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“Belizeans are people of the Reef!”

Press Release Date: April 9, 2013

Location: Belize City, Belize

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“Belizeans are people of the Reef!”

“Every Belizean at birth is the proud owner of the magnificent Belize Barrier and should do all that is possible to ensure that Belizeans who come after enjoy the same honor,” said Evan Moses Hyde of KREM TV at last night’s official launch of the first ever national Reef Week which runs from March 18th-24th.

Hyde was speaking during a cocktail party at the Radisson Fort George Hotel as he introduced keynote speaker Hon. Lisel Alamilla, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development (Minister Alamilla’s address is attached).

Meisha Ottley, before she gave the vote of thanks, rhapsodized about the Blue Hole. Meisha appeared as Miss Blue Hole in last year’s Queen of the Bay Pageant. Oceana VP Audrey Matura-Shepherd was MC for the evening and music was provided by La Rubeya Boys.

Reef Week aims to raise awareness of the pivotal role the Barrier Reef plays in Belizean lives and livelihood. Oceana premiered a mini-documentary titled “Meet a Fisherman”. This eight minute video features two primary-school aged, aspiring journalists asking local fishermen about their experiences and challenges.

Reef Week, which it is hoped becomes an annual event, culminated with a parade off the Belize City coast of decorated boats styled a Sea Carnival, followed immediately by a Reef Fair at the San Cas Park at Fort Point, opposite the Baron Bliss Lighthouse. An invitation has been extended to all to come out and enjoy this event which has been planned as a family affair.