010 or millersplacencia@yahoo.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.
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: 523-3473
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.
BREEZE HEALTH EMERGENCY NUMBERS
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!
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. 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. Whipray Caye Lodge: See accommodation for info about our restaurant and bar.
CHEERS - Peninsula Bars Barefoot Bar: Open every day 11 am to midnight. Located on the beach. Live Music Wed, Fri & Sat at 5 pm & Sun at noon. Happy Hour 5 -6 pm. Largest drink menu around. Creative lunch & dinner specials. Known for 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
COFFEE Above Grounds Coffee: P. 634 3212. Shaded Cool Spot. Supporting Small Inde-
pendent 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, 7 a.m. - noon.
Belize Emergency Response Team: 223-3292 Placencia Medical Center: 503-3326
Seine Bight Medical Center: 523-3328 Independence Medical Center: 523-2167
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The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2015 ‖ Page 31
PLACENCIA PENINSULA GUIDE
PAID LISTINGS. TO ADVERTISE CALL 523-4045 OR E-MAIL INFO@PLACENCIA.COM
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.
Lola’s Art Gallery: Located in Seine Bight Village 1 ½ miles north of the Placencia Airstrip. Look for our sign near the football field south of the village. The peninsula’s first art gallery with original Belizean art by Lola. 8am-6pm. 523-3342 & 601-1913
Wallen’s Market: Serving Placencia with fresh produce, dry goods, & specialty
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!
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.
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.
TOUR PROVIDERS:
WEDDING PLANNING:
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
Splash Dive Center: Selected Tour Operator of the Year by the Belize Tourism
Robert’s Grove Beach Resort: Located on the Placencia Peninsula, a romantic offthe-beaten-path destination on the southern coast. Robert’s Grove is an intimate five-star 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
FREE COMMUNITY LISTINGS: Churches: 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
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.
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
Trip N Travel: Saltwater & Jungle Adventures. P. 523-3205 Email: lgodfrey@btl.
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
net. Located on Main Street & Bruk Pat in Placencia Office Supply.
SERVICES
Seventh Day Adventists: Services Fridays at sunset; Saturdays 9:00 a.m. Lay ministers. U. Torres - Tel# 503 2270
Tony’s Gym/Belize Fit: We have a small CrossFit Gym. By appointment only.
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: Coldwell Banker Southern Belize Realty: We are a full service real estate agency and specialize in all property types in Belize. Looking to buy, sell, invest or retire abroad? Our highly experienced team is ready to assist you with every step. Give us a call at 523-3500 or visit our website at http://www.coldwellbankerbelize.com . 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 drop into our office for a free map of Belize, and no obligation answers to all your real estate questions. We're located in the heart of the village, next door to Tutti Frutti ice cream. P. 672-9000 or www.belizeproperty.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.
BREEZE POLICE EMERGENCYNUMBERS
Placencia Church: A Real Church for Real People - Come as you are! Bible-based fellowship learning, worshiping and following Christ. We meet Sundays at 10:30am. Call 634-2668 or visit “Placencia Church” on Facebook for this week’s location.
St. John’s Memorial: Placencia Anglican (Episcopal) Church: Sunday services at 8:00 a.m. . Addiction Support: ALCOHOLIC ANOYMOUS /Placencia Rule 62 Group: Friday, 5:30 p.m. & Sunday at 9:30 a.m. at Placencia Village Health Center; P. Jackie @ 620-2848; Wednesday @ 12:30 p.m. @ yellow house in Seine Bight. P. Steve @ 610-1399. $10 Lunch. PLACENCIA NAR-ANON/ Narcotics Anon Family Groups: For those affected by someone else’s addiction. Placencia Health Ctr. Saturday at 5:45 p.m. P. Lyra @ 664-8699 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 Taxi & Delivery Services: Mr. Clark: 621-1031 Noel: 600-6047 Walter: 622-3194 Bailey: 636-7863 Keylone: 668-9395
Placencia Police Station: 911 or 503-3142 Seine Bight Police Station: 911 or 503-3148
Transport Services: De Express Boat: P. 626-8835. Departs Placencia Municipal Pier - 9:30 a.m. Arrives Big 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. 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: 7 a.m.; 12:45 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. Sundays: 6:15 a.m.; 12:45 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 Friday: 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.
Mr. Linarez: 607-2518 Liria: 623-4836 Choko: 632-0980 Brittney Gibson Delivery: 651-8393
Maya Beach Police Station: 911 or 634-7051 Placencia Tourism Police: 911 or 503-3181