Now see The Placencia Breeze in pdf format!
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Now see The Placencia Breeze in pdf format!
The Placencia Breeze A Publication of the Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association www.placencia.com or www.placenciabreeze.com March 2010 School Project Continues! By Elysia Dial In February Wild Orchid Properties, seeing the need for the completion of the St. John’s Memorial School expansion project, generously donated $50,000 and that along with the Placencia Land Reclamation Project’s donation of $25,000 helped to get the figurative “ball rolling” again. When the project came to a halt initially the stairways to the second level had been completed and the exterior walls were up. The project still had a long way to go. With Wild Orchid’s help work quickly resumed. Richard “Charo” Westby, organized the crew that is doing the work on the school and has been on site most days making sure the project is moving along on schedule. Conduits have been installed throughout the upper level, the center wall has been put up, and beams for the roof have been cast. Wayne Williams, the government engineer working on the reservoir at the Seine Bight Water Tower, loaned the plywood, form boards and bush sticks from his project to the school and Jenny Wesby and the crew from MNM Hardware here in Placencia helped to transport the materials from Seine Bight to the school. The form boards are being put in and by the end March the roof should be completed. Another phase of the expansion project was the moving of the school’s library to a new spot on the school grounds. Deb Vernon, Stephanie Wandke, Alyson Pohlman, Bonnie Titone, Billie Jo Johnson, and Megan Phares came out to pack up all the books that were in the library and the children of Standard V & VI moved the boxes. Cassie Dial kindly lent her truck to move all the boxes to the downstairs of Kristine Small’s house, which helped to speed up the process. Red Moon Development came in, hoisted up the library and then using their tractor the work crew maneuvered the library to its new location which is in front of the principal’s house. Not only did they move it, they raised it high enough to have a downstairs put underneath it and extended the stairs to accommodate the new height. Volunteers have started reorganizing the library and library sessions should resume after the Easter holiday break. And because things really seem to be on a roll there is yet another What’s Inside Rotary Club of Placencia………………………………...…..…….………..…….pg 2 What’s Happening In Town?!………………….……………..…………………...pg 3 Dates You Need To Know!…….……….……………………………..…..….…...pg 4 Student of The Month………………………………………...…………………...…...pg 4 Heritage Tourism Training For Trainers………………..……….………………...pg 5 Children’s Artwork Calendar 2010…..……………………….…………………...pg 5 BETEX 2010……………………………..……………………………………….pg 7 The Garifuna Collective…………………………………………………………..pg 8 BTB Launches new Belize Specialist Program……….......……………………..pg 10 Whale Shark……………………………………………………………………...pg 10 Spotlight on Ranguana Lodge…………………………………………………...pg 13 The Best Antique is an old Friend…………………………………………...…..pg 14 Placencia BTIA Members…….. ….……………..…..…...……..........……pg 15 & 18 Placencia Village Map……………………………………………………..pg 16 & 17 Placencia Sanitation Company Re-Assessed Garbage Rates….………..………..pg 19 North Valley Magazine visit Belize….……..….…………………….…………..pg 19 Make like a Bike & Tone your Mid Section……………………………………..pg 20 Spotlight on Seahorse Dive Shop……..…….……...…………………………….pg 20 Your Belizean Breakfast………...…………………...……….…….……………pg 21 Combating Climate change with Blue Carbon sink…….…………………...…..pg 22 Chinese “ Belize Guide & Map” Travel Guide Launched in Taiwan………..…..pg 23 Frequently asked Questions on S.I. No 115 of 2009……………………………..pg25 Your child Caffeine intake: How much is too much?............................................pg 26 Blogger Travel Writer & Photographer in Belize………………………...……...pg 26 Listing Ads…………………………………..………...…………..………….pg 28-29 Continued work on St. John’s Memorial School. Photo by David Vernon phase to talk about! Dean Ferrell, of the Placencia Football Club in conjunction with Turtle Inn, approached the school to find out how they could help out with the school. A project that was identified immediately was repairs and renovations to the school’s bathrooms. Turtle Inn’s work crew came in and replaced all the doors and door frames, painted inside and out, repaired a toilet that was not working properly, and fixed and reinforced the sinks. The entire school compound has really been a hive of activity! It is really nice to see such an outpouring of support for Placencia’s school. We thank everyone that has helped us to get as far as we have to date! Your help has made a tremendous difference in the conditions at St. John’s Memorial School. For more information about this project contact or to find out how you can help please call David Vernon – 600-6044 and Rodney Griffith @ St. John’s – 523-3178. From the Chairman’s Desk: PLACENCIA VILLAGE COUNCIL ELECTIONS DATE: APRIL 18TH 2010, TO BE HELD AT THE PLACENCIA COMMUNITY CENTER!!!!!!! COME ON OUT AND CAST YOUR VOTE!!!!!!! ♦ Public meeting to be held concerning upcoming Village Council elections. The Meeting will be held on Saturday March 20th, at 6:00 pm at The Placencia Village Community Center. ♦ Placencia Village Council upcoming Public Meetings are scheduled for the following dates; Wednesday, March 31st 2010 starting at 6:00 pm and April 8th 2010 at 6:00 pm both meetings to be held at The Placencia Basketball Court. Continued on pg 2 The Placencia Breeze—March 2010- Page 2 ROTARY CLUB OF PLACENCIA NEWS The past month featured two successful fund raisers for the Rotary Club of Placencia, however, the success was tempered by sadness as we noted the passing of one of our newest Club members in a tragic accident. As several members of our Club were attending the District Conference in Belize City, word was received that Carl Laws, a recent member transfer from Maine, was involved in a motorcycle accident on the Peninsula Road resulting in his death. Carl had become very involved in the activities of our Club, including being elected Treasurer for the 2010-2011 Rotary year, and was a Paul Harris Fellow (an award signifying significant financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation). Carl will be missed by all. AUCTION The Rotary Club of Placencia’s second annual auction was held February 13 at the Arts Festival. Numerous donated items were auctioned off in sometimes spirited bidding under the skilled direction of Auctioneer Bill Butcher from the Rotary Club of San Ignacio. The prizes, donors, and successful bidders were: French Connection – Dinner for 2 won by Terry Broker Lamps donated by Bill Butcher won by Lucky Miramar – 2 Night Stay + D’Tatch – Dinner for 2 won by Terry Broker Laru Beya – 1 Night Stay + Danube - $50 Gift Certificate won by Lucky Los Porticos – 2 Night Stay + Paradise – Dinner for 2 + ZTouch – Massage & Facial won by Lou Decked Out House – 2 Night Stay + 4 Hour Canoe Rental + Wendy’s – Dinner for 2 won by Zach & Allie SEA – Trip for 10 to Laughing Bird Caye won by Lucky Moorings – Sunset Sail with Dinner for 4 won by Ron Steele Splash Dive – Scuba Lesson won by Lou Auto Medic – 1 Hour of Service + Dorans AC Service + Patricia Celenza – 1 Hour Massage won by Wayne Warnica Bill Butcher (Aguada) – Lodging won by Linda & Charlie and Package won by Sandra Steele Hofius – Wheelbarrow, Garden Hose and Sprayer won by Miss Sonja Chabil Mar – Large Painting won by Greg & Wanda Chabil Mar – Small Painting won by Zach & Allie Chabil Mar – Slate Carving won by Terry Broker Lola – Painting, Print and Wood Painting winner unknown Wallen’s – Gift Certificate + Blue Crab – 1 Box Each of Dark and Milk Chocolate + Joe Carlson – Cutting Board won by Linda & Charlie Sea Horse – Diving or Snorkeling for 2 + Tutti Frutti – Gift Certificate won by Ron Steele Joy Tours – Snorkeling for 2 + Tutti Frutti – Gift Certificate won by Lou Victoria House – 2 Night Stay + Tropic Air - Round Trip Air to Ambergris Caye from Placencia won by Lucky Pine Lumber – Picnic Table + Cardelli’s Shrimp Farm – 5 Lb. Box of Shrimp + Rumfish – Bottle of Wine + Running W – Gift Certificate won by Linda & Charlie Jaguar Lanes – Bowling, Dinner, Cocktails + Ninna Miller – 1 Hour Massage won by Sandra Steele Cozy Corner – Dinner for 2 + Secret Garden – Gift Certificate + Singing Sands – Dinner Gift Certificate winner unknown Placencia Bazaar – Ceramic Fish winner unknown MnM Hardware – Margarita Set won by Miramar Painting won by Nettie Vernon In addition to the Auction Items, Muzamanzie Photo (photo package ), Belize Buy/Sell (ad), Caribbean Cabinet and Furniture (2 cutting boards), Cardelli’s Shrimp Farm (mirror), Peninsula Distributors (10 gallons butane), Prosser Fertilizer (sprayer), and Greg & Wanda (bottle of rum) donated prizes that were raffled off. Also, the winner was drawn for our big raffle for an all expenses paid trip to Belize. The winner is Michael Porter of Vancouver Canada. The evening resulted in a significant amount of money being raised that will go to the Peninsula Volunteer Fire Department and the Schools. We wish to thank all who donated and all who participated with special thanks to our Auctioneer Bill Butcher and Dr. Wayne Warnica for selling many tickets in Canada for our trip raffle. BINGO On February 20, the Rotary Club of Placencia Continued on pg 4 From the Chairman’s Desk ….. Continued from pg 1 UPDATE ♦ Placencia Village By-laws (final- stage) to be completed in one month. ♦ Sustainable Tourism Project for Placencia /Main Pier & Plaza, presently in feasibility study phase. Moving forward; Projected cost -$1.3 M. U.S. ♦ Red Moon land sale $400,000.00 BZE with Placencia Village Council completed. ♦ Placencia road upgrade. Moving forward; ♦ Crimson Park Development (190 Lots) Phase 1 of 3 land fill completed. Phase 2 land fill development currently under way. ♦ $25, 000.00 released by the Placencia Lots Committee /Village Council to St. John’s Memorial Anglican School towards completion of 2nd floor classrooms. Construction currently underway. ♦ Moving forward on the Placencia Street Signs project urging all Villagers to use their street/ walkway name for address. House number system to be implemented shortly. ♦ Village’s main Sidewalk repairs in progress. ♦ Tall Fence being erected at the Placencia Airstrip to preserve Placencia Sanitation Company’s equipments and improve appearance of area. ♦ Cleanup campaign for Easter Weekend underway. ♦ Easter weekend events: Two concerts/International Artists (Movado & Jah Cure). WHALE SHARK DIVING OR SNORKELING WITH SPLASH DIVE SHOP The pristine waters of Southern Belize are home of the gentle giants " The Whale Sharks" during March, April, May and June. JOIN US IN THE UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE IN THE GLADDEN SPIT WITH THE WHALE SHARKS THE LARGEST FISH IN THE WORLD. Also available: Scuba Diving, Fishing, Snorkeling, River Tours Mayan Ruins, Jaguar Reserve, Kayaks, and much more... For more info. visit SPLASH DIVE SHOP or call Patty @ 523-3058, 523-3080 or 620-6649 or Email: [email protected] Placencia Humane Society, Ltd. MEMBERSHIP Dedicated to animal care and protection Date: Name Address State City ZIP Tele- Country E-Mail Student BZ$10/yr Additional donation Individual BZ$20/yr BZ$ Please make checks payable to: Placencia Humane Society Placencia Post Office Placencia, Belize Central America Family(2-5) BZ$30/yr Patron BZ$100/yr Total amount Sponsor BZ$1000 Lifetime BZ$ Or cash or checks may be dropped off at the Placencia Tourism Center ¨ I want to volunteer, please contact me ¨ I want to donate animal care products, please contact me. The Placencia Breeze - March 2010- Page 3 What’s Happening In Town?! Starting March 1st Wallen’s Market now opens from 7 am straight through to 6pm Monday to Saturday. And from 8am to 12 Noon on Sundays. Tony’s Gym is now open! Located just south of the Placencia Airstrip at Live Oak Plaza Tony’s Gym offers Personal Training, Group Training, Spin Bikes, Free Weights, Kettle Bells, Thai Stretch Class, Beach Boot Camp, & Stand Up Paddle Board Core Work Out! Call 523-3084 for more information. Bella Yoga, located upstairs of Wendy’s Restaurant, is now open and offering several classes throughout the day all week long! Call 662-4188 or email [email protected] Every…. Monday Placencia Hotel & Residences- a division of Zeboz Margarita Mondays - 5 to 7 pm. Complimentary snacks and appetizers served at the bar. Over 10 different margaritas available plus regular bar menu. ♦ Michelo’s Belgian Café 11am: overview of touristic activities in Placencia in English, presentación de actividades turísticas en Placencia en español, Darstellung der touristischen Tätigkeiten in Placencia auf Deutsch, revue des activités touristiques à Placencia en français, overzicht van toeristische activiteiten in Placencia in het Nederlands ♦ Tuesday ♦ D’Eclipse Entertainment Club- Talent Night. Come show off your talent! ♦ Rotary Club of Placencia - Meets at Yoli’s Bar at 12:30 pm. ♦ Sunova Beach Gift Shop - Sunova Beach Gift Shop 10% TUESDAYS! Get 10% off most items every Tuesday!. ♦ Habanero’s Restaurant- Mexican Buffet. 7pm to 9pm. Dinner pick up call 523-3565. Wednesday D’Eclipse Entertainment Club - Soca Carnival Night with Karaoke, Limbo & Free Jell-O Shots! ♦ J-Byrd's Bar - Karaoke starting at 8 pm!!!!! ♦ Tipsy Tuna - Garifuna Drumming at our seaside bar, 69 pm Poolside Bar. Experience Garifuna singers, musicians and dancers • Siripohn Thai Food– every Friday Thai food for sale by Siripohn, menu changes every week. Located on the main road, two story house beside the grave yard. • Singing Sands Inn - Martini Night. All Martinis 25% off! We have a wide selection of flavors to taste including our Melon Martini or decadent Chocolate Martini. ♦ The Placencia Hotel - Karaoke starting at 8 pm!!! ♦ Michelo’s Belgian Café 1pm: bridge card players gathering ♦ Tipsy Tuna - Live band, THE REJECTS at our seaside bar, 7pm-Midnight. Saturday ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Sunday D’Eclipse Entertainment Club - Outdoor Sports Volleyball and Basketball ♦ Robert's Grove Seaside Restaurant features US Prime Rib Roast and Yorkshire Pudding along with its regular menu and daily specials. 6- 10 pm. For reservations call 523-3565 ♦ Tipsy Tuna - Horseshoes. Starts at 3pm. Winner receives $50 cash. ♦ Yoli’s Bar & Grill - 4 pm Placencia’s Famous Ring Game!!! ♦ Everyday ♦ ♦ Thursday "Thirsty Thursday" at The Crows Nest Bar & Grill, Happy Hour 5pm - 7pm - local beer & rum $3 & complementary snacks. ♦ D’Eclipse Entertainment Club- Latino Night (Free Cherry bomb)! ♦ J-Byrd's Bar hosts organized dart competition with great prizes starting 8:30 pm. ♦ Tipsy Tuna - Live music with Rudy at our seaside bar, 6-9 pm. Karaoke follows in our indoor bar 9pm - 2 am with FREE Jell-O Shots and 2 for 1 Rum Punch for Ladies . ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Friday D’Eclipse Entertainment Club T.G.I.F (Thank God It’s Friday) Bashment with D.J. Flames. Cover charge. ♦ Green Parrot - Beach BBQ, served on the Patio, features ribs, chicken & seafood (monster shrimp when available), plus all the trimmings. Reservation: 5232488. • Robert’s Grove 6 - 7 pm Happy Hour at the Inn’s ♦ Happy Hour at The Crows Nest Cafe Bar & Grill 5pm - 7pm - local beer & rum $3 & complementary snacks. Also Look out for announcements for live music events on select Saturdays. D’Eclipse Entertainment Club - Live Music alongside D.J. Flames Cover charge. Robert’s Grove - Poolside BBQ Buffet at 7 pm with local music. For reservations call 523-3565. Singing Sands Inn - Margarita Night! Try our selection of flavored Margaritas for only $10. Our Mango Margarita made with fresh mango and the Cherry Coco Margarita are two favorites. Tipsy Tuna - Live band, INNER VIBRATIONS at our seaside bar, 7pm - Midnight ♦ D’Eclipse Entertainment Club- Happy Hour 5-7 pm (Local mix drinks) DeTatch Seafood Beach Bar & Grill $4.00 rum punch all day, everyday. On the beach - See you there!!! Mangos - Happy Hour 5 - 6 P.M. $4 Belikins & $4 rum drinks. Maya Beach Bistro Happy Hour 2 -5pm with halfprice appetizer menu and daily $5 bar snack specials. Also $4 Belikin and $4 local rum. Take the bus from Placencia at 1:30 pm, depart Maya Beach on the bus at 5. Closed Mondays. 520-8040 Pickled Parrot Bar & Grill -Ten Dolla’ Lunch Special noon to 2 p.m., Happy Hour 5 - 6 pm. Rum Drinks from $3 & up. The Placencia Hotel & Residences- a division of Zeboz - Happy Hour from 5 pm - 6 pm everyday. Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar - Happy Hour 7 - 8 pm (except Sundays) Singing Sands Inn Happy Hour 3 to 6 PM. Belikin and local rum along with a discounted price and appetizer menu. Closed on Tuesdays. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected]. Tipsy Tuna - Happy Hour 5-7pm at our seaside bar with $2 off any local rum drink and free banana chips. The Placencia Breeze –March 2010- Page 4 Dates You Need To Know ! March 1st - Ben Bol’s Birthday March 3rd - Wendy Westby, Lance McKenzie & Jahne Popper’s Birthday March 4th - Clint Villanueva’s Birthday March 7th - Louis Leslie’s Birthday March 8th - Keon “Gas” Leslie’s & Cindy Lozano’s Birthday Baron Bliss Day Observed March 9th - Baron Bliss Day , Barbara Andrews , Courtney Brown, Louis Godfrey, & Stajah Young’s Birthday March 11th - Anthony Eiley’s Birthday March 12th - Mark “Bebe” Tucker’s Birthday March 14th - Andrea Villanueva & Ashton Leslie & Jenelly Brown Birthday March 16th - Vance Cabral’s Birthday March 18th - Marissa Godfrey’s Birthday March 24th - Agapita Pop’s Birthday March 25th - Olivia McKenzie & Denise William’s Birthday March 29th - Khimar Spence’s Birthday ST. JOHN’S STUDENT OF THE MONTH FEBRUARY 2010 Front Row: Veronica Leslie - Standard I, Izak Leslie- Infant II & Chole Lopez– Infant I. Middle Row: Kodye Ramclam - Standard IV, Ayana Hernandez - Standard II, & Mariah Ramclam - Standard II. Top Row: Elizabeth Faux- Standard VI & Missing: James Delorme- Standard V. Rotary Club of Placencia News - cont. from pg 2 once again held a Bingo game at the Paradise. As was the case with the first game held in January, the event was well attended and everyone enjoyed the evening. Since this is a relatively new fund raising idea for our Club, we are still trying different games and will rely on feedback from the players as to what will be done for future games. The next Bingo night has not been scheduled at this time, so, please watch the cable TV access channel, listen to LOVEFM, and watch for flyers around the Village for the date and time of the next Bingo night. We wish to thank, once again, Alan and Janet of the Paradise Resort for providing the venue. BOOKS After nearly a year of e-mails and other contacts, a shipment of books provided by the Rotary B.I.G. organization arrived in Placencia. These books are presently being sorted and catalogued for the Library at St. John’s Memorial School in Placencia and will soon be available to the children. Thanks go out to Wanda Stakutis for all of her hard work obtaining these books, Rotary B.I.G. for the donation of the books, the Parole Rotary Club of Annapolis, Maryland for paying the shipping costs, Rotarian Ellis Flowers for providing brokerage services and Harald and Carl Wallen for bringing the books to Placencia in one of the Wallens’ trucks. DISTRICT CONFERENCE Every year, Rotary holds a District Conference in the country of the current District Governor. This year’s District Governor is Dr. Marcelo Coyi and the conference and the conference was held in Belize City the last weekend in February. The Rotary Club of Placencia was represented by Harald Wallen, Sandra Johnson, Lydia Villanueva, Eugenie Adderly Gabourel, Bob Edmunds, and Sandra Steele. The attendees met with members from other Clubs in our District (District 4250 which is comprised of Belize, Guatemala and Honduras) for social activities, seminars and conferences to discuss issues relating to our District including Rotary International’s Future Vision pilot project which will evaluate a new funding mechanism for Rotary Grants. All who attended reported that the conference was enjoyable and that they came away with valuable information that should help our Club function more effectively. UPCOMING EVENTS As previously mentioned, plans are being made for more Bingo nights with the idea that Bingo may be scheduled on a regular basis. Also, Club members are assisting the Peninsula Volunteer Fire Department with the annual Flaming Heart Ball scheduled to be held on March 6 and planning will begin for Lobsterfest, which will feature, as always, our infamous Duck Race. News on all events will be available on the cable TV public access channel, on LOVEFM (with thanks, as always, to Rene Villanueva), on flyers posted around the Village, or from any Rotarian. The Placencia Breeze March 2010- Page 5 Heritage Tourism Training For Trainers According to the International Task Force on Sustainable Tourism Development, tourism is one of the largest industries and heritage tourism is its most rapidly growing international sector. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), Rainforest Alliance (RA), and the Central American Integration System (SICA) have developed the project “Promoting Heritage-Based Tourism: Preserving Today’s Treasures for Tomorrow’s Generations”. This regional project is aimed at improving the human resource capacity of tourism stakeholders through training seminars focused on the ability to deliver on heritage tourism. Late last year, three delegates from Belize were invited to a training of training workshop in Heredia Costa Rica. Representing Belize were Maria Vega, Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), Raymond Mossiah, Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and Abil Casteneda, International Center for Responsible Tourism-Belize (ICRT). Upon returning to Belize, these delegates were tasked with the responsibility to train trainers in heritage tourism. On February 22nd, the BTB, the ICRT and the BTIA coordinated a “Train the Trainers” workshop in Heritage Tourism for 34 trainers from all over the country. The workshop, hosted at the Coastal Zone Management Authority training room, had representation from non-governmental organizations, government departments, academia, private sector and also included freelance trainers. With the training received, it is envisioned that the trainers will be better equipped to provide information to trainees in four key areas: Awareness, Appreciation, Enjoyment and Conservation of Heritage. Belize can make significant inroads in this market segment with the natural and cultural abundance of the Belize tourism product. With a well trained and equipped tourism labor force, Belize can amplify the visitor experience, which is critical since word of mouth has proven to be one of Belize’s biggest marketing tool. Rainforest Alliance has developed a user-friendly toolkit to support the capacity building seminar. This multimedia toolkit is based on participatory techniques to ensure that future trainers will be able to disseminate the knowledge and further enhance uptake of sustainable tourism development in Central America. Raymond Mossiah of BTB, Maria Vega of the BTIA and Abil Castaneda, ICRT presented at the workshop. SICA provided funding for this workshop as it was an extension of a similar training workshop hosted in Costa Rica in 2009, and is being replicated throughout Central America. For more information on events taking place in Belize’s tourism industry, please contact the Marketing Department at the Belize Tourism Board at 227-2420, via email: [email protected] or visit our website www.belizetourism.org Rotary Club of Placencia News - cont. from previous page OUR CLUB The Rotary Club of Placencia currently consists of 18 members working together to make a difference in our community. We actively encourage those who care about their community and who wish to give something back to join us in our work. We appreciate the support we receive and will continue to do our best to get things done. Anyone who is interested in being involved is asked to attend one of our meetings (Tuesdays at 12:30 PM at Yoli’s), visit our web site at www.rotaryclubofplacencia.org, or speak to any Rotarian. This is your community, please help us to make it the best it can be. CHILDREN'S ARTWORK CALENDARS 2010 Just a progress report about the children's artwork calendars and the money that we raised. Earlier this month the kids handed over a check for $1200 to Mr Griffth. This was the money that we raised with their artwork, and by raffling some donated rings. Then we went to the pre-school, with Ana, Carlos, Eli, Ashley and Charles to give a check of $500, which they raised by a silent auction of their Photo by Ron Spillman artwork. With special thanks to Ana for donating so many pieces. It's great to see the older kids helping the younger ones. As soon as the festival was over, I already had kids asking when the next workshop was. Anyone having time on their hands even while visiting can go to the school, and do artwork, either at the school, or after school. Any materials, or funds can be sent to Principal Griffith at St John's Memorial School, or to Head Teacher of the Preschool, Ms Carla Ramclam at St. John's Memorial Preschool, Placencia, Stann Creek District, Belize. Please label all packages Photo by Ron Spillman educational supplies, as otherwise there is a large duty to be paid. Anyone wanting to buy a 2010, or 2011 artwork calendar done and signed by the kids, please go to The Beach Bazaar next to the Scotia Bank. "HELP OUR KID'S BE CREATIVE!" The Placencia Breeze –March 2010-Page 6 A world class 9.83 acre marina with full service fee-simple slips surrounded by pristine single and multi-residential housing on half acre and larger lots. On this 60 acre bayside development that boasts spectacular views of mountains and sunsets there will be commercial opportunities for a gallery, boutiques, cafes, professional offices, fine dining, international banking... Landscaping and roads are all professionally designed together with the entire project which is exceptionally unique and artfully done by the successful developer and her design team “Platinum”, known for the highly acclaimed “Chabil Mar Villas” amongst others. ~ Early Bird Specials ~ 10 ONLY - 75 x 100 - CANAL FRONT LOTS Under $100,000 US OR First Five Four 1/2 acre lots come w/ a 40 ft. slip. DON’T DELAY - JOIN “THE CLUB” TODAY It is time to secure residential or commercial space for the open minded just 2/3minutes to Placencia village. Titles have already been issued to some of the first buyers! House plans available for viewing. Phone Dianne (501) 604 5099 or email [email protected] Phone Hannah (501) 610 0327 or [email protected] www.peninsulaclubbelize.com The Placencia Breeze –March 2010-Page 7 Supplier Update Dear Belize Tourism Suppliers, Both local supplier registrations and international trade registrations are coming in steadily. Spaces are limited. Be sure to reserve your space as early as possible. BETEX is the only travel show dedicated specifically to Belize. Register today for BZ$750.00 and secure your space at Belize's most important tourism event. event. All expenses during the expedition (accommodations, meals, transfers etc.) will be taken care of by BETEX, and Hosts will be recognized publicly for their voluntary contribution to this important event. Go to www.betex.bz to find out more! We look forward to having you on board! Submit Pre & Post Tours Offers will be posted on the BETEX website WOULD YOU LIKE TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE PLACENCIA BREEZE? After selecting a BETEX expedition, Trade Attendees can take advantage of pre- and post- tours valid one week prior to the event, and one week following the event. The Breeze is now offering an annual mailing subscription! Within the country of Belize: $20.00Bze per year (12 Issues) Within the US & Canada: $30.00Bze ($15.00 US) per year (12 Issues) *Price includes Shipping and Handling* Offers can only be submitted by registered Suppliers, and it is strictly prohibited for Suppliers to host trade participants during the days of the event, outside of their pre-arranged itineraries (June 23 - 27). (PLEASE PRINT) Become an Expedition Sponsor Name: Showcase your property or service at BETEX BETEX offers registered suppliers the opportunity for additional exposure by allowing hotels, restaurants and tour operators to provide complimentary services on the BETEX itineraries. If you are interested in becoming an "Expedition Sponsor" by providing complimentary accommodations, meals, transfers or tours, please email us at [email protected]. Become a Group Host _________________________________________________ Mail address: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Email address _________________________________________________ Tour Guides are encouraged to participate!!! BETEX is looking for nine experienced, dynamic tourism professionals to accompany the groups over the five days of BETEX. We are looking for those with strong hospitality skills, experience in group management and knowledge of Belize. Hosts will greet their groups upon arrival on June 23, and take care of them until departure on June 28. A selection process will take place in April, and those interested may email us at [email protected]. Thorough orientation sessions will be held for all hosts prior to the Form of Payment:______________ The Placencia Breeze Placencia Tourism (Cash or Check ONLY) Center Checks should be payable to the Pt. Placencia PLACENCIA TOURISM CENTER Please mail your subscription and pay- Stann Creek District ment to: Belize, Central America Wendy’s Restaurant & Bar On the Main Street in downtown Placencia Open Daily 7:00 am til 9:30 pm Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Patio Dining Outside & A/C Dining Inside Seating for 100 ~ Catering available for private events Phone 523-3335 & email [email protected] Visa & MasterCard Accepted “Our best meal in Belize is at Wendy's Restaurant…..” - Travel + Leisure Magazine Feb 2006 The Placencia Breeze –March 2010- Page 8 The Garifuna Collective featuring Umalali Women Singers perform at 2010 Winter Olympics The Garifuna Collective and the Umalali Singers returned to Belize today after a two-week North American tour that included a performance at the Cultural Olympiad, part of the official festivities for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, Canada. The tour also included shows in Seattle, Washington, San Diego and Chico, California, as well as New Hampshire. Fronting the Collective once again were vocalists Desiree Diego, Sofia Blanco, Marcella Torres. The women were accompanied on stage by musicians Joshua Arana, Denmark Flores, Sam Harris, Wilton Lewis and Al Ovando . This was the Collective's first return to North America since their extremely successful summer tour in 2009. However, unlike the open-air festivals that welcomed the collective last summer, this tour saw the Collective performing in "soft seat" theatre environments. Playing before a seated audience may have been a different experience for the Collective, but non the less by the end of the shows concert goers were on their feet, dancing to the music. According to Collective engineer/musician, Al Ovando, who served as the road manager on this tour, "We have come a long way and every tour brings a new experience. Just as audiences learn about our music and culture, we also learn from each performance and we get better every time". Producer, Ivan Duran, of Stonetree Records continues, "This group is very original in the way they present Garifuna music to the world. Nobody sounds like them. They continue to define contemporary roots music and they keep reaching new audiences every year." Some of the members have been playing together for over 10 years, having toured the world with late Belizean music icon Andy Palacio. The band's repertoire is comprised of Garifuna songs from the highly acclaimed Watina and Umalali albums, as well as several new arrangements of traditional songs. The Garifuna Collective continues to be Belize's most recognized international music ambassadors. To date they have performed in over 20 countries on 3 continents. They are working on a new album at the Stonetree studios in Benque Viejo and are scheduled to tour Mexico in April. They will also perform in several European countries this July. For more information Ivan Duran at 610-5152 or interviews Umalali Women Singers please contact: Placencia Humane Society February Clinic www. placencia-pets.org When Saturday March 20th Sunday March 21st Where Placencia Community Center Hours 9am - 2pm General Clinic Afternoons both days No appt necessary Surgery Morning both day ~ by appt only Call Pat Rarrick @ 610-0522 Spays, Neuters Tooth cleaning Etc House Calls Dress Code Donations And don't forget! No food after midnight before surgery!!! Clinic weekends by appt only Call Pat Rarrick @ 610-0522 Dogs on leashes with collars Cats in carriers Enthusiastically accepted! Donation boxes Placencia Tourism Center, Atlantic Bank, Lost Reef Resort, Wallen’s Market, Tropic Air, & the PHS Clinic each month The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 9 T H E I N N AT R O B E RT ’ S G R O V E Good Times P l a c e n c i a ’s M o s t C o m p l e t e L u x u r y R e s o r t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ March 2010 Placencia, Belize www.robertsgrove.com ROBERT’S GROVE ENTERTAINS For the 2010 Season, through May, The Inn at Robert’s Grove offers its guests and visitors to the Peninsula a variety of culinary and cultural evenings. So kick up your heels and bring along your appetites to enjoy the following special evenings: Saturdays Evenings at 7 pm, the Inn’s chef, Frank DaSilva throws his famous Poolside BBQ Buffet featuring a large selection of fresh seafood, fish, barbecued beef, roast pig, lamb and chicken, salads and desserts. Local entertainment and dancing by reggae band Inner Vibrations. For reservations call 523-3565. Tuesdays, beginning at 7 pm, it’s Mexican Night at Habanero Mexican Café & Bar. Chef Daniel Vasquez prepares a tasty buffet of Mexican specialties, including dishes like Puerco Piccadillo, Chipotle, Garlicky Shrimp, Guacamole, Black Bean Salsa and Cilantro Slaw. Pitchers of Sangria and the best Margaritas in Belize are also available along with wine, beer and brand label and mixed drinks. Wednesdays 6-7 pm, the Peninsula’s resident naturalist, Dave Vernon talks about the reef ecosystem and offers an understanding of the importance for preserving it. His weekly lecture begins with an introduction to the Barrier Reef – how it was formed and how it compares to other types of coral reef systems. He then explores in detail the varied marine life found on Belize’s reef, including types of fish, corals and the many other sea creatures that call our reef home. ROBERT'S GROVE DIVE CENTER AWARDED FIVE STARS BY PADI INTERNATIONAL PADI International has awarded the Robert's Grove Dive Center with 5 Stars, a distinction given to progressive PADI Dive Centers that PADI says, "Excel in providing dive consumers with a full range of diver education programs, equipment selection, and experience opportunities that actively promote aquatic environmental awareness." Additionally, PADI explains, "A PADI 5 Star Dive Center is active in its community presenting a professional image, better than the norm of the marketplace." In addition to its regular daily 2-tank dive trips and certification courses, Robert's Grove also offers the only Nitrox (enriched air) dive program available in southern Belize. For additional information and reservations call the Robert's Grove Dive Center at 523-3565. DAILY TOURS The Inn at Robert's Grove operates all of its own Reef and Rainforest tours and excursions. For the month of March we will be offering the following trips daily. For additional information and reservations, contact the front desk at 523-3565. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Diving/Snorkeling the Reef and Cayes Sport Fishing Monkey River Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve Maya Ruins (Lubaantun & Nim Li Punit) Maya Ruins (Lubaantun) & Cave Swimming (Blue Creek) Horseback Riding Kayaking (South Stann Creek River) THIS MONTH Tuesday Evenings 6:30 pm Habanero Mexican Buffet Wednesday Evenings (after Dec 17) 6:30 pm Thursdays from 6-7 pm, Happy Hour at the Inn’s Poolside Bar is all the happier when experiencing Garifuna culture through the beats of local musicians, singers and dancers from Seine Bight Village. National Tourism Award "HOTEL OF THE YEAR" Awarded to Robert's Grove By The Belize Tourist Board January, 2008 “Belize’s Reef Ecology” lecture by local naturalist, Dave Vernon (complimentary) Thursday Evenings SWEPT AWAY You're Invited PASSOVER SEDER BY THE SEA Saturday Evenings TWO PRIVATELY OWNED ISLANDS Poolside BBQ buffet w/ Local Entertain- For Robert's Grove guests or other visitors to Placencia who wish to enjoy a private island "swept away" experience while exploring Belize, The Inn at Robert's Grove offers all-inclusive packages for overnight stays both at Robert's Caye and its other privately owned island, Ranguana Caye. Sunday Evenings A 6 pm Paella Night at Habanero Mexican Café & Bar (Regular menu available) Tel: (501) 523-3565 Fax: (501) 523-3567 Email: info@rob er tsgrov e.co m Toll Free USA 1-800-565-9757 w w w . r o b e r t s g r o v e . c o m Robert's Grove provides complimentary pick up and return for Seaside & Habanero dinner guests. - 7 pm ment The Inn at Robert's Grove will host its 12th Annual Passover Seder by the Sea on Monday, March 29, at 7 pm. Persons of all faiths are invited. Passover is the traditional festive meal commemorating the Jewish People's Exodus from Egypt and deliverance from slavery. The Passover Seder includes readings and four course feast with wine. For additional information and reservations please call 523-3565. — 6 –7pm Poolside Entertainment w/ Garifuna Drumming D V E R T I S E M E N T — - The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 10 BTB launches new Belize Specialist Program Belize City, Monday February 1st, 2010 –The Belize Tourism Board is pleased to advise of its new Belize Specialist Certification course for travel agents. The BTB-sponsored Belize Specialist course executed under Travel Agent University; an on-line travel education site targeted at travel agency professionals and is linked to “Travel Agent Magazine”. Travel Agent University boasts being the industry’s largest online travel education site and of having graduated more specialists than any other agent education program and for Belize Travel Agent guarantees 4,000 agent graduates. The purpose of the program is to encourage the international trade to become Belize specialists. Through the Belize Specialist program the BTB seeks to develop a comprehensive curriculum for the travel agent community that will cover basic and important aspects of Belize that a travel agent would want and need to know about the country in order to recommend and structure a hassle free vacation, group trip or even a wedding for their clients, and more. The Belize Specialist program will also allow for the Private sector to participate by sending news, videos and offers for program graduates, trade show mentions and listings. The Program is accredited by TAU and successful applicants receive a diploma recognizing them as Belize Specialists. Travel Agent is linked to the BTB’s official website: www.travelbelize.org and www.belizetourism.org , www.belizetraveltrade.org as part of the Travel Trade web site and can also be accessed through the Travel Agent University web site at: www.tauniv.com or www.travelagentccentral.com. As part of the launch the Belize Specialist Program will be featured in the March 15th issue of Travel Agent Magazine, posted on the home page of Caribbean Portal throughout a 12 month period and will create a group of Belize graduates in a social networking site for agents called “Agente Nation”. E-mail blasts, newsletters and ads are already on their way to keep the public and persons involved up to date on our latest most exciting program. For more information on events taking place in Belize’s tourism industry, please contact the Marketing Department at the Belize Tourism Board at 227-2420, via email: [email protected] or visit our website www.belizetourism.org. Whale Shark Rhincodon Typus As the largest fish in the sea, reaching lengths of 40 feet (12 meters) or more, whale sharks have an enormous menu from which to choose. Fortunately for most sea-dwellers—and us!—their favorite meal is plankton. They scoop these tiny plants and animals up, along with any small fish that happen to be around, with their colossal gaping mouths while swimming close to the water's surface. The whale shark, like the world's second largest fish, the basking shark, is a filter feeder. In order to feed, it juts out its formidably sized jaws and sucks in everything in the vicinity. It then shuts its mouth, forcing water to filter out of its gills. Everything that remains becomes the giant shark's dinner. The whale shark's flattened head sports a blunt snout above its mouth with short barbels protruding from its nostrils. Its back and sides are gray to brown with white spots among pale vertical and horizontal stripes, and its belly is white. Its two dorsal fins are set rearward on its body, which ends in a large dual-lobbed caudal fin (or tail). Preferring warm waters, whale sharks populate all tropical seas. They are known to migrate every spring to the continental shelf of the central west coast of Australia. The coral spawning of the area's Ningaloo Reef provides the whale shark with an abundant supply of plankton. Although massive, whale sharks are docile fish and sometimes allow swimmers to hitch a ride. They are currently listed as a vulnerable species; however, they continue to be hunted in parts of Asia, such as Taiwan and the Philippines. Fast Facts Type: Fish Diet: Carnivore Size: 18 to 32.8 ft (5.5 to 10 m) Weight: Average, 20.6 tons (18.7 tonnes) Whale Shark Range Group name: School Protection status: Threatened Size relative to a bus: Did you know? The largest whale shark ever measured was 40 feet (12.2 meters) long; however, the species is thought to grow even bigger. CALL BOB RODGERS U. S. P. T.A 626-4015 Court Time — Lessons — Pro Shop Don’t Miss the Scotia Bank Placencia Barbecue Sale ♦ Date: March 27, 2010 ♦ Time: 12 pm ♦ Price: $9.00 Pork or $8.00 Chicken It's to raise funds for the upcoming school year scholarships. Tickets can be bought from any Scotia Staff. The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 11 MARETHA MCCULLOCK & STEVE CHRISTENSEN SEINE BIGHT VILLAGE PHONE# 501-523-3555 FAX# 501-523-3553 EMAIL: [email protected] AGENTS FOR INSUR ANCE CORPORATION OF BELIZE LTD. “Making a Positive Difference in a Changing Belize” Home owners Insurance Commercial Property Insurance Motor Vehicle Insurance Marine Cargo Insurance Marine Liability Insurance Tour Operators Insurance Other Liability Insurance OPENING HOURS MONDAY – FRIDAY 7:30 AM TO 5 PM SATURDAY 7:30 TO 12:00PM ALSO AGENT FOR: SEND MONEY COUNTRYWIDE! Placencia Corozal Town Corozal Boarder Orangewalk Ladyville Belize City Belmopan San Ignacio Dangriga Independence Punta Gorda The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 12 Placencia Peninsula Maps From North of Placencia Airstrip to The Plantation From Placencia Water Tower to Airstrip D’eclipse Entertainment Club Platinum Designs Lost Reef Resort Beachfront Suites Trop lan a Is M ay ir ic A r d Ai The Placencia Hotel & Residences RFG Insurance Agent The Placencia Tennis Traveling north to Maya Beach will take you to the Plantation area approximately 2.5 miles Placencia Tennis Avadon Divers The Placencia Road Ocean’s Edge Maya Beach Hotel Green Parrot Beach Houses Joyce & Frank’s Bed & Breakfast Mango’s Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows Singing Sands Inn Ah- Maya Playa Resort Please note the distance between Blue Crab and Maya Playa Resort is approximately 3 miles Seaview Properties Chabil Mar Villas False Caye Cocoplum Resort Community The Villas at Cocoplum Did You Know?! The Placencia Tourism Center is more than just an information center? Casa At Last Palmtree Designs The Maine Stay Cordy’s Beach Cottage Blue Crab Beach Nautical Inn Bahia Laguna Beach Suites Seine Bight Village Lola’s Art Danube, Austrian Restuarant Caribbean Cabinets & Furniture The Inn at Robert's Grove Laru Beya Villas The PTC has a large supply of • maps of Belize • animal identification guides • postcards • mail drop to leave your cards • stamps and more Miller’s Landing Playa de Piratas Properties Seakunga Wild Orchid Properties Placencia Airstrip Barefoot Rentals All to help make your visit to Placencia perfect! Stop by the Placencia Tourism Center to check it out! The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 13 Spotlight on the Placencia BTIA - Ranguana Lodge Ranguana Lodge opened its door in 1989, at that time fly-fishing was big business here in Placencia. Ranguana Lodge opened its doors just catering to fly fishing customers. Most of those clients were from the US. At the time they had five private cabins all names from the game fishes - Tarpon, Permit, Sailfish, Marlin, & Bonefish. After several years of just catering to fly-fishing customers Ranguana’s owner Eddison Leslie, (or Mr. Eddie as he is known in Placencia) decide that it would be best to open its doors to the public and that’s when Ranguana Lodge really started becoming popular. Their guests really enjoyed the beautiful wooden interior and the privacy of having their own little cabin right on the beach in Placencia Village! It was many of the guests’ dreams come true! In 2001 Placencia got hit hard by Hurricane Iris and it completely took Ranguana Lodge out of business for at least 4-5 months … It was sad to see the nice wooden cabins destroyed. Three of them were as they would say “totaled” Mr. Eddie, like many who had lost so much, was not sure if opening back Ranguana would have been a good idea, but Joy encouraged him to make a fresh start. They managed to get 5 cabins up and going and it was then that Mr. Eddie handed the running of the business over to Joy completely. She opened Ranguana back up in late February of 2002. The three beachfront cabins were tastefully done in cement and two garden cabins – reminiscent of Ranguana’s original cabins. With the new cabins came a whole new look. Joy In 1998 Mr. Eddie’s daughter Joy started Joy Leslie of Ranguana Lodge. decided some new colors and change the names of Photo by David Vernon the cabins were in order. She wanted people to working with her father. She was ready to join into the family business and she saw where her relate to the colorful flowers and bright tropical fish dad needed some help. At the time Joy’s son was only one year old that they see when they are here in Placencia. She choose white but she figured she could still be a great mom and help her father for the cabins but gave each one their own colorful trim – lime run the lodge. After all women all over the world are career moms green, bright orange, sunshine yellow, hot pink and brilliant and Joy was certainly capable! Joy received just 1 week’s training purple! The names went from sports fish to fish that someone and took on the front desk the following week. Joy was up for the might see snorkeling - Parrot Fish, Trigger Fish, Angel Fish, Shell challenge and within a few months she brought some new ideas to Fish and Butterfly Fish. The guests loved it! After that Joy here dad – ideas that she thought would improve business. started landscaping the grounds with brightly flowering plants. Recently a barbecue grill and shady palapa have been added for First Joy started with changing a few stuff inside the cabins then guests and it has been a hit! change the color of the cabins themselves. Originally they were white with a forest green trim. Joy thought they needed to change Ranguana’s beachfront cabins are equipped with 2 double beds, the color to something that will catch someone’s eye so it became cable TV, fans, air-conditioning, a microwave, a coffee maker, a white with bright orange trim and it really worked!! Loads of toaster, a full size refrigerator, private bath with hot & cold people came by and said how much they loved the color! It also shower and a private balcony with a hammock for relaxing in. The encouraged more people to stop in and get information about the garden cabins were created from the salvaged lumber from the cabins in person. original 5 cabins. These cabins are bigger Continued on pg 14 The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 14 The best antique is an old friend Are you a good friend? Even if you aren't an antique lover, you can probably appreciate old things. The most worthwhile, long-term investment you can make is investing in relationships. A healthy, edifying friendship can have a huge impact on your well-being, character, and even your success. Old friends have seen us through celebrations, grief, births, graduations, marriages, and so much more. They love us for who we are--warts and all! Think about the most formative friendships in your life and consider writing a note of appreciation to each of your friends. Maybe there are some buddies that you need to reach out to because they have a need, or others you just need to reconnect with. Your gratitude shows them that they are cared for, which everyone needs to know. Spotlight on Ranguana Lodge continued from pg 13 than the beachfront cabins, and have a more rustic style. They are equipped with 2 double beds, standing and ceiling fans, full kitchen, cable TV, private bath with hot & cold shower and a private balcony with a hammock. The beach at Ranguana Lodge is truly a view to savor! Top the view off with beach chairs and palapas and it is really a little slice of paradise. What makes Ranguana Lodge really work is a real combination of its beautiful location, quality service, private cabins, beautiful garden, great long time staff and the fact that Joy is always looking for was to improve her business while keeping there rates affordable. If you are in the area stop by, Ranguana Lodge can be found right on Placencia’s famous sidewalk, call 501-523-3112, are email [email protected]. The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 15 Placencia BTIA Members Placencia Tourism Center – Phone: 523-4045 - Email: [email protected] & [email protected] Website: www.placencia.com or www.placenciabreeze.com BUSINESS NAME MAP # Ah-Kinchil Artful Dodger Sail & Canvas Atherly, Don & Lindsay Aqua Oasis Avadon Divers Ltd Bachmann-Fairs, Brigitte Bahia Laguna Beach Suites Barefoot Beach Bar Barefoot Rentals (Auto) Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows Bayshore Ltd. Beachfront Suites Belize Trips Belize Ultralight Flying Adventures Belize Sailing Charters Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club Blue Crab Beach Resort Blue Garden House Blue Lagoon Apartments Brady, Alice Brown, Felisha Caballero, Alexis & Lloydia Capeling, Ralph Captain Jak’s Cabanas Caribbean Travel & Tours Carpenter, Nick & Kim Caribbean Cabinet & Furniture Carol’s Cabana Casa At Last Casa Beya Casa Del Sol Casa Placencia Celeste, Donna Century21 BTAL Chabil Mar Villas Coconut Cottage Cocoplum Cohen, Howard & Karen Colibri House Cordy’s Beach Cottage Coston, Debbie Cotton, Lynn & Les Cozy Corner Restaurant & Hotel Danube Austrian Restaurant D'eclipse Entertainment Club Decked Out House Denyse’s Originals Destinations Belize Dial, Elysia Dial, Mary Ann Dianni’s Guest House Easy Living Apartments Eloise Travel Lodge Evan’s Place Feijer, Egbert Finca French Connection French Louie Caye Frisky Frog Fast Food Fix Garden Cabanas Galipeau, Cheryl Gentile, Franco & Mariuccia Levoni George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse Green Parrot Beach Houses Grill N Go Guild & Guild Consulting Harry’s Cozy Cabanas Heaven’s Gate Beach Bungalow Hess, Tina JAG Auto Rental & Property Management Joy Tours Joyce and Frank’s Beach House Julia’s Room Keck, Pamela & Karl Kingfisher Adventures La Chapelle Suites La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant Laru Beya Villas Linarez, Cindy & Francisco Lola’s Art Lost Reef Resort Lydia’s Guest House Manatee Inn Mangos Maya Beach Hotel Maya Dream Beach House Maya Lodge Maya Playa Resort Michelo Flats Miller’s Landing Miramar Apartments EMAIL [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] PHONE 523-8017 523-3625 610-3843 605-0586 503-3377 523-3248 523-4091 523-3515 523-3438 523-8010 523-8019 606-1521 610-1923 523-3279 523-3138 523-3303 523-3544 207-326-9171 523-3481 625-0673 602-9300 523-4038 610-1278 523-3561 523-3481 520-3021 523-3555 523-3132 523-3630 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 523-3481 503-3143 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 670-2034 523-3606 523-3234 610-1009 622-6695 523-3341 523-8001 604-4088 523-3280 610-0132 523-3288 503-3017 523-3086 523-4018 523-3209 523-3159 523-3481 523-3299 523-3127 627-1020 523-3481 523-3656 523-3228 670-0108 523-3481 523-3329 523-3624 CELL or FAX 610-3214 523-8010 6002342 523-3543 523-3081 622-7104 523-3081 610-1399 609-5073 523-3081 669-4842 523-3611 609-4267 605-0586 627-3150 624-8637 610-4718 609-5124 523-3081 523-3081 523-3081 605-1648 523-2488 523-3251 523-3234 523-3148 523-3344 523-3074 523-3325 561-683-3899 503-3478 520-4057 523-3323 523-3777 523-3115 523-3476 523-3342 606-7262 523-3117 523-4083 523 8111 520-8040 523-3148 605-0586 523-8121 523-3519 523-3010 523-3658/3117 523-3291 523-3155 561-683-3899 523-3225 523-3322 523-3477 604-1089 523-3483 601-1913 523-3354 600 2040 520-8040 626-2518 523-3011 503-3095 CONTACT PERSON Kevin Madore & Maya Krammer Wini Mertens & Steve Lobban Don & Lindsay Atherly Stefano Ragagnin Anne-Marie & Phillip McNeil Brigitte Bachmann-Fairs Doug & Madalon Richardson Cassie & Brice Dial Megs Yearwood Bill & Adriane Taylor Jenny Wildman Maricia & Robert McMahon Katie Valk Tito Roveda Rob & Kim McDaniel & Tonya Wakefield Melissa Rea Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson Costas & Sally Christ Veronique McKenzie Alice Brady Felisha Brown Alexis & Lloydia Caballero Ralph Capeling Erin Ivy Veronique & Lance McKenzie Nick & Kim Carpenter Steve Christensen & Maretha McCullock Egbert Cabral Dewey Harshbarger Veronique McKenzie Jacki Tipton Donna Celeste Bradley Rinehart Kay Westby Stewart Krohn Howard Cohen & Karen Kotansky-Cohen Stefano Ragagnin & Nicoletta Sala Cordelia Ford Debbie Coston Lynn Cotton Gilbert Garbutt Herbert Kollmann & Simone Gareis Andria Villanueva Linda Burrows Denyse Rosa Mary Toy Elysia Dial Mary Ann Dial Ruth Turner/Dean Cabral Veronique Mckenzie Sonia Leslie Evan Bull Egbert Feijer Veronique McKenzie Marcus Perigo & Anna Dahlberg Randolph Villanueva Gary Geier Veronque McKenzie Cheryl Galipeau Franco Gentile & Mariuccia Levoni Jean Reed David Allardice & Leo Ramirez Dawn Pollard Yvette Guild Harry Eiley Jodie Leslie Tina Hess Eugenie Adderly Gabourel Hubert & Karen Young Joyce Danz Julia Leslie Pamela & Karl Keck Charles Leslie Mark Mondier Simone De Angelis Ian McField Cindy & Francisco Linarez Lola Delgado Lisa D’Amore Lydia Villanueva Slavek Machacka Steve Bauer & Annemarie Glanzmann Ellen & John Lee Jodie Leslie & Wanda & Roger Snell Stefano Ragagnin & Lou McLeod Chuck Meares Michel Ardoullie Gary & Ann Miller Ilsa Villanueva The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 18 Placencia BTIA Members cont. Mirasol Villa [email protected] 523-3481 MnM Hardware Placencia [email protected] 523-3517 Moorings Belize Ltd. [email protected] 523-3351 Mosquito Coast Trading Co. Ltd. 523-8141 Muzamanzie Photographs [email protected] 523-3563 Nautical Inn [email protected] 523-3595 Ocean’s Edge [email protected] 514-606-5582 Ocean Motion Guide Service [email protected] 523-3363 One World Rental [email protected] 523-3618 Palmetto Bay Resort [email protected] 671-4613 Palmetto Retreat [email protected] 523-3481 Palmtree Designs [email protected] 523-3563 Paradise Vacation Hotel [email protected] 523-3179 Peninsula Citizens for Sustainable Development [email protected] 610-4718 Pickled Parrot Cabanas [email protected] 624-2651 Philbin, Kevin & Tammy [email protected] 625-0724 Placencia Bazaar [email protected] 523-4309 Placencia Humane Society [email protected] Placencia Pointe Townhomes [email protected] 719-282-3258 Placencia Tennis [email protected] 626-4015 Placencia Yacht Club [email protected] 970-209-7251 Platinum Designs [email protected] 610-0327 Playa de Piratas Properties [email protected] 523-3180 Property Pro Belize [email protected] 523-3292 Ranguana Lodge [email protected] 523-3112 RFG Insurance Agent [email protected] 523-3636 Rumfish y vino [email protected] 523-3293 Seahorse Dive Shop [email protected] 523-3166 Seakunga Ltd. [email protected] 523-3644 Seaspray Hotel [email protected] 523-3148 Sea View Properties [email protected] 604-5099 Secret Garden Day Spa [email protected] 523-3420 Secret Garden Restaurant [email protected] 523-3617 Silver Leaf [email protected] 970-944-2550 Singing Sands Inn [email protected] 523-8017 Siripohn Thai Massage [email protected] 620-8718 Smith, Stan & Mary [email protected] 523-4306 South Environmental Association [email protected] 523-3377 South Water Resort [email protected] 523-3308 Sunset Pointe Condos [email protected] 523-3314 Spectarte Gallery [email protected] 523-8019 Splash Dive Shop [email protected] 523-3058 Stann Creek Auto Rental [email protected] 523-3284 Stepping Stones Resort [email protected] 674-3474 Sunova Beach Gift Shop [email protected] 523-4060 Taylor, Winston [email protected] 623 7971 The Arches [email protected] 479-841-7970 The Inn at Robert’s Grove [email protected] 523-3565 The Joint Boutique [email protected] 523-3712 The Maine Stay [email protected] 523-3507 The North Beach [email protected] 523-3207 The Placencia Hotel & Residences [email protected] 520-4110 The Shak Beach Café [email protected] 622-1686 The Villas at Cocoplum [email protected] 610-0294 The Yellow House [email protected] 523-3481 Three Iguanas Villa [email protected] 605-0586 Tipsy Tuna [email protected] Toadal Adventures [email protected] 523-3207 Toucan Lulu [email protected] 628-8474 Tony’s Gym [email protected] 665-6685 Trade Winds [email protected] 523-3122 Traveler’s Inn 523-3190 Trip N Travel [email protected] 523-3205/3614 Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor [email protected] Village Inn [email protected] 523-3217 Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar [email protected] 523-3335 Weller, Jim & Cindy [email protected] 523-3599 Werlwas, Robert [email protected] 523-3040 Westwind Hotel [email protected] 523-3255 Whipray Caye Lodge [email protected] 608-8130 White Sand Villa [email protected] 604-7471 Wild Orchid Properties [email protected] 670-3665 Yellow Bella [email protected] 605-0586 Yoli’s Bar Yount, Doran & Kim [email protected] 670-4130 Z-Touch Day Spa [email protected] 523-3513 523-3081 523-3537 523-3206 610-1441 523-3594 514-697-9435 523-3484 620-9975 523-3081 603-5143 523-3256 719-488-1628 610-2428 623-5122 523-3112 523-3428 666-6934 523-3166 615-2925 609-3104 970-944-0552 520-8022 600-0375 523-3208 620-6649 662-6711 523-3264 605-0586 520-4112 628-6447 523-4028 604-6044 631-7427 609-7344 523-3205 623-3286 523-4016 610-1068 Veronique McKenzie Dora Duncker Renee Brown Ray Twanow Ed & Marion Carr Sandy Johnson Francine Martel Bernard Leslie or Lavern Parham Claudia Hardegger Carlton Watson Veronique McKenzie Marion Carr Alan & Deloris Stamm Mary Toy Wende Bryan/Denise Williams Kevin & Tammy Philbin Annette & Sonny Vernon Pam Keck- President Ed McBride & Carol Milnes Robert & Lida Rodgers Michael Potoker Hannah Cowell Ron Shivers Yvette Guild Gagliano & Frank Gagliano Joy Leslie Kitty Fox Pamela & John Solomon Brian & Ardie Young Ajinder Garcha & Bernard Burgos Jodie & Norman Leslie Diane Bulman Lee Nyhus Erin Parker William & Jolanda Brown, Stefano/agent Jean-Marc Tasse Siriporn Thakham Stan & Mary Smith Shannon Romero Alvin & Marie Cabral Eric & Janis Winchester Jenny Wildman Patricia Ramirez Candy Power Chris & Sue Harris Gillian Zabaneh Winston Taylor Mark Risk & Stefano Ragagnin Bob & Risa Frackman; Elena Cuellar Brice Dial & Carlen Hultgren Drew Travers Deborah & Dave Vernon Marco Caruso Magda Morales Boris Mannsfield or Erin Ivy Veronique McKenzie Stefano Ragagnin & Joe Stark Salva Zabaneh David & Deb Vernon Paul Fanning Tony & Casey Pinder Janice Leslie Lucille Villanueva Laura Godfrey & Fiona Macfarlane Tiziana Del Col Jacob Perez Wendy Lemus Jim & Cindy Weller Robert Werlwas George & Lisa Westby Julian & Beverly Cabral Jeanie Gabourel Aline Habib Stefano Ragagnin Yolanda Tretheway Doran & Kim Yount Ysela Zabaneh Become a member of the most active and fastest growing BTIA chapter in Belize!!!!! Stop by the Placencia Tourism Center Today to find out how.... Artful Dodger Sail & Canvas Aqua Oasis Avadon Divers Ltd Banana Tree House Barefoot Beach Bar Belize Sailing Charters Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club Blue Garden House Blue Lagoon Apartments Captain Jak’s Cabanas Caribbean Travel & Tours Carol’s Cabana Casa Placencia Century21 BTAL Coconut Cottage Colibri House Denyse’s Originals Destinations Belize Dianni’s Guest House Easy Living Apartments Eloise Travel Lodge Evan’s Place French Connection French Louie Caye Garden Cabanas George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse Harry’s Cozy Cabanas Joy Tours Julia’s Room Kingfisher Adventures La Chapelle Suites La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant Lydia’s Guest House Manatee Inn Maya Lodge Michelo Flats Miramar Apartments Mirasol Villa MnM Hardware Placencia Moorings Belize Ltd. Ocean Motion Guide Service 92-A2 87-E2 46-D3 35-B3 38-E3 99-C4 98-A2 88-E2 80-D3 52-D2 43-C3 53-C3 81-F2 93-B4 54-D4 55-E3 94-D3 42-C4 56-B3 57-C4 58-C3 59-D3 41-D5 33-D3 60-B3 89-E3 61-B3 44-C3 62-E3 45-E3 63-C4 25-C3 64-E3 65-F3 66-E2 67-F2 68-E3 69-C4 96-D3 97-B3 47-C4 BTIA MEMBERS LOCATED IN PLACECNIA VILLAGE Placencia: Home of the “Barefoot Perfect” Beaches The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 16 Placencia Health Center Placencia Police Fuel Grocery Store Bank C3-1 D3-2 LEGEND Moorings Belize Ltd. Ocean Motion Guide Service One World Rental Paradise Vacation Hotel Pickled Parrot Cabanas Placencia Bazaar Placencia Pointe Townhomes Placencia Village Square Placencia Yacht Club Property Pro Belize Ranguana Lodge Rumfish y vino Seahorse Dive Shop Seaspray Hotel Secret Garden Day Spa Secret Garden Restaurant Silver Leaf Siripohn Thai Massage South Environmental Association South Water Resort Sunset Pointe Condos Splash Dive Shop Sunova Beach Gift Shop The Arches The Joint Boutique The North Beach The Shak Beach Café The Yellow House Three Iguanas Villa Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar Toadal Adventures Toucan Lulu Trade Winds Traveler’s Inn Trip N Travel Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor Village Inn Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar Westwind Hotel Whipray Caye Lodge White Sand Villa Yellow Bella Z-Touch Day Spa 97-B3 47-C4 70-C4 71-B3 26-C3 7-D3 50-A1 43-C3 34-A5 43-C3 30-E3 43-C3 48-D4 79-E3 4-C3 24-C3 86- E2 43-C3 95-D3 72-B3 40-A1 49-C4 5-E3 85-E2 9-C3 73-E3 16-C4 8-D3 90-E2 39-E3 37-D3 75-F3 91-C5 83-C3 51-C4 43-C3 31-F4 15-C4 78-D4 32-E5 82-C3 29-F2 6-D3 Follow us: PTCBelize The online version of the Placencia BTIA’s monthly newspaper The Official Website of the Placencia BTIA Just search Placencia Tourism Center & Placencia Lobsterfest www.placenciabreeze.com www.placencia.com Placencia Tourism Center - Where can you find us online? The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 17 The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 19 Placencia Sanitation Co. Re-Assessed Garbage Rates The Board of Trustees for Placencia Water Board and Placencia Sanitation Co. Ltd re-assessed the rates being charged for garbage pick-up services. Their findings proved that all customers of similar nature were not being charged the same. Some establishments were not being charged at all. Having a company that has always been operating at a loss and always in need of the funds from other entities (namely The Village Council and The Water Board), the Boards confirmed that shortage of income due to lack of a standardized charging system is one reason why the company has been failing. GROUPS SMALL Other reasons include the initial purchase of old equipment that kept on having mechanical failure which the Water Board tried to fix by purchasing a tractor and a flat bed truck. Another reason is the fixed cost of servicing of a loan, the rising cost of fuel for the trucks, and salaries. The Company has always been managed on a negative budget due to the lack of income and the high operating costs. CATEGORY A B Both Boards then decided that the problem needs to be rectified. They standardized the rates being charged for businesses by categorizing all the types of businesses of similar nature. The charges are not based on volume of garbage produced, but is rather based by service. Households were not affected in any way; adjustment was made only to businesses. In some cases, some businesses have not seen an increase, but a decrease, while some businesses remain the same. The categorization is shown on the following table. MEDIUM A North Valley Magazine Visits Belize Belize City, Wednesday, February 24th, 2010- Travel Writer of North Valley Magazine, Eric Fairchild, is currently in country on a 5 day familiarization trip. North Valley Magazine is a fullcolor, full-gloss bi-monthly publication providing content that celebrates the lifestyles of various communities within the North Valley. Their editorial focuses on living life to the fullest, showcasing the best of North Valley areas. It features business profiles, travel features, book reviews, health and fitness articles and stories that touch on issues that are directly related to the lives of their readers. Eric first visited the ancient Maya City of Xunantunich where his journey began with a passage across the scenic Mopan river via a hand-cranked ferry and climbed the spectacular “El Castillo” which provided a breathtaking view of the towns of San Ignacio, Benque and the Guatemalan countryside. Then, it was off to Placencia, a one-of-a-kind beach destination that attracts film stars, backpackers, anglers and divers alike. There, he engaged in sea kayaking and savory local cuisine. The final stop of his itinerary will take him to La Isla Bonita, San Pedro where he will snorkel Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley, swim with the nurse sharks and rays and encounter the large green moray eels and parrotfish. Participating private sector partners who assisted in making this trip a success included Tropic Air, Mata Chica Resort, El Pescador, Elvis Kitchen, Cotton Tree Lodge, Lamanai Outpost Lodge, Island Ferry and Sea-duced by Belize. For more information on events taking place in Belize’s tourism industry, please contact the Marketing Department at the Belize Tourism Board at 227-2420, via email: [email protected] or visit our website www.belizetourism.org . B HOTELS 2 - 6 ROOMS GIFT SHOPS MASSAGE PARLOURS DIVE SHOPS REAL ESTATE OFFICE BUSINESS OFFICES LAUNDROMATS ART GALLERY OTHER BUSINESS LIKE APARTMENT FEE $42.00 HOTEL 7 – 12 ROOMS RESTAURANTS UP TO 4 TABLES (12 CHAIRS) FAST FOOD ESTABLISH$55.00 MENTS ICE CREAM PARLOURS BARS MEAT SHOP BOUTIQUES BAKERIES OTHER SMALL SHOPS OTHER BUSINESS LIKE HOTELS 13 – 18 ROOMS RESTAURANT 5 – 10 TABLES (40 CHAIRS) GAS STATIONS VEGITABLE SHOPS (STORES) TIRE & REPAIR SHOPS OTHER BUSINESS LIKE $75.00 HOTELS 19 – 24 ROOMS RESTAURANTS 11 + TABLES (44 CHAIRS) $110.00 HARDWARE STORES GROCERY STORES – SUPERMARKETS SMALL MARINE OR YACHT CHARTERS OTHER BUSINESS LIKE HOTEL 25 + ROOMS LARGE MARINE OR YACHT CHARTERS OTHER BUSINESS LIKE LARGE CONDO TYPE OF BUSINESS $250.00+ + $22.00 PER UNIT ANY ESTABLISHMENT WITH THREE ( 3) OR MORE COMBINED BUSINESSES WILL BE CHARGED AT THE COMBINED RATES LESS 10% ROUNDED TO THE NEAREST 5. ANY ESTABLISHMENT WITHOUT A WATER METER, THE CHARGES WILL BE ATTACHED TO THE LANDLORD’S BILL All things pass eventually Have you ever heard the concept of "seasons" in life? It refers to an idea that nothing in life lasts forever, and with time, all things change. Do you feel like your life is in an unhappy state? Are you stuck in a rut? It will pass! Sadly, this also applies to the good times as well. The elation of a promotion, the excitement of a new relationship--all will fade with time. Think creatively about how to maximize the sweet times and minimize the sour ones. Sweet, sour, bitter, pungent, all must be tasted. - Chinese proverb The Placencia Breeze – March 2010- Page 20 Spotlight on the Placencia BTIA - Seahorse Dive shop Brian Young Sr. started out at the Rum Point Inn, which was the only resort on the peninsula at that time. He set up the dive shop there in 1990, working with Rum Point’s owners George & Corol Bevier, in creating quality tours for those adventuresome tourists that came to Belize. His brothers Malcolm and Carlton joined him there. In 1995, Brian felt the need branch out and start his own business. Seahorse Dive Shop opened its doors in the year 1996 and was the first dive shop in the village of Placencia. Brian and his wife Ardeth, affectionately known by most as Ardie, were the only employees at that time but not for very long. The dive shop was built out over the water right at the point – a perfect location for launching tours out to the cayes. Seahorse quickly became one of the most famous and popular dive shops down south. Brian was one of the first to discover the Whale Shark migration in 1990 while trying to come up with new and exciting tours at Rum Point Inn. The tour was a hit! People loved it! Then in 1996 bigger tours were organized officially for the Whale Shark Tours and it soon became THE trip for Placencia’s dive industry. Other excursions that are organized through Seahorse Dive Shop are the Blue Hole Dive- which requires a 40ft boat, Glover’s Reef & Shark Hole. Over the years Seahorse Dive Shop and its work with whale sharks has been featured on the Discovery Channel, National Geographic, The Learning Channel and CNN. Seahorse Dive Shop has also worked with many environmental groups including WWF. Seahorse’s number one priority is safety. Knock on wood, Seahorse Dive Shop has not encountered any incident from the first day its Make Like A Bike & Tone Your Mid Section Bicycle Crunches Starting Position Begin by lying on your back, placing your hands behind your ears. Do not put your hands clasped behind your head. Lift your legs in the air and bend your knees so that your legs form a 90 degree angle. Action Move your legs in a bicycle motion. When your left knee is closer to your body, reach your right elbow to it. When your right knee is closer to your body, reach your left elbow to it. Try performing the exercise for 60 seconds in 2 sets. Muscles Worked: Abs, Obliques Time Involved: 4 minutes Body Benefit: Tone up your belly and "love handles" door opened till now. All guides hired to work at Seahorse must be local, knowledgeable and well experienced guide. These guides are trained by Brian and his brother Carlton Jr. Brian was one of Placencia’s first Dive Master Instructor and still one up to this present day. All the tour services Placencia has to offer from land to sea are provided by Seahorse Dive Shop. Sea tours include snorkeling, diving, fishing & dive training. Land tours include exploring the Jaguar Reserve, Mayan ruins & Monkey River. Several things that make Seahorse so special and bring people back time after time are its experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly guides. In addition, satisfaction and safety is their number one priority. The Young family is 4th generation Placencians and Seahorse is a family run business. On any given day you’ll find sons Brian Jr., who now takes care of day to day operations, and Shaun head boat captain at the dive shop. Current Employees of Seahorse Dive Shop are Mr. Brian Young Sr. (Owner), Mr. Carlton Young Jr. (Brother), Brian Young Jr & Shaun Young. Seahorse also works with several freelance guides such as Dorian Young, Dwayne Young, Doren Leslie, Nick Pollard just to name of few. Stop by Seahorse Dive Shop and get to know the crew. Or for more information you can contact Seahorse at [email protected] , visit their website www.belizescuba.com or call 501-523-3166. PENINSULA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT Third Annual Flaming Heart Ball The Peninsula Volunteer Fire Department wishes to thank each and every one of you whose attendance, participation, and contributions made this year’s Flaming Heart Ball a huge success. This annual event is our signature fundraiser to provide our volunteer firefighters with the resources they need to safely and effectively protect our community. The volunteer firefighters, the PVFD Board of Directors, and the Rotary Club of Placencia are extremely grateful for your support. Thanks to you ~ not only did the evening turn out to be a great party ~ but also a very successful fundraiser. We look forward to seeing you next year for another sensational Flaming Heart Ball! Gift Certificate Donors Contributors The Rotary Club of Avadon Dive Shop Placencia Belgian Cafe Everyday SuperMarket Bonefish Grill at Inner Vibrations Singing Sands Inn Nang Kee SuperMarket Boson’s Chair Paradise Hotel Caribbean Cabinet & Perez Vegetable Stand Furniture Ron Pitt Daytripper Catamaran Placencia Coop & Ice The Galley Restaurant House Goss Chocolates Suzan Riegal Grill n Go Wallen’s Market & Joy Tours Hardware Laru Beya Stephanie Wandke Lola’s Art Ioni & Ms Gail Westby Los Porticos Salva & Gillian Zabaneh Miller’s Landing The Moorings Myrtle’s Nite Wind Tours Omar’s Restaurant Pickled Parrot Placencia Bazaar Purple Space Monkey Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina Rumfish Y Vino Secret Garden Day Spa Secret Garden Restaurant Splash Dive Shop Sunova Gift Shop Tommy’s Restaurant Tutti Frutti Wendy’s Restaurant Special Guests from the Belize National Fire Service Chief Briggs Officer Middleton Inspector Vernon The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 21 Your Belizean Breakfast We’ve always been told that breakfast is Tessa E. - Refried Beans, Fry Jacks, & the most important meal of the day and Bacon here in Belize we have David V. - Beans, Johnny Cake, & fry such a wide variety of delicious food that we got to fish thinking… Pam T. - Fry Jacks! “What is your favorite Belizean Breakfast? Like if you had to Alyson P. - Fry jacks, beans and cheese have it EVERY morning for the rest of Larry S.- Fry Jacks!! Hands down. your life what would it be?” We asked Sandy A.- Fry Jacks, beans, and some fresh fruit. people and these were the results….. Dasha S. - Fry Jacks and Guava Jelly Robinson C.- Oats and condensed milk...yum! OR thick flour tortillas and beans OR Fried Fish (in coconut oil) and Johnny Nettie V. - fried fish......:) Cakes OR Hash Fish and Creole Bread (preferably Ms. Felisha B. Fry jack.... with fry bean (home-made)& butt Nora's bread) Wait, was I supposed to chose one? bacon....luv it!!! Lola D. - Pizza... Deb V. - Simple toast out of Creole bread with home made guava jam If I could go back in time, the same jelly Martha S. - Beans, hot sauce, bacon and fried eggs. on Miss Cuncu's fire hearth Johnny cakes with a li' burn on the bottom. Marissa G. - gaucho (sp) beans, cheese, and ketchup roll up in a tortilla like a burritos. Mary T.- The huevas rancheros with fry jack and eggs sunny side up at Wendy's. Gram B. - anything w/ beans, preferably tortilla, cheese, egg and lots of Marie Sharps. Fry jacks can be subsisted on any given Sunday. Brice D. - Eggs, Refried Beans & Johnny Cakes. Adriane T. - Fry jacks (or tortillas), egg, beans, cheese and salsa. Fiona M - Tortilla, beans, cheese, hashed fish and a piece of fruit. Cassie D. - Custard w/ condensed milk & John the Bakerman White Bread. Zelma M - Fry Fish and fry beans and Fry jacks. Love it What is YOUR favorite Belizean breakfast? The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 22 Combating Climate Change with Blue Carbon Sinks Article by: The Coral Reef Alliance Most studies about coral reefs and climate change focus on the impacts that increased levels of carbon dioxide will have on reef ecosystems. Higher concentrations of carbon dioxide threaten corals with increasing sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification, sea level rise, and intensifying tropical storms. However, a recent United Nations report presents a different angle on this relationship: the conservation of coral reefs and their associated coastal marine Primary school students of San Pedro visit a mangrove forest that is ecosystems could actually be the protected in the Bacalar Chico National Park. key to combating climate change. According to the report Blue Carbon: The Role of Healthy Oceans in Binding Carbon, marine ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses capture and store between 800 and 1,650 million tons of carbon a year, equal to about half the annual emissions of the global transport sector. These marine vegetated habitats cover less than one percent of the seabed, yet account for over half of all carbon storage in ocean sediment. Furthermore, though their combined biomass amounts to less than one percent of the biomass of plants on land, they store a comparable amount of carbon, making them one of the most intense carbon sinks on the planet. These ecosystems are now referred to as “blue carbon sinks.” Preserving and restoring marine vegetated ecosystems could contribute to offsetting up to seven percent of current fossil fuel emissions over the next two decades, and it would accomplish that task at a fraction of the cost of implementing carbon capture and storage technologies at power plants. That figure is equal to more than half of the carbon offsets projected for reducing rainforest destruction. What’s more, while carbon captured and stored on land may be locked away for mere decades, carbon stored in the oceans remains for millennia. Unfortunately, though, coastal vegetated habitats are being lost at an increasingly rapid pace. Since 1940, more than thirty percent of both mangroves and seagrass beds have been lost, and we are currently loading between two and seven percent of our blue carbon sinks annually –a sevenfold increase over loss rates half a century ago. This rate of destruction is much faster than the rate of destruction of rainforests, and current trends might see these ecosystems nearly disappear within a few decades. The health of coral reefs is inseparable from the health of these closely associated ecosystems; seagrass beds and mangroves, in particular are found nearly everywhere that coral reefs occur, and many species rely on a combination of these habitats over the course of their lives. It is therefore critical that the management plans and the design of marine protected areas (MPAs) consider all of these related ecosystems. Zones B and C of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve are designated areas protecting such habitats, and CORAL’s holistic Coral Reef Sustainable Destination (CRSD) model encourages just this kind of integrated thinking. CORAL supports effective management of MPAs around the world that include seagrass and mangrove habitats in addition to coral reefs, and we are also supporting community efforts to curtail the destruction of these habitats and grant them The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 23 more official protections. While CRSD wasn’t designed with blue carbon sinks in mind, the new information about the great importance of marine vegetated habitats further demonstrates the value of a holistic approach to conservation. By taking into consideration the whole coral reef ecosystem and all of the factors that influence its health, CORAL’s work has been helping preserve these additional habitats that we now know are ultimately helping to protect coral reefs –and all other ecosystems – from the A mangrove propagule develops impacts of climate change. on suitable substrate Word of the Month Salient - \SAY-lee-unt; SAYL-yunt\ , adjective; 1.Shooting out or up; projecting. 2.Forcing itself on the attention; prominent; conspicuous; noticeable. 3.Leaping; springing; jumping. noun: 1.An outwardly projecting part of a fortification, trench system, or line of defense. 2.A projecting angle or part. He gave science an exciting, positive image when many Americans were skeptical of it, worried that its most salient effect was to disenchant the universe and undercut religion. Chinese “Belize Guide & Map” Travel Guide launched in Taiwan The 2010 Taipei International Book Exhibition was the ideal event to present the new “Belize Guide & Map” which took place from January 27th to February 1st. The Embassy of Belize in Taiwan along with the Central American Trade Office (CATO) also in Taiwan together with support from the Belize Tourism Board and the Embassy of Belize in Taiwan joined efforts in the production of a “Belize Guide and Map” in Chinese (with English sub-titles). The Belize Guide & Map was launched at the 2010 Taipei International Book Exhibition held earlier this year from January 27th to February 1st, 2010 by Belize’s Embassy in Taiwan. The Chinese written Belize Guide & Map was put together by a team of travel writers who visited Belize last year and were hosted by the Belize Tourism Board and the tourism private sector. It is complete with destination information on Belize’s tourism attractions, maps, lists of “must eat local cuisines”, “must-buy souvenirs”, ‘must-try popular activities” and even a segment on “Plus+ Life in Belize by Taiwanese immigrants”, as well as sources of information in the planning of trips to Belize. The Guide was developed to promote Belize in Taiwan and other Asian markets interested in visiting Belize. The Belize Tourism Board is pleased to have partnered with the Embassy of Belize in Taiwan, the Central America Trade Office and the Embassy of Belize in Taiwan in their efforts to promote Belize in Taiwan and Asia and looks forward to a continued working relationship. The Asian market has slowly demonstrated interest in Belize both as a vacation and investment destination. For more information on events taking place in Belize’s tourism industry, please contact the Marketing Department at the Belize Tourism Board at 227-2420, via email: [email protected] or visit our website www.belizetourism.org. Placencia Tourism Center’s Updated Tour Guide License List As of 14 March, 2010 Alfonzo Zuniga 25 Sept, 10 Alfred Williams 11 Feb, 11 Alrin Muschamp 10 Jan, 11 Alexander Garbutt 28 Jan, 11 Andria Villanueva In Process Anthony Eiley 8 Dec, 10 Arthur Vernon 23 Apr, 10 Basilio Mes 14 Jan, 11 Ben Bol 11 Nov, 10 Bernard Leslie 22 Dec, 10 Bertrand Garbutt 23 Apr, 10 Brent Young 21 Nov, 10 Bruce Godfrey 13 Sept, 10 Carlton Young Jr 23 Apr, 10 Charles Leslie Sr. 11 Dec, 10 Cirilo Chun 21 Feb, 11 Claudia Chon 11 Mar, 10 Clint Villanueva 3 April, 10 Clive Garbutt 19 Mar, 10 Condrad Villanueva 14 Dec, 10 Cyrillo Cal 4 Dec, 10 Dale Godfrey 13 May, 10 Daniel Cabral 7 Feb, 11 David Vernon In process Dermin Shivers 19 Mar, 10 Derwin Garbutt 24 Mar, 10 Devin Lozano 3 Apr, 10 Doren Leslie 28 Jan, 11 Dorian Young 23 Apr, 10 Earl Godfrey 28 Jan, 11 Ed Carr 11 Mar, 11 Egbert Cabral 11 Feb, 11 Eloy Cuevas 3 Oct, 10 Elton Eiley 4 Nov, 10 Eric Forman 14 Dec, 10 Ernest Garcia 3 Apr, 10 Evaristo Muschamp 21 Jan, 11 Eworth Garbutt 4 Dec, 10 Francisco Linarez 22 Dec, 10 Gareth Longsworth 14 Mar, 11 George "Benji" Eiley 11 Feb, 11 Gilbert Garbutt 8 Dec, 10 Glen Eiley 13 June, 10 Harold Neal 28 Jan, 11 Henry Tucker 10 Jan, 11 Hubert Neal 30 Dec, 10 Ian Cuevas 11 Feb, 11 Ivan Leslie Sr 8 Dec, 10 Jason Williams 14 Jan, 11 Jeremy Garcia 13 Oct, 10 Jeremy Joe Garbutt 11 Feb, 10 Julian Cabral 11 Feb, 11 Kazerine Garbutt 25 Jan, 11 Kenroy Eiley 13 May, 10 Kylon Garbutt 2 Mar, 11 Kurt Godfrey 3 Apr, 10 Lance McKenzie 20 Jul, 10 Leopold Leslie 14 Dec, 10 Leslie Vernon 24 Jan, 11 Linda Garcia 18 Sept, 10 Lisa Carne In process Louis Godfrey 11 Feb, 11 Lloydia Westby 8 Dec, 10 Malcolm Young 19 Mar, 10 Natasha Gibson 14 Dec, 10 Nick Pollard 8 Dec, 10 Patricia Ramirez 11 Feb, 11 Prince Gongora 11 Mar, 11 Rafael Villanueva 4 Nov, 10 Randolph Villanueva Jr 14 Dec, 10 Randolph Villanueva Sr. 13 Nov, 10 Raymond Gordon 4 Dec, 10 Reina Eiley 21 Mar, 10 Rene Leslie 22 Dec, 10 Shawn Young 11 Aug, 10 Stephen Lopez 11 Feb, 10 Walter Garbutt 23 Apr, 10 Warren Garbutt 4 Jan, 11 Wayne Castellanos In Process Verna Z Coleman 30 Dec, 10 Zane Westby21 Feb, 11 Zeferino Mes 22 Dec, 10 Please note that there may be licensed guides that may not appear on this list. Feel free to contact the Placencia Tourism Center for further information. The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 24 The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 25 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON S.I. No. 115 of 2009: Coastal Zone Management Authority (Sport Fishing) Regulations In an effort to answer many of the questions about the new Sport Fishing legislations that were signed in late 2009, the Coastal Zone Management Authority has put together a FAQ, ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ sheet, to help stakeholders and the general public understand what the legislation is about and how it will affect them. Keep in mind that this legislation was drafted to ensure easy enforcement as well as better protection for the fish species. For this reason, the clearly states that if you want to go fishing, and you do not have a commercial fishing license, then you will need a sport fishing license. - - 1. What is considered ‘Sport Fishing’? - “Sport Fishing means fishing for the purpose of leisure or competition only, and not for the commercial purpose of selling, exporting or otherwise.” 2. What considered leisure? ** - From the dictionary it means ‘in one's leisure time: at one's convenience’. For the purposes of this act, it is interpreted to mean ‘not done as part of a job or in exchange for payment of any kind.’ This would include for subsistence purposes, to feed yourself and family, sharing your catch with friends or family, etc. 3. Who needs a Sport Fishing license? - “Every person desirous of engaging in sport fishing within Belizean waters shall apply in writing to the Minister or to a person or authority (CZMA) authorized in writing by the Minister, as the case may be, for a sport fishing license.” - Basically, if you want to go fishing, and you do not hold a commercial fishing license, you will need a sport fishing license. 4. How do I get a Sport Fishing license? - Licenses are distributed through the CZMA or authorized distributor throughout the country. A list of distributors will soon be available. - Yearly licenses have to be applied for at the CZMA office. Licenses will be mailed or can be picked up after three business days. In the near future, you will be able to apply for and purchase your sport fishing license online at our CZMA website. 5. How much does a license cost? Licenses are sold based on how long you want it for. Below is the fee structure: FISHING PERIOD FEES IN BELIZE DOLLARS One (1) Day One (1) Week One (1) Year $20.00 $50.00 $100.00 6. If I am aboard a boat and others are fishing, but am not fishing, do I also need a sport fishing license? - Non fishing persons aboard the boat eg. wives or children also require a license. The law states that (Sec. 8) “A person is deemed to be engaged in sport fishing if (a) he is on a boat or engaged or employed on a boat while in used or equipped for sport fishing in the waters of Belize. - As stated in the introduction of this FAQ sheet, this legislation was drafted to make enforcement as simple as possible. If you are fishing, and do not have a commercial fishing license, you will need a sport fishing license. 7. If I am fishing for a fish that is not on the list outlined as Sport Fish, do I need a license? ** - Again, once you are fishing, and do not have a commercial fishing license, you will need a Sport fishing license. The type of fish does not matter, as long as you do not have a Commercial Fishing license to catch fish, you will need to get a Sport fishing license. 8. Are all the fish on the list of sport fish in the Fisheries legislation protected? - The list of fish outlined in the Fisheries legislation is only a list of commonly targeted sport fish and is not a comprehensive list. There are other fish species that are not on the list that are also considered sport fish. GOSS CHOCOLATE MADE IN BELIZE AVAILABLE ON THE PENINSULA ORGANICALLY GROWN Placencia: Wallen’s Market, Everyday Grocery, Placencia Tourism Office, Sunova Beach Gift Shop, Beach Bazaar, Michelo’s Café, Chabil Mar Villas, Turtle Inn, Placencia Grocery, Nang Kee Market, Tutti-frutti Italian Gelato Shop Seine Bight: Lola’s Art, Danube Restaurant, Moorings, Western Horizon Grocery & Restaurant, Peninsula Store, RFG Insurance, and Blue Crab Beach ~ ~ Home of Goss Chocolate 523-3544 The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 26 Your child's caffeine intake: How much is too much? Limit Soda Though there are 24 hours in every day, it seems there's never enough time to accomplish everything you need to do as a parent. Trying to integrate healthy habits into your family's already hectic schedule can add even more stress. But when you make time for healthy habits, you'll find yourself with extra energy, less stress and a greater ability to take on life's challenges. Getting healthy doesn't happen overnight. Take your time, enjoy the ride, and make one small change at a time. Here is one habit you can easily fit into your routine today. Cut back on the amount of soda your family drinks. You probably wouldn't offer a young child coffee, yet parents regularly serve their children soft drinks and sodas that contain caffeine. Adults should limit their own caffeine intake to less than 400 milligrams daily. Although the U.S. hasn't developed caffeine guidelines for kids, Canadian guidelines suggest that preschool children consume no more than 45 milligrams of caffeine (one can of soda) daily. Besides being devoid of nutrients, these beverages have negative effects on both children and adults, including jitters, nervousness, headaches, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and nausea. These effects are compounded even more in children because they're smaller. Because caffeine is also a diuretic, causing more frequent urination, too much can contribute to dehydration--especially on hot, humid days. Blogger Travel Writer & Photographer in Belize Belize City, Wednesday, February 24th, 2010- Blogger/Travel Writer Holly Corbett & Photographer, Michael Bristol are currently in Belize from February 22nd – March 3rd, 2010 visiting both inland and offshore Belize. Her award winning travel blog is www.LostGirlsWorlds.com and gets 20,000 unique monthly visitors (plus over 1,500 followers on Twitter). Holly’s blog will include a six-part web series covering all aspects of Belize and will also focus on Belize as a romantic destination for couples seeking both adventure and wellness. In addition to her blog, Holly has secured an assignment with Healing Lifestyles & Spa, which has a circulation of 75,000. This magazine focuses on nurturing and healing alternatives for the global community and its exquisite photography and comprehensive editorial coverage let the reader explore the many rewards of healthy living. Holly will also be pitching to Redbook Magazine (circulation 2.3 million) with a similar story angle. Redbook is a magazine published for women with articles pertinent to all facets of day to day living. Stories feature real women and celebrities divulging struggles, hardships, successes and triumphs in their lives. The couple’s itinerary will take them to La Isla Bonita, San Pedro where they will engage in a wonderful snorkel with nurse sharks and rays at Hol Chan & Shark Ray Marine Reserve, enjoy a spa treatment and some yoga. The next stop on their itinerary will take them to Placencia for a tour of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and a visit to the ancient Maya City of Lubaantun. The final leg of their itinerary will take them to Punta Gorda to spend a day immerse in the Maya culture of Belize. “The Internet is a major medium for facilitating travel and social networks have become a great marketing tool for Belize,” comments Ag. Tourism Director, Shakira Tsai. Holly’s blog will further contribute to the BTB’s promotional efforts and build Belize’s presence online on the heels of its first recently held Blogger’s press trip in November of last year. This avenue has been an effective means of reaching the consumer and creating more buzz about Belize’s tourism product”. “The additional magazine features will further compliment and generate more demand with a different audience reach,” commented Tsai. Participating private sector partners who assisted in making this trip a success included Hidden Treasure Restaurant, The Phoenix Resort, Maya Island Air, Victoria House, Amigos del Mar Dive Shop, The Inn @ Roberts Grove, Blancaneaux Turtle Inn, Hickatee Cottage, Blue Water Grill, Elvis Kitchen, Red Ginger Restaurant, Akbol Yoga Resort, The Secret Garden Spa and International Belize Tourism Marketing. For more information on events taking place in Belize’s tourism industry, please contact the Marketing Department at the Belize Tourism Board at 227-2420, via email: [email protected] or visit our website www.belizetourism.org . The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 27 Frequently asked questions about new Sports Fishing License - - Only three species on that list are protected namely the Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), Permit (Trachinotus falcatus), and the Bonefish (Albula vulpes). These three fish species are for ‘catch and release’ purposes only. The other species on the list can be kept after catching. 9. What does ‘Catch and Release’ mean? - Catch and Release fishing means that once any of the protected fish species is caught, it must be released back into the water where it was caught utilizing the ‘Best Practices’ guide for responsible angling. 10. I am a tour guide that does a lot of sport fishing tours. Do I need a Sport fishing license? - Yes, you will need a sport fishing license. However, the CZMA is working with the Belize Tourism Board to look at exemptions for tour guides who already have their tour guide license. In such cases, applications for exemptions may be granted. 11. Is it possible to get an exemption for my child who is under 15years old, or my father who is over 65years old? - Exemptions may also be granted for children under 15yrs and over 65 years old if application for such an exemption is received by the CZMA. 12. If I am standing on a dock or on casually fishing from the shore, will I still need a Sport Fishing license? - The law, as it is written, does not care where the fishing is done. As long as you are fishing for ‘leisure’ and do not have a commercial fishing license, then you will be required to have a sport fishing license. 13. If I am fishing in the river, do I still need a Sport fishing license? - Sport fishing in fresh water is still sport fishing under the definition given above. It is the act of fishing for ‘leisure’ and thus includes ‘leisure’ fishing in both freshwater and marine habitats. SUDUKO PUZZLE 6 9 3 2 6 1 1 5 6 3 4 2 9 9 6 8 2 1 4 5 4 Here are the rules of the puzzle - There is really only one rule: Fill in the grid so that Every row, Every column, and Every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9 ** The answers to these questions have been verified by the Attorney General’s Ministry. If you have any other questions about this new Sport Fishing legislation, please feel free to contact us here at the CZMA office. The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 28 ACCOMMODATIONS South of Airstrip Easy Living Apartments - 4 two bedroom apartment units in the heart of the village. Central air, carpeted, fully-equipped kitchen, & veranda. Each unit sleeps a max. of four persons - 1 queen sized bed, 2 twins. Internet service available. Less than 100 yards from the beach and within easy walking distance of dive shops, tour guides and restaurants. Taxi service available. For more info call: 523-3524 or 626-8662 fax: 227-0849, email: [email protected] website: http://www.easyliving.bz One World Rentals: Seven beautiful, comfortable and immaculate studios and rental houses around an attractive courtyard . Cable TV, wireless internet access, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, fully screened, hammocks. Located in the heart of Placencia (behind the “Rumfish” restaurant) close to the beach, shopping and restaurants. www.oneworldplacencia.com. Contact Swiss owner Claudia Hardegger at 5233618 or 6209975. Email: [email protected]. MC, VISA accepted. Rates from 49US$ plus Tax. Ranguana Lodge: 5 Private ocean view cabins located right on the beach in the heart of Placencia Village: We have three private airconditioned 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: [email protected] website: www.ranguanabelize.com The North Beach offers luxury suites in our sea view villa with full kitchens, living areas and configurations from one to five bedrooms. Each suite has air conditioning, ceiling fans, cable t.v. & phone. Located north end of the sidewalk-walking distance to services. The perfect spot to enjoy Placencia Village. Contact us at phone 523 -3207, e-mail [email protected]. or visit www.thenorthbeach.com Tradewinds: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea & the Mountains of Belize! 9 Cabanas w/ private bath, hot/cold, 2 double beds, fans, coffee maker (coffee provided), refrigerator & veranda w/ hammock. Tel: 523-3122; Email: [email protected] North of the Airstrip Barnacle Bill's Beach Bungalows: 2 secluded bungalows on the beach in Maya Beach. Full kitchen, queen size bed, sleeper sofa, h/w, and fans. Complimentary kayaks. 5 night min. Tel/fax: 523-8010; email: [email protected]; Website: www.gotobelize.com/barnacle Blue Crab Beach Resort: Set on 5 acres from sea to lagoon, offers 4 beachfront A/C rooms and two thatch cabanas. Home of Goss Chocolate. Tel: 523-3544; Fax: 523-3543; Email: [email protected] Green Parrot Beach Houses: Maya Beach: 6 mahogany beach houses, loft bedrooms, fold out sofa, kitchenette & bath on main floor. 2 bay leaf thatch cabanas w/ garden showers & private beach. Tel/fax: 523-2488; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.greenparrot-belize.com Miller’s Landing: Seaside Eco-tourist resort, lush natural gardens, farthest from road noise, bird haven, fresh water pool, secluded beach, personalized service. Tel 523-3010, email: [email protected], Singing Sands Inn: on Maya Beach, 6 private thatched cabanas on the beach, with own bath & patio as well as 2 garden view flats. Roll away beds available to accommodate families w/children. Bonefish Grill on site Beautiful landscaping w/ swimming pool. Tel: 520-8022 Email: [email protected] The Inn at Robert’s Grove: Placencia’s most complete resort. Deluxe beachfront rooms w/private bath, ceiling fans, cable TV & A/C. Restaurant, bar, 3 - 50’ Pools, Jacuzzis, Conference Center, Tennis court, Fitness room, Internet room & Gift shop. Land and sea tours. Canoes, kayaks, sailboats, windsurfing boards & bikes for our guests use. Tel: 5233565; Fax: 523-3567; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.robertsgrove.com. The Placencia Hotel: A lavish Caribbean escape with European flare, The Placencia Hotel is a one of the most spectacular and pristine ocean front property in Belize. The newest and luxurious resort boasts 90 first class accommodations starting from Sea front Villas to Condominium Suites. Finest restaurants, with exquisite cuisines, first class service and amenities to indulge every vacationer’s dream. The exclusive private beach and the easy access to the main land will let you discover a world of opportunities from one location. Tel: 520-4110 or email: [email protected]. At The Cayes Ranguana Caye: is a privately owned two-acre island, managed by The Inn at Robert’s Grove. Located on the reef with three charming wood cabanas. Meals and beverages are available. Ranguana offers prime diving, snorkeling and fishing. Robert’s Grove PADI Dive Center will rent tanks and dive & snorkel equipment on the island as well as kayaks. Moorings are available. Reservations for dinner or lodging call 5233565. Robert’s Caye: If you didn’t know better, you’d think you’d landed in Bora Bora. Robert’s Caye, privately owned and managed by Robert’s Grove, is just 10 miles from Placencia (1/2 hour by boat) on a one acre island with four tastefully appointed cabanas built partially over the water. Each cabana is outfitted with a king bed, full bathroom with hot and cold running showers, and a private terrace with hammocks and stairs that descend directly into the Caribbean. A small restaurant and bar, also built over the water, serves three meals daily – or on your private cabana terrace if you’d prefer. An ideal setting for honeymooners and sportsmen alike, this “swept away” island paradise is surrounded by crystal clear water, ideal for swimming (right off your own terrace), snorkeling and diving. The nearby flats are renowned for fishing as well. The inn is happy to arrange rendezvous diving, fishing and snorkeling guides – even a massage therapist -- upon request. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are complimentary to island guests. Reservations for dinner or lodging call 523-3565 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: [email protected], WEB: www.whipraycayelodge.com MEALS Dining Around in Placencia Village French Connection - Best Meal in Belize - Conde Nast traveler. Exquisite modern European cuisine using only the freshest local produce. Catch the new early bird set menu from 5 - 6.30. Enjoy the ever changing a la carte menu we are famous for under our thatch. Or why not swing by for a drink and sample our light bites at the new martini bar. M/C and visa accepted. Closed Thursdays. Website: www.frenchconnection.bz, Email: [email protected], We strongly recommend reservations @ 523 3656. French Connection has a new location, we are now on the main road opposite Scotia Bank. Pickled Parrot Pizza Bar & Grill: Restaurant serving seafood, homemade pizza, appetizers, fajitas, burgers & salads. Great blender drinks & ice cold Belikin beer. Happy Hour Rum drinks from 5-6 p.m. daily. Ten ‘Dolla’ Lunch Special noon to 2p.m. Tel: 624-2651. Open 12 noon to 9 pm Everyday. Cabanas also available. Visa only. The “Inn” Spots - North of Placencia Village DANUBE Austrian Restaurant EAT - DRINK - RELAX in a romantic atmosphere. A/C indoor, lounge area outdoor. Viennese Schnitzel, Goulash, Dumplings, famous Apple Strudel and more. CIGARS from Cuba and Mexico. Dice your FREE Belikin beer between 4.30pm-6pm. Open 4:30pm - 10:30pm, closed Tuesdays. Ph: 610-0132, www.danubebelize.com 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 5232488. Email: [email protected] Maya Beach Hotel Bistro: A creative, modern menu. Prepared with the freshest local ingredients and infused with flavors from around the world. Open to the public all day, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and anywhere in between. Visa/MC. Indoor and outdoor tables, right on the beach. Reservations are recommended for dinner (520-8040). Closed Mondays Miller’s Landing: Specializing in gourmet pizzas & different evening special, Icy cold drinks, great music, poolside bar. Available for private functions 523-3010. . Singing Sands Inn: Enjoy dining on the beach front in the open air Bonefish Grill restaurant. The menu features traditional Belizean dishes as well as Asian, Italian & French influenced entrees. Closed Tuesdays, 5pm9pm for dinner. Reservations are suggested, but not required. Call 520-8022. All major credit cards accepted The Inn At Robert’s Grove: Offers two dining venues: The romantic, fine dining Seaside Restaurant, with a world class menu created by Frank Da Silva, their talented North American chef. The Seaside serves breakfast, lunch & dinner and offers a bar and wine cellar. We accept credit cards. For reservations at both call 523-3565. The Placencia Hotel: Largest pool in Belize, complete with swim up bar and restaurant area. Main Dining Room in Air Conditioned, beach front building, with outdoor dining also available. Third restaurant and bar area at the end of The Great Pier. Four thousand foot pier head accommodates guest in the lap of luxury. Open every day. Beach Bar 10a.m.-7p.m. Pier Bar 10 a.m.-10p.m. Main Dining 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Call 520-4110 for pick up of any number over 4 guests for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whipray Caye Lodge: see accommodation for info about our restaurant & bar. The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 29 CHEERS - Placencia Peninsula Bars J-Byrds:Local Bar by the Seaside docks. Open daily from 10am to 12pm. And live music every Friday’s Tel :523-3412 Singing Sands Inn’s two bars, The Bonefish Grille pool side from 11 AM to 10 PM and Chez Albert’s from 11 AM to 11:30 PM at the end of our 200 ft pier under a Thatched roof! Special drink nights to appeal to your taste buds! Closed on Tuesdays. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected] The Placencia Hotel: Three restaurants and three bars to better serve you. Margarita Monday with at least 10 different margaritas to tempt your taste buds!! Poolside open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Pier Head bar 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Main Bars 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Drinks menu, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. happy hour on local rum mixes at Pier Head Bar, Ice Cold Belikins and a variety of Blended Mixes. Credit cards accepted. Phone 520-4110 for reservation for pick up of groups 4 or more. Tipsy Tuna - Located on the beach, our seaside bar is open Sunday and Tuesday - Thursday, 11:30 am - 10pm and 'till midnight Friday & Saturday. Offering live entertainment and great happy hour specials. Bar food menu available. Our indoor bar is open Sunday-Wednesday, 7pm-Midnight and ThursdaySaturday, 7pm-2am. Karaoke Thursdays, pool tables and pay per view events on multiple televisions. Follow us on Facebook for updates and announcements. Tel: 523-3089; Email: [email protected] Coffee Shops SERVICES Chocolatier Goss Chocolate Goss Chocolate & cocoa powder made & sold exclusively in Belize. 100% organically grown Belizean cacao, Belizean cane sugar, whole vanilla bean. Now sold in fine stores, hotels, & restaurants on the Peninsula & throughout Belize. ph 523-3544 www.GossChocolate.com Food Markets Wallen’s Market: Serving Placencia with fresh produce, dry goods, & specialty items. Wholesale/retail. Tel: 523-3128; Hardware Tel: 523-3316 or 523-3523; Pharmacy Tel. 523-3346. email [email protected] Serving the peninsula for over 25 years!! Located across from the sport field. Internet Access Placencia Office Supply: HIGH SPEED INTERNET. CD Burning, USB, Floppy, Card Readers, Laptop - Wireless/LAN accessible, Printing, Faxing, Copies, Passport Photos, Publishing, Laminating, Stationery. Tel/ Fax: 523-3205, Email: [email protected] Singing Sands Inn offer wireless internet access, faxing, copies and CD burning. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected] Photography Muzamanzie Photographs – contact us for wedding photographs, Singing Sands Inn in Maya Beach offers espresso , latte, cappuccino all day long. Closed on email:[email protected] Singing Sands Inn offers right from their dock scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the reef or snorkel right in front of our beautiful reef just feet away! Kayak expedition is also available. Inland excursions, Monkey River tour, inshore and offshore fishing, Mayan ruins and much more. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected] Tuesdays. Tel: 520.8022 or Gift Shops & Art Galleries Art ‘N’ Soul Gallery: FINEST Art in town, featuring over 100 local Artist! Just North of main peir on the Famous Sidewalk. Open 9 am - 6 pm, 503-3088. Green Parrot Gift Shop: The in-place to shop on the peninsula. Featuring a wide variety of Belizean, Guatemalan, & Central American crafts. Lola Arts: In Seine Bight Village open from 8am-9pm. Phone 601-1913 Placencia Bazaar Gift Shop - simply the best! Original pottery, jewelry, arts and crafts...everything from souvenir spoons to Bazaar Art. Maya Island Air Agent. Located on the main street, next door to Scotia Bank. Summer hours: Open (most!!) every day 9am-1pm and again from 4pm-7pm and by appointment! Tel 523 4309. Robert’s Grove Boutique: Local arts and crafts, jewelry and fashion. Tel: 523-3565. Singing Sands Inn in Maya Beach offers arts and crafts and souvenirs from local artists. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected] Spectarte Gallery at Maya Beach a visit that will excite and delight with a cornucopia of unique furnishings and works of art. 10 am - 4 pm or by appointment 523 8019 next to Bayshore Limited Real Estate Sunova Beach Gift Shop - Located on the sidewalk in Placencia Village near the Tipsy Tuna. Offering a wide variety of t-shirts, Belizean souvenirs, beachwear, jewelry, Tipsy Tuna & Belikin souvenirs and much more! Take advantage of 10% Tuesdays where you get 10% off most items every Tuesday! Monday - Saturday, 8am-noon & 2-6 pm. . Tel: 5234060 TOUR PROVIDERS Ocean Motion Guide Service - Snorkel, Manatee Watch, Fishing, Monkey River, Jaguar Preserve, & Mayan Ruins. Ph: 523-3363 or 523- 3162 email: [email protected] The Placencia Hotel: tour operators specializing in snorkeling tours, inland excursions, Monkey River, fishing, Scuba Diving, Island to Island Kayaking, Maya Ruins, Cave Tubing or Fly fishing . We do special charters as well. We offer all new equipment, local guides and quality service. Call 520-4110 for booking. Fax: 520-4112, Email: [email protected] Website: www.theplacencia.com Robert’s Grove Dive Center Member PADI Int’l Resort Assn, offers daily Scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the reef and cayes with licensed insured PADI dive masters and guides on the inn’s new 48 foot Pro Dive Boat. The Fishing Center features on-property licensed guides for fishing charters -- bone-fishing, fly fishing and trolling. The Inn also operates Horseback Riding and Buggy Tours, its own Eco Tours to Monkey River, Jaguar Reserve and Maya Ruins. For Diving, Snorkeling or Fishing at Ranguana Caye and Robert’s Caye call Robert’s Grove for day use fees and overnight rates. For all tour services: Phone:523-3565; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.robertsgrove.com. Seahorse Dive Shop: Offers SCUBA Certification, snorkeling, fishing, river trips & charters. Call Brian Young (office) 523-3166; (home) 523-3356; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.belizescuba.com portraits, web & brochure photographs. Tel# 523-3563 or 603-5143 email: [email protected] Real Estate Ocean Motion Real Estate - Specialized in the sale & listing of properties. Beach Front, Lagoon Front, Commercial & Residential Lots, Resorts, Cayes, & House w/ Lots. Ph: 523-3162 or 523-3363, Cell: 6022152 or 660-2863. Email: [email protected] or [email protected] visit: www.oceanmotionplacencia.com The Placencia Hotel : Beachfront & Beach view condominiums, Lagoon and Canal Front lots and homes with private boat docks in our planned, gated community, offering full service and amenities. Full on site management and rental through The Placencia Hotel for all of our property options. Please call 5204110 or 610-3600 or email [email protected] to meet with our agents and view our piece of paradise! Website: www.theplacencia.com The Villas at Cocoplum will certainly be the premier Condominium residence in Belize. We offer you an exceptional high-quality home with nonstandard features in a low-density, environmentally friendly setting. The West Indies-inspired architecture will provide a home that is not only open, comfortable & tropical, but also in tune with the relaxed environment Placencia is famous for. Please visit our on-site sales office just south of Maya beach where the road is paved. M-F 9-5. Office # 523-3263. Cell 6100294. Email: [email protected]. www.theVillasatCocoplu m.com. Airlines Maya Island Air, the safer alternative to air travel in Belize, announces its new San Pedro Sula, Honduras route. Questions?? Call 523-4072. Maya Island Air...because we do more!! Tropic Air: The Airline of Belize. Over 180 daily scheduled flights throughout Belize. Charters to remote and exotic places. For reservations call 523-3410. Rentals - ( Golf Carts, Auto, Bicycles) Singing Sands Inn offer reliable bicycle rental service and see through, clear bottom kayak in Maya Beach by the hour, half day, full day or weekly. Competitive rates. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected] Shipping Service BelizeConnection.net- Your buying and shipping service form USA to Big Creek Port or by air contact: [email protected] or Pole at 6061501 Spa, Massage & Physical Therapy The Placencia Hotel: Our third floor lookout is the perfect spot to have your massage done!! We offer Swedish and Shiatzu Massage, facials, manicures & pedicure. Our treatments can be tailor made to suit any request. For reservation call 520-4110. Sea Spa at Robert’s Grove What better place to relax, repair, rejuvenate -- body and soul - than on the white sand beach of the Placencia Peninsula. At the heart of this seaside setting is Robert's Grove SEA SPA, the inn's full-service spa. The Sea Spa's oceanfront location is ideal for succumbing to the sea's healing power. Treatment rooms are inside thatch roofed beach cabanas. Treatments -- including massages, facials, body wraps, manicures and pedicures -- are adapted to your specific needs and administered by professionals. For reservations call 523-3565 The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 30 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 7 pm. Call 620-8718 or 600-0375, email: [email protected] - Kob Khun Ka Wedding Planning The Placencia Hotel: Our 90 rooms can easily accommodate your weddings quest, family and friends. The Placencia Hotel boasts the largest selection of on-site wedding and reception locations. You can choose from our spacious pool deck, extensive beach, scenic and spacious pier deck or thatched pier restaurants, dramatic and spacious third floor viewing deck or adjacent beachfront chapel, whichever is the perfect choice for you. We also offer our own on site full service Wedding Planner/Special Event Coordinator Tara Westby– Hotel Coordinator Please call: 520-4110, Fax: 520-4112 or email; [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.theplacencia.com Robert's Grove offers complete wedding planning and packages -- both at the resort and its private Caye. For further information contact 523-3565; or visit www.robertsgrove.com; Email [email protected] Singing Sands Inn can easily plan your entire weeding in our exclusive beautiful boutique Inn. Tel: 520.8022 or email: [email protected] RAFFLE * RAFFLE * RAFFLE * RAFFLE The ROTARY CLUB of Placencia is offering an all-exclusive package for two persons to the Caribbean jewel of Belize. TICKETS ARE US$50 (only 1,000 will be sold). For more information on this fantastic trip or to buy tickets, please visit our website www.rotaryclubofplacencia.org. Please tell your friends and families. CHURCHES St. John’s Memorial - Placencia Anglican (Episcopal) Church: Sunday services at 8:00 a.m. . Ministries of the Son of God Church - Seine Bight Village Sunday morning service 9 am, Sunday evening 6 pm. Saturday morning children’s bible study 9 am. Reverend Don Palmer. Phone 523-3301 or email [email protected] Plantation Chapel (Calvary Chapel of the Placencia Peninsula): Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. Non-denominational church. Call Pastor Jim Mensie for more information: 523-3362 Seventh Day Adventists: Services Fridays at sunset; Saturdays 9:00 a.m. Lay ministers. U. Torres - Tel# 503 2270 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 9:30 am Sundays Open Meeting OTHER COMMUNITY NUMBERS Placencia Village Council - 523 3396 Placencia Water Board - 523 4036 Seine Bight Village Council - 523 3660 Seine Bight Water Board - 523 3554 GETTING AROUND Hokey Pokey: Departs Independence/Mango for Placencia MNM Dock 6:30a.m., 7:30a.m., 8a.m., 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:30p.m, & 4:30p.m. And returns from Placencia MNM Dock to Independence/Mango Creek 6:45a.m, 10a.m., 12:30pm, 2:30 pm, 4p.m, & 5p.m, 6pm (except on Sundays). For more information please call 523-2376. De Express: Departs Placencia Shell Dock- 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. Tel: 523-4045. Tickets available at the Placencia Tourism Center. Thank you for choosing Placencia! Liquor License - Notice is hereby given that SLAVEK MACHACKA is applying for a Malt License for a the year 2010, to be operated at MANATEE INN Placencia, Stann Creek District, under the Intoxication Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 31 Ritchie’s Bus Line As of August 2009 Placencia to Dangriga Mon to Sat 6:30 am, 7 am, & 1:00 pm Sun 7 am & 1 pm Dangriga to Placencia Mon to Sat 11 am, 2 pm & 4:40 pm Sun 2 pm & 4:40 pm National Transport Schedule As of November 2008 Leaving Belize City to Benque Veijo - every half an hour to the hour from 5:00am to 12:00 pm Leaving Benque Viejo to Belize City - every half an hour to the hour from 1:00pm to 6:00 pm Leaving Belize City to Chetumal 6:00am (premier) 6:45am (express) 7:30am 8:00am 9:00am (premier) 11:00am (premier) 1:00pm 5:30pm Leaving Chetumal to Belize City 10:45am (premier) 1:45pm (premier) 2:00pm 3:00pm (express) 4:45pm (premier) 6:00pm P.S. Premier are the AC express buses and express are regular express buses. NTSL does not have any south runs do to the zoning changes! Any further questions kindly contact NTSL at email: [email protected] Radiance Ritchie’s Shuttle Schedule Placencia to The Plantation Area 5:50 AM, 11:15 AM & 4:30 PM Plantation Area to Placencia 7:00 AM, 11:50AM & 5:20PM Placencia Police Officers Sgt #114 Norman Benguche - 624-9965 Sgt #1 Enrique Aldana - 623-9252 PC #666 Brenford Middleton - 632-4508 PC #281 Shawn Moore - 620-7159 PC #156 Sydney Augustine - 626-5096 PC #730 Macario Choc - 627-6167 PC #785 Elton Palacio - 669-5482 PC #357 Curtis Card - 669-9504 PC #752 Andy Choco - 624-7533 PC #1109 Godwin Augustine - 665-2972 WPC #1218 Shereen Vasquez - 660-2667 PC #404 Eyon Valerio - 602-7474 PC #1189 Daren Ogaldez - 666-1509 SC Claude Augustine - 624-5345 SC Jose Sanchez - 667-4388 WSC Alva Leslie - 626-0807 EMERGENCIES Belize Emergency Response Team 223-3292 Placencia Medical Center: 523-3326 Located Behind the school, Placencia Village. Opening hours are Monday thru Friday 8:30 am to 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. after these hours Dr. Alexis Caballero will see only extreme Emergencies such as Heart Attack, Stroke, Asthma Attack, Accident, and Severe Allergy Reaction. Note: Weekdays after 5:00 pm and weekends Dr. Alexis work by appointments only. (Private). Dr. Alexis Caballero- Monday/Friday– 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m Seine Bight Medical Center: 523-3328 Independence Medical Center: 523-2167 POLICE: Placencia Police Station: 503-3142 Seine Bight Police Station: 503-3148 Independence Police Station: 523-2022 FIRE EMERGENCIES - 523-3207 or 523-4309 And she leaped, and twirled, and danced her way into the beautiful meadow where those who had gone before waited and ended with a graceful bow...... IN CASE OF FIRE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS • • • • • • POLICE PLACENCIA: 503-3142 SEINE BIGHT POLICE: 503-3148 KATHY ANGLIN: 626-0667 DAVE VERNON: 523-3207 STEVE WADE: 503-3069 SONNY VERNON: 523-4309 For Placencia Village & Seine Bight Only Bianca Felsher Barken 11 September, 1917 - 8 March, 2010 Your bright star will be missed…….. The Placencia Breeze March 2010 - Page 32 SMALL BUSINESSES: ADVERTISE HERE IN THE WHY? •Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) is initiating a new Buy Local initiative. It reinforces the message that we are a strong community with all of the goods and services members and guests alike might need to access. •It supports our local economy and communicates that the Placencia BTIA members and the community we live in are very glad they can provide their products and services to an appreciative audience. • It makes our villages self-sustaining and gives us all a sense of pride in that we can supply top quality product created or grown in or near our home base. • The goal of the program is to highlight local companies, who combine great service with competitive pricing. Supporting local business is critically important to Placencia and our surrounding areas. • Locally-based businesses not only create much greater economic impact than non-local businesses but also contribute more per employee to local charitable efforts in both dollars and time commitment, and contribute much more to our unique sense of place HOUSE FOR RENT Brand new 2 BR, fully furnished Located on the lagoon, near football field. Fully fenced Yard, pets ok US$600/mo, incl. utilities Email [email protected] for info. House for Rent - Long Term. 2 bedroom, 2 storey house for rent next to Purple Space Monkey w/ large garden. $850 BZ per month + All utilities & 2 months deposit Call Ewa 628 -7725 or email: [email protected] Apartments for Rent $450 - $600 Placencia Village North Nice Neighborhood New and Nice - Ideal for singles 523-3251 HOW? • Look for the “BUY NEARBY PLACENCIA” sign to spot who is a participating in this initiative and chose to give them your valued business! • Advertise in the Placencia Breeze special section with a 2” x 1” ad for just $15 monthly. We will help you format your small space ad to make it as effective as possible. Advertise Your Business HERE Lola’s Art Seine Bight Village, Belize (011-501)523-3342 & 6011913 [email protected] Website: www.jcasadart.com Advertise Your Business HERE Placencia Breeze Advertising Rates Ad Size Non Member BTIA Member Monthly Monthly Non Member BTIA Member Quarterly Quarterly Full Page $395.00 $297.00 $1125.75 $810.00 1/2 Page $238.00 $178.00 $678.50 $486.00 1/4 Page $119.00 $89.00 $339.00 $243.00 1/8 Page $79.00 $60.00 $225.50 $164.00 Line Ads $18.50 $15.75 **** Special rates available for annual advertising, front & back page advertising & centerfold advertising. Inquire at the Placencia Tourism Center for more information. Village Council Elections Will Be Held APRIL 18, 2010!
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