May Breeze 2013

Awardees representing the Placencia Peninsula gather for a group shot at Bannister Caye. Left to Right: Natalie Ranguy of Chabil Mar holds Frontline Person of the Year award; Apolo Caliz of the Placencia BTIA’s Tourism Center holds Hospitality Award; Placencia BTIA Executive Director Jolie Pollard holds Placencia Lobsterfest award on behalf of the Placencia BTIA and the Placencia Village Council, Placencia BTIA Chairman Stewart Krohn holds Destination of the Year award on behalf of the Placencia BTIA and the Placencia Village Council; Maya Beach Hotel and Bistro Owners Ellen and John Lee hold Restaurant of the Year award, and Splash Dive Center Owners Patricia Ramirez and Ralph Capeling hold Tour Operator of the Year award. Lower right-corner: Singing Sands Inn Co-Owner Michael Kramer holds award for Small Hotel of the Year.

Sending up12 finalists and winning seven of nine categories, the Placencia Peninsula dominated the th Belize Tourism Board’s 12 Annual Tourism Awards. At an elegant ceremony held on May 18 at Bannister Caye, located a short boat ride away from Belize City, Placencia stirred the 230 guests with an impressive string of wins.

The Maya Beach Bistro won their consecutive award for Restaurant of the Year and Splash Dive Center won a second Tour Operator of the Year Award. Natalie Ranguy of Chabil Mar collected the resort’s consecutive award for Frontline Person of the Year, (The award was given to Althea Schable in 2011.) and the Placencia Tourism Center (PTC) was recognized again for its excellence in service,

winning the Hospitality Award. (The PTC won Best Receptive Award in 2009.)

Placencia also raked in awards for newly introduced categories, Destination of the Year, presented to Placencia Village and Major Festival of the Year, presented to the Placencia Lobsterfest. Singing Sands Inn also won its first Small Hotel of the Year award.

Other finalists from the Placencia Peninsula were Anne Marie McNeil of Avadon Divers for Tour Guide of the Year, Avadon Divers and Placencia Eagle Ray Tours for Tour Operator of the Year, A Belizean Nirvana for Small Hotel of the Year and Chabil Mar for Hotel of the Year.

Defeating Placencia in only two categories were San Ignacio Hotel for Hotel of the Year and Jerome Williams of Huracan Diving for Tour Guide of the Year. And to add a little sizzle to the fire, we’d like to note that Jerome has worked as a tour guide in Placencia. ▪

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 2

TOURIST Reaction: “If Placencia became a regular stop for cruise ships would you be more inclined or less inclined to vacation here again?”

“Less inclined. You will lose tourism if you get cruise ships.”

- Sheila B. from USA

URL: http://issuu.com/ theplacenciabreeze

“Less inclined. We are here because there are no cruise ships.” - Susan McGuire and Sheila B.

PUBLISHER: The Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (Placencia BTIA)

from USA

“Less inclined because it will become like any other tourist place.

More people, higher prices and more pollution.”

- Kaija and boyfriend from Germany

“Neutral. Doesn’t matter.”

- Lisa & Raquel from USA

DISTRIBUTION: The Placencia Breeze is available free of charge at the Placencia Tourism Center, the Philip Goldson International Airport, nationwide airstrips and resorts, guesthouses, restaurants and bars, gift shops, banks and other businesses on the Placencia Peninsula. The Placencia Breeze has a print circulation of 2,000, as well as a large online web audience.

PLACENCIA BTIA/PLACENCIA BREEZE STAFF: Jolie Pollard Executive Director and Editor in Chief Apolo Caliz Financial and Membership Officer CHIEF VOLUNTEER PHOTOGRAPHER: Muzamanzie Photography PLACENCIA BTIA BOARD: Stewart Krohn, Chairman Steve Christensen, Vice Chairman David Vernon, Treasurer Doran Yount, Secretary Salva Zabaneh, Councilor lsa Villanueva, Councilor Evan Hall, Councilor PRINTER: The Reporter Press, Belize City, Belize The Placencia Breeze The Placencia Tourism Center, Placencia Village, Stann Creek, Belize.

Phone: 523- 4045; E-mail: info@placencia.com or director@placencia.com Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Monday through Friday Support the Breeze!

ADVERTISE! BTIA Membership Discounts Available

“Less inclined, but maybe some vendors will be happy.” Max Smith from USA

The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) would like to invite the public to presentations and discussions on the Belize Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan. This national Plan is mandated under the Coastal Zone Management Act, and determines the suitability of coastal land use for sustainable development along the entire coastal zone of Belize. The Plan has been under preparation for the past two years, with input from local residents, scientific experts, and government agencies. CZMAI would now like to offer the Plan for public review and receive your input in order to finalize the Plan. Please join us at the community meeting scheduled for your region between May 16, 2013-June 12, 2013. Meetings will start at 6 PM unless indicated otherwise. For more information contact us at Tel. 223-5739/0713 or check out our website: www.coastalzonebelize.org.

Don’t forget to “like” us on Facebook for all updates.

Region

Date

Location

Venue

Southern Region: Includes: Monkey River, Punta Negra, Barranco & Cattle Landing

4/6/2013

Punta Gorda Town

Parish Hall

South Central Region Includes: Seine Bight, Independence, Maya Beach, Riversdale

5/6/2013

Placencia Peninsula

Placencia Village Community Center

South Northern RegionIncludes: Hopkins & Sittee River

6/6/2013

Dangriga Town

Sacred Heart Parish Hall

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 3

Grant Helps 25 Students Participate in Tour Guide Course

By Lisa Carne MSc Student of Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development at University of Belize/University of West Indies, lisasinbelize@gmail.com The Placencia Tour Guide Association (PTGA) was awarded its second grant from the Community Management of Protected Areas Conservation Programme (COMPACT) last November 2012. After successful implementation of its first grant from COMPACT in 2008-2009 titled “Promoting the protection, conservation and sustainable use of the marine resources of the Belize Barrier Reef System through Advanced Training and Education for Marine Tour Guides on the Placencia Peninsula” (BZ$82,576), the PTGA was eligible and awarded BZ$100,000 for its current project: “Building capacity for key stakeholder communities of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System-World Heritage Site to promote sustainable marine tourism on the Placencia Peninsula.”

The first phase of this project was completing the Belize Tourism Board Tour Guide Training Course with local instructor David Vernon. The 25 participants went through a lengthy selection and application process and spent three nights a week for almost four months in the classroom, which was generously donated by the Southern Environmental Association (SEA).

Expert instructor David Vernon enriched the mandatory curricula by adding several field trips: Mountain Pine Ridge, Cockscomb, southern ruins/caves and a marine trip. Instructor fees and field costs were covered by the grant from COMPACT, (with

DAVE VERNON

Students gather at the Maya temple of Nim Li Punit located in the Toledo district. This was one of several field trips added to the BTB Tour Guide Training Course curricula.

certain course fees waived by BTB) and participants contributed by purchasing their manual, joining PTGA and covering their own licensing fees and associated costs (police records, photographs, etc.).The mandatory first aid/CPR course will also be covered by the COMPACT grant and offered

end of June, to coincide with BTB’s new policy of yearly renewals every July. Once participants have received their BTB Tour Guide license, a complete list of participants will be shared. Until then, PTGA and COMPACT wanted to show their support and Please see Upcoming Tour Guides on page 28

Industry GOSSIP … we’ve got the latest shush on Placencia ...

Amazing deal for LOCALS at Los Porticos Villas!

Expires on June 15, 2013.

Get a $1,600 BZ package for just $499.99 BZ! Package includes a two-night stay in a luxurious two-bedroom Ocean View Villa (including 9% hotel tax), a bottle of sparkling wine, two one-hour massages, and a 50% coupon on food at a local restaurant (for two & must be used during your two night stay), and a $50 BZ Bar Tab at the resorts’ Swim-up Pool Bar! (Some restrictions apply.)

Everyone seems to be getting their PIZZA on!

Izza time for pizza at the Purple Space Monkey!

Starting at only $22 BZ! Choose from their mouthwatering in-house list including Garden Primavera, Pepperoni, BBQ Chicken Ranch and Belizawaiian or create your own from their myriad extra toppings, then eat-in or take out! Call 523-3169 to order take out or rock up and enjoy their table service.

And, Turtle Inn now has 2 for 1 Sundays! Dine in or take out — Pizza hot line: 523-3486.

Have you heard? Barefoot Services has its main office on Main Street, Placencia Village. And they still have their service center north of the Placencia airstrip where they offer the convenience of picking up or dropping off rental units with advance notice.

And anyone who walks by their Main Street office will be sure to notice a wider selection of services: Rentals (auto, carts, mopeds, dirt bikes), private charters, and tours. You can rent units hourly, half day or on a full day basis. They’ll even transport you or your clients from Placencia to any destination within Belize! Talk about great service! P. 523-3066/6299602 or e-mail info@barefootservicesbelize.com

New Opening Hours at Danube Restaurant DANUBE Restaurant has new opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 4:30 p.m.

Danube is located just 100 yards north of Robert’s Grove Beach Resort. P: 610-0132, e-mail restaurant@danubebelize.com, visit www.danubebelize.com

Famous face at MAYA BEACH HOTEL AND BISTRO! He’s everyone’s favorite Facebook personality and now Cleeve Westby has joined the Guest Services team at the Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro! Note: Only RAVES allowed.

Coconut Cottages: Kay Westby says friendly vacation pets are awaiting your arrival!

Laru Beya Resort: Need a venue for your next meeting or presentation? Book Laru Beya’s new conference room!

Shush Highlight from the Nautical Inn: This Seine Bight resort has announced some big changes. Their restaurant is now called the Getaway Grill and is open all day. Management plans to expand the seating area from 28 to 70 allowing space for special events like wedding receptions, etc.

Their new executive chef, Cesar Ivan Gomez, brings a wealth of experience in the culinary arts from Jaguar Reef Lodge, El Centro Bar and Grill, Thrill on the Grill and The Smokey Mermaid Restaurant.

New restaurant manager, Ricky Coh is a well known industry professional on the Peninsula carrying many years of experience at Robert's Grove and The Green Parrot Beach Houses. And there’s more on PIZZA. Yup. Nautical Inn is caught up in the frenzy too and will be featuring pizza nights … they say that their dough and sauce are made from recipes developed over many years and have always been well received.

Who’s got the best pizza in Placencia? You’ll just have to try them all and find out! (Give The Galley Restaurant and Bar, Mango’s and Fat Boyz a try too!) The Getaway Grill is open six days a week (closed on Mondays), 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. P. 523-3595 for reservations or other information.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 4

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 5

Frankie has the solution to your real estate question!

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 6

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 7

Summer Brings Bounty of Wild Fruits to Placencia

By Lyra Spang lyraspang@yahoo.com

- Spang is a Belizean anthropologist currently completing her dissertation research on food and tourism in Placencia. She is also the co-owner of Cayequest Tours, a boutique company offering food -inspired land and sea excursions for small groups.

O

ne of Placencia Peninsula’s best kept secrets is the many wild fruit trees which cover the undeveloped areas of the peninsula from Riversdale in the north to Placencia Village in the south. Along with live oaks, pimienta palms, gumbo limbo and zericote trees, these wild fruit and nut bearing species form the peninsula’s fast disappearing and highly endangered littoral forest. This unique ecosystem protects the peninsula from erosion and hosts many beautiful birds, reptiles and even mammals including coatimundi, gray fox, agouti, raccoons, opossums, armadillos and even the occasional gibnut.

Additionally it provides people with the prolific cashew and beach almond, delicious sea grape, puffy yet palatable cocoplum, fragrant guava, overpowering noni, tart blackberry and intensely flavoured craboo fruits that we enjoy fresh and processed into sweets, wines and impromptu betweenmeal snacks. While visitors walking down the road or sidewalk may quickly spot coconut trees growing along the streets and in the yards of Placencia Village, the fruits of the littoral forest are often overlooked as is the important role they play in the food culture and natural environment of the peninsula.

Cashews Some of these feral fruits are hard to miss. As I type these words in late April, trees across the peninsula are loaded with ripening yellow and red cashews.

The characteristic nut is an inverted gunmetal gray smurf hat hanging off the bottom of the shiny brightly colored fruit which botanically speaking is actually a thickened, juicy and flavorful flower pedical. Cashew trees (Anacardium occidentale) vary in height from small dooryard trees to spreading hurricane gnarled specimens reaching up to 32 feet high. Thought to originate in northern Brazil, they are found across Central America and the Caribbean. Cashew trees form part of the littoral forest running along the peninsula road and are also found in empty lots and people’s yards. They bear heavily during the late dry season (April and May) and the characteristic scent of fallen ripe fruit which cover

MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Ripening yellow cashews are among many other summer fruits on the Placencia Peninsula which can often be overlooked for the important role they play in the local food culture and the natural environment.

the ground under the trees can be easily detected as one rides or walks the peninsula road.

While local green parakeets enjoy eating raw cashew nuts, don’t be tempted to bite into the seed yourself, as the cashew nut before proper processing contains a caustic oil called anacardic acid which is closely related to the oil found in poison ivy. Some people on the peninsula do collect and process the seeds by roasting them on metal sheets over an open fire. This roasting procedure drives out the oils, but one must make sure to always stand upwind of the nuts as the smoke they give off may contain anacardic acid which if inhaled can damage the lungs. In order to avoid that possibility, I suggest that if you want to sample some premium quality Belizean cashews that you ask for them at local grocery stores.

While the seeds may best be left to the experts, the “accessory” or “false” fruit, also called the cashew

“apple”, is enjoyed by many not only in Belize but across the region. Called marañón in Spanish speaking countries, the very juicy and fragrant flesh is pressed to extract the juice which is sweetened to taste and served over ice. On the peninsula cashew juice is traditionally used to make wine, a strong and sweet beverage guaranteed to give you “goma” (a hangover) if consumed in quantity. The wine is a great for cooking and as a marinade, as is homemade cashew vinegar. You can buy a bottle of wine at any local grocery store, or during cashew season head to the Danube Restaurant for their “Devil’s Fruit Martini” or the bar at Los Porticos for their cashew cocktail.

While not everyone enjoys the flavour, which one person described as “notes of mango, raw green pepper, and just a little hint of grapefruit”, some love biting into a fully ripe cashew apple. If you decide to try it, make sure to stand over a sink as they are full of juice which will run everywhere. I find the best way to eat a cashew fruit is to simply chew on it and swallow the juice, then spit out the pulp. If you are sensitive to poison ivy or have allergies to mangos or pistachios (relatives of the cashew in the Anacardiaceae family) you should probably avoiding trying the fruit as it contains trace amounts of the same oil present in the cashew seed.

My absolute favorite preparation of the cashew fruit is to slowly stew it in brown sugar with a few whole allspice seeds until the sugar and cashew juice form a thick syrup and the fruit is soft and dark, its characteristic bold flavor tempered and enhanced by the sweetness. Stew cashew, as it is known across Belize, is fantastic spooned over plain yogurt, layered with cheese on a freshly made Johnny cake, or just eaten by the spoonful. Unfortunately it is rarely available in restaurants or stores, but if you ask around in the village or consult with your local tour guide, someone will have an auntie or grandma who is stewing some up right now and would be glad to sell you a jar or two. It is worth the search!

Mangoes

Bartender Stoney of Los Porticos Villas carries a glass of Cash’em (Cashew Gin). The Cash’em uses local mango and cashew. For children stayting at the resort, Los Porticos also prepares delicious mango smoothies using different types for a burst of flavour.

Recipe for Los Porticos’ Cash’ Em In (Cashew Gin)

Danube Restaurant’s Devil’s Seduction Martini is prepared with frozen cashew juice, Baileys and vodka.

2 oz of freshly squeezed Cashew Juice 1 oz gin 1 oz vodka 2 oz coconut water 1 tsp sugar cane syrup Splash of lime and soda Garnish with a slice of cashew fruit

A related fruit which is also ripening now across the peninsula is the mango, Mangifera indica. There are hundreds of varieties of mangos, each with their own taste, size, shape and unique name. In Placencia village you can find blue mangoes; black mangoes; white mangoes; the slipper shaped thundershaw; the famous Julie mango; the tiny sweet judge-wig; apple mango, so named because of its round shape; the garlic mango, which has a slight garlicky aftertaste when you bite into it; hairy mango with its long stringy fibers; the hybrids Number 11 and 13; the Hayden and the so named common mango. Common mango trees can reach a hundred feet high, but thanks to Hurricane Iris none of that size remain on the peninsula. Mangoes and cashews are both memPlease see Placencia’s Wild Fruits on page 9.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 8

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 9

Placencia’s Wild Fruits Continued from page 7

MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

JOLIE POLLARD

(Above Left:) Bunch of young green mangoes hang from tree branch in Seine Bight Village. (Right:) Ripe purple seagrapes are often sold in small bags by local villagers.

bers of the Anacardiaceae family but while cashews are native to the Americas, mangoes were brought to the Caribbean from their native India. Perhaps for this reason, while this extremely popular fruit can be found growing wild as part of the littoral forest it is most often encountered planted in someone’s yard or growing in empty lots and along the roadside.

Apart from enjoying the fresh ripe fruit off the tree, local preparations include stewing the entire peeled fruit, seed and all, in brown sugar. Full but unripe or partially ripe mangoes are peeled; the flesh sliced off the seed, put in a plastic bag with salt and/or hot pepper and sold on the street as a popular snack. This ubiquitous combination of green mango and salt is a treat found in homes across the country. Green mangoes are also made into delicious mango chutney.

Green mangoes cooked into a sauce with brown sugar and cinnamon taste almost exactly like applesauce. During mango season, which typically runs from April through June/July you can find mangoes for sale at local fruit and vegetable stands and many restaurants on the peninsula showcase fresh mango in fruit salads, desserts and blended drinks.

Needless to say, during mango season Placencians and visitors alike eat all they can of this delicious fruit.

Seagrapes Another delicious denizen of the littoral forest and beaches of Placencia and the offshore islands is the sea grape

(coccoloba uvifera), which is native to the Caribbean basin. This tree has an open spreading habit, round shiny salt resistant leaves and can reach 30 feet in height although, like the cashew, it is often shorter. The most salt resistant of Placencia’s wild fruits, this tree is often found growing right on the beach with its roots half in the sea. It is also common on islands across the country. A resilient tree, it is often used in beach landscaping as it can withstand heavy pruning. Sea-grapes are so named because the female trees bear small round dusky purple fruit in a cluster that reminded early European explorers of their beloved grapevines. Similarly to grapes, the sea-grape makes excellent wine and is sometimes homebrewed for that purpose. However it is most commonly collected for making a tasty purple jelly or sold by the bag for eating out of hand. The fruit has a large hard seed and a relatively small amount of purple, sweet-tart flesh, although some trees have smaller seeds than others. If you look under a fruiting sea grape you will find a carpet of purple fruits nesting in the sand, ready to be eaten. Just be sure to wash the sand off first! Sea-grape picking is a popular pastime for children and families during the season which normally falls around August and September.

Birds love sea-grapes and during the season can be found noisily competing for them in the littoral forest. If you visit the peninsula at this time you may find street vendors selling sea-grapes by the bag out of a five gallon bucket. Give them a try!

Please see Placencia’s Wild Fruits on page

MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Seagrapes are the most salt resistant of all Placencia’s wild fruits.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 10

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 11

Issaac Ritchie Places Third in BzSA Honey Camp Regatta Placencia Optimist Sailor Isaac Ritchie placed third in the 2013 Honey Camp Lagoon held on April 27 and 28 in Orange Walk. Other competitors representing the Placencia Sailing Club were: Carlos Villotoro, Carla Lopez, Tyler Garbutt, Victor Conteraras and Wilson Rivera Placing first was Tony Ricardez, Jr. of Buttonwood Bay Nazarene Primary (BBNP) School Club, second, Trent Hardwick of Sea Scouts and fourth, Nashira Ricardez of BBNP. The event was organized by the Sailing Committee of the Belize Sailing Association. ▪

PLACENCIA SAILING CLUB

Thirteen-year-old Isaac Ritchie receives plenty of support from his mother, Jacquelin Manzanero, who is also an active fundraiser for the Placencia Sailing Club.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 12

CAPTAIN SHARK’S REPRESENTATIVE IN SOUTH BELIZE

The Placencia Breeze ‖ May 2013 ‖ Page 13

Party Animals Support Placencia Humane Society Fundraiser

By Patricia Celenza PHS Member, placlibr@btl.net The Barefoot Bar literally shook during the Placencia Humane Society’s fourth annual Furball furndraiser!

Popular local guitarist and singer, Graham Berry kept the crowd on their feet and bouncing to the beat. Master Plumber and event master of ceremonies, Dick Walton, had the crowd on edge as he announced over 120 donated prizes -- talk about generosity! Talk about giving! Talk about caring!

The record breaking donations and enthusiastic turnout for the Furball proved what a difference PHS is making in the health and well being of all the animals up and down Placencia Peninsula.

Did you miss the Furball? Well, it is never too late to show your support for the volunteer-based good work PHS does for you and your beloved pets. Drop off your cash or checks with Candy Power at Car Rental of Placencia or Sabrina Kelly at the Secret Garden Restaurant, or Doran Yount as he whizzes by in his truck.

Visit www.placenciahumanesocietybelize.org where you find everything PHS—news, updates, photos, stories! ▪

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 14

Placencia Humane Society Recognizes Fourth Annual Furball Raffle Donors Check out the amazing official list of all raffle prize donors --yes, the list goes on and on -- and continue to support all your neighbors who gave with open pocketbooks and hearts! Thank you—we could not have done it without each and every one of you! PHS is proud to be a vital part of the Placencia Peninsula community.

Donors: Siripohn, Jaguar Lanes, Rob- Belize Sailing Charters, Laru Beya Quarterdeck Restaurant, Secret Garden Restaurant, Avadon Dive Shop, Green Parrot, Patricia Celenza, Capt. Jack's Rentals, Linda Thornton of Cardelli Shrimp Farms, Ysela at Z Touch, Belize Pet World, Lola's Art, Secret Garden Spa, Nite Wind Tours, Brenda's Caribbean Cooking, Max's Gift Shop, Jon the Bakerman, Lil Bugga's Music Services, Dawn's Grill n Go, Treasure Box, Tutti Fruiti, Home Art Shop, One World Rentals, Pickled Parrot, Harbour Hideaway - Cindy Weller, David Kafka Remax, Jaguar Tattoo - Rob Monk & Anton Leslie, Seaspray/De Tatch, A Piece of Belize Wood Carvings, Papaya Boutique, The Art Affair, Wendy's Restaurant, Placencia Office Supply, Friends at the Pier, Above Grounds Coffee House, Wallens’s Pharmacy, Harold Wallen -Wallens Hardware/ Grocery, Rumfish, Placencia Bazaar Gift Shop, Omars’ Restaurant, Anna’s Fashion Boutique, La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant, Denyse’s Originals, Cozy Corner/

PAM THOMAS

Above: Eugene Upham of the Pickled Parrot Bar won the entertaining Party Animal Costume Competition wearing a unique and creative Party Bird costume.

Kul, Stone Cold Daiquiris, Sunova Gift Shop, Rainbow Pieces Party Supplies/Samantha, J Dee’s Restaurant/Ms. Daisy, Tipsy Tuna – Gill, Brewed Awakenings Coffee Stand/Natalie & Ryan, Joy Tours/Tuca, Splash Dive Center, Turtle Inn Resort, Barbi Phillips, Paradise Resort, Hatchet Caye Resort, Crow’s Nest, Seaglass Inn, Placencia Cabanas, Cake Chics, Kristine Small – Blissful Feet, The Shak, The Flying Pig, Goss Chocolate, Destinations Belize – Mary Toy, Maya Beach Bistro, Chabil Mar, Los Porticos, Danube Restaurant, Lost Reef Resort, Casa Placencia, Placencia Tourism Center, Whipray Caye, David Ford and Associates, Leslie Tech Services, Charly’s Gifts, Decked Out House, The Artful Dodger, The Galley Restaurant, Dan Dunbar CPC Real Estate, Purple Space Monkey, Seakunga, Barnacle Bill’s, Miller’s Landing, Mango’s, Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club, Ally’s Guesthouse, Nautical Inn, Penny Dial, Marethe McCulloch, Placencia Adventures, D Tours- Doyle, Habanero’s, Robert’s Grove, Art ‘N Soul, Moorings, Moorings Sunsail, Fantoni’s Kitchen, Kay Westby, Fragments of Hope, Westwind Hotel, Deana Ramsam, Remax and Martha Scott ▪

Chabil Mar Awards Employees of the Month

Jose Amaya and Synescio Coh, Jr., Food & Beverage Servers, are recognized for their outstanding service to our guests! Certifications presented by Synescio Coh, General Manager, and Bernard Blades, Food & Beverage Manager.

Some of Chabil Mar’s guests reeled in a few ocean jacks on a fishing trip and donated their catch to the staff at Chabil Mar. Then we all took a dinner cruise on the lagoon to celebrate that evening.

The Guest Exclusive Resort of Placencia WWW.CHABILMARVILLAS.COM Tel: (011 501) 523 - 3606 Fax: (011 501) 523 - 3611 US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377 reservations@chabilmarvillas.cm

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 15

Placencia Peninsula Maps From North of Placencia Airstrip to Riversdale

From Placencia Water Tower to Airstrip Platinum Designs

Lost Reef Resort

ic A Trop

Beachfront Suites

land a Is Ma y

ir

Placencia Mini Storage The Placencia Hotel & Residences

P

Placencia Tennis

Traveling north to Maya Beach will take you to the Plantation area approximately 2.5 miles

en lac

cia

rip

st Air

RFG Insurance Agent Avadon Divers

The Placencia Road

Ocean’s Edge Los Porticos Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro Green Parrot Beach Houses Joyce & Frank’s Bed & Breakfast

Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows Singing Sands Inn

Turtle Inn

Seaview Properties Splash Dive Center, Ltd.

Cocoplum Vacation Rentals Cocoplum Resort Community The Villas at Cocoplum Mission Bay Christian Retreat

The Surfside Escape Resort

The Maine Stay Cordy’s Beach Cottage Palmtree Designs

Goss Chocolate Blue Crab Beach Bahia Laguna Beach Suites Nautical Inn

Lola’s Art Danube, Austrian Restuarant

Seine Bight Village Robert's Grove Beach Resort Laru Beya Villas

The Moorings Belize

Miller’s Landing

Casa Nettuno Wild Orchid Properties

Placencia Airstrip Caribbean Breeze Coolspot

The Flying Pig Barefoot Rentals

Get your Placencia Mooring Masters T-shirt at the Placencia Tourism Center and Sunova Beach Gift Shop.

Profits help protect our Barrier Reef .

Chabil Mar

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 16

Placencia BTIA Members 2013 BUSINESS NAME A Belizean Nirvana Aba Ubafu (One Power) Above Ground Coffee Artful Dodger Sail & Canvas Avadon Divers Ltd Barefoot Bar Barefoot Services Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows BB Yoga Flow Belize Luxury Travel and Beyond Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club Belize Trips Blue Crab Beach Resort Blue Garden House Boris Mannsfeld & Associates Caliz, Apolo Captain Jak’s Cabanas Car Rental of Placencia Caribbean Travel & Tours Casa Beya/Sea Grape Escape Casa Del Sol Casa Nettuno Casa Placencia Celeste, Donna Chabil Mar Villas Charly’s Gifts Coconut Cottage Cocoplum Cocoplum Vacation Rentals Cohen, Howard & Karen Colibri House Coston, Debbie Courtenay Coye LLP CPC Real Estate Solution Danube Austrian Restaurant De Barcelona Beach Tapas Bar De Viners Decked Out House Destinations Belize Dial, Elysia Dial, Mary Ann Dolce Cabana Dusa, Lee & Gail Easy Living Apartments Eloise’s Travel Lodge Fairs, Rick & Brigitte Feldman, Babe & Karen Finca Ford, David French Louie Caye Friedeck, Mike & Maureen Friends Near the Pier Fuller, Fred & Jacque Gabor, Deborah Galipeau, Cheryl Garden Cabanas George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse Glessner, Virginia & Fox, Jay Glockhamer, Heidi & Fasano, Steven Go Tees Goss Chocolate Green Parrot Beach Houses Grill N Go Guild & Guild Consulting Harbour Hideaway of Placencia Harry’s Cozy Cabanas Hatchet Caye Resort Heaven’s Gate Beach Bungalow Hess, Tina Hideaway Caye Hughes, Sharon Jaguar Lanes J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar Jewel of Placencia John Ford dba Cordy’s Beach Cottages Joy Tours Joyce and Frank’s Beach House Koster, Liliana Tarpon Caye Belize La Caribe Laru Beya Villas Las Amigas Leslie Tech Services Lola’s Art Los Porticos Villas Lost Reef Resort Lydia’s Guest House Lynn Jackson & Doug Simons Manatee Inn Mark Risk dba The Arches Master Plumbing Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro Maya Dream Beach House Maya Lodge Michelo Flats Miller’s Landing Miramar Apartments Mirasol Villa Mission Bay Christian Retreat MnM Hardware Placencia Mosquito Coast Trading Co. Ltd.

EMAIL belizeanirvana@gmail.com seinebight@gmail.com keithgmorrison@gmail.com wmertensbelize@gmail.com info@avadondiversbelize.com barefootbarbz@gmail.com info@barefootservicesbelize.com taylors@btl.net info@bbyogaflow.com desorine@gmail.com belize@tradewindscruiseclub.com info@belize-trips.com sales@bluecrabbeach.com info@belizecottagerentals.com bmannsfeld@yahoo.com wildboyapolo@hotmail.com theluckyerin22@yahoo.com powerscandy@hotmail.com info@ctbelize.com info@casabeyabelize.com info@casadelsolbelize.com

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The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 17 Nauta Vero PR & Communications Nautical Inn Ocean’s Edge One World Rental s Palmetto Bay Resort Palmtree Designs Papaya Boutique Paradise Vacation Hotel Peninsula Citizens for Sustainable Dev. Placencia Adventures by Land or by Sea Placencia Eagle Ray Tours Placencia Humane Society Placencia Mini Storage Platinum Designs Placencia Pizza Placencia Tennis Placencia Yacht Club Property Pro Belize Quest for Adventure in Belize w/ Splash Ltd. Ranguana Lodge Re/Max Belize Property Center Robert’s Grove Robert Nicolait & Associates, Ltd. Rumfish y Vino Seahorse Dive Shop Sea Glass Inn Seaspray Hotel Seaview Suites Secret Garden Day Spa Secret Garden Restaurant Silver Leaf Singing Sands Inn Siripohn Thai Massage Smith, Stan & Mary Southern Environmental Association South Waters Resort Spectarte Gallery Spilman, Ron Splash Dive Center Sunset Pointe Condos Taylor, Rand Taylor, Winston The Added Touch The Arches The Flamboyant The Flying Pig The Maine Stay The Moorings The North Beach The Pickled Parrot The Placencia Hotel & Residences The Purple Space Monkey Bar & Grill The Shak Beach Café The Surfside Escape Resort The Villas at Cocoplum The Yellow House Three Iguanas Villa Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar Toucan Lulu Tony’s Gym Tooth Fairy Dental Clinic Tradewinds Tree of Life Trip N Travel Turtle Inn Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor Vern’s Kitchen Village Inn Waterfront Real Estate Westwind Hotel Whipray Caye Lodge White Sand Villa Wild Orchid Properties Yellow Bella Yoli’s Bar Yount, Doran & Kim Z-Touch Day Spa

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The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 18

get ready for the best festival in Belize ...

PLACENCIA LOBSTERFEST, JUNE 28-29-30, 2013 DECLARED MAJOR FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR AT 2013 NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS

A Belizean Nirvana 55-D4 Above Ground Coffee 18-C4 Artful Dodger Sail & Canvas 92-A2 Barefoot Bar 38-D3 Belize Sailing Charters 99-C4 Belize Tradewinds Cruise Club 98-A2 Blue Garden House 88-E2 Blue Lagoon Apartments 80-D3 Boris Mannsfeld & Associates 97-C4 Captain Jak’s Cabanas 52-D2 Caribbean Travel & Tours 8-D3 Casa Del Sol 76-F3 Casa Placencia 81-F2 Century21 BTAL 93-B4 Coconut Cottage 54-D4 Colibri House 55-E3 CPC Reality 43-C3 Destinations Belize 42-C4 De Barcelona 21-D3 DeViners 19-E3 Dianni’s Guesthouse 56-B3 Easy Living Apartments 57-C4 Eloise’s Guesthouse 58-C3 French Louie Caye 33-D3 Garden Cabanas 60-B3 George Cowdrey’s Guesthouse 89-E3 Grill & Go 17-C3 Guild & Guild Consulting 10-F2 Harbor Hideaway 88-E1 Harry’s Cozy Cabanas 61-B3 Hatchet Caye 35-E5 Hatchet Caye Office 35-C1 J-Dees Restaurant & Bar 20-D3 Jewel of Placencia 27-C4 Joy Tours 44-C3 Julia’s Cabanas 62-E3 Tarpon Caye Lodge 45-E3 Tarpon Caye Main Office 46-D3 Las Amigas 26-E3 Leslie Tech Service 46-D3 Lydia’s Guesthouse 64-E3 Manatee Inn 65-F3 Maya Lodge 66-E2 Michelo Flats 67-F2 Miramar Apartments 68-E3 Mirasol Villa 69-C4 MnM Hardware Placencia 96-D3 One World Rental 70-C4 Paradise Vacation Resort 71-B3 PCSD 47-E2 Placencia Bazaar 7-D3 Placencia Yacht Club 34-A5 Property Pro Belize 43-C3 Ranguana Lodge 30-E3 Re/Max Property Center 39-D3 Rumfish y Vino 43-C3 Seahorse Dive Shop 48-D4 Seaspray Hotel 79-E3 Sea View Suites 63-C4 Secret Garden Day Spa 4-C3 Secret Garden Restaurant & Bar 24-C3 Silver Leaf 90-E2 Siripohn Thai Massage 8-D3 Southern Environmental Association 95-D3 Sunset Pointe Condos 40-A1 Splash Dive Center 49-C4 The Arches 86-E5 The Flamboyant 28-C4 The Galley Restaurant & Bar 59-B3 The North Beach 73-E3 The Purple Space Monkey 41-C3 The Shak Beach Café 16-C4 The Yellow House 74-D3 The Village Inn 31-F3 Three Iguanas Villa 86-E2 Tony’s Gym/Belize Fit 17-E3 Toucan Lulu 75-F3 Tree of Life 8-D3 Trip N Travel 51-C4 Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor 43-C3 Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar 15-C4 Westwind Hotel 78-D4 Whipray Caye Lodge 32-E5 White Sand Villa 82-C3 Yello Bella 29-F2 Yoli’s Bar 21-B3 Z-Touch Day Spa 6-D3

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 19

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The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 20

California Friends Raise Funds to Support Reef Safety

By Marion Carr PMM Coordinator, muzamanzie@gmail.com As many know, the Placencia Mooring Masters (PMM) rely on donations and fundraisers to fund our anchor mooring project. The fundraisers hosted by California Friends of PMM are particularly important, as the monies they collect are often used to purchase equipment and materials unavailable here in Belize.

In April, California Friends of PMM did an outstanding job raising around $1,000USD for PMM at their Spring Benefit for the Belize Barrier Reef. Held on April 13 in San Francisco, USA, three lucky winners in the event’s raffle won destination prize packages to the Placencia Peninsula. Ryan Wilson won the grand four-night Maya Beach package prize; Antonia Sloan won a twonight Discover Placencia Village package, and Paul Davy won the Dive Placencia Village Prize package. None of these raffle prizes would have been possible without the support from local businesses.

PMM would like to effusively thank the following businesses for their support and donations: Green Parrot Beach Houses, Belizean Nirvana, Captain Jaks, D-Tourz, Joy Tours, Dive Roberts Grove, Maya Beach Bistro, Jaguar Lanes Bowling Alley, Danube Restaurant, Barefoot Bar, Dawn’s Grill N Go, Tipsy Tuna Beach & Sports Bar, Secret Garden Massage Spa, Tree of Life Massage Studio, Massage Therapist Patricia Celenza, Barefoot Services & Car Rental of Placencia.

PMM plans to purchase a new underwater compact camera for the project, so we can show all our supporters underwater shots of our PMM guys working for you. We also plan to purchase - from the USA supplier of anchor mooring equipment - 7/8” rope used for pick up lines and hardware and 7/8” galvanized heavy duty thimbles. We can never have enough of these heavy duty 7/8” thimbles, so if you want to help by donating to the project and you are traveling to Placencia on vacation and have room to carry one or two of these thimbles in your luggage, we would be very grateful! Something as simple as not enough hardware components can and has held up maintenance of the installed buoys as we are unable to get them easily in Belize. On that note we would like to thank Beverly and Julian Cabral for donating two thimbles, which they carried in their luggage en route from the USA to Belize.

Please check out our Facebook page for news and needs for the project. www.facebook.com/pages/Placencia-Moorings-Masters-PMM-PlacenciaBelize/180812697135 ▪

Purchase your PMM wristbands at the Placnecia Tourism Center for only $10 BZD!

Placencia Mooring Masters is a voluntary community based organization, protecting the greater Placencia Belize reef system from drop anchor damage, through installing, m aintaining and promoting the use of anchor mooring buoys.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 21

Placencia’s Wild Fruits Continued from page 9 Coco plums Often found growing check by jowl with sea-grapes and cashews in the littoral forest, the large shrub/ small tree known locally as the coco plum (chrysobalanus icaco) is also native to the Caribbean Basin. Small, leathery salt tolerant leaves densely cover its iron hard branches. Coco plums can be trimmed into dense hedges and form thickets within the littoral forest that house many different bird species, lizards including iguanas and small mammals. Trees bear at different times and from April through October it is usually possible to find ripe coco plums somewhere. It is so common on the peninsula that at least one real estate development has named itself after the tenacious shrub. Their fruit can vary widely in shape, color and sweetness, but birds love them all. Some coco plums are as large as a golf ball and pale rosy pink; others are pitch black or white and the size of a Greek olive.

What they all have in common is a hard seed in the center and soft white almost cotton-ball textured flesh inside a thin skin.

Flavor ranges from almost tasteless to very sweet with a very low acid content. Small black and white coco plums seem to be the sweetest. Sugar content isn’t a problem however as even the most insipid coco plums taste good after being stewed down with brown sugar. The flesh melts into an enchanting rich sweet softness that is often eaten with milk but is equally delicious by itself. Stewed coco plums are cooked whole, so once you suck the flesh off the seed, you can break it open with your teeth and enjoy the syrup infused nut inside. The seeds are not edible when raw but the cooking process transforms them into a tasty treat. This is another delicacy that is traditionally made at home and not sold in stores or restaurants, but if you are in Placencia ask around for stewed coco plum and someone’s grandmother, auntie or cousin may be able to provide you with a sample.

JOLIE POLLARD

Coco plums can vary widely in shape, color and sweetness. Be sure to try all rosy pink, white and black ones.

Beach Almonds (“Hammonds”) The beach almond (Terminalia catappa) a common large leafed shade tree with a small buoyant nutbearing fruit, is found growing in the littoral forest, on nearby islands, in people’s yards and public spaces across the peninsula.

Originally native to the tropical regions of SouthEast Asia, Australia and Africa, this tree’s fruit has floated across oceans and been spread by humans and as a result is now found everywhere in the Caribbean and along the Central American coast. At this time of year, during the dry season, the leaves turn red and drop off the tree, providing a bright touch to the hot hazy days. Beach almonds are so named because inside the corky fruit is a small seed which tastes similar to an almond. Birds, squirrels and iguanas eat the thin layer of flesh outside the seed, and sometimes people will taste one as well.

The slightly tannic but sometimes surprisingly juicy and sweet flesh is more of a nibble than anything else.

When the ripe fruits fall to the ground they can be smashed open between two stones to reveal the

JOLIE POLLARD

A Beach Almond tree by Wallen’s Market is a popular spot for villagers to stay cool on hot, sunny days. Right corner: The beach almond fruit is enjoyed by people as well as many animals on the Peninsula.

tasty but small kernel inside. Unlike with cashews there is currently no commercial processing of these seeds in Belize, although internationally there has been interest in working out a more efficient system for utilizing the seeds as a food crop. In Belize the trees are usually planted as a fast growing and beloved shade tree-try standing under one on a hot day and you will learn to appreciate the beach almond as well!

Craboos Another well loved fruit found across the Caribbean, Central America and Belize is Byrsonima crassifolia or craboo, also known as nance. This large shrub or small tree can sometimes reach 30 feet in height but is more commonly found growing Please see Placencia’s Wild Fruits on page 22.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 22

Placencia’s Wild Fruits Continued from page 21

JOLIE POLLARD

Green craboos hang from tree branch. As they ripen to their yellow color, they’ll fall on the ground.

10-15 feet high. Craboo wood is very hard and is popular for smoking BBQ and making charcoal. An extremely common tree on the peninsula, it is found growing in yards and empty lots, along the roadside and as an integral part of the littoral forest. While ripe craboo can be found on the peninsula almost all year, most trees flower in late March, April and May and begin to bear ripe fruit in June and July until September. The clusters of small bright orange and yellow flowers turn into green cherrysized berries with a large hard seed. When fully yellow the fruits fall to the ground where they will continue to ripen turning darker, softer and almost translucent.

There are two general varieties, sweet and sour.

Sweet craboo are usually larger and have a sweeter taste, while sour craboo are tiny and distinctly sour on the tongue. Both varieties have a strong aroma and flavour which is an acquired taste-those who grow up with it love it, while some visitors may dislike the complex and strong odor. You won’t know until you try it, so if you get the chance, do!

Across Belize and Placencia Peninsula, craboo fruits are harvested from under and off the tree when fully yellow and then further ripened at room temperature. The fruit can also be placed in bottles that are then filled with water and stored in this way for up to a year without going bad. The fragrance of the fruit can fill a room, so make sure you like it before you bring some home. The fully ripe fruit are fermented whole in water to make wine, the partially fermented fruits are then strained off, stewed with sugar and sold by the bag. The fermentation lends the fruit a rum-soaked flavour and slight alcohol content. Fully ripe unfermented fruits are mashed with a bottle, which allows the large seeds to be removed, and the flavorful flesh is eaten with sweetened condensed milk as a treat. The same ripe craboo flesh makes delicious ice cream and is put in milkyways, a sweet milk-based treat frozen and sold in small plastic bags.

Bags of ripe or fermented craboo are commonly sold as a very popular snack across the country and on the roadside in Placencia.

sula are large shrubs or small trees with a pale bark that peels off in patches, iron hard wood and golf ball sized fruit that start out green and turn yellow and fragrant when ripe. The skin is soft; the flesh is soft and yellow or pink with hundreds of tiny hard seeds in a center cavity. While guavas may occasionally be found growing in the littoral forest, they are most commonly encountered in more open terrain: planted in people’s yards or growing along the roadside or in empty lots. Making guava jelly is an art that a choice group of ladies in Placencia Village have mastered. They have no problem disposing of all the jelly they make as everyone loves it with a fresh hot Johnny cake or tortilla or some Creole Bread. However I admit my favorite treat is not the jelly but rather guava jam. Made from the flesh of the fruit with the seeds scooped out this delicious concoction has even more of that spectacular guava

Into the 1960’s industrious Placencians used to sell bottles of craboo fruit, cashew wine and homemade coconut oil to passengers on the Heron H. and the Mayan Princess, transport boats which travelled from Punta Gorda to Belize City with stops at all coastal communities en route. Travelers Rum produces a Craboo Liquor which is available for sale in local grocery stores.

Guavas JOLIE POLLARD

The fragrant and heady guava Guavas growing wild in Placencia are often used to make a flavorful guava (Psidium guajava) is also native jelly — a popular condiment for the Kriol journey cakes and fry jacks. to Central America. Along with flavour and is amazing with cheese on any kind of passion fruit, guava fruits have a complex and enticbread or crackers. Locally produced guava jelly can ing scent and taste that I consider to be the epitome be found for sale at local grocery stores, especially of the tropics. So do many others, as guava jelly has become prized not only in Placencia, Belize, but Please see Placencia’s Wild Fruits on page 25 around the world. The guavas found on the penin-

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 23

New Organization in the South Forms to Sustain Maya Culture

By Amy Lichty

herbal medicine. Aurora Garcia Saqui explained how her great uncle, the famed Juuntulico’on Board Member, juuntulicoon@gmail.com healer Don Elijio Panti, coaxed her into becoming his apprentice and conveyed his vast When I first arrived in Placencia, I couldn’t wait to knowledge of the medicinal plants of Belize. She get to the beach. Within a short amount of time, I shared that most villages have the following “health was approached by a Maya woman selling her care” practitioners: midwife, herbalist who treats handiwork. I have since learned that Mayans make common illnesses, chiropractor who sets bones, and up approximately 10 to 12 percent of Belize’s popusnake doctor whose numbers are diminishing. lation and still practice the customs and practices of Aurora spoke with passion and emotion as she their ancestors. Their history is a rich one. As talked about her personal experiences being disprobably the best-known of the classical civilizacounted by medical doctors for using medicinal tions of Mesoamerica, ancient Maya culture inplants for healing. Nonetheless, she showed us sevcluded art, architecture, construction, urban design, eral plants and the illnesses they treat including writing and literature, mathematics, astronomy, agPrickly Pear to stimulate hair growth, Sour Sop for riculture and religion. cancer, Guava bark for diarrhea, the leaf as a disinfectant, and as a steam bath to heal a mother’s On May 4, 28 people gathered in Maya Centre to womb. She also explained that juice of the Poly attend a cultural event featuring herbal medicine, food preparation, native plants, and traditional music. The program was sponsored by Juuntulico’on (pronounced hoon tool’ ee con), a new non -profit Maya organization which means “one people”. The mission of Juuntulico’on is to sustain Maya culture for future generations.

AMY LICHTY

Maya Greeting

Participants Penny Scrutchin and Trish Herskowitz and got in on the action as they learned from young Maya women how to press corn dough into tortillas and cook them on the comal; a round, flat cooking surface.

In keeping with Maya practices, the participants were welcomed by Ernesto Saqui, Chair of Juuntulico’on, who led the invocation in his native Maya language. Ernesto explained that it is a custom to begin by giving thanks. That caused me to wonder if we all gave appreciation for what we have, including those people in our presence. We might have a greater sense of wellbeing, which could go a long way toward getting along. While he was speaking, his wife, Aurora, walked around the large thatched-roof meeting center with a clay pot burning copal. Copal is one of the sacred trees of the ancient Maya who used the aromatic resin for ceremonial incense. It was yet another way to clear the air and bring in positive energy. Immediately I knew the day would be a multi-sensory experience!

Nature’s Medicine The first program covered the healing practice of

ful aromas wafting from the kitchen, we were ready taste a traditional Maya buffet consisting of Bollos (chicken tamales), Caldo (Maya chicken soup), Ixpa’Cha (fish steamed in banana leaf), corn tortillas, local fruit, cabbage slaw, and sweet tortillas for dessert.

A Walking Tour of the Botanical Garden

Redhead leaf can be used like iodine on a cut. Aurora responded to questions and talked about the many remedies she prepares, including a bug repellant which drew a lot of interest!

When our bellies were sufficiently full, we went outdoors to tour the botanical garden. We learned from Ernesto (pictured above) how the Maya respect the rainforest for all it has to offer. As we walked through the garden he described the plant and how it was used. For survival, there was a vine that provides water and trees that produce fruit.

Many of the plants and trees were also identified for their healing properties. At the end of the tour participants learned how the rubber mallet used to play the marimba, a keyboard instrument much like the xylophone, is made from locally harvested rubber.

Traditional Maya Cuisine

Making Music

AMY LICHTY

Maya woman demonstrates roasting of cacao beans to visitors at the first Juuntulico’on fundraiser workshop.

AMY LICHTY

During his Botanical Garden tour, Ernesto Saqui of Maya Center Village explains the medicinal properties of rainforest plants.

A refreshing drink made with cacao, corn, water and spices was served in calabash gourd bowls before we proceeded to the outdoor kitchen to learn how to cook tortillas over an open fire. While that was happening, cacao beans were roasted in a pot. As they got hotter they popped, much like popcorn, causing most of us to jump and laugh at our “startle response”.

Later, eager on-lookers tried their hand at grinding the roasted beans into a chocolate paste. With wonder-

The final program of the day was the story of how Reyes Chun, from the southern district of Toledo, learned how to play the marimba from his father.

As is the practice in Maya villages, knowledge and skills are passed from parent to child. In addition to showing how the instrument is constructed, he demonstrated how to play each of three musical ranges (low, middle and high). Without any written music, the many songs Reyes has learned to play are committed to memory. After trying to play the bass section, I quickly realized that like any accomplished musician, it’s easier said than done.

Please see Juuntulico’on on page

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 24

How is Your Septic Tank? Master Plumber Tells All Every day, the average household can use up to 250 gallons of water for doing dishes, laundry, cooking and bathroom use. Restaurants can use more than 1,000 gallons a day and a hotel, even more.

Where does all that waste water in Placencia go?

For many families and businesses on the Placencia Peninsula, it goes into a septic tank and a soakaway or leach field. In fact, the only communities in Belize that have sewage systems are Belize City, Belmopan and San Pedro. In these municipalities, waste water runs through sophisticated underground systems and treated effluent goes out into the sea.

While there are plans to develop a new sewage collection, treatment and disposal system on the Placencia Peninsula, residents may still want to evaluate their current septic systems.

Like a sewage system, a properly constructed septic tank can also treat wastewater and prevent untreated effluent from reaching our water table underground, contaminating our lagoons and oceans. Unfortunately, many of us living on the Placencia Peninsula aren’t equipped with the right septic tanks, according to Dick Walton, owner of Master Plumbing in Placencia Village. Walton carries 30 years plumbing experience and 18 years holding a Master Plumbing License, which he obtained while working in his hometown in the United States.

According to Walton, most of us have a one chamber septic tank and some have a two chamber tank.

“Both of those are not good for this area,” said Walton.

THE PLACENCIA BREEZE

Diagram 2: A three-chamber septic tank allows waste water to separate into layers of sludge, effluent and scum providing ample time for bacteria treatment before effluent seeps into soakaway.

ardous disease-causing bacteria. Walton noted that three-chamber septic tanks are available for purchase on the Placencia Peninsula. “It might cost a bit more than a one or two chamber tank, but it is more cost efficient in the long run and better for our environment,” said Walton. Walton drew a comparison between a 1,500 gallon three chamber tank and an 800 gallon one chamber tank servicing 10 adults on a daily basis. “The three -chamber tank would need to be pumped every five years; whereas, the one-chamber tank would have to be pumped at least every year.”

Walton also addressed a couple myths about septic tanks in our communities.

Myth #1: “Flushing toilet paper down a toilet will back up a septic system.” You may have seen notices in restaurants or hotel rooms asking you not to flush toilet paper THE PLACENCIA BREEZE down a toilet. Here’s the Diagram 1: A one-chamber septic tank doesn’t provide the mechanism for wastereal deal, according to water to separate into scum effluent and sludge. Wastewater fills up quickly in a Walton. Most of the toilet one chamber septic tank and can lead to a backed up system causing bad odor and paper products available disease causing bacteria making contact with the underground water table and in our local stores actuseeping into a soakaway closer to the ground surface. ally break down very quickly as soon as they are flushed down into our The master plumber says people living on the Plaseptic tanks. Brands such as Softy, Charmin and cencia Peninsula need three-chamber septic tanks.

Roses are great examples. Other brands like Quilted Because of the high porosity of our sandy soil, the Northern or Scott’s take a bit three-chamber septic tanks allow a better system for waste water to separate into sludge (solids), water longer. But just how dangerous is and scum (e.g. toilet paper) and allow more time for toilet paper? Walton says that a one bacterial growth, which treats wastewater before it or two-chamber septic tank that hits the water table and seep into a soakaway. In a doesn’t give waste water enough one or two-chamber tank, wastewater doesn’t have time to separate into scum, water time to separate, and it quickly goes down into our and sludge, will generate the stuff sandy soil hitting our water table and seeping into we see seeping out into the leach the surface of the soil through a soakaway with haz-

Juuntulico’on Continued from page 23 By the end of the day, new acquaintances were made and everyone had their fill of information, food and entertainment! Juuntulico’on’s next program will be a two -day train-thetrainer in July for indigenous Mayans on epigraphy, the study of the Maya glyphs.

- Amy Lichty is an active Board Member of Juuntulico’on. For information on how you can contribute, contact Amy at juuntulicoon@gmail.com.

PLACENCIA SHOTOKAN KARATE ASSOCIATION Established 2011

For more information contact 610-1787.

Classes meet bi-weekly.

field, which includes toilet paper. This doesn’t indicate a problem with your toilet paper, but rather a problem with your septic tank. In a three chamber tank, the broken down toilet paper settles in the layer of scum, and only the bacteria-treated water seeps into your leachfield or soakaway.

Myth #2: “The bad smell from a septic tank will make you sick.” Walton says no one can get sick simply from smelling untreated wastewater leaving a faulty septic tank. Only those who come into direct contact with the disease causing bacteria generated from faulty septic tanks can be susceptible to serious illnesses such as hepatitis, typhoid fever and acute gastrointestinal illnesses.

More on bad septic tank hazards: Untreated wastewater hitting our water table also affects other life around us such as our marine life in the sea. According to environmental agencies, failing septic systems may leak excessive nutrients and bacteria to coastal waters, destroying aquatic plant and animal habitat. When nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus enter coastal waters, they can cause excessive plant growth. Certain types of algae become so abundant they block sunlight in the water. This shade can then kill beneficial plants. As these plants disappear, so do the animals that depend upon them. Too much algae also uses up the oxygen in the water, which may kill fish and even corals. Excessive plant growth also makes boating, fishing, and swimming less enjoyable.

To find out how your septic system is working, contact Dick Walton of Master Plumbing at 669-1014 or fredwalton53@yahoo.com ▪

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 25

Placencia’s Wild Fruits Continued from page 22 El Garobo/Wallen’s Grocery in the middle of Placencia Village.

Noni Walking along the north end of the Placencia sidewalk you might notice a shrub with large shiny green leaves and strange greenish yellow fruit that look like Picasso’s rendition of a potato. When fully ripe the fruit turns almost translucent ivory yellow and drops off the tree. This is the famous Noni plant, Morinda Citrifolia, is native to South East Asia and Australasia but widely naturalized across the Caribbean. It is often found growing on islands and along the beach as it is highly salt tolerant and can thrive even in very poor and saline soils.

The fruits exude a strong almost overpowering smell and even in their native range in the Pacific are usually consumed only in times of famine or for medicinal purposes. The noni fruit has received a lot of attention in the USA and elsewhere for its purported health benefits, including cancer fighting, immune system boosting and anti-bacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit is widely consumed in Placencia in the form of a fermented juice as a medicinal tonic. If you want to try some for yourself, you can buy high quality locally made noni juice at Ms. Goodie’s coffee and baked goods shop on the southern half of the sidewalk in Placencia village.

Blackberries Found occasionally in the littoral forest, more commonly along the roadside and in yards in Placencia and across Belize, is a tall tree with branches covered with small oval leaves known locally as the Blackberry Tree (Eugenia Florida). In August and September this tree is covered with huge clusters of purple/black berries which attract many birds and stain the sand below a royal hue. Wine made from the fruit is so famous that it is mentioned in song by one of Belize’s most renowned musicians, Mr. Peters. It can also be made into jelly and jam. The fruits range in flavour from tree to tree, some so tart as to be almost inedible and others which are quite sweet when consumed raw. When cooked or fermented any tartness is pleasant and not overwhelming. You can sometimes find commercially produced blackberry wine for sale in local grocery stores.

While fresh fruits may be readily available for picking in the littoral forest or along the roadside, if you are a visitor you may be wondering how you can ever try local delicacies like stewed cashew or guava jam if they are not currently available in restaurants or grocery stores. The best way to sample these treats is to ask your local tour guide or someone from the village to tell you who you can buy some from. Almost everybody knows someone who puts up craboo, makes guava jelly, stews coco plum, collects sea grapes or makes their own local fruit wines, although these activities have become less common today. Give Placencia’s wild fruits a try you won’t be disappointed! ▪

MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

The noni fruit might have an unpleasant overpowering smell, but many seek this fruit for its medicinal properties.

Editor’s Note: Try Placencia’s wild fruits in your cocktails and food! In addition to Danube Restaurant and Los Porticos Villas’ special concoctions, also visit the Barefoot Bar where they incorporate fresh mango into their coladas, daiquiris and margaritas whenever they can get a hold of ripe ones. Barefoot also uses fresh mango in quite a few of their signature Barefoot Blends. When fresh mangoes aren’t available they use Caribbean Pride Mango Squash produced right here in Belize. The Tipsy Tuna Beach Bar offers mango salsa, mango daiquiris, mango smoothies, mango shakes and “Mangoritas.” Rumfish y Vino also uses mangos and craboo from time to time. And find most of our wild fruits in delicious and healthy smoothies at The Shak Beach Café and in sweet milkshakes at The Galley Restaurant and Bar.

The Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association Congratulates our Newly Elected Village Councils: Seine Bight Village Council: Chairperson: Justo “Sini” Augustine Councilors: Elizabeth Zaicevs, Floret “Beauty” Valerio, Lavern Arzu, Albert “Amado” Flores, Sinclair Diego, John Augustine Placencia Village Council: Chairperson: Ilsa Villanueva Councilors: Harold Wallen, Jodie Yearwood, Warren Garbutt, Glenn Eiley, Nick Pollard and Lloydia Caballero We look forward to working with you!

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 26

PLACENCIA PENINSULA GUIDE PAID LISTINGS. TO ADVERTISE CALL 523-4045 OR E-MAIL INFO@PLACENCIA.COM

ACCOMMODATIONS South of Airstrip Casa Placencia: Casually elegant, reasonably priced Garden Rooms and fully equipped Apartments, (weekly/monthly), surrounded by lush tropical gardens in a quiet and secure Placencia neighborhood; A/C, WIFI, cable tv, bikes and more .... Check out our rave guest reviews on Trip Advisor.

Contact our on site-owner/manager, Jacki Tipton for rates and pictures.

Email: casaplacencia@live.com or Phone: (501) 630-7811/669-4842

One World Rentals: Eight beautiful, comfortable and immaculate studios and apartments around an attractive courtyard . Cable TV, free wireless internet access, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, fully screened, hammocks. Located in the heart of Placencia (behind the “Rumfish” restaurant) close to the beach, shopping and restaurants. www.oneworldplacencia.com. Contact Swiss owner Claudia Hardegger at 5233103 or 6209975. Email: oneworldplacencia@yahoo.com. MC, VISA accepted. Rates from 49US$ plus Tax.

Paradise Resort: Has most of the amenities & all the luxury of a large hotel. We are located on the ocean front. 12 A/C rooms. On site full service restaurant & bar, spa by the sea, all eco tours, diving, snorkeling, fishing, roof top Jacuzzi, Wi-Fi, dive shop, gift shop, kayak and golf cart rental. Maya & Tropic Air agent. Email:info@belize123.com or give us a call at 523-3179/503-3479 Website:www.belize123.com

Ranguana Lodge: Five private ocean view cabins located right on the beach in the heart of Placencia Village: We have 3 private air-conditioned beach cabins each w/ 2 Double beds, fans, large refrigerator, coffee makers, private bath w/ hot/cold shower, private balcony w/ a hammock. We also have two other cabins with full kitchens, 2 double beds, fans, private bath with hot & cold shower & tub, private balcony with a hammock. Beach Palapas, beach chairs.

Tropic Air agent, Gift shop. Phone/fax at 011-501-523-3112, E-mail: Ranguana@btl.net website: www.ranguanabelize.com

Tarpon Caye Belize: Offers a unique experience in quality service – our island sits in the middle of the Victoria – snorkel the rich, vibrant fringe reef the island sits on; the famous Gladden Spit Whale Shark zone 6 miles away; dive sites are nearby; largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere only 6 miles away...or simply relax with a cold drink in your hand and enjoy the cool Caribbean sea breeze lapping on your skin. We have 3 cabins that can accommodate 6 comfortably. More information: 501-523-3323 – info@tarponcaye.com – www.tarponcaye.com – Facebook: facebook.com/tarponcaye

The North Beach: offers luxury suites in our sea view villa with full kitchens, living areas and configurations from one to five bedrooms. Each suite has air conditioning, ceiling fans, cable t.v. & phone. Located north end of the sidewalk-walking distance to services. The perfect spot to enjoy Placencia Village. Contact us at phone 523 -3207, e-mail info@thenorthbeach.com. or visit www.thenorthbeach.com

located on the landscaped grounds. Daily tours, snorkeling & diving trips and other excursions arranged. www.larubeya.com. info@larubeya.com.

Tel: 523-3476 & Fax: 523-3483

Singing Sands Inn: Located on a beautiful stretch of Maya Beach featuring 6 private, thatched cabanas with own bath and patio as well as 2 garden view flats. Bonefish Grille full service restaurant and bar on-site serving breakfast, lunch and dinner along with daily specials and Happy Hour 4 – 6 pm. Gorgeous landscaping. Swimming pool with relaxing deck area. Free Wi-Fi available.

Bicycles complimentary for guests. Kayaks, pedal boats and golf cart available for rent. Tel: 533-302. Email: info@singingsands.com Website: www.singingsands.com

Robert’s Grove Beach Resort:

Placencia’s most complete resort.

Beachfront accommodations w/3 restaurants: Seaside, Habanero & Sweet Mama’s & French bakery & deli; 3 Pools, Conference Center, Tennis Court, Gym, FREE Wifi, Gift Shop, Full Service Dive Center, Marina, Gas and butane station. Kayaks, Windsurfers, Hobie Cats and bikes. Kayak, Paddle Boat and golf cart rentals and sales. www.robertsgrove.com, info@robertsgrove.com. For more info cal us @ 523-3565!

At The Cayes Ranguana Caye: Ranguana Caye is a 2 acre island located right on the reef with 3 rustic cabanas and a view that will blow your mind! Food, drinks, Moorings and all the Caribbean Breeze you can handle are available. Prime Diving and Fishing location. Come for a day, a night or more. Reservation day trips or lodging call 523-3565

Robert’s Caye: Robert’s Caye is just 10 miles from Placencia (1/2 hour by boat) a one acre island with 4 charming cabanas built partially over the water.

Each cabana is outfitted w/ a king bed, full bathroom, hot and cold running showers, and a private terrace with hammocks. A small restaurant and bar, also built over the water, serves three meals daily. An deal setting for honeymooners and sportsmen alike, this “swept away” island paradise is surrounded by crystal clear water. The nearby flats are renowned for fishing as well. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are complimentary to is island guests. Come for a day, a night or more. Reservation for day trips or lodging call 523-3565

Tarpon Caye Belize: Offers a unique experience, not only in quality service, but also from our island's geographic location – sits in the middle of the Victoria – snorkel the rich and vibrant fringe reef the island sits on; the famous Gladden Spit Whale Shark zone 6 miles away; dive sites are nearby; largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere only 6 miles away...or simply relax with a cold drink in your hand on a private island and enjoy the cool Caribbean sea breeze lapping on your skin. We have 3 cabins that can accommodate 6 comfortably. More information: 501-523-3323 – info@tarponcaye.com – www.tarponcaye.com – Facebook: facebook.com/tarponcaye

Whipray Caye Lodge: Whipray Caye is a magical private island in the

Cabanas w/ private bath, hot/cold, 2 double beds, fans, coffee maker (coffee provided), refrigerator & veranda w/ hammock. Tel: 523-3122; Email: trdewndpla@btl.net

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: 5 0 1 -6 1 0 - 1 0 6 8 , E M AI L: wh i p r a yc a ye @ ya h o o .c o m, W EB : www.whipraycayelodge.com

North of Airstrip

DINING

Barnacle Bill's Beach Bungalows: Two secluded bungalows on the

South of Airstrip

Toucan Lulu: Five cabanas located in quiet northern end of the village on the main sidewalk. A few minutes to shops & restaurants. 3 cabanas sleep up to 4, 2 cabanas sleep up to 6. All have beach access & verandas for enjoying the fresh sea breezes. Check out our web site at www.toucanlulu.com , email reservations@toucanlulu.com, or call Kathy at 501 628 8474

Tradewinds: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea & the Mountains of Belize! 9

beach in Maya Beach. Full kitchen, queen size bed, sleeper sofa, h/w, and fans.

Complimentary kayaks. 5 night min. Tel/fax: 533-8110; email: taylors@btl.net; Website: www.barnaclebills-belize.com

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; E-mail: greenparrot@btl.net; Website: www.greenparrot-belize.com

Miller’s Landing: Natural Belizean-style cabanas, lush tropical gardens, clean secluded beach, pool w/ thatch bar, Wi-Fi, comp. breakfast, comp kayaks, bikes, restaurant w/ healthy specials daily, awesome pizza P. 523-3010 or millersplacencia@yahoo.com SUMMER SPECIAL: From $35US p.p. inc. tax.

Laru Beya Resort: Paradise has an address... Luxurious beachfront accommodation with a top-rated restaurant on site. All bedrooms have A/C, ceiling fans, fridges, coffee & tea making facilities. Suites (1 to 3 bedrooms) have fully fitted kitchens. Ocean-facing infinity pool. Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort. Free use of Hobi-cat, sea kayaks and bicycles. Miniature golf course

De'Tatch Seafood Beach Grill & Bar -Serving the very best in Seafood and Local Cuisines. Open Mon-Sunday (Closed... on Wed)7am until 10pm for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (daily and nightly lunch & seafood dinner special). Come Enjoy the Perfect View (beach front), Great food, Great drink and Music to sooth the soul. Internet & Wireless also available. For Info or Take out orders please call: 503-3385

Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar:

Fine dining in A/C comfort or outdoor on the Patio. Specializing in Spanish & Creole. Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch & dinner 7am - 10pm. Located on the Main Road. Visa & MC accepted. Ph: 523-3335 Email: wendylemus02@hotmail.com

Dawn’s Grill n Go Restaurant: Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Daily specials feature Belizean favorites like escabeche, stewed gibnut, roast chicken w/rice n beans. Try curry, Creole or garlic seafood or grilled pork chops w/ sweet & sour sauce & more for dinner! Ph: 602-9302. Located along Main Road b/w Carol’s Cabanas & BTL, corner of Kubaaly Street.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 27

The Purple Space Monkey Bar & Grill: Offering sandwiches, fresh

Lola’s Art: In Seine Bight Village open from 7am-6pm. Phone 523-3342

salads, seafood and imported steaks, pastas, full dinners and homemade desserts. Draft beer and extensive cocktail list. Don’t be a stranger. Come say hi to the monkey : ) Call: 523-3169

Spectarte Art and Garden Gallery: Offers a cornucopia of art from

North of Airstrip Danube Restaurant: EAT – DRINK – RELAX in a romantic atmosphere.

A/C indoor, lounge area outdoor. Austrian and International Specialties, fish and vegetarian dishes, great desserts, large wine menu & cigars. Dice for your FREE Belikin beer between 4:30—6 p.m. Open TUE – SAT from 4:30 p.m.

Ph: 610-0132, restaurant@danubebelize.com, visit 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: greenparot@btl.net

Habanero Mexican Restaurant & Bar @ Robert’s Grove – Lagoon side Fiesta time! Casual and fun Habanero serves up Mexican food w/ a Belizean flair. Now open from 12 noon – 10 p.m. Dinner Pick-ups available 523-3565!

Jaguar Lanes Bowling and Café

: Casual Dining in cool AC, 2 big TVs, Pizza, Burgers, Pulled Pork, Crunchy Tacos, Nachos, Homemade Desserts, Daily Drink Specials, and more!!! Credit Cards accepted.

Quarterdeck Restaurant & Bar @ Laru Beya Resort: International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. Experience delicious meals, fabulous cocktails and fantastic service combined with spectacular ocean views. Breakfast served from 7 to 11 am. Lunch served from 12 to 2 pm.

Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Dinner served from 6 to 9 pm. For reservations call 523-3476.

Singing Sands Inn: Enjoy the delicious cuisine and ambiance of the

Belizean artisans and designers. Plus, baked goods, chocolate and spices.

A delightful experience. 533-8019, Thursday - Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

TOUR PROVIDERS Avadon Divers: Dive into Belize w/ our full service PADI Dive Centre in Placencia, just south of the airstrip. We have 5-Star all-inclusive packages for dive & snorkel trips that include new SCUBAPRO equipment. Our spacious 46' Newton Dive Special Boat features a restroom & fresh water shower. Our Instructors teach scuba for kids from ages 8 to 80 ☺, advanced courses & dive pro levels. We also offer jungle, cave & Mayan ruin adventure tours. Email: anne-marie@avadondiversbelize.com Website: www.avadondiversbelize.com Call us at 503- 3577 or 523-3577.

Caribbean Travel & Tours: Craving Adventure??? Caribbean Travel and Tours specializing in making your Belizean vacation quite memorable.

Discover the wonders of the Mayan world, plunge into the great blue an meet our underwater friends or be embraced by the warm Caribbean breeze onboard one of our sailing charters. Private tours also available call Tel 501 523 3481/ 671 3481 email info@ctbelize.com

Robert’s Grove Dive Center: Feeling adventurous?? Our PADI 5 star Dive Center offers daily snorkeling, diving and certification courses and boasts some of the tastiest lunches, best tour guides in the country, and ‘The Dorado’ our 48 ft. Pro Dive Boat! Nitrox and specialty Dive Courses available. Inland, Fishing, private charters, Whale Shark, Manatee, Monkey River and Inland tours also on the Tour Menu for more info call 523-3565!

Seahorse Dive Shop: Offers SCUBA Certification, snorkeling, fishing, river trips & charters. Call Brian Young (office) 523-3166; (home) 523-3356; Email: seahorse@btl.net; Website: www.belizescuba.com

Bonefish Grille. Our open-air, full service restaurant located on the beach, specializes in traditional Asian, as well as Italian and French influenced dishes.

Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials as well as Happy Hour Menu. Open 7 days a week. For reservations or more information call 533-3022 or email info@singingsands.com.

Singing Sands Inn offers inshore or offshore fishing excursions right off

Seaside Restaurant @ Robert’s Grove – Romantic Fine Dining with

Splash Dive Center - PADI Proud Member. Experience Belize w/

a world class menu and wine cellar. One of Belize’s most consistent restaurants quoted Fodor’s 2010 edition. The Seaside Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Dinner Pick-ups available 523-3565!

Sweet Mama’s @ Robert’s Grove

– Belizean restaurant serving breakfast ($8), lunch ($10) and dinner ($12). Open Monday - Sunday, 7 AM to 8 PM.

Tarpon Caye Belize's Pesky Permit Restaurant: Enjoy generous

of our dock! Join us on our 31’ Cape Horn for a fantastic day of angling action.

We can arrange any tour whether inland or water including Monkey River, Mayan Ruins, snorkelling, diving, and much more. Call 533-3022 or email info@singingsands.com

Splash! Ph: 523-3058/3080 or 620-6649. Email patricia@splashbelize.com visit www.splashbelize.com

Tarpon Caye Belize: We offer professional day fishing tours, experience our unique tours such as our Caribbean Splash Day Tour and Island Breeze Weekends.

Trip N Travel: Saltwater & Jungle Adventures. P. 523-3205 Email: lgodfrey@btl.net. Located on Main Street & Bruk Pat in Placencia Office Supply.

portions of fresh seafood including lobster, conch, shrimp or freshly caught fish. Local Belizean meals are also on the menu.

SERVICES

Whipray Caye Lodge: See accommodation for info about our restaurant

Chocolatier

and bar.

CHEERS Placencia Peninsula Bars Barefoot Bar: Open everyday 11:30 am - midnight.! Located on the Main

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

Health & Fitness

Road - the party never stops! Live music Thurs - Sun nights. Happy hour, lunch hour beer specials, largest drink menu around, full moon parties & more!

Creative lunch/dinner specials. Barefoot Bar is all about Stiff Drinks - Tasty Food - Good Times! Tel:523-3515. Follow us on Facebook!

Tony’s Gym/Belize Fit We have a small CrossFit Gym. By appointment

J-Byrd’s: Local Bar by the Seaside docks. Open daily from 10am to 12pm.

Wallen’s Market: Serving Placencia with fresh produce, dry goods, &

And live music every Friday’s Tel :523 -3412

Tarpon Caye Belize's Iguana Rock Bar: Out on a tour on the waters? Wish you could simply stop somewhere and take a break and enjoy an ice cold tropical drink? Then stop by at our cozy thatched bar that overlooks the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

COFFEE Above Grounds Coffee: Direct Farm Trade Guatemalan Coffees, Espresso and Brewed Coffees, Bulk Coffee (bean or ground). Bagels, Banana Bread, Iced Teas, Fresh Juice, Tree House setting. High speed Wi-Fi , SkypeMain Road, south end of the village. Opposite Wendy’s Restaurant. Open 7 a.m.- 4 p.m. except Sundays 8 a.m. - Noon. Tel: 634 3212

SHOPPING Green Parrot Gift Shop: The in-place to shop on the peninsula. Featuring a wide variety of Belizean, Guatemalan, & Central American crafts.

only. www.belizefit.com Phone: 631-7427

Food Markets specialty items. Wholesale/retail. Tel: 523-3128; Hardware Tel: 503-3316 or 523-3523; Pharmacy Tel. 523-3346. email wallensmarket@yahoo.com Serving the peninsula for over 25 years!! Located across from the sport field.

Internet Access Placencia Office Supply: INTERNET, Printing, Stationary, SMART – GimmeDalla, Sales, Collections. P. 523-3205 or plaofficesupply@gmail.com

Photography Muzamanzie Photography: Contact us for wedding photographs, portraits, web & brochure photographs. muzamanzie@yahoo.com

Tel# 523-3563 or 603-5143 email:

Real Estate CPC Real Estate Solutions: is your trusted real estate broker in Belize.

We have over 20 years experience helping clients with their real estate transactions and take pride in assisting you with your property purchase. Please visit our office next to Tuttifrutti or call us at 672-9000 or visit: www.belizeproperty.com

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 28

Upcoming Tour Guides Continued from page 3 had a small celebration event on April 21 with special recognition to the following participants under these categories:    

Mariko Wallen: Best Overall Exam Scores Tanya Neal: Best Presentation Melissa Cabral and Marisha Betancourt: Best Attendance Record Amir Neal and Luis Galdemez: Best Punctuality

Moorings, Ltd. and Open Water through Dive Master training for 20 participants.

Leave your name and contact number at the Placencia Tourism Center to find out more information and when the next PTGA general meeting will be scheduled.Many thanks goes out to COMPACT, SEA, BTB, the Placencia BTIA and the PTGA committee members: Warren Garbutt (President), Patricia Ramirez (Vice President), Conrad Villanueva, Jr. (Treasurer), Andria Villanueva (Assistant Treasurer), Nick Pollard (Secretary) and Eworth Garbutt (Councilor). Both COMPACT grant proposals were written and implemented by Lisa Carne; contact her at lisasinbelize@gmail.com for any questions or more information.

Congratulations to all!

Other training offered under the current COMPACT grant later this year includes training of experienced boat captains in conjunction with the

DAVE VERNON

Students stand at the entrance of Hokeb Ha Cave located in Blue Creek Village, Toledo.

LISA CARNE

PTGA President Warren Garbutt presents certificate to Mariko Wallen who scored the “Best Overall Scores” in the program.

LISA CARNE

Students take swimming test in the Lark Caye Range located on the outskirts of the south end of Placencia Village.

Licensed Tour Guides of Placencia and Surrounding Areas Alvarado, Francisco

607-5687

11-Nov-13

Bech, Jes Christian

670-0498

18-Dec-13

Bonnel, Eusebio

667-4708

11-Nov-13

Cabral, Daniel

632-9104

7-Feb-14

Cabral, Egbert

620-5974

11-Feb-14

14-Dec-13

Young, Brent

604-8904

30-Apr-13

Leslie, Ivan Sr.

523-3134

8-Dec-14

Young, Dwayne

660-5997

18-Aug-13

14-Dec=13

Young, Shawn

632-8399

18-Aug-13

Zuniga, Alfonso

720-2029

25-Sep-13

604-4466

Leslie, Mark

633-6330

Leslie, Rene

602-9315

20-Dec-13

Leslie, Russel

651-0584

28-Jan-14

Linarez, Francisco

523-3350

22-Dec-13

Lopez, Sydney

653-2196

28-Jan-14

Mayen, Kirk

662-7037

11-Dec-13

McNeil, Anne-Marie

523-3577

26-Sep-13

Mendoza, Pablo

634-4419

Mes, Zeferino

6636983

22-Dec-13

13-May-13

Miralda, Emelly

667-4200

25-May-13

4-Nov-13

Muschamp, Evaristo

668-9670

21-Dec-13

Cuevas, Ian

660-0735 653-2311

610-1068

22-Mar-13

Cal, Cyrilo

633-5127

4-Dec-13

Carr, Edwin

626-6810

Chun, Cirilo

633-5127

1-Mar-14

Cuevas, Eloy

661-2363

3-Oct-13

Dyer, Wilford

624-5071

5-Jul-13

Eiley, George (Benji)

602-4578

Eiley, Kenroy

629-3602 604-3477

523-3165

Leslie, Leopold

Cabral, Julian

Faux, Leslie

Leslie, Ivan Jr.

Licenses Ready for Pickup at PTC Carne, Lisa

623-6122

Castellanos, Wayne

634-2852

Muschamp, Alrin

606-1761

11/8/2013

Vernon, Claude Westby, Arthur

604-5564

Licenses Being Processed Note that guides holding receipt can still conduct tours.

Foreman, Eric

664-8121

14-Dec-13

Neal, Harold

635-9262

28-Jan-14

Faux, Randolph

Garbutt, Alexander

663-8363

14-May-14

Palacio, Lennox

623-0575

18-Sep-13

Garcia, Leopold

625-3110

Garbutt, Eworth

503-3012

4-Dec-13

Parks, Anthony

600-5181

4-Nov-13

Godfrey, Earl

660-1574

Garbutt, Terry

533-3028

11-Feb-14

Parks, Patrick

601-7459

17-Jun-13

Gongora, Prince

630-3064 632-9127

Garbutt, Warren

610-1040

Gardiner, Doyle

600-2318

Gilbert, Gilbert

620-9387

4-Jan-14

8-Dec-13

Pau, Juan

633-0239

13-Sep-13

Lopez, Stephen

Ruano, Francisco

665-1052

10-Nov-13

Modera, Kevin

660-1561

Shal, Florencio

668-4298

30-Jan-14

Pollard, Nick

631-7790 622-2811

Spang, Lyra

664-8699

31-Jul-13

Tucker, Elroy

13-May-13

Vernon, Ian

607-2296

22-Oct-13

Villanueva, Andria

602-2148

503-3020

13-Sep-13

Villanueva, Clint

634-8476

Villanueva, Faygon

667-5715

663-6513

30-April-13

Villanueva, Conrad

602-2148

Westby, Zane

623-7966 664-3829 636-3272 653-0493

Gibson, Natasha

622-3137

Godfrey, Dale

503-3020

Godfrey, Rhawn Gordon, Percival Leslie, Ainsworth

651-0584

31-Jul-13

Villanueva, Rafael

635-5107

4-Nov-13

Williams, Alfred

Leslie, Bernard Sr.

523-3363

22-Dec-13

Westby, Jason

631-9349

8-Dec-13

Leslie, Bruce

627-8820

18-Nov-13

Williams, Andre

632-8004

20-May-13

Arzu, Godfrey Ysaguirre, Dylan

Leslie, Doren

625-0191

Williams,Jason

669-5737

14-Jan-14

Please note that some licensed guides might not appear in this list.

Contact the Placencia Tourism Center at 523-4045 f or further information.

This service is provided by the Placencia BTIA in partnership with the Placencia Tour Guide Association (PTGA) and the Belize Tourism Board.

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 29

A BELIZEAN NIRVANA

MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

CHARLES LESLIE, JR.

HERBERT KOLLMANN

MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHY

PLACENCIA VILLAGE FB PAGE

WINNIE MERTENS

JUAN CADUCIO

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 30

Sandhill Ltd.: Property and vacation rental management services customized to fit homeowners requirements. Rental homes available for short and long term lease. Telephone 523-3061 or 533-4017 for more information.

Email info@silbelize.com. Website www.silbelize.com

Rentals (Golf Carts, Auto, Bicycles) Car Rental of Placencia: 1 mile north of the Placencia Airstrip. Largest car rental on the Peninsula. SUVs and Golf Carts. Call: 523-3284 or 625-9573 or 662-7611. A drop location for donations for the Placencia Humane Society.

Sandhill Ltd.: Sales and rentals of kayaks, pedal boats, golf carts. Rentals by hour, daily or weekly. Telephone 523-3061 or 533-4017 for more information. Email info@silbelize.com. Website www.silbelize.com

Singing Sands Inn: Rentals of reliable golf carts, bicycles, kayaks (including clear bottom), two person catamarans, snorkel gear and pedal boats by the hour, half day, full day or weekly. Located in Maya beach. Call 5333022 or email info@singingsands.com.

Spa, Massage & Physical Therapy Sea Spa @ Robert’s Grove – Now offering Thai Massage, our Sea Spa is manned by professional therapists each w/ their own unique style. Treatments include; Several massage styles, Facials, Body Wraps, Body Scrubs/ Polish, Reiki Energy, Sunburn Special, Coconut Hair Rinse and of course Manis & Pedis for Barefoot perfect feet! All treatments offered in our newly appointed oceanfront spa, at the end of our 250 ft pier or in a rooftop setting w/ panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea! For more info call 523-3565!

Siripohn’s Thai Massage: Therapist from Thailand - Thai Massage, Essential Oil, Swedish, Jet Lag, Back & Shoulders, Foot Massage, Body Treatments, & Facial Treatments. Open 10 am to 6 pm. Call 620-8718 or 6000375, email: jenjira01@yahoo.com - Kob Khun Ka.

Wedding Planning Robert’s Grove Beach Resort: Located on the Placencia Peninsula, a romantic off-the-beaten-path destination on the southern coast. Robert’s Grove is an intimate five-star resort that is ideal for Belize Beach Weddings, whether you want private ceremony for just you and your partner or if you want to bring family and friends. Contact our wedding planner Ms. Lea Itzab: lea@robertsgrove.com or call us at 523-3565

CHURCHES St. John’s Memorial - Placencia Anglican (Episcopal) Church: Sunday services at 8:00 a.m. .

Ministries of the Son of God Church - Seine Bight Village Wednesday Bible Studies -6:30 pm, Thursday Youth Choir Practice - 6:30 pm, Friday Youth Night - 6:00 pm, Saturday Adult Choir Practice - 6:30 pm, Sunday Service - 8:30 am & Sunday Night Service - 6:30 pm. Reverend Don Palmer. Phone 523-3301 or email cbelize@btl.net

Calvary Chapel of the Placencia Peninsula: Meeting in Seine Bight Village. Sunday Services: 10:30 A.M. and 6:30 P.M. (Sunday School provided). Wednesday: Men's and Women's Bible Study - 6:30 P.M. Friday: Youth Group - 5:30 P.M. Non denominational Church - Call Pastor Jim Mensie for more information: 523-3362 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

GETTING AROUND De Express Boat: P. 626-8835. 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 for BZ$120.

Hokey Pokey Boat: P. 523-2376. Placencia (MnM Dock) → Independence/Mango Creek: 6:45a.m, 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m, 5 p.m and 6 p.m. (except on Sundays). Independence/Mango Creek → Placencia: 6:30 a.m., 7:30a.m., 8a.m., 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:30p.m, & 4:30p.m.

Ritchie’s Bus: 523-3806. Regular Bus: Placencia → Dangriga: Monday thru Saturday: 6 a.m.; 7 a.m.; 12:45 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. Sundays: 7 a .m.; 2:30 p.m.

Dangriga → Placencia : Monday thru Saturday: 11 a.m.; 2 p.m.; 4:30 p.m.; 6 p.m. Sundays: 11 a.m.; 6 p.m. Express Bus: Placencia—> Belmopan —> Belize City: Monday thru Saturday: 6:15 a.m. Express Bus: Belize City—> Belmopan —> Placencia: Monday thru Saturday: 3:30 p.m, Visit: www.ritchiesbusservice.com for more info!

ADO: Leaves from Belize City at 7:30 p.m. to Tulum, Playa Del Carmen and Cancun, Mexico. Tickets must be purchased at bus terminal in Belize City.

Tropic Air: P. 523-3410 Maya Island Air: P. 523-3472 COMMUNITY NUMBERS ALCOHOLIC ANOYMOUS/Placencia Rule 62 Group: 670-1255, 610-1441, 628-1143; 9:30 a.m. Sundays, Open Meeting at The Placencia Health Center.

PLACENCIA NAR-ANON/Narcotics Anoymous Family Groups: for those affected by someone else’s addiction. Placencia Health Ctr. Saturday at 4:30 p.m.

Placencia Village Council: 523-3396 Placencia Water Board: 523-4036 Placencia Post Office: 523-3104 Seine Bight Village Council: 523-3660 Seine Bight Water Board: 523-3554 U.S. Warden, Stann Creek Rural: Deborah Coston, 624-6483

EMERGENCIES Belize Emergency Response Team: 223-3292 Placencia Medical Center: 503-3326 Seine Bight Medical Center: 523-3328 Independence Med. Center: 523-2167 Placencia Police Station: 503 -3142 Seine Bight Police Station: 503-3148 Maya Beach Police Station: 634-7051 Placencia Tourism Police: 503-3181 FIRE EMERGENCIES: 6260667

The Placencia Breeze ‖ April 2013 ‖ Page 31

PENINSULA HAPPENINGS FESTIVALS • LOCAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINTMENT • GAMES • FOOD/DRINK WHEN

LOCATION

June 28-29-30

Placencia Village

Courtesy of the Placencia BTIA

EVENT PLACENCIA LOBSTERFEST 2013!!! A mega beach party like no other in Belize!

MONDAYS

Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)

Men’s league night. No open bowling. Restaurant and bar open 4 – 8 p.m. Daily food special.

Phone: 601-4434 (Closed on Tuesdays.)

TUESDAYS

Habanero’s Mexican Café and Bar (Seine Bight)

All you can eat Mexican Buffet! Come try our Tequila Lime Pie. 7 to 9 p.m.

Dinner Pick-ups available. P. 523-3565.

Yoli’s Bar (Placencia)

Rotary Club of Placencia meets at 12:30 p.m. P. 625-2763.

Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)

Zumba Dance Party on the deck @ Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar with Yolie! Starts at 7 p.m. P. 523-3089

Barefoot Bar (Placencia)

Live Music w/ the Entertainers. Reggae, soca, salsa, punta and more. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. P. 523-3515

Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)

Wings Wednesday! Wings $1 each all day! Garifuna Drumming on the deck at the Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. P: 523-3089

Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)

Ladies Day. Ladies bowl 2 games get 1 free. Ladies only 2 – 4 p.m., open bowling 4 – 8 p.m.

Restaurant and bar open 2 – 8 p.m. Daily food special. Phone: 601-4434

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS

SATURDAYS

SUNDAYS

EVERYDAY

De Barcelona Tapas Bar(Placencia) Live Jazz Music with Angela Suarez, Steven Fasano and Beau. 7 to 9 p.m. P. 660-0837 Barefoot Bar (Placencia)

Dance Party!! P. 523-3515

Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)

Karaoke Night in the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar with FREE Jello Shots on the hour! 9 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)

Couple’s league night. No open bowling. Restaurant and bar open 4 – 8 p.m. Daily food specials.

P. 601-4434

Dawn’s Grill & Go (Placencia)

Fried Chicken Fridays for Lunch. (And regular lunch and dinner menu) P. 523-4079

Barefoot Bar

Barefoot Bash. Live music w/ house band 8:30 p.m. to midnight. P. 523-3515

Placencia Hotel (N. Maya Beach)

Karaoke starting at 8 p.m. P. 520-4110

J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar (Placencia)

Karaoke starting at 8 p.m. P. 503-3351

Quarter Deck Restaurant at Laru Beya Resort (Seine Bight)

Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Free bar snacks. Live music from 6 to 9 pm. International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. P. 523-3476

De Barcelona Tapas Bar (Placencia)

Latin Night! Free salsa, cumbia and meringue lessons! 660-0837

Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)

TGIF! $1 OFF Tipsy Tuna Shots all day. P: 523-3089 DJ Skrape 9 p.m.- Midnight at the Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar. Party continues in the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar until 2 a.m.

Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)

Open bowling 4 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 4 – 8 p.m. Daily food specials. P. 601-4434

Barefoot Bar (Placencia)

Barefoot Horseshoe Tournament at 4 p.m. Cash + Bar Tab Prizes. P. 523-3515

Barefoot Bar (Placencia)

Live Rock + Alternative music with Da Man in Da Shadz. 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. P. 523-3515

Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)

Live Music w/ Tropical Vibes on the deck at the Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. P: 5233089 DJ Skrape immediately afterwards, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. in the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar

Robert’s Grove (Seine Bight)

Poolside Beach BBQ Buffet, 7 to 9 p.m. Live entertainment. Dinner Pick-ups available. P. 5233565.

Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)

Open Bowling 2 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 2 – 8 p.m. Weekend special, $20 per person includes shoes and unlimited bowling. Daily food specials. Phone: 601-4434

Habanero’s Mexican Café and Bar (Seine Bight)

Paella Night. Complimentary glass of House Sangria for each diner. 6 to 9 p.m. Pick-ups available.

P. 523-3565

Yoli’s Bar (Placencia)

4 p.m. Placencia’s Famous Ring Game. P. 625-2763.

Barefoot Bar (Placencia)

Tropical Vibes Reggae Jazz Infusion. 6 - 10 p.m. P. 523-3515

J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar (Placencia)

Live music with Ben Bol and Orlando Betancourt from 8 p.m. to midnight. P. 503-3351

De Barcelona Tapas Bar (Placencia)

Live Jazz Music with Angela Suarez, Steven Fasano and Beau. 7 to 9 p.m. P. 660-0837

Tipsy Tuna (Placencia)

Family Fun in the "Sun-day"! Kids' specials all day and extended happy hours (3 p.m.-7 p.m.) for the adults! Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or play some beach volleyball!

Jaguar Lanes (Maya Beach)

Open Bowling 2 – 8 p.m. Restaurant and bar open 2 – 8 p.m. Weekend special, $20 per person includes shoes and unlimited bowling. Daily food specials. Phone: 601-4434

Danube Restaurant (Seine Bight)

Dice for your Belikin beer between 4.30-6pm: eg Dice “1” and pay just $1, dice “2” and pay just $2… or be lucky and dice “6” and get your Belikin beer for FREE. This special is available with a snack and/or dinner only. DANUBE is located just 100 yrds North of Robert’s Grove. Open TUE – SAT from 4.30 pm. Ph: 610-0132, restaurant@danubebelize.com, visit www.danubebelize.com

Habanero’s Mexican Café and Bar (Seine Bight)

Sunset Happy Hour. 5 to 7 p.m. $10 Margaritas. $4 Beers. $4 Local Rum drinks. Cocktails on the lagoon after a hard week’s work. P. 523-3565

Robert’s Grove

Seaside Happy Hour and bar snacks. 4 to 6 p.m. $5 Local Beer and Rum Drinks.

P. 523-3565

Quarter Deck Restaurant at Laru Beya Resort (Seine Bight)

International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. Breakfast served from 7 to 11 am. Lunch served from 12 to 2 pm. Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Dinner served from 6 to 9 pm. P. 523-3476