Ozzie migrated to Belize from Jamaica in
1977. This alert young person came with high hopes of upgrading his
lifestyle and dedicating himself to his new home - Belize. Settling in
Belize City, Ozzie first worked in the construction business for the
government Housing and Planning Department. This was a good job but at
the first opportunity he was given, he moved into the tourism industry, a
field he was passionate about. He worked in many renown places, of that
time, such as the Melting Pot Disco and Zorba the Greek Restaurants.
In April of 1981 he moved to San Pedro where he saw
that tourism was blossoming and more opportunities for him were readily
available. His first job was at Captain Locos (Big Daddy's Disco today)
as a bartender. As a newcomer he said he wanted to be known as an
outstanding person in the local community. He said he would wear a shirt
with his Scorpion zodiac sign on the back. This practice soon got him
nicknamed "Scorpio" by his, now, numerous friends. After six months of
bartending he was offered a job at the Hide-a-Way Hotel which he
accepted. There he started as a bartender/waiter but soon proving to be
an avid worker and willing to learn, was promoted to a managerial
position. Ozzie was a natural in this business and did outstanding work
for the hotel. His friendliness and one-on-one personal business
relations with his clients made this place a very popular one. A little
over thirteen years later the hotel changed ownership and the owners
added new concepts. Ozzie explained, "It's like a game of cards, you
never know what to expect." So he ventured out on his own.
He then tried his expertise in the culinary arts and
opened the Classique Restaurant. This restaurant, situated on Middle
Street, offered the best in local Creole food as well as American
cuisine. But still this was not really Ozzie's forte. He then went into
the insurance business but again did not feel the satisfaction he had
felt while working in the hotel business.
In 1995 he was back in action after being hired by
Royal Palm Villas (now Royal Palm Beach Club). Today he works as
Operations Manager supervising the maintenance and overseeing food,
beverage and other aspects of the resort.
Ozzie's personality is one of a kind and
indescribable. Even though he is tied up with his job, he is also known
for his always delightful chats with the people of San Pedro. He is the
husband of Mrs. Irma Palmer and father of two daughters Shaina and Sofia.
He is closely involved in the South-End Neighborhood Watch where he
serves as the Vice-President.
Ozzie has proven that perseverance is definitely the
key to a successful future. His friendliness and warm smile, as well as
his invaluable knowledge of the tourism industry makes him an asset to
Royal Palm Beach Club and "Our Community."