The Placencia Breeze, April 2019

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"CLINIC DAY" / PHOTO BY SARAH ALY

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The Placencia Breeze

April 2019

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WEH DI GOAAN?! ~Listing open to Placencia BTIA members.~ Contact accounts@placencia.com

EVERYDAY Barefoot Bar: Stiff Drinks Tasty Food - Good Times! Come chill with us on the beach! Happy Hour 5-6 p.m. $2 OFF Local Rum Drinks including Coladas and Daiquiris. $1 Local Bittas. P. 523-3515 Cha Chi's Pizza, Live Music, House of Dub, Culture and Art: Happy Hour 3-5 p.m. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun. $5 pizza slices, $4 Belikin beers and $5 domestic rum drinks!! P. 523-3305.

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

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APRIL 2019 PENINSULA HAPPENINGS GUIDE

LIVE MUSIC ● HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS ● DANCE ● KARAOKE ● GAMES � MORE FRIDAYS

MONDAYS

Barefoot Bar: Live Caribbean Music w/ Bad Boy Rudy at 5 p.m.!

BZ$1 Local Bitters all day long! "They good fi dih bak!" P. 523-3515

PICKLED PARROT: ART BAR: Every third Monday at 3 p.m. Come empty handed and walk away with a piece of art! P. 636-7068

Cha Chi's: P. 523-3305.

April 12: Live Stand-up Comedy with Brad Reeder (USA)

BAREFOOT BAR: Sangria & Salsa Night starts at Happy Hour, 5 p.m. $6 Sangria, $12 Margarita & $8 Tequila shots. All tostadas, salbutes & garnaches, 4 for the price of 3! $15 Chicken & Beef Nachos. $2 off all dips. P. 523-3515.

TIPSY TUNA: Martini Monday! $2 off martinis all day! Live low-key music with Karl & Gram at Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar, 6-10 p.m. It's also Pizza Night! P. 523-3089 TURTLE INN: Indonesian Rijsttafel Dinner. p. 523-3244

Rotary Club of Placencia: Bingo @ 6 p.m. at the Flying Pig.

Would you like to cover an event for us as a Breeze Contributing Writer?

E-mail Jolie Pollard pollard.jolie@gmail.com.

RUMFISH Y VINO: Happy Hour drink specials, 4 to 6 p.m. P. 5233293

SATURDAYS

Tipsy Tuna: Happy Hours, 5-7 p.m.! $1 Wings; $2 off Coladas & Daiquiris; $3 Local Rum, $4 Belikin & $4.50 Guinness! P. 523-3089

Barefoot Bar: Barefoot Horseshoe Tournament at 4 p.m.! Cash + Bar Tab Prizes! Live Rock + Alternative + Reggae music, 5-9 p.m. P. 523-3515.

Turtle Inn: Happy Hour, 4-6 p.m. ½ off Local Beer and Rum.

Barefoot Bar: Daytime Beach BBQ! Live Caribbean Music w/ Tropical Vibes from 1 to 6 pm.! P. 523-3515 Belize Ocean Club: Sunday Pool Parties! Party DJ, great food and drinks!

Cha Chi's Pizza, Live Music, House of Dub, Culture and Art: P. 523-3305. Closes at midnight See Easter Weekend Lineup.

J-Dee's: Karaoke at 8 p.m. to midnight. P. 503-3351 SailFish Resort: Bloody Mary Special, open noon to sundown. 18+ Tipsy Tuna: DJ Swagg playing an assortment of music on the beach at the Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar during the day. P. 523-3089.

Turtle Inn: Two-for-One Pizza.

P. 523-3244.

Turtle Inn: Live Music at Beach Bar. 5-7 p.m. P. 523-3244.

Wildin' Out at Yucatan Tequila Bar & Grill: Garifuna Drumming 6 - 7p.m. on the beach side in front of Brisa Oceano Resort & 7-9 p.m. upstairs in Yucatan Restaurant.

Free Frozen rum punch shots & free chips and salsa. Happy Hour from 5-6 p.m. and 50% off local mixed rum drinks.

MAYA BEACH BISTRO: 3 to 5 p.m. Happy Hour specials on select appetizers and $4 swill and $8 fill. P. 627-4718

SUNDAYS

Tipsy Tuna: Margarita Madness! $2 off all margarita specials all day!

Live Belizean/Caribbean music at our Seaside Bar with Laru Beya Boys, 5-10 p.m. DJ Swagg follows 'til midnight then moves into the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar 'til 2 a.m. P. 523-3089

Cha Chi's Pizza, Live Music, House of Dub, Culture and Art: P. 523-3305. Closes at 12 a.m SEE EASTER LIINEUP BELOW.

TUESDAYS BAREFOOT BAR: TRAVELLERS TUESDAY – Select Travellers Rum Just $3 from 5 to close! P. 523-3515 ROTARY CLUB OF PLACENCIA: Meeting at 12:30 p.m. at Pickled Parrot. P. 622-7103

WEDNESDAYS BAREFOOT BAR: Fun & Funky Jam Session from 5 to 9 p.m.! Visiting Musicians Welcome! P. 523-3515.

GOSS CHOCOLATE: Open Wholesale Office Day! 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. P. 523-3544 LOLA'S ART: BBQ Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.! 10% off on all art done by Lola! (Free delivery for Seine Bight, BZ$3 for delivery to Placencia and Maya Beach. Try our unique ice cold juices.

MARIPOSA RESTAURANT: Free Yahtzee dice game starts 3 p.m.

P. 523-4474.

ROTARY CLUB OF PLACENCIA: senior Programme at the Placencia Community Centre. 1 - 3:30 p.m.

SAILFISH RESORT: No pool fee on Wednesdays! Open to public, 18 and older. Pool Bar. Drink Specials. Noon – sundown.

TIPSY TUNA: Wings Wednesday! $1 Wings all day! Garifuna Drumming at Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar, 7-9 p.m.; P. 523-3089 Wildin' Out at Yucatan Tequila Bar & Grill: Karaoke from 9 p.m. - midnight. Free chips & salsa.15% off margarita and tequila drinks Happy Hour from 5-6 p.m. 50% off local mixed rum drinks.

THURSDAYS Barefoot Bar: Reggae DJ night @ 8 p.m. All reggae, all night. 523-3515 Cha Chi's Pizza, Live Music, House of Dub, Culture and Art: P. 523-3305. Closes at 12 a.m.

March 7: Hootenanny - open mic/jam session Jaguar Lanes: Wings Night! Open every day from 2 p.m.. - until.

Pickled Parrot: Trivia Thursday!

Starts at 6 p.m. Prizes and free jello shots! P. 636-7068 SailFish Resort: 25% off T-shirts!

18 and older. Open noon – sundown.

Tipsy Tuna: Tipsy Thursday! Karaoke night with Karl at our Seaside Bar from 8 p.m. to midnight! DJ Swagg in the Sports Bar 'til 2 a.m!

Turtle Inn: Indonesian Rijsttafel Dinner. P. 523-3244 Wildin' Out at Yucatan Tequila Bar & Grill: Live Music w/ Latin, Reggae & Rock Vibes from 6-9 p.m.! Comp. jalapeno popcorn and corn quesadilla sliders; Happy Hour from 5-6 p.m.! 50% off local mixed rum drinks!!!

Pickled Parrot: Live Music! at 6 p.m. P. 636-3089 Tipsy Tuna: Live band and/or DJ, 7 p.m. to midnight at Tipsy Tuna Seaside Bar; DJ Swagg in the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar 'til 2 a.m.! P. 523-3089

EASTER WEEKEND EVENTS Barefoot Bar: APRIL 20-21. EASTERFEST! BEST SWIMSUIT CONTEST! BIG BELLY MAN CONTEST. CLOTHES SWAP CONTEST. BELIKIN DRINKING CONTEST & MORE! PRIZES & SURPRISES! DJ BONEYFIDE, REMIX BERTO, MISTA FLAVA, DJ DALLA, ASH BELIZE, DJ PREMIER. DRINK SPECIALS! Cha Chi's: APRIL 20: THE MIGHTY PERSUADERS! APRIL 21: TROPICAL JAZZ WITH PATU AND RICHARD PITTS ALONG WITH SPECIAL GUESTS PERFORMING SOCA, CALYPSO AND BRUK DONG WITH A JAZZ TWIST! CLOSES AT MIDNIGHT. Tipsy Tuna: April 20-21. party 'til mawnin! MUSIC BY dj swagg, dj heavy d & mighty force sound. drink specials! beach bbQ!.

FREE KIDS EGG HUNT WED. APRIL 17. BEACH NEXT TO TIPSY TUNA @ 3 PM. Egg decorating contest. Prizes for best parent-child festive combo, coloring contest, craft table, egg designing and coloring station. ALL FREE! Expect a child's bike raffle to that night's Boledo lottery number. This event is annually organized by Tracy Eiley and Kathy Wade.

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The Placencia Breeze

April 2019

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INSIDE Entertainment Guide ... pg. 3

New Property Owners in Placencia Village Donate BZ$10,000 to PVC ... pg. 5 Where in the World is the Breeze ... pg. 5 Peninsula Visual Story Teller Leaves Behind Powerful Legacy ... pg. 7 30 Years Later It's a Beautiful Life: Lola Talks Love, Art & Seine Bight … pg. 9

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April 2019

Yucatan Taco Stand: Brisa Oceano Brings Yucatan Inspired Flavours and Cocktail Deals to Placencia's Growing Restaurant Row … pg. 19 Croc Corner: New Directions in Nicaragua ... pg. 20 Croc Corner: Keeping Seine Bight Clean and Green ... pg. 24 Is the Gentle Giant Still on a Path to Local Extinction? ... pg. 24 Rotary Club of Placencia Updates … pg. 27

Stony Coral Tissue Loss ID Cards Now Available ... pg. 12

Placencia Ups the Ante in March Entertainment ... pg. 28

Monique Vernon Attends Fish School Workshop for Media and Communications Professionals … pg. 12

Evan Fairweather Passes ... pg. 30

... And Satellite Remote Sensing and Satellite Data Sets Processing Workshop ... pg. 12 12 Things You Should Eat and Drink in Placencia … pg. 13

Kids Learn Music From a Jazz Pro at Cha Chi's ... pg. 30 Placencia BTIA Membership Directory & Map... pgs. 15 & 18 Placencia Peninsula Guide ... pgs.

22-23 Community Contacts & Info … pg. 31

Where in the world are you reading The Placencia Breeze?! Send a photo to pollard.jolie@gmail.com!

Also follow us for updates at facebook.com/ThePlacenciaBreeze or on Instagram @ThePlacenciaBreeze.

Thank you for picking up your FREE copy of THE PLACENCIA BREEZE! PUBLISHER: The Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (Placencia BTIA) DISTRIBUTION: The Placencia Breeze is available free of charge at the Placencia Tourism Center, Maya Island Air, guesthouses, restaurants and bars, gift shops, banks and other businesses on the Placencia Peninsula.

The Placencia Breeze has a print circulation of 1,500, as well as a large online web audience.

New Property Owners in Placencia Village Donate BZ$10,000 to PVC

By JOLIE POLLARD pollard.jolie@gmail.com

I

n what the chairwoman of the Placencia Village Council (PVC) has described as an “unprecedented gesture of generosity” from project developers in Placencia, a Canadian couple building on Sunset Point Drive has donated BZ$10,000 to the PVC to assist with village operations. In a win-win arrangement, the new land owners, Andrew and Chantal Bacon, generated the funds from a yard sale they held in February to sell salvageables at an affordable price.

Joined by real estate agents representing the Belize Property Shop of Placencia Village, the Bacons handed over a ceremonial check to Chairlady Ilsa Villanueva at the PVC office on March 1. According to the Bacons, who also donated a smaller portion of the yard sale proceeds to the Placencia Police Station for computer

Andrew and Chantal Bacon donated the proceeds they collected from the sale of materials left behind on their new property on Sunset Pointe Drive. The site will be home to ASARUM, the couple's planned development for private residences and an optional vacation rental program.

(Photo source: VRBO, Sunset Pointe condo listing.)

needs, they have never made retired couple from Vancoua large charitable dona- ver, Canada decided to make tion of this amount before. their dream home in Pla“It just felt like the right thing to do,” said Chantal, "It just felt like who first traveled to Plathe right thing cencia with her husband in 2016 for vacation. “The to do." welcoming, warm and - Chantal Bacon friendly spirit of the Belizean people touched our hearts, and we knew withcencia. Called ASARUM, out any doubt that we wantLatin for Wild Ginger, a ed to be a part of this spepopular ornamental plant cial community,” she said. with which the couple fell It was not long after their first trip to Placencia that the See ASARUM DONATION on page 20.

Where in the World is the Placencia Breeze?

EDITOR IN CHIEF & LAYOUT DESIGNER: Jolie Pollard, pollard.jolie@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHERS: ♥ Marion and Ed Carr of Muzamanzie Photographs muzamanzie@gmail.com ADVERTISING OFFICERS: Shanice Westby, director@placencia.com Natasha Eiley, accounts@placencia.com PRINTER: Norman’s Printing, Belize City, Belize The Placencia Breeze The Placencia Tourism Center, Placencia Village, Stann Creek, Belize. Phone: 523- 4045 PLACENCIA BTIA BOARD: Jodie Yearwood Leslie, Chairperson Salvador Zabaneh Elysia Dial Arreini Palacio Morganr Wendy Lemus Gillian Zabaneh Shelly Pollard Christopher Rothing

Lake Simcoe, Innisfil, Ontario, Canada!

We're not sure if our newspaper has ever been this cold! Tracy Holomek took our March 2019 edition to this snowy, frozen lake in Ontario (where a radically different kind of fishing from what we're used to is taking place behind her in the photograph). Tracy said she is missing the warmth and sea and had a truly amazing trip to Belize with her sisters while staying at the Belize Ocean Club in Maya Beach. They hope to be back soon!

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April 2019

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Peninsula Visual Story Teller Leaves Behind Powerful Legacy

By JOLIE POLLARD Editor in Chief The Placencia Breeze pollard.jolie@gmail.com

S

he was there for it all. The annual board meetings, Lobsterfest, Mistletoe Ball, September Celebrations, the Sidewalk Art Festival, both fishing tournaments and all the events for the Rotary Club, Humane Society and respective Village Councils.

She woke up at the crack of dawn to follow the runners participating in the End of the World Marathon and the young ones training in the Seine Bight Running Club.

Every award presentation, school graduation – Marion Carr made her best attempt to be there, so long as she could return home before dark, making just a few exceptions.

I don’t think any community in Belize has been documented through photography as meticulously as the Placencia Peninsula. Without a museum or comprehensive history book to call our own, Marion, along with her husband, Ed, have left this strip of paradise with a wealth of snapshots that tell the story of a community that continues to evolve at blinding speed during the boom of tourism, from its time when simple wooden structures were flattened to the ground after a devastating hurricane, to the present when people can visit for luxury

a c commodations and purchase million-dollar properties.

Throughout it all, she carried a profound humility, observing the changing times, while changing little herself,

rooted in the early days when the Peninsula challenged its residents to make do with very little in a more rural setting unknown to those who didn’t experience the 1990s.

collaborated with her on this newspaper. As a roving fixture at every gathering on the Peninsula, she created a reality show that would air in a Facebook album that she'd put together in less than 48 hours. (And if it had to take

longer, she'd notify us in a status update.) Having our lives dutifully documented by this selfless photographer became the norm for us, and her public Facebook albums amassed a large following online from people near and far who wanted to "tune in."

Never a woman to yield to the lure of ego, even in the She was that foreigner in Belize who was age of digital narcissism, she easily able to cross socio-economic and cultural There were a maintained an boundaries in the most unassuming way, while f e w h i c c u p s i n d i s p u t a b l e gaining intimate access to her trusting subjects here and there focus on the − a remarkable skill and a testament to her though. Throwpeople around cultural sensitivity and compassion. ing in a "lee" her from beKriol, I recall hind the lens. her frustration She was that foreigner in with men who were upset Belize who was easily able being caught with "othto cross socio-economic and er women" in her photos. cultural boundaries in the "Look ya!", to paraphrase most unassuming way while her response, "If you nuh gaining intimate access to want trouble, den what are her trusting subjects − a you doing out there cheatremarkable skill and tesing out in the open?!" tament to her cultural sensitivity and compasShe'd then go on to tell sion. This made the husme how she's been takband-wife duo who coming photos of a few guilty prised the "Muzamanzie culprits since they were in Photographs" team, an their diapers. I'm pretty sure invaluable resource to all they took the retort from her the editors just the same as who have they would from an auntie

or granny. But even with that, Marion, a naturalized Belizean, began exercising a little extra caution, learning from such faux pas as she busy-bodied her way around Seine Bight to Placencia Village and to Maya Beach, and every little nook and cranny in between, juggling this balance between the physical and digital realms of Peninsula life.

And still, none of us can think of a single person who became truly mad at this woman. And trust me when I say that on the Placencia Peninsula, to be generally liked by everyone warrants accolades from all the heavens in the universe!

Since she joined Facebook as "Maz Carr" using a pet name her friends and family in the United Kingdom call her, many on the Peninsula, a place where people are hyper connected to the social media platform, began calling her the same. "It's weird when they call me, 'Maz,'" she once told me, "Here in Belize, I am Marion," but she knew it had stuck after she created her Facebook account, so she'd just let everyone carry on without much fuss, saying it was taking her some time getting used to it.

Marion and Ed both worked in entertainment production back in the UK and after moving to the Peninsula during a time of limited resources, she had to start with the "basics," especially after Hurricane Iris, which she said took away her joy for painting and had given her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. She channeled this, however, into and an insatiable interest in storm news during hurricane season becoming our

(Photo by KEVIN W. QUISCHAN)

See MARION'S LEGACY on page 10.

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April 2019

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30 Years Later: It's a Beautiful Life! Lola Talks Love, Art & Seine Bight Story by JOLIE POLLARD, pollard.jolie@gmail.com Photos by SARAH ALY, sarah.aly@hotmail.com (Sarah, thank you for volunteering to take these photographs for the Breeze as Marion Carr of Muzamanize Photographs would have done. Appreciate it!)

Lola Delgado sits inside her art gallery where she sells her paintings, newest collaborations and works of other artists.

A

pril 1 marked 30 years since Lola Delgado opened an art gallery in Seine Bight Village in the middle of the Placencia Peninsula. "April has always been a good month for me," says the 60-year-old artist with an infectiously happy disposition. In April 2008 she was awarded the Belize Tourism Board's "Small Vendor of the Year" award. That same month she was honored with an exclusive exhibition of her signature paintings at the prestigious House of Culture in Belize City.

on their own to persuade a buyer, but the inspiration behind her popular art makes them even more alluring.

"See no evil. Hear no evil. Speak no evil." Lola's father brought her up with this universally known Japanese maxim since she was a precocious little girl who started selling her paintings at just eight years old at her home in Belize City. "It's how I've lived my life, and it's the best advice I can give anyone who wants to be happy," she says. "I keep a low profile." True. Before this interview, all I knew about Lola was what I had gathered from a short, one-paragraph bio I read in a "Belizean Women in Art" coffee table book at a friend's house in Belize City about 10 years ago. This maxim is also the recurrent theme in her paintings. The women in Lola's art have no eyes, no ears and no mouth, on purpose.

And on April 27 of this year, she'll be marrying Winston Crossman, a 61-year-old Rasta farmer from Jamaica. During our interview, Winston made a video call to her, and Lola decided to introduce us. Their smiles say it all. They're in love, and she's on cloud nine even though they just met last year. "It took me 40 years to fall in love again," she Black. Why are they black? Because says, giving those of us whom love the beauty of Black people, she says, has eluded some hope. and also because it's Lola's favorite color. She's a self-professed Goth.

The paintings of the soon-to-be Lola Goth before she knew there was a Delgado-Crossman, (don't expect term for the rock-influenced subher to drop Delgado), are easily culture that favors dark attire. She recognizable to people on the Pla- equally enjoys loud heavy metal and cencia Peninsula and art enthusiasts reggae when painting, just as long as around Belize. The striking and the music is LOUD, and let's just say bright colors adorning the nearly mu- I was totally unprepared to meet a sical curves of black female figures against a tropical landscape (as seen on our front page) might be enough See LOLA'S ART on page 11.

It's easy to find Lola's Art Gallery in Seine Bight Village, especially when the street turning off the Placencia Road is named in her honor. (Photos by SARAH ALY)

The Placencia Breeze

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Marion Carr's Legacy Continued from page 7

reliable Facebook weather reporter.

Yes. Before making just enough to survive from wedding photography and giving back to the community "equally," Marion dabbled in various trades including room cleaning and making jewelry while Ed started out as a licensed tour guide, fishing guide and occasional boat captain.

In fact, before Facebook, you would be able to find their earlier shots in photo albums at the Placencia Tourism Center. I was 18 when I first stood in front of her lens in 2003, posing with my first boyfriend at her popular Mistletoe Ball photo booth.

As Peninsula folk tended to switch up Mistletoe partners during the years, she'd remind me to be mindful of these details in local romantic affairs, always watching out for how this Belize City girl navigated village life. (Still working on that.)

I'm not sure if she realized when she joined Facebook that her page would become more than a means to connect with friends and family, but also a vital community info hub and digital photo repository. She was certainly aware, however, of the tremendous impact of her and Ed's work, and it kept them going, shooting, and her, posting prolifically, while Ed continued his work at sea.

As verbose as Marion was, both online and in person, there's a lot that we didn't know about her until we learned of her untimely passing on March 22 at Belize City's Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, a few days after suffering a major stroke at her longtime home, hidden in the littoral forest of Seine Bight Village.

When the outpour of condolences and tributes from across the globe kept me glued to Facebook during the 24 hours following her death, scrolling both in shock and awe until my hands ached, and I was driven to break from social media, I think we all realized that Marion made us feel exceptionally valued and special, no matter who we were. Her empathy extended beyond her concern for families who needed her and Ed's photos to raise support at fund raisers or even the environment when she worked tirelessly to fund an initiative to purchase bouys for the Peninsula Moorings Masters project, which anchored markers at dive sites to prevent damage to the reef.

stigmas prevalent in Belize on her Facebook page, she'd personally check in with those of us who were fighting the demons of the mind. Marion and I shared our fair share of brain executive function challenges, and she would check in periodically to make sure I was okay and did all the little things she could to cheer me up or inspire me to charge forward. Even when I thought I seemed unappreciative of her kindness at times, she never penalized me for it. Her compassion knew no boundaries − something I also witnessed at her home when she was fostering this little orphaned raccoon she cared about so deeply.

Thankfully, Marion's contributions did not go unnoticed while she was with us. The Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (PBTIA) gave her complimentary membership in exchange for the thousands of photos she shared with the The Placencia Breeze, and her volunteer work at PBTIA events, including tallying scores at the annual fishing tournament and helping the Placencia Tourism Center crew however she could at their events. In April 2017, Megs Yearwood of Barefoot Rentals and Khadija Assales of Treasure Box, organized a special tribute to her in Lee Nyhus' front yard at The Secret Garden. She was surprised and showered with gifts and gave a most heartfelt appreciation post on the group's Facebook page following the gathering. (I encourage you to take a read. Just visit: Surprise for Ed and Maz Carr on Facebook. Megs Yearwood has made the formerly secret group public.)

A GoFund Me group organized

by Breeze Contributing Writer Shaylene Todd raised over BZ$12,000 to assist with Marion's medical expenses. More was raised with cash donations made to Marion's friend, Ginny Holding. On April 7, 2019, her life was celebrated by the Peninsula community at a popular beach location for local fund raisers and events, most of which she photographed.

My condolences to Marion's family and to Ed. Thanks to Elysia Dial and others from the PBTIA, who allowed me the privilege to work with her and to experience her unconditional love. Putting this issue together without her support has Another cause dear to her heart was already come with its challenges. mental health, and in addition to To help, just take a moment to turn sharing informative posts to fight the the lens away from you. ▪

April 2019

WORDS FROM THE COMMUNITY "I remember she was so excited about doing the photo shoots of my baby girl that she would message me two months before the shoot to see my ideas. She would get so excited. She liked the mermaid one, and up 'til the day she passed away, she used to always remind me about my water baby, but out of all the shoots she did, she loved Summer's nine-month old pictures.

She called her a Hawaiian princess." − LeeAnn Faux

"Very few come to Belize and be one with the people and the community. She mastered that! She was one of those people who loved us and this Peninsula. I know because every family must have at least one picture taken by her and all those community events she volunteered for." − Megs Yearwood "I will miss seeing her waiting to hitch hike by Top Value" − Elda Pech "When we moved back to England, her photos kept me connected to the village and the people I love.

I can look at her photos and hear their voices and laughter." − Michelle McDougall "Her pictures were inspirational and fun. I always messaged her when there was a possible hurricane, and she would always reassure me." − Bernice Church "She had a fierce sense of righteousness and was not afraid to voice it if she thought someone was unfairly treated!" − Polly Alford

"I can't even remember when I met Marion, but I feel like I have known her FOREVER! Whilst I am deeply saddened that her life was cut short , if my Facebook timeline is anything to go by then there is no question that her life had great purpose. She did more for her fellow man than many of us will ever achieve. I truly hope we can all take a page from her book." − Fiona McFarlane

"My dear friend! Placencia misses you. Lobsterfest will not be the same without you." − Basilio Mes "Your sense of humor was soft and kind. Even if a negative gossip, you were giving the positive part of it.

You knew everyone. You loved us all, we all loved you. You knew how to photograph us for life memories.

You were professional, creative and a giver. Poor in the wallet but millionaire in your soul to give so much to so many." − Veronique McKenzie "I'm honestly lost for words sleep in peace you sweet lady." − DJ Boneyfide Reynolds Please note that some quotes were slightly paraphrased to accommodate as many comments as possible.

"Ed and Marion LOVED each other for exactly who they were, and they LAUGHED together about it.

And it was so plain to see." − Shaylene Todd

"I've read all the beautiful, heartfelt posts people have made to you and about you. You will always be one of the most giving people I know, so freely giving your time to community, your passion to Belize and your friendship to us all. We were all blessed to have you in our lives and you have left a space in our hearts that cannot be filled. I am thankful for all that we shared over the years and I know I am a better person for having had the privilege to call you friend. I miss you so much already." − Elysia Dial "Marion and Ed became part of our lives sharing parties, boating trips and attending every event that happened. We always thought of them as latent hippies. They radiated this laid back approach to life, which embraced everyone. They had room for all comers in their lives, which we saw in Marion, a woman who was a willing participant in life - a beautiful human being. Nothing - brochures, business cards ... was impossible for her to produce even 20 years ago with limited technical options." − Marcia and Peter Fox

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Lola's Art used his skill to sculpt ornate tomb stones in the Belize City cemetery, fellow Metallica fan in Seine Bight which you can still see today. for this interview! On Lola's wedding day, her dress will be black and Lola's father also introduced her to so will her wedding cake, trimmed the rock of the 60s and 70s playing with a bit of silver like the eight or Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones more rings and skulls I tried to count and Pink Floyd. "We had thousands on her fingers. "When I moved to of records − 45s and EPs − at home," Seine Bight, people thought I was she recalls, also mentioning that it's a witch," she recalls with a laugh, the music she grew up dancing to. "I adding that when she befriended the didn't learn how to dance Punta until Garifuna Dugu ceremony priestess, I moved to Seine Bight!" she says, it didn't help her case. stunning me with even more commonalities we share as Belize City Curvy Garifuna Women. She also transplants living on the Peninsula found inspiration from the women − even though I still don't know how in Seine Bight. "I love their curves to dance properly to Punta. and wide hips," she says. "In general, inspiration has always come from Word soon got around to the few what I see around me." tourists traveling through Belize that a little girl living on Cemetery Lola began painting with her mom's Road was painting birds, sunsets lipstick when she was two years old. and other nature-inspired scenes at Her love for art was obvious so early, the tombstone sculptor's home. By that she said her parents were a bit the age of 16, Lola said her parents nervous when they bought her first surprised her with a car they bought set of art supplies, not knowing if with the money she earned from her she might try to eat them, but Lola painting sales even though she was reassured them very quickly. two years shy of being eligible for a driver's permit.

Her childhood was unusual for someone growing up in Belize City. As an adult, she took a job with the She dropped out of primary school in British Forces who were stationed in Standard 5 because "it was boring" Belize after Independence in 1981 to and she was already reading "adult keep the peace when tensions were books" at home. Not that dropping rising with Guatemala. She started as out was unusual back then, but a dishwasher and eventually earned a because her parents didn't stop her certificate as a "Master Chef" cookand made sure she had her set of ing mostly eggs and potatoes for the encyclopedias and tons of books to Brits along with all the goods from inspire her art at home. Lola's father England they had brought in to the was an artist too. He was a Native barracks. Her certificate hangs on the American cowboy from the Semi- wall by her work desk at the gallery nole tribe who had found his way along with printed copies of family from the United States to Veracruz, photos. She still cooks, though just Mexico where he learned tomb stone for her self and family, and as a gift sculpting, and about Belize from a from a friend, she even published a fellow American. cookbook. This joins a collection of other publications on folklore and He boarded a ship, landed in Belize, met a "Creole-Spanish" woman and See LOLA'S ART on page 14 Continued from page 9

Using calabash growing on the trees in her backyard, Lola now sells painted gourd masks at her gallery. Each piece goes for BZ$105. (Photo by SARAH ALY)

The Placencia Breeze

Page 12

April 2019

Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease ID Cards Now Available frequency and severity, it is important that the government, private sectors, institutions, NGOs and general public work collectively to strategically address common challenges.

ners NOAA and the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute to help marine managers detect and identify the disease.

These posters might also be of interest to others

By MONIQUE VERNON who are frequently unOutreach Officer derwater and would like Fragments of Hope (FoH) to be on the alert for this fohoutreach@gmail.com new threat. Copies are available at Seahorse Dive shop and Southern EnIn recent months, the threat of a new vironmental Association coral disease, Stony Coral Tissue (SEA)’s offices.

Loss Disease (SCTLD) has emerged and is now making appearances Tour guides, fishers and throughout the Caribbean. While sci- the general public are entists are still responding to the new asked to keep a keen eye disease, and it is as yet unreported in out for any signs of the Belize, it has been documented in disease and report immePuerto Morales and closer to Belize, diately to FoH, or Nicole in southern Mexico.

Craig of Healthy Reefs Initiatives The need to safeguard our barrier reef is imperative; hence, Fragments As global and local threats of Hope has printed posters that were to coral reefs increase in recently develop by regional part-

For more information on SCTLD visit the following websites: https://www.gcfi. org/emerging-issues-florida-coral-disease-outbreak/ Contact: Lisa Carne - 623-6122 or lisasinbelize@gmail.com Monique Vernon - 654-8951 or fohoutreach@gmail.com Nicole Craig - 615-5989 or craig@healthyreefs.org ▪ Educational posters on Stony Coral Tissue Disease are available at Seahores Dive Shop and the Southern Environmental Association office in Placencia Village.

The public is asked to immediately report any sighting.

Monique Vernon Attends Fish School Workshop for Media and Communication Professionals On Saturday, Feb. 23, Oceana Belize hosted a "Fish School" workshop in Belize City for media and communication professionals. Monique Vernon, outreach officer for Fragments of Hope, attended on behalf of The Placencia Breeze newspaper.

The session held at the Radisson Fort George Hotel was led by Oceana Marine Scientist and Chief of Strategy Margot Stiles and Philip Chou, Oceana's Se-

nior Advisor, Science and Strategy. The educational workshop covered topics such as overfishing and illegal fishing, the impacts of climate related changes, seafood sustainability, fish and habitat, fisheries management, fishing methods and transparency.

At the end of the workshop, Vernon and all other participants were awarded certificates of completion. Breeze Editor-in-Chief Jolie Pollard thanks Oceana Belize for the invitation to participate. ▪

Breeze Contributing Writer and Fragments of Hope Outreach Officer Monique Vernon joined top Belizean broadcast and print journalists and other media professionals at the Oceana workshop.

... And Satellite Remote Sensing and Satellite Data Sets Processing Workshop In addition to the Oceana "Fish School" workshop for media and communications professionals, Monique Vernon also attended a more technology focused class in February. The “Satellite Remote Sensing and Satellite Data Sets Processing” workshop held on Feb. 12-14 was led by Mr. Javier Verdejo and Hugo Hernandez from El Colegio De La Frontera Sur and Estacion para la Recepcion de Informacion Satelital (ECOSUR/ERIS) in partnership with the University of Belize (UB) and the Belize-Mexico exchange program held at the George Price Center in Belmopan.

ra platforms, Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor features, application, imagery and data sets, foundations and tools for MODIS data processing and how to do these using SeaWIFS Data Analysis System (SeaDAS) and Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS).

What does all this mean for Vernon and Fragments of Hope (FoH)?

The training allows the coral replanting experts to capture information using remote sensing imagery, primarily MODIS, to create Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and chlorophyll Covered topics included electro- maps, useful for coral reefs monimagnetic spectrums and physical toring and analyzing the impact of foundations, Landsat, Aqua and Ter- particular biophysical factors.

Monique Vernon is presented her certificate of completion by El Colegio de La Frontera Sur of Mexico who partnered with the University of Belize to hold the satellite data workshop.

The educational workshop was completed with a project activity and certificates of completion by Dr. Leandra Ricketts (UB), Javier Verdejo and Hugo Hernandez. Vernon thanks

FoH for allowing her opportunities for improvement and growth. She also thanks the University of Belize for the invitation to participate. ▪

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Page 13

From the Fire Hearth: Your expert guide to all things edible in Belize.

Twelve Things You Should Eat and Drink in Placencia!

Belize or even on Placencia Peninsula (how could it with only 12 items), but it contains some that I think tastebelize@gmail.com express the diverse culinary scene in this little corner of the country.

There are a lot of wonderful seasonal uch as I tire of the trend specialties that I don’t mention here in recent years towards because they are only available for a making lists and calling short window of time or because they them articles, this month I jump on are not available outside of personal the bandwagon to tell you about a homes. dozen things that I, (in my humble and imperfect opinion), believe you Many of these, like cashews and should eat and drink if you want to mangoes, have already been featured experience the flavours of Placencia. in their own articles, so check back in the fire hearth archives for an This list isn’t meant to represent all in depth treatment of these coastal fruits. ▪ the delicious foods available in

By LYRA SPANG Owner, anthropologist & tour guide Taste Belize

M 1.

SEAWEED

2.

CEVICHE

3.

BELIZEAN BITTAS

Local bartenders know what I am talking about. Made by soaking roots, barks and dried leaves from the jungle in an alcohol base, this potent blend is meant to boost the immune system and improve sexual stamina and performance, what we call “good fi di back”. Also known as “Belizean Viagra”, a shot of this anise/rum/herbal blend will get your night started on the right foot!

Seaweed: No, I don’t mean the green stuff holding your sushi together. Eucheuma isiforme and Gracilaria sp. seaweeds have long been a traditional food on Belize’s beautiful coast. Here in Placencia it is farmed by the Placencia Producers Cooperative. Head to The Galley, The Shack, Shots of bittaz line counter at Barefoot Beach Bar where the shots go for $1 on Fridays.

(Photo: BAREFOOT BEACH BAR) Brewed Awakenings or Omar’s Creole Grub to sample the Gracilaria or Eucheuma varieties See TWELVE THINGS YOU SHOULD EAT & DRINK IN PLACENCIA on page 21 in their most famous incarnation: as a silky, smooth and thick blended drink once known as seaweed punch, now often called a smoothie or shake. The seaweed contributes a heavenly texture to anything, not to mention a huge nutritional boost, with tons of Placencia's seaweed is sustainably farmed and sold by potassium, magnesium, the Placencia Fishermen's Cooperative in Placencia calcium and as much Village. (Photo by: SARAH ALY/The Placencia Coop) protein as soybeans!

Ceviche: Everyone in Placencia loves seafood of all sorts. This concoction takes raw seafood and “cooks” it by pickling it in lime juice along with a few choice companions.

Tomato, onion, habanero and cilantro are the holy four in Belizean ceviche. I’m a purist so don’t give me any of that carrots or cucumbers business! Ceviche means conch ceviche in Belize unless of course conch season is closed in which case I guess Hold the carrots, cucumbers and bell peppers! Conch you will just have to setceviche purists in Belize only ask for conch, tomatoes, tle for shrimp. Make sure cilantro and onions. (Photo by: JOLIE POLLARD/Dawn's Grill) to consume with an ice cold Belikin beer in hand and plenty of corn or plantain chips.

Page 14

The Placencia Breeze

April 2019

LOLA'S ART

Lola immediately fell in love with Seine Bight and made the move in 1989, opening the first location of Continued from page 5 her Art Galley at a place she rented behind the Dugu temple. After seven years, she bought property near the children's stories she's authored and lagoon and built her home where illustrated. her Art Gallery sits today and where cares for two Seine Bight boys she When the British soldiers found calls her sons. themselves without much to do in peaceful Belize, they returned to Before the curvy women figures for England and left Lola with enough which she's so well known, the early money to survive for a few more Seine Bight days saw her painting years, and took home the coconut seascapes on canvas and driftwood, mementos she painted as a side which she says is not as plentiful hustle. Soon after in 1989, however, these days. Now, she paints on piecLola's neighborhood in south side es of wood, and her prices start at Belize City became inundated with BZ$21 and go up to BZ$5,000 for Crypts and Bloods gang members − large commissioned pieces. Lola's wayward Belizean young men who creativity continues to thrive. Her had been deported home from Los newest work features her paintings Angeles. Things took a turn for the on hand-carved wood by her future worst, and Lola knew she had to Jamaican brother-in-law, who was leave with her one daughter, Elizaenthusiastically making a wired fish beth and her widowed mother. trap with his hands across the street during my visit.

The Move to Seine Bight: While working with the British Forces, "I wouldn't change my life here in one of Lola's work colleagues, a Seine Bight for anything," she says Seine Bight native, invited her to after she told me that her sister in join him down south for some proper California had invited her to move fishing. "We used to go fishing at to the States. "It's peaceful here. We the BelCan bridge in Belize City, are artists. We are poor, but happy. but you couldn't eat the fish because It's a beautiful life."â–Ş the water was too polluted," she explains.

Above: Lola's "My New Headtie", 9" x 12", BZ$450, reflects her signature style. Below: Lola's newest work features her paintings on hand-carved wood. (Photos by SARAH ALY)

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Page 15 PLACENCIA CHAPTER OF THE BELIZE TOURISM INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION 2019 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

Don’t see your listing? It is time to renew your membership or become a new member!

Join the largest BTIA Chapter in Belize! Contact Placencia BTIA Executive Director Shanice Westby at 523-4045 or at director@placencia.com

ACCOMMODATIONS A Belizean Nirvana belizeanirvana@gmail.com; 523-3331 or 625-3301 Evan Hall

Ceiba Beach Resort & Restaurant tom@ceibabeachresort.com 651-6649; Thomas S. Hudson www.ceibabeachresort.com

Aqua Oasis dreawoody@gmail.com 623-3286

Chabil Mar Villas* information@chabilmarvillas. com; 523-3606 or 523-3611; Chris Rothing

Aurora Beach abtrudeau@comcast.net 978-580-9455 or 650-8984 Ann & Tom Trudeau Arches /The gin7373@aol.com 479-841-7970; Mark Risk Barnacle Bill’s Beach Bungalows barnacle@barnaclebillsbelize.com 602-7768; Bill & Adriane Taylor Bayshore Limited bayshore.bz 604-8910 or 600-1040 Jenny Wildman Belize Ocean Club info@belizeoceanclub.com 671-4500; Thibault Gehin belizeoceanclub.com Blue Crab Beach House linnbluecrabbeach@gmail.com; 523-3544 or 523-3543; Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson Blue Garden House info@belizecottagerentals.com 207-326-9099; Costas & Sally Christ Cap’s Inn jbsmfowler@gmail.com 622-1172; Jeffrey & Susan Fowler Captain Jak’s: info@captainjaks.com 523-3448 or 628-6447 Caribbean Beach Cabanas info@caribbeanbeachcabanas. com; 622-4142 David & Laura Diffendal Casa Beya/Sea Grape Escape info@casabeyabelize.com 970-963-1099 Midge & Aaron Dallas Casa Del Sol rubenvasquez27@gmail.com 628-8514; Ruben Vasquez Casa Laguna Vista windwardproperties@att.net 361-765-8277; David Wallace Casa Nettuno framadani.office@gmail.com; 629-2700 or 660-8526 Mariuccia Levoni Casa Palma casapalma@outlook.com 628-7922; Perfecto Choc Casa Placencia casaplacencia@live.com; 503-3143 or 630-7811 Jacki Tipton

Champagne Island Resort info@champagneislandbz.com 615-9979; Jacqueline Lozano www.champagneislandbz.com Coconut Beach Rentals info@coconutbeachbelize.com 661-9516 Carolyn and David Pezzola

Lydia’s Guest House lydias@btl.net; 523-3117 or 627-7970; Lydia Villanueva Maine Stay /The belizekaren@gmail.com; 523-3507; Karen Travers Mariposa Beach Suites* reservations@mariposabelizebeach.com; 523-4474 or 610-4473 Bruce & Sharon Maddison Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro* info@mayabeachhotel.com; 533-8040 or 627-4718; Ellen & John Lee

Sea Glass Inn* brad_schofield@yahoo.com 523-3098 Brad & Christine Schofield Seaspray Hotel jodiejjyearwood@gmail.com 523-3148; Jodie Yearwood Seaview Suites placenciaseaview@gmail.com 523-3777; John & Marian Chan Serenade Hotel info@serenadeplacencia.com 523-3113

Miller’s Landing* millersplacencia@yahoo.com 523-3010 or 523-3011 Gary & Ann Miller

Singing Sands Inn* info@singingsands.com; 533-3022 or 520-8022; Maya Kramer

Dolce Cabana nharvalik@gmail.com 604-6214; Nicole Harvalik

Miramar Apartments info@miramarbelize.com; 523-3658; Ilsa Villanueva www.miramarbelize.com

Finca Villa valchiac@yahoo.com 663-7777; Valeriano Chiac

Naia Resort & Spa hr@naiaresortandspa.com 523-4600; Stewart Krohn

Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas info@sirenianbay.com www.sirenianbay.com 614-3230 Brian and Brenda Montgomery

Green Parrot Beach House & Restaurant* greenparrot@mail.com; 533-8188 David Allardice & Leo Ramirez

Placencia Villas & Golf Cart Rentals info@placenciavillas.com 615-6404 or 615-6434 Stephen Jacoby placenciavillas.com

Coral Cove Inn coralcoveinnbelize@gmail.com 600-9847; Gordon Keith Allen

Harbour Hideaway of Placencia jimandcindy@wellerbelize.com; 623-3286; Jim & Cindy Weller Harry’s Cozy Cabanas cozycabanas@yahoo.com; 523-3155 or 633-8581 Ronda Wheeler Hairy Hut/The pj_jensen@hotmail.com 660-7200 / 250-554-0663 Stephen Jensen Hatchet Caye Resort* contact@hatchetcaye.com; 533-4446 or 523-3337; Dasha Shivers Hibiscus Beach Properties 615-3287; Cindy Weller cindy@hibiscusbeachbelize.com hibiscusbeachbelize.com Hideaway Caye hideawaycaye@yahoo.com; 665-4069 Kimberly & Dustin Ingersoll Itz'ana Resort & Residence kim@itzanabelize.com 610-3456; Kim Viner Laru Beya Resort* timoteo@larubeya.com 523-3473; Timoteo Mes Los Porticos Villas reservations@losporticosvillas. com; 523-3227 or 607-4448; Barry Snowden Lost Reef Resort* llr@lostreefresort.com 610-0816; Lisa D’Amore

Ocean’s Edge Beach Houses info@oceansedge-belize.com 514-606-5582 Michael Brauel & Francine Martel Paradise Plantation jerryspiritclub@yahoo.com 633-1162; Jerry Herrera paradise.plantation-villa.com Paradise Vacation Hotel*/** info@belize123.com 523-3179 or 523-3256 Alan & Deloris Stamm Pearl Beach House vb53@centurytel.net 523-3409 or 605-0586; Bud & Betsy Valian; Stefano Ragagnin Placencia Beach House placenciabeachhouse@gmail.com 664-9264 or 632-0545 Lou Nicolait and Joslin Merwin Ranguana Caye info@ranguanacaye.com 523-3304; Valerie Hopson Ranguana Lodge ranguana@btl.net; 523-3112 ranguanabelize.com Joy Leslie Robert’s Grove Beach Resort */** info@robertsgrove.com; 523-3565 or 523-4367 Rotonda/The candegier@gmail.com 601-8021; Carmen Stowe

Southern Shores Resort deb@southernshoresresort.com 615-4182 Deborah Tinsley southernshoresresort.com Suites at Three Iguanas Annelise Hagan 633-6599 annelisehagan@hotmail.com

**Tour Operator

Barefoot Services info@barefootservicesbelize.com; 523-3066 or 629-9602 Ian & Megs Yearwood CONSTRUCTION & REPAIRS Doran's Services takunchances@yahoo.com 670-4130 Doran Yount CONSULTANTS Barefoot Executive, Ltd. barefootexecutiveltd@gmail.com; 523-3291 Yvette Guild HEALTH & WELLNESS Siripohn Thai Massage jenjira01@yahoo.com 620-8718 or 600-0375 Siripohn Thakham Tooth Fairy Dental Clinic toothfairyclinic@gmail.com; 503-3736 or 633-0678; Dr. Dalila Vanzie-Krohn Tree of Life Massage Studio smallkristine@yahoo.com; 624-5408 Kristine Small COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS End of World Marathon 622-1656; chip@runbelize.org Danny Edwards runbelize.org

Peninsula Volunteer Fire Sunset Pointe Condos ewinche713@aol.com; 664-4740; Department Office Manager, Francisco 626-0667 Kathy Anglin Turtle Inn */** frontdesk@turtleinn.com; Placencia Humane Society 523-3244; Martin Krediet 523-3185 or 604-8676 David Kafka, president Tradewinds Hotel trdewndpla@btl.net; Rotary Club of Placencia 523-3122; Janice Leslie 622-7103 Vacasa Belize Ltd. (formally Swan Villas) info@swanvillasbelize.org 621-1393 Rodolfo Saenz De Ugante

Sandi Johnson, president

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Amik Kil Ha achild17@gmail.com Villas at Cocoplum Rental/The 664-1672 or +(604) 879-0543 booking@thevillasatcocoplum- Amanda Harris friendlywatersbelize@gmail.com rental.com

thevillasatcocoplumrental.com Boris Mannsfeld & Associates 607-7970; Herbert Kollman info@RealEstatePlacencia.com; White House in Placencia/ The 523-3309 info@whitehouseplacencia.com Boris Mannsfeld 1-732-829-4042 CPC Real Estate Solution Kirsten & Per Kristensen info@belizeproperty.com; White Sand Villa 672-9000 eagleray33@gmail.com; Dan Dunbar & Michael Young 661-9516 or 602-9315; Tricia Hernandez Liv It Belize Realty LIVitBelize.com; 501-523-4095 Wooden Mongoose Resort Toll Free:800-479-4439 woodenmongoose@gmail.com Mark Smith 807-708-5869 Jim Bailey & Ellen Yeast Re/Max 1st Choice woodenmongoose.com david@1stchoicebelize.com 631-9622 or 523-3666 David Kafka

Sailfish Resort info@sailfishbelize.com 651-9885; Mike Gargan

Please note that some members in our Accommodations listing offer additional services: *Restaurant

AUTO RENTALS

***Property Rentals

Page 16

The Placencia Breeze

April 2019

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Page 17

April 2019

The Placencia Breeze

Page 18 RESTAURANTS, BARS CAFÉS & ENTERTAINMENT Above Grounds Coffee keithgmorrison@gmail.com 634-3212; Keith Morrison Afrodite Caffe & Bar info@bigtittyrum.com 628-1250; Francis Gagliano www.bigtittyrum.com Barefoot Bar barefootbarbz@gmail.com 523-3515; Cassie & Brice Dial Brewed Awakenings brewedawakeningsbelize@gmail. com; 635-5312 Ryan & Natalie Dixon Buba Wuba Smoke Shack & Grill finagler53@msn.com 650-9243; Robert Coppock ChaChi's chachipizza@gmail.com 523-3305 Dawn's Grill dawnsgrill.com 523-4079; 602-9302 Dawn Pollard De’Tatch Seafood Grill & Bar jodiejjyearwood@gmail.com, 503-3385 or 523-4035, Jodie Yearwood

NSAA Bath and Body Tipsy Tuna Seaside & Sports Bar nsaa.bathbody@gmail.com 663-4276 tipsytuna@outlook.com Omitade Adediran 523-3089 Salva & Gillian Zabaneh One World Gift Shop oneworldplacencia@yahoo.com Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor 620-9975 or 523-3103 tizy.lory@virgilio.it Claudia Hardegger 620-9916; Tiziana Del Col Wendy's Creole Restaurant 523-3335; Wendy Lemus Note: Lobster season is closed & will reopen on June 15.

SERVICES

AB2 Architects andrea@ab2architects.com 523-8113 or 610-0488 Andrea Bacher www.ab2architects.com GSR Energy Holdings, Ltd. gleneiley@yahoo.com 630-2843 Glenford Eiley

Jaguar Lanes jaguarlanes4@gmail.com 601-4434 or 629-3145 Manuel Simpson JC's Corner annmarie6362@gmail.com 602-0871 AnnMarie Mena Laru Beya Restaurant & Bar timoteo@larubeya.com 523-3476 Timoteo Mes Mango’s Restaurant tom@ceibabeachresort.com 668-4461 or 651-6649 Thomas Hudson Pickled Parrot adrianalynn37@gmail.com; 636-7068; Lynn and Eugene Upham Placencia Beach Club hello@placenciabeachclub.com www.placenciabeachclub.com Shane & Heather Kenny Rumfish y Vino rumfish@btl.net 523-3293 or 666-6934 Pamela & John Solomon The Shack Beach Cafe magsshak@hotmail.com 622-1686 or 523-3252 Magda Morales

Pyramid House Wine & Etc. info@pyramidhousewine.com 636-5745 Fred Hoffman, III TOURS Barefoot Services info@barefootservicesbelize.com 523-3066 or 629-9602 Ian & Megs Yearwood Barebones Tours craig@barebonestours.com 677-9303; Craig Pearlman Blue Reef Adventures polly@bluereefadventures.com 626-1429; Polly Alford

Palmtree Designs muzamanzie@gmail.com 523-3563 or 669-4675 Marion & Ed Carr

Daytripper Catamaran daytrippercatamaran@gmail.com; 666-3117; Jeffrey "Jeff" Scott

Placencia Mini Storage celeste1001@live.com 665-0800 Paul & Celeste Smith

Destinations Belize mtoy@destinationsbelize.com 523-4018 or 610-4718 Mary Toy

Dolce Vita/ La ladolcevitaplacencia.com@hotSCHOOLS mail.com 678-1089 or 523-3115 (PIA) Peninsula International Simone De Angelis Academy peninsulaacademy.org Friends Near the Pier 601-3523 robbcarson.king@gmail.com Selena Lucas 667-4805 Robb Carson St. Alphonsus Roman

Catholic School Principal Ms. Loris Moreira Vice Principal Monique Guzman 665-3853 or 632-9124 St. John's Memorial Anglican School stjohnsmemorial@gmail.com 523-3170; 610-5502 Lovelia "Lovey" Rowland SHOPPING

Hardcore Fishing Charters ewestby@hfc-belize.com 634-7612 Erwin Westby Placencia Eagle Ray Tours eagleray33@gmail.com 661-9516 or 602-9315 Tricia Hernandez & Rene Leslie Ranguana Caye info@ranguanacaye.com 523-3304 Ms. Valerie Hopson Splash Dive Center divebelizewithsplash@gmail.com 523-3080 Patty Ramirez Sunny Side Tours sunnysidebelize@yahoo.com 610-1040 Warren Garbutt

Added Touch /The addedtouchhotelsupplies@gmail. com Taste Belize 223-1461 or 615-0054 tastebelize@gmail.com; Robin McCutcheon 664-8699 Lyra Spang Goss Chocolate linnbluecrabbeach@gmail.com The Belize Tourism Industry 523-3544 or 523-3542 Kerry Goss & Linn Wilson was formed in 1985 to bring Lola’s Art Gallery lolasartgallerybelize@gmail.com 523-3342/601-1913 Mermaid Charms jenari_13@yahoo.com 604-1906 or 503-3206 Jeanna Casey MnM Hardware Placencia duncker@btl.net 523-3517 or 523-3537 Dora Duncker

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

SHOPPING

together tourism and tourism related interests to meet the challenges of a dynamic and growing industry in Belize. BTIA intended and continues to develop as the accepted and recognized voice of the tourism industry in Belize and provides an important link between public and private sectors. The Placencia BTIA holds the largest membership in Belize.

Allen, Ken & Elizabeth kenallen72@comcast.net 629-5331

Mertens, Wini Palacio, Arreini Morgan arreinipal@seabelize.org 670-2924

Beeman, Dan dbeeman@gmail.com 818-983-5700

Pelayo, Aretha A. arethapelayo@gmail.com 622-7557

Christensen, Steve gringo@btl.net; 610-1399 Cohen, Howard & Karen howard.cohen@sunnybrook.ca; 622-6695 Coston, Debbie debcoston@yahoo.com; 624-6483

Smith, Stan & Mary stanmary@btl.net; 523-4306 Van Deurzen, John vandeurzen.bz@gmail.com; 662-0020 Westby, Brandon brandonwestby@tropicair.com 631-3553

Edwards, Dan & Kim thislldo.dan@gmail.com 622-1656

Westby, Kay kwplacencia@yahoo.com; 523-3234 or 626-8425;

Gabor, Deborah gringainbelize@gmail.com 628-7004

Wildman, Tanya tanyagster@gmail.com 608-1360

Hess, Christina; 523-3344 Markham, Patricia Angie McCullock, Maretha maretha.mccullock@gmail.com 615-1300 or 523-3555

Wohl, Bill (formerly Slip Stop) slipstop.ca@gmail.com 601-5548

Why Join the Placencia BTIA? Here's what we offer!

• A page on the Placencia.com website with complete details of your business, a link to your website and as many pictures as you like.

• A spot on the centerfold map of The Placencia Breeze.

• Your contact information listed under the appropriate business category in the Membership Directory of The Placencia Breeze.

• A feaure story in The Placencia Breeze about your business.

• A discounted listing in the annual Destination Belize magazine.

• Your brochures and literature displayed in the Placencia Tourism Center.

• Referrals to your business given to visitors by the staff of the Placencia Tourism Center.

• BTIA member discounts at participating member businesses.

• Local assistance with renewals of hotel licenses, tour guide licenses, tour operator licenses, sport fishing licenses, etc.

• Discounted pricing on advertising in The Placencia Breeze.

• Email announcements and news from Placencia BTIA. • Opportunity to have your announcements distributed to all Placencia Chapter members.

• Listing on the national BTIA website.

• Consistent and relevant advocacy on behalf of Placencia tourism stakeholders.

HANNUAL BUSINESS MEMBERSHIPS Small 0-10 employees $200.00

Medium 11-50 employees $500.00

Large 51+ employees $1,500.00

HANNUAL INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIPS $100.00

Extra Membership Cards $25.00

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Page 19

Brisa Oceano Brings Yucatan-Inspired Flavours & Cocktail Deals to Placencia's Growing Restaurant Row The Yucatan Taco Stand is the latest attraction to join popular restaurants and shops located along the road front near the Placencia Village sports field. The restaurant is one of the featured amenities of the new Brisa Oceano Resort.

By SHAYLENE TODD Contributing Writer The Placencia Breeze

shaylenetodd@gmail.com

T

here’s a new stand in town, and its worth checking out!

That is, if a Frozen Panty Ripper (the quintessential Belizean mix of coconut rum and pineapple juice) for BZ$4 sounds up your alley. Or, how about a Jalapeno Margarita? Yup! Yucatan Taco Stand on the Placencia Road has more to offer than just amazing tacos!

See YUCATAN TACO STAND on page 25

(Photos by SHAYLENE TODD)

The Placencia Breeze

Page 20

Asarum Donation Continued from page 5

both sides and the quiet location while still being within walking distance to the village,” Chantal said.

in love while visiting Belize, their property will feature private resi- Before retiring and building their dences with a caretaker home and second home in Belize, the Baan optional onsite rental program. cons spent 30 years in Canada selling cleaning and equipment According to the Bacons, the seaside supplies. They plan on dividing project is designed to have a minimal their time between Canada and impact on the environment while Placencia throughout the year. The setting a “new standard for smart say they have great confidence in luxury and understated elegance.” the PVC to use their gift in a way “We chose this site because of the that will benefit everyone in the uninterrupted water views from Placencia Village community.▪

April 2019

croc corner

New Directions in Nicaragua 200km of riverbank and lakeshore.

They were on the lookout for spectacled caiman and American crocodiles to find out about the population number and population health in the area.

By MARISA TELLEZ Co-founder & Executive Director Crocodile Research Coalition marisa.tellez@crcbelize.org

T

his January saw the CRC Research Coordinator Miriam Boucher, and Belizean citizen volunteer, Noel Jiron take off to Nicaragua to take the first steps in a new collaborative project.

Along the way, they also encountered a swimming sloth, and more howler monkeys than they could count! They also ran into a challenge we also come across in Belize: gill nets. These huge fishing nets were strung up illegally in the river and set against regulations in the lake. Like they do in Belize, these nets have a huge impact on the wildlife, ensnaring turtles and protected fish species like tarpon, and even caiman!

Noe Jiron, a Belizean from Orange Walk, assisted National Geographic Explorer Miriam Boucher in Nicaragua. He is holding a caiman croc they rescued from a gill net.

The CRC crew rescued one caiman that had a piece of gillnet stuck around its waist that had started to cut into its sides - lucky guy! The trip was a huge success, and we are excited to welcome our project partner from Nicaragua to Belize this summer for the Crocodile Specialist Group Regional Meeting we are holding in June. We are excited Like our community of Placencia, for the new direction in which our the villages along the lake and river work has taken us in Nicaragua and depend on tourism and fishing to will post updates as we continue survive. The CRC worked with this collaborative project! ▪ knowledgeable tour guides and See CROC CORNER on page 24 boat captains to survey almost This awesome new project took place in Rio, San Juan, Nicaragua − a unique part of the country where the largest lake in Central America, Lake Nicaragua, drains by the San Juan river to the Caribbean. It is a super rich area with an incredible amount of vegetation and wildlife.

Got a Placencia Peninsula story to tell?

Send us an e-mail!

Contact Breeze Editor-in-Chief Jolie Pollard at pollard.jolie@gmail.com.

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Twelve Things You Should 8.

Eat and Drink in Placencia!

Page 21

COCONUT TART

Continued from page 13

GUAVA JELLY

4.

Placencia jelly makers have perfected the art of this aromatic spread that belongs on every breakfast table. Guavas are native to the tropical Americas and can be found growing as a small backyard tree across the peninsula. Their complex aroma and flavour epitomizes everything tropical.

Ask for the homemade guava jelly at your local restaurant and throw out that fake strawberry jam.

5.

Take a chance on a walking vendor or go straight to the source! Visit Merl's Cafe for some of the most scrumptious coconut tarts in Placencia.

(Photo by: TIFFANIE WESTBY/Merl's Cafe)

9.

LOBSTER OR SHRIMP GRILLED CHEESE

A Maya Beach Bistro creation, the heavenly lobster grilled cheese can be made with shrimp if lobster is Ms. Cunchie Villanueva of Placencia Village holds jars out of season. You of her legendary guava jelly that's ready to hit the breakfast plates at Dawn's Grill. can also find a ver(Photo by: JOLIE POLLARD) sion at Barefoot Bar. So decadent you will be ready to run behind the golf cart Chunks of lobster and local cheddar make the Barefoot Beach Bar lobster grilled cheese sandwich. Coming in June. on the ride home.

(Photo courtesy of Barefoot Beach Bar.)

FRY JACKS

While we prefer to eat these fluffy pillows of deep fried dough with beans, eggs and cheese for a “proper” aka savory Belizean breakfast, feel free to slather yours with guava jelly if you rather something sweet, or break them open to make your own stuffed jack.

HUDUT

10.

Fried fish, mashed plantain, a rich herb scented coconut broth. Heaven on earth also happens to be one of the most famous dishes to come out of Garifuna culture. Make sure to stop if you see this on the menu at Ms. Vern’s or any other restaurant on the Seine Bight Village (or Placencia) strip.

Classic Creole Breakfast: Fry jacks, eggs, refried beans and a side of guava jelly. (Photo by: JOLIE POLLARD)

6.

COCONUT CURRY

Fish, lobster, conch, shrimp, plain old veggies, a wedge of cardboard. Pretty much ANYTHING tastes amazing drenched in a rich and flavourful bath of coconut milk blended with yellow ginger (turmeric) and other spices! Almost every restaurant on the Peninsula offers their own interpretation of this award-winning flavour combination.

Shrimp coconut curry served with coconut rice. (Photo by: JOLIE POLLARD)

7.

Oh the mouthwatering glory of a perfect tiny coconut tart nestled in a Tupperware container. Say yes to the young lad or lass selling them warm out of the oven and gobble that local delicacy right up! Many homemade treats are sold door to door on Main Street and the sidewalk, so keep your eye out.

PANTI RIPPA Number 7 is recommended courtesy of our favorite Belizean bartender, Peter Dacoff. Belize’s most famous cocktail, a blend of local coconut rum and pineapple juice, shaken over ice, is best enjoyed while lounging on a towel or beach chair gazing at the Caribbean.

Get the best deals on panti rippas at Yucatan Taco Stand

(Photo by: JOLIE POLLARD) Right: Tutti Frutti gelato. (Photo by Maya Island Air. )

Fish and mashed plantain peek out of a coconut milk broth in hudut served up by Fingerfoods Delightz in Seine Bight Village. (Photo courtesy of Fingerfoods Delightz)

11.

SMOKED FISH DIP

It's popping up all over the Peninsula these days. This savory and rich appetizer manages to embody in one dish the concentrated, collective Placencia memories of the aroma of fish cooking on a hundred wood burning fire hearths.

Stephen Mitchell of Cha Chi's uses Doyle Gardiner's (D-Tourz) smoked mackerel for his popular smoked fish dip served with chips and vegetable sticks. (Photo courtesy of Cha Chi's)

12

GELATO Belizeans plan entire day trips to Placencia for the sole purpose of getting a cone of Tutti Frutti. While the pistachio might not evoke our beaches, the coconut or pineapple will. Sample the seasonal soursop gelato to taste a flavour combination that takes us back to our Belizean childhood experience of digging into chilled soursop pulp topped with sweetened condensed milk.

The Placencia Breeze

Page 22

April 2019

Placencia Peninsula Guide ACCOMMODATIONS Placencia Villas and Golf Carts: Daily, weekly and monthly rentals.

Eleven comfortable and immaculate studios and apartments in the heart of Placencia Village (next to the "Rumfish" Restaurant), close to restaurants, shopping, banks as well as the beach. Cable TV, free wife, fully equipped kitchenette, private bathroom, fully screened porch, hammocks. Contact owner Steve Jacoby 615-6404 or Jaime Jacoby 615-6434. Email info@ placenciavillas.com Major credit cards accepted. Rates from 129 BZD incl.

Taxes.

Paradise Resort: Has most of the amenities & all the luxury of a large hotel. We are located on the ocean front. 12 A/C rooms. On site full service restaurant & bar, spa by the sea, all eco tours, diving, snorkeling, fishing, roof top Jacuzzi, Wi-Fi, dive shop, gift shop, kayak and golf cart rental.

Maya & Tropic Air agent. Email: info@belize123.com or give us a call at 523-3179/503-3479 Website:www.belize123.com

SHOPPING

Goss Chocolate: Goss Chocolate and cocoa powder made and sold only in SailFish Resort: 6 modern Suites with A/C, TV, Wi-Fi and private baths. 8 Belize. 100% organically grown Belizean cacao, Belizean cane sugar, whole Private rooms and 16 Bunks. Pool with swim-up Bar. Starting at $20 US + vanilla bean. Sold in grocery stores, gift shops, hotels and restaurants on tax / night. Book online @ www.SailFishBelize.com or 651-9885 the Peninsula and throughout Belize. Sorry, no factory tours! 523-3544, Tradewinds: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea & the Mountains of www.Goss-Chocolate.com, BTL Yellow Pages, Facebook. Winner World Belize! 9 Cabanas w/ private bath, hot/cold, 2 double beds, fans, Chocolate Awards for Goss White with Vanilla Bean. coffee maker (coffee provided), refrigerator & veranda w/ hammock.

Placencia Pharmacy: Prescriptions, OTC meds & vitamins as well as 523-3122 - trdewndpla@btl.net cosmetics & pet meds. Located just north of Atlantic Bank. Open Mon-Sat 8 am- 6 pm. Closed on Sundays & Public & Bank Holidays. P. 523-3346

CHEERS

Wallen’s Market: Hardware and houseware as well as wines, liquors, & select wholesale items. Located just south of BTL office. Serving the peninsula for Barefoot Bar: Open every day 11 am to midnight. Located on the beach. over 30 years! P. 503-3316; Office: 523-3128. wallensmarket@yahoo.com.

Live Music Wed, Fri & Sat at 5 pm & Sun at 1 pm. Happy Hour 5 -6 pm.

Largest drink menu around. Creative lunch & dinner specials. Known for Stiff Drinks ~ Tasty Food ~ Good Times! 523-3515. Follow us on Facebook!

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

Pool Table and Free Darts. 523-3412 SailFish Resort: Swim-up bar and pool open to public Wed-Sun @ 12 noon. 18+ only. Must wear appropriate swimwear. Daily drink specials.

Resort setting waterfront on lagoon at Sunset Point. BZ$5 daily pool fee. www.SailFishBelize.com or 651-9885.

DINING South of Airstrip De’Tatch Seafood Beach Grill & Bar: Serving the very best in Seafood and Local Cuisines. Open Mon-Sunday (Closed on Wed) 7am until 10pm for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (daily and nightly lunch & seafood dinner special). Come Enjoy the Perfect View (beach front), Great food, Great drink and Music to sooth the soul. Internet & Wireless also available. For Info or Take out orders please call: 503-3385 The Pickled Parrot: American Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads and ICE COLD BEER under an open-air thatched roof! Daily BZ$10 specials. Open M, W,TH,F,S with live music every Saturday. Call: 636-7068.

SERVICES

The Shack Beach Café: Placencia's original smoothie spot with fresh fruit smoothies. Try our famous seaweed shake, natural juices, veggie burgers, salads, wraps, hummus, falafel. We serve breakfast all day. Located on the beach at the foot of the main dock. Open everyday, 7 AM to 6 PM .

Placencia Office Supply: Business Service – Printing – Faxing – Copies.

Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar: Fine dining in A/C comfort or outdoor Internet. 523-3205 or plaofficesupply@gmail.com on the Patio. Specializing in Spanish & Creole. Open 7 days a week for Muzamanzie Photography: Contact us for wedding photographs, breakfast, lunch & dinner 7am - 10pm. Located on the Main Road. Visa & portraits, web & brochure images. 523-3563 or 603-5143 MC accepted. 523-3335 - wendylemus02@hotmail.com muzamanzie@yahoo.com

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Page 23

Festival/Event Calendar & National Public & Bank Holidays January 2019: New Year's Day, Jan. 1 The Garifuna Collective live at ChaChi's, Jan. 12 February 2019: Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival: Feb. 9-10 Lobster Season Closes: Feb. 15

REAL ESTATE Boris Mannsfeld & Associates: Our loyalty to our client’s best interest has established us as the top real set firm in the region. Our expert team is ready and excited to guide you step–by–step in finding the perfect property or securing a successful sale or investment. If you or your customers are seeking exceptional service, proven experience, professionalism, and the know-how and determination to get things done then look no further. Even though we specialize on the Placencia peninsula, we have a reliable network of real estate firms and developers throughout Belize with whom we can collaborate to provide you with real estate options across this beautiful country. Give us a call at Ph.523-3063 or Email:Info@RealEstatePlacencia. com.

CPC Real Estate Solutions: Your trusted real estate broker in Belize. We have over 20 years experience helping clients with their real estate transactions and take pride in assisting you with your property purchase. Please drop into our office for a free map of Belize, and no obligation answers to all your real estate questions. We’re located in the heart of the village, across from the Atlantic Bank. 672-9000 or belizeproperty.com RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize: RE/MAX the worldwide leader in real-estate is here so look no further. RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize is here to help educate you on the market. Whether you are buying or selling no one knows more and has a better reputation than us. Call the office at 523-3666 or email at info@1stchoicebelize.com

TOUR PROVIDERS Trip N Travel: Inland Jungle Tours – Monkey River Magic. 660-7189 lgodfrey@btl.net. Located on Main Street & Bruk Pat in Placencia Office Supply.

The Placencia Peninsula Guide features paid listings. Contact the Placencia BTIA office at 523-4045 or accounts@placencia.com for pricing information.

March 2019: Flaming Heart Ball Fire Department Fundraiser: TBA Maya Day: TBA National Heroes and Benefactors Holiday: March 12 April 2019: Holy Thursday: April 18 Good Friday: April 19 Holy Saturday: April 20 Easter Sunday: April 21

June 2019: Battle Cancer Walk TBA Placencia Lobsterfest: June 21-22-23 Rotary Duck Race at Lobsterfest Conch Season Closes (date dependent on quota requirements)

October 2019 Conch Season Opens: Oct. 1 Pan-American Day Holiday: Oct 14 BTIA Belize Birding Festival: Oct. 25-28 November 2019 GarifunaSettlement Day Holiday: Nov. 19

December 2019 End of the World September 2019: Marathon: Dec. 8 St. George’s Caye Mistletoe Ball: TBA Day Holiday: Sept.

Placencia Christmas 10 Boat Parade: TBA Flag Raising Christmas Street Ceremony and Parade: TBA Party: Sept. 20 Christmas Day Holiday: Belize Independence Dec. 25 Day Holiday and Boxing Day Holiday: Carnival: Sept. 21 Dec. 26 Placencia Yamaha New Year's Eve Beach Marelco Saltwater Fishing Tournament: Parties at Tipsy Tuna and Barefoot: Dec. 31 TBA

May: 2019 Labour Day: May 1 Sovereign's/ Commonwealth Day Holiday: May 24

Run while supporting high school scholarships for area students!

Dec. 8, 2019.

Visit runbelize.org

The Placencia Breeze

Page 24

croc corner

April 2019

Is The Gentle Water Giant Still on a Path to Local Extinction?

Keeping Seine Bight Clean & Green

recorded

By MARISA TELLEZ Co-founder & Executive Director Crocodile Research Coalition marisa.tellez@crcbelize.org

O

ver the last few years, the Crocodile Research Coalition (CRC) has been working with the community of Seine Bight in leading monthly trash pick-ups. CRC provides awareness and education to the youth, in particular, regarding the negative impact trash can have on the environment, the wildlife, and the health of the community as well.

With the assistance and support of Wanda Stakutis from the Seine Bight Running Club, the Seine Bight Village Council and donations provided by the CRC fundraiser led by Patrick Gonzalve of The Flying Pig, CRC led a campaign with the youth of Seine Bight to make educational and awareness signs about picking up trash and cleaning up the village.

A contest was held among the students of St. Alphonsus Roman Catholic Primary School in which the top six drafts for community signs were chosen from so many entries. Winners not only get to display their work of art in the community, but each student plus one guardian will get to participate in an early evening Placencia Lagoon wildlife excursion with the CRC, observing the various wildlife the lagoon has to offer.

in Belize’s waters by the Oceanic Society.

According to data obtained from Jamal Galves of Sea to Shore Alliance, there have been a high number of deaths over the past five years, accumulating to almost 200 indiBy DEIDRA MAHLER viduals reported dead. Over the past Education and Science Manager five years, the highest number of Southern Environmental Association deaths were 43 individuals, seen in education@seabelize.org 2018 (Graph 1). Jamal believes that to date, there are only about 1,000 he West Indian manatee takes individuals remaining. Most deaths its place among the elite of are often left undetermined due to Belize’s animal species, wide- the creature being found in a state of ly known as a “charismatic” species, decomposition, but a leading cause among others like the beloved jaguar. still remains as boat collisions. These

T St. Alphonsus R.C. Primary School students who participated in CRC's clean up campaign community sign contest show their creations.

Each of CRC's six runner ups were able to create their awareness sign and also hang it up in the community. With the international movement among youth to make a change for a better future, the interest of the local youth to inspire other community members to make change, is a great step forward to a cleaner, and more green future in Seine Bight! If you are interested in assisting CRC in our various clean-up campaigns, please contact us at program.coordinator@crcbelize.org! ▪

The manatee, currently listed as an endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, is believed to be on the decline with less than 2,500 individuals reported to be remaining

accidents often lead to the demise of the gentle mammal as propellers cut deep wounds into its body, damaging internal organs and causing See MANATEE TROUBLES on page 26

Get a taste of the CRC Croc-tail at Bubba Wuba’s!

Looking for a tasty new beverage to try in the village? How about the CRC-Buba Wubba Croc-tail creation?! Not only are you going to enjoy this drink with friends on a hot afternoon, but you are going to feel good drinking it too, as every dollar from every Croc-tail made goes towards the CRC’s captive and rehabilitation croc program.

Thanks to Bubba Wuba, crocs like our CRC Croc Ambassador Rick are happy knowing that their enclosure upkeep, veterinary examinations or food are through the donations and sponsorship of supporters of Bubba Wuba’s and their patrons. CRC will be providing information on our crocs to all those who buy the Croc-tail so you know more about the crocs and conservation effort you are supporting. So drink up Placencia, and take a “sip” into croc conservation!▪ See CROC CORNER on page 30

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Yucatan Taco Stand Continued from page 19

Page 25

Highway, he says he knows that empathizing with guests is the key to great service. He’s confident that guests will be treated to the best of Placencia’s “slow-paced environment;” after all, Brisa is all about “location, location, location.”

With chicken quesadillas that have me going back several times a week for more and a shrimp fritter appetizer that is truly exceptional, it’s my suggestion that you give them a whirl. And you might as well have Jim Taylor, a repeat guest of the a shot of tequila while you’re at it resort, says, “Brisa has a superb

Yucatan Taco Stand is part of Brisa Oceano Resort. Stretching from the main road to the beach, the resort will be expanding over the course of the next two years to include a pool, spa and gym, as well as more condos. (Photo by SHAYLENE TODD)

Brisa Oceano Resort currently has 24 rentable units ranging from studios to three-bedrooms. The resort is owned by Belize Barrier Reef Properties and developed in conjunction with Vision Properties.

(Photo by SHAYLENE TODD)

... because as their moniker says, location in the middle of town with “Life isn’t tacos and tequila, but it unobstructed ocean views.” Furthershould be!" more, “The units have a great layout with a full kitchen which is fantastic With both an air-conditioned space for traveling with kids. It's brand and an outdoor patio overlooking new and very well maintained and the road, you can choose to watch a tremendous value for the money. a game on their big screen TV (and Staff is friendly, and we can’t wait comfy couch) inside or watch the to be back!” he expounded.

Placencia coming and goings outside.

The resort itself currently has 24 rentable units ranging from studios The general manager of both the to three bedrooms. Brisa Oceano is restaurant and resort is Eugene owned by Belize Barrier Reef PropBaptist. A Tripadvisor World Award erties and developed in conjunction winner for service in his previous with Vision Properties led by David position at the Sleeping Giant Resort located just off the Hummingbird See YUCATAN TACO STAND on page 29

Brisa Oceano and The Yucatan Taco Stand General Manager Eugene Baptist, hands over a glass of coconut rum and pineapple juice known as the Panty Rippa in Belize.

Baptist says the resort's biggest draw is its location. (Photo by SHAYLENE TODD)

The Placencia Breeze

Page 26

April 2019

Manatee Troubles Continued from page 14

excessive bleeding. Other threats to these creatures, particularly in the Placencia Lagoon, include habitat fragmentation and loss due to development activities, drowning (by fishing gear) and pollution.

There is yet, still hope for these creatures, as efforts continue to be made

by Jamal, SEA and other NGOs from across the country. We would like to take this opportunity encourage boaters to exercise caution when traversing through the Placencia Lagoon and to take note of “No Wake” zones, indicated by signage placed around the lagoon. SEA thanks the surrounding communities for their continued support and would like to wish everyone a Happy National Manatee Appreciation Day! ▪

Seniors got talent! These 12 paintings were created by women participating in the weekly Rotary Club of Placencia Seniors' Luncheon. Craft sessions are led by Lynn Upham of The Pickled Parrot Bar in Placencia Village. Learn more about Rotary's activities and how you can participate on page 27. (Photos courtesy of JEFF SMITH/Rotary Club of Placencia)

THE DISH

Watercrafts have been the leading cause of deaths for manatees in Belize with a toal of 43 recorded in 2018 -- the highest number since 2014. Southern Environmental Association (SEA) urges boaters to respect no-wake zones and to exercise caution when traversing the Placencia Lagoon. According to Jamal Galves, "The Manatee Man" of Sea to Shore Alliance, there are an estimated 1,000 manatees remaining in Belize, so if you see one, consider yourself lucky.

Did you know The Shack Beach Cafe in Placencia Village is now open EVERYDAY and serving dinner?! Give Magda and her team a visit at the Point!

Belize Ocean Club in Maya Beach now has Indian food every Tuesday night! More on that in our next issue!

And we have some sad news ... Mango's in Maya Beach is closed and up for sale. We hope to see it running again soon.

2019 Licensed Tour Guides of the Placencia &Monkey River Tour Guide Associations A message from the Belize Tour Guide Association:

Did you know that it is illegal to guide a tour in Belize without a license? Licensed tour guides undergo a comprehensive training program, pass a swim test and are certified in CPR and first aid.

Ask to see your guide's license!

Adran Kus Ainsworth Leslie Sr. Akeem Tejada Alexander Chun Alexander Garbutt Alfred Williams Allan Arnold Allan Villanueva Alrin Muschamp Amir Neal Andre Williams Andres Fletes Andria Villanueva Angel Bonilla Arthur Westby Avelardo Cuevas Avelino Franco Basilio Ical Ben Bol Benjamin Young Bernard Leslie Jr. Bernard Leslie Sr. Bernard Valerio Blake Leslie Brian Coy Bryan Petillo Charles Longworth Clarence Rowland Claude Vernon Dale Godfrey

Dalila Sanchez Dan Santos Daniel Cabral Darmin Shivers Darnell Leslie Darrel Westby Darryl Lozano David Ortiz Derwin Garbutt Deshawndre Henderson Diego Coc Dion Muschamp Doren Leslie Sr. Doyle Gardiner Dwayne Young Earl Godfrey Ebenezer Gordon Edlin Leslie Edwin Carr Eldon Sanchez Elesario Shal Eliezer Munoz Elroy Burgess Elroy Tucker Elton Reyes Emelio Diaz Emilliano Bo Eric Foreman Ernesto Bol Eusebio Bonell Sr.

Evaristo Muschamp Ever Ramirez Eyanick Pop Fabian Vellos Faygon Villanueva Fedrito Villanueva Florencio Shal Floria Sanchaz Francisco Alvarado Francisco Linarez Francisco Tush Fredi Arias Genaro Chiac Gilbert Garbutt Grayson Sierra Harold Neal Henry Hamilton Hilario Tuch Hubert Neal Hubert Young Ian Cuevas Ian Vernon Iris Ramirez Ivan Leslie Jr. Ivan Leslie Sr. Jamie Leslie Jason Herrera Jason Westby Jason Williams Javier Martinez Jermaine Cain Jes Bech Jonathan Gabourel Jordan Griffith Julian Cabral Julio Garcia Keiran Eiley Kendis Hernandez Kenroy Eiley

Keon Leslie Khimar Spence Kirk Mayen Kylon Garbutt Lauro Trapp Lennox Palacio Leonardo Castro Leopold Ernest Garcia Leopold Leslie Leslie Faux Lincoln Garbutt Lincoln Garbutt Jr. Linda Garcia Lloydia Westby Luis Gabriel Lyra Spang Marco Supaul Mariko Wallen Marisha Betancourt Mark Buller Martin Cabral Marvin Escobar Matthew Leslie Maxwell Canelo Melissa Cabral Melvin Arevalo Mervin Leslie Jr. Mervin Leslie Sr. Miguel Herrera Miguel Ortiz Natasha Gibson Nazario Cal Nestor Teul Nick Pollard Norman Leslie Jr. Octario Ack Oliver Salam Orie Burgess Orlando Flores

Orlin Ipina Osacar Gutierrez Oscar Boo Pablo Mendoza Percival Gordon Peter Dacoff Polly Alford Prince Gongora Rafael Villanueva Randolph Faux Randolph Villanueva Renato Cal Rene Leslie Sr. Rhawn Godfrey Rolando Espat Sandy Asencio Shannae Garcia Shawn Young Sidney Lopez Stephen Lopez Stephen Young Tadeo Chun Terry Garbutt Thorman Turner Vaughan Leslie Vaughan Leslie Vicente Pau Vinicio Tuario Walter Aldana Walter Garbutt Warren Garbutt Wayne Castellanos Wellington Garbutt Willie Caal willington Garbutt Winsley Cuevas Ylman Linares Zane Garbutt Zane Westby Zeferino Mes

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Page 27

Rotary Club of Placencia Updates

By JEFF WHITE Contributing Writer Rotary Club of Placencia jjeffwhite@gmail.com

It has been a very busy month for the Rotary Club of Placencia. We were proud to see our four sponsored students enrolled in the Trades4LIfe vocational school graduate from their respective six-week, intensive training programs. Successfully completing their studies were two air conditioning students: Paulino Pop and Cesar Ortiz; one welding student, Alec Gomez and one computer repair student, Mark Tzub.

All students found the program to be extremely beneficial to their future careers. The Rotary Club will have six scholarships available for the 2020 session and we encourage prospective students and their employers to start thinking about applying early. Please contact Rotary Project Manager Rob Cook to get your name on the list: rcook2804@gmail.com.

Placencia Rotarians celebrate graduation day with Trades4Life students: Paulino Pop, Cesar Ortiz; Alec Gomez and Mark Tzub.

March 2 was the annual Rotary Club of Placencia auction. It was a fun and lively event at the Tipsy Tuna.

We wish to express our appreciation to all who participated in our recent annual Rotary Auction and contributed to its success. Thank you to all the community-minded business owners and individuals who generously donated goods and services for our auction! Thank you to all who attended and bid!

And a huge thank you to our Auctioneer Extraordinaire, Bob Davis!

As a result of everyone’s generosity, hard work and dedication, we are pleased to report the accounting of the proceeds of our Rotary Auction, 2019 as follows: Live Auction: $16,810; Silent Auction: $8,338; Raffles: $3,120. Total Revenue: $28,268. Expenses were: $3,648.55. Net profit: $24,619.45.

As with all our raised and donated revenue, the money will be used for community programs and projects that meet the Rotary International criteria. We welcome proposals from the community for consideration. If you would like a project proposal form or would like more information regarding acceptance criteria, please call our Project Manager, Rob Cook at 621-0976.

Peninsula seniors participate in Rotary's Mardi Gras luncheon at the Tipsy Tuna.

The Rotary Club of Placencia raised a net profit of over BZ$24,000 at this year's annual Rotary Auction held at the Tipsy Tuna Seaside and Sports Bar. All items in the auction were donated. (Photos courtesy of JEFF SMITH/Rotary Club of Placencia)

Our Senior’s group has been very active the past month with lots of fun arts and craft projects including a Mardi Gras event and an early St. Patrick's Day party. A big thank you to Tipsy Tuna and the Flying Pig for hosting the group while the Community Hall was booked for other events. The Senior’s get together every Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the Placencia Village Community CenThe Rotary Club of Placencia took tre and all local seniors are invited care of bar duties during the February to come out and have some fun.

Sidewalk Art Festival. It was a great success and $1,926.90 was raised To help support the Senior’s activities, to help with community projects. the Rotary Club of Placencia hosts

The Tipsy Tuna hosts seniors for a special St. Patrick's Day-themed luncheon. The weekly lunch and craft making session typically takes place inside the Placencia Village community center.

Friday Night Bingo at the Flying Pig. Placencia Village.

The action starts at 6 p.m., and every week there is a chance to win $500! We encourage all

Rotary Club of Placencia meetings are held every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Pickled Parrot Bar in

visiting Rotarians to stop by as well as anyone else who is interested in hearing about how the Rotary Club helps the local community.▪

The Placencia Breeze

Page 28

April 2019

Placencia Ups the Ante in March Entertainment There has been no shortage of live entertainment in Placencia this year, and the lineup just keeps getting more exciting! In addition to our popular weekly presentations at The Pickled Parrot Bar, Barefoot, Tipsy Tuna, Buba Wubba's, J-Dee's, The Yucatan Taco Stand, The Belize Ocean Club and Cha Chi's, (see page 3) there were some special presentations creating plenty of buzz on the Peninsula.

The Persuaders of Placencia have been delighting villagers and visitors with an eclectic mix of genres since the early 1990s. They've made a resurgence in the village recently, and while they've lost a few band members and made some changes over the years, they sound as good as ever. Check with the Tipsy Tuna or Cha Chi's for their next performance. (Photo by JOLIE POLLARD)

Island Vibes of Punta Gorda have been making their rounds in Placencia adding to the selection of reggae bands playing on the Peninsula. (Photo courtesy of BUBA WUBBA'S)

The Persuaders are back in action! We saw a resurgence of the veteran all-Placencia men band at Cha Chi's last year and now they've been making a regular appearance at the Tipsy Tuna on Saturday nights.

Check in with Tipsy or Cha Chi's to catch this spectacular show covering genres including disco, funk, calypso, brukdown, classic rock and more! You will not be disappointed!

A longtime headliner at the annual Placencia Lobsterfest, The Gilharry 7 Band from northern Belize gave an impressive performance at Cha Chi's on March 30 playing funk, reggae, soul, cumbia and calypso. The pizzeria, located next to Rumfish has been hosting many of Belize's biggest names in music including Punta Rock founder and painter, Pen Cayetano, calypso king, Lord Rhaburn, Belize's world music ambassadors, The Garifuna Collective and the popular conscious reggae band, Mile 41. Following Gilharry 7, Cha Chi's also hosted the more contemporary punta groups popular with the younger crowd, including The X-Band and Sweet Pain who was joined along by the "Godfather of Punta Rock," Chico Ramos. Belize City-based house and techno DJ Nightquest and owner of Mind and Me record label, also made a special appearance in March just before playing in El Salvador during his Central America and Mexico circuit.

The seaside bar at the Tipsy Tuna was especially sweet when reggae roots artist, Bruddah Adrian from Southern California brought some Sublime vibes to their deck stage with his ukulele. There's never too much reggae in Placencia, as Tropical Vibes continue to play every week at Barefoot Bar and Island Vibes of Punta Gorda have been making their rounds in the village playing at Buba Wubba's, Tipsy Tuna and Cha Chi's.

Early April also saw a couple out-of-the-ordinary shows on the Peninsula. On April 12, Cha Chi's hosted Brad Reeder for a stand-up comedy special. Reeder has performed on TV's Showtime, Comedy Central and Last Comic Standing. He's also opened for Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld and Ellen Degeneres, and he has headlined regularly in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.

The Belize Ocean Club surprised the Peninsula with a rare treat -live theatre! On April 7, the resort hosted Belize City-based traveling theatre group, Jankunu Productionz, with their play titled, "Belize Rewind." Through dance, poetry and song, the show told the story of Belize's journey to Independence from its colonial settlement days. â–Ş

Traveling theatre group, Jankunu Productionz, brought their acclaimed show, "Belize Rewind" to the Belize Ocean Club in early April. This year has seen plenty more options for live entertainment on the Placencia Peninsula, a welcome enhancement for both residents and visitors. (Source: www. thesanpedrosun.com)

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Yucatan Taco Stand Continued from page 25

and Kathy Keener (whose managed attractions in the Placencia area also include Gladden Caye Private Island, Little Harvest Caye and The Enclave). Stretching from the main road to the beach, Brisa Oceano will be expanding over the course of the next two years to include more condos, a pool, spa and gym.

With future plans for a drinks and an appetizer cart on the sidewalk, as well as a pulley system that will send those infamous frozen Panty Rippers to passersby on the road, they’ve got some really fun ideas to keep their guests and visitors coming back for more.

Brisa Oceano sees The Yucatan Stand as a complementary addition to the Placencia Road's restaurant row, adding to the booming and diverse food scene in Placencia Village and the wider Peninsula. â–Ş

Contributing writer, Shaylene Todd, is the sales manager for Itz'ana Resort & Residences in Placencia. She can often be seen running the road or enjoying a beach day with friends.

Correction: We were advised by D-Tourz, the tour provider mentioned in "March is for Macaws" published in our March 2019 edition of The Placencia Breeze, that macaws are best seen in January and February. According to D-Tourz, the birds tend to move to other areas outside Redbank Village in March.

The Placencia Breeze

Page 30

croc corner

Well-Known Accordion Player and Outspoken Community Elder, Evan Fairweather, Passes

What's Croc-in' Among CRC's Crocs?

By MARISA TELLEZ Co-founder & Executive Director Crocodile Research Coalition marisa.tellez@crcbelize.org

C

RC has received so much local and international support for our mission to provide THE FACTS about crocodiles, squashing the misguided beliefs about these animals that we see dramatized on TV shows and in the newspapers and social media posts. As more of the Placencia community becomes familiar with the crocs under CRC care as authorized by the Belize Forest Department, in addition to meeting our CRC Croc Ambassador Rick, CRC thought it would be great to give monthly updates of our Croc Ambassadors, rehabbers, and a few special wild crocs.

CRC Croc Ambassador Rick is getting a new home! This Morelet’s Crocodile is upgrading to a larger enclosure in a more natural and larger pond. There’s already a few “roommates” in his pond: fish, frogs and turtles! Turtles and crocs are known to coexist in the wild when crocs are smaller, and luckily for the turtles in this pond, Rick will likely get moved out to his permanent home at the future CRC facility before they might become an afternoon snack!

CRC Croc Ambassador Aemon is making great strides in his recovery! After a few months in captivity, this blind Morelet’s Crocodile is responding greatly to our target training enrichment program and utilizing sound to respond to commands.

April 2019

TK-421 spotted at Payne's Creek! This wild American crocodile made history in January as the first American crocodile in the country and in the Central American and Caribbean region to be tagged with a satellite tracker.

TK was in rehabilitation due to a hook stuck in his mouth, as he was being habituated by humans via feeding. With the assistance of internationally known Croc Behavior Expert Flavio Morrissey, CRC conducted negative reinforcement with TK to make him a good croc again − a croc that was shy and timid of humans. According to this past month’s data, TK is far away from human communities in the Toledo District, finding home in the Payne’s Creek area. There is one particular area that TK likes to visit at night, and we're guess it's for good fishing? Good hunting? ... Or perhaps TK has a midnight date with a special someone!

Courting Charlie? Why not highlight one of Placencia Lagoon’s crocs, right? If you live in the northern end of the Peninsula or in Maya Beach, you may have seen Charlie, a large nine-foot American Crocodile who enjoys late afternoon swims. Charlie knows he is the king of his pond and doesn’t seem shy. But if you get too close POOF! Charlie disappears into the water and won’t come up for quite a while; Charlie doesn’t like getting too close to people. Within the last two months there have been A LOT of Charlie sightings. Why? Charlie is looking for a lady friend as it is breeding season!

Would you like to meet CRC Croc Ambassador Rick? Are you interested in donating or sponsoring a croc? All donations will go towards food, enclosure upkeep, and veterinary care. Contact the CRC at program.coordinator@crcbelize. org for more information, or visitcrocodileresearchcoalition.org. ▪

Croc Behavior Expert Flavio Morrissey, CRC Team Miriam Boucher and Dr. Marisa Tellez, and David Hilmy from The Keep prepare American Croc TK421 for his satellite tracking adventures.

C

ondolences go out to the Fairweather and Westby families on the passing of Mr. Evan Fairweather. While in better health, Mr. Fairweather was popular in the Placencia Village community for his expert accordion playing. He was also a force during public meetings, always unafraid to ask bold questions and to voice his opinion on village matters.

Mr. Fairweather's funeral was held on April 12. (Photo courtesy of PVC)

Kids Learn Music from a Jazz Pro at Cha Chi's Jazz lovers have been flocking to Cha Chi's on Sunday nights to see multi-instrumentalist and Belize music teacher, Richard S. Pitts of Belize City give an electrifying performance on saxophone and piano alongside other artists at the pizzeria's Jazz Nights. Pitts has now partnered with the musicians' haven to share his knowledge of guitar, recorder, percussion and piano with the young ones on Saturdays. His first class held on April 6 saw seven students starting at eight years old, participate in a one-hour orientation on the sky deck. Want to enroll your child? Call Pitts at 626-0166. Pitts is currently a music teacher at Stann Creek Ecumenical High School in Dangriga. Previously, he taught music at Gwen Lizarraga High School in Belize City. He often collaborates with musicians and shows nationwide. Pitts is the cousin of popular Belizean singer, Marlyn Vansen and one of the founders of Belize Band Fest.▪

Classes for piano, guitar and percussion are open to children as young as eight years old. Recorder lessons are open to children ages five to eight. (Photo courtesy of Cha Chi's.)

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Transportation Information D' Express Boat - Capt. Grevil, 624-6509- Pay aboard. Departs Placencia Fridays from MnM's Service Station at 9 a.m. Arrives in Big Creek at10 a.m. then departs Big Creek at 11 a.m. Arrives in Puerto Cortez, Honduras at 2 p.m. at Laguna.

• Returns to Placencia on Mondays: Departs Puerto Cortez, Honduras at 11:30 a.m. Arrives in Big Creek at noon. Departs Big Creek at 1:30 p.m. Arrives in Placencia at 2:45 p.m.

Hokey Pokey Boat - 667-1821 or 665-7242 • Placencia (MnM Dock) → Independence/Mango Creek: Everday: 6:45 a.m., 7:45 a.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: Everday: 6:30am, 7:30 a.m., 8a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2:30pm, 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. (except on Sundays) Ritchie’s Bus - 631-7751 or 523-3806 Regular Bus: • Placencia → Dangriga (10 BZD): Monday - Saturday: 7 a.m., 12:45 p.m and 2:30 p.m.

Sundays: 2:30 p.m.

• Dangriga → Placencia: Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m., 2 p.m.; 4:30p.m and 6:15 p.m.

Sundays: 11 a.m. and 6:15 p.m.

Express Bus, Monday - Saturday: • Placencia → Dangriga → Belmopan → Belize City (20 BZD): Monday - Friday: 6:15 a.m. and *2:30 p.m. (*not express) • Belize City → Belmopan → Placencia: Monday - Saturday: 3:30 p.m.

James Bus Line: Regular Bus: • Belize City → Belmopan → Dangriga → Independence → Punta Gorda 6.15 am

7.30 am

9.15 am

10.45 am

12.45 pm

7.15 am

8.30 am

10.15 am

11.45 am

1.45 pm

8.15 am

9.30 am

11.15 pm

12.45 pm

2.45 pm

9.15 am

10.30 am

12.15 pm

1.45 pm

3.45 pm

10.15 am

11.30 am

1.15 pm

2.45 pm

4.45 pm

12.15 pm

1.30 pm

3.15 pm

4.45 pm

6.45 pm

1.45 pm

3.00 pm

4.45 pm

6.00 pm

7.45 pm

3.15 pm

4.00 pm

6.15 pm

7.45 pm

9.45 pm

• Punta Gorda → Independence → Dangriga → Belmopan → Belize City 3.50 am

6.00 am

7.30 am

9.15 am

10.30 am

4.50 am

7.00 am

8.30 am

10.15 am

11.30 am

5.50 am

8.00 am

9.30 am

11.15 am

12.30 pm

7.50 am

10.00 am

11.30 am

1.15 pm

2.30 pm

9.50 am

12.00 pm

1.30 pm

3.15 pm

4.30 pm

11.50 pm

2.00 pm

3.30 pm

5.15 pm

6.30 pm

1.50 pm

4.00 pm

5.00 pm

6.45 pm

8.00 pm

2.50 pm

5.00 pm

5.45 pm

7.15 pm

8.30 pm

3.50 pm **

5.45 pm **

7.00 pm **

8.30 pm **

9.30 pm **

Express Bus: • Belize City → Belmopan → Dangriga → Independence → Punta Gorda 5.15 am

6.30 am

7.45 am

9.00 am

10.30 am

3.45 pm*

5.00 pm*

6.15 pm*

7.30 pm*

9.00 pm*

• Punta Gorda → Independence → Dangriga → Belmopan → Belize City 6.00 am*

7.30 am*

8.30 am*

9.45 am*

10.45 am*

** (except Saturday) * (except Sunday)

BEBB BUS LINE (Stops at Hopkins): • Dangriga → Placencia: Leave 5:30 a.m. | Arrive 7:00 a.m.

Leave 8:30 a.m. | Arrive 10:00 a.m.

• Placencia → Dangriga: Leave 10:30 a.m. | Arrive 12:00 noon → Connect to 12:30 p.m.

James to Belize City Leave 5:30 p.m. | Arrive 7:00 p.m. → Connect to 7:30 p.m.

James to Belize City 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.

Community Contacts & Info Placencia Tourism Center +(501) 523-4045 Emergencies • • • • • • •

Police: 503-3142 Fire: 503-3222 Emergency Response Team: 223-3292 Placencia Medical Center: 503-3326 or Dr. Kevin Guerra: 615-1571 Seine Bight Medical Center: 523-3328 Independence Medical Center: 523-2167 Dr. Alexis Caballero: 622-7648

Placencia Peninsula Services • • • • • • • • •

Placencia Village Council: 523-3396 Placencia Water Board: 523-4036 Placencia Sanitation: 523-3273 Placencia Post Office: 503-3104 Seine Bight Village Council: 523-3660 Seine Bight Water Board: 523-3554 U.S. Warden, Stann Creek Rural: Bill Taylor, 602-7768 Placencia NAR-ANON: 664-8699 Placencia AA: 620-2848

Placencia Humane Society Contact Emergency Numbers • PHS: 604-8676 • Doctor Orlando Baptist: 620-1099 • Doctor Mia Canton: 671-1356 (office), 610-1356 (cell),

stanncreekanimalhospital@gmail.com

• Hopkins Humane Society (Joseph): 667-5432 • Doctor Floyd Bennett: 605-5822 • Animal Medical Centre (Belize City) 223-3781, 223-0251 • Doctor Lopez: 670-5363

Information on Placencia Peninsula Churches • Calvary Chapel of the Placencia Peninsula: Meeting in Seine Bight Village. Sunday Services: 10:30 A.M. and 6:30 P.M. (Sunday School provided). Wednesday: Men’s and Women’s Bible Study 6:30 P.M. Friday: Youth Group - 5:30 P.M. Non denominational Church - Call Pastor Jim Mensie 523-3362 • 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 • Placencia Fellowship: All are welcome…Come as you are! Biblebased learning, worshiping and following Christ. We meet Sundays at 10:30am. Call 667-4805 or visit “Placencia Church” on Facebook for this week’s location.

• Seine Bight Catholic Church: Services Sundays 8:30 a.m. Seine Bight Village. Lay Ministers Catholic (lay) - Elaine Castillo 6235004 or Florita Palacio 635-6612 • Lighthouse Worship Center: Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

Services: Sunday 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Non Denominational - Pastor Moore 523-3333 • Lighthouse Worship Center: Spanish Service: Mondays, Thursdays & Saturdays at 7:00pm • Seventh Day Adventist: Services Fridays at 6pm; Saturdays 9am Lay ministers. U. Torres 503-2270 • St. John’s Memorial: Placencia Anglican (Episcopal) Church: Sunday services at 8:30 a.m.

The Placencia Breeze

April 2019