The Placencia Breeze August 2018

A FREE monthly tourism and community newspaper by the Placencia BTIA serving the Placencia Peninsula in Stann Creek, Belize since 1999.

SEINE BIGHT DAY

August 2018

The Placencia Breeze

Weekend Celebrations: August 17-18-19

The Placencia Breeze

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INSIDE

Pedestrian Bumps, No-Parking Zones and Surface Traffic Lines Added to Placencia Road ... pg. 3 Q&A with Brice Dial ... pg. 5 Croc Corner ... pg. 6 Former Placencia Resident and Business Owner Jake Roberts Passes Unexpectedly at 72 ... pg. 7 Kirwin Ramirez: A Community Hero ... pg. 9 From the Fire Hearth: Eating in Seine Bight ... pg. 11 Library Opens in Seine Bight Village ... pg. 12 Placencia BTIA Membership Listing ... pages 15 and 18 Placencia Peninsula MAP ... pages 16-17

AUGUST 2018 Wendy's Fire: An Inspirational True Story ... pg. 19 Placencia Peninsula Guide ... pgs. 22-23 Rotar y Updates: Rob Cook Named New Rotary Club of Placencia President; Longtime Rotarian Harold Wallen Awarded Paul Harris Fellowship ... pg. 26

August 2018

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Fragments of Hope (FoH) will be hosting their Annual Public Meeting at the Seine Bight Community Center Monday, August 20, at 6 p.m. and in Monkey River at Ivan’s Bar & Restaurant on Saturday, August 25 at 6 p.m.

The meeting will comprise of updates on current activities under FoH and invited guests, Crocodile Research Coalition and Southern Environmental Association.

We seek feedback from meeting participants on their community needs and new ideas, so bring a friend and join us. Light refreshments will be provided!

5K Run/Walk Fundraiser for the Future Seine Bight Garifuna Museum of History and Culture

Placencia Humane Society Pet Clinic Dates ... pg. 27 Festival Calendar ... pg. 27 Next Chance to Round Up Predatory Lionfish Coming in September ... pg. 28 Community Contacts & Info ... pg. 31 Peninsula Happenings ... pg. 32

ON THE COVER: "Faces of Seine Bight" by Jolie Pollard.

Photographed on Monday, July 30. Thanks to everyone who agreed to have their pictures taken and special thanks to Mr. Leonard Williams and John Guzman for taking the time to chat about Seine Bight Day.

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.

EDITOR IN CHIEF & LAYOUT DESIGNER: Jolie Pollard, pollard.jolie@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHERS: Marion and Ed Carr of Muzamanzie Photographs muzamanzie@gmail.com ADVERTISING OFFICERS: Jenria Lozano, director@placencia.com Natasha Eiley, accounts@placencia.com PRINTER: Norman’s Printing, Belize City, Belize

The Seine Bight Reservoir to Museum Foundation, a registered non-profit organization in Belize, is hosting its third annual 5km+ Run / Walk.

The Seine Bight Reservoir to Museum Foundation was established in July 2014 to spearhead the transformation of the historic village water reservoir in Seine Bight Village into a local Garifuna cultural and historical museum.

When / Start: 5km+ Run / Walk Saturday, August 25, 6 a.m.

Where: Start at Rocky Point Inn at the former gym in Maya Beach (mile 15.5) and finish at the site of the future Seine Bight Museum of Garifuna Culture and History.

[The museum site is located on the seaside of the main road north of Vern's Restaurant in Seine Bight Village] Registration Fees: BZ$20 (Students) BZ$35 (Adults) Registration includes: - A T-shirt (must register by Saturday, August 18 to ensure a T-shirt on race day) - A custom finisher's medal at the finish line - Refreshments and a Garifuna cultural performance at the finish line Registration is available online at: https://goo.gl/jnYxSD You can also visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/242375306310469/ Registration forms are also available at Gee-Pee's Internet Cafe in Seine Bight (Mile 19 road marker) and at ICB Insurance Seine Bight (Across from Seine Bight Football Field).

5k Run / Walk Agenda: Continuous Registration at: Gee-Pee's Internet Cafe, Seine Bight, Belize (Mile 19 marker) ICB Insurance, Seine Bight, Belize (Across from Seine Bight Football Field) Saturday, August 25: 5:00 - 5:45 a.m. - Late registration at Rocky Point Inn 5:15 a.m. - Ritchie's Bus participant pickup in Placencia 5:30 a.m. - Ritchie's Bus participant pickup in Seine Bight 5:40 a.m. - Runners dropped off at Rocky Point Inn, Start Line in Maya Beach 5:55 a.m. - Welcome and Belize National Anthem 6:00 a.m. - 5km Run / Walk Start!

7:30 a.m. - Start of Garifuna cultural performance and display at the finish line Free transportation to the start line in Maya Beach courtesy of the Ritchie's Bus Service.

Support the drive to transform the historic water reservoir in Seine Bight into a local museum of Garifuna History and Culture! All proceeds go directly to the registered non-profit Seine Bight Reservoir to Museum Foundation to assist with the completion of the construction of the museum.

We look forward to your presence!

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

(Advert sponsored by the Placencia BTIA)

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Pedestrian Bumps, No-Parking Zones and Surface Traffic Lines Added to Placencia Road

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

Not resting on their laurels after successfully lobbying the Government of Belize to begin paving the pot-hole ridden stretch of the Placencia Road from the south of the airstrip to the Placencia Municipal Pier in February this year, the Placencia Village Council (PVC) have

remained committed to their own village-funded infrastructural improvements to ensure safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

As construction of the new concrete pedestrian sidewalk that commenced in June and joins the newly paved asphalt road speedily comes along, the PVC have been adding more enhancements that will continue through August. Led by Charles PVC Field Works Supervisor “Dickie” Westby, the PVC Charles "Dickie" Westby has

Pedestrian bump crossing under construction at the intersection of the Placencia Road and Kubaaly Street in Placencia Village.

Previously only marked by a yellow school crossing sign, the new development is intended to provide more safety to children who traverse the road on their way to St. John's Anglican Memorial Primary School and others heading to the Placencia Health Center. (Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

been coordinating road infrastructural improvements in Placencia Village.

(Photo: MUZAMANZIE PHOTOGRAPHS)

Field Works Supervisor, 100-foot, red “No-Parking Zones” are being painted along the edge of the new sidewalk at every curve.

According to Westby, these no-parking zones that are also seen in urban areas of Belize will also apply to the store fronts of the village’s supermarkets and smaller grocery stores to prevent the traffic congestion that has become highly problematic in the increasingly busy village. The PVC Chairwoman Ilsa Villanueva said that she, Westby and her team of councilors are also working on locating a specific site along the road that will be designated for delivery truck parking.

One of several new 100-foot, no-parking, red zones begins at the curve starting at the corner of Jew Fish lane. (Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

bump. “Just three,” Westby emphasized when explaining that the PVC has taken much consideration of the hindrance too many bumps can pose to the ambulance and fire truck during emergencies. "They suffer enough," he said. The speed "bump" is being placed at the widest curve in the village that runs in front of Jacki Tipton’s In addition to the no-parking Casa Placencia property.

No longer appearing like a no-rules apply, pirate's haven, new zones, the PVC are build- Over the years, Tipton has yellow lines on the Placencia Road in Placencia Village join oth- ing two pedestrian bump been forced to construct er enhancements that remind users that the Belize traffic laws crossings and one speed barriers protecting her hotel are in effect. (Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

from crashes by speeding drivers. The elated Tipton who is co-funding the two rows of yellow bump discs before and after the curve along with the PVC said she is happy her dream is finally coming true after repeated requests to traffic authorities off the Peninsula for a solution. As for the pedestrian crossing bumps, one will be built across from Top Value See PLACENCIA ROAD IMPROVEMENTS on page 6

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The Placencia Breeze

August 2018

W

hen did you first start doing yoga, and why did you keep doing it?

I started yoga about 13 years ago. Originally, I started in search of a physical workout. I quickly realized it did a lot more for me than just that; it calmed my mind and made me feel a sense of peace that I had never found with any other exercise I had ever done. I did yoga for a few years, but right around that time my sister and I were starting our business, and I kind of drifted away from my practice.

Why did you apply to the ROC Scholarship course in India?

For years now it has been a dream of mine to go to India. My father was planning a trip there and passed away before ever making it. I held on to his India guide book in hopes to one day book that trip and carry out his dream.

After getting deeper into yoga through my practice at the former BB Yoga Flow with Agnes Balawejder-Busch I really started to think of one day getting to India. Every time Agnes would return from her trips to India I would see the growth in her teaching and just a full body glow! For me, it was amazing to watch! So, when I saw the opportunity arise for this scholarship through ROC, I knew I had to apply!

Q &A with Brice Dial Popularly known as the co-owner of Placencia's landmark Barefoot Beach Bar along with her sister Cassie, Brice Dial has recently embarked on a life-changing yoga path that is now taking her to India. Trained under former Placencia yoga studio owner Agnes Balawejder-Busch and certified through Om Shanti Belize in Belize City, the 37-year-old mother of two is this year's recipient of the Rhythm of Change (ROC) scholarship, which grants Dial a monthlong intensive trainer's course in Bengaluru funded by the Indian High Commission through the Indian Consulate in Belize. The scholarship commits Dial to advance ROC's mission to use yoga to promote peace building and uplift communities in Belize.

Page 5 of many who have been lucky enough to call her their teacher. Her hunger to learn and always returning with more knowledge to share was exciting as her student. I feel that while I and all her other faithful students watched her growing as teacher, she watched us all growing as her students! It was such an amazing feeling to walk into her studio with a room full of people that were there because they wanted to be there not because they had to be there. We all became a family. She has the warmest energy one could ever imagine and the most calming voice. I would always joke, asking if she would just come stand beside my bed at night and talk.

Agnes is so dear to me, and she holds a special place in my heart. To be in such a small village and to have had a teacher of her magnitude was truly a blessing.

What do you consider the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your practice?

What are you most looking forward to in the month you’ll be away?

Agnes would always tell me I needed to develop my personal practice! I would say, "Why? I have you, I love coming to the studio!" I kept wondering why she should would encourage me to find a personal practice that may lead me away from her studio. Then the dreaded news came that Agnes and her family were planning to move away, and I realized why she had been telling me to start a personal home practice. I was in a state of panic! My practice was deepening so much, and I think I was addicted to Agnes and the studio!

Oh my! Where can I start? I don’t know if there is just one thing I’m most looking forward to.

First off, I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to go study yoga in India where it all began! I know I will come back with so much more knowledge to share! I am really excited to experience a new country and its rich culture. From the people, the sites, the flavors, the smells. Just to be able to soak it all in!

Soon after finding out she was leaving, Agnes announced she would be offering a 200 hour teacher training! I knew I had to do it! It was my last chance to try and get as much wisdom and knowledge out of her and really just spend time with such an amazing woman. I didn’t plan on teaching yoga, I just knew that with Agnes leaving this is what I needed to ensure a solid practice after she was gone.

How do you intend to evolve your yoga practice in the future?

I did this course along with two other amazing people. I can speak for myself, and I’m pretty sure for them, that we all felt we had the best teacher ever. I realized after about three weeks into the class that while I started thinking I didn’t want to teach yoga, that there was no way I could possess this knowledge and these tools and not share it with as many people that I could.

I am certain this experience will bring so much growth to my personal practice, as well as my teaching of yoga. I have definitely found inner peace in yoga, and my biggest hope is to be able to return with more knowledge and the tools to help other people find the same. I hope to always be willing and hungry to learn as a student and as a teacher, to be humble enough to realize that my students are my biggest teachers.

By Shaylene Todd

Brice Dial is deepening her yoga practice to promote social change. (Photo: EMMA WESTBY)

Is there someone you consider a role model or mentor in your yoga journey?

This question makes me so emotional! I would not be where I am in my yoga practice and even in my day-to-day life if I had not met Agnes.

I practiced yoga with Agnes for about three to four years, and her influence made me into a better person!

No matter the day I was having, whenever I walked in to her studio, I always left feeling better, more sure of myself and everything seemed to make a bit more sense. Her style of teaching is magical!

I’m certain Agnes has touched the lives

Although I was on the right track, nothing could really prepare me for Agnes’ departure, I felt like the rug had been ripped out from under me.

I really, really struggled with keeping up with my practice. I was miserable. Little by little I got back on track and realized that for me to be the me I want to be, there has to be yoga!

And now, we have come full circle to the place where I’m sitting here in disbelief that I’m even writing about my journey of yoga that is now taking me to India.▪ Contributing Feature Writer, Shaylene Todd works as Sales Manager for Itz'ana Resort & Residences in Placencia.

She can often be seen running the road or enjoying a beach day with friends. Reach her at shaylenetodd@gmail.com.

The Placencia Breeze

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Placencia Road Improvements Continued from page 3

Supermarket located just south of the water tower.

The PVC has identified that area as a precarious location for road users. “It’s a busy spot,” said Westby, “With the pharmacy and Atlantic Bank across the street, it’s a highly trafficked area, and if people don’t take care crossing the road or reversing their vehicles out of the store front parking right now as it is, they can get hurt.” The second pedestrian crossing will be placed at the intersection of the Placencia Road and Kubaaly Street, the small road that winds between Carol’s Cabanas and Dawn’s Grill. It's used by many children walking to St. John’s Anglican Memorial Primary School and serves as an important route for people heading to the Placencia Health Center by vehicle.

According to Westby, the crossings will measure four inches tall as opposed to the “eight-inch bump” that sits in front of the Turtle Inn. “Motorists should find these less imposing,” Westby said.

croc corner

Fostering the Next Generation of National Scientists translational ecology).

Albert Loewen of A.L. Construction Company Limited has been a major sponsor of the new Placencia Road sidewalk providing materials and labour at a no-profit cost. Each square foot of the proposed 3,788 foot-long sidewalk costs the community BZ$56.25 as opposed to a BZ$70 market price. Loewen also sponsored 100 feet of sidewalk at a cost value of BZ$5,625.

The newly paved road now boasts yellow dividing traffic lines too. Westby and Villanueva said they hope that these will remind drivers of the traffic laws pertaining to staying in one’s own lane and respecting no passing zones.

While road infrastructural improvements are ongoing, the PVC said they are committed to designing a comprehensive traffic plan for the village and will be meeting with Belize Traffic Commissioner Tirsio Galvez for guidance. According to the PVC chairlady, funding (in addition to donations received from generous individuals and businesses) for the recent road improvements have come from the

August 2018

This year’s CRC UB Intern is Jonathan Triminio from Orange Walk. Jonathan is a biology major, with a keen interest in wildlife ecology. His inBy MARISA TELLEZ ternship so far has not Co-founder & Executive Director, only included crocodile Crocodile Research Coalition research around Placenmarisa.tellez@crcbelize.org cia Lagoon, but thanks to financial donations from businesses in Orange Walk esides our mission and San Pedro, Jonathan of conservation has joined the CRC in and management crocodile excursions at the of crocodiles and their Rio Bravo Conservation habitat, the Crocodile Re- area in collaboration with search Coalition (CRC) Programme of Belize, as is committed to foster- well as at Bacalar Chico ing the next generation with Blue Ventures on of enthusiastic conserva- Ambergris Caye. Needless tionists and scientists to to say this internship not further the conservation only provides an inteland preservation of Cen- lectual stimulus, but also tral America’s wildlife provides an opportunity and habitats, particularly for interns to travel Belize here in Belize. Last year given the CRC’s research the CRC partnered with around the country.

University of Belize (UB) to provide one Belizean Jonathan’s arrival to the student an opportunity to CRC coincided with crocparticipate in a seven-10 odile hatchling season, so week intense research pro- he’s learned a lot about the gram to build their skills in importance of key habitats wildlife research, but most necessary for successful importantly, how to then nesting of American and implement the scientific Morelet’s crocodiles. He’s research into wildlife policy and management (i.e. See CROC CORNER on page 7

B

PVC statement shows the total funding as of July 25, 2018 for the Placencia Road sidewalk standing at BZ$90,499.50 covering 1,612 feet. This includes BZ$56,250 from the modest PVC coffers. A fundraising goal of BZ$122,575.50 remains to cover the rest of the proposed sidewalk.

PVC's main revenue streams that include liquor license fees and the Placencia Lobsterfest bar sales and vendor fees. The PVC also accessed funds saved through the for-

mer government appointed Placencia Water Board that was replaced by the government majority-owned utility company Belize Water Services Limited in 2014 ▪

Would you like to donate towards the completion of the Placencia Road sidewalk in Placencia Village?

Donations can be made at the PVC office or online at www.gofundme.com/placencias-new-sidewalk.

You can also contact the PVC for more information at placenciavillagecouncil@gmail.com

CRC's University of Belize intern, Jonathan Triminio, of Orange Walk examines a crocodile hatchling. The CRC internship has allowed the Belizean biology major to conduct research around the Placencia Lagoon and in sites located in Orange Walk and Ambergris Caye. (Photo: MARISA TELLEZ/CRC)

Former Placencia Resident and Business Owner Jake Roberts Passes Unexpectedly at 72 Roberts was the founder of the legendary Purple Space Monkey that began as the first internet cafe in Placencia Village in 1999 and persevered through a hurricane, a fire and subsequent new owners. Purple Space Monkey finally closed its doors in 2014 when the property was sold to make room for a Coldwell Banker real estate office. Roberts was also a founding member of the Placencia Humane Society and a local philanthropist.

By MARILYN BECKSTEAD

F

ormer Placencia resident and business owner Jake Roberts died unexpectedly in Canada on June 20 as a result of complications following surgery.

Jake first visited Placencia in the spring of 1999. He returned that summer with Brad Turton to build and operate the Purple Space Monkey, the first internet café in the village. This venture was immediately The original Purple Space Monkey internet cafe of 1999 was the successful establishing a first large commercial development across from the Placencia sports field. Today the spot houses a closed Coldwell Banker reputation for hospitality real estate office next to ChaChi's. (Photo: MARILYN BECKSTEAD) and good food well beyond Belize borfirst career, he loved ders. The restaurant the spotlight and was survived Hurricane a great raconteur. But Iris in 2001 operating behind the scenes he until 2006 under the quietly provided a big thatch located in helping hand to inwhat is now the Vildividuals and to the lage Square. In 2006 community. a devastating fire destroyed the restaurant, I first met him in Sepadjacent shops and tember of 1999 when apartments; however, he was the chairman of the new Purple Space the Placencia Humane Monkey reopened Society (PHS) and that fall. Jake sold the a founding member. property in 2007 and He didn’t last long in moved on, but he left that position. Chairing behind an en- Jake stands below the popular Space Monkey painting inspired those early during legacy. by "Ham the Astrochimp," the first non-human launched into meetings was space in 1961 and painted by a University of Regina student in like trying to Publicly, Jake Canada where Jake taught theatre. (Photo: MARILYN BECKSTEAD) herd cats. He was a larger ality who enjoyed hosting See PURPLE SPACE MONKEY than life figJAKE OBIT. on page 10 ure with a bombastic person- his guests. An actor in his

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croc corner Continued from page 6

also learned that it’s very important to leave hatchlings alone, as mama crocodiles are very protective mothers.

The continued development around the Placencia Lagoon threatens the survival of crocodiles, as well as the other wildlife that depend on mangroves and certain habitat for their survival, particularly during periods where they are vulnerable to predation. The CRC anticipates that our surveys of the Placencia Lagoon will assist in pinpointing key habitat for crocodiles and other wildlife, and we hope Jonathan learns how science can be a useful tool to ensure habitat conservation, while also promoting sustainable development.

Development as a scientist is not only getting the hands-on work, but is also learning how to network and communicate with other scientists. Jonathan, as well as last year‘s UB scholar Veronica Escalante from Belmopan along with next year’s intern will have a chance to mingle with some of the world’s top experts at the IUCN/SSC-Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG) Regional Meeting in June 2019 in Belize, as well as the international CSG working meeting in Chetumal, Mexico 2020.

We encourage our interns to present at these meetings, and we hope this will provide them future opportunities to work internationally with some of the world’s top scientists.

The CRC hopes the development of the CRC UB Intern Program will empower students like Jonathan, and provide the confidence needed to pursue higher education, utilizing their new knowledge and expertise to assist in wildlife conservation and environmental issues in Belize.

And as further support and financial donations grow, we hope to extend yearround internships for local college students as well as UB students.

Interested in contributing to the CRC’s UB Intern Program, or assisting us in growing a local internship program? Please contact marisa.tellez@crcbelize. org for further information on donating or contributing to this scientific development program.▪ Dr. Marisa Tellez holds a PhD and Master's in Biology. She has been working with crocodilians in Belize and in the Central American region for 10 years. Besides her love of wildlife, she also enjoys teaching the Afro-Brazilian martial art capoeira in the community of Seine Bight.

Above Grounds Coffee House Supporting Small Independent Producers

Shade Grown Organic Guatemalan Coffee

Main Road , Past Football (Soccer) Field South End of the Village

7am—4pm Monday to Saturday 7am—Noon Sunday Espresso / Brewed & Iced Coffees - Decaf - Goss Chocolate Drinks Iced Teas - Fresh Juices - Bagels - Breads by the Slice - High Speed Wi-Fi Skype Friendly Coffee by the Lb. Whole Bean or Ground to Order Phone 634 3212

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The Placencia Breeze

August 2018

Page 9

Kirwin Ramirez: A Community Hero

G

rowing up on the streets of Seine Bight, 27 yearold Kirwin had a challenging start. As a child, he was bullied by his peers, which caused low self-esteem, frustration and anger.

He would often become embroiled in fights and was walking dangerously on a path of self-destruction. He often felt worthless, depressed, and even contemplated suicide.

His honest and poignant lyrics speak to all of us as a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities, bringing us closer together as he talks about the pain, the love and the heartbreaks to which many of us can relate. His style of music is influenced by local and international reggae and rap artists.

In his song ‘Giving up is not an option’, he sends a message of hope saying that no matter how difficult But music became his saving things may become, to look grace. He discovered his inside yourself and to God passion at a very young age. for strength. His powerful He started free-styling and lyrics stem from his personal recording his songs when he experiences, his struggles, was only 11. Music allowed and things he observes in Kirwin Ramirez of Seine Bight Village says he overcame the him to channel his anger and the world, such as injustice early obstacles of his life through his passion for music, faith in confusion into something and racism.

God and his community volunteer work. meaningful and beautiful.

This self-taught musician In addition to his thriving his cousin, is another import- ents of the village; he would learned how to play guitar, music career, he is an active ant person helping him in his love to open a salon for drums and the keyboard as community player. Wherevmission. Kirwin also orga- girls to offer hair-braiding a form of self-expression er there is change, Kirwin nizes beach clean ups, and and a barber shop for the and healing. In his youth, he is there. He hosts a youth if he tells one child about it, boys. He thinks acquiring joined a band called, "Fall- group every Friday evening it’s only a matter of minutes boats and training some tour en Star" and performed at at his church that sometimes before 20 or 30 kids come guides would help increase special events and parties. gathers up to one hundred running to help. They look the tourism in the village Music became everything to kids. He provides them a safe up to him as a role model, a and help it prosper. In the him; it saved his life. space for worship and other motivator, and a counsellor. future, he is aspiring to be community activities. He’s To me, he is nothing short of part of the Seine Bight VilAt the age of 17, having been also been coaching three an angel. lage Council to participate in through many difficult times, generations of football (socdecision-making and seeking Kirwin became a believer cer) players, some of which On top of all his voluntary more financial support to of God. He started praying have become semi-profeswork, he is currently com- carry out his much-needed and studying the Bible, and sional. He has been very acpleting his associates degree initiatives. with His help, turned his life tive in the Seine Bight girls’ in natural resources managearound. The guidance of his running club, spearheaded ment while teaching phys- His advice to the youth is to loving mother and his new- by Wanda Stakutis (who has ical education at Peninsula “love the life you live, and found spirituality helped him also been heavily involved in International Academy in live the life you love, but be find strength and courage many community projects, Placencia and offering much careful of the choices you to face these obstacles and such as the opening of the of his time playing music at make. Those choices will to challenge himself into new library). The children his church. affect the course of your making better choices for Kirwin mentors are growlife”. He encourages kids his future. ing to become independent, When I asked him where and teens to make their edpositive, and hard-working he gets all his energy (and ucation a priority, and to go adults, who are themselves Much of his artistic work whether or not he ever to college so that more doors effecting change in Seine is the fruit of his spiritual sleeps!) he answered that open to them, and they can Bight, a community that awakenings. Over the years, God gives him everything he live their dreams. struggles with many social and as his faith grew, his needs to live out his purpose. ills such as domestic viomusical style evolved. He He says the power comes He would like to thank evlence, child abuse, crime started creating his own from our mind too, and if eryone who has supported and alcoholism that are ofvideo clips with family and we have a strong mind, we him emotionally and finanten hidden being under the friends. He even attracted can accomplish anything; we cially over the years. He is glow of a thriving tourism and inspired followers of all can even save lives. And I especially thankful for his destination. ages from his village and the can testify that he has helped sister and Olympian Kaina wider peninsula alike, who save many lives, including Martinez, for giving him embrace his creative spirit Some of the students he mine. support and encouragement and message for positive coached such as Zadel and his whole life. He shows change. His fan following Jahmal are now assisting Kirwin has big dreams for much gratitude for his Pasalso extends to other parts him in teaching football to Seine Bight. He wants to tor, Jim Menses, for his spiriof Belize, and he says he the younger kids and he is build a restaurant that serves tual guidance and mentoring. would love to reach out to an thankful to have them follow cultural food and provides He would also like to thank international audience. in his footsteps. Jose Maria, employment for single par- Shaylene Todd, of Itz'ana

"

By ALINE HABIB

Kirwin has big dreams for Seine Bight.

He wants to build a restaurant that serves cultural food promoting Belize's cuisine and provides employment for single parents of the village; he would love to open a salon for girls to offer hair-braiding and a barber shop for the boys. He thinks acquiring boats and training some tour guides would help increase the tourism in the village and help it prosper.

In the future, he is aspiring to be part of the Seine Bight Village Council to participate in decisionmaking and seek the financial support to carry out his much-needed initiatives.

"

See KIRWIN on page 11

The Placencia Breeze

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Purple Space Monkey Jake Obit.

Continued from page 7

quickly stepped down choosing to help in the background instead. He continued to contribute to PHS in many ways over the years. Some of the first pet clinics were held in the downstairs room of Mike McDougall’s house (later the police station), which was located next to the restaurant where Jake lived.

Jake regularly provided facilities for PHS meetings.

He emceed our first big fund raiser at Serenity Hotel (now under renovation). The auction raised BZ$10,000 and funded our fledgling organization for some time. In fact, the first clinic after Hurricane Iris was held under the damaged Purple Space thatch. Jake was also a big supporter of the Placencia

football (soccer) team. He helped provide equipment and unbeknownst to most, he paid Belize Electricity Limited to keep the lights going on the football field at night for many years. Additionally, the Purple Space Monkey provided at least one banquet for the team at his expense.

those needing personal support. He helped with medical expenses. He fed those in need out the back door of the Monkey. He gifted our sailboat (damaged by Iris) to a young man helping to launch his fishing career.

He even provided a roof for Shakey when he needed it and in return Shakey served Jake was always willing to as his watch man. help further the education of Placenica youth. He pro- I’m sure there are many vided after-school internet stories that others can tell free of charge for students about Jake, not all so kind, as at a time when very few had he didn’t suffer fools gladly access. He funded students and was known to unceremoin pursuit of higher education, and he also supported the Iris Foundation, which was established to rebuild and repair schools in Placencia, Monkey River and Bladen affected by the 2001 Hurricane.

August 2018

niously direct patrons to the door of the restaurant if they displeased him.

I do know that my life is richer for having shared it with Jake over almost 20 years. I will miss my dearest friend, and my life is forever changed. RIP Jake. ▪ Marilyn Beckstead called Jake family. The friends lived together for a combined 20 years in Belize, Mexico and Canada where Jake passed in Ottawa. You can reach Marilyn at nskry@yahoo.com.

The Purple Space Monkey served as a community gathering place for various events hosting a reception for the Governor General of Belize, a grand Christmas party for local children, Jake Roberts presents a token of thanks to his close friend Marilyn IrisFoundation fundraisers, Beckstead for her work as director of the Iris Foundation, which was PHS meetings and more. Staff and friends attend a farewell dinner for Jake at the rebuilt Purple established to support rebuilding efforts after the 2001 hurricane devJake also quietly assisted Space Monkey in 2007 before he left for a new chapter of his life in astated southern Belize. Beckstead later became his business partner.

The original Purple Space Monkey lies in complete ashes after a 2006 fire decimated the thatched roof internet cafe, as well neighboring shops and apartments.

Below: The final chapter of the Purple Space Monkey of 2012-2014 under the ownership of Nick Symons and kitchen management of Richard LaBonte of Rick's Cafe saw the business develop a reputation as one of the best restaurants on the Placencia Peninsula.

Above: Zinc roofing takes the place of thatch in the rebuilt Purple Space Monkey after the 2006 fire. The business continued under new ownership until it closed for good in 2014 when the property was sold and the restaurant was replaced with a Coldwell Banker real estate office.

Mexico. (Photo: MARILYN BECKSTEAD)

Page 11

From the

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

Eating in Seine Bight

By LYRA SPANG, PhD Owner, anthropologist and tour guide Taste Belize Tours tastebelize@gmail.com

A

Hudut combines coconut and fish along with plantains to make a perfectly balanced and hearty meal. Coconut milk is seasoned with garlic and herbs and topped with a whole fish, fried to crispy perfection. Cooked green and ripe plantains are pounded together and formed into a ball of hudut that serves as both the starchy accompaniment and eating utensil for this delectable bowl of food, which is typically served with hot pepper to taste. The diner breaks off pieces of the glutinous plantain and dips it in the coconut milk broth, using the plantain to pick slivers of tender meat from the fried fish. Pop this into your mouth as one delicious bite of rich coconut, crispy tender fish and slightly sweet plantain. Or, resort to a big spoon if you must, but either way, take your time!

Hudut is a rich and filling meal that should not be rushed.

s a tourism destination, Placencia Peninsula is blessed with a much larger number of restaurants, bars and cool spots than one would expect in this lightly populated strip of sand; however, many of our guests and residents ignore the food available in one of the Peninsula’s original villages, Seine Bight. In celebration of Seine Bight Day observed on Friday, Au- Darasa is another famous creation gust 17, I recommend that you take that you don’t want to miss, conthe time to exsisting of a large plore what this dumpling made community has If you are looking for of finely grated to offer during green banana, fine dining and wine that three-day served with fried lists, keep driving to weekend of fish and a hearty Maya Beach [...] celebrations. helping of a delicious coconut If you are lookgravy called lasus. ing for fine dinStop by Ms. Vern’s on a Saturday ing and wine lists, keep driving to and you might find either of these Maya Beach (or grab the next flight dishes being served as a lunch to Miami), but if you want the true special. She also makes some great flavours of Belize don’t pass by the rice and beans plates. (You can also little wooden roadside stands and find home cooked rice and beans at diners where you will find local Shuga Restaurant, a new addition spots serving up some excellent to the Seine Bight dining scene, as home cooking. well as Three Sisters Fast Food on the beach side of Publics and SleepSeine Bight is a historically and ing Giant fast food on the lagoon predominantly Garifuna communi- side of the village). Don’t forget to ty and as such, delicious Garifuna visit Vern’s for breakfast as well, if food, based on fish, coconut milk, you get there early enough, some of plantain and root crops like cassa- her excellent johnny cakes, crispy va, may be found here. The most on the edges and full of coconut reliable source is Vern’s Restaurant, flavour, might still be available. Get located right on the seaward side these with beans refried in coconut of Main Street, just north of the oil and some eggs cooked to order Indian owned Publics Supermar- and you will be set for the morning! ket. Ms. Vern’s big and welcoming personality, the bright colors and If you are passing through the funky space epitomizes the best village early in the day you may of Belizean diners. Vern’s serves Garifuna dishes such as darasa and See EATING IN SEINE BIGHT hudut every Saturday. Hudut means on page 11 pounded in the Garifuna language.

Kirwin Ramirez shows off an appreciation card with the help of a student at Peninsula International Academy where he is employed as a physical education teacher.

Kirwin

amazing things he’s doing around him. He is strengthening his community and showing everyone that if we work together in unity, we can Continued from page 9 be happier, healthier and make a difference in our lives and the lives Resort, for providing him with of generations to come. He helps speakers, a keyboard, a microphone children believe in themselves, and guitar stand − equipment that has gain confidence, stay in school, allowed him to record more songs and dream big! He is a wonderful and nurture his passion for music. example of a survivor and a leader who impacts the lives of so many.

If anyone is interested in donat- Thank you Kirwin for shining your ing money or equipment for the beautiful light on us and teaching us children's activities or to other members of the Seine Bight community, please get in contact with Kirwin. He is happy to distribute the donations to the members in need. He would also like to record an album by the end of this year and would appreciate financial assistance in recording his music and Kirwin plays guitar at a Catholic mass in Seine Bight. spreading his mes- Kirwin's music, in the style of reggae and rap, aims to sages to more people. inspire listeners to make positive life choices.

Your kindness and generosity will be so appreciated and that with a little bit of faith, anything will have a big impact on Kirwin’s is possible! Even miracles.▪ growth and success, as well as the communities he serves.

Watch Kirwin's music videos for "Stop the Bully," "When Days are Dark, Friends are

It is an honour to know Kirwin, to Few" and more originals on his YouTube call him a friend, and to see all the channel. Just search for Kirwin Ramirez.

Our August contributing writer Aline Habib first moved to the Placencia Peninsula in 2006. She immediately fell in love with the people and continuously sought ways to better herself and the community. She was the owner of a successful boutique in Placencia Village popular for catering to the needs of young moms, the founder of a youth center that provided a fun learning space for children that needed an outlet outside school hours and later developed a deeply spiritual self through yoga and the vegan lifestyle. Despite Aline’s brave attempts to heal the world around her, she succumbed to her own demons. She now dedicates her time to being a full-time mom, and strengthening her mind and body while teaching others to be more compassionate with themselves. You can reach Aline at papayaboutique@gmail.com.

The Placencia Breeze

Page 12

August 2018

After helping to make library cards and assisting younger children, 10-year-old volunteer, Tridean Martinez, reads "The Ants Marching One by One." (Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

Library Opens in Seine Bight Village

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library has opened in Seine Bight Village. For now it’s a children’s library, but there are talks of creating an adult section in the small nook located on the first floor of the Seine Bight Multipurpose Building that was inaugurated by government officials just six years ago. Upstairs is a large auditorium that is often used for meetings and special events, and the library is the only active space on the first floor at the moment.

Thanks to an optimistic village council and dedicated volunteers, its outlook as a high-impact venture in the community center appears very promising.

The library had its first official opening on Monday, July 30, and children who are out of school for the summer flocked inside. Even though

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

there’s a children’s library at St. John’s Memorial Anglican Primary School in Placencia Village that opened shortly after Hurricane Iris struck in 2001, for all the Seine Bight children here on this Monday morning, it’s their first time ever being inside a place dedicated to the literary world. They eagerly browse through the stacked shelves; one child drags a kite around, and a few of the younger ones throw books on the floor and play with the foam mats. “They just need to settle down,” said Maritza, one of the adult volunteers in the room.

The scene is an exciting flurry of chaos, and some of the children aren’t too sure what they are doing just yet.

A few young ones say they can’t read, but it doesn’t stop them from browsing through the pictures. One

seven-year-old girl, Moya, picks up “My First Picture Bible,” an illustrated classic that condenses the Bible for young readers. When I asked why she picked that one, Moya, with a surprised look, replied, “It has Jesus on it.”

Choosing a book based on some feeling of familiarity seems to be the preferred selection method. Sevenyear-old Shadaveya got her first library card with a copy of “Garfield Loses His Feet” based on the popular cartoon character that she’s seen on TV. Eleven-year-old Rannette Caliz who volunteered that day checked out “Fancy Nancy,” based on a Disney Channel cartoon she follows. Nine-year-old Ibemei Martinez chose, “The Jungle Book” because he “likes the movies.”

See SEINE BIGHT LIBRARY on page 13

Nine-year-old Ibemei Martinez reads, "The Jungle Book."

(Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

Page 13 thank all those persons and organizations that assisted in making our library a success. The now dedicates much of her sky is the limit." Autime along with her hus- gustine said the Seine band to community efforts Bight Village Council in Seine Bight, and fellow is working to reopen the volunteer and Seine Bight Youth Drop-in Center native, Delvorine Mena Gar- that had opened on the cia, have been busy recruit- first floor of the building ing help and preparing the in 2014 and provides library for opening. internet access. “The equipment has become The seed for the library ini- obsolete, and we have tiative was planted in 2015 requested a grant to under Chairman Augustine's equip the room for the leadership with book dona- next school year.” tions from the U.S. Embassy, Dawn Whiley of the USA While just opening and others, and with the ad- the library has been ministrative help of Elaine a great achievement, Castillo and Jovita Palacio Wanda says her hope of Seine Bight. Finding vol- moving forward is for unteers to develop and open the space to be open the library proved a struggle, every morning during however, and with Delvorine school holidays and and Wanda’s perseverance to have a library hour the chairman is thankful to for each class at Seine see a village dream come Bight’s St. Alphonsus true. “I am very happy that Roman Catholic Primathe library is open and do- ry School located just ing reading programs for a short walk away. For our children. I also wish to

Seine Bight Library Continued from page 12

The competition of book versus TV is obvious and one many adults reading this article can probably understand as they struggle to resist the lure of their smart phones, and it will take super hero volunteers to win over these kids with the joy of reading.

Potential book worms like Ibemei, however, do signal hope. “I like to read,” he says before volunteering to bring “The Jungle Book” to life for a small audience of curious listeners around one of the plastic tables inside. Rannette and 10-year-old Tridean Martinez both admitted that if they weren’t volunteering that morning they would be at home “chilling” and watching their favourite shows. With both girls checking out books using the library cards they worked hard to prepare and laminate along with adult volunteers that morning, there is good a chance they’ll be flipping through pages during the week they're permitted to borrow.

“I want to applaud the efforts of Miss Delvorine and her team including Miss Wanda for volunteering to open the library and for working with our young people this summer,” Placencia Seine Bight Village Council Chairman Justo Augustine said. Both Wanda Stakutis, a retired American and former long- Maya Beach resident Julie Snell volunteers along with Ranette and time Placencia Rotarian who Tridean to make library cards. (Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

this to happen, volunteers are needed, and Wanda and Delvorine have committed to seek support with their daily Facebook postings on the new Seine Bight Library page. If anyone wants to help, Wanda said the library could use more shelving, cushions and fans. She said cleaning supplies, as well as more children’s books and library cards will help.

Like the Seine Bight Library page on Facebook to reach Wanda and Delvorine for guidance on volunteering.▪

Six-year-old Ty Ariola checks out his very first library book, "Animals in Danger." Borrowed books must be returned in one week.

(Photo: JOLIE POLLARD)

2018 Licensed Tour Guides of the Placencia and Monkey River Tour Guide Associations 1. Melvin Arevalo 2. Ben Bol 3. Leopold Ernest Garcia 4. Francisco Alvarado 5. Nestor Teul 6. Renato Cal 7. Daniel Cabral 8. Deshawndre Henderson 9. Genaro Chiac 10. Zane Westby 11. Mark Buller 12. Pablo Mendoza 13. Rolando Espat 14. Marvin Escobar 15. Vinicio Tuario 16. Diego Coc 17. Julian Cabral 18. Doren Leslie Sr. 19. Eric Foreman 20. Benjamin Young 21. Nick Pollard 22. Harold Neal

23. Octario Ack 24. Basilio Ical 25. Oscar Boo 26. Eliezer Munoz 27. Fredi Arias 28. Darmin Shivers 29. Kylon Garbutt 30. Elesario Shal 31. Julio Garcia 32. Maxwell Canelo 33. Allan Villanueva 34. Ylman Linares 35. Edwin Carr 36. Emelio Diaz 37. Elroy Burgess 38. Lennox Palacio 39. Florencio Shal 40. Walter Aldana 41. Willie Caal 42. Francisco Tush 43. Jes Bech 44. Lauro Trapp

45. Alfred Williams 46. Zeferino Mes 47. Gilbert Garbutt 48. Andre Williams 49. Martin Cabral 50. Vicente Pau 51. Hilario Tuch 52. Ernesto Bol 53. David Ortiz 54. Bernard Leslie Sr. 55. Peter Dacoff 56. Lyra Spang 57. Stephen Young 58. Kirk Mayen 59. Rejinaldo Ruiz Jr. 60. Emilliano Bo 61. Elton Reyes 62. Marisha Betancourt 63. Dan Santos 64. Adran Kus 65. Evaristo Muschamp 66. Percival Gorgdon

67. Avelino Franco 68. Alexander Chun 69. Ian Cuevas 70. Jason Westby 71. Ian Vernon 72. Dion Muschamp 73. Norman Leslie Jr. 74. Fedrito Villanueva 75. Kendis Hernandez 76. Rene Leslie Sr. 77. Eusebio Bonell Sr. 78. Oliver Salam 79. Melissa Cabral 80. Andres Fletes 81. Prince Gongora 82. Dwayne Young 83. Floria Sanchaz 84. Matthew Leslie 85. Jonathan Gabourel 86. Mervin Leslie Jr. 87. Shawn Young 88. Hubert Young

89. Javier Martinez 90. Miguel Herrera 91. Lincoln Garbutt 92. Hubert Neal 93. Avelardo Cuevas 94. Nazario Cal 95. Amir Neal 96. Stephen Lopez 97. Linda Garcia 98. Warren Garbutt 99. Brian Coy 100. Darryl Lozano 101. Bryan Petillo 102. Randolph Villanueva 103. Thorman Turner 104. Tadeo Chun 105. Ainsworth Leslie Sr. 106. Wayne Castellanos 107. Alrin Muschamp 108. Alrin Muschamp

Page 14

The Placencia Breeze

August 2018

Page 15 PLACENCIA CHAPTER OF THE BELIZE TOURISM INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION 2018 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 Jenria Lozano at 523-4045 or at director@placencia.com

ACCOMMODATIONS A Belizean Nirvana belizeanirvana@gmail.com; 523-3331 or 625-3301 Evan Hall Aqua Oasis dreawoody@gmail.com 623-3286 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 www.bayshore.bz 604-8910 or 600-1040 Jenny Wildman Belize Ocean Club info@belizeoceanclub.com 671-4500; Thibault Gehin www.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 Cabanas theluckyerin22@yahoo.com 523-3561 or 622-7104; Erin Ivy 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

Casa Sunsandsea info@casasunsandsea.com 972-215-7413-866-459-8235 Brian and Brenda Montgomery www.casasunandsea.com Ceiba Beach Resort & Restaurant tom@ceibabeachresort.com 651-6649; Thomas S. Hudson www.ceibabeachresort.com Chabil Mar Villas* information@chabilmarvillas. com; 523-3606 or 523-3611; Chris Rothing Champagne Island Resort info@champagneislandbz.com 615-9979; Jacqueline Lozano www.champagneislandbz.com Coconut Cottage

kwplacencia@yahoo.com; 523-3234 or 626-8425; Kay Westby Coral Cove Inn coralcoveinnbelize@gmail.com 600-9847; Gordon Keith Allen Dolce Cabana nharvalik@gmail.com 604-6214; Nicole Harvalik Finca Villa valchiac@yahoo.com 663-7777; Valeriano Chiac Green Parrot Beach House & Restaurant* greenparrot@mail.com; 533-8188 David Allardice & Leo Ramirez 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 www.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 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

Rotanda/The candegier@gmail.com 601-8021; Carmen Stowe Sailfish Resort info@sailfishbelize.com 651-9885; Mike Gargan

Placencia Villas & Golf Cart Rentals info@placenciavillas.com 615-6404 or 615-6434 Stephen Jacoby www.placenciavillas.com 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 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 Robert’s Grove Beach Resort */** info@robertsgrove.com; 523-3565 or 523-4367

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

Sea Glass Inn* brad_schofield@yahoo.com 523-3098 Brad & Christine Schofield

Barefoot Executive, Ltd. barefootexecutiveltd@gmail.com; 523-3291 Yvette Guild

Seaspray Hotel jodiejjyearwood@gmail.com 523-3148; Jodie Yearwood

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Seaview Suites placenciaseaview@gmail.com 523-3777; John & Marian Chan

Siripohn Thai Massage jenjira01@yahoo.com 620-8718 or 600-0375 Siripohn Thakham

Serenade Hotel info@serenadeplacencia.com 523-3113

Tooth Fairy Dental Clinic toothfairyclinic@gmail.com; 503-3736 or 633-0678; Dr. Dalila Vanzie-Krohn

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

Tree of Life Massage Studio smallkristine@yahoo.com; 624-5408 Kristine Small

Miller’s Landing* millersplacencia@yahoo.com Southern Shores Resort 523-3010 or 523-3011 deb@southernshoresresort.com Gary & Ann Miller 615-4182 Deborah Tinsley Miramar Apartments southernshoresresort.com info@miramarbelize.com; 523-3658; Ilsa Villanueva Suites at Three Iguanas www.miramarbelize.com Annelise Hagan Naia Resort & Spa hr@naiaresortandspa.com 523-4600; Stewart Krohn

AUTO RENTALS

633-6599 annelisehagan@hotmail.com

NON-PROFITS Placencia Humane Society 523-3185 or 604-8676 David Kafka, president Rotary Club of Placencia 622-7103 Sandi Johnson, president

Peninsula Volunteer Fire Sunset Pointe Condos Department ewinche713@aol.com; 664-4740; 626-0667 Office Manager, Francisco Kathy Anglin Turtle Inn */** frontdesk@turtleinn.com; 523-3244; Martin Krediet

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Tradewinds Hotel trdewndpla@btl.net; 523-3122; Janice Leslie

Amik Kil Ha achild17@gmail.com 664-1672 or +(604) 879-0543 Amanda Harris friendlywatersbelize@gmail.com

Vacasa Belize Ltd. (formally Swan Villas) info@swanvillasbelize.org 621-1393 Rodolfo Saenz De Ugante

Belize Sotheby's International Realty info@belizesir.com 523-3309 Kirsin Fisher

Villas at Cocoplum Rental/The booking@thevillasatcocoplumrental.com www.thevillasatcocoplumrental. com; 607-7270; Herbert Kollman

Boris Mannsfeld & Associates info@RealEstatePlacencia.com; 523-3309 Boris Mannsfeld

White House in Placencia/ The info@whitehouseplacencia.com 1-732-829-4042 Kirsten & Per Kristensen White Sand Villa eagleray33@gmail.com; 661-9516 or 602-9315; Tricia Hernandez Wooden Mongoose Resort woodenmongoose@gmail.com 807-708-5869 Jim Bailey & Ellen Yeast www.woodenmongoose.com

CPC Real Estate Solution info@belizeproperty.com; 672-9000 Dan Dunbar & Michael Young Re/Max 1st Choice david@1stchoicebelize.com 631-9622 or 523-3666 David Kafka Please note that some members in our Accommodations listing offer additional services:

*Restaurant **Tour Operator ***Property Rentals

Page 16

The Placencia Breeze

August 2018

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Page 18

The Placencia Breeze RESTAURANTS, BARS CAFÉS & ENTERTAINMENT

Above Grounds Coffee keithgmorrison@gmail.com 634-3212 Keith Morrison Barefoot Bar barefootbarbz@gmail.com 523-3515 Cassie & Brice Dial Brewed Awakenings brewedawakeningsbelize@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 De’Tatch Seafood Grill & Bar jodiejjyearwood@gmail.com, 503-3385 or 523-4035, Jodie Yearwood Dolce Vita/ La ladolcevitaplacencia.com@hotmail.com 678-1089 or 523-3115 Simone De Angelis Friends Near the Pier robbcarson.king@gmail.com 667-4805 Robb Carson 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 info@mangosbelize.com 610-2494 or 651-6649 chunapolonio@yahoo.com tom@ceibabeachresort.com Pickled Parrot adrianalynn37@gmail.com; 636-7068; Lynn and Eugene Upham Rumfish y Vino rumfish@btl.net 523-3293 or 666-6934 Pamela & John Solomon The Shak Beach Cafe magsshak@hotmail.com 622-1686 or 523-3252 Magda Morales

TOURS 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

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

SCHOOLS (PIA) Peninsula International Academy peninsulaacademy.org 601-3523 Selena Lucas 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 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 lolasartgallery@yahoo.com 523-3342/601-1913

Mermaid Charms jenari_13@yahoo.com 604-1906 or 503-3206 Tipsy Tuna Seaside & Sports Bar Jeanna Casey tipsytuna@outlook.com 523-3089 MnM Hardware Placencia Salva & Gillian Zabaneh duncker@btl.net 523-3517 or 523-3537 Dora Duncker

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

SHOPPING

NSAA Bath and Body Tranquilo Restaurant & Bar nsaa.bathbody@gmail.com 663-4276 Over the Water Omitade Adediran avi@marvin.co.il (Israel#) +972-508-810-891 One World Gift Shop Avi Rotem oneworldplacencia@yahoo.com 620-9975 or 523-3103 Tuttifrutti Ice Cream Parlor Claudia Hardegger tizy.lory@virgilio.it 620-9916; Tiziana Del Col Pyramid House Wine & Etc. info@pyramidhousewine.com Wendy's Creole Restaurant 636-5745 523-3335 Fred Hoffman, III Wendy Lemus

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.

August 2018

Allen, Ken & Elizabeth kenallen72@comcast.net 629-5331 Beeman, Dan dbeeman@gmail.com 818-983-5700

Mertens, Wini Palacio, Arreini Morgan arreinipal@seabelize.org 670-2924 Pelayo, Aretha A. arethapelayo@gmail.com 622-7557

Christensen, Steve gringo@btl.net 610-1399

Smith, Stan & Mary stanmary@btl.net 523-4306

Cohen, Howard & Karen howard.cohen@sunnybrook.ca; 622-6695

Van Deurzen, John vandeurzen.bz@gmail.com; 662-0020

Coston, Debbie debcoston@yahoo.com; 624-6483

Westby, Brandon brandonwestby@tropicair.com 631-3553

Gabor, Deborah gringainbelize@gmail.com 628-7004

Wildman, Tanya tanyagster@gmail.com 608-1360

Hess, Christina 523-3344

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

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

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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Wendy's Fire: An Inspirational True Story

By SHAYLENE TODD

T

his is the story of a Guatemalan girl, named Wendy, who crossed the Mopan River with her brother when she was only 12 years old. She was scared and felt responsible for her younger sibling, as the heavy rains of wet season flooded their little dory and brought them to Benque Viejo Del Carmen Town in the Cayo district. Holding tight to the promise of an improved quality of life with better wages and more

possibilities, her parents were waiting for them in Belize along with her five sisters.

Contributing Feature Writer, Shaylene Todd works as Sales Manager for Itz'ana Resort & Residences in Placencia.

She can often be seen running the road or enjoying a beach day with friends. Reach her at shaylenetodd@gmail.com.

In the country illegally and unable to speak English, she made a pittance working at a banana farm in south Stann Creek. She worked inside the packing plant while her boyfriend, Manuel, worked outside in the fields. The two

were married when Wendy was 17 years old and three months later, she was pregnant. Her grandmother had always told her that in a successful relationship, “one is fire and one is water” and as her story unfolds, you’ll see, there is no doubt which of the two roles she plays.

A godsend came their way when the couple was offered a position to run a vacation home in Placencia for a combined salary along with room and board. A year later, Wendy felt that she and Manuel were worth more than they were being

paid although their employer could not offer them additional wages.

They left the job and returned to the banana farm working terrible hours and for very little pay, and this time, with a young baby in their care.

They soon relocated to Placencia where Wendy worked in housekeeping and Manuel in construction. They rented their

first home; albeit, a very tiny one, for BZ$90 a month. Her second child, a son, was born and with the help of kids and work, her English improved little by little. She moved on to work as a cashier at the former Olga’s grocery (now Nang Kee) for BZ$4 an hour. She cleaned and packed shelves for four years and eventually, once again, she found herself feeling she was worth more than she was getting in return. She knew deep down that she deserved a better quality of life than her job was providing her.

With her daughter riding her peddle bike alongside her own, she began knocking on doors in search of a new opportunity. Her first stop was the old Turtle Inn. Her second stop, the former Kitty’s Place (now Los Porticos). She made it as far as the former Rum Point where she met a chef named Miles, who unbeknownst to her at that time would help change the course of her life. He told her to show up to work at 6 a.m. on Monday to work with him in the kitchen.

She began by washing his dishes and before long moved up to prep cook when he insisted she try waitressing. Wendy was See WENDY'S FIRE on page 21

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August 2018

Wendy's Fire Continued from page 19

unsure of herself, but he felt her kind personality and hard ethic would make her perfect for the role. Her English wasn’t 100 percent, and she’d never been in “front of house” before, but the position offered tips in addition to her hourly wage, so she couldn’t refuse. It wasn’t long before waitressing transitioned into supervision and her salary was BZ$6 an hour in addition to the tips she earned. Making more than she ever had before and learning the ins and out of a restaurant, life was good.

As with all stories coming from Placencia, this one takes a turn in 2001 when Hurricane Iris hit. Rum Point Inn was destroyed, her job was reduced to cooking for staff who stayed to repair and clean up the damage. Daily, she prepared scrambled eggs and beans along with what would eventually become her renowned fry jacks for the workers. Without service charge or tips, her salary was a fraction of what it had been and though she stayed for awhile, she knew she wasn’t making enough. Chef Miles, who had always believed in her passed away suddenly at this point and his words that she could one day open her own business rang in her ears. The fire inside her burned and she knew she was ready for more.

With the encouragement from her friends, Wendy did something she hadn’t foreseen. She rented a space next to Olga’s grocery (which now houses a thrift shop), and decided to start her own restaurant. The bank wouldn’t lend her any money, as she had no collateral and no experience

running her own business, but she was determined. There were tables and chairs already there; she started with one stove and one refrigerator, and she found two ladies who had moved to Placencia from Honduras to work with her in the kitchen: Alicia and Naty.

In September of 2002, Wendy’s Creole and Spanish Cuisine was born. Manuel, ever flowing with his wife’s momentum, would work construction by day and would peel and cut potatoes for her at night.

They served Latin food such as burritos, salbutes and tacos, but their best seller was fried chicken. From 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, she and her small team worked to get the restaurant off its feet, and it got better and grew day by day.

Wendy’s third child and second daughter was born in 2004. While pregnant, she hired more kitchen help: Blanca and Sonia. She trained everyone to cook like Miles had taught her and was determined to ensure everyone was paid fairly for their work. After six successful years of business, Wendy’s friend, Ruth, mentioned a plot of land that knew was up for sale. Although Wendy was afraid, she was brave once again. She returned to the same bank, who six years before had refused her, and now with a successful business behind her, she received a loan that would cover the land, construction and to prepay 10 months in their current location!

Eating in Seine Bight Continued from page 19

also find freshly baked johnny cakes and tasty meat pies for sale at a wooden stand on the lagoon side of the Placencia Road. Consider this your Seine Bight drive through if you are in a hurry and need some good eats for the road. There are also several spots selling Belizean fast food to go (corn masa based panades, tacos, garnaches as well as burritos and other tasty treats) along the main street. Finger Food Delights also offers fast food including wings and burgers as well as Garifuna lunch specials like hudut. Trinell’s Catering Service, run by the executive chef of Naia Resort, also serves up tasty food by order (contact her at 615-8794). If it’s evening time, you will see ladies with big Tupperware containers sitting in front of Me N Yu Chinese grocery on the lagoon side of the main street. Make sure to stop because they are selling freshly baked Creole Bread (coconut bread) and bun (slightly sweet cinnamon bread) that you don’t want to miss! Nothing makes

Page 21 better toast (or go for the gold and make coconut French toast) for your Sunday brunch.

And if you want gluten free, this Seine Bight Chinese-owned shop is one of the few places on the Placencia Peninsula where you can buy the flat cracker like cassava bread. This iconic food was carried like a ship’s biscuit across the Caribbean from island to island by the seafaring Garifuna. While you are exploring the village make sure to stop by Lola’s Art Gallery on the lagoon side of the community (look for her signs) behind the north edge of the football field to see some unique painting.

And if eating is not enough and you want to get hands on with Garifuna food, you can even participate in a beach side cooking class with Ubafu Drum School (to book contact Taste Belize Tours).

I hope that this little introduction to the food of Seine Bight will encourage you to make a stop in this community. Your taste buds will thank you. And please remember when you are driving through to do so slowly and with consideration for the village! ▪ Lyra Spang is owner/guide of Taste Belize Tours, a unique cultural & culinary tour company. She writes about food whenever she can.

Visit www.tastebelize.com

Wendy's hard work shows at the annual Placencia Lobsterfest where she and her team work tirelessly throughout the weekend. On June 30, 2008, she took home the award for Best Dish, just two days before the grand opening of today's Wendy's built by Manuel himself. In fact, on their 10-year anniversary, they won the Best Dish award again at the 2018 Lobsterfest.

See WENDY'S FIRE on page 25

Naty and Sonia, both Honduran, began working with Wendy at her restaurant soon after she opened. Having experienced the plight of being a migrant worker in Belize, an empathetic Wendy has committed to treating her staff fairly. (Photo: SHAYLENE TODD)

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August 2018

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, North of Airstrip 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 Laru Beya Resort: Paradise has an address... Luxurious beachfront 523-3179/503-3479 Website:www.belize123.com accommodation with a top-rated restaurant on site. All bedrooms Ranguana Lodge: Five private ocean view cabins located right on the beach have A/C, ceiling fans, fridges, coffee & tea making facilities. Suites (1 in the heart of Placencia Village: We have 3 private air-conditioned beach to 3 bedrooms) have fully fitted kitchens. Ocean-facing infinity pool. cabins each w/ 2 Double beds, fans, large refrigerator, coffee makers, private Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort. Free use of Hobi-cat, sea kayaks and bath w/ hot/cold shower, private balcony w/ a hammock. We also have two bicycles. Miniature golf course located on the landscaped grounds. other cabins with full kitchens, 2 double beds, fans, private bath with hot & Daily tours, snorkeling & diving trips and other excursions arranged. cold shower & tub, private balcony with a hammock. Beach Palapas, beach www.larubeya.com - info@larubeya.com - 523-3473 chairs. Tropic Air agent, Gift shop. Phone/fax at 011-501-523-3112, E-mail: Ranguana@btl.net website: www.ranguanabelize.com SailFish Resort: 6 modern Suites with A/C, TV, Wi-Fi and private baths. 8 Private rooms and 16 Bunks. Pool with swim-up Bar. Starting at $20 US + tax / night. Book online @ www.SailFishBelize.com or 651-9885 Tradewinds: Overlooking the Caribbean Sea & the Mountains of Belize! 9 Cabanas w/ private bath, hot/cold, 2 double beds, fans, coffee maker (coffee provided), refrigerator & veranda w/ hammock.

523-3122 - trdewndpla@btl.net

CHEERS

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

Internet. 523-3205 or plaofficesupply@gmail.com

Barefoot Bar: Open every day 11 am to midnight. Located on the beach. Muzamanzie Photography: Contact us for wedding photographs, Live Music Wed, Fri & Sat at 5 pm & Sun at 1 pm. Happy Hour 5 -6 pm. portraits, web & brochure images. 523-3563 or 603-5143 Largest drink menu around. Creative lunch & dinner specials. Known for muzamanzie@yahoo.com 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.

SHOPPING

Goss Chocolate: Goss Chocolate and cocoa powder made and sold only in Belize. 100% organically grown Belizean cacao, Belizean cane sugar, whole vanilla bean. Sold in grocery stores, gift shops, hotels and restaurants on the Peninsula and throughout Belize. Sorry, no factory tours! 523-3544, www.Goss-Chocolate.com, BTL Yellow Pages, Facebook. Winner World Chocolate Awards for Goss White with Vanilla Bean.

Placencia Pharmacy: Prescriptions, OTC meds & vitamins as well as 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 Wallen’s Market: Hardware and houseware as well as wines, liquors, & select wholesale items. Located just south of BTL office. Serving the peninsula for over 30 years! P. 503-3316; Office: 523-3128. wallensmarket@yahoo.com.

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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.

The Shak 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 7 to 6. Closed on Tuesday. Call us at 523-3252.

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

North of Airstrip Laru Beya Restaurant & Bar: International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. Experience delicious meals, fabulous cocktails and fantastic service combined with spectacular ocean views. Breakfast served from 7 to 11 am.

Lunch served from 12 to 2 pm. Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm. Dinner served from 6 to 9 pm. For reservations call 523-3476.

Splash Dive Center: Selected Tour Operator of the Year by the Belize Tourism Board. Fully equipped scuba retail store and 5 Star PADI Dive Center. Our 5 dive boats visit several dive and snorkel destinations daily.

We teach scuba diving from beginner to pro level. Our air conditioned vans and licensed guides will take you to Maya sites, Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve, ziplining, cave or river tubing, or the Monkey River jungle. Call 523-3080/3058 or e-mail Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com. See www. splashbelize.com for more info.

TOUR PROVIDERS

REAL ESTATE

Trip N Travel: Inland Jungle Tours – Monkey River Magic. 660-7189 lgodfrey@btl.net. Located on Main Street & Bruk Pat in Placencia Office Belize Sotheby’s International Realty: Our firm is a full service real estate Supply. company offering real estate sales, vacation rentals, as well as property management. The country of Belize has many great opportunities and offers a very beautiful landscape both on the islands and on the mainland.

Belize also offers many investment benefits. Our team of Belize experts will be happy to assist you in enhancing your Belize experience. 523-3309 info@ belizesir.com 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 The Placencia Peninsula Guide features paid listings. Contact our office at 523-4045 or accounts@placencia.com for pricing information.

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August 2018

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Wendy's Fire Continued from page 21

There are several morals to Wendy’s tale. You’ll see that she was never willing to settle for less than she was fairly due. Armed with an intrinsic belief in her own value and a bravery that surmounted her fear, Wendy stood up for herself and took risks time and time again. Although she’s the boss now, Wendy hasn’t forgotten what it’s like to work for someone else. She treats her staff like family, giving credit where credit is due to Alicia, Naty, Blanca and Originally from Guatemala, Wendy incorporates Latin American flaSonia who all still work for vours in her menu, as well as traditional Creole cuisine, which she learned under the tutelage of the chef who gave her a life-changing her to this day.

Blanca the head cook, prepares lettuce in the kitchen at Wendy's opportunity when job seeking in Placencia. (Photo: SHAYLENE TODD)

Through perseverance, hard work and fiery determination, Wendy’s Creole Restaurant & Bar (formerly Wendy's Creole and Spanish Cuisine) is a true staple in the Placencia landscape.

It’s a place where locals can get a different bowl of soup everyday of the week, barbecue on Sundays and a different dinner special every night. It’s where vis-

itors to Belize can get an authentic taste of the Latin American migrant’s influences on the country’s cuisine and even Creole flavors honoring the Peninsula’s

Restaurant. Blanca has worked with Wendy since 2004.

cultural heritage. At Wendy’s, local school children can purchase lunch with a glass of juice for just BZ$5.

It’s where groups gather and events are catered and

where Wendy will be when you’re ready for fry jacks with homemade papaya jam or a piece of fried chicken.▪ Visit wendyscuisine.bz for more info!

The Placencia Breeze

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August 2018

Rotary Updates: Rob Cook Named New Rotary Club of Placencia President; Longtime Rotarian Harold Wallen Awarded Paul Harris Fellowship

By JEFF SMITH Public Relations Officer Rotary Club of Placencia jjeffwhite@gmail.com

While summer brings a bit of a slow down in Placencia, the Rotary Club is still keeping active.

July started with the “handing of the gavel” from outgoing president Ron Fell to incoming president Rob Cook. The dinner was held at Dawn’s Grill in Placencia Village and as always, New Rotary Club of Placencia President Rob Cook receives gavel from the food and drinks were outgoing president, Ron Fell (Photo: JEFF WHITE) excellent! Also, as part of the evening’s "feastivities," Harold Wallen was awarded the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship. Harold was pleasantly surprised by the presentation and expressed his appreciation for the honThe Rotary Club of Placencia has been distributing emergency contact our. refrigerator magnets to community members of the Peninsula. Haven't The 2018 - 2019 executive board of the Rotary Club of Placencia was also introHarold Wallen presented Paul Harris Fellowship by Ron Fell and Sandi duced and consists of: Rob Cook, President and Projects Ron Fell, Past President and Membership Harold Wallen, President elect Margaret Smyth, Secretary Diana Fell, Treasurer Sandi Johnson, Administration Gail Smith, Rotary Foundation Director Jeff White, Public Relations July also saw the arrival of the much anticipated Emergency Contact fridge magnets. The magnet is certainly a handy tool to keep important numbers close by. These are currently being distributed throughout Placencia, Seine Bight and Maya Beach

by Rotarians. If you do not have one, please be sure to ask one of us!

received yours yet? Contact a Placencia Rotarian today!

Johnson. Below: 2018-2019 Rotary Club of Placencia executive: (back row) Rob Cook, Harold Wallen, Jeff White, (front row) Margaret Cook, Sandi Johnson, Diana Fell and Ron Fell. (Photo: ANNE WHITE)

The 11 members of the Rotary Club of Placencia that attended had an excellent time connecting with other Rotarians from Belize. As an added bonus, we were the only club to have three new members inducted by Mr. Rassin himself. These members were Marsha Peterson, For the first time in 56 years, Anne White and myself. It the president of Rotary In- was a very rare honour and ternational made a visit to privilege to have him do this.

Belize. Mr. Barry Rassin and his spouse Mrs. Esther The annual scholarship Rassin had an extremely awards that the Rotary Club busy and enjoyable visit. A of Placencia (with the genergala was held in Belize City ous support from the End of and was well attended by all the World Marathon) ended 10 Rotary clubs of Belize. on another successful note.

Rotary Club of Placencia members, left to right, Bob Cook, Jeff White, Anne White and Marsha Peterson inducted by Rotary International president Barry Rassin and Past Rotary District 4250 Governor Rene Villanueva. Rassin's visit marked the first time in 56 years that a Rotary International president met with club members in Belize.

(Photo: SANDI JOHNSON)

A final tally will be updated later this summer.

July ended with the second Blood Drive of 2018. While all donations are truly appreciated, the Gift of Life is definitely one of those where there is no such thing as “too much”. Blood Drives are held quarterly and we will let everyone know when the next one is!

The Rotary Club of Placencia meets each Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Pickled Parrot. Please stop by and say hello.▪

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Pet Clinic Dates & PHS Event Calendar 17 August (Saturday): PHS VET CLINIC with Dr. Edwardo Tesecum providing spays/neuters/surgeries, exams, shots, and all other vet services. In the PHS building, on the Lagoon, across from Los Porticos. Please call 6048676 to schedule all surgeries. Thank you for paying your pet's vet bill with BZ, U.S. dollars and checks.

11 November (Sunday): It's the first ever MAD HATTER TEA PARTY, from 4 to 7 pm at Turtle Inn. Ladies, get out your big old fancy hats and bid on some of the most exciting trips, excursions, items, services you could ever lay your eyes on! More details coming up!

1 December (Saturday): It's the first ever ROCKIN' 'ROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE fundraiser at Laru Beya Resort, from 4 to 7 pm. We are asking you all (individuals, schools, churches, businesses) to create Christmas trees to donate to PHS, and we will auction them off to raise money for our pets. Sounds like a fun way to kick off the holidays!

Stay current with all things PHS by liking us on Facebook or on our website: www.placenciahumanesociety. org. Call us at 6048676 to speak to a real live person, or email us at info@ placenciahumanesociety.org

February 2019: Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival: TBA Lobster Season Closes: Feb. 15 March 2019: Flaming Heart Ball Fire Department Fundraiser Maya Day: TBA La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge (Cayo): TBA National Heroes and Benefactors Holiday: March 12

PHS Volunteer Darcy Uclez shows a pup some love at the July pet clinic.

4 LANES

Real Ten Pin Bowling Air-conditioning & Free WIFI

Open 2pm - until Open Every Day On the Main Road Maya Beach

Festival Calendar & National Public & Bank Holidays

Awesome Pizza Nachos, Burgers & More Dine In or Take Out Call to order 601-4434 Fun Covered Party Deck Full Bar & Family Fun BOOK YOUR PARTY HERE!

629-3145

April 2019: Holy Thursday: April 18 Good Friday: April 19 Holy Saturday: April 20

April 2019: Easter Sunday: April 21 May: 2019 Labour Day: May 1 Sovereign's/ Commonwealth Day Holiday: May 24 June 2019: Battle Cancer Walk TBA Placencia Lobsterfest: TBA Rotary Duck Race at Lobsterfest Conch Season Closes (date dependent on quota requirements)

September 2018: Placencia Yamaha Marelco Saltwater Fishing Tournament: Sept 8 & 9 St. George’s Caye Day Holiday: Sept 10 Flag Raising Ceremony and Party: Sept 9 Belize Independence Day Holiday: Sept 21 Placencia Carnival Parade: Sept 21 October 2018 Conch Season Opens: Oct. 1 Pan-American Day Holiday: Oct 15 Belize Birding Festival: Oct 25-28 November 2018 Garifuna Settlement Day Holiday: Nov 19 December 2018 End of the World Marathon: Dec 9 Mistletoe Ball: Dec 15 Placencia Christmas Boat Parade: TBA Christmas Eve Christmas Parade: TBA Christmas Day Holiday: Dec 25 Boxing Day Holiday: Dec 26

The Placencia Breeze

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August 2018

Next Chance to Round Up Predatory Lionfish Coming in September! on our Fragments of Hope facebook page with your theories, or call or text Harry fohoutreach@gmail.com Neal at 635-9262, especially if you want to join us in the Fragments of Hope held its next planned Round Up on first Lionfish Roundup here Friday, September 7, 2018. in Placencia on June 22, 2018, where participating Many thanks to Hatchboats ventured out to pre- et Caye/Wild Orchid, the planned destinations in a Placencia Village Councooperative hunt to eradicate cil, Placencia Tour Guide Association and Southern the invasive species.

Environmental Association, After a full day at sea, each for providing support. We boat returned to have their also extend our gratitude to catch counted and weighed. all on-board volunteers (capA total of 90 lionfish were tains, divers), lionfish cleaners and community members caught. for their participation. We A successful start to what we are thrilled to announce that hope will become regularly all our same partners and scheduled culling events. If sponsors are committed to you are thinking to yourself, support the next round up in "That seems like a small September.

By MONIQUE VERNON Outreach Officer Fragments of Hope (FoH)

amount of lionfish," we think Consider joining us! so, too! We have some thoughts on why that catch was low, but we would love Fragments of Hope conto hear yours! Message us tinues to work with coastal community members to im-

plement and support seascape protection and community outreach. If you love the work we do and would like to donate, please visit our website at fragmentsofhope.org.â–Ş

Monique Vernon is a new member of the FoH team. A native of Placencia Village, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management from the University of Belize (2016).

She carries extensive experience with youth and schools and worked with FoH in 2017 implementing the Sandwatch program. FoH is dedicated to employing local coastal community members.Reach Monique Vernon at fohoutreach@gmail.com.

Men clean the lionfish after the Lobsterfest Round Up event in June.

Researcher 2 captained by Matthew "Tamba" Nicholas caught five lionfish weighing 2.5 pounds. Courageous 2 captained by Alex Small caught 31 lionfish weighing 17 pounds and Ambitious captained by Shaun Young speared 54 lionfish weighing a total of 29 pounds. Can you top that? Join the September Round Up! (Photo: SARAH ALY)

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The Placencia Breeze

Transportation Information De Express Boat - 626-8835 - Tickets available at Barefoot Beach Bar

& Placencia Tourism Center Office • Departs Friday’s: From Placencia Municipal Pier - 9:00 a.m.

Arrives Big Creek 10 a.m. Departs - 11:00 a.m. Arrives Puerto Cortez, Honduras, 2 p.m. at Laguna.

• Returns Monday’s: Departs Puerto Cortez, Honduras 11:30 a.m. Arrives Big Creek 12 noon. Departs - 1:30 p.m.

Arrives Placencia 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

August 2018

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

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

• Animal Medical Centre (Belize City) 223-3781, 223-0251

3.15 pm

4.00 pm

6.15 pm

7.45 pm

9.45 pm

• Doctor Lopez: 670-5363

• 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.

• 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

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.

Peninsula Happenings! Weh di goh aan?!

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Pickled Parrot

ART BAR: Every 3rd Monday at 3PM. Come empty handed and walk away with a piece of art! 636-7068

SailFish Resort

Daily drink specials, open noon – sundown. 18 years and older.

Tipsy Tuna

Martini Monday! We have martini specials all day! Live low key music with Karl & Gram, 6-10 p.m. Pizza Night!

Turtle Inn

Indonesian Rijsttafel Dinner 523-3244

Rotary Club of Placencia

Meeting at 12:30pm 622-7103 at Pickled Parrot

SailFish Resort

Daily drink specials, open noon – sundown. 18 years and older.

Barefoot Bar

TRAVELLERS TUESDAY – Select Travellers Rum Just $3 from 5 to Close!!! 523-3515

Tipsy Tuna

Mojito Tuesday! We have mojito specials all day!

Barefoot Bar

FUN & FUNKY Jam Session Starts 5pm! Visiting musicians welcome! 523-3515

Mariposa Restaurant

Free Yahtzee dice game starts 3 pm 523-4474

Rotary Club of Placencia

senior programm at the Placencia Comunity Centre 1 - 3:30 pm

Tipsy Tuna

Wings Wednesday! We have $1 Wings all day! Garifuna Drumming 7-9 p.m!

SailFish Resort

NO POOL FEE 18 & OLDER, open noon – sundown.

Barefoot Bar

DIRTY THURSDAY! 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tell a dirty joke and get the shot of the day for free! 523-3515

Pickled Parrot

TRIVIA THURSDAY! 6 p.m. Prizes and free jello shots! 636-7068

Sailfish Resort

T-SHIRTS 25% OFF 18 & OLDER, open noon – sundown.

Turtle Inn

Indonesian Rijsttafel Dinner 523-3244

Cha Chi's

CALL 523-3305

Tipsy Tuna

Tipsy Thursday! Sushi Specials all day! Karaoke with Karl & dancing DJ Swagg, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m!

Jaguar Lanes

WINGS NIGHT - OPEN EVERYDAY 2P.M. - UNTIL

Yoli’s Bar

The LOST REEFERS - Live acoustic music - 4 pm 662-4885

Barefoot Bar

FRIDAY

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Live Caribbean Music w/ Bad Boy Rudy at 5 pm! $1 Local Bitters ALL DAY LONG! "They good fi dih bak!" 523-3515

Turtle Inn

Silent Movie Night featuring Buster Keaton 523-3244

Rotary Club of Placencia

BINGO 6 pm at the Flying Pig

Mango's

Live Music 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Cha Chi's

CALL 523-3305

Tipsy Tuna

Margarita Madness! We have margarita specials all day! Free Zumba Dance Party 7-9 p.m. or Live Rock Music with The Unemployables 5-9 p.m!

Street Feet Lounge & Night Club Bringing in Belize’s Hottest DJ’s!!! Open 10 pm til 3 am!!! 523-3515 SailFish Resort Barefoot Bar

SATURDAY

Daily drink specials, open noon – sundown. 18 years and older.

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

Sailfish Resort Belize

Daily drink specials, open noon – sundown. 18 years and older.

Pickled Parrot

LIVE MUSIC! 6 p.m. by The Usual Suspects! P. 636-3089

Cha Chi's

CALL 523-3305

Tipsy Tuna

Seaside Saturday! We have daiquiri specials all day! Live music and/or DJ Swagg!

Street Feet Lounge & Night Club Bringing in Belize’s Hottest DJ’s!!! Open 10 pm til 3 am!!! 523-3515

SUNDAY

Barefoot Bar

Daytime Beach Party & BBQ w/ Live Caribbean Music w/ Tropical Vibes from 1 to 6 pm! 523-3515

Sailfish Resort Belize

Bloody Mary Special, open noon – sundown. 18 years and older.

Turtle Inn

2 for 1 Pizza 523-3244

Cha Chi's

CALL 523-3305

Tipsy Tuna

$200, 2nd place $100, 3rd place $50. Specials on L&R Rums & Hyper Vodka.

Belize Ocean Club

Sunday Pool Parties! Party DJ, great food and drinks!

J-Dee’s Restaurant & Bar

Karaoke 8 p.m. to midnight. 503-3351

Laru Beya Restaurant and Bar Turtle Inn

EVERYDAY

L&R Liquors 6x6 Beach Volleyball Tournament! $20 Registration Fee by noon. 1st place

Tipsy Tuna Mango's Barefoot Bar SailFish Resort

International Fine Dining with Belizean flair. Breakfast served from 7 to 11 am. Lunch served from 12 to 2 pm. Happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Dinner served from 6 to 9 pm. 523-3476 Happy Hour 4-6 p.m. ½ off Local Beer and Rum Happy Hours 5-7pm! $1 Wings, $2 OFF Coladas & Daiquiris, $3 Local Rum, $4 Local Beer & $4.50 Guinness. Ph: 523-3089 Happy Hour 2:00pm to 5:00pm 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. 523-3515 POOL BAR Open to the Public at noon. 18 years and older.

The Placencia Breeze

August 2018