JUNTOS PARA CONSERVAR LA LIBERTAD DE EX PRESION EN COROZAL, BELIZE

A CALL TO ARMS

The unexpected has finally come to past. The day when someone will look me in the face and say on of my blogs is an abuse of my position. People, the last time I checked I lived in a free society in a free world and I was allowed freedom by the blogspot on the internet to voice my opinions and to try to help others to learn. I pray the readers out there will see what I am saying and tell me if there has been anything on these blogs of mine that has misled anyone. I am a teacher by profession and director of the school in which I teach and one I am ashamed of my profession at the moment. You will ask why I am ashamed. My answer is because if a colleague can look me in the face and write on paper that I am abusing my position with the use of these or any of my blogs or website when all I set out to do was to help my students and to give some colour to their little Corozal Town lives, then there is something wrong with the educational system in which I live. Either it will have to go or I will.

This is the why wars begin. People misunderstand things because they are told a lot of rubbish and ideas are pushed into their already packed brain. I urge each and everyone to stop and think before they listen to others. Ask yourself why is this person doing this and what is the hidden agenda? People do things for different reasons. Think. Why would someone who is supposed to be a friend or was a friend at one time, of another person, suddenly turn on him or her?

I will tell you right now if I am told that this entry was wrong to write there will be a lot of changes in Belize very soon. My democratic right as a citizen in a free country must never be taken for granted. I may be a lot of things to different people, but I am a caring, honest teacher and Director. I fight for the right to learn and to have choices that will assist students to become strong men and women of Belize. It was my hope that one day someone out there would see these blogs and want to assist the school or students. THAT WAS MY HOPE. IT IS STILL MY HOPE AND I WILL TRY MY BEST TO SEE SOMETHING POSTIVE IN REGARDS TO THE BLOGS so they are not WRITTEN IN VAIN.

If you asked me why I began the blogs I would have to honestly say because Mr. Abel Lopez Rodriquez showed me how to do them. Abel is a person who sees the good in everything and everyone. I have had to tell him more than once that there are people who are around who are dangerous, conniving and just plain mean. All that sea breeze must be getting to the brain and causing a deficiency called “deception”. Trust me there will be no forgiving from now on.

Write me at http://cccandcjc-ace.blogspot.com and visit my website http://brendaysaguirre.galeon.com and tell me if I am abusing my connections with my school. I am calling on all bloggers to give me a hand on this. Give me the ammunition I need to fight back to save my blogs and myself. Today it is me, but tomorrow it can be YOU.

Thank you,
Brenda A. Ysaguirre
Director, ACE

CAYES OF BELIZE - CAYE CHAPEL

Caye Chapel Island Resort, Belize
Caye Chapel Island Resort, two hundred and sixty-five acres of Caribbean “PARADISE”. Truly a unique property, developed for those seeking the ultimate in seclusion, personal safety, and luxurious lifestyle within a getaway vacation.
Located just twelve miles off the coast of Belize, in the western Caribbean, a comfortable two-hour flight from the US mainland and a 10-minute flight from Belize City, Caye Chapel Island has been developed as a personal playground for the discriminating elite.
Operating as a very exclusive destination, this tropical island offers stunning seaside estate villas enhanced by the Caribbean Sea on its eastern shores and a spectacular 18-hole, Par 72 championship golf course (USGA rated) along its western edge. Featuring a deep-water marina welcoming yachts up to 140 feet, private airstrip, and 25,000 square foot clubhouse with a magnificent custom designed bar and restaurant, conference facilities, large swimming pool complex with bar, and over 2 miles of pristine sandy beaches.
Picturesque inland ponds, exotic wildlife, and abundant vegetation including several thousand coconut palm trees, enhance the magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea and Belize Barrier Reef. The entire property has been developed at the highest possible standards and is meticulously maintained.

Accommodations
Your private island retreat can be available to you for as reasonably as $200 per night for Jr. Suite accommodations. These casitas units are fully air-conditioned, finely furnished and outfitted with satellite television and DVD players. Measuring 750 square feet and overlooking a picturesque marina, the casita is ideal for hosting a romantic vacation for two.
The luxury villas have been designed with the discerning client in mind. No expense was spared when selecting the posh furnishings that emphasize the objective of total comfort, relaxation and privacy. Only steps away from the Caribbean Sea, these 3500 square foot homes offer either 2 or 3-bedroom floor plans with additional adjoining rooms equipped with bunk beds, twin size beds, or cribs which can be arranged to accommodate families of all sizes. Several televisions with satellite television and DVD players are available within all villas. Each master bath boasts Jacuzzi-style tubs and dual-sink vanity areas. Enormous walk-in closets may tempt you to pack for more than a typical 7-day getaway. Villa rates range from $800 to $1,500 per night based on four-person occupancy, proving that extravagance can be truly affordable.
For those with more discriminating taste and a need for the utmost level of privacy and seclusion, the entire island may be yours for $15,600 daily inclusive of meals. This rate guarantees exclusive rights to the entire property, closing the marina and golf course to all but your invited guests. Caye Chapel is able to comfortably accommodate 40 or more of your friends, family or employees, providing you with absolute reign of six oceanfront villas and eleven marina-view casitas. Superior service is offered at Caye Chapel affording your friends and family the ultimate in personal satisfaction.

Adventures
On-island: Unlimited golfing on our 18-hole championship golf course, Snorkelling, Pier Fishing, Shore walkout, Bone Fishing, Island Lake Tarpon Fishing, Paddle Boats, Kayaking, Bicycles, Volleyball court, Basketball court, 4 miles of jogging paths, Horseshoe pits, Coconut bowling, Crocodile and Bird watching, Spa treatments, Fine Dining.

Off-island: Diving, Mayan Ruins, Cave Tubing, Parasailing, Water-skiing, Belize Zoo, Belize City tours, Jungle Tours, River Tours, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Museums, Rafting, and much more.

CAYES OF BELIZE - GLOVER'S REEF

GLOVER ‘S REEF

White sand beaches predominate the palm-fringed Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve, a World Heritage site. Once the base of pirate John Glover, now boaters, divers and anglers flock to this isolated island. The most remote of the atolls, Glover’s Reef is about 70 miles southeast of Belize City. The far-out location makes this one of the most pristine areas in Belize. Brilliant blue waters in the 80-square-mile lagoon are dotted with some 700 coral patches and surrounded by 50 miles of sheer drop-offs ranging from 40 to 2,600 feet long. Excellent scuba diving, snorkeling, fly-fishing, kayaking and camping are all available here.
On Northeast Caye, Glovers Atoll Resort has cabins, camping, scuba diving, snorkeling, fly-fishing and marine instruction. Sea kayakers can explore patch reefs and the vertical wall surrounding the atoll through Slickrock Adventures, based on Long Caye. Their Water Sports Center resort features scuba diving, windsurfing and kayak surfing. There is also the chance for scenic camping on Long Caye.
Southwest Cayes consists of two islands. Kayaking can be done on the northernmost of the two islands. Manta Resort features thatched-roof cabanas, diving, snorkeling and fishing on the 14-acre southernmost island.

Wildlife Conservation Society at the forefront of Marine Conservation in Belize

Glovers Reef Marine Research Station WCS saves wildlife and wildlands by understanding and resolving critical problems that threaten key species and large, wild ecosystems around the world. As a leader in science-based conservation of marine wildlife for nearly a century, WCS’s Marine Program continues to promote conservation in the world’s oceans, seas and rivers. In over 20 countries, the WCS Marine Program develops innovative and constructive approaches to conserving marine biodiversity.
Located off the coast of Belize, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the Western Hemisphere. WCS’s Glovers Reef Marine Research Station, situated approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers) offshore, offers scientists throughout the world an opportunity to conduct high quality research focused on conserving marine wildlife at one of the Caribbean’s most complex and important coral reef systems.
The Glovers Reef Marine Research Station’s mission is to promote the long-term conservation and management of the Belize Barrier Reef through in-situ research, cooperative management, training, and education. The station successfully promotes the combination of both research and policy by serving as a scientific research station, a marine park headquarters for the Government of Belize and a location for students and local public to be educated and trained about the reef system and conservation.
Getting to Know Glovers ReefThe Belize Barrier reef is one of the world’s outstanding barrier reef systems, containing a necklace of three offshore atolls, hundreds of sand cays and patch reefs, mangrove forests, coastal lagoons, estuaries and a thriving ecosystem comprised of approximately 500 species of fish, 134 bird species, three varieties of nesting sea turtles, and one of the largest populations of West Indian Manatees.
One of the three off-shore atolls within the Belize barrier reef section of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is Glover’s Reef Atoll, approximately 45 km off the coast of Belize. It is located at the southern most end of the Belize Barrier reef and is an oval-shaped atoll measuring 32km long and 12km wide. At a glance, Glovers Reef is composed of a deep lagoon studded with about 850 patch reefs and pinnacles rising to the surface, six sand cays located on the reef crest along the southern edge, and a peripheral reef broken in only three places by deep channels. Glovers Reef has three main habitats; the lagoon floor, the peripheral reefs and the patch reefs, and is recognized as the most biologically developed atoll within the Belize Barrier Reef. The extraordinary biodiversity found at Glovers Reef makes it an important area for conservation currently as well as an economically important area for locals. Some key economically important species that are found within the atoll are the spiny lobster, queen conch, Nassau grouper, black grouper, hogfish, mutton fish, and queen triggerfish. Of these, the Nassau grouper is listed as an endangered species on IUCN’s Red list. The atoll is also home to three endangered species of turtles. Glovers Reef is also renowned for containing the greatest diversity of coral reef types.
Each of the six sand cays within the atoll is privately owned, except for the southern portion of Southwest Cay, where the lighthouse is located. WCS owns Middle Cay, one of the six sand cays and uses it as a home for Glovers Reef Marine Research Station. The atoll is located in a sub tropical climate, with average temperatures between 24C and 27C. During November to February it is slightly colder due to northern winds and the likelihood for stormy weather and frequent rain is higher. Since located in the hurricane belt, during the months of June to November there is also the potential threat for Glovers to be subject to hurricanes. For more detailed information regarding Belize's weather please visit the Belize National Meteorological Service Website.
Glovers Reef Marine Research StationWCS began its involvement in Belize during the late 1980’s when it initiated the planning and creation of Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve. Finally in 1993, Glover’s reef was declared a Marine Reserve by the government of Belize. The reserve was established to maintain ecological processes, preserve genetic diversity, achieve sustainable yields through informed management of species and their habitats, maintain natural areas for education and research, and provide social and economic benefits through ecologically sensitive tourism and recreation (For more information see Marine Reserve).WCS, recognizing that declaring Glovers Reef as a marine reserve was not enough to protect and conserve the amazing habitats and species found there, made a commitment to the region by purchasing Middle Cay and opening a research station. The intention of Glovers Reef Marine Research Station is to provide both a platform for scientists to conduct cutting edge research to ensure effective conservation management, as well as provide a home for the marine reserve head quarters. Annually the research station serves as a platform for over 45 researchers and since opening in 1997, the station has hosted more than 100 scientific expeditions and served as a platform for 400 researchers and students. The research station is also used regularly for meetings concerning the management of the atoll. (See Facilities for more information)
Research at Glovers ReefTo accomplish WCS’ mission of long term conservation of Glover’s reef and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, GRMRS promotes and supports research primarily focused on management related issues which can be applied to developing effective management strategies. Past research as well as current research has focused on investigating the trends and status of important species within the atoll, evaluating the effectiveness of marine reserves as a conservation strategy and the importance of the atoll for a variety of different marine species. With low levels of human intervention, coral communities with intact trophic structuring, and several different management zones within the atoll, Glover’s reef is a prime location for researchers to conduct their investigations (See Research and Publications for more information) Discovering Coral ReefsCoral reef ecology is a large part of the research being conducted at Glover’s Reef. Researchers are working to uncover the ecological relationships that exist among the fish, coral and algal communities at the atoll and even how larger fish, including several shark species use the atoll. Like other coral reef ecosystems around the world, Glover's Reef Atoll faces increasing pressure from humans. Locally and regionally, overfishing along with pollution from shipping, tourism and deforestation are significant threats to the ecologically fragile reef system.
At the same time, Glover's has been affected by the global problem of coral bleaching, the process in which stressed coral polyps discharge their symbiotic algae. The 1998 worldwide bleaching event, intensified by El Niño, caused a 20 percent mortality rate at Glover's. Also in 1998, Hurricane Mitch, which stalled off the coast of Belize for several days, caused major damage to vast areas of the reef. How these collective factors will affect Glover's Reef over both the short and long term will be the subject of extensive studies of WCS scientists. It has been found that within Glover’s reef, coral loss and loss of previous coral zonation patterns is occurring. Researchers are looking to discover more answers, but have determined that in addition to coral bleaching and hurricanes, increased algae growth, lower abundance of reef fish, and reduced herbivory seem to impact the survival and abundance of certain coral types. The research has started to uncover some of the intricate trophic interactions at the reef among the coral and other species, but much more research is needed to fully understand and protect this precious environment from the threats it is facing (McClanahan and Muthiga 1998, McClanahan 1999, 2000, 2001).Designing Effective Marine ReservesGlovers Reef was chosen as an ideal site for a marine reserve in the 1970’s due to the complex and diverse reef system. In1993, Glovers Reef marine reserve was established and became the platform for future studies investigating the efficiency of marine reserves. The reserve has four management zones, the general use zone, the conservation zone, the seasonal closure zone and the wilderness zone (For more information see Marine reserve). Guidelines have been developed for each zone to regulate the entry and use of each area by people. The unique opportunity Glovers Reef marine reserve provides has resulted in research projects investigating the effect of marine reserves on commercially important species like the spiny lobster and Nassau grouper, as well as the structuring of the fish-coral interactions within the reef systems. Research has suggested that conservation of multiple habitat types is essential for maintaining species richness and has emphasized a need for scale-dependent planning in marine reserves. The research occurring at Glovers Reef has also resulted in a major accomplishment for WCS’s goal in developing effective policies. With the necessary scientific research, WCS, with the help of many in Belize, were successful in getting legislation passed to close Nassau Grouper spawning sites to fishing year round as well as establish a period of closed season on fishing. This was a major step towards ensuring survival and conservation of this species and only highlights one of the many accomplishments of WCS staff and researchers at Glovers Reef. Looking forward to the future, WCS plans to continue researching the effectiveness of Glovers Reef marine reserve and plans to use cutting edge technology including telemetry, remote sensing/GIS, and genetics, to overcome some of the potential conservation gaps in the design of marine reserves. Management Training and EducationA vital component of WCS’s involvement in Belize is its strong ties with the Government of Belize. Apart from just generating scientific data, it is the goal of WCS to share the marine conservation work that occurs at the station with government officials, students, as well as the public. One aspect of WCS’ contribution to Belize is to provide data relevant to the policy and decision making processes for the marine reserve and conservation in general. In addition, another approach WCS takes is providing marine ecology classes and training in marine protected area management to government officials and local or foreign students.

Copyright 2007 by Wildlife Conservation Society

CAYES OF BELIZE - CAYE CAULKER

Caye Caulker is the place to be laid back. Most eloquent of the caye's spirit is the sign on the main road exhorting "Go Slow". Hammocks, sandy streets, and cool Caribbean breezes greet arrivals. If you catch a taxi, a golf cart is what you'll get. From the asphalt landing strip lead just a handful of streets through the small village of seaside restaurants, lodges, pubs, shops and clapboard houses in bright colors. The barrier reef can be seen from the main road.

Caye Caulker is relatively small, at five miles long by one half mile wide. Of this, only the southern end is inhabited by villagers and visitors; the wet northern section is a mangrove and forest reserve, the abode of mangroves, nesting birds, and palm trees, with trails for visitors. The two sections are separated by a narrow water passage, the Split, created by Hurricane Hattie in 1961 and which has become popular with snorkelers, boaters, swimmers and sunbathers.

It is thought Caye Caulker's name came from pirates caulking their ships, although another possibility is from the Spanish name "Cayo Hicaco" for the island, so named after the cocoplum tree found abundantly in the island's reserve.

Caye Caulker's 1,000 residents are a mix of Belizean and foreigners who have settled to enjoy the unique atmosphere.

Attractions

Apart from the pleasures of taking it easy and enjoying life on the island, the caye has the widest range of watersports and is well-positioned for day trips to many attractions in the area:-

Snorkeling at the Split, or excursions to Goff's Caye, Sergeants Caye, Half Moon and Long Caye.
Diving, with over 20 dive sites within a 5 minute boat ride, and with the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole, Pyramid Flats, Long Caye, Coral Caverns, Turneffe and St George's Caye all within easy boat distance.

Fishing on flats, reefs, or offshore for bonefish, permit, snapper, tarpon, kingfish, wahoo etc.

There are many sportfishing boats available for half- or full-day trips.

Windsurfing and kayaking (both available for rental, and lessons)

Birding as the caye offers more than 150 species including the rufous-necked woodrail, mangrove warbler and black catbird.

Mainland trips to Mayan ruins and other attractions

Visitor Info

There are plenty of lodges and inns on the caye, typically budget to mid-range. Dress is extremely casual, shorts and T-shirt being the norm, often without shoes. The caye has plenty of small restaurants, offering Belizean and seafood fare, often at good prices.

Getting There

Caye Caulker is reached by water taxi from Belize City (6 scheduled trips per weekday, 7 per weekend day), or by plane with Tropic Air and Maya Airways from Belize Municipal. The caye is 21 miles northeast of Belize City, so the boat trip takes around 45 minutes and the flight 15 minutes.

CAYOS DE BELICE - AMBERGRIS CAYE

THE WONDERS OF THIS EARTH FAR OUT WEIGH THE DISAPPOINTMENTS OF LIFE. LIVE THEM AND LEARN FROM THEM. (Brenda A. Ysaguirre)

AMBERGRIS CAYE

25 miles long, Ambergris Caye is the largest and most developed of about 200 small islands off the coastline of Belize, and is connected to Mexico on its northern side. Most of the island's 7,000 inhabitants live in the town of San Pedro, located in the southern part of the caye. San Pedro has the cosy, laid-back atmosphere of a small village with its wooden houses and sand streets.

Transport is by walking, bicycling, and riding by golf cart. The town is small and easy to explore. One place worth visiting in the town is the new Ambergris Caye Museum and Cultural Center, which exhibits the island's history from the ancient Mayans to today's inhabitants. A number of lively restaurants and bars in the town provide entertainment for their customers with bands, solo performers featuring country and rock as well as local "Punta" music, a unique drumbeat from the Garifuna culture.

Ambergris Caye is most famous for its spectacular diving and snorkeling. Just off Belize's Barrier Reef, which is clearly visible from many resorts, numerous diving sites can be found here such as the Hol Chan Reserve and Shark Ray Alley where visitors can see several types of coral and incredible marine life. The caye also has excellent fishing opportunities with several lodges and hotels that offer deep-sea fishing. Sailing tours, which usually last the entire day and tour around Ambergris as well as other near-by cayes, can be arranged with local guides. Kayaks are also available for rent.

If you are interested in wildlife, you can visit Little Iguana and Rosario Caye, two small mangrove island reserves just off of Ambergris. These two cayes are great places to spot blue herons, roseate spoonbills, frigate birds, reddish egrets and other coastal zone birds. Tours can be arranged through local guides. The San Pedro Lagoon is a good place to spot crocodiles, raccoons and countless magnificent bird species. And the small Lalas Bird Sanctuary, located just a few miles south of San Pedro, is a great place to see several native bird species.
Since Ambergris was once greatly populated by the Mayans, there are many small Mayan sites on the island. Unfortunately, many of these sites have been greatly eroded away by the sea and wind, and are located in hard to reach places. If you are interested in visiting any of these sites, such as Marco, Chac, Balam, San Juan, San Carlos and Gonzalez, you should acquire a guide that knows the locations.

Attractions

Apart from the pleasures of taking it easy and enjoying life on Ambergris, the caye has the widest range of watersports and is well-positioned for day trips to many attractions in the area:-

Snorkeling along the beach, or excursions to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and to Shark Ray Alley.

Diving, by boat along the barrier reef, and at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole, Shark Ray Alley, and the offshore atolls.

Fishing on the reefs or offshore for snapper, grouper, bonito, dolphin, wahoo and blue marlin etc.

There are many sportfishing boats up to 57 feet available for half- or full-day trips.
Windsurfing and sailing (both available for rental, and lessons at many resorts). Even bareboat catamaran hire is available.

Biking on the caye

Santa Cruz visit (a Mayan ruin 15 miles north of San Pedro)

Cruises at sunset, for dinner, or sightseeing

Airboat tours through the mangrove forests on the leeward of the island to see wildlife

Manatee watching by boat to scenic cayes

Birding at Bird Caye and the new national park in the north, Bacalar Chico

Mainland trips to Mayan ruins and other attractions

THIS IS MY BELIZE! COME VISIT HER. I KNOW YOU WILL BE IMPRESSED.

Yours in Belize,

Brenda A. Ysaguirre

CANCION NACIONAL DE BELICE

LAND OF THE FREE
O, land of the free by the Carib Sea, our manhood we pledge to thy liberty!
No tyrants here linger, despots must flee
This tranquil haven of democracy
The blood of our sires which hallows the sod,
Brought freedom from slavery oppression's rod,
By the might of truth and the grace of God
No longer shall we be hewers of wood.

Chorus: Arise! ye sons of the Baymen's clan,
put on your armour, clear the land!
Drive back the tyrants, let despots flee-
Land of the Free by the Carib Sea!

Nature has blessed thee with wealth untold,
O'er mountains and valleys where praries roll;
Our fathers, the Baymen, valiant and bold
Drove back the invader; this heritage hold
From proud Rio Hondo to old Sarstoon,
Through coral isle, over blue lagoon;
Keep watch with the angels, the stars and moon;
For freedom comes tomorrow's noon.

Chorus:

ORACION NACIONAL DE BELICE Y UN MENSAJE A LAS MUJERES DEL MUNDO

National Prayer of Belize
Almighty and Eternal God, who through Jesus Christ has revealed your glory to all nations, please protect and preserve Belize, our beloved country.
God of might, wisdom and justice, please assist our Belizean government and people with your Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude.
Let the light of your divine wisdom direct their plans and endeavors so that with your help we may attain our just objectives. With your guidance, may all our endeavors tend to peace, social justice, liberty, national happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety and useful knowledge.
We pray, O God of Mercy, for all of us that we may be blessed in the knowledge and sanctified in the observance of your most holy law, that we may be preserved in union and in that peace which the world itself cannot give. And, after enjoying the blessings of this life, please admit us, dear Lord, to that eternal reward that you have prepared for those who love you, Amen.

Happy International Day of the Woman to all the women in this world. May you take control of yourself and do that which is most important: to love yourself and to share that love with others, work hard for your satisfation, enjoy the goodness of life and have peace in your heart at all time.

Remember:

Life is a battle that can only be overcomed if you truly believe you can overcome it.

(Brenda A. Ysaguirre)