The Toledo Howler Newspaper of the Toledo Chapter of the Tourism Industry Association

FEBRUARY 2008 YEAR 1, ISSUE 3 Andy Palacio 1960—2008 The boy from Barranco who became a national hero

The sudden death of Andy Palacio imported sounds coming over the nitely had to react to that reality.” th INSIDE THE HOWLER on January 19 shocked and sad- radio from neighboring Honduras, His reaction took the form of diving dened everyone who knew him or of Guatemala, the Caribbean and the deeper into the language and him, and there were many. Andy United States. “Music was always a rhythms of the , a unique ANDY PALACIO 1 had just completed the cultural blend of West African most successful year of and Indigenous Carib and Ara- MUSIC FROM 2 his career and achieved wak Indian language and heri- THE ROOTS international recognition tage. “It was a conscious strat- MASSEUSE 4 with his album Wátina. egy. I felt that music was an EXTRAORDI- excellent medium to preserve NAIRE Wátina, released at the the culture. I saw it as a way of beginning of 2007, be- maintaining cultural pride and THE WAY TO 5 came one of the most SAN JOSE self esteem, especially in young critically acclaimed re- people.” NEW BLUE 6 cordings of the year in CREEK TOURISM any genre. Perhaps the INITIATIVE most unanimously re- Palacio became a leading figure in a growing renaissance of TRANSPORT 7 vered world music album SCHEDULES in recent memory, young Garifuna intellectuals Wátina appeared on who were writing poetry and MAYA HOME- 8 songs in their native language. STAY NETWORK dozens of Best of the Year lists in major media He saw the emergence of an PHOTO OP: 9 outlets around the globe. upbeat, popular dance form SEND US YOUR based on Garifuna rhythms that PHOTOS In November, 2007, became known as punta rock Palacio became the first TOLEDO CACAO 9 and enthusiastically took part in FESTIVAL UP- Caribbean and Central developing the form. Andy be- DATE American artist to be gan performing his own songs designated a UNESCO and gained stature as a musi- RECENT INTER- 10 Artist for Peace. He also VIEW WITH cian and energetic Garifuna received the prestigious ANDY PALACIO artist. Andy Palacio in his home village of Barranco, November 2007, WOMEX Award in Octo- Palacio also brought his passion receiving the UNESCO award naming him as an ‘Artist For TOLEDO EVENTS 11 ber, 2007 which was co- for Garifuna culture into the pub- CALENDAR Peace’. Photo by Marta Hirons awarded to Ivan Duran, lic sector. In December 2004, MAYA DAY friend and founder of 12 part of daily life,” said Palacio, “It Palacio was appointed Cultural CELEBRATIONS Stonetree Records. In September, Ambassador and Deputy Adminis- UPDATE 2007 Palacio was conferred the was the soundtrack that we lived to.” Being musical ran in the family. trator of the National Institute of Order of Meritorious Service by the Culture and History of Belize. MAP OF PG 13 Prime Minister of Belize. Wátina Andy’s father, Reuben, used to en- tertain passengers on the bus to PG MAP OF TOLEDO 14 was also nominated for the influen- Back in Barranco in November to with his harmonica playing. tial BBC Radio 3 World Music receive the UNESCO ‘Artist for CLASSIFIED 14 Awards. Along with some of his peers, Andy Peace’ award, Andy told the audi- ADS An astonishing year by any stan- joined local bands even while in ence that his work was dedicated to

dard. Andy Palacio’s passing has high school and began developing the next generation of Belizean left a void which we hope will be his own voice, performing covers of artists. The challenge is there—who filled by other aspiring young musi- popular Caribbean and Top 40 will take it up? songs. cians for whom Andy is the ultimate Andy Palacio: national hero of Be- role model. By his own example, However, it was while working with lize, cultural icon of the Garifuna Andy Palacio has shown Belize’s a literacy project in Nicaragua in people, role model for the next gen- youth that a humble start in life 1980 and discovering that the Gari- eration. He will be missed. does not have to stop them from funa language and culture was accomplishing great things. steadily dying in that country, that a Friends and supporters are invited strong cultural awareness took hold to post messages in memory of Andy Palacio to his MySpace page Andy Vivien Palacio was born in the and Andy’s approach to music be- came more defined. “I saw what (www.myspace.com/ small coastal village of Barranco in andypalacio) .and on the Cum- Toledo on December 2, 1960. had happened to my people in Nica- ragua. The cultural erosion I saw bancha blog (http:// Palacio grew up listening to tradi- there deeply affected my outlook,” cumbanchamusic.blogspot.com/). tional Garifuna music as well as he said in late 2006, “and I defi- Read recent interview on page 10

Contact Toledo BTIA at the Tourism Information Center, BTIA’s distinctive octagonal Informa- Front St., Punta Gorda Tel. 722-2531 E-mail btia- tion Center on Front street in Punta [email protected] Chair: Bruno Kuppinger, Secretary: Yvonne Gorda. All you need to know about Villoria, Treasurer: Leonie Requena Toledo is inside

Join BTIA and display your promotional Contact The Howler Editorial Team materials in the information center. Tel. 722-2531 E-mail [email protected] Features Editor: Marta Hirons 671-7172, Advertising Man- Join BTIA and make a difference. ager: Juli Puryear, 722-2276 Production Manager: Rob Hirons 671-7172, Editorial Assistant Kimberly Williams 722-2531 2 MUSIC FROM THE ROOTS

I Wanna Wanaragua

In a brief ceremony held at Beya Suites on Friday, December, 21st 2007, the Battle of the Drums Secretariat Darius Avila donated Wanaragua costumes and masks to Subasity Wanaragua Dancers. Battle of the Drums is a Garifuna drumming competition and show that is held in Punta Gorda Town , Toledo District , Belize , in No- vember of each year. This year it was held on November 16, 2007, and was a great show, with excit- ing drumming and a professional stage which included huge video screens broadcasting the show. The competition and show fea- projects in Punta Gorda For more information regarding tures Garifuna groups from all Town . This year the proceeds the Battle of the Drums initiative across Belize and will soon in- have been used to finance three and the cultural revival projects clude groups from neighbouring projects: (1) the Re-enactment you can contact Darius Avila at Guatemala and Honduras . ceremony (Urumein) on the 19th email: [email protected] or day of November; (2) sponsored call: 501-621-0140. If you would The Battle of the Drums Competi- the Subasity Wanaragua Danc- like to use the services of the tion and Show is the brain-child ers; (3) commencing a Garifuna Subasity Wanaragua Dancers of Darius Avila, owner of Beya Drumming in Schools program at please contact Darius Avila. Suites in Punta Gorda Town . Its the St. Peter Claver Primary Don’t miss Battle of the Drums proceeds are used to invest in School. next year, November 15, at the various Garifuna cultural revival Punta Gorda Sports Auditorium.

DISCOVER! The Unique Indigenous Experience A people-to-people cultural mutuality Accommodation in elegant program. Learn about the riverside cabanas Mayan culture

Homestays in Aguacate, San Jose and Na Luum Ca Villages. Contact Yvonne at 722-2470 www.thelodgeatbigfalls.com Email: [email protected] [email protected] 3

Phone 722-0050 Fax 722-0051 Box 135, Punta Gorda [email protected] www.machacahill.com

Machaca Hill Lodge sits high up within the rainforest canopy. With an awe inspiring panorama and a view of Guatemala and Honduras in the distance, our world-class resort is where you will feed your thirst for adven- ture or relax in the privacy of 12 elegant cabanas. The resort is situated on an 11,000 acre nature reserve, and is the ideal place for walking our trails, experiencing the rainforest canopy by tram, or exploring the Rio Grande river by canoe. The Arbor Restaurant features a balanced menu of fresh, local seafood and regional cuisine with many of the herbs, vegetables and tropical fruits organically grown at Machaca Hill. All of our bread and desserts are homemade. Our bar offers a full selection of top-shelf liquors, wine and local beer.

We invite you to quench your thirst for adventure and luxury

Bring this ad for a 20% discount on lodging,. 4

JOYCE CAL, MASSEUSE EXTRAORDINAIRE

Punta Gorda is now fortunate Chetumal and Veracruz, Mexico. training for home care nursing was enough to have the services of with HelpAge Belize, and also the Joyce Cal, certified masseuse and Joyce trained in occupational ther- Red Cross, where she received her licensed home care nurse. If you apy massage in . Her certification. are having physical problems, are stressed out or just want to Using aromatherapy massage oils give yourself a relaxing treat, she makes herself, Joyce will give then Joyce is the one to call. you an excellent massage. You can get foot, hand, back and neck or As soon as you meet Joyce, you full body massage. Neck and back will begin to relax. Her huge massage is $30BZ, and full body smile, delightful laugh and posi- massage is $60BZ. Joyce will come tive outlook on life are conta- to your hotel or home to give you a gious. Originally from Belize City, massage, or you can go to her little Joyce has been living in PG for house ‘to the back’ of PG town (if about 7 years now. She loves to you can find it, that is). Nearly all travel, not only throughout Be- the hotels in PG have contact infor- lize, but to Israel, Bermuda and mation for Joyce and can arrange a points beyond. Her travels in- massage for you, or you can call clude regular visits to patients in her directly at 601-6026.

Sun Creek Lodge & IBTM Tours

5 Thatched Roof Cabanas w/Breakfast Tours operated by: US$ 50.00 + Tax

722-0112 or 600-8773 E-mail: [email protected]

Sun Creek Lodge—The Hidden Charm 5

Spotlight on Craft The Way to San Jose

As you follow the winding dirt road west- The group have developed some lovely lower price then sell 3 or 4 at the higher ward towards San Jose, you may start to and unusual basket designs, more intri- price. Marketing is the most difficult wonder whether the village exists at all. aspect of the business. The Howler is The road curls around numerous jungle cate and striking then the usual basket- happy to help by howling about it. covered hills, often sur- work seen around the district. One de- For more informa- prising in their sudden tion or to place an steepness. Entering the order with the San ‘suburbs’ of San Jose, Jose Sunshine you start to notice well Women’s Group, tended lawns and gar- call the village dens. After the wilder- phone on 702- ness of the journey, the 2972 and ask for village feels warm and Justa Cal or welcoming. Ersinia Ishim. You San Jose, population will have to leave about 780, is one of the your name and more remote villages in number and one the hinterland of Toledo of the ladies will and only ten miles from call you back. The the Guatemalan border. Toledo Informa- Electricity has not yet tion Centre on reached San Jose al- Front St in Punta though there is one vil- Gorda also carries lage telephone, powered information and a by solar energy. This is a copy of the photo Mopan Mayan commu- price list. Times of nity, one of the two Ma- Justa Cal, Cecelia Cal, Josephine Cho with daughter Marvina and Margarita Pop, some of the mem- buses to San Jose yan groups found in bers of the San Jose Sunshine Women’s Group. and info on places Toledo. to stay in the vil- sign is a checkered pattern, using light San Jose is also the home of the Sun- lage can also be obtained at the TIC. and dark jippi jappa fibers. Another in- shine Women’s Group. This cooperative Phone: 722-2531 of female craft makers got their start teresting design has dark fibered, verti- about 4 years ago with the help of the cal stripes running up and down the bas- local Peace Corp volunteer, Bree Pryor. ket and over the lid (see photo). With their relative isolation, these women decided they would be better off At the same time, the group are very working together to earn money to help careful to maintain consistent quality pay for their children’s education and and each maker uses their particular family medical expenses. talents. If, for example, a basket is Many of the women are basket weavers although some also make bead jewelry, priced BZ$10 wholesale, you can be cuxtal bags, Maya dolls and carved cala- confident that purchasing 20 of this bash. A member of the executive com- design will mean 20 of equally high mittee, Justa Cal, says their aim is to quality. make quality crafts for wholesale to Jippi jappa baskets made by members of the hotels and retail shops around the coun- The group understand the benefits of group. The Lodge at Big Falls retails San Jose bas- try. They already supply several lodges selling in quantity at a lower price; that ket work. Call 671-7172 in Cayo. is, wholesale. Its better to sell 20 at a

Where to get your copy of The Toledo Howler: The Toledo Howler will normally be distributed at the Toledo Tourism Information Center on Front Street as well as other shops, restaurants and places of business of BTIA members in Toledo (see list on Page 7). The paper can also be found at Maya Island Air and Tropic Air terminals throughout Belize plus Tropic Air and Requena’s Charters in Puerto Barrios, Guate- mala. 6 BTIA TOLEDO MEMBERS 2007

Business Name Email Phone Contact Person Beya Suites [email protected] 722-2188 Lisa Avila Blue Belize Guest House & Tours [email protected] 722-2678 Dan Castellanos & Rachel Graham Chris Crowell [email protected] 670-0557 Chris Crowell Coral House Inn [email protected] 722-2878 Rick & Darla Mallory Cuxlin Ha Time Share [email protected] 501-614-2518 Dona Lee Scafe Dem Dats Doin [email protected] 501-722-2470 Yvonne Villoria Fish & Fun Guiding Services [email protected] 671-0506 Ovel Leonardo Garbutt’s Marine Investment [email protected] 604-3548 Dennis Garbutt Hickatee Cottages [email protected] 662-4475 Ian & Kate Morton Juli Puryear [email protected] 722-2276 Juli Puryear Larry Smith [email protected] 722-2300 Larry & Carol Smith The Lodge at Big Falls [email protected] 671-7172 Marta & Rob Hirons Machaca Hill Lodge [email protected] 722-0050 Ovel Leonardo Obsession Bar & Grill [email protected] 722-0193 Carlo Wagner Requena's Charter Service [email protected] 722-2070 Julio Requena Romero’s Charter Service [email protected] 722-2625/2924 Frances Romero Scotia Bank [email protected] 722-0098/0099 Jose Chan Sun Creek Lodge [email protected] 600-8773/614-2080 Bruno & Melissa Kuppinger TIDE Tours [email protected] 722-2129 Delonie Foreman Toledo Eco-Tourism Association 722-2531 Vicente Sackul Tumul Kin Center of Learning [email protected] 608-1070 Esther Sanchez Sho

Improvements Planned for Blue Creek Tourism The Blue Creek Tourism Committee with toilets and changing facilities. There dishes. You can find her about 100 (BCTC) has recently been established to will also be new interpretative signs of yards on the left after the Welcome to manage the development of facilities for archaeological and cultural interest plus Blue Creek sign. Her own sign says visitors to the area. They will be signing a educational materials. The Institute of “Tour Guides & Restaurant”. co-management agreement with the Archaeology will provide training for The Tumul K’in Center for Learning in Institute of Archaeology and be the body guides in the identification, interpreta- Blue Creek holds a Culture Night and charged with collection of entrance fees. tion and preservation of artifacts. Cave dance every second Saturday, which is This agreement should be signed during safety training and the proper use of free and open to the public. This is a February 2008. The great opportunity for visitors to hear Institute of Archae- traditional music and see traditional ology is responsible dancing, along with the fun skits and for protection of all songs that the students also include. caves in Belize, many The school raises money by selling of which were used refreshments. by the ancient Maya and still contain im- Dates for Culture Nights up until portant artifacts. Easter Break are January 19th, Febru- ary 2nd, February 16th, and March A new fee of BZ$5 1st. All of them begin at 7pm and go per person will now until 9pm, with music and dancing be charged and this afterwards. For more information, you will be split between can contact Tumul K’in at 608-1070, the Institute of Ar- Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm. chaeology and the Blue Creek cave entrance BCTC. The BCTC are applying for funding Blue Creek Tourism Committee equipment like helmets, headlamps and from abroad, and their portion of en- Contact Details: life jackets is also planned. The Howler trance fees will help build the required will keep readers up to date on develop- Blue Creek community phone: 6032133 ‘matching funds’. So what added value ments as they happen. can visitors and tour operators expect Ask for Adriano Ack the village chairman from the Blue Creek Tourism Commit- If you would like to eat while in Blue and member of the BCTC. tee? Creek, you can stop at Miss Ofelia’s and E-mail: [email protected] order your lunch before you hike up to The BCTC is planning a visitor’s center the cave. She offers traditional Belizean 7 TRANSPORT SCHEDULES

Schedule of Flights from Punta Gorda To Belize City and from Belize City To Punta Gorda

Flights stop at Placencia & Dangriga Depart Punta Gorda Arrive In Belize City Service Provider Depart Belize City Arrive In Punta Gorda Service Provider 6:45am 7:45am Maya Island Air 8:00am 9:00am Maya Island Air

7:00am 8:10am Tropic Air 8:30am 9:30am Tropic Air

9:30am 10:30am Maya Island Air 10:00am 11:00am Maya Island Air

9:40am 10:50am Tropic Air 10:30am 11:30am Tropic Air

11:30am 12:30pm Maya Island Air 12:30pm 1:30pm Tropic Air

11:35am 12:40pm Tropic Air 2:30pm 3:30pm Tropic Air

1:35pm 2:45pm Tropic Air 2:30pm 3:50pm Maya Island Air

4:00pm 5:00pm Maya Island Air 4:30pm 5:30pm Maya Island Air

4:00pm 5:00pm Tropic Air 4:50am 6:00pm Tropic Air

Schedule of Buses leaving Punta Gorda

Departs from Punta Gorda Arrives in Belize City Service Provider Type of Service

3:00am 10:30am National Transport Regular

4:00am 10:00am James Bus Line Regular

4:30 am 9:15am National Transport Regular

5:00am 11:00am James Bus and Usher’s Bus Line Regular

6:00am 11:00am James Bus Line Express

6:00am 12:30pm James Bus Line Regular

8:00am 2:30pm James Bus Line Regular

10:00am 4:30pm James Bus line Regular

12noon 6:30pm James Bus Line Regular

1:30pm 7:30pm Usher’s Bus Line Regular

2:00pm 7:30pm James Bus Line Regular

3:00pm 8:30pm James Bus Line Regular

Boats To Puerto Barrios and Livingston, Guatemala

Service Provider Dep. Punta Gorda Arrive in Puerto Barrios Dep. Puerto Barrios Arrive in Punta Gorda

Requena’s Charter Service 9:30am 10:30am 2:00pm 3:00pm

Pichilingo 2:00pm 3:00pm 10:00am 11L00am

Marisol 4:00pm 5:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm

Boats to Livingston depart on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m.

Did you know…? The national bird of Belize is the Toucan, the national animal of Belize is the Tapir, the national flower is Our jungle lodge is nestled between river & rainforest, be- neath a towering cottonwood tree, not far from Punta the Black Orchid, and the Gorda by river or road. We offer kayaking, caving, horse- national motto, found on back riding, and waterfalls. Unique tours, from Mayan the Belizean flag, is “Sub Umbra Florero”. Translated Belizean Special: Horseback ride, lunch and swim in the river. from the Latin, it means, Please call for price at 670-0557 “in the shade I flourish.” E-mail 8

MAYA HOMESTAY NETWORK

You will be to know them a bit), yet warm and treated as ex- welcoming to outsiders. Many times tended family. I have gone into a stranger’s house As a visitor and been offered a cacao drink or you will inter- some of whatever is on the fire- act with the hearth. If there is only one chair in Maya families the house, it will be given to the visi- in the village tor. you stay in. Individuals wishing to stay in the You will share Homestay Network will be person- a room with ally matched with their host family the family, and by the village director. Groups are often sleep in given a one hour orientation before a hammock. going out to their village. Unless you You will bathe have rented a car, transportation where the will be by village bus. family and Alfredo and Yvonne are originally villagers from Oahu, Hawaii, and moved to Yvonne & Alfredo Villoria have run the home stay program since 1990 bathe; most often this is in Belize in 1980. a nearby river or creek. Your meals Since then they have lived on their will be whatever the family is eating farm, the Toledo Botanical Arbore- There are no 400-thread count that day; definitely corn tortilla at tum, formerly ‘Dem Dats Doin’. This sheets, no room keys, and definitely every meal, along with eggs or is a private tropical garden with no room service. Yet Maya Village beans and hot pepper, sometimes over a thousand species of exotic Homestay Network may be one of chicken or caldo (chicken soup) and plants and rainforest trees. One of the most unique, enriching travel maybe game meat such as Gibnut if the ‘must see’ places in Belize! experiences you will have in your the man of the family hunted the Tours of the farm are available by lifetime. previous day. You will participate in appointment by calling 722-2470 or family activities including making The Homestay Network has been by Email at [email protected] run by Yvonne and Alfredo Villoria corn tortillas, going to the milpa For more information on Maya since 1990. Participating villages farm, weaving baskets or washing Homestay Network or tours of the are Na Luum Ka, Aguacate and San clothes in the river. farm, you can stop by their office on Jose, all located in the Toledo Dis- Most Maya families live in huts Main Street in the ICB insurance trict. The Homestay Network is not thatched with cohune palm leaf. building, the Tourism Information tourism, but rather a cultural ex- Homes are usually one room and Center on Front Street, or Deja Brew change. The idea is to exchange very simple, with dirt floors. Never- Café on Front Street, upstairs from experiences; the Maya want to learn theless, they are spotlessly clean. the market. about you just as much as you want You will find most of the Maya to be

to learn about them. quiet and shy (at least until you get

Instructions: Wat’s Cookin? Chop lobster meat. Combine lobster with all other ingredi- It’s lobster season, and lobster ceviche is a delicious way to enjoy this delicacy. ents, adding juice of the limes one at a time, to taste. Let sit Please note that lobster season is from June 16-February 14. at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, stirring occasionally. Do not eat lobster out of season, so we can all continue to enjoy this treat! The acid of the lime juice ‘cooks’ the lobster. Ceviche can be kept refrigerated for about 1 week, and the flavors will Lobster Ceviche develop and improve each day. Serve with crisp tortilla Half pound lobster meat (or shrimp) chips. Also try conch ceviche. 1/2 cup carrots, chopped small 1 cup onion, chopped 2 cups tomatoes, chopped 1 - 4 habanero peppers, minced (depending on the amount of heat you want) 1 bunch cilantro, stemmed and chopped 2-3 limes, juiced Salt and pepper yum, yum…. 9

PHOTO OP

There are always magnificent sights for birders in Toledo but once in a while a GREAT birding moment comes along. On Christmas morning a group of guests from The Lodge at Big Falls were kayaking from San Miguel village down the Rio Grande back to the lodge. They were led by Steven Choco from Big Falls village and George Alford from Punta Gorda. The picture was captured by George on his trusty digital camera. The bird (Ornate Hawk-eagle; pictured right) is holding a green iguana it has just killed. The group and the eagle watched each other for some twenty minutes. Great picture, George. Congratulations! And remember, folks, don’t leave your camera at home and miss these once in a lifetime moments. If you take a digital photo which you think captures some aspect of the tourism experience in Toledo then contact the Howler team on 671-7172 and ask for Rob. We will aim to publish one photo in each quarterly issue, giving credit to the Ornate Hawk-eagle with green iguana along the Rio Grande between San Miguel and Big Falls; photographer. Photos will be printed in black & white. 25th December 2008. Courtesy of George Alford. Toledo Cacao Festival May 23-25th 2008 This year’s festival will take place during the weekend of May 23-25. Additions to the festival program this year include a spe- cial performance of the Deer Dance held at the wonderful Maya site of Lubaantun, as well as a presentation on the Maya his- tory of Toledo given by Dr Jaime Awe, the director of the Department of Archeology.

The Festival opens with a Wine & Chocolate evening, featuring local and international wines and chocolate based cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Saturday brings you the Taste of Toledo cookery and craft fair, with cookery and chocolate demonstrations and a host of cacao-related and other craft produce, Cacao for Kids children's activities, Sea Toledo marine trips, and Culture in Harmony musical performances.

Sunday's Cacao Trail takes you inland to Toledo's chocolate country to visit the cacao plantations and on to one of Toledo's beautiful natural attractions, followed by a special performance of an excerpt from the Maya Deer Dance at Lubaantun's at- mospheric plaza. Round off the weekend at the Festival Finale with music from some of Toledo's best-loved musicians, fol- lowed by a spectacular firework display over the Bay of Honduras. The committee is offering BTIA members a link to the web site for $25 http://www.toledochocolate.com/

Wan Lee Bit a Kriol Did you know…? “Da gyal ahn she ma noh set haas ataal.” You can see scarlet macaws at Red Bank village from That girl and her m other don’t sit horse at all, meaning; That around the end of December until the end of March. girl and her mother don’t get along at all. Call Geronimo Sho at Red Bank village on 509-3110 or 608-7776 to find out if they have arrived or are still “Wahn stik brok eena ih ayz” around. If you get to the village at about dawn, you can He has a stick broke in his ear, meaning; he is playing deaf to often see the birds right in the village. Otherwise, it is a warnings of others beautiful (uphill) walk of about 45 minutes. 10 ANDY PALACIO, GARIFUNA AMBASSADOR

Andy Palacio was interviewed by Juli Puryear roll down their windows and sing out, Although we spoke fairly briefly, I can see of the Howler just two weeks before his un- ‘Wátina, sitina.’ I love it.” that Andy cares very deeply for his peo- timely passing on Saturday 19 January. Palacio said he seeks to be “ … an artist ple, the Garifuna in particular, and Beliz- second, a communicator first. A eans in general. Our conversation kept I talked with Andy one evening at Cotton- teacher.” I asked him what it is that he returning to the children he wants to Tree Lodge here in Toledo. The lodge is wants to communicate. “Self esteem,” influence, and the family and village only a few miles from his hometown of he said. which influenced him. The place and Barranco, where he was headed the next It seems that Garifuna culture and lan- people of Barranco are very much a part day. Barranco is a tiny village on the Car- guage are slowly dying out in Belize and of Andy and his music. The songs on ibbean Sea, just south of Punta Gorda. other coastal communities in Central Wátina are all based on traditional Gari- Although there are only a few hundred America, and Andy wants to stop this funa rhythms, and the lyrics are in the residents, a number of them have be- from happening. Some lyrics from Garifuna language. According to the CD’s come musicians, artists and researchers producer, Ivan Duran, this is the “soulful of great renown in Belize side of Garifuna music” not and the rest of the world, the punta rock which you including artist Benjamin hear much more often in Nicolas. Belize. These are powerful, “Wátina,” the latest album beautiful songs, almost from Andy Palacio & the haunting in their deceptive Garifuna Collective, has simplicity. been recognized as one of My last question to Andy the best albums of 2007 by was, “What would you like to a growing number of inter- say to the people of Toledo?” national publications and He answered, “I am an ordi- radio charts, including Na- nary man, not extraordinary. I tional Public Radio, Global just want to be remembered Rhythms and National Geo- as the son of Cleofus and graphic online magazines. Ruth.” Andy was moved to In radio, European DJs par- tears when he spoke of his ticipating in the prestigious deceased father, and the ‘World Music Charts Europe’ fact that he never witnessed survey voted Wátina the No. 1 album of “Amnnegu,” the last song on the Wátina any of his son’s incredible success. Now the year, beating out competition from CD include, “Parents, please listen to Andy has been reunited with his ances- Angelique Kidjo, Ibrahim Ferrer, Youssou me. Teach the children our language and tors. N'Dour, and other major world music our songs; our beliefs and our dances. The Wátina CD and other fine selections figures who also released albums last The time has come for it to be pre- from Stonetree Records are available in year. served.” With the incredible worldwide Punta Gorda at Deja Brew Café, The I asked Andy what he thinks of his huge success of Watina, Andy is indeed pre- Lodge at Big Falls, Hickatee Cottages, success. “2007 has been the best year. serving Garifuna music and language, the BTIA information center, Cottontree It cannot get any better than this. Little and letting the world know just where Lodge and Coral House Inn . kids here pass me on the road, and they Belize is on the map. 11 TOLEDO EVENTS CALENDAR

DATE EVENT LOCATION

8-10 Feb Grand opening of Reef Bar and Restaurant, with Deja Brew Coffee. Free dessert with every meal. The old Titanic Bar, upstairs from the market. All day from 8.00am-9.00pm

2,16 Feb Cultural Night at Tumul Kin: Traditional Maya music and dancing, skits and songs, refreshments Tumul Kin Center of Learning, Blue Creek from 7—9pm

9-16 Feb Valentines Chocolate Week at Cottontree Lodge. Chocolate making and tasting. Cotton Tree Lodge. Call for events, reservations and times; 670-0557

14 Feb Valentines Poetry Competition and Dinner at Machaca Hill Lodge. First Prize $200! Plus lots of give- Machaca Hill Lodge, 7 p.m. aways. Dinner $25. Transportation provided if necessary, call 722-0050

1 Mar Cultural Night at Tumul Kin: Traditional Maya music and dancing, skits and songs, refreshments Tumul Kin Center of Learning, Blue Creek at 7—9pm

7 Mar Pueblo Viejo School and Village Fair: sponsored by Plenty Belize as part of their GATES program promoting Primary school in Pueblo Viejo. organic gardening and nutritious foods. Mini-workshops on food preparation, organic gardening, sanita- 9 am—noon tion, environmental and health issues will go on throughout the day. A nutritious lunch will be served.

9 Mar Baron Bliss Day go fly a kite

21– 24 Easter Weekend: TIDE Compound, Hopeville, 9 am til dark.

23rd: TIDE Fish Fest: annual festival with activities including fishing tournament, kayak race, net casting competition, eating and swimming contests and tug of war. Ethnic food booths, music fun and games.

27-29 Mar 3rd Annual Belizean Flavor Craft Exhibition, Show and Sale Fr. Ring Parish Hall 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

1 April Maya Day Opening Ceremony and Torch Run from Lubaantun to Tumul K’in. Lubaantun, near San Pedro Columbia village, 4 pm.

5 April Marimba and Harp Playing Competition Punt a Gorda town, location to be announced

11 April Toledo Food Fair 2008: part of the Toledo Schools Feeding Program; information booths, food, games and PG Sports Complex, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. more. Local foods including cohune cabbage, dahl roti, cacao drink and more!

23-25 May Toledo Cacao Festival Central Park, Punta Gorda & Lubaantun

Cuxlin Ha timeshare resort and retirement village *Swimming pool with waterfall, lounge chairs and palapas to shade you. Pool open to public. River access for swimming & fishing.* *Hot showers, A/C, meeting facilities, volleyball court.* *Full kitchen facilities in every unit; meals available* *Inland and sea tours available with our licensed Maya guide* Located at the end of Papishaw Road, Eldridgeville. Email: [email protected]. PPAA Check us out at our website at: www.cuxlinha.com 5 th Annual Sidewalk Arts Festival Dona Scafe: 011-501-614-2518 . . 2007 special: $199USD+ tax DATE: February 9th and 10th For 1 week in a 1 bedroom condo, sleeps 4 in 2 beds. TIME: 10AM—6PM (Saturday) 10AM—3PM(Sunday) EVENTS: Music by Carlos Perrote, “Responsibility is our Motto.” Dance Performances, The Belizeal’s Watertaxi Daily Runs Punta Gorda Leaves 9am and many more. To Returns 2pm ARTISTS booths and tent space Puerto Barrios available.

Charters to Fulfill Your Needs Call: 626-0295 or 601-6919 12 Front Street Contact: Julio Requena Tel/Fax:(501)722-2070 Register online: Punta Gorda Town Email:[email protected] [email protected] Toledo, Belize, C.A. Site:www.belizenet.com/requena www.placenciaarts.com PO Box: #18 12 Coral House Inn BED, BREAKFAST AND BICYCLES

Step off of Main Street in Punta Gorda and experience the intimate atmosphere of the Coral House Inn, with spacious verandas overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Amenities include – Swimming pool, conti- nental breakfast, wireless internet, poolside bar and use of bicycles. www.coralhouseinn.net 722-2878

4th Annual Maya Day Celebrations

Beginning on the 1st of April Tumul Kin Center of Learning will host the 4th Annual Maya Day. Events will include: Opening Ceremony and Torch Run will be on the 1st of April at 4 p.m. This is from Lubaantun to Tumul K'in. It involves the communities of San Pedro Co- lumbia, San Miguel, Silver Creek, Big Falls, Dump, Mafredi, Blue Creek and Tumul K'in. The torch is lit during a short ceremony at Lubaantun and runners bring it to Tumul K'in to start the series of events.

On the 5th of April there will be a Marimba and Harp Playing Competition in Punta Gorda Town; exact location to be announced. And on the 12th April, Punta Gorda Cultural Morning will be happen- ing. Women's groups and craftspeople will be dis- playing their crafts at the PG Central Park. There will be cultural presentations and the finalists of the Marimba and Harp competitions will play for the public. On the afternoon of the 12th, we are hoping to have the Maya Ball Game (Chaj Chay) played for the first time in Toledo. Location for Chaj Chay is Union Field in PG Town.

On the 13th of April, Maya Day culminates with a day of cultural competitions, displays, food, dances, etc. Tumul Kin is hoping to have the Deer dance, as they did last year. The Deer dance with its colorful, mirrored costumes, elaborate masks and traditional music is not to be missed. Don’t miss Maya Day 2008!

One of the “must see” places in Belize TOLEDO’S BOTANICAL ARBORETUM More than a thousand species of ornamentals, rainforest trees and medicinal plants. Over 100 varieties of exotic tropical fruits. Formerly DEM DATS DOIN Pick up a brochure at the Toledo Info Center, Requena Charters or Deja Brew Cafe. Call Yvonne 722-2470 E-mail: [email protected] 13

Join BTIA and Put Your Business on the Map How Do I Join BTIA? BTIA is businesses working together to promote Toledo Visit www.btia.org to read about BTIA and all the other member- district as a tourism destination. ship benefits and to download an application form. Complete the form and hand it in to Mrs Leonora Requena at Requena’s char- Join now and get a FREE blank copy of the PG town map ters on Front St. above. Use the map to produce your own promotional lit- erature for your business. BTIA meets monthly on Wednesdays at the Tourism Information Center on Front Street. Be a part of BTIA and make a practical The BTIA membership year runs from January to Decem- contribution to the economic development of Toledo District. ber so apply now to put your business on the map from the beginning of 2008. 14

TOLEDO DISTRICT

Original map from “The Rough Guide to Belize” by Peter Eltringham, published by Rough Guides Classified Ads

Dream Light Computer Center Internet for .10¢ a minute, Student Discounts, Printing starting at .30¢ per page, A/C, Repairs, International Phone calls start- ing at .25¢ a min., Lowest Prices in town. Money gram agent, Mari Sol Boat agent to Guatemala (Located just past Texaco on Main Street, below Dream Light Club.) 702-0113/607-0033 [email protected] or [email protected]

For Sale, Nissan Frontier, 2004 dual cab 4 door 4wd model purchased new in 2005, incredible low mileage, just 20,200 miles. Fully maintained by Bravo, the Nissan dealer, 3 litre turbo diesel engine, manual transmission, ice cold a/c, great workhorse yet comfortable for cruising. Extras include cd/radio, tow hitch, roof rack, sun roof, very heavy duty tyres. Carefully driven by expat. Bargain price $40,000 obo. Available to view

Beya Suites Award Winning, Belize’s Small Hotel of the Year. 1 mile from the center of PG on the seafront. We are BIG in guest services. Air-conditioned rooms; private hot and cold bath; cable TV; internet/business center; restaurant and bar. Call 722- 2188/722-2956. www.beyasuites.com or [email protected]

Rough Guide to Belize New Edition! Available throughout Belize including Carysha’s, Punta Gorda, Cayeboard Connection, Caye Caulker, Belize Zoo, the Book Center and Marine Terminal Be- lize City , Caladium Restaurant, , Orange (formerly Caesar's) on the Western Highway and San Pedro Great Value Advertising in The Howler

Promote your business or sale items in our classi- fied section $25 for up to 21 words. Make sure your message gets to the people who need to see it! Phone 722-2276