Belize News Daily, 5/11/2020 to 5/20/2020, Ambergris Caye

Ocean Ferry Phase-1 Re-opening Beginning Wednesday 20/05

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Boat accident injures two; San Pedro Police investigation underway
An investigation by the Belize Port Authority on the island is currently underway to find out the cause of a boat accident on the lagoon side of San Pedro Town on Sunday, May 17th. Five persons were traveling in a 25-foot boat when it crashed into the dock at the International Water Taxi Terminal, causing injuries to two of its passengers. The captain of the boat was detained by police pending an investigation into the mishap.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Wednesday, May 20th Meal Pick Up Location: Hibisca Restaurant Times: Village: 11:00 - 11:45. Bahia: 11:45 - 12:30.

SPTB: Attention San Pedro Contractors RE: Materials in Streets
The San Pedro Town Council and the San Pedro Building Unit hereby inform all contractors that in order to use the street to place materials for casting, you must request a permission from the San Pedro Town Council. This permission must be requested at the office of the San Pedro Town Council at least 24 hours prior to the use of the street. Once permission is granted contractors must pay the set fee before acquiring the permission in writing. Failure to show a written permission for use of the street from the San Pedro Town Council will result in a STOP ORDER.

SIDS DOCK and GRID-Arendal announce strategic partnership for sustainable use and management of marine resources in small islands and low-lying developing countries
On May 14, 2020, the Government of Belize participated in a virtual conference where SIDS DOCK, the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Sustainable Energy and Climate Resilience Organization, signed an agreement with GRID-Arendal to collaborate on the promotion of nature-based solutions and technologies for the sustainable use and management of marine resources to support the economic and livelihoods systems of populations of small island and low-lying developing countries.

Maya Archaeological Sites Reopened
The following sites are open for visitation effective immediately: Santa Rita, Cerro Maya, Lamanai, Altun Ha, Cahal Pech, Caracol, El Pilar, Xunantunich, Serpon, Nim Li Punit, Lubaantun. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the sites. Please practice social distancing and proper hygiene. *CAVE SITES ARE NOT OPEN

BelizeBooking.com
Thinking of vacationing at home once again? We can help you with that! Introducing www.BelizeBooking.com, a microsite that lets you know all the hotel deals available countrywide for you and your family. From huge discounts to low-cost vacation packages, it’s easy to become a Belizean Traveller again. We encourage you to remain safe as you explore your Jewel.

Repatriation for Displaced Belizeans Abroad Form
If you are a Belizean whose permanent country of residenceis Belizeand you have been unable to travel home due to the closure of our borders as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you will now be able plan your return. Note that this can only be done with prior coordination and approval from Government of Belize. The reason for coordination and approval is required is to limit, as much as possible, the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health and safety of all those in Belize, especially those most vulnerable.

Artist of the Day - Kimberly Griffith
Kimberly Hannah Griffith was born in1970 in Belize City. At the age of nine, her family moved to Corozal Town, where she has spent most of her life. One of Kimberly’s earliest introductions to art was brought about while she was attending Primary School where a teacher taught her the craft of macramé. In 1989 during her first pregnancy, Kimberly taught herself the art of crochet. Over the years her pieces evolved into one-of-a-kind clothing designs: dresses, swimwear, tops, and coordinates. Kimberly ventured further and began creating her own jewelry which has evolved to include natural items such as seeds, wood, seashells, coconut shells, and more. “I turned my creativity into a business. It was a natural gift of creativity motivated by God which allowed me to self-elevate in the field.”

Today's "Ask the Experts"
Tune into Ask the Experts tomorrow, May 20th, at 10:00 a.m. Joining us will be the CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Lou-Anne Burns Martinez to discuss the repatriation process for Belizeans displaced abroad.

Summary of Statutory Instrument No. 73 of 2020
Arrangement of Regulations, Effective Monday, May 18, 2020.

Belize Botanic Gardens reopens May 20th, 2020
All BELIZEANS ENTER FOR FREE!!!!!! 50% on guided tours, special rates on tea tasting and medicinal tour. With 45 acres of exotic plants, river access and wildlife, social distancing is easy! Reconnect with nature at BBG!

Happy International Day!
Belize is a country of diverse ethnic/culture groups with diverse cultures, belief systems, foods, customs, traditions, and languages. Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, Mennonite, Chinese, and East Indian comprise the major ethnic groups. Join us for this virtual exhibition on the Faces of Belize. Happy International Day! Part 2

"Heritage at Home" Contest
Here's your reminder to send in your submissions of how you have been practicing your "Heritage at Home" to the Institute for Social & Cultural Research. Your entries will be shared on May 22!

Channel 7

Tropic Air Lays Off 200+
We've been reporting heavily on domestic tourism - but while it is a welcome help to struggling hotels and resorts, it's not enough to keep major tourist enterprises afloat in the toughest times this industry has ever seen. And that's why - with no fixed date for international tourism to resume - layoffs in the tourism sector are expected to increase this going into June. One of the hardest hit is Tropic Air. With 400 employees, it's one of the biggest private employers in Belize, and had been keeping on its full staff throughout the COVID crisis - with pay cuts.

Belize Now Only Nation on Mainland of Americas With (Much) More Than 1 Day COVID Free
And, Belize has a lot to protect. It is now the only nation on the mainland of the Americas which has gone more than 1 day without detecting a positive case of COVID 19. This distinction comes after a positive case was detected in Suriname on Saturday. That tiny south American nation had been without a case for 44 days up to that point.

Repatriation of Stranded Belizeans To Begin
And Belize's quite remarkable COVID free run is why there is some anxiety concerning the return of Belizean Citizens who have been stuck in all different corners of the world since late March when the airport and borders were closed. The Prime Minister announced last week that there would be a re-opening for those Belizeans to be repatriated. But, it has to be an orderly return. And the first step towards that went live late last night when the Belize Controlled Repatriation form went live on the official COVID19.BZ website.

Blease Back To Belize, Coming By Cruise
One of those who are coming home by ship, cruise ship to be exact is DJ Linda Blease. She has been working on cruise ships for years now and took up her most recent contract with Celebrity Cruises in January. The gig should have lasted until July, but everything got backed up by COVID 19 - and she has been stuck on a cruise liner in quarantine for two months now. We spoke to her via Zoom Conference call today as the ship she's on is making its repatriation route up the Central American Atlantic Coast:

Who Owns Mile 44? Not Nigel
Last night on the news we showed you all the drama of Sunday's big grass-roots land grab in Cotton Tree village. Land activist Nigel Petillo is encouraging Belizeans to clear over two thousand acres at mile 44 to begin the process of squatting for Title by Prescription. He said it's a first come, first serve basis and on Sunday that sent a rush of interested potential landowners to the area. Representatives for the Belmopan Land Development Corporation were watching closely - and with consternation. That company owns the land Petillo is trying to grab for the public - and they have owned it going back to the 1990's.

Canal Fish Kill Explained
Last night, we told you about the frustration of the Belize City Residents who were suffering with the foul stench of dead fishes in the canal which runs along the length of East and West Canal Streets. For a few days now, large groups of fish were suddenly turning up dead in the canal which was stagnated by 2 recently-installed clay dams. We've since learned that these clay dams were set up by engineers working on the Climate Vulnerability Reduction Program. It's a comprehensive mitigation plan for Belize City that is funded by the Inter-American Development Bank, and the Government, through the Ministry of Works.

Coke Truck With Weed
After an arrest on Friday, a Bowen and Bowen delivery man from Pomona Village in the Stann Creek District was left to face a drug trafficking charge. That's after police say they busted him with a bag of marijuana in his delivery truck. Police say that at around 10:45 a.m. on Friday, May 15, they intercepted the delivery truck, while it was making its rounds in the Stann Creek District. They were acting on intelligence that drugs were concealed inside the truck. The responding officers then pulled over the driver, who was later identified as 26-year-old Melvin Velasquez.

Consumers Complain About Bills, BEL Urges Energy Saving
There's been a whole lot of blowback this month and last on Facebook with consumers complaining about high electricity bills. Now, we've been in the news business long enough to know that this is a chronic complaint when temperatures soar in April and May and every fan in every house is runnings. But, it comes at a terrible time for consumers - many of who have lost their jobs - and feel that BEL is cheating them.

The Big Cats Coming Back
Last night you heard the Attorney General talk about the re-opening of Archaeological sites, and tourism attractions such as Shark Ray Alley. And, one other major attraction that is reopening is the Belize Zoo. The 37 year old facility has planned a soft-reopening even for this coming weekend of Saturday, May 23rd, and Sunday, May 24th. They're hoping that the regular flow of traffic into the Zoo will gradually increase to those pre-COVID-19 numbers.

Gyms Want COVID Restrictions Lifted
And while you may be excited to see your favorite Jaguar this weekend, you'd be wise to make it a workout, because it might be a while before you can hit the gym. That's because under even the relaxed State of Emergency guidelines, gyms remain closed. It's a COVID time reality caused by the perception of the gym as a place where viral and bacterial droplets are released through exhalations and sweat. But gym owners argue that the gym is a no less sanitary place than any other, with gym members already in the habit of sanitizing every surface they touch.

Copal Black Corn For Farmers
We've been reporting on the wildfires devastating Western and Southern Belize. The drought provided the ideal conditions for agricultural fires set by farmers to get out of hand and destroy huge tracts of forest. A concerted, community, NGO and government effort got the first out - but as that old 80's song says, "after the fire, the fire still burns." And it's burnt a hole right through the pockets of the farmers in the Toledo district who lost their crops in the blaze.

Green's Good For Mental Health
Losing crops is only one of a myriad of mental health stressors sure to be affecting Belizeans during this COVID period. So, the arrival of Mental Health month is timely. And while the expected panel discussions and solidarity marathons are a no go in 2020, the mental health NGO, Mind Health Connect has found a way for Belizeans to stand in solidarity for the cause while maintaining, all-important, social distance. Sahar Vasquez told us more:

Channel 5

P.S.U. to Get Prime Property for Hilltop Settlement
The Public Service Union and the Belmopan City Council have buried the ‘Hilltop’ hatchet. They have reached a settlement in the form of another piece of property. Today, the P.S.U. [...]

Limited Congregation Size Forces Churches to Remain Closed
Since the start of the state of emergency, the churches have been meeting online for services to prevent any contagion of the novel coronavirus. Stay-at-home orders, the cap on gatherings of [...]

Caribbean Union of Teachers Vehemently Opposes to CSEC Exams Being Held in July
While locally the B.N.T.U. and P.S.U. have reached agreement with the government to forgo increments, there is a storm brewing involving regional exams. That is because despite opposition in the [...]

CUT Says Ministries of Education Not Prepared for CXC Exams
The regional union says that it has seen no evidence of any action plan by Ministries of Education in the region, which suggests that they have adopted any approved set [...]

Understanding a Need for Land in Cotton Tree
The desire to own a parcel of land sent hundreds of persons out to mile forty-four on the George Price Highway. Activist Nigel Petillo, formerly of BGYEA, has identified two [...]

Tropic Air Sending Home More than 200 Employees
We will have a look at the local tourism industry later in the newscast, but tonight the news for hundreds of employees at a local airline is not good. Tropic [...]

Testing Protocol for Returning Belizeans
Belize now stands as the only country on the American mainland without a new case of COVID-19; that’s because today, Suriname recorded a positive case after forty-four days of no [...]

Will There Be a New Water Taxi Terminal in San Pedro?
More than eight hundred and thirty people have signed an online petition to call on San Pedro officials to put a stop to a proposed water taxi terminal in downtown [...]

Businessman Says Proposed Water Taxi Terminal is Problematic
During the programme, Peter Lawrence summed up a few of the concerns about the project. He says that traffic congestion, safety for students and other concerns show that this is [...]

Mark Rodriguez Tells His Side of the Story
They say there are always two sides to every story and on Monday, we brought you the side of Assistant Superintendent of Police Aaron Gamboa. ASP Gamboa and junior officer, [...]

PC Rodriguez Slapped with Several Charges
PC Mark Rodriguez was arrested and charged for several offenses, including S.O.E. violations and for refusing to provide a specimen. He was arraigned and released on bail on Monday. Rodriguez [...]

PC Rodriguez Says Dispute is Personal, Over Land in Camalote
According to Rodriguez’s wife, Krista Zelaya, the dispute between both parties is personal. She says that Gamboa has reportedly been developing her land, which was passed down from her father. [...]

Forgo’ It Is! B.N.T.U., P.S.U. and G.O.B. Resolve Impasse
The Government of Belize, the Public Service Union and the Belize National Teachers Union are now on the same page. All sides have agreed to the word “forgo” as the [...]

B.N.T.U. President Says the Chamber Had No Idea
When the dispute became public, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry weighed in saying that the unions were out of touch with the current reality of COVID-19 and the [...]

The Possibility of Retrenchment in the Public Sector is Real
And while public officers and teachers are forgoing their increments, will they face retrenchment? At his press conference last week, the Prime Minister said he will borrow as long as [...]

The Impact of COVID-19 on Belize’s Tourism Industry
COVID-19 has had a severe impact on the economy resulting in massive layoffs especially so in the tourism industry. The B.T.B. was among the first to cut back on its [...]

Reopening the P.G.I.A. Will Pose a Challenge…
Last week, Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced a tentative date for the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport to allow for international visitors to resume travel to Belize. July [...]

…But B.T.B. Keeping International Visitors Engaged
While health experts foresee challenges with the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport, there is optimism at the Belize Tourism Board about international tourists being able to return to [...]

Salvadoran Jailed for Illegal Entry
Jose Sosa, a Salvadoran construction worker was nabbed in Belize City this morning and when he failed to present documentation that he entered the country legally, he was escorted to the [...]

Belizean Traveller Campaign is Launched to Boost Domestic Tourism
With the borders and the international airport still closed, local tourism is being promoted across the country as a first step before international visitors begin making their way back to [...]

B.T.B. Developing a Property Manual for Hotels/Resorts
As the Belize Tourism Board promotes local tourism, it is also getting ready for the day when international visitors arrive at the P.G.I.A. It is collaborating with the Ministry of [...]

Birding – the Challenges and Opportunities!
The quality and long-term viability of the natural environment are critical to tourism businesses across the world. Marine animals, birds and wildlife contribute significantly and add value to Belize’s tourism [...]

Amandala

Police charge activist for Harmonyville gathering
Nigel Petillo, 44, an activist of Harmonyville, was arrested and charged with violation of Emergency Powers Regulations for movement outside curfew hours without a valid reason and for not wearing a mask. He was ordered to appear in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court to be arraigned on the charges. A conviction for such offenses under the Emergency Powers Regulations could result in a fine of $5,000 or 3 years imprisonment.

Guatemalan President gets death threat because of COVID-19 lockdown
When it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic, Belize is in a class by itself. It was the last country in the Americas to report its first case of the novel coronavirus on March 23. The country went on to make history when it became the first country in the Americas to be free of the virus on May 6 — the only COVID-19-free country in the Americas. North, south and west of Belize, in Mexico and Guatemala, the novel coronavirus continues to exact a heavy toll, with cases spiking in both countries. And while the Belizean economy is beginning to slowly emerge from its one-month lockdown, in Guatemala, which is in the early phase of a complete lockdown, the president has come under a death threat because of the lockdown, according to a report from the Washington-based National Public Radio (NPR).

Government refuses to budge
Prime Minister Dean Barrow, whose administration has been at odds with the public service unions over government’s proposal to freeze increments for two fiscal years, 2020-2021, announced today that the government’s proposal has been accepted by one of the three unions, the Association of Public Service Senior Managers (APSSM). Following their meeting yesterday in Belmopan, the Public Service Union (PSU) and the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) emerged from the meeting indicating that they wanted to amend the wording of the agreement government had put forward to end the impasse over increments and retirement packages.

Government to ease more SoE restrictions
During a virtual press conference this morning, Prime Minister Dean Barrow took time out to announce that Belize is one of only twelve countries and territories in the world that has no case of the novel coronavirus. The Prime Minister praised the frontline workers and our very own Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, who spearheads the government’s fight against the pandemic.

Attorney General explains government’s easing of some SOE restrictions
This morning, Prime Minister Dean Barrow took to the airwaves in a virtual press conference to announce that government has amended some of the regulations in the Statutory Instrument (SI) which gives effect to the national State of Emergency. Government’s amendment of the SI, which comes into effect tomorrow, Friday, May 15, is geared toward a relaxation of the stringent measures that were put in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in an effort to open more sectors of the local economy. By afternoon, Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte appeared on the government’s webcast Ask the Experts to explain the do’s and don’ts of the amendment.

Mexicans caught fishing in marine reserve; escape from quarantine
Three Mexicans who came to Belize illegally were busted fishing in the Bacalar Chico Nature Park and Marine Reserve in Northern Ambergris Caye, Belize District, yesterday, Thursday, by the Belize Coast Guard, who were conducting a routine patrol in the reserve yesterday. The Mexicans were identified as Gabriel Vargas de la Cruz, Noel Gonzalez Alamilla and Arturo Pedro Cordero. Coast Guard officers said that when the men saw them coming, they threw away the marine products that they had caught and tried to speed away, but the Coast Guard pursued and caught them.

Five Belizeans caught bringing Corona beer from Guatemala
At about 4:30 yesterday evening, five Belizeans from Calla Creek, Cayo District, were found crossing into Belize illegally from Guatemala, through one of the many back roads along the porous borders between the two countries, in the Cayo District. The men went into Melchor, Guatemala, to buy cheap beer and were returning when they were busted with 3 cases of Corona beer and some other types of beer in bags they were carrying.

Chamber calls debate between GOB and unions unacceptable
The two major trade unions representing public servants, the Public Service Union (PSU) and the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), have been involved for the past few weeks in negotiations with the Barrow administration over government’s proposals concerning increments and retirement benefits. On Wednesday, the two sides met in Belmopan, but following the meeting, the unions wanted to amend the agreement that had been reached with government. Today, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry issued a press release chastising both sides over their impasse, and describing the situation as a debate that is totally unacceptable.

Government sets new, higher prices for butane gas
Last Wednesday, May 13, the government’s Supplies Control Unit issued new prices for Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) or butane, ending speculation that the National Gas Company Limited, which takes over the importation of LPG by order of government, was not ready to supply the country with the fuel. Under an act of Parliament, government created the National Gas Company, giving it the exclusive right to import LPG into the country. The group of Central American companies which had been importing the fuel took the government to court. In a lawsuit, the companies —Belize Western Energy Limited, Gas Tomza, and Zeta Gas, are alleging that their constitutional rights were violated due to the monopoly that was created when government created the National Gas Company and gave it the exclusive right to import LPG.

Valley of Peace gas station robbed; getaway vehicle overturns
At about 4:30 this evening, four men in an SUV went into a Valley of Peace gas station and held up the cashier at gunpoint. The robbers robbed the gas station of an undisclosed amount of money, after which they escaped in an SUV and headed in the direction of Spanish Lookout. No one was hurt during the robbery, but reportedly, a man fired at the fleeing thieves, who still managed to make their getaway.

Editorial: The Chamber should be fighting alongside unions
It is understandable that some Belizeans who have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic might harbor some envy of the workers on the public payroll who have been promised that the government will borrow, until it cannot borrow anymore, to meet their “15th and ending” salaries. This is a time when we are all called upon to make sacrifices for our country, to ensure we survive, and the Government of Belize has asked its employees to contribute to the effort by foregoing their annual increments. Relative to the shortfall in revenue which has occurred because of the pandemic, what the government’s employees have been asked to give up isn’t much. However, the unions for the public servants and the teachers have not agreed to the request from government. We understand that they want the increments to be deferred for a few years.

Caribbean students will sit CXC exams for 2020
It is official — secondary and tertiary schools will be administering CXC examinations in July of 2020, and the reception of this announcement made by the Ministry of Education on May 12 has been far from great. The Caribbean Examinations Council released a statement on March 26, 2020 to make clear their intentions of providing a modified version of the CAPE and CXC exams in July. The decision to administer these exams, however, did not solidify until May 8 after there was a majority vote in favor of the decision at a meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD), and Belize’s Cabinet later endorsed this decision on May 12.

From the Publisher
Say you’re an extremely wealthy Belizean individual, family, or business group, and then this coronavirus catastrophe strikes, boom, the bottom falls completely out of the tourism money maker, and the Belizean economy goes into panic mode. Almost half the population of Belize was already in the poverty category of sufferers, and now tons of the gainfully employed go on the chopping block, so to speak. In order to have become extremely wealthy, in the first instance, you would have had to cultivate a mindset of a certain type, which is to say, you would have had to be hard core capitalist and place your bank account and business assets above all other considerations, considerations such as the welfare of the other human beings in your community/society.

The Blacks bought the bullshit – about Sam Cooke
Well, not really. At least, enough of them did; as well as some voices in the media, especially the Jim Crow mouthpieces. The result was that the masses of heartbroken black fans, as well as many young white ones, did not feel empowered or justified in vociferously blaming the right forces for the calculated murder of their icon, the one Sam Cooke. They were both embarrassed and disarmed by the official storyline – what more embarrassing than to be caught literally “with your pants down”?

Edgar Reginald, the first son …
Edgar Reginald, the second child and first son of Jewel and Jerome, had made his appearance on November 20th, on schedule and on Matron’s birthday! The pregnancy had proceeded smoothly after the initial uncertainty, the couple had been successful in weaning Arreini by the end of August without too much difficulty, so everything had been in readiness for him.

There is no lusty singing on the bus
Ignoring the fact that sports isn’t even on the table in the current plans for return to normalcy, I would understand if sports fans hollered, UNFAIR, if they were told that come Monday morning people could fill every seat on the bus to travel to work but that on Sunday afternoon only a limited number of them could go watch the game at the park, because every sports fan is a heathen. Sports is religion, given to us by God – remember He said we cannot live by bread alone, that ehm, there must be some diversion — but ah, fans tend to lose it when they enter a stadium. For that hour or two during which fans are at the game, God forgive them if they have bitter hatred for their rivals.

Letter: Football Flashback – 1960’s
Three players that I remember from that era which should make your list are: Dundee, can’t remember his full name; Billy Gill and Wallace “Smitty” Smith. If I remember correctly, all played for Queens Park Rangers. I believe Smitty was the brother-in-law of Winty J. Rojo Arnold was also family to these two. Billy Gill worked at Melinda Forest Station and Smitty worked at the Citrus Company of British Honduras. Both left Stann Creek in the late 60’s to work in the sugar industry up north.

LOVE FM

Western Dairies employees involved in car accident
Two employees of Western Dairies, Spanish Lookout were involved in a late-night traffic incident yesterday as they made their way back to their workplace. The incident occurred near the Blue Hole on the Hummingbird Highway and involved one of the company’s delivery trucks.

PSU will be compensated for the Hilltop property
The Public Service Union (PSU) is on a roll as there is yet another victory to report on tonight. If you recall, the union was embroiled in a battle with the Belmopan City Council and Simplex Designs Limited over the Hilltop property in Belmopan.

Unions will be compensated for deferring increments
The unions have won following an impasse with the Government of Belize over the issue of increments. The entire argument is a play on words at best but the bottom line in all this is that the unions will get their increments one way or another just not this year.

Man injured in motorcycle accident
A motorcycle accident has left a resident of Harmonyville severely injured. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz has the story.

Daughter of PC Rodriguez recollects the beating her father took
Yesterday we reported on the Police Constable who was beaten over the weekend in Camalote Village, Cayo District. The officer beaten was 39-year-old Mark Rodriguez. The incident occurred inside his yard in the presence of his 14-year-old daughter, Krystal Rodriguez. The man being accused of targeting Rodriguez is Assistant Superintendent of Police Aaron Gamboa.

Caribbean Bank gives the green light on an emergency loan for Belize
Belize has been approved for a loan of fifteen million US dollars from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The loan has been dubbed as an emergency loan and Belize is one of seven Caribbean countries to benefit.

Repatriation applications for Displaced Belizeans abroad is made available
The idea of repatriation of Belizeans is a scary thought as it means that the country runs the risk of imported cases of COVID-19. As scary as it may be though, the time has come for Belize to get its citizens back home.

BNTU concerned over July sitting of CSEC exams
The CSEC exams have been set for July as was reported by the Minister of Education, Patrick Faber. But, the Belize Teachers Union (BNTU) is concerned for their members.

Family home destroyed by freak storm in southern Belize
A family’s peace was disrupted on Sunday night when heavy rains and strong winds destroyed the home of Teresa Jackson in San Pedro, Colombia Village, Toledo District. Correspondent Paul Mahung has the story.

Breaking Belize News

Baneza Godoy is St. Ignatius High School 2020 Valedictorian
By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: Eighteen-year-old 4th former Baneza Godoy is the Valedictorian of the Graduating Class of 2020 […]

Officer reportedly stabbed at Coast Guard gym
There are reports that an officer of the Belize Coast Guard was at the gym […]

More austerity measures for government ministries
Today, in a memo to addressed to department CEOs and other public service officials, the […]

Evening division teachers at Gwen Lizarraga High School still waiting for salary
Reports to our newsdesk is that 15 teachers from the evening division at Gwen Lizarraga […]

Two months since tree topples Branch Mouth bridge, residents request repairs
The Branch Mouth bridge (Hammock bridge) at Branch Mouth in San Ignacio was destroyed on […]

Climate Resilience Organization signs agreement for marine resources in Belize
On May 14, the Government of Belize participated in a virtual conference where Small Island […]

US company Moderna says COVID-19 vaccine trials show “promising results”
Moderna, a biotech company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, announced this week that the human […]

BGYEA supports former leader Nigel Petillo
The Belize Grassroots Youth Empowerment Association (BGYEA) has condemned the arrest of its former leader […]

Hotels and resorts offer special rates targeting local tourism
Belizean officials have decided to allow hotels and resorts to re-open to provide some kind […]

Caribbean Development Bank to give Belize emergency loan of US $15 million for COVID-19 pandemic
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is making available emergency loans to seven Caribbean countries, in […]

Attorney General urges Belizeans to comply with curfew regulations
Today, on Ask the Experts, Attorney General, Micheal Peyreffitte said that last night, 48 people […]

COMPOL: Town councils have NO authority to conduct screening
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, informed yesterday that town councils do not have the […]

“Chamber of Commerce comments played no role in decision to forego increments,” says PSU
The Public Service Union (PSU) categorically rejects any notion that the comments issued by the […]

Public Service Union says acceptance of government’s proposal is conditional
The Public Service Union (PSU) said that it has accepted the Government of Belize’s proposed cost-saving […]

Three injured in traffic accident near Biscayne
A traffic accident occurred last night around 6:45 near Biscayne on the Philip Goldson highway […]

Blogs

Swimming and Open-Air Restaurants Open: Lunch at Ramon’s Village
Last week, new Statutory Instrument was released – effective Friday, May 15th – that called for a slight loosening of regulations for Belize’s current State of Emergency since the country has been COVID-free for over 30 days. The curfew remains in place, the borders remain closed but there is a bit more freedom to move about the country and get outside. Social distancing is firmly in place and masks are required. Belize is taking health VERY SERIOUSLY. A great reason to get out a bit – safely and carefully – after over 55 days mostly inside. We went to Ramon’s Village – to Pineapple Restaurant. They have SUCH a friendly staff (wearing Ramon’s branded face masks – I’m sorry! I forgot to get a picture!) and we were one of two tables. They have a smaller menu and SUPER great prices as they re-open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To get the staff slowly back working part-time.

Grand Caribe’s 4th Annual Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament
Calling all fishing anglers! Grand Caribe’s 3rd Annual DeepSea Classic Fishing Tournament will be taking place in two months. Mark your calendars for July 19th – 21st for one of the most exciting tournaments yet! The Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament to be held in Grand Caribe in Ambergris Caye. You could not ask for a more picturesque location with the Belize Barrier Reef a short distance away. The Belize Barrier Reef, stretching along the coast of Belize, is a fantastic destination for sports fishing. With Belize boasting the second largest in the world and year-round great weather, it’s no surprise avid anglers travel far and wide to try their luck out at sea.

Happiness is Underrated
There are many tips and much practical information out there on how to get through this Coronavirus Pandemic. Lately, I have noticed there has been more pandemic generosity among the island dwellers and it is spreading. I have hired a handy tour guide I trust who was out of work, to do a small job, gave masks to two friends, gave food to a family in need along with a few household items I knew would be enjoyed. I have also been receiving great gifts from friends. Everything from Bomba (mainland village) fruits and chocolate brownies, to tamarind from North Ambergris, and fresh-baked bread. The picture below is of tamarind pods, inside and seeds. As for what it tastes like I would say a cross between the inside part of a date and a sour patch kid.

The History of Corozal Town, Corozal District, Belize
The Town of Corozal was founded in 1848 by Mestizo refugees fleeing the Mayan uprising against the Spanish further north. These refugees, aligned with the Spanish, faced constant threat from Mayan attacks, and Corozal essentially became a garrison town. The brick corner supports of the formidable Fort Barlee can still be seen near the post office complex across from Corozal’s central square. For the next seven decades, Corozal Town grew steadily. The only town in British Honduras that was built in a grid-like fashion, it was known for its beauty and prosperity.

International Sources

Permit and Belize
Nick Koontz likes to fish down in Belize and explained why. "There is a fish called a Permit and most people have not heard of them but they are the hardest fish to catch in the world on a fly rod. Most people have heard of tarpon, bonefish and permit is the third one. There is some really good permit fishing down there, especially when I was going but now it has gotten a little crowded. I have been down there literally the first time I went down there I fished for seven days and caught one. If you need to boat a lot of fish, that is not the place to go.

Repurposing sport for community in Belize
This is seen in how sport is being used to respond to the pandemic in the close knit, Caribbean country of Belize. In mid-March of 2020, youth sport coaches from across Belize gathered in the country’s largest city to participate in the BAE (Belizean’s Advocating for Equity) Sports Summit 2020. Hosted by The Belize National Sports Council (NSC), Belize’s Department of Youth Services, and Northern Illinois University from the U.S., the summit focused on inspiring an open dialogue that prompted individuals and communities to take action to empower women and girls through sport.

Scholarship Opportunity for Online Graduate Studies with Universidad Internacional de la Rioja (Spain)
Available Programs include Human Rights, Education, Communication, Marketing , Finance, Human Resources, Technology and more. Language - Spanish ( Universidad Internacional de la Rioja- Spain) Deadline : August 26, 2020.

Videos

A golf cart trip through San Pedro, Belize, 3min. Headed to visit my friend Laura (and her pool) today at the beautiful PUR Boutique Cabanas! Join me for the ride as I drive through town, give a ride to someone and show off my new mask that Heather with Caye to the Heart made me!

Cayo Espanto Private island Belize, 3min. Cayo Espanto is a private island located off Belize and offers seven villas that can be rented out separately or for the ultimate in luxury and privacy – the whole island can be rented. Guests can enjoy absolute paradise and seclusion, with azure waters, sandy beaches and 5 star service.

San Pedro Belize Catamaran Snorkeling, 3min. Flying from Belize City to my home, San Pedro, Belize. Sailing, boating, snorkeling.

Journey To Mayan City of Cahal Pech in Belize, 5min. Mayan Ruins in Belize.

Peter Lawrence on ReefTV, 2hr.

Learn the numbers in the Yucatec Maya language with our borther Principe Maya, 1min.

Belize - 2018, 12min.

Investing in Nature, Investing in the Future of Belize, 3.5min. The World Bank Marine Conservation and Climate Adaptation Project (MCCAP) for Belize, implemented since 2015, aims to implement marine conservation and climate adaptation measures to strengthen the climate resilience of the Belize Barrier Reef system. This #BiodiversityDay, learn how locals are replanting coral reefs and pursuing sustainable livelihoods to ensure that Belize’s coral reef resources are preserved for generations to come.

Diving at the Great Blue Hole in Belize!, 5min. In this video, I will uncover my trip to Belize in 2018. The main purpose of the trip was to dive at the Great Blue Hole which was on my bucket list. It surely didn't disappoint!

Sunset in the Pine Savannahs of the coast, under Yellow-headed Parrots, 1min.

May 19, 2020

BWS announces extended opening hours to accommodate our valued customers

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

New construction under scrutiny; mapping department says it’s on a designated street
The construction of a residential home in the DFC Area is under scrutiny as it is reportedly being built on a designated street. One property owner in the area, Charles Godfrey, says construction has been ongoing for weeks, posing a safety hazard to his premises and affecting his home/property value as well. The house being erected is alleged to be that of Joel Chi. Godfrey’s attorney, Wendy Auxillou, confirmed that a stop order was approved and issued, but construction continues at press time.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Tuesday, May 19th meal pick ups Location: Food Republic Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30pm.

SP Belize Express Water Taxi to Build Boat Terminal
This is not rocket science is it There was a Custom Ferry Terminal Built specifically to house the Ferrys on the island and once it was completed ALL ferries were supposed to move to the back because as the Island grew it was impossible to have the ferrys operating on the front in town for many reasons. 7 Million Dollars was spent so the front of the island could be less congested, less golf carts, less taxi's etc.

San Pedro Town Council: Attention Owners Of Derelict Or Abandoned Vehicles!
The San Pedro Town Council and the San Pedro Traffic Department on their on going effort in keeping La Isla Bonita clean, hereby inform the general public that we will be identifying all derelict and/or abandoned vehicles, and removing them from the island. Vehicle owners will have a 14-day period (May 18 - June 1, 2020) to remove any derelict or abandoned vehicle(s). After the 14-day period, the San Pedro Town Council will be removing these vehicles at the last registered owner's expense. Vehicle owners are reminded that ALL vehicles must be registered and licensed with the San Pedro Traffic Department, failure to do so could result in the vehicle being impounded and or removed from the island.

Art Contest
Do you love to Paint? How about Sketching? Here is a cool contest for our Artist Age Group 13 -15 years old! This "From My Home" Art Contest will focus on your artistic talent and creativity in 2 Separate Areas - Painting and Sketching. This contest is offering 2 Entries . Paint Artist - You can choose to submit a photo of your Painting done with either - Water, Acrylic , or Oil Paints - you can choose ANY material to create your art work . For example- standard paint canvas, bottles glass or plastic , wood , cloth fabric, bristol or construction paper , absolutely anything you can put your painting on ! For our Sketchers - Pencil ( not colour) or Charcoal ONLY. Sketching Surfaces - Sketch Paper, Plain Print Paper, Bristol Board. Open to artist from all districts in Belize. Our selected winner will have the chance to receive a little treat from our sponsors. All submissions will be displayed on our Facebook page and will be judged by our Art Team. Remember everyone is a winner when it comes to Art!

The Downtown Rejuvenation Project's Ecomuseum Update
The Downtown Rejuvenation Project like many other projects was on a break due to the COVID-19 shutdown. As the country starts to awaken from its economic sleep, so is the Downtown Rejuvenation Project. As an update, below is a quick recap of the various components’ status in the Downtown Rejuvenation Project:

The Artists of the Day, YATA
Youth Advocacy Through Arts "YATA", was established in 2013 and is perhaps the only Youth Theatre Company active in Belize. The group currently has 6 productions in their repertoire since inception. Initially, a social arts organization with plays that highlight issues affecting marginalized communities, the company has evolved into cultural development through the arts. The composition of its members ranges from students to young professionals, who have already begun careers.

Call To Action: Please Sign This Petition!
A while back, Ruby's Hotel was sold to the owners of the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi - a company and service that I use all the time, recommend and like very much. They now plan to knock down the Ruby's Hotel site - the old wooden building at the south corner of Front Street, San Pedro - and build a large water taxi terminal at the busiest intersection in a WILDLY busy town. Aside from being busy for traffic - the largest school on the island, the San Pedro RC Elementary School is just across the street with about 1000 kids between the ages of 5 and teen. A water taxi terminal brings boat traffic, taxis, hotel pick up, traffic, salespeople... This town, already at the breaking point when it comes to foot and cart, van traffic will...break. I have vowed to stop taking the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi going forward. Here's is a petition (that was created by others) to tell the TOWN COUNCIL AND OUR MINISTER OF TOURISM that this cannot be allowed. If you agree that this should be stopped and that the water Taxi company should use the $6mm+ water taxi terminal built just a few years back (as celebrated by our minister of Tourism), please sign attached.

Belize Zoo Soft Re-opening May 23rd & 24th
The Belize Zoo will be having a soft re-opening to the public on Saturday and Sunday May 23rd & 24th only- info below! - Opening hours will be from 9am to 4pm, with last admission at 3:15pm. - Admission for this weekend will be $7BZ for adults and $2BZ for children (ages 3-12) - The Harpy Cafe will be open for takeaway food orders, and limited open-air dining by reservation (contact 625-3604)...

"Strategic Planning for Tour Operators" Webinar
Reminder: The next webinar, "Strategic Planning for Tour Operators," is scheduled to take place on May 22, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. Kindly register here: https://bit.ly/2XbaWyv

Belizean Arts Announces Annual Children’s Art Competition
“We would like to announce our very first annual children’s art competition. We are taking this opportunity to reach out to you children at home. We know you have more time on your hands and we would like to inspire you to use your imagination and creativity. Many of the successful Belizean artist we represent started right at home. Sketching on paper, carving a piece of wood and even beading a bracelet. This year it will be done virtually and we are asking for a painting, drawing or sketch.” Submission Date: May 14th - May 28th

Repatriation for Displaced Belizeans Abroad
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR DISPLACED BELIZEANS ABROAD. If you are a Belizean who has been unable to return home to Belize due to the closure of our borders as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you will now be able to do so BUT with prior coordination and approval with the Government of Belize. From Monday, 18 May 2020, displaced Belizeans can visit the website and complete the application form and the COVID-19 Screening Application. These MUST be completed and submitted electronically in order for you to be considered for a coordinated return to Belize. A link to the forms will also be available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website at www.mfa.gov.bz.

THE SAD OF MAYA
One day the animals approached a Mayan and said, " We don't want to see you sad, ask us what you want and you'll have it. The Mayan said :-I want to be happy. The owl replied, - Who knows what happiness is? Ask us for more human things. "Well added the man," I want to have a good view. The buzzard said to him,-You'll have mine. - I want to be strong. The jaguar said to him,-You'll be strong like me. - I want to walk without getting tired.

Job opportunities for principals
Two vacancies available for principals, one at San Marcos Village as Teaching Principal and one in Bullet Tree at Immaculate Conception as Administrative Principal. Interviews will be held at the Kostekie Hall at Sacred Heart Parish on Wednesday May 27th from 9:00 am to 12 noon, valid teaching license is a must. All interested parties kindly take note.

Applications open for CXC Supervisors and Invigilators
Just in case you missed this great opportunity to be a part of the 2020 CXC Belize invigilators team! Click the link below to apply now!

Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation Job Portal
Create Vacancies. Apply for Jobs. Make connections. Explore the Job Portal today! Visit tourism.gov.bz/jobportal/ and discover the possibilities.

YUUMTSILO'OB
Úuchben nukuch máako’ob (The ancient lords) This are not "Gods" but the manifestation of every human action ,aspects of life and nature : Birth,Death,ball game,gambling,traveling ,trading,Pregnant human,rain,creator,Corn etc . The Yuumstilo'ob are what makes the world move and life to continue .

BTB LAUNCHES 2020 BELIZEAN TRAVELLER CAMPAIGN
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) today made a soft launch of its 2020 Belizean Traveller Campaign marking the reopening of the local tourism industry after a two-month hiatus due to COVID 19. The campaign comes on the heels of Government’s official announcement of the relaxation of certain security regulations under the National State of Emergency, which now allows Belizeans to, under certain conditions and while still observing social distancing, be able to visit various tourism destinations throughout the country to enjoy our beaches and swimming and the various natural attractions in Belize.

Channel 7

Petillo's Land Grab For The People Draws Crowd
We haven't seen a mass gathering in months. But on Sunday morning, a crowd descended on Cotton Tree village. They had been called by land activist Nigel Petillo who summoned them out of lockdown with the promise of an acre each for any man or woman willing to clear it. But as expected police and health officials quickly deemed the large group a threat to public health, and not just for the village but the entire nation.

COMPOL Says Nigel's Crowd Was Against SOE Regs.
And while Petillo was charged for a mask violation, the commissioner of police says he could have been charged for a whole lot more. This afternoon, Police Commissioner Chester Williams appeared on "Ask the Experts". He discussed the mass gathering in Cotton Tree spearheaded by Petillo and said Petillo and the other organizers lured attendants to his public meeting into a situation where they violated social distancing and State of Emergency rules:

Nigel Says He Was Watching His Back, Not The Crowd
And while the Commissioner says that's the process to go through - Petillo says the process he was going through, was hide and seek with the police. He told us he was dodging arrest and couldn't count the crowd: "I personally don't know how many people were there because to tell you the truth I had to be hiding from the police for a while so I was in the jungle for quite some time..."

Boat Crash At Caye
There was a boating accident yesterday evening at the San Pedro International Marine Terminal. A 25-foot vessel crashed into the wooden wharf of the terminal. At around 5:45 p.m., 35-year-old Horace Bladen, a tour guide from Belize City, was the captain of this vessel, which is registered to Searious Adventure Tours. His passengers onboard included 54-year-old Sandra McLean, the owner of the tour company; 24-year-old Roy Bradley; Celestino Campos, and Jose Lopez.

PSU Capitulates To GOB, Agrees To Forego Increment, For Now
Last week, we told you about the stern press release that the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry sent out scolding the unions for haggling over an increment when the economy is in meltdown and the private sector is taking heavy losses. The unions and the Government can't agree on how to not pay this year's annual increment. Government wants to forego it, the unions want it deferred. Both sides met last Wednesday and agreed on a compromise, but, by Thursday mornings, the unions allegedly changed the language of the compromise, and government then said the deal was off.

Constable Vs ASP in Ugly Tangle
A Police Constable is claiming to be a victim of police brutality. On Saturday night, Mark Rodriguez says he was on his way to pick up his wife after her shift at the Belmopan Hospital when he claims police beat him up at the behest of a senior ASP Aaron Gamboa. Gamboa though, has a very different take on the situation: he says he pulled Rodriguez over after reports that the PC was drunk and driving recklessly after the curfew hour. We spoke to both men today and got two distinct accounts on the events that lead to an arrest, 6 charges, and a possible discharge for PC Rodriguez.

Fishy Business Eena Kinel
This morning, a group Belize City residents living East and West Canal Streets in Belize City called our newsroom to investigate some fishy business. They say that for a few days now, the waters of the canal have been stifling them with the stench of dead fish that are now trapped in it. These residents say that they've been living with the awful smell since last week Wednesday. After inspecting the length of the canal for themselves, they say that someone loaded up a pile of clay in the canal.

CDB Comes Through With COVID Relief Funds
So far, Belize's costly COVID-19 response has received not a single dollar of international funding. The Prime Minister says he hopes 6 million plus from the IDB will come at the end of this month. Well, the Caribbean Development Bank has announced that it will also contribute. A release says the CDB is making emergency loans to seven Caribbean countries for a total of $66.7 million US dollars. Antigua and Barbuda will get US$13 million, Belize will get US$15 million, Dominica will get US$2.5 million, Grenada will get US$5.9 million, Saint Lucia, US$10.8 million, St. Vincent and the Grenadines US$11.3 million, and Suriname US$8.2 million.

Over 1,300 Arrested For SOE Violations Since March
Today on Ask The Experts, Commissioner of police Chester Williams discussed the ongoing State of Emergency arrests that have been ongoing since March. In the two months since, more than one thousand persons have been arrested: Dorian Pakeman, Government Press Office: "How many people have been charged so far in relation to state of emergency violations?" Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police: "It's around one thousand three hundred."

COMPOL Answers Critics On Jules Non-Arrest
And not included in those 1,300 arrestees is our News Director Jules Vasquez. For the past few days some on facebook have been demanding that the commissioner arrest him after he was caught on camera without a mask when he responded to the street side arrest of Raymond Rivers. When asked about it today, Commissioner Williams said he was not there, but did speak with the officers who were:

Adversity and Advantage For Police During SOE
Commissioner Williams also spoke about the challenges and advantages of policing crime during a state of emergency: "We continue our anti-crime operations and campaign across the country all with a view to ensure that we minimize the occurrences of criminal activities. I know that you have been told that there was an armed robbery over the weekend I think in Valley of Peace where the gas station was robbed and I can say that 3 of the suspects are in custody for that matter..."

Police And The Porous Border
And, policing borders is much more complex because - as we have been reporting - illegals are constantly trickling across north, south, and west... "One of the greatest challenge is the fact that the border is extremely big in terms of length particularly between Belize and Guatemala as well as the portion with Belize and Mexico and we must also bear in mind that we also have the maritime border with Honduras and so we are bordering 3 countries where the spread of the Corona Virus is somewhat rampant..."

COMPOL: Local Gov't Should Stay Out of Police Work
But when it comes to policing and screening water taxi passengers - Commissioner Williams says that is the job of police, not town constables. As we told you on Friday, the San Pedro town board had its constables screening persons getting on board the water taxi. An exasperated compol said this is plainly illegal:

Works Truck Flies Off Road At Mile 30
No one was seriously hurt when a Government pickup flew off the highway and ended up resting vertically atop a ditch this afternoon. It happened between miles 30 and 31, at about 1:30 pm when the white Chevy Colorado pickup truck assigned to the Ministry of works was hit. That caused driver, 32-year-old Anthony Leslie to lose control, slide off the road and crash into the ditch.

Some Drinks With Your Food Allowed, Not Vice-Versa
The state of emergency regulations were again adjusted today. That's after this weekend when the government monitors of social behaviour - whoever they are - observed the consumption of food with alcohol at newly re-opened outdoor restaurants. Seems they saw some people eating with their drinks, rather than the other way around. The attorney general said you can have a drink or two with your meal, but don't get carried away. Here's how the AG put it on Ask the Experts:

Holders OF Public Special License Sell Food, Not Drink
And so now, here's the change: those establishments with a public special license - which are usually bars - can now open up - but they have to sell food, and that food has to be the main attraction - not the drinks. Here's the AG: "If you hold a publican special license you will be able to open, but you must operate as if though you are a restaurant. So even though you can open and you have a publican special license for now you can only serve you liquor with food..."

How Can Cops Count Your Drinks?
Now, this one drink before, and one drink after your meal really is a bit much to expect police to enforce, isn't it. I mean, are they supposed to watch you eat, and count your drinks. We asked the COMPOL about the difficulty of enforcement:

Sites For Sore Eyes
Another change in the regulations effective today iOS that archaeological sites can re-open and licensed tour guides can take you there. Here is how the AG put it:

Busted 16 Pounds of Weed
On Friday morning, police conducting a search for illegal firearms ended up making a sizeable weed bust. It happened at about 5:30 a.m. at the home of 32-year old Dale Saragoza at mile 21/2 on the George Price Highway.

The BDF Bungled With Mexicans Escaping From Quarantine
On Friday's news, we told you about the 3 Mexicans from Xcalac, who escaped from quarantine. That's after the Coast Guard caught them conducting illegal fishing in the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve. They were supposed to have been in quarantine for 21 days, after which they would face criminal charges for immigration offenses, as well as illegal fishing. But, somehow, all 3 men were able to evade the authorities who were in charge of the ITVET building Corozal, which was being used as that municipalitiy's quarantine center.

Cop Got A Grip In Guinea Grass
Another topic that the public wanted his input on was that cell phone video out of Guinea Grass Village in the Orange Walk District. As we showed you on Friday, a police officer was recorded have a moment with a young-unmasked civilian from the Village.

Compol On Continuing Curfew
During that same webcast, one of the viewers then asked the Police Commissioner to explain the rationale behind keeping the curfews in place.

Gangs Slowed Down after SOE
Several weeks before the State of Emergency was implemented for COVID-19, the Police and the Government implemented the SOUTHSIDE State of Emergency for 8 areas of Belize City. You'll remember that it was a response to that 48-hour crime wave, which resulted in 6 murders, including the killings of the two 5-year-olds, Kia Herbert and Dominique Rhamdas.

Channel 5

35 Days Since Belize Has Recorded Positive Case of COVID-19
It’s day thirty-five since Belize has recorded a positive case of COVID-19, but the Ministry of Health remains on alert as border communities in neighbouring Central American countries continue spiking. [...]

Restaurants Resume On-Premises Dining, but Al Fresco
Restaurants resumed on-premises dining on Saturday but the hospitality industry is looking a whole lot different. The use of the face mask by diners and employees is a must and [...]

Statutory Instrument 72 Amended
And while some restaurants were able to begin to operate over the weekend, there is another category of restaurant-style businesses that will have to adapt to the regulations. According to [...]

Pet and Arthur Saldivar Charged After BGYEA Land Meeting in Cotton Tree
A crowd of persons showed up at mile forty-four on the George Price Highway on Sunday, lured by the promise of a piece of land. Nigel Petillo, of the Belize [...]

Locked Up With No Means of Adhering to Social Distancing
So while Petillo and his attorney were both arraigned this morning for matters having to do with social distancing, use of face masks and movement outside of the curfew, their [...]

P.S.U. Rethinks Its Position on Increment Agreement
While there has been no official word on whether a deal has been reached, the Public Service Union has re-examined its view of the use of the word “defer” in [...]

P.S.U. Optimistic About Economic Recovery
According to Flowers, a formula will be devised to calculate what each public officer will receive in gratuity at the point of retirement which will also factor in what they [...]

Rivers of White Ash in the Vaca Forest
Friends for Conservation and Development, F.C.D., has been battling for the preservation and conservation of Belize’s forest to the west for many years. For the past few weeks, the environmental [...]

Guatemalan Farmer Caught Illegally Farming in Belize
F.C.D. has had to take up the responsibility of arresting encroachers and manning the forest to keep it from disappearing. In his article, Rath asks the question, ‘where is our [...]

Displaced Belizeans Can Return Home but With G.O.B.’s Approval
The government is making provisions to allow Belizeans in other countries who have been displaced by the COVID-19 pandemic to return home by the end of May. The COVID-19 Controlled [...]

Why Wasn’t Jules Vasquez Not Charge for Failure to Wear Face Mask in Public?
As you heard earlier in the news, Nigel Petillo and his attorney Arthur Saldivar have been charged with S.O.E. violations, including a charge for not wearing a mask in public. [...]

Police Officers Fight to Detain a Drunk Colleague in Camalote
There was a scuffle on Saturday night involving a team of police officers attempting to arrest a colleague, who was reportedly drunk and acting unruly while being apprehended. The incident [...]

Ministry of Works Employees Critically Injured in RTA
A road traffic mishap along the George Price Highway just outside of Mahogany Heights has left a pair of men, both employees of the Ministry of Works, critically injured. Sometime [...]

Boat Crashes into San Pedro Pier; 2 Persons are Injured
There was another accident, but this one at sea. Two persons were injured during a boat accident on Sunday evening in San Pedro. After six o’clock on Sunday, police were [...]

Motorcycle Goes Up in Flames on Philip Goldson Highway
A delivery man from Atlantic Restaurant on the Philip Goldson Highway escaped with his life on Sunday afternoon after the motorcycle he was travelling on suddenly combusted. Robert Thomas was [...]

Commissioner of Police Warns San Pedro Town Council, Again
For a second time in recent weeks, the San Pedro Town Council is at odds with the state of emergency regulations. Weeks ago, the town council announced measures to be [...]

Tacos Vendors Can Sell from Home
Commissioner Chester Williams also took some time to speak on food vendors, who sell items such as the all time favorite tacos and barbecues. Vending is not allowed, but the [...]

The Rules on Social Events at Home
And while vendors are now given some leeway to operate from their house, you are allowed to have a social event at your house. But there is one big restriction, [...]

Police and B.D.F. Soldiers Patrolling Borders for Border Jumpers
Guatemala and Mexico are registering an increasing number of positive COVID-19 cases and while our borders are closed, the threat of a spill to this side of the border is [...]

Archeological Sites Now Open for Business
Statutory Instrument seventy-two was amended to also allow archeological sites to open in an effort to encourage domestic tourism. This will permit Belizeans to travel across the country to undertake [...]

Couple Charged for 16 Pounds of Weed
Two persons, charged jointly in connection with the discovery of sixteen pounds of marijuana, today appeared in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court where they were granted and met bail in the [...]

Mark Gentle Charged with Dangerous Harm
Also in the Magistrate’s Court, a man, who is accused of attacking and stabbing another man last month, was charged and arraigned with Dangerous Harm. But he is home tonight, [...]

Over 1,300 Persons Charged So Far for S.O.E. Violations
For more than a month now, Belize has not reported any new COVID-19 cases, but a state of emergency remains in place until June and a curfew is in place [...]

Police ID Machine Down
A complaint was made to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams during his time on Ask the Experts today. According to the complainant, who is a Benque Viejo resident, plain clothes [...]

The Reporter

Couple Nabbed With 16 Lbs of Weed
A couple who live at Mile 2 1/2 on the George Price Highway today appeared in the Belize City Magistrate's Court on Monday where they were formally arraigned for possession of 16 pounds of marijuana. Dale Saragosa, 32, and Sharen Thompson, 19, are charged with Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to Supply Another after a search at their house last week Thursday resulted in the discovery of the drug.

Digicel files bankruptcy before Bermuda courts
Regional telecommunications giant Digicel has filed for bankruptcy before the Bermuda courts, but it insists that its day-to-day operations will not be affected by the filing. The bankruptcy filing involves the appointment of three provisional liquidators from KPMG, the global services company. Coming days after the company implemented a group-wide salary reduction, the move is being seen as part of Digicel’s attempt to restructure US$1.6 billion of its estimated US$7 billion debt.

Traffic accident on the George Price Highway near Mahogany Heights
There are reports of a traffic accident on the George Price Highway near Mahogany Heights, involving what appears to be a Government-issued vehicle. Sources say that officials have not arrived on the scene as yet. There also appears to be persons trapped inside the vehicle.

LOVE FM

Officer allegedly attacked by one of his own
A police constable was beaten over the weekend in rural Cayo District. The allegations are that the assault against 39-year-old Mark Rodriguez has to do with a dispute over land in Camalote Village that was passed down to his wife, Krista Zelaya.

Archaeological sites and water-based locations reopen
The Statutory Instrument was amended today and reflects some minor changes in regulations. One of those amendments now includes the reopening of archaeological sites and water-based locations including but not limited to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Valley of Peace farmers have their first market day
Covid-19, albeit an alarming pandemic, has brought on many positive and creative ideas. Students and teachers are learning to transition from the traditional classroom setting to online schooling.

Police officers continue to enforce the wearing of masks and social distancing within the public
Potential imported cases are not the only issue being monitored by the police. The regulations to wear masks and the practice of social distancing is also being monitored by the authorities.

Robbers overturn while fleeing crime scene
On Saturday evening, four armed masked men reportedly robbed the Valley Gas Station in Valley of Peace Village, Cayo District. They got away with an undisclosed amount of money and surveillance camera videos.

The illegalities of the Cotton Tree land
Under the State of Emergency regulations, gatherings of more than ten persons are disallowed, making yesterday’s meeting in Cotton Tree Village, Cayo District highly illegal. The criticism was that land activist, Nigel Petillo, put the lives of Belizeans at risk by organizing the meeting during a pandemic.

Illegal gathering over land disrupted by police
Land Activist Nigel Petillo is leading the charge to assist Belizean farmers in acquiring land in Cotton Tree Village, Cayo District. We took you to the land site in question on Wednesday and there and then the residents had agreed to meet again on Sunday morning.

Guatemalan man caught sneaking into the country
Aside from the borders being porous they are also miles long, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to monitor. As we noted earlier today, one Guatemalan man was caught sneaking into the country earlier today but there could be many who were not caught.

Belizeans abroad anxiously waiting to come home
Screening applications for repatriation for Belizeans living abroad were to be made available today. There has been a slight delay and our newsroom was told that the forms will be made available within the next day or two.

Ease of regulations lead to an increase in persons being arrested
Since the State of Emergency was declared in March Police have arrested one thousand three hundred persons for going contrary to the Covid-19 regulations. In recent weeks arrests have increased with the ease in those regulations.

Belize remains COVID free with numbers surging in surrounding countries
It has been thirty-five days since Belize reported its last confirmed case of Covid-19. Since the first case was confirmed on March 20, 2020, there have only been eighteen cases to date with two turning fatal and sixteen patients recovered.

Breaking Belize News

COMPOL says gang members are behaving well
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams said on Ask the Experts today that the young men […]

Guillermo Foreman in quarantine; to be charged
Belizean Guillermo Foreman who had been stranded for days at the Northern Border was detained […]

Police say officers used discretion in not detaining Jules Vasquez
On Thursday morning, police responded to reports of a group of people gathered near Channel […]

ComPol warns social gatherings still not allowed
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams informed today on Ask the Experts that social gatherings […]

Establishments with Public and Special license can now open; only serve liquor with food
The Attorney General, Micheal Peyreffite explained today that establishments that hold a public and special […]

Archeological sites allowed to open
The Attorney General, Micheal Peyreffitte informed today on Ask the Experts that a new statutory […]

Government vehicle involved in traffic accident
BBN has received reports of a road traffic accident on the George Price Highway near […]

FCD outlines causes for recent fires in Vaca Forest Reserve
Photojournalist and member of the board of Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) Tony Rath has […]

Ordinary Belizeans demand voice through land ownership
Can Nigel Petillo of the Belize Grassroots Youth Empowerment Association (BGYEA) turn the trick again […]

Tropic Air expands domestic flights between San Pedro, Caye Caulker and Belize City
Tropic Air announces that effective today, Monday, May 18 the company is adding service days […]

Drawing contest- “ Este es mi Mexico”
The Embassy of Mexico in Belize announced the open call for this year’s children’s drawing […]

Arthur Saldivar charged with taking off mask in police station
Belmopan police have charged attorney Arthur Saldivar with not wearing his mask in public after […]

CXC – Examine This
By Lisa Shoman:“Why is CXC so resolute in its admission of only a paper one examination, when it no longer yields any tangible benefit?” […]

Blogs

It All Evens Out In The Wash
Join Mary Yarbrough and Bill Yarbrough for a fun freestyle story, a complimentary Belize vacation, and find out what it cost to hire a truck with 3 guys to get a washer-dryer moved.

Oceana x Tiburon Rum
Guest Writer, David Alex Courtenay, spoke to Tiburon Rum's Basil DeStefano about his partnership with Oceana and the journey that led him to not only his love for Belize, but also his desire to protect this jewel's natural wealth through one of his loves - rum!

CCJ ACADEMY WEBINAR
Did you know that the CCJ Academy for Law's webinar tomorrow is completely FREE to the public? Be sure to view via the CCJ's Facebook page, UWI TV's website or UWI TV's Facebook page so you won't miss out.

International Museum Day Spotlight: A look at the U Chan Muul Yaax K’aax (Little Mound in the Green Forest) Museum during Covid-19
In Belize, there are many community-based museums contributing to this overall effort. In this segment of our Heritage at Home Series, we feature the compelling story of U Chan Muul YaaxK’aax. Nestled away in the quaint village of San Lazaro, Orange Walk District, Belize, the U Chan Muul Yaax K’aax Museum is a hidden treasure. As a member of the Museum Association of Belize, this community-supported resource center fuses tangible and intangible cultural heritage elements to tell the story of the Maya Mestizo communities of Northern Belize. We interviewed Mr. Hugo Carrillo, one of its founders to hear more about the Museum, its development, their work, and how it has been impacted by Covid-19.

International Sources

Government of Belize credits ground-breaking technology for halting COVID-19
Despite the large numbers in neighbouring countries in its largest tourism market, including the U.S., Belize has had a total of 18 and no new case since April 13th. The government says, this has not been by accident and it’s due to the early steps it took to manage the disease by quickly closing borders, bolstering its medical capacity, implementing a State of Emergency and by closely managing the population’s movements with an ever-evolving set of laws that were changed at a moment’s notice to suit the situation as it unfolded. But, one of the least known factors that assisted greatly in achieving this positive outcome, is the use of technology to manage the crisis, and the use of real-time data for decision-making by health and other senior authorities.

Belize, A&B, SV&G to Get Lion’s Share of CDB Rescue Loan Package
Financial assistance to the tune of US$13 million is coming to Antigua and Barbuda in a bid to ease the nation through the economic fallout triggered by Covid-19. The emergency loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is one of seven being given to nations in the region to help stave off recession. St. Kitts and Nevis has not applied for such funding. The Bank’s board of directors has also approved US$15 million for Belize, US$11.3 million for St Vincent and the Grenadines, US$10.8 million for St Lucia, US$8.2 million for Suriname, US$5.9 million for Grenada and US$2.5 million for Dominica.

Central America allied against the Coronavirus COVID-19
The COVID-19 crisis has demonstrated the importance of preparedness and the coordination capacities of national and regional disaster risk management agencies. The notes below includes good practices and lessons learned from Central America and the Dominican Republic. The promotion of regional and cross-border cooperation mechanisms is essential for effective, multisectoral and coordinated management of the pandemic from a disaster risk reduction approach.

GraceKennedy's pre-tax profit up 50% in Q1
While classifying the first quarter of this year as a period of great uncertainty, the GraceKennedy Group is announcing that results for the period have been the highest in recent times. In the US, displaced hospital workers have been given meals and products by the Grace Foods team, while in Belize and UK, products have been donated to the Belize Mental Health Association, the Brixton Soup Kitchen, and The National Health Service.

Videos

COVID-19 explanation, 12min. his Jamaican Doctor/Physician, I don't yet get his name but he gives the best explanation of this covid19 virus. He talk straight, holds back nothing

, min.

Monday's "Ask the Experts", min. Joining us was the Hon. Michael Peyrefitte followed by the Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams.

Azbel Alvarenga Poetry Reading, 1.5min. This past Saturday night Belize Festival of Arts shone the light on 5 year old Azbel Alvarenga of Patchakan R. C. School. Check out this adorable poetry recital! And thank you to Azbel for taking the challenge to create and submit! Children and youth can still submit throughout the month of May. For more information, visit the National Festival of Arts fb page.

Paul the howler monkey with head trauma enjoying figs, 1/2min. Paul the Howler Monkey is doing well. Brief patient update and ode to the happiness of finding the right food for the individual (knowing that anorexia can be a huge challenge in wildlife rehabilitation) with this video of Paul the howler monkey with head trauma enjoying figs. He has come a long way from his dire prognosis on intake, but because of his temporal skull injury he is still very dysbalanced. He climbs and has returned to full avoidance of any human contact, but he walks like a drunk :( After 2.5 weeks it is obvious that he will likely need months to recover enough physical abilities to become a candidate for release back into the wild. As medical treatments have concluded BWRC is fortunate to be able to transfer Paul to the primate program by Wildtracks for further rehabilitation, conditioning and eventual release.

The Ozzy Show, 43min.

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen, 4min. Wonderful charity work from the Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen

Affectionate nurse shark follows scuba diver like a lost puppy, .5min. Big Sexy is a world famous scuba dive master who leads his clients on explorations deep below the surface. Famous for his underwater bubblering demonstrations, he is a popular and entertaining dive master. But he is also very well known for his love for the animals of the reef. As if they sense that he is a gentle soul, they seem to interact well with him as he swims along. This small nurse shark was a perfect example. Possibly hoping for a meal, or possibly just curious, he took a serious liking for Big Sexy and followed him closely for almost an hour. At one point, the shark came up over a small coral head and swam up underneath Big Sexy. Slightly startled by the closeness, he jumps slightly but recovers immediately and he can’t help but reach out to give the shark a little pat.

Here's Roni Martinez on Bird Week, 60min.

La Horqueta is the scary story for today, 6min. HORROR MONDAYS: oral legends, ghosts, spirits and other chilling stories. 1925, no electricity in Benque Viejo and under the light of the moon and los farolitos, many encountered spirits wondering about. This is the story of "La Horqueta" by Ms Elvira de la Fuente...

Scuba Diving In Belize, 20min.

Spearfishing Lionfish in Belize - ReefCI, 25min. Lionfish are an invasive species in the Atlantic Ocean. I had an opportunity to spear lionfish and fillet them. It was a great experience to be part of the ReefCI conservation.

J & SONS XTREME PROMOTIONAL VIDEO, 1.5min.

Acción Deportiva Sports Action, 28min.

BTB Customer Service Essentials webinar, 66min.

International Museum Day, 4.5min. In Belize we are blessed with diverse cultures and at our Maya Museum we are inclusive becuase we strongly support Museums for Equality. We embrace everyone especially our elders, on the other hand our future generations have a long journey, but without a sound knowledge that road will be a challenge. Therefore our museum is a stepping stone to that journey.

Director of the Museum of Belize and Houses of Culture International Museum Day 2020 Address, .5min.

May 18, 2020

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Boat Accident!
A boat with approximately five passengers crashed into the dock of the San Pedro International Water Taxi Terminal after 6PM on Sunday, May 17th. All passengers were assisted and taken to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Unofficial reports are that one person was severely injured. We will have an update when an official report is made available.

Doctor Love: Doing the right thing
Dear Doctor Love, My daughter and her boyfriend have come to my husband and me to ask if he can move into our house until he graduates school next year. I feel bad for this boy. His home life is filled with abuse and rage from an alcoholic father and his older brothers are known as drug dealers. This young man is trying to escape an awful environment and I’d like to give him the chance of a better future but I worry it will blow up in our faces. What if we allow him to come here and they break up? How do we handle the drama that will come with that? Do we throw him out?

2020 Turtle Nesting Season Begins
The beaches of northern Ambergris Caye are once again visited by sea turtles as the 2020 nesting season has officially started. Personnel from the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) are monitoring the northern beaches where five nests have been found so far. As such, in order for a successful turtle nesting season, they ask the general public who visit northern Ambergris Caye to be extra cautious and to not interfere with any potential nests when transiting along the coast.

Ambergris Today

Serious Injury in Boat Accident!
It is being reported that one person has sustained serious injuries that he received during a boat accident at occurred just before sunset today, May 17, 2020 in the lagoon side of Ambergirs Caye. Reports are that a boat carrying five passengers crashed into the San Pedro International Water Taxi Terminal. Rickilee Response and Rescue services assisted other locals in the recovery and transportation of the those involved in the accident to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II. It appears that two boars were racing. Witnesses saw the boat pass under speed and another boat was ahead of them under speed as well.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Monday, May 18th Meal pick ups Location: Bondi Bar and Bistro Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45 am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30 pm. Keep those containers and bags coming. thanks!

COVID-19 update:
This is the regional update as numbers continue to rise in countries all around. Costa Rica and Nicaragua are the two countries who don’t seem to have significant increases in their numbers as all aim to contain their epidemic curve. We all remain vigilant under new norms.

Wildtracks update: It takes a team!
After several days of frustrating near misses, the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) led a successful rescue of a young manatee entangled in fishing net. The net was wrapped over its nose, and wound around its flipper, cutting in and causing significant damage. The male manatee, 1.95m in length was successfully captured and the net removed. He is now at Wildtracks for wound treatment and observation, but we are hoping that, with care, the flipper will be saved and he will soon be able to return to the wild.

Bird Week kicks off today
Roni Martinez will be kicking off Bird Week tomorrow virtually. Birding Nation, here's one to add to your list for this week. Because every great week has birds in it! No sign up/registration required, just watch live on Facebook Starts at 6:00pm. https://bit.ly/CayoCal

Belize Emergency Relief
The Belize Emergency Relief feeding program has helped more than 4000 people at this point, and they are now providing more than just the basics. Thanks to everyone involved in this incredible effort.

Episode 1 - The TBT Hour
Allan Di Real McCoy will be mixing some oldies on Tuesday night. May 19, 2020 at 8 PM – 9 PM

Yuum Cimil
Yuum Cimil is the representation of death which is part of the cycle of human life . Death is not the end but the transformation of the body and the Pixan (Soul). Us Yucatec Maya(Máasewal) of Belize put altars especially for U Janal Pixano'ob (Finados) to honor our family and friends who are on the spiritual world . Note: Yuum Cimil is also known as Ah Puch , Ah Cizin, Hun Ahau or Kimi . Yuum Cimil means Señor muerte (Lord of death).

Culture Day - Feb 1, 2019 Students
Thank you to teachers everywhere today and every day for fostering curiosity, creativity, culture, kindness, and caring (as well as all the curriculum). Together we can make the world a better place. A few images from last year's culture day at Isla Bonita Elementary School.

Channel 5

A motorcycle caught on fire on the Philip Goldson Highway
Fire officials were called to the scene to extinguish the fire.

Attorney Arthur Saldivar arrested
Attorney Arthur Saldivar was arrested by Belmopan police earlier today. We are told that Saldivar visited the Belmopan Police Station after word was received that police were looking for him for being part of a group that gathered in Cotton Tree Village. We are also told that he allegedly did not have a face mask when he was in the station.

Nigel Petillo Arrested

The Reporter

Attorney Arthur Saldivar to be charged for not wearing mask
The Reporter has confirmed that attorney Arthur Saldivar has been detained by Belmopan Police. Sources say that he was being sought for his presence at a gathering in Cotton Tree this morning in the company of Nigel Petillo. There is word that he will also be charged because when he showed up at the Belmopan Police Station he was not wearing a mask.

"Abandoned" land claimed
Hundreds of Belizeans have gathered at what is said to be a 2600acre (abandoned) parcel of land in Cotton Tree outside of Belmopan. Similar to what was done in Harmonyville several years ago, these persons are being encouraged by private citizen Nigel Petillo to claim parcels of land which he says has been abandoned for decades by a foreigner. The Ministry of Natural Resources has warned about the illegality of squatting on land but that has not deterred the hundreds, machetes and hoes in hand, who are gathered to claim land.

LOVE FM

Breaking Belize News

Rihanna puts the Caribbean on the map again! Becomes Britain’s wealthiest female musician
With one successful venture after another, Barbados-born music icon Rihanna has repeatedly put the Caribbean […]

“$2.2 million a month in allowances is too much,” says PSU
The Government of Belize (GOB) spends a total of $2.2 million a month on allowances […]

Motorcycle goes up in flames on highway
A motorcycle went up in flames this evening on the Philip Goldson Highway in the […]

Several injured in mile 8 traffic accident, no fatalities
Several people received minor injuries in an accident at mile 8 on the George Price […]

Firearm search leads to drug bust
Police have arrested and charged two people for drug offenses following a search initially geared […]

Police find gun and drugs in separate locations
The Belize Police Department’s operations led to the recovery of a gun and drugs in […]

Harmonyville land activist, Nigel Petillo, detained by Police
Photo Courtesy: PGTV Belmopan-based land activist Nigel Petillo has been detained by police, who picked him […]

Belizeans abroad being allowed to come home
Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home. And for Belizeans locked out of […]

Police disperse crowded mass gathering at Cotton Tree property
Having been unable to convince Nigel Petillo not to hold it, law enforcement stood toe-to-toe with […]

PSU emphasizes the importance of auditing for better government efficiency
The Public Service Union (PSU) takes the view that the Government of Belize (GOB) must do […]

Mexicans escape quarantine center
uthrt r nvtgtng th whrbut f 3 n ntnl wh rrtdl d frm qurntn ntr n lz. h n wr wtng trl fr llgll ntr lz. […]

“Belize should raise retirement age,” says PSU
h ubl rv Unn (U), n r f rmmndtn md t th Gvrnmnt f lz (G) n t-vng mur tht uld mrv th untr’ nm tndng […]

Police called to land advocacy meeting in Cotton Tree
mnt g, l rrvd t th lnd dv mtng n ttn r Vllg bng hld b tvt Ngl tll […] rwd, wrng mk gthrd t th mmunt t l 44 n th Grg r ghw, n n ttmt t rgtr thr dr t wn f lnd […]

United Garifuna Association supports land advocacy for Belizeans
h Untd Grfun tn (UG), n ntt mrd f th ntnl Grfun tn wthn th mr nd th rbbn, ubll urtng th lnd dv ffrt bng hld n ttn r Vllg […]

Government encourages local tourism; targets July for international tourism
n n ffrt t bth rvr ndd rvnu frm th lrgt tr f th nm nd ffr m rlf t lzn, ll n rurl r, ftgud b lkdwn […]

Blogs

Corozal, Belize
Corozal is continuing to gain popularity among expats and native Belizeans. The reasons are clear: Real estate prices in Corozal are much less than what you will find in other areas of Belize. Corozal has another advantage—less rain than in most areas to the south. This of course means the same tropical climate with less of the tropical rain. In addition, Corozal is less than a half-hour from the Mexican city of Chetumal, where shopping and nightlife abound. Even closer is the Belizean duty-free zone, where Mexicans and expats can buy bargain-priced goods.

Update from Placencia, Belize - Restrictions loosening in-country, possible July airport opening?
Thank you again to Randy for the update on the experience of this crisis in Placencia. Although Belize is a small country, the impacts have been SO different in each area.....I (Laura) will be keeping you updated about Ambergris Caye, and Randy is holding down the fort in Placencia. (HERE yesterday - with some info about why I moved here!..... and HERE is one from about a week ago, this one explains the VERY different personalities of the popular areas throughout the country - hope this helps you in your search for your next perfect Belize itinerary!

#1 Authentic Belizean Fry Jack Recipe!
Make Belizean Fry Jack At Home With This Authentic Recipe belize fry jacks breakfast recipes chaa creek featured web Fry jacks are deep fried dough pieces that can be shaped in squares, circles or triangles. They say “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” and Belizeans take this very serious. One of the more popular and mouth-watering breakfast meals in Belize includes refried beans, eggs, cheese, bacon or ham and fresh fruits all perfectly paired with fry jacks.

Our Underground Love Affair With Belize Caves
The Great Blue Hole is the only cave we actually dove, but we know some great ones you can swim or float into, or just generally get wet visiting. Or, if you prefer, you can stay dry. Here, with links to more detailed descriptions, is a partial list of some of our favourites:

International Sources

Thinking About Future Travel? These Resorts Will Allow For Social Distancing
It’s safe to say that the coronavirus pandemic has changed the face of travel as we know it. Once “outside opens back up” everything from how we book to the destinations we select will have an impact on travelers worldwide. Here are a few dreamy destinations and vacation rentals to inspire future travel. Located three miles off the coast of Belize, Cayo Espanto is a private island resort that creates a sense of secluded paradise for every visitor. Each of the property’s seven villas includes a private dock, pool, a butler and personalized meal and concierge services.

Videos

Super Furia Band was live, 24min.

Nigel Petillo Arrested, 4min.

The road to/from Secret Beach, North Ambergris, Belize, 1.5min. Showing the Secret Beach road upgrade done by the San Pedro Town Council.

IT WAS THE BEST SNORKELING EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE | I swam with SHARKS | Caye Caulker, 13min. In Caye Caulker (Belize) I had the best snorkeling experience of my life, where in a whole day of diving thanks to the agency @ nautitime.tours that presented me with the tour, I was able to be in contact with moray eels, puffer fish, butterfly fish, octopuses, OX FISH, lobsters, turtles, sea horses, rays, SHARKS among others. It was simply incredible, because of all the snorkelings I have ever taken on my travels around the world, I had never dived with such a wide variety of marine animals in their natural habitat. It was surreal. Check it out!

Turneffe Belize, freediving underwater caves, 2min. The moose man cave is one of the largest within the immediate area. It’s also my favorite. If you can’t hold your breath till the end of the video, don’t try it in real life.

Cayo Espanto Private Island Resort in Belize, 3min. A video tour of Cayo Espanto, a private island resort situated in the clear, warm, inviting sparkling tropical waters west of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.

Tour of Secret Beach, 1min. Drone footage of the popular Secret Beach on San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Belize.

On our way to Belize Fitness (San Pedro Belize), 1min. On this day Tami and I are on our way to Belize Fitness.

THE AMAZING ORIN "COCO" ORIO! MAKING BELIZEAN FOOTBALL GREAT AGAIN (PART TWO)!, 32min. It can be said that Belizean football superstar and one of the best goalkeepers Belize had ever seen during the golden days of the 1970s and 80s Belizean football greatness countrywide is the legendary Orin "Coco" Orio from the "Culture Capital" of Belize Dangriga in the southern Stann Creek District of Belize.

May 17, 2020

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Swimming and dining out is a go, after SOE regulations further relaxed
After nearly 2 months with a 'no swimming' rule in place, Belizeans are relieved that the State of Emergency regulations are relaxed. Dining out is also a welcome change.

Woofer: Paper Inventions
“Mr. Dennis, this Reuben,” Mario said. The earnest-looking young Reuben shook my hand and joined us at our morning coffee on the beach. “Mario says you want some advice,” I said. “How can I help you?” “I invent things made of paper,” he said. “I’m a good inventor but I don’t know anything about selling. Mario says you studied business at university so maybe you could advise me.”

BTB Partners with Water Walkers Club to Assist the Needy in Belize City
As part of its commitment to assist families in need during this very difficult period created by COVID-19, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) this week partnered with Water Walkers Boys & Girls Club to provide groceries to 50 needy families in Belize City. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the BTB recognized that it was imperative to reach out to help those most in need.

The IDB and Compete Caribbean announces fifteen finalists for the Social Innovation Challenge
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Compete Caribbean Partnership Facility (CCPF) with its partners – the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development, the Caribbean Development Bank and the Government of Canada – announced the fifteen finalists for the challenge in Belize known as the ‘Change Dah Story’ Social Innovation Challenge. Change Dah Story, piloted by the CCPF in collaboration with IDB’s Country Office in Belize, aims to support the development of innovative business ideas around the issues faced by vulnerable youth in Belize, including crime and violence.

Rotary Club of Taiwan Donates Medical Equipment
In a brief handing-over ceremony held on May 13, 2020, in Taipei, Taiwan, the Ambassador of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) H.E. Diane Haylock received, on behalf of the Government of Belize, 200 protective gowns and 5,000 medical gloves from the Rotary Club of Taipei Nanlung. The donation was an initiative of a Taiwanese-Belizean, Mr. Feng-Yi Chang.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Sunday, May 17th, Meal pick ups Henry from Amigo's Kitchen will be serving up lunch at his NEW venue on the island, Summer Island, (formerly Amor y Cafe) on Front Street. How exciting! We wish him much success and appreciate all that he does for the CCSK! Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am- 12:30pm. Keep bringing your containers and bags. That is a BIG help!

Tropic Air Adds Flights To Corozal, Dangriga, Placencia & Punta Gorda
Tropic Air announces that effective Monday, May 18, 2020, we will be adding flights and service days on our routes between San Pedro and Corozal, and between Belize City Municipal and Dangriga, Placencia and Punta Gorda. This is in addition to the increased flights between Belize City, San Pedro and Caye Caulker that were announced yesterday. Please note there will be no flights on public and bank holidays.

COVID-19 update:
This is our data for today. Our staff continues to work through the weekends especially as we start to “open up” more routine services. All samples processed today are negative and random testing continues! We need to remain vigilant given the growing numbers with our neighbours. Our work continues!

Are you in favor of moving the water taxi terminal to where Ruby’s on the beach is?
Listening to the talk show about the proposed water taxi terminal at Ruby’s. Is there anyone in this town who wants the water taxi there? My mom, Celi McCorkle, and I met w the owners of the water taxi, including minister Heredia, a few months ago. And this is how it went down. 1. THEIR reason for not moving in the back is that the entrance/exit is way to shallow for them to go in and out. It would be way to expensive for them to make it deeper. Our answer: that’s not really our problem. You knew the back was the new area for water taxis and everyone was suppose to move back there...

Gilharry 7 Virtual Father’s Say Back Yard Tribute
Hey Guys Gilharry 7 Band goes Live Again this time is All About The Fathers. Virtual Father’s Say Back Yard Tribute Sunday, June 14th 2020 2:30 pm - 4:30pm Live in Concert- Feeling Blessed.

Food Donations for Cristo Rey
We had a wonderful time on Froday, May 15th 2020 as we supported our dear friends from the village of Cristo Rey, Corozal District, Belize with a generous supply of foods as we go through the financial pressures of Covid 19 pandemic in Belize. We are grateful for our support team members of To'one Masehualoon NGO, Ms Loreen Matura, Zuri and Enan and Miss Christy Valdez and all our dedicated financial supporters. Together we can continue to be healthy and resilient. Yuum Bo'otik Kanantabaa

Los Esperemos - We Will Wait
Tony Rath published an article about the fires and the illegal ranches in the Chiquibul and the Vaca Plateau. It's a must read, albeit quite depressing once one realizes that millions of dollars are behind the illegal encroaching into the reserves. "The past month has been rough for the people of western Belize. Clouds of acrid, eye burning smoke settled over the countryside, insidiously penetrating cars, buildings and bedrooms leaving no place for relief. With blistering heat, little breeze and quarantined by Covid-19 to their homes, Belizeans were getting a preview of what the entrance to hell must be like...

Channel 5

A large fire is burning out of control near Belmopan
Firefighters have responded.

The Reporter

Valley of Peace gas station Robbed
Four dark-skinned men driving a black Isuzu robbed the Valley of Peace gas station yesterday around 4:30 p.m. The robbers made off toward Spanish Lookout but overturned in their haste to get away.

Breaking Belize News

Arthur, first storm of 2020 Hurricane season
The National hurricane Center has issued an advisory for Tropical Storm Arthur which has become […]

Tropical Depression one, first of Atlantic Hurricane season forms off South Florida coast
The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm watch for portions of the North […]

Fire causes smoke fog over Belmopan
Authorities responded to reports of a fire reportedly located south of Cotton Tree. The Department […]

Taiwan donates more medical equipment to Belize
“Taiwan’s staunch support for the medical services providers and first responders of Belize are unwavering […]

Belize Hotel Association donates chicken to staff members affected by COVID-19
This week, the Belize Hotel Association donated chicken to staff members affected by COVID-19. The […]

PSU: Government can cut from its ‘exorbitant’ expenditure on vehicles and fuel
The Public Service Union (PSU) has shared details of a cost savings report from 2018 […]

Blogs

Beautiful Belize Cookbook: A Great Way to Support the Island We LOVE
Have you been fiddling around with sourdough baking and cereal pancakes (the WEIRD/stupid new Instgram trend)? Well STOP IT! Now you can make Belizean Black Soup or Stewed Beans or Coconut Bean Garnaches or even MY banana bread while you flip through over 100 GORGEOUS photos of Ambergris Caye. Foods that will take you back to your last trip to Belize…recipes and photos to tide you over until you can get here. AND ALL PROCEEDS GO TO MARESHA REID’S MASSIVE EFFORT (The San Pedro Hot Lunch Program) TO MAKE GREAT FOOD FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT.

Belize – One Month COVID19 Free
Today, Belize has officially gone over 30 days without reporting a new cases. Additionally, approximately 6 weeks after reporting its first COVID-19 infection, Belize officially confirms there are no active coronavirus cases. With a new travel update, Belize reopens domestic travel while tentatively planning for international arrivals. As of May 5, 2020, the remaining 2 active cases in Belize have fully recovered. Belize registered 2 deaths from COVID-19 and 18 total cases, with April 13 being the last reported spike (+4 cases). Neighboring countries like Guatemala and Mexico continue to report new cases, so Belize must continue to exercise all preventative measures.

International Museum Day to be held on May 18TH, 2020
International Museum Day is an international day held annually on May 18TH of each year. The event highlights a specific theme that changes every year to reflect the basis of the international museum community's preoccupations. In Corozal, Corozal District, Belize, the Corozal House of Culture held's there Annual International Museum Day inside the Corozal House Of Culture. The Museum each year is celebrated with a different Theme, and, Corozal schools participate each year to attend this International Museum Day. Due, to the COVID-19 this year, there will be no event celebrated inside the Museum.

International Sources

Mexican Nationals Flee Belize Quarantine Center
Police believe that three Mexican nationals who had escaped from a quarantine center as they awaited trial for illegally entering the country, may have returned to their homeland. “We believe by now they may have gone back across the border but we are still in the area looking to see if they will be recaptured,” Police Commissioner Chester Williams told reporters. The Mexicans had been caught in the area of Bacalar Chico on Thursday by the Coast Guard and handed over to police.

Videos

Allegro Music School - Brighter Days, 1min. Uplifting duet from Tessa Ayala and Tanya Kornleson! #BelizeFestivalofArts

Curious pufferfish is adorable but extremely deadly to predators, 1min. This adorable little fellow was swimming around the crevices on a coral head in Belize when he spotted a shiny underwater camera that was held motionless. He decided to approach and gaze right into the camera to see what it was all about. Inquisitive and unconcerned with the diver, he provided quite a show and some very interesting closeup footage.

TAKE A LOOK AT THE WONDERFUL CHARITY WORK FROM THE CAYE CAULKER SOUP KITCHEN, 4min. A news clip from the Voice of Caye Caulker featuring our Soup Kitchen

Reflections on Belize, min.

Peter Lawrence on ReefTV, 4min. REFLECTIONS / BELIZE is a fresh look back on an amazing trip to Cayo Frances Farm and Fly in Belize also known as the Bote House. We relive the experience and show unseen footage of this amazing adventure. Many thanks go out to the staff and the owner Jeff for be such gracious hosts during our stay. There is no doubt that we will be heading back very soon!

Ocean Academy thanks the Tech Community, 4.5min.

Belize Barrier Reef - Cinematic, 1min.

Belize Black Dinner by 10 year old, Alissa, 6min. Chirmole or Relleno Negro also known as Belizean Black dinner recipe done by Alissa and her mom. This is a black colored soup with so much flavor and seasoning of Mayan and Mestizo roots but enjoyed by all Belizeans!

Fish & Dive for Lobster in Belize, 2.5min.

Invisible Threads: A Love Letter to Belize, 4min. Invisible Threads is a visual retelling of my experiences while living in Belize for three months. I'm excited and a little nervous to share this with the world because it feels like my baby. My intention is to convey the raw and honest beauty of the sights and sounds of this country.

Sailing in Belize on a Bareboat Charter: Part 1, 3min. This is part 1 of a 7 part series from a sailing trip in Belize. Sailing from the Moorings base in Placencia. I chartered a 42-foot monohull and acted as skipper with my good friends Michael as chef and Scott as first mate. This was my 4th time charter with the Moorings in Belize and I am look forward to going again.

How it feels like flying with Tropic Air Belize-Guatemala, 1.5min. A flight with Tropic Air Belize-Guatemala, the tiny airplane that occupies 14 passengers, but there were just four passengers instead.

What To See and Do in Belize, 6.5min. Located in the Central American region near the Caribbean Sea, Belize has plenty of sights and activities to offer. I've also gone to explore Caye Caulker from north to south. Then went to a few which I thought could be interesting! It can be expensive in some and your expenses can add up quickly but everything you do here, is all worth the fun!

Blue Hole BELIZE 1994, 7.5min.

TOP 3 FISHING KNOTS EVERY FISHERMEN SHOULD KNOW | TEAM JRUBIO, 4min. THIS ARE THE BEST FISHING KNOTS EVERY FISHERMEN SHOULD KNOW, IT IS EASY, QUICK AND STRONG.

Hands Across the Sand, 1min. In Belize, Wavemakers from the St. Ignatius High School Environmental Club are showing us how much they love the environment and why they think it’s worth protecting.

Inga Alley Cropping - Climate Smart Farming - Ya’axché Conservation Trust, Belize, 13min. Inga alley cropping protects and builds fertile soils. Farmers plant inga alleys and use its broad leaves to create mulch on the ground to retain humidity. Before plant crops such as beans or peppers, the inga is pruned at chest height for it to release nitrogen into the soil. Quality and delicious crops have been harvested by the MGL farmers practicing climate smart farming strategies such as planting inga edulis.

May 16, 2020

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

San Pedro Belize Express makes second donation to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye
Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are far from returning to normal in the face of COVID-19, and with the tourism industry suspended, many of its residents are in need. Many organizations continue to generously donate, including San Pedro Belize Express (SPBE) Water Taxi Company. The SPBE made their second donation to both islands on Wednesday, May 13th consisting of non-perishable items, flour, rice, beans, hygienic products among other basic necessities valued at around $20,000.

Various Belizean Sources

San Pedro Chinese Community Donation
Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council would like to thank the San Pedro Chinese Community for their kind donation. Thank you very much!

POSSIBLE USA REPATRIATION FLIGHT SCHEDULED FOR MAY 22nd
There is an unconfirmed United Airlines flight for Friday May 22, 2020 pending Government of Belize approval. Reservations are being accepted at www.United.com. United Airlines Flight UA 2421 departs Belize City on Friday May 22, 2020 at 12:00 pm (noon) and arrives in Houston, TX at 15:30 pm. United Airlines is providing this repatriation flight for U.S. citizens, family members, and other third-country nationals departing Belize. If you would like to depart on this flight, please make a reservation directly with United Airlines at www.United.com.

Dive Into Tourism Vol. 4
The Ministry of Tourism newest publication of Dive Into Tourism explores success stories of collaboration between farmers and hotels in the Caribbean such as the provision of fresh local produce to the tourism sector. Dive into this newest edition to see how these practices can definitely be replicated and utilized in Belize!

Webinar series "Teaching Online. It's About Teaching not Technology
Regional English Language Office is pleased to invite you to a webinar series "Teaching Online. It's About Teaching not Technology" Teachers, we hope you'll join us every Monday and Thursday starting May 25th! Join live using the link: https://www.facebook.com/OELPMexico/.

The Artist of the Day, Felene Cayetano
Felene M. Cayetano is an author, mother, publisher, librarian, and editor. Her migration from Belize to Los Angeles at the age of 9 was a key factor that led her to writing poetry in primary school before easing into writing short stories. This love of writing was balanced by a love of reading which gave her the vocabulary to voice her experiences and an appreciation for libraries. In adulthood, she pursued and attained a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Baltimore then a Master’s degree in Information and Library Science from Pratt Institute School of Information and Library Science. Since 2004, she has self-published 3 times and her poems or short stories have appeared in several regional journals. Evolution: Weaving in and out of Consciousness While the Truth is Somewhere in the Middle poetically documents her coming-of-age in America from the age of fifteen to twenty-five years old.

Educational Opportunity!
The Hubert H Humphrey Fellowship Program is a one-year fellowship program offered to mid-career professionals working at the policy level who have a record of leadership and commitment to public service.

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR DISPLACED BELIZEANS ABROAD
If you are a Belizean who has been unable to return home to Belize due to the closure of our borders as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you will now be able to do so BUT with prior coordination and approval with the Government of Belize. From Monday, 18 May 2020, displaced Belizeans can visit the website and complete the application form and the COVID-19 Screening Application. These MUST be completed and submitted electronically in order for you to be considered for a coordinated return to Belize. A link to the forms will also be available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website at www.mfa.gov.bz.

Childrens Drawing Contest sponsored by Mexico
Belizeans y Belicenos are invited to participate in the categories. Category ONE 6:-8 years old; category two 9-11 years old and category three 12-14.

Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve: Renewal of Special License
The Belize Fisheries Department hereby informs the public that it will be conducting renewal of Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes special license for mutton snapper on May 20 to 21, 2020 at the Southern Environmental Association office in Placencia Village, Stann Creek. This effort is to facilitate fishers that were unable to renew their license during the state of emergency and closure of the Fisheries Department office. Licensing will be carried out as follows: • Wednesday, May 20, 2020 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. • Thursday, May 21, 2020 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Monday's Ask the Experts
Tune into Ask the Experts on Monday, May 18th, at 2:00 p.m. Joining us will be the Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams to answer your questions live on air.

Guatemala on Virtual Lockdown
As we monitor what happens with our neigbhours, we note that Guatemala has gone on a virtual lockdown for the next 3 days given the increasing numbers of cases they are having. Neighbouring state of Quintana Roo reported a total of 1,257 cases by midday today with neighbouring Othon P. Blanco (Includes Chetumal) now having a total of 37 cases with 6 deaths; they have now double our total amount of cases in Belize. The numbers for both entities are expected to rise throughout this weekend.

Tropic Air Expands Domestic Flights Between San Pedro, Caye Caulker And Belize City
Tropic Air announces that effective Monday, May 18, 2020, we will be adding service days on our routes between San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Belize City Municipal. We will now be flying Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Space permitting, we will also carry cargo on every flight to every destination. There will be no flights on public and bank holidays.

Customer Service Essentials webinar
Free Customer Service Essentials webinar scheduled for May 18th. Register now at: https://bit.ly/2T9SVzs

WEBCAST: “Investment Diversification Opportunities Post-Covid-19”
As a part of National Competitiveness Month, our team atBelizeINVEST a unit of BELTRAIDE will be hosting a virtual webcast discussing “Investment Diversification Opportunities Post-Covid-19” to be held on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 2:00 pm via Zoom. The webcast will include our regional and local partners with panelists from the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA), Inter-American Development Bank, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce as well as private sector representatives sharing experiences in investment diversification from Transparent BPO and Travellers Liquors Ltd. This virtual webinar is designed to promote opportunities that can ensure social and economic business survival during and post-COVID-19. Register now by visiting the following link under the Investment Diversification Opportunities Post-COVID-19 tab: http://www.belizeinvest.org.bz/ncm

Channel 7

Closer to Normal?
Tonight we start the news with a take on Belize's new normal, the intermediary stage after our first wave of COVID-19 - and beforewho knows what comes next. And in this new masked, gloved, hyper-policed and ultra-sanitized world, nothing is what it once was, and simple pleasures like dining out and taking an afternoon swim, or an evening walk are governed by strict regulations. It's a world in which Belizeans wait with bated breath for the next relaxation to inch us closer and closer to the world we knew, while wondering if we'll ever see it again. Cherisse Halsall reports:

Guatemala Gripped By COVID Spike
And, the new normal in Guatemala means something very different than it does Belize. While we are slowly opening up - our neighbour Guatemala is shutting down like never before! After a record 143 new positive cases of the coronavirus appeared yesterday - President Alejandro Giammattei instituted strict lockdown protocols that went into effect this evening. Basically the country will be completely shutdown from this evening at 5:00 until Monday at 5:00 in the morning. During that time, only essential services will be allowed to operate.

Corn Trucks Stuck
And one unintended consequence of the shutdown is those Guatemalan corn trucks. We've been telling you about all week? Well, according to our reports at least three of them will be guests of the nation this weekend. As we told you, the trucks came in to the country pick up corn from various granaries in western Belize yesterday. That's after a three day border blocking protest on the Guatemalan side.

Belize, CA's Last Safe Haven
Our other neighbor, Mexico also spiked yesterday, reporting its own new record for new coronavirus cases in a single day, 2,409. That brings their national total to 42,595 positive cases with 4,477 deaths - the greatest number - more than eleven thousand - concentrated in the densely populated Mexico City. The total for Chetumal remains relatively low with only 37 cases and 6 deaths, while Cancun has 929 cases with 181 deaths.

Belize, 1 of Very Few Without COVID For 30 Days
And, now at that 32 day mark with no new positive cases, Belize joins a short list of only seven countries and territories in this hemisphere that have gone more than 30 days without showing a positive case. According to WHO statistics, only four sovereign nations: Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Suriname and Belize are on that list.

Mexican Fishers Creep Out of Quarantine
Last night we told you about the three Mexicans who the Coast Guard found fishing in the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve. They were caught early Thursday morning doing illegal fishing. Now, it's an immigration offence, a fishing offence, a state of emergency violation, and of course, a COVID risk. So the men stood to be charged by Police, Immigration, Fisheries and processed by Health.

No Mask? Cop Pulls Gun
And, keeping it in the north, a rough encounter between the police and a young un-masked civilian in Guinea Grass village, Orange Walk has been generating facebook traffic today. It shows a police officer on motorbike trying to arrest the young man for the mask violation. But, the older man with him resisted - and then stepped towards the cop. Reflexively the police officer pulled his weapon, but did not fire it.

Chamber Chastises Unions/GOB
Government and its major unions, the PSU and the BNTU remain at loggerheads tonight. A compromise worked out on Wednesday went by the wayside, reportedly after the unions tried to change the language in the agreement. Now, the Chamber of Commerce has weighed in - and the language it's using, isn't too delicate. The business group says, quote "this debate is totally unacceptable...To now witness a debate about pay increases, to see public sector workers' refusal to relinquish their increment (or any other form of compensation) at a time when thousands are losing their jobs completely...

Yohny's Sad Story
Last night, we took you to Channel 5's headquarters on Coney Drive in Belize City. That's where FECTAB, the Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize, congregated to protest against Lord Michael Ashcroft. Ashcroft was at his television station for an appearance on the Open Your Eyes morning talk show. He discussed his proposal for a 200 million US-dollar facelift for the Port of Belize.

Gun Owner Gwaaf On Police
Daren Stuart has been featured multiple times on this newscast, as a bus driver with interesting insights into the industry, or as a spokesperson for the Belize Bus Association. But, tonight, he's making the news because he says police at the Raccoon Street Police Station in Belize City are making it difficult for him to comply with the gun laws. He's a licensed firearm holder, and he says that for about 2 weeks now, he's been trying unsuccessfully to renew his license.

San Pedro Officials Overstep?
Are San Pedro's local authorities going beyond what the law allows in their zeal to keep their island COVID free? The town board has set up a screening desk for persons leaving the island where all water taxi passengers are required to fill out a COVID 19 prevention screening form. It asks travellers all kinds of information, like where they came from and where they are going and what is the business of their trip.

BGYEA Breaks With Petillo
The community at mile 41 on the George Price Highway is known today as Harmonyville. But 10 years ago, it didn't exist. It was private land that the Government eventually acquired from a Taiwanese businessman who had not been paying his property tax. But, before the Government could subdivide it, the Belize Grassroots Youth Empowerment Association (BIGYEA), brought public pressure on the Barrow Administration. They were able to leverage the public support for the sentiment that regular Belizeans should have equal opportunity to become first-time landowners. They were basically squatters who pressed their cause until the Government finally conceded, and allowed them to keep the land.

Taiwan's Timely Donation
Belize has received a generous donation of much needed Personal Protective Equipment from the Rotary Club of Taipei Nanlung. The donation was handed over in a ceremony held on Wednesday by Belize's Ambassador to Taiwan, Diane Haylock. It was the initiative of Taiwanese-Belizean, Mr. Feng-Yi Chang, and is made up of 200 protective gowns and 5,000 medical gloves.

IDB Inspires Innovation
And while Taiwan continues to help Belize, the Inter American Development Bank in partnership with the Compete Caribbean Partnership Facility is helping Belizeans to help themselves. It's a social innovation challenge called "Change Dah Story" that was promoted by Beltraide and the Department for Youth Services back in October of 2019. It's aimed at looking for innovative ideas and business models to improve the future of vulnerable youths in Belize. And today, 7 months and several economic and social disasters later, 15 finalists have been selected out of 77 proposals submitted in the IDB's "Change Dah Story' challenge.

PM Touches Third Rail: Talks Devaluation
And while the IDB is active in that program, government is also eagerly looking to the bank for 6.2 million US dollars for assistance to the health sector in the COVID crisis. It is supposed to arrive at the end of this month, and for the government, it can't come too soon. That's because - in very lean times - the government sees it as a much needed foreign exchange inflow to buttress the foreign reserves which have sagged below the three month benchmark.

The Man Behind The Mask
And, if you're wondering why the Prime Minister didn't wear a mask during his marathon - almost three hour press conference yesterday - he did have an explanation. Here's how he put it when asked: "Sir, so I came to the office and had to be in public with my mask. I took off the mask for purposes of speaking to you because it's a little bit of a hindrance and everybody else in the room has on a mask, so please don't misinterpret the fact that I am not wearing it..."

Tourism Troubles By Battalions
So, the domestic tourism push started today where Belizeans, meaning those who still have jobs and full paying ones, will be enticed by discounts and special packages to visit our local hotels and resorts. For hotel owners and employees this is a thin olive branch of hope in a time of devastating losses to company and individual earnings. The president of the hotel association yesterday told us that hotel owners are trying their best to weather the hard times, and prepare for a phased recovery later this year:

Bridging The Digital Divide With Printouts?
And while everybody's talking about re-starting tourism, no one is talking seriously about re-opening school. When we spoke to the minister earlier this week about access to learning for the most needy children, he said that the Ministry's printable education material was in its second edition of printout and circulation. "Major part of the problem is right now we have to be getting the physical newsprints out to our students across the country. By the way, a new edition of those prints are now out..."

Channel 5

PM Says “Forego;” Unions Say “Defer”
There is still no deal between the Belize National Teachers Union, the Public Service Union and the Government of Belize and at news time, the unions are preparing to respond [...]

B.N.T.U. Prez: “Words Have Meaning”
At this time, the B.N.T.U. is also speaking on behalf of the Public Service Union and sharing the same position. Quoting the Prime Minister’s own words, Senator Elena Smith says [...]

B.N.T.U. President Says We Are Not Back At Square One
The Prime Minister says that the option to amend the Public Service Regulations to give the minister the power to alter salaries is back in play. According to the PM, [...]

S.I. 72 Comes Into Effect Today!
The new state of emergency regulations under Statutory Instrument seventy-two came into effect today. While some of the restrictions were reduced other key measures remain in place for public health [...]

DHS Cautions Public Not to Get too Relaxed with Health and Safety Measures
The ease of restrictions is because there is still no active case of COVID-19 in Belize tonight. Belize has passed its first wave of the disease but the risk for [...]

Mexican Fishermen Escape Quarantine!
The three Mexican nationals who were placed in quarantine on Thursday have escaped from the facility. The men, Gabriel Vargas de la Cruz, Noel Gonzalez Alamilla and Arturo Pedro Cordero, [...]

When Will Guillermo Foreman Be Arraigned for Illegal Entry?
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams also spoke on the illegal entry of Belmopan resident, Guillermo Foreman, who is now spending his third night in police custody as he awaits arraignment. [...]

Five-month-old Didn’t Die from Vaccine
On Tuesday, we reported the death of a five-month-old baby from Bella Vista Village. The report reaching our newsroom was that the child was administered a vaccine at the Independence Polyclinic...

Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund Donates to Diocesan Outreach Commission
More than six hundred families are benefitting from the Anglican Diocese’s food pantry programme which ensures that the families can cope with the impact from the COVID-19 crisis as they [...]

Belize Chamber of Commerce Chastises the Unions over the Proposed Cost-Saving Measures
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry today weighed in on the impasse between the government and the unions. It says that in an economic scenario where COVID-19 has shut [...]

San Pedro Resident Accused of Building on a Designated Street
Moving to San Pedro, where Charles Leslie wants Joel Chi to cease and desist from building a cement structure on a designated street on the island. Construction has been going [...]

Attorney Says There is Political Interference
According to Attorney Wendy Auxillou, the delay in serving Chi with the stop order is political. She claims that because Chi is politically connected, the process is sluggish. Hipolito [...]

A Group of Guatemalan Nationals Charged for Illegal Entry in the West
A group of Guatemalan nationals were clearly not avoiding the Corona beer during the corona virus pandemic. On Thursday afternoon, the group was busted in the Calla Creek area of [...]

Belizean Fishermen Charged for Using Gillnet without a License
Some Belizeans were also found to be conducting illegal fishing. Around two-thirty on Wednesday, the Belize Coast Guard’s Maritime Law Enforcement Team intercepted a fishing boat in the Corozal Bay [...]

Criminal Activities Minimized
There has been little crime reported across the country, except for in Dangriga where there was a flare up of violence due to warring gang groups in that southern municipality. [...]

Charged for Murder, Gian Guerra Gets Supreme Court Bail
The Supreme Court has resumed its work after a few weeks of closure because of the COVID-19 lockdown and today, several bail applications were heard. Gian Lee Guerra, charged for [...]

Edgar Molina is Granted Bail for Possession of Unlicensed Firearm
A man, who was arrested and charged in April for possession of unlicensed firearm and drug trafficking, today received bail on condition that they adhere to certain conditions. Supreme Court [...]

ComPol says Guinea Grass Police Officer Acted within his Rights!
While there has been a relaxation of the State of Emergency restrictions, several measures are still in place for public health and safety reasons. The use of face of mask [...]

Where is Your Mask, PM?
As you heard, not adhering to the use of the mask is getting people in plenty of trouble with the law. In a light moment during the Prime Minister’s virtual [...]

What About Cruise Lines’ Employees?
Belizeans students who are stuck in other countries due to COVID-19 are encouraged to write to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if they want to return home. While borders remain [...]

PM to Mayors: “I am very sorry, but we can’t”
As for city and town councils, the Prime Minister Dean Barrow says that they need to figure a way how they rebound from COVID-19. Municipal leaders have been asking Central [...]

It’s National Teachers Day
They teach and guide the children all year round. This year, COVID-19 is presenting unprecedented challenges, but the teachers continue to remain steadfast in moulding and inspiring the children. It’s [...]

Teachers Working Through the COVID-19 Crisis
While the occasion as not celebrated in grand fashion, Senator Elena Smith took time to underscore and express gratitude to teachers for using their own resources to work with their [...]

Belize Hotel Association Makes Donation Five Hundred Employees at Hotels across the Country
Over a thousand employees who work at properties that are members of the Belize Hotel Association have been displaced by COVID-19. While some have benefited from relief and pantry programmes, [...]

The National Festival of Arts 2020 Goes Virtual
The National Festival of Arts 2020 goes virtual. Around this time every year, the national showcase of primary and high school students in the performing arts would take centre stage [...]

Amandala

Government refuses to budget
Prime Minister Dean Barrow, whose administration has been at odds with the public service unions over government’s proposal to freeze increments for two fiscal years, 2020-2021, announced today that the government’s proposal has been accepted by one of the three unions, the Association of Public Service Senior Managers (APSSM). Following their meeting yesterday in Belmopan, the Public Service Union (PSU) and the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) emerged from the meeting indicating that they wanted to amend the wording of the agreement government had put forward to end the impasse over increments and retirement packages. (This is a cost-saving measure that government wants to put into effect because of the huge costs caused by the fight against COVID-19 as well as the drastic reduction in government revenue due to the pandemic.)

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen feeds up to 350 persons daily
The COVID-19 pandemic has utterly wiped out the earnings of a large number of residents on Caye Caulker, where the majority of employed persons were dependent on the tourism industry. According to a press release issued by a group of private citizens, among which are many restaurant owners, 85 percent of the island’s workforce were rendered unemployed by the pandemic.

5 arrested for protesting against Lord Michael Ashcroft
Lord Michael Ashcroft appeared as a guest on News5’s Open Your Eyes morning show during the show’s first segment. Among the many topics the show’s host, Marleni Cuellar, touched on was Ashcroft’s proposal to government to invest in a cruise tourism port on lands owned by the Port of Belize Limited. The segment of the show in which Lord Ashcroft appeared finished shortly after 7:00 a.m., and by that time, Lord Ashcroft’s presence at the Channel 5 building had attracted the attention of a few members of the Federation of Cruise Tourism Association of Belize (FECTAB), as well as a stevedore/activist.

Belize ready to begin repatriation of citizens stranded outside
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in citizens of various countries being left stranded outside their national borders; some are stranded on cruise ships that have been at sea for months and are unable to dock due to the pandemic. There are many Belizeans who have been left stranded after the Government of Belize declared a National State of Emergency and proceeded to close the borders at the end of March, in effect locking out Belizean citizens in the wake of measures to prevent the importation of the novel coronavirus into the country.

Belizean car salesman stuck at northern border is now detained —facing charges
Thousands of people around the world were left stranded outside their national borders after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic and countries began to close their borders in the fight against the novel coronavirus. At sea, up to 100,000 passengers and crews aboard cruise ships were left stranded. Since April, Belize has been under a national State of Emergency and all borders are closed. The penalty for entering Belize while the borders remain closed is imprisonment for anyone who is found guilty in court.

18-year-old remanded for beating disabled mother
Jordan Lamb, 18, a laborer, has been remanded until Monday, May 18, when he will be returned to court to be sentenced after he pleaded guilty to aggravated assault for beating his disabled mother and shoving her to the ground because she refused to give him money to buy drugs. Lamb was taken yesterday to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, where he pleaded guilty, and Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts Anderson accepted his guilty plea and remanded him so that he could think about what he had done before she sentenced him.

Police charge two men for Marage Road home invasion
An investigation into the invasion of the home of Michael Avilez, 61, of Marage Road, Ladyville, which occurred at about 12:30 Monday morning, has led police to Tyrese Gladden, 21, a laborer of Ladyville, and Shyiem Casimiro, 20, also a laborer of Ladyville. The two thieves broke into Avilez’s home and demanded money, and when he told them that he was broke, one of the bandits beat him in the head with the gun he was carrying, and the other robber stabbed him in the chest twice with a knife.

Compol Williams demands apology from ambulance driver
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams is demanding an apology from a Southern Emergency ambulance driver, now identified as Leon Caliz. Police said that on Sunday, they had received information that a driver was being held at gunpoint by criminals in the ambulance, and he was being forced to transport guns and drugs to Belize City, from the southern districts. Police said that after they received the information, they made two attempts to stop the ambulance that was speeding along the Hummingbird Highway to Belize City from Hopkins, Stann Creek District, to deliver a patient from Independence to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.

50-foot whale found decomposing on beach
A large Baleem male whale measuring about 50 feet in length was found dead and decomposing in the shallow waters of Drowned Cayes, off the coast of Belize City, yesterday. Officials of the Wildlife Conservation Society who went to see the huge animal were able to observe only its exterior, but because of the creature’s size, they were unable to turn it over to see whether there were injuries on it.

Editorial: We need our full share from tourism
Last week the leader of our country, Hon. Dean Barrow, spoke of tourists returning to the country in the coming months, and it has been mentioned that as early as July we could see international flights coming to Belize if things keep progressing as they are right now. Mr. Ted Tejada, the president of the Belize Hotel Association, said that in preparation for the return of tourists they are developing policies and procedures to ensure the safety of people working in the industry. Our country depends heavily on the tourism industry, and the pandemic has laid us flat. The sooner tourists start coming back to Belize the better for our economy, but everyone knows that accepting them before there is a vaccine for COVID-19 increases the risk of the disease reappearing in Belize, and in a worse way than we experienced it in the “first” wave. This is a risk that every Belizean will bear, so it can’t be overly ambitious for us to expect that tourists pay more for the opportunity to visit our wonderful country.

From the Publisher
The right wing, anti-communist Opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), led by the late Dean Lindo, was widely expected to win the 1979 general election, but the incumbent People’s United Party (PUP), led by the late, Rt. Hon. George Price, won a surprise victory and went on to lead Belize to independence in September of 1981. Assad Shoman and Said Musa were controversial PUP candidates in that 1979 election, because they were considered left wing, pro-Cuban, and even communist. Shoman won his seat in Cayo North, and Musa won his in Fort George, whereupon Assad became Minister of Health, and Said was appointed Minister of Education and Sports in Mr. Price’s new Cabinet.

A call for Belizean self-reflection and unity
Regardless of what you think about Britain, you can bet on one thing: The British will look after the interests of the British—”Brexit”, or “No Brexit”. The British Monarch, the day following Brexit when many in Britain, Europe, and around the world spoke as though the end-of-the-world draweth nigh, memorably declared, “I’m still alive.” Some news outlets reported this was merely a jest, a joke.

The new way of learning
Due to the social distancing protocol that was implemented under the State of Emergency in March, classes have been suspended for at least the remainder of the current semester, which was unsettling news for many Belizean residents, especially students who were on their way to graduating from primary and secondary schools. In light of these concerns, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has been working to ensure that students across the country are provided with an education through various mediums so that they may be promoted to a higher level of learning despite the COVID-19 restrictions.

International Nurses Day observed as the world battles COVID-19 pandemic
A nurse is a special kind of worker. Especially during these times when the world is battling with the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of nurses on the frontlines of this war is of paramount importance, and a spotlight is being put on that role as the world takes the time today to honor nurses on International Nurses Day, which is the culmination of International Nurses Week, which started on May 6. With only two deaths resulting from the novel coronavirus, Belize is in a much better position than most other countries in the region, and nurses played a vital role in the overall recovery of the country’s first wave of COVID-19 patients.

Social Security Board donates $200,000 to KHMH Oncology Unit
Last Wednesday, May 6, the Belize Social Security Board handed over a check for $200,000 to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) for the continued development of its Oncology Unit. The donation will be used for the purchasing of equipment needed for the functioning of the new Oncology Unit, which will provide clinical care and management of patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment for various types of cancer, said a press release from the Social Security Board.

Avianca files for bankruptcy
ne of the largest international airlines in the region, Avianca (AVH) from Colombia, has gone bankrupt as a result of the major blow that COVID-19 has inflicted on global tourism. On Sunday, May 10, 2020, the airline filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US Southern District of New York due to the “unforeseeable impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” according to a public statement. Avianca is the world’s second longest running airline (operational since 1919) and is the third largest Latin American airline based on market share, employing over 20,000 people from the Latin American region and 14,000 Colombians.

Early professionalism in Belize football
We’ve recently chronicled some highlights on the road to the inception of the first semi-professional football league in Belize in March, 1991. But that was hardly the first time that footballers broke ranks with the “amateur” label, so staunchly guarded by the then bureaucrats of the sport. In fact, the legendary Queens Park Rangers was unapologetically a semi-professional team in its heyday. What do you call it, when players are given jobs with a company because of their football skills, and then allowed special time-off in the afternoons, while other workers continued at their tasks, to go and practice football on the company’s playing field?

Memorable goals – when Negro scorched Bom, and Francis to Francis
Thanks to Lewis “Buck” Belisle, Jr., who we cousins call Lee Buck, we finally got the legal first name of renowned football striker of the 1970s, “Negro” Hall. Younger generations will be more familiar with his younger relative, Estevan “Negro” Hall who became famous in the 1990s with first semipro champions La Victoria. The original Negro (Hubert) Hall was a relatively tall, dark brown skinned “Indio” from the north; thus, I suspect, the nickname “Negro.” He came to the city as a part of different teams from the north during the late 70s and early 80s; but one goal he scored has stuck in my memory.

To enter or not to enter …. Belize on lockdown!
It has always been a trend that those with power, if left unchecked, will find ways to abuse it. I do not know if it’s a matter of human nature or just that some have a higher propensity to be consumed by power. I always knew that declaring a State of Emergency meant that I had to forgo certain liberties. I will not say I was not wary about having to give up my civil liberties for a period of time under an SoE, but I had to have faith that in return the state and the powers that be, would not abuse it, use it as an excuse, or subject us to unnecessary conditions just because they can!

UDP leaders giving up no Widow’s Mite
You realize the PUP in opposition is as poor at handling their candle as the UDP was before they were given control of the country, to fix things in 2008. Talk about wasted votes. Talk about jump out of frying pan an lan eena fire. Talk about another big betrayal. The credibility of our political leaders is lower than the spot where the international financiers are putting our economy. After repeatedly betraying the Belizean people, our political leaders’ words da junk.

Musings by the Curious Nonconformist
As a child, I always had a recurring nightmare. It pops up now and again when I am under the excessive stress of being blessed enough to be alive now. Of course, I won’t get into all the odd details of that subconscious movie. The silhouette of it is that I’m running from a scary character, trying to get home, only to realize that I never will. I am never caught. I always wake up just before I am, but what’s more terrifying is that I never make it home. Always on this sort of conveyer belt moving forward, but never actually moving at all.

No more crab soup
“but subject to respect for the rights and freedoms of others and for the public interest…” Chapter II is the treatise of our Constitution on human rights. Its heading is “The protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.” Happily you don’t need to be a genius to fully understand that for civilization and societies to even exist depends on man’s acceptance of the two sides of this equation, i.e. there are rights; and there are concomitant duties and responsibilities.

The agreement with British Honduras
Mr. Green was a well-qualified cabinet maker and carpenter from Belize City who came along with his family to reside in Corozal. He had a workshop with three employees and his son. They made all kinds of furniture and built several houses. Mr. Green taught me how to make a stool chair, and I participated in the making of a table using only lumber and wood glue; no nails or screws were applied. One evening, my mother visited the family and I remember clearly when Mr. Green said to her: “Mary, I’ll have to leave my country and go to the U.S.”

The Reporter

Donation from the Rotary Club of Taipei Nanlung
In a brief handing-over ceremony held on May 13, 2020, in Taipei, Taiwan, the Ambassador of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) H.E. Diane Haylock received, on behalf of the Government of Belize, 200 protective gowns and 5,000 medical gloves from the Rotary Club of Taipei Nanlung. The donation was an initiative of a Taiwanese-Belizean, Mr. Feng-Yi Chang.

LOVE FM

Government makes border concessions in the name of corn trade
The last we reported on cattle exportation was the informal trading that was happening via the Bullett Tree Road in the Cayo District. Prime Minister explained a few weeks ago that it was an illegal trade and that the Guatemalan authorities opted to address the matter, requiring a better way.

Belizean man stranded outside the Belize/Mexico border for four days
A Belizean was stranded outside the Belize/Mexico border on his way back from Texas, USA. 49-year-old Guillermo Foreman was unaware that the State of Emergency was extended in Belize for another sixty days and had minimal food and water and slept inside his vehicle for almost four days awaiting clearance to enter the country from the relevant authorities.

Hoteliers encourage local tourism
The tourism industry came to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic. With borders closed and people forced to stay inside, hotels had no choice but to close their doors. As State of Emergency restrictions continue to ease down, local tourism is slowly beginning to pick up. Reporter Courtney Menzies found out how some hotels are coping during this time.

Belize anticipates a visit from the International Monetary Fund
Prime Minister Dean Barrow has spoken at length on the future economic crisis that Belize will face post-COVID-19. The Covid-19 pandemic has created a major financial setback for many countries including Belize. Millions of dollars are being diverted from earmarked funds and millions more are being borrowed.

Public officers weigh in on increment issue
Several public officers have weighed in on the current impasse between the Public Service Union and the Government of Belize. Our Cayo Correspondent, Fem Cruz sought out these comments in Belmopan earlier today.

Breaking Belize News

Global COVID-19 cases over 4 million
The COVID-19 outbreak, which started in late December last year has become a global event […]

Special licenses for mutton snapper renewal to be conducted
The Belize Fisheries Department informed that it will be conducting renewal of Gladden Spit and […]

Update on CXC- Jamaica Bilateral discussions
The Caribbean Examinations Council® (CXC®) today, subsequent to the decision of the Council for Human […]

Taiwan’s Rotary Club donates medical equipment
In a brief handing-over ceremony held on May 13 in Taipei, Taiwan, the Ambassador of […]

Prime Minister Dean Barrow’s update on COVID-19
Today marks Belize’s 31st day without anyone testing positive for the novel Coronavirus. We, therefore, are holding steady […]

Belize health officials monitor increase of COVID-19 cases in neighboring countries
The Office of the Director of Health Services informed that health officials are closely monitoring […]

Green Clean, Western Dairies and Midwest Lumber Mill donated to Western Regional Hospital Nurses’ Lasagna Luncheon
Contributed: Green Care Products Ltd (GCPL), the local developer of Green Clean sanitizers and disinfectants, Western Dairies and […]

To my educators: Thank you for your inspiration!
Picture: Belizean journalist address officials at ICDF Taiwan By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: The life of an educator is […]

Where are the low LPG prices, ask ex-importers?
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has gone up by 31 cents from the last shipment and […]

British High Commission announces repatriation flight for British nationals
The British High Commission in Belize has informed of a repatriation flight for all British […]

Unsung Heroes ( A tribute to Teachers)
By Rudolph A. Neal: Whenever we hear the proverbial term "hero", we often times think of someone who's strong and powerful that comes dashing through the air at record speed […]

Over 120 US citizens return home
The United States Embassy in Belize and the Government of Belize facilitated the process for […]

Belize Taiwan ICDF Alumni Society delivers COVID-19 care packages
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how bad things can get and how quickly they can […]

Blogs

Local businesses re-open: dining out and swimming is a go!
Not that we’re counting or anything (who are we kidding!) – but 53 days after we shut down, we can taste FREEDOM once again! Nearly two full months have passed since that fateful Monday, March 23rd, when our borders and our town businesses officially closed down due to Covid-19. Now that we officially have zero cases of coronavirus in the country of Belize, restrictions have been eased, and a little bit of ‘normal’ can ensue.

Belize: A COVID-19 Free Destination just 1 Flight from North America
With North America being Belize’s primary tourism market and so geographically close, Belize is poised to be an ideal destination once travel reopens for tourism. Belize has successfully contained the first wave of COVID-19 in country, reporting zero active cases since 5 May, 2020. Today, the re-opening of businesses are staggered alongside necessary precautions for a safe, collective future of citizens and guests alike. Although domestic travel is expected to resume first, we want to ensure international travellers know Belize is “the right destination” in a post-lockdown world.

International Sources

CCRIF will be providing up to US$150,000 in scholarships for academic year 2020/21 to Caribbean nationals
CCRIF SPC is now inviting applications from citizens of all CARICOM member countries and associate member countries who wish to pursue study in areas such as disaster risk management, natural resources management, climate change, civil with environmental engineering, actuarial science, and meteorology, among others. Details can be found at: CCRIF postgraduate scholarships, CCRIF-UWI undergraduate scholarships. Application deadline June 15, 2020

Videos

Mr. Locke - Memories of Belize vol. 1, 16min. Mr. Locke sits down to recall people and events from the home country.

Swimming With Nurse Shark In Belize At The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, 1.5min. I traveled to Belize in December of 2019 and took a boat out to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. There is an area near the reef where boats take you out to interact with the wildlife. The boats bait the water to help. Once there, a group of us jumped in to swim with a number of nurse sharks.

Elly Goes to Belize, 24min.

Effective Communication for Tour Guides Webinar , min.

Peter Lawrence on ReefTV, min.

COVID-19 Watch, min. BTB’s Director of Marketing & Industry Relations, Mrs. Misty Michael, along with BTB’s Industry Relations manager, Jocelle Stephen, join Colorblind Productions’ COVID-19 Watch show today on Facebook live. They speak on the effects of the pandemic on the tourism industry and on plans to encourage domestic tourism. Check it out below at the 23:00 minute mark.

Ep. 9 Insiders Live | Belize with Jonathan Part 1, 24min. Jonathan has an Associate’s Degree in Wildlife Biology & Conservation, and has worked for many years with Nikki Buxton, founder of the Belize Bird Rescue. Spend Friday meeting a rainbow of birds and the people who make a difference in their lives! Jonathan will also show off his country's lovely people, ancient Mayan cities and emerald green forests. He goes by two life mottos: “Learning made Fun” & “Changing Lives”.

Ep. 9 Insiders Live | Belize with Jonathan Part 2, 6min.

Despierta Belice May 15 2020, 3hr.

BNTU 2020 Teachers Day Message, 9min.

Ozzy Fest, 48min. If you have young kids at home, perhaps they'd enjoy the Ozzy Fest Live

Belikin Stay Home Party with Mistah Smallz, 2hr.

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen live, 3hr.

Police officers attempting to arrest two persons who were not wearing face masks, 2.5min. A video posted on Facebook shows an argument between a police officer and three persons. The incident happened in Guinnea Grass Village in the Orange Walk District.

UNCOVERING COVID-19 Pandemic: A Channel 5 Special., 2hr.

"Belize inna time of covid 19", 28min. Documentary series, stories of hope from the people of Belize as we watch the global crisis unfold, episode one.

Crocodiles_in_Belize, 2.5min.

Diving in Caye Caulker, Belize- The Great Blue Hole, Nurse Sharks and Turtles!, 4min.

BELIZE - IMMERSIONE 8D, 4min. La Barriera Corallina del Belize è la più Grande Barriera Corallina dell'emisfero boreale ed è seconda solo alla Grande Barriera Corallina australiana. Situata nelle acque del Mar dei Caraibi, in Belize, a circa 300 metri dalla costa a nord, e a 40 km a sud, ha una lunghezza complessiva di 300 km

Scuba Diving Belize - Eagle Ray Canyon Dive Site HD, 5min. Eagle Ray Canyon, one of the many dive sites in Belize. Beautiful coral formation and plenty of sea life.

Acción Deportiva, 32min.

May 15, 2020

FAQ #4 Sitting of CXC Exams

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

State of Emergency regulations relaxed further after a month without cases of COVID-19
In a virtual press conference on Thursday, May 14th, Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow updated the nation regarding COVID-19 and announced further relaxation of restrictions associated with the current State of Emergency. Some of the topics he touched on included the use of recreational areas, the operation of open-air dining areas, limited religious congregations, and stated, “a July 1st re-start for international flights, is the hope for us all,” suggesting that the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) could open in July.

Ministry of Immigration and Nationality Services adjusts Immigration Fees
The Ministry of Immigration and Nationality Services introduced an adjustment to immigration fees effective on May 1, 2020. These new fees apply to entry permits, an extension of visitor’s permits, employment permits, permanent residence permit, temporary residence, and even temporary border permits. The Ministry of Immigration says the last time Belize made adjustments to its immigration fees was around 15 years ago. The previous monthly fee after the first 30 days in the country was $50 BZ, but as of May 1st, the new amount required for further extensions is $200 BZ per month.

Ambergris Today

Notes from PM Press Conference Today, May 14, 2020
NEW SI Implementations start Tomorrow, May 15, 2020 * PGIA - Hope of opening International Airport before Land Borders July opening projected *Domestic Tourism Push by Belize Tourism Board is taking place *People are Allowed to Swim in Sea, Rivers and Pools (Maintain Social Distancing) *Restaurants (Hotel Restaurants too) allowed to operate with outdoor dining & social distancing practices *Masks are not necessary for exercising *Churches can hold services - subject to 10 person limit/social distancing *Social Gathering still at limited to 10 people *Repatriation of Belizean Citizens Abroad Begins - Residents abroad are asked to contact respective Embassies for details

San Pedro RC School Registering Students Through WhatsApp
The San Pedro Roman Catholic School has just recently issued a notice to parents of students that the institution will be carrying out re-registration via WhatsApp and onine form. This is in lieu of precautionary measures taken due to the COVID-19 pandemic and currently being available for re-registration for the new school year 2020-2021. The following are the instructions issued out by the school:

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
The Barrier Reef Sports Bar & Grill has always been synonymous with Fridays on Caye Caulker. During this new normal, it means tomorrow the crew and the rest of the CCSK volunteers will be serving those in need here on our island. Friday, May 15th Meal Pick ups Location: Barrier Reef Sports Bar Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30pm.

There are rules to catch Nassau Grouper!!
20 to 30 inches !! All fish fillet MUST have patch of the skin !!! Please do the right thing !! READ YOUR FISHERIES REGULATIONS!!!!

Ambergris Caye COVID Relief Cookbook
The San Pedro Hot Lunch Program was developed by Maresha Reid, owner of Pirate's Treasure and Pirate's Secret Beach. With the closure of the island, due to the COVID pandemic, Maresha instinctively saw the need to feed the people on Ambergris Caye. She started off feeding 80 people on March 24th, 2020. Currently, she feeds more than 350 people - three times per week. But there are so many more that need help! 100% of the profits from this book will go to the San Pedro Hot Lunch Program, to help ensure no one on Ambergris Caye goes to bed hungry.

Evarista Badillo selected as Mother of the Year 2020
On Wednesday, April 13th, Mayor Daniel Guerrero, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. and Councilor Flora Ancona visited Ms. Evarista Badillo and brought with them a few gifts in celebration of her being this year's Mother of the Year. Ms. Evarista was really happy with the visit as she shared the moment with her family. Congratulations once again Ms. Evarista! The San Pedro Town Council and Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. would like to thank all the sponsors that donated gift items to make this visit extra special, THANK YOU:

The Artist of the Day, Maryam Abdul-Qawiyy
Ms. Maryam Abdul-Qawiyy is an international writer, performance artist, renaissance woman and yoga instructor. She is multifaceted and engages in various artistic fields, attributing this to her passion for creative expression. As an actor, she is a featured dancer in Spike Lee's Oscar-winning “Blackkklansman” and studied at the Susan Batson Studio for Acting in New York. As a performance artist, she's been a featured vocalist in annual Belizean patriotic showcases with the distinguished Francis Reneau, and as a Middle Eastern dance choreographer has performed in the annual regularly dance festival, Dance X Belize since 2013. As a dramatist, Ms. Abdul-Qawiyy has written and directed six original stage plays which debuted at the Belize Women in Art showcase 2014 and 2015, the International Pittsburgh Black Arts Festival, and most recently in Bangalore, India.

My Heritage At Home
How do you practice your heritage at Home? Submit your short video, and you will be showcased on our sister institute ISCR's Facebook page on May 22!

BELIZE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON PSU-GOB DELIBERATIONS
The Belize Chamber of Commerce strongly suggests that both sides of this debate immediately reorient their approach and come together to discuss making government less costly so that each member of the population -including the unemployed- doesn’t have to carry the additional burden of paying $250 each month to maintain a government that is far too costly for our population’s size, unemployment and poverty rates.r of Commerce and Industry reminds the public, as we watch the debate between the Government of Belize (GoB) and both the Public Service Union (PSU) and Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), that according to the latest budget it costs $92,360,747.17 per month in recurrent expenditure, majority of which is personal emoluments, pensions and other benefits to the public service.

10,000 Steps Challenge Winners
Earlier this year, the Nutrition Unit challenged staff at the Ministry to walk more through a competition entitled, the 10,000 Steps Challenge. The aim was to encourage more physical activity; in this case walking, to achieve a healthier lifestyle. At the end of the eight weeks that commenced from Feb 3rd to March 30th, prizes were handed out today to the top four steps finishers. The Ministry extends congratulations to Stacey Jones - 524,502 steps (8weeks), Julainne Elijio - 653,159 (6weeks), Arthur Martinez - 771,811 (8weeks) and top finisher, Patricia Francis - 854,261 (8weeks)

Friday Night Music Fund Raiser for Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen
Tomorrow afternoon we are graced by the presence of Cooper Greer, Kaitlin Rose Parmenter, Neil Schnell, Armando Pao and Gregory Michael. These great artists have generously given up their time to perform for you all and help raise money for the Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen. So don't forget to tune in and watch it live.

BTIA Tourism Bulletin
Our weekly Tourism Bulletin provides industry news and updates on the efforts of our Secretariat. Feel free to read and subscribe!

NO BOLEDO AND NO CASINO TO DISCOURAGE FRIVOLOUS SPENDING
Boledo is a Belizean past time, but it is well understood that today, Belizeans should be spending their monies on their basic necessities and needs during these challenging times. Boledo and Casino are non-essential.

Bowen & Bowen, Ltd now has a free home delivery service in Cayo
B&B | Beverages has now expanded Home Delivery Service to Ladyville, San Ignacio & Santa Elena. Contact us to place your order.

JÉETS' MÉEK'
Mrs Adelita President of To'one Masehualo'on being the Ye Na'(madrina) of Iktan Chuc during the Yucatec Maya tradition known as Jéets' Méek' in the village of Cristo Rey (Corozal) 2018 . Jéets ’ Méek’ also known as the Maya Baptism is rite of initiation to the activities and responsibilities of the individual according to their gender. The objective is to induce children in the various arts of daily life, evoking their intelligence and the different abilities and skills that will appear in the course of their life in this world, making them good men and women of good work and very outstanding in your community.

Corozal House of Culture Art & Soul Series: Mr. Hilberto Trujillo
It's Thursday, which means showcasing one of Corozal's talented artists with our Art & Soul Series! We are delighted to feature Mr. Hilberto Trujillo, artist and educator whose passion for Belize's culture runs deep. Returning from studying art abroad in 2009 he initiated a children's art club in his village of Paraiso. Today he instructs the Visual Arts Program at the Belize Adventist College, along with math and physics. Hilberto has a passion for community and has led several art programs in Corozal Town and surrounding villages; impacting many. He was one of ten artists who participated in Corozal's initial Art in the Park event in September 2009. We look forward to collaborating with him for an online/virtual art program coming in the near future. If you would like to contact Mr. Trujillo please call 655-4604.

Channel 7

PSU & GOB: From Compromise to Crash
When we left you last night - it was with the news that the PSU and the Government of Belize had reached a compromise in their dispute over a salary increment. After weeks of back and forth over whether the annual increment for public officers would be foregone or deferred, the two sides seemed to find common ground. The meeting featured the government on one side, and the PSU, the BNTU and the APSSM on the other. So, things seemed all good until this morning. The Prime Minister opened up an almost three hour long press conference claiming - basically - that the unions had moved the goalposts overnight:

Government Facing Chasmic Deficit
So, we are back to an impasse - the unions on on side; government on the other. And between them a 300 million dollar chasm. That's right, government projects its recurrent deficit will be upwards of 275 million dollars. And, the PM says that when you're 300 million dollars in the hole, the kind of cost savings that the unions are talking about don't count for much:

Closer To A New Normal, The Rollback Continues
That's a costly position to take and later on in the news, you'll hear the PM's answer when we asked him if retrenchment could be in the cards sometime down the road. But, first, to what we've all been waiting for: a greater relaxation in the State of Emergency measures now that Belize has gone 31 days without a confirmed case of the coronavirus. Yes, measures will be relaxed, but not all that much. First off, the curfew remains in effect, and so does the requirement to wear a mask at all times in public - except now during morning exercise.

Face Masks, Until The Big Divev
That was a press conference this morning, and this afternoon, the Attorney General appeared on "Ask The Experts" where he specified the rules for swimming, which includes the use of face masks, until the swimmer actually enters the water.

District Hopping Now Allowed
And while you have to swim by the new rules of social engagement, the good news is you can freely travel to any part of the country for that leisure outing. The Prime Minister said inter-district travel is permitted - but don't try to go to Orange Walk for tacos because those vendor stalls will still have to remain closed:

Belize Looks To July For Tourists
So while Belizeans are now allowed to travel cross district for tourism and recreation, the truth is, those "Queen Betty's" will only go so far to sustain an industry built on yankee dollars. Tourism interests are itching to re-open their industry - and today the PM gave a tentative date, built upon many "if's":

For Belizeans Stuck "Da Foreign"
The Prime Minister stressed that there are many variables in the days ahead which will determine whether that opening date of early July is realistic. This includes the availability of rapid tests and so-called immunity passports. But, Belizeans stuck abroad won't have to wait for all that. Since the end of March they've been banned from interring their country of citizenship. Many are stranded abroad in foreign lands - some are even stranded on cruise ships - and can't touch dry land.

Mennonite Businessmen Can Come Home
So, what about those mennonite businessmen form Shipyard who we told you about last night. They were in the jungles of Peru on business when Belize's borders were closed. By the time they scrambled back to Mexico - there was no way to get in the country. Now, they've been in Chetumal for about 6 weeks trying desperately to get back home.

CARICOM: Cruise Lines Have To Pay For Staff Quarantine
And what about those cruise line employees we've been telling you about? There are a few dozen Belizeans working on Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian who are stuck on their cruise ships - with no way to get home. Today, the Prime M minister said they can come but their cruise ship owner will have to pay for their quarantine - which is a uniform position held region wide:

Crossing The Border
During his session on the Ask the Experts Webcast this evening, Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte shared a few more specifics about how repatriation of Belizeans will work, and what they will be required to do to be allowed into the country: The authorities say that a special Ministry of Foreign Affairs application form will be posted on the covid19.bz website on Monday.

Cayo 5 Caught With Corona Beer
And while there's no tolerance and great risks legally and health wise for border jumpers, the practice continues. That was illustrated today at around 4:00 pm when police arrested 5 Belizean men at the Calla Creek village's illegal crossing in western Belize. The men: 35-year-old Jose Luis Uck,30-year-old Jorje Vasquez, 26-year-old Jovani Salazar, 19-year-old Luis Vasquez, and 42-year-old Lazaro Santos were found having crossed the border with contraband.

The Western Border Opens To Corn Cargo
And while they crossed illegally - today Guatemalan trucks drivers crossed legally when the western border opened under a new protocol. The bridge on the Melchor side of the border had been blocked for the better part of three days when Belizean authorities stopped the free movement of the grain truck across Belizean borders. Today, the Prime Minister explained why they had to intervene:

FFECTAB Fighting Ashcroft Now
Lord Micheal Ashcroft chose to weather the pandemic in Belize - which also happens to be one of the safest countries on earth - if you're watching the coronavirus index. And this morning when he stopped by his television station to appear on Open Yours Eyes on to discuss his proposed 200 million US-dollar Port of Belize facelift, he was met by a small yet energetic group of protesters led by FECTAB firebrands.

Man Charged For Gentle Murder
And while police have their hands filled with State of Emergency arrests they've also made a major break in the murder of Darren Gentle. You'll remember that Darren, the son of Ministry of Works CEO Errol Gentle was executed in Orange Walk on October 23rd in an apparent roadside transaction gone bad.

Mexicans Caught Fishing in B'zean Waters
The Belize Coast Guard is reporting tonight that they picked up 2 groups of fishermen at sea for breaking the fisheries regulations. One group included Belizean offenders, and the other were all Mexicans, who will also face charges of illegal entry into Belize. At around 2:30 a.m. yesterday, a Coast Guard Maritime law enforcement team intercepted a fishing vessel, which was operating in the Corozal bay area. After the lawmen boarded the fishing boat, they found 2 Belizean fishermen from Sarteneja Village. A search of the vessel revealed that they were fishing without a license for their gillnet, which was found aboard the vessel.

Illegally Hunting Sharks In SP
There was another maritime crime bust on Monday when the Team at Hol Chan Marine reserve caught unlicensed fishermen Angel Alfonso Diaz and Ledvin Ixpatac with a nurse shark as well as out of season lobster and conch.

A Rundown Of The New Regs
At the top of the news, we told you how the Barrow Government is relaxing some of the strict State of Emergency regulations, now that Belize has been COVID-free for 31 days and counting. This morning, the Prime Minister briefly discussed them in his virtual press conference. In the afternoon, Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte appeared as a guest on the Ask the Experts Webcast to provide a bit more clarity on what rules are changing and which ones remain the same. Here's what is mostly unchanged. The borders are still closed unless a Belizean stranded abroad has gone through the proper application process to enter legal quarantine.

The Businesses That Remain Closed
And, there are still some businesses and establishments that the Government is not allowing to re-open at this time. Here's what the AG had to say about those this afternoon: "This partying still closed. Sorry ladies, the waxing - well not only ladies, because you have some men wax too, ladies and gentlemen no waxing, no massage, no facials..."

Festival Goes Virtual
For about 15 years on 7news, at this time of year, we have been ending the news with the many hundreds of faces of performers from the Children's Festival of the Arts. But this year the festival of arts as we've come to know it has been deemed too hazardous to go ahead. Adults might say it's just one more loss to COVID-19. But for kids, the importance of the festival cannot be underestimated; it's found in the roar of the crowd, the bright transformative costumes, and the rush of stepping onto the stage.

BHA Thinks of Tourism Employees Who Lost Jobs
Now that Belize has no active case of the coronavirus, the National Oversight Committee has restored some of the freedoms which were taken away from citizens under the regulations. But, the damage caused by the global pandemic, continues to negatively the country's economy. No one knows this better than the more than twenty thousand Belizeans who worked in the tourism industry.

The Gold Book And the Way Back
Earlier in the week, we took you to the Biltmore for a breakdown of the Belize Tourism Board's New Health and Safety Procedures. The measures that hotels are putting in place to guarantee the health and safety of their guests and once the airports open up the entire country of Belize. And to outline those standards with crystal clarity the BTB has teamed up with Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle Magazine to communicate this all-important message to travellers.

Making Electronic Schooling More Available
Last week we brought you an excerpt from a National student union forum in which tertiary students discussed what they characterised as Education Minister Patrick Faber's problematic and blasÃƒ© word choice to describe the current state of web-based learning in the nation's universities. It was a story that upset the Minister enough for him to suggest that the students were being, quote: "led to comment on "diced and sliced" excerpts of his press conference."

Zero From Multilateral Partners In COVID Response
Turning back now to today's Prime Ministerial press conference, which finished close to 1:00 pm, one of our colleagues asked the Prime Minister how much money had been received from the many multilateral partners who have committed to help with the COVID response. As we've reported, government is running its unemployment and relief response on 75 million dollars in advance funds from the Central Bank. But when will the money from the multilateral support agencies come in? The PM says they are still running on zero:

PM Says No to Cash-Strapped Town Boards
The PM estimates that by August, most of the multilateral monies will be in. For local governments though, there is no such relief on the horizon. they are strapped for cash and forced to send workers home. They've asked government to guarantee and overdraft for them as bridge financing and today the PM said "no can do":

Retrenchment Down The Road?
And those tight finances that the PM just described is when regular folks would say "things di buck!" Indeed government's finances are in the gutter and they are facing a recurrent deficit of close to 300 million dollars. A large part of the recurrent budget is the wage bill - which we were alarmed to hear is now listed at 688 million dollars - when two months ago the PM said it was 140 million dollars less!

When Are The Elections Again?
And, finally from the Prime Minister tonight, the press today asked him about that thing that was all the news before COVID-19. We're talking about politics, both the internal kind to select a new leader, and the external kind between PUP and UDP. More specifically, when will the UDP choose a new leader and when will there be elections? The PM said this is not the time for that:

Channel 5

War of Words – PM, P.S.U. and B.N.T.U. Disagree on “Forego”
It is a big day of news. So we start with the negotiations between the Prime Minister, the Public Service Union, and the Belize National Teachers Union. That matter is [...]

If Unions Don’t Agree, PM Will Amend Public Service Regulations
According to the Prime Minister, foregoing increments are required and if the unions continue to reject the proposal, the next step would be to proceed to amend the Public Service [...]

G.O.B. Maxed Out Commercial Borrowing
With a burgeoning deficit of over three hundred million dollars, Prime Minister Dean Barrow says that the time has come to trim emoluments and pensions which stand at a whopping [...]

No Monies from IFIs As Yet
Back in March, the Prime Minister announced that he had secured financial aid from international financial institutions for government’s COVID-19 response. He said that it would come from international institutions [...]

Foreign Reserve Below Three-Month Import Cover
The tourism industry is practically on life support. It accounts for about forty percent of the gross domestic product and is a huge foreign exchange earner. And while domestic tourism [...]

National Curfew Remains in Place!
Turning to the state of emergency…the national curfew remains in place tonight as the country relaxes some of the restrictions in place since April first. And if you expect the [...]

You Can Now Travel Outside of Your District!
As Belize records another day without an active case of COVID-19, the public gets a relief on some of the restrictions. One of the big changes is the allowance of [...]

Rebounding the Economy – a Matter of Priority
The tourism industry is at a standstill and Belize is one of three countries in the region to become the biggest casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, further measures were [...]

Balancing Impact of COVID-19 on Health and Economy
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge negative impact on health and the economy. Lord Ashcroft admits it is not an easy choice when balancing the two sectors, but he [...]

Time is Running Out for Proposed Port of Belize Expansion
A mega project in the tourism industry has been on the drawing board for years. Waterloo Investment Holdings is proposing to invest two hundred million dollars to expand the Port [...]

Will General Elections Soon Be Called?
National elections are scheduled for this year, but the date is anyone’s guess. COVID-19 has put a wrench in most things; the U.D.P. is yet to elect a new leader [...]

Multimillion-Dollar Question: When Will the P.G.I.A. Recommence Operations?
International travel has come to a halt with the closing of the international airport and borders in almost every country. Here in Belize, ports of entries remain close, only cargo [...]

Belizean Students Can Come Home
Dozens of Belizean students remained stuck in different parts of the world when the state of emergency was imposed. They have been unable to return because of the closure of [...]

Illegal Mexican Fishermen Detained in Belize!
Three Mexican fishermen have been arrested for illegal fishing in Belize. The Belize Coast Guard’s Maritime Law Enforcement Team busted the Mexican trio in the Bacalar Chico area around three-thirty [...]

Guillermo Foreman to be Charged with Illegal Entry into Belize
Where is Guillermo Foreman tonight? The Belmopan resident, who was stuck at the Santa Elena border in the north for days and not allowed entry into Belize, remains in police [...]

Butane Cost Increases with New Price Structure
Late on Wednesday night, the long awaited prices for LPG were released. If you have been following the LPG war, the prices is a thorny issue for the ex-importers of [...]

10 People Only Per Church Service!
Back to the ease of restrictions….When it comes to churches and other religious and faith-based groups, there is a small bit of good news tonight – a ten-person per service [...]

Casinos, Bars, Rum Shops Will Not Open!
Shifting to some of the restrictions that have been relaxed for restaurants… Those open air restaurants will be allowed to accommodate diners. But those persons will be limited to ten [...]

Swimming is Now Allowed!
You can also now beat the heat in the pool or river or the sea. AG Peyrefitte says you are now allowed to go swimming but with some limitations to [...]

You Can Now Exercise without a Mask!
And there is a little relief for those who exercise. You are now allowed to run, jog, walk, or cycle without a mask. But again, you are to do these [...]

Blaine, the Ambulance Driver, in His Own Words
On Sunday afternoon near the outskirts of Hattieville, twenty-nine-year-old Blaine Caliz came face to face with a team of officers who trained their weapons on him as he exited what [...]

Blaine Caliz – “Sorry for What?”
Earlier this week, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams demanded an apology from Caliz for his behaviour during the incident and said that if an apology was not forthcoming, charges would [...]

Healthy Living Looks at Exercise Routines during Quarantine
It’s been over four weeks since the last confirmed case of COVID-19 in Belize. Now that the first wave has been contained it has led to some easing of movement [...]

LOVE FM

Increase in LPG Prices
While the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) war wages on between the National Gas Company (NGC) and the former importers, the government has announced new fixed controlled prices for the product. Notably, this was before a start date for the NGC has been announced.

International flights may be allowed back to Belize in a few weeks
In an earlier newscast this week we reported of international flights into Belize already being sold online, particularly on American Airlines. Up to last week, the Prime Minister was not certain that the decision to reopen the airport would be made anytime soon.

Government works on bringing Belizeans abroad home
The Government will begin taking correspondence from Belizean students and citizens abroad who want to come back home. Prime Minister Barrow says the repatriation of those Belizeans abroad will take some coordination but it will get done.

Police officers detain FECTAB members for protesting
This morning members of The Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize (FECTAB) were detained by Police Officers after they gathered in protest on Coney Drive, Belize City. Love News understands that the group wanted to send a strong statement as Lord Michael Ashcroft made an appearance on his television station.

Who will be the next UDP and when will general elections be held?
While the Government is looking to restore the sale of goods and services around the country, there are pending national issues that still need to be addressed. These include the imminent general elections and the election of new UDP leader to succeed Dean Barrow.

Zeta Gas wants to continue importing LPG
Southern Choice Butane, otherwise known as Zeta Gas, has had to close its Belize branches as it waits to refill its stock from the National Gas Company (NGC). Unfortunately for them, the NGC has not told them when they will start commercial operations.

Belize is victorious in the first wave of COVID-19
There is a victory to report tonight in Belize’s success in the first wave of COVID-19. Prime Minister Dean Barrow spoke on the country’s actions and results but cautions on the dangers that loom ahead.

Teaching during a pandemic
While the world celebrates teachers in October, National Teacher’s Day is celebrated in Belize today. This is an unprecedented time for the entire world, but especially for teachers who have to shape young minds in new and innovative ways.

Driver of ambulance explains his side
Tonight, the Police Commissioner is being accused of fabricating a story to cover up a possible hiccup by the Belize Police Department. Earlier this week we told you of the ambulance belonging to Southern Emergency Services that was stopped at a checkpoint in Hattieville, Belize District.

Unions renege on their agreement with the Government over increments
Just when you thought that the unions and the government would be moving forward on the issue of the public officers’ increments, a miscommunication of sorts has the parties back at an impasse. Last night we heard from the Vice President of the PSU, Dean Flowers who reported that yesterday’s meeting with the Prime Minister was cordial, an agreement was reached and the government would not have to act on their threat of amending the Statutory Instrument on public officers salaries.

Car dealer charged for after being stuck at border
There is currently no word on the whereabouts of Guillermo Foreman. The Belizean car dealer was detained by police after he tried to enter the country through Santa Elena, Corozal District.

Local Tourism goes into full swing as restrictions were scaled back
With Belize reaching the 31-day milestone in this COVID fight, some restrictions were scaled back and local tourism is about to go in full swing. As the Prime Minister indicated in his press brief these...

Chamber of Commerce lashes out at the unions for their position
The Belize Chamber of Commerce has issued a release on the current impasse between the Public Service Union and the Government. The Chamber has given quite a scolding to the union stating, quote, “To now...

Breaking Belize News

“Government and Unions approach to cost-cutting unacceptable,” says Chamber of Commerce
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has condemned the approach to cost-cutting measures […]

Police detain several men for illegal border crossing
Today the Belize Police Department detained five men for illegally crossing the western border. Sometime […]

Churches can now open, but with some restrictions
Churches and other houses of worship are now allowed to open under the amended State […]

Ashcroft: Polling in Belize reveals that people think the country is going in the wrong direction
On Channel 5’s Open Your Eyes this morning, Lord Micheal Ashcroft, said that he has […]

Movement between districts restored
Under the new relaxed State of Emergency (SOE) measures, recreational travel between districts have been […]

“Relaxed measures must be enjoyed responsibly,” says Attorney General
Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte said today that the Government of Belize will be relaxing the […]

Is the Coronavirus Pandemic World War 3?
By Gordon Kirkwood: Belize passed its 28th day since its last Coronavirus case on Tuesday May 12th 2020, and even though there has been no official change […]

Lord Ashcroft: ‘Port expansion to provide employment ‘
The Ashcroft Alliance is currently in the consultation processes for plans to move forward with […]

Masks still compulsory; bars, casinos and tacos vendors still not allowed to operate
Belize has gone a month without any new cases of COVID-19, prompting the Government of […]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses support for Taiwan’s inclusion in WHO’s global COVID-19 efforts
Today Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, via social media, expressed continued support for Taiwan’s inclusion […]

Belize is one of 12 countries currently COVID-19 free globally
Today, Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow hosted a virtual press conference to update the […]

National Gas Company begins operations; gas prices hopefully not too steep
The National Gas Company Limited (NGCL), created by statute last year, has officially begun operations […]

Immigration issue at Western Border resolved
Reports are that the issue at the Western border has been resolved and cargo is […]

PM on Superbond payments and financial obligations: “The writing is on the wall”
Prime Minister Dean Barrow, during this morning’s virtual press conference, was reluctant to directly answer […]

Guatemalan cargo trucks allowed to come into Belize
Following an impasse this week, the Government of Belize (GOB) has made provisions for Guatemalan […]

“Who comes next will have to talk to the IMF,” says Prime Minister
Prime Minister Dean Barrow, speaking on Belize’s road to economic recovery after the end of […]

FECTAB members charged for protest
Members of the Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize (FECTAB) are being charged for […]

Prime Minister: No time to think of general elections due to pandemic
The last date for general elections now due is February of 2021. And Prime Minister […]

Agreement between unions, Government rolled back
Prime Minister Dean Barrow says Financial Secretary Joseph Waight has written back to the Belize […]

PM hits Opposition for not giving up allowances
Prime Minister Dean Barrow says it was not his Ministry of Finance that proposed his […]

Belize eases more restrictions; PM says easing not a free pass
As part of the national domestic tourism push, Prime Minister Dean Barrow has announced that […]

Ashcroft: ‘Elections and Boundaries Commission has been delinquent’
This morning, on a segment of Open Your Eyes on Channel 5, Lord Micheal Ashcroft […]

Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 relief fund continues to provide support to Belize
The Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 relief fund continues to provide financial assistance and donations to Belize. […]

PM Barrow to hold virtual press conference this morning, expected to ease some restrictions
Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow, is hosting a virtual press conference today, Thursday, May […]

Belize Superbond sinks following Moody’s downgrade and questions over ability to pay
A day following a credit rating downgrade by Moody’s Investors Services in regards to Belize’s […]

Lord Ashcroft: ‘Local tourism will not be the answer’
Lord Micheal Ashcroft has been in Belize for 10 weeks and has been paying keen […]

Ashcroft: Early election would allow new Prime Minister to begin to resolve issues brought by pandemic
In a segment of Open Your Eyes this morning on Channel 5, Lord Micheal Ashcroft […]

Blogs

Hidden Valley Inn: A Belize Vacation Off the Beaten Path
For those of us feeling pent up indoors, we’re looking forward to some outdoor therapy. When travel reopens, let that be in Belize! Experts predict travel trends after COVID-19 will include venturing to private sanctuaries, natural outdoor escapes, and open air facilities. In Belize, social distancing is made easy with over half of the country covered in lush rainforest and hidden gems off the beaten path. For those adventurous at heart or seeking untouched solitude, add Belize’s Hidden Valley Inn to your future travel plans.

CNN names Belize’s Turtle Inn “Prime for Social Distancing”
Will traveling with strings attached be worth it? CNN Travel names Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn of Southern Belize as “prime for social distancing”. As two-week quarantine requirements around the world become expected amid loosened travel restrictions, summer vacationers will face a new challenge. Is travel with such strings attached worth it?

Belize Hopes to Reopen its International Airport on July 1
The Caribbean country of Belize is preparing to reopen to international visitors on July 1, as the country lays out its exit strategy from lockdown. This date, July 1, would include the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). Today, the Prime Minister of Belize Hon. Dean Barrow has announced the country of Belize is going into a new phase of easing restrictions for both local and international travel. However, that date is extremely tentative on no further coronavirus cases in Belize, with precautionary measures. Additionally, this decision for Belize to reopen the international airport (PGIA) is very contingent on what’s happening in the U.S.A. at the time. Belize has been closed to overseas arrivals since April 5, even to Belizean nationals.

Dive master entertains clients with skillful with underwater bubble rings
Nito, known in the scuba diving world as "Big Sexy" is a very popular dive master. With a serious side, he is an excellent teacher and leader and he is sought after for his professionalism and skill. But he is loved the world over for his charisma and fun-loving side. At the end of a dive on the reefs of San Pedro, Belize, guests asked him to show them his bubble rings, a skill that he is famous for in the scuba world.

International Sources

Caribbean governments advised to cut passenger taxes on air travel to compete
Describing travel as being in a “free fall” and the airline industry as being “bare bones” due to the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19), the trade association for the world’s airlines is advising Caribbean governments to cut passenger taxes if they wish to be competitive when service is restored. Peter Cerda, the regional vice president for the Americas at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), says the state of the global airline sector, including carriers in the Caribbean, is “as bad as one could expect”, and they will need government support to resume any form of service. Cerda, speaking on this week’s Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) podcast, COVID-19: The Unwanted Visitor, warns that the aviation sector will emerge from the crisis with fewer carriers offering leaner services to fewer routes and flying smaller aircraft. And “when it comes to the Caribbean, it won’t be the same market”.

Latin America, Caribbean Tax Mix Vulnerable To COVID-19 Hit
The tax burden in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) increased to a record 23.1 percent of GDP in 2018, according to a new OECD report. However, it warns the territories will face considerable financial pressures owing to COVID-19 because of their systems' reliance on indirect tax revenues. LAC tax revenues remain far below the OECD average (34.3 percent in 2018). Against this background, the capacity to finance public goods and services and to cushion economic shocks in the region remains limited, the OECD said.

GraceKennedy Q1 profit before tax up 50 per cent
While classifying the first quarter of this year as a period of great uncertainty, GraceKennedy (GK) Group yesterday reported that results for the period have been the highest in recent times. “For the three months ended March 31, 2020, the group achieved revenues of $28.85 billion, an 11.3 per cent increase or $2.93 billion over the corresponding period of 2019,” the group said in a news release.

Top 4 Places To Visit In Belize
With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, pint-sized Belize is packed with islands, adventure and culture. Though many visitors barely touch mainland Belize, chilling instead on the tropical cays that speckle the length of the east coast, the visible traces of the world's second-longest barrier reef. We recommend 4 things to do in Belize, Central America.

Large dogtooth snapper fish is a surprisingly intelligent night predator
Scuba divers were returning from a deep dive and making their way through the shallower waters on their return to the boat when they saw that a large dogtooth snapper was following them and using their lights to gain advantage over the smaller fish. Surprisingly intelligent, these fish understand that the smaller fish are distracted by divers and their lights, giving them the element of surprise. Almost 1m in length (2.5feet) and weighing more than 12kg (25lbs), this is a big fish.

Videos

Prime Minister's Virtual Press Conference, min.

Why I Moved to Belize, 15min. Laura Diffendal, IL Belize Correspondent, coming to you live from the island of Ambergris Caye in northern Belize. I want to talk to you today about why I moved to Belize.

Maya Sunset Workshop, 2min. Maya Sunset Workshop is the best place to catch a golden sunset, here you will meet Jorge, a gifted artist who specializes in Mayan carvings.

Zeta Gas explains the lpg situation in Spanish, 8.5min.

Thursday's "Ask the Experts", 1.5hr.

Lord Ashcroft - Update, 80min.

Belize Medical & Dental Association, 42min.

A Scottish Tradition | Burns Night Performances from Belize Part 1, 14min. Burns night or supper; a Scottish tradition celebrating the works and poems of Robert Burns, A Scottish poet. This video is full of amazing performances from a Burn supper organised in Belize.

We Caught Lots of Fish! | Spearfishing Belize, 5min.

ANIMALS OF BELIZE | Belize Zoo and Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge in San Ignacio, Belize, 2min. If you love animals, then this is the video for you! Throughout our time in San Ignacio, Belize, I found myself whipping out my camera whenever we had a new animal encounter. So, I decided to put together a quick video of my favorite moments. Most of these shots are from our visit to the Belize Zoo, and the last two animal encounters are from our stay at Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge. 1. Tapir or "forest cow": Right at the beginning! 2. Spider monkey: 00:17 3. Toucan: 00:52 4. Ocelot: 01:12 5. Puma: 01:24 6. Jaguar: 01:30 7. Grey Fox: 01:45 8. Kinkajou: 01:56

THIS IS BELIZE, 3.5min. My friend and I went to Belize for spring break this year and loved every second of it! Enjoy these clips from San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and San Ignacio :)

Drone over Mountain Pine Ridge, min. We flew the drone over a some places in Mountain Pine Ridge and got a couple amazing shots, so I had to make a short video and share. P.S Try to spot me on top of Big Rock Waterfall.

May 14, 2020

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Two islanders charged for possession of protected Nurse shark and out of season Conch and Lobster
On Wednesday, May 13th, two fishermen from the San Mateo Subdivision, Angel Alfonso Diaz and Ledvin Ixpatac, were slapped with seven different charges after they were detained with out-of-season conch, lobster and a Nurse shark, which is a protected species in Belize. The pair were arraigned at the San Pedro Magistrate Court and fined a total of $5,505 for the charges of Possession of out-of-season and undersize Conch, out-of-season and undersized Lobster, Possession of a Nurse Shark, Not being the holder of a fisherfolk license, and Obstruction.

Maya Mound on Ambergris Caye being looted for black dirt
A Maya Mound in the San Pablo Subdivision south of San Pedro Town, on Ambergris Caye, is allegedly being dug out, and its rich black soil being sold. The site is considered to hold significant Maya heritage, thus its preservation is important. Beyond asking culprits to desist, anyone who knows who may be involved in the alleged digging is asked to make a report to the authorities. The mound’s preservation has been in jeopardy since 2009 when it was apparently sold to a developer. It contains an abundance of black dirt, known as anthropocentric soil. A visit to the area revealed that the site is unattended and filthy with garbage.

Various Belizean Sources

Belize’s western border after the fires is a desolate area
It is obvious that land conversion by Guatemalans from agricultural farming to cattle ranching is the trend. In the Vaca, Caracol, Chiquibul and Columbia River this is an ever growing concern.

Thursday's "Ask the Experts"
Following the Prime Minister's Virtual Press Conference, the Attorney General and Minister of National Security, Hon. Michael Peyrefitte will be LIVE on Ask the Experts, Thursday, May 14th at 3:00 p.m. to discuss updates to the COVID-19 measures.

Virtual Press Conference on COVID-19 Response Measures Thursday
Tune for a live stream on the Government of Belize Press Office Facebook page on May 14, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. as the Prime Minister of Belize, Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow will be hosting a conference to discuss COVID-19 Response Measures.

A whale has turned up dead just outside Belize City
Jamal Galves and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium team are heading to the area to properly examine the corpse to confirm its species and the cause of death. If you or anyone you know has any information, please reach out to Jamal Galves at [email protected].

The Artist of the Day, Richard Pitts
Richard Pitts has been a career musical performer for 15 years and a music educator for 11 years. Richard is known widely as a saxophonist, recognized for his smooth jazz approach to the instrument, and is currently the only Belizean EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument) player. Having taught in every region of Belize, Mr. Pitts is currently settled in Dangriga where he directs the music program at the Stann Creek Ecumenical College and is the founder of the Richard Pitts Music School in Placencia Village, where he is also the most dominant musical performer. His regular weekly shows include "Jazz Night At Cha Chi’s with Richard Pitts and Friends", "Open Jam Session" at Barefoot Bar and Grill, Dinner at the Turtle Inn, and is also regularly contracted to do private functions for numerous resorts in and around that area. Richard is the founder, bandleader, and pianist of the new “GarinaJahz” group which also features a prominent musician within the Garifuna culture.

2nd Edition of printed lessons for Pre Primary, Primary and Secondary school levels
Education on the Move! We are pleased to announce that our 2nd Edition of printed lessons for Pre Primary, Primary and Secondary school levels are now available for download.

Corozal Rotary Food Relief
On April 10th 2020 The Rotaract Club of Corozal in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Corozal embarked on a helping hand initiative to help families most impacted by the Corona Virus with groceries for a month. This small initiative from 5 families has grown to 30 households and 146 hampers across the Corozal District. With your help, together we can reach out to more families.

Belize Bank 2020 Scholarship Program
Attention High School and Sixth Form students ! The Belize Bank is now accepting applications for their 2020 Scholarship Program. Head to https://www.belizebank.com/ to apply !

Caye Caulker Grocery Bag Hand Out
The Caye Caulker Village Council would like to express gratitude to San Pedro Belize Express for a second donation that arrived today and was handed over to the Council. We sincerely thank the company for remembring our community in time of need. Thursday morning the Caye Caulker Village Council will be distributing groceries. If you are NOT on the Hands of Love food program, or receiving any assistance from the the social relief or pantry program from the Government of Belize, please come out tomorrow between 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Community Center to receive a bag of groceries. We continue to do it in this manner to ensure that assistance is being provided to as many community members. Thank you!

New Controlled Prices for Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG)
The Supplies Control Unit (SCU) in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce hereby informs the public that effective today, May 13th, 2020, new fixed controlled prices will be introduced for the sale of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). This change now reflects the sale by wholesale volume and retail sale by volume in both urban and rural areas. Of note, is that this price adjustment reflects an increase in the acquisition price of LPG.

COVID-19 on a Regional Context per the Office of Director of Health Services
With soaring numbers, we cannot forget that all neighbouring countries as can be seen in the graphs are having increasing numbers. The LAC map shows comparative numbers from May 4th & 11th and the other infographic how the last 6 countries (in terms of decreasing numbers of COVID-19) are comparing. The data is as compiled by IDB from multiple sources.

Recommended measures for COVID -19 recovery
Here is a list of recommended measures for COVID -19 recovery for our tourism stakeholders prepared by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation is pleased to provide the tourism sector with recommended measures that they can take as part of Covid-19 recovery efforts. Please visit www.tourism.gov.bz/covidresources to access the document.

Raices Mexicanas - Retonos Belicenos
A dynamic Yucatec Maya dance group from the village of San Joaquin in the Corozal District. Mrs Maria Angelita Alvarez Magana is the founder of Raices Mexicanas - Retonos Belicenos since the mid-1964. The birth of this group can be awarded to a group of young community students with the sole objective of raising funds to purchase a statue of the Patron Saint, San Joaquin for their village. Seeing the enthusiasm of the youths, Ms Magana started to envision greater things for her group and community. As the years went by Ms Magana started to focus more on teaching her group cultural dances which were very popular in the Corozal district.

Join BHA and ViaVenture this upcoming June for a Virtual Tradeshow
The Belize Hotel Association remains resilient! Even during this slowdown, we have partnered with Viaventure Central America to network with our Membership, get to know more about the properties, and talk about future travel plans for when everything comes back to normalcy. If you are a BHA Member, deadline to sign-up has been extended to Wednesday May 13! Contact our team at [email protected] for more info!

NICH Launches Virtual National Festival of Arts 2020
In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic and accompanying social distancing norms, The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) through its Institute of Creative Arts (ICA) has launched the annual National Festival of Arts in a virtual format. This year’s theme is “Creative Resilience – Social Media is My Stage”.

Channel 7

PSU and GOB, Closer To Compromise On Increment
We've been reporting on the dispute between the Barrow Government and the Public Service Union. In the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Belize's economy, like the rest of the world, has taken a massive hit due to the shutdown of the tourism industry, and the State of Emergency, which mandated the closure of all businesses for weeks. The government's revenue base from taxes are way down, and the monthly wage bill for all public servants is around 45 million dollars.

Educ Min. Says BNTU Understands
The Prime Minister is expected to address this issue at the top of a virtual press conference which he is tomorrow morning at 10:00. So where do the teachers stand in all this? The usually vocal BNTU has been noticeably silent on the divisive issue. This evening in a press briefing about CXC exams, the Minister of Education said he feels they support the government's position that this year's increment can be sacrificed: "I want to say that I support the Prime Minister's position fully. But it is not only that I support the Prime Minister's position fully it should be that a good majority of the teachers themselves support the prime Minister's position..."

Western Border Blockade Ends With New Cargo Protocol
The three day blockade on the Guatemalan side of the Western border ended this afternoon. That's after customs and immigration hammered out a protocol to allow the passage of about a dozen Guatemalan 18 wheelers which arrived on Monday to purchase yellow corn in western Belize. They were not allowed to enter because the drivers are Guatemalan - and their COVID status is not known. When that happened, those truckers blocked the border bridge in Guatemala, leaving more than two dozen other large cargo trucks bound for Belize stuck on the Melchor side unable to come across.

Wilfred Would Rather Guat Drivers Not Enter
And while it is an immigration and customs matter, in a sense Belize - Guatemala relations are also the domain of the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Today the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington told us that he would prefer if the Guatemalan drivers didn't come in: "The Guatemalans, apparently, purchase corn from us, and they come in, pick it up, and take it out of the country. But, we've always had some worries about that. Particularly now, the worries have gotten greater because of the blocking and the locking down of the borders..."

The Corn Crisis That Could Have Been
And that compromise had to be made because corn is a really big deal in the west. And after the backdoor cattle trade disappeared, its economic survival has become even more vital to the economy. We found out a little about the scale of the corn industry and its exports when we spoke via zoom conference call to Gilly Canton Jr, the GM of Cayo Grain and Agro Supply Limited: "I don't know the exact numbers on the value on cattle but I can tell you that before the next crop is harvested we have almost 500 thousand bags of corn to move, that's about $12 million worth of corn that we need to move..."

He Wanted to Get Into Belize; He Ended Up In Lockdown
And while that border issue appears to have been solved, there's still another in the news. That's the case of Guillermo Foreman who we have been reporting on for the past two nights. He drove from the US earlier this month, and ended up in a kind of no man's land - stuck at the southern approach of the Chactemal bridge between Belize and Mexico. He was in Belize territory, but stuck there because the border is closed. The Belmopan resident who is returning from the US arrived there on Friday - and was pleading with the government to let him into his country - even if it meant doing a COVID test.

Hon. Sedi's Straight Talk On Stranded Belizeans
Guillermo Foreman now becomes a vivid example of the Government's strict enforcement of the State of Emergency Regulations connected with the closure of the country's borders. But, there are other Belizeans, including students studying abroad, who have been unable to return home for more than a month - since the airport and border closed in late March. Today we asked Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington about them. Those stranded Belizeans have been in contact with the embassies of diplomatic missions abroad that fall under his Ministry, and so, we asked him about his message to those who are stuck out in the cold.

Mennonite Businessmen Stranded in Chet
Among those waiting Belizeans - or big business people that Elrington referred to - are 7 members of the Shipyard Mennonite Community including community leader, Juan Martinez. His community members say his absence at this trying time is especially difficult for the many who depend on his guidance. Martinez had led a group to Peru in March to survey a land purchase. They were deep in the Peruvian jungle when borders started to close, and while they left South America in time they got stuck right next door in Chetumal.

A Timeout For Tacos Means Desperation For Vendors
So, as you can see, the Corona virus has brought hardships to Belizeans abroad and at home. And for food vendors who've had to abide by health and safety measures, it's meant a complete loss of livelihood. And while certain measures have been relaxed this week, food carts remain on the list of prohibited businesses. But there's been some pushback by vendors desperate to earn a living. This morning Cherisse Halsall spoke to two taco vendors fighting through restrictions to earn a living while serving a much-needed budget-friendly breakfast.

Young Men Charged For Ladyville Stabbing
On Monday night, we told you about 61-year-old Michael Avilez. He's the resident of Ladyville Village who was stabbed and robbed by two burglars who broke into his home in the early morning hours of Monday. Tonight, the cops have charged 2 men for that crime. They've been identified to us as 20-year-old Tyrese Gladden, and 21-year-old Shyiem Casimiro. Both men have been charged with aggravated burglary. Casimiro was additionally charged with attempted murder, the use of deadly means of harm, and dangerous harm.

CXC Exams Pushed To July
Normally, the C-SEC and CAPE exams would be underway this month - but due to the COVID 19 - which has forced schools to close all across the region, those CXC exams have been delayed. But, now, new dates have been announced: those exams will be held in July. This is the decision coming out of the First Emergency Virtual Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development - which Beize's minister participated in. He told us about the decision via zoom teleconference today:

Schools Opening Any Time Soon?
And while those CXC exams have been rescheduled, what about schools in general? Is there any plan to re-open? Or any consideration of what might be the way forward when schools do re-open? Faber today said he is not yet ready to scrap the current school year which should have ended in June: "I am still not comfortable and at the point where I can say that in fact we will not resume classes in this current school year and again, we continue to take advice from the health officials, the kind of situation that would exist putting students back in a classroom 30-40 in some instances where it is really bad..."

WHO/Unicef Talks Return To School
And, what is the rest of the world doing? How are they getting ready to go back to school? Today we looked at a W-HO - UNICEF webinar on COVID-19 and schools. They looked at the full issue including the downside of keeping kinds out of school for extended periods. Here's a small clip from that: The webinar recording can be accessed here.

Zeta Gas Talks Business Disruption
Last night on the news, we told you how Southern Choice Butane, formerly known as Zeta Gas, announced publicly that they no longer have any cooking gas to sell to its customers. As a result, the company closed all of its branches countrywide. They are among former Central American importers of LPG who have gone to court to challenge the Barrow Government's change in the regime. Southern Choice, Gas Tomza, and Belize Western Energy all held licenses to import butane into Belize, but at the end of April, those licenses expired.

A Tragic Whale's Tale
This morning, video of a whale carcass off a mangrove island started making the social media rounds. And while for many it was a sad but interesting curiosity, Manatee man Jamal Galvez saw it as a tragedy. Within hours Galvez along with the Wildlife Conservation Society's Nicole Gomez was leading a team to perform an assessment. And this afternoon as the team returned to shore, Gomez told us what they were able to learn even though they were unable to do a necropsy.

The Givers That Keep On Giving
Last night, we told you how the Belize Indian Community was moving around the different constituencies of Belize City to spread a bit of humanitarian cheer to needy city residents who have been devastated financially by the coronavirus pandemic. Well today, they were in the Pickstock division to deliver food packages to residents through their area rep., Wilfred Elrington. We stopped by this morning to speak with the donors and the recipient of this aid from the Indian Community. Here's what they told us about how it will work for residents from that division:

Another Across The Southern Border
Earlier in the week, we told you about incursions across Belize's closed southern borders. Two persons were caught crossing that border, but, now, a 23-year-old Guatemalan woman has been caught in Punta Gorda town. Police apprehended Yesenia Neomi Hernandez Lima at a house in the town told the cops that she's been in the country for 2 months, a claim that they can neither prove nor disprove because she had no passports or documents of legal entry only an identification card.

Moody's Downgrades Belize Over Superbond Worries
A major investment rating agency has downgraded Belize. Moody's Investors Service, today "downgraded the long-term foreign-currency and local-currency issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings of the Government of Belize and changed the outlook to negative from stable. A release says, quote, "Moody's decision to downgrade Belize's rating reflects the increased and now very high probability of a deferral on interest payments or distressed exchange on Belize's market debt as a result of the severe economic shock the country is experiencing due to the coronavirus outbreak that has collapsed the country's tourism receipts.

Channel 5

Guatemalan Truck Drivers Speak to News Five on Protest
Tonight, the situation at the western border involving cargo trucks has been resolved and traffic is now flowing freely. For two days and a half, the truck drivers from Guatemala [...]

Immigration Minister says New Protocols Are for Public Safety
This afternoon, Immigration Minister Beverly Castillo informed News Five that cargo is moving. After a meeting today, a set of protocols was established to allow Guatemalan truck drivers to enter [...]

Melchor Mayor Comments on Protest by Guatemalan Truck Drivers
Belizean representatives in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which included Said Badi Guerra, met with his Guatemala counterpart, Edgar Aguilar and the mayor of Melchor de Mencos, Amado Yanez to [...]

Guillermo Foreman is Taken into Police Custody; Will He Be Charged?
At the northern border, a Belizean, who had been stranded there since last Friday, remains in a conundrum tonight. Under the State of Emergency, Belizeans are being denied entry except [...]

Cooler Heads Prevail Between P.S.U. and G.O.B.
Another dispute that was bubbling is also been ironed out. The Public Service Union, the Belize National Teachers Union and the Association of Public Service Senior Managers met with Prime [...]

Education Minister Says G.O.B.’s Request in not Unreasonable
Education Minister Patrick Faber has also weighed in on the matter in respect of teachers and their allowances, as they, too, are being affected by the fiscal crunch. Faber says [...]

New Selling Price of LPG, Zeta Gas Wants New License to Import
An LPG dispute has been taking place for some time. Tonight, there is an answer to one of the thorny issues involving prices. Before a release from the Belize Bureau [...]

Zeta Gas on Impact to Employees, Customers
Southern Choice Butane Limited is one of six former LPG importers whose license has expired. That company supplies thirty-percent of the industry in Belize. Today, Zeta Gas Rep Ernesto Wu [...]

NGC Says Distribution Imminent
The commercial operation start date for the National Gas Company was set as May first – but it is thirteen days past that. So, what’s been the hold up? Is [...]

Wholesale and Retail Prices to be Released Soon!
As you heard just now, Doctor Canton says that the price setting exercise will help to determine the wholesale price for local distributors. That price, up to the time we [...]

Destruction of Clandestine Airstrips Continue
The destruction of several clandestine airstrips across the country is an ongoing exercise being carried out by the Ministry of National Security, in light of their usage for the illegal [...]

Baby Caal’s Cause of Death Yet to be Determined
The official cause of death of a five-month-old baby girl from Bella Vista Village has yet to be determined. A post-mortem examination has not been conducted on the body of [...]

CXCs to be Taken in Early July
High school students across the region, including Belize, will sit the annual CSEC exams at the beginning of July and will now only have a little over six weeks to [...]

UB Students can Visit Campus in PG for Online Courses
Students attending the University of Belize, those in the far-flung communities in the Toledo District will be able to travel to Punta Gorda to access the internet in order to [...]

Faber Still in the Race for U.D.P. Leader
“Faber for Party Leader” is a campaign slogan that former Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber very much intends to revive once the existing COVID-19 threat subsides. Faber told the media [...]

Family Homeless after House Collapses on Mahogany Street
The Smith family of Mahogany Street is homeless tonight. As Elizabeth Smith and her five children were in deep slumber on Tuesday night, their house collapsed. Luckily, they were not [...]

San Pedro Belize Express Gives Back!
The San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi made two COVID-19 relief donations today. The first donation comprises food packages to almost fifty families in the Majestic Alley neighbourhood of the [...]

A Dead Whale in Belize – No Answers on Cause of Death
A dead whale was discovered this morning in the vicinity of Drowned Caye. It’s not a usual occurrence to find such a large whale dead in very shallow waters. Local [...]

Be on the Lookout for a Manatee Entangled in a Gillnet!
And on the topic of marine animals, there is a manatee that needs help somewhere in our waters. Local manatee conservationist Jamal Galvez is asking the public to report any [...]

383 Bird Species Spotted in Belize for Global Big Day!
Last week we told you about “Global Big Day” which was being observed on Saturday. It’s a single day out of the year when birders all over the world try [...]

The Reporter

Accident on the Haulover Bridge
There are reports of an accident on the Haulover Bridge between two trucks which were wedged together, blocking the bridge. Traffic was blocked up and authorities worked to clear the obstruction.

Dead whale off the coast of Belize City
Today a team from Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute and WCS Belize responded to reports of a dead whale off the coast of Belize City, near the Drowned Cayes. The whale approximately 18m/59ft male was identified as a baleen whale. The exact species of whale is currently being determined. When you think of large animals, you might have visions of elephants or hippos. But even those large animals can't compete with the animal group of baleen whales. These are the largest animals on the planet, and there are twelve different species of baleen whales. Some of the whales included in this group are blue, gray, and humpback whales. Baleen whales can be found in every ocean on the planet.

Traffic block at the Western Border
The traffic block at the Western Border with Melchor, mainly by Guatemalan truckers wanting to bring in their cargo into Belize is a matter that is being worked out diplomatically between our two countries’ Ministries of Foreign Affairs. The situation at the Western Border is different from that of the Northern Border, in that up north, the containers that the Mexican truckers bring are unhinged at the border and then brought in by their Belizean counterparts. However, when our law enforcers tried to introduce that practice at the Western Border, they met strong resistance from the Guatemalan truckers, who decided to park their trucks at the border, creating a bottleneck with traffic flow and also successfully impeding our Mennonite farmers from taking their produce across to Guatemala. The situation is expected to be resolved sometime this week, perhaps as early as later today.

LOVE FM

Education Minister of CARICOM makes agreement with Belize on CXC and CAPE
The Caribbean Examinations Council announced recently that a portion of the CXC and CAPE papers will be done in July. Initially, Belize was uncertain if they would be participating in this year’s exams but following a meeting with the Education Minister of CARICOM, an agreement was reached.

Harmonyville; Part two. ?
More than two dozen persons have taken control of private lands in the west for agricultural purposes. The squatters are now feeling threatened following an advisory from the Lands Department. Reporter Alisha Valentine has the story.

Students studying abroad must wait until borders are reopened to return home
Ever since the Government of Belize announced that the borders would be closed to both locals and foreigners, students studying abroad have been forced to remain where they are despite exploring various avenues to come home. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington spoke with the media and explained that these students will have to stay put until the borders are reopened.

Online classes the future for the education system?
The Covid-19 pandemic has pushed persons from around the world to transition to online commerce, online learning, online meetings, and other virtual engagements. Health officials are currently preparing for the second wave of COVID -19 but what are the decision-makers in the education sector doing to move away from the traditional classroom setting to online schooling.

Faber speaks on his candidacy for UDP party leader
With things transitioning to the new normal following the first wave of COVID-19, Love News sought some clarity on where the United Democratic Party is on selecting a new leader. Faber didn’t have much to say on the new date for the convention but he did speak on his candidacy for leadership.

Belize gets another downgrade on its credit rating from Moody’s
Belize’s credit rating has fallen for a second time in 30 days. Moody’s Investors Service published its report yesterday, downgrading Belize from a B-3 score to CAA1 under the foreign currency category.

Indian community donates food packages to families in Belize City
Today, the Belize Indian Community (BIM) continued its initiative of handing out food packages to various families of the Lake Independence constituency in Belize City. Approximately 50 people received their food packages which contained rice, beans, flour, cereal, and other basic food necessities. According to the Honorary Consul General of India in Belize, Arun Hotchandani, the Indian communities in other districts have started to adopt the initiative.

Wooden house collapses middle of the night with five children
A mother and her five children were disturbed in the middle of the night last night when the house they were sleeping in collapsed. The family had already retired for the night when a consistent cracking sound was heard coming from under the house.

Progress reported between the PSU, BNTU and the Government
The impasse is over and there is a framework to be fleshed out following a meeting between the Government of Belize, the Public Service Union, and the Belize National Teachers Union.

Miscommunication with Guatemalan truck drivers led to a protest in the western border
On Monday morning Guatemalan truck drivers were blocked from entering Belize at the Melchor de Mencos Bridge halting the trade cycle for a few hours. Since then Love News found out that this was because of the COVID-19 regulations set in place by the Government of Belize. In speaking with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington he explained that due to these regulations truckers are asked to stop at the border for Belizean truck drivers to carry the cargo within the country.

Body of 5-month old awaits a post mortem at the Southern Regional Hospital
The body of a 5-month old baby is at the Southern Regional Hospital awaiting a post mortem examination. The baby passed away yesterday evening after ailing with a high temperature and respiratory issues. Reports are that Baby Kynslee received a vaccination shot on May 8 and started running a fever almost immediately. Police have categorized […]

Breaking Belize News

https://www.breakingbelizenews.com/2020/05/13/nemo-minister-provides-food-for-frontline-workers/NEMO Minister provides food for frontline workers
As a show of gratitude and appreciation to frontline workers in the battle against COVID-19, […]

McNab Publishing continues to support tourism sector through concessionary rate for exposure
Following its “Brands Helping Brands” initiative to assist the tourism sector with the economic impact […]

Dead whale found near Belize City coast
Manatee man, Jamaal Galves, informed today that the team at Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute […]

Government issues new controlled prices for Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG)
The Supplies Control Unit (SCU) in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce today informed […]

GOB and unions reach compromise on cost saving measures, Prime Minister will not amend regulations
The Public Service Union announced today that the joint union negotiating team and the Government […]

Former Prime Minister Said Musa recovering at home
Former Prime Minister Said Musa was hospitalized last Friday with symptoms of a mild stroke. […]

National Gas Company makes first LPG sale – to BNE
The former petroleum exporters based in Spanish Lookout, Belize Natural Energy (BNE) have acquired a provisional […]

Councilor Micah Goodin to build new home for displaced single mother
Belize City Councilor, Micah Goodin, is set to build a home in the Lake Independence […]

Caribbean Lifestyle’s Belize Gold Book re-imagined for tourism health and safety
McNab Publishing Limited is re-imagining its Caribbean Lifestyle’s Belize Gold Book, which was to launch […]

Zeta Gas calls for re-opening of LPG imports
Zeta Gas/Southern Choice Butane promises in its advertising to “keep your fire burning,” but its lights […]

Belizean stranded at Northern border detained by police
Belizean national, Guillermo Foreman, who had been stranded for days at the Northern border has […]

Moody’s downgrades Belize’s economic rating to negative from stable citing concerns about interest payments on commercial bond
Moody’s Investors Service, in its latest rating of Belize published yesterday, has downgraded Belize’s long-term foreign-currency […]

U.S. Embassy continues to provide support to Belize amidst COVID-19
The United States Embassy in Belize continues to provide logistical support to Belize amidst the […]

U.S. Embassy’s Acting Deputy Chief of Mission shares more about CARSI on COVID-19 watch
On May 12, the U.S. Embassy’s acting deputy chief of mission, Beverly Mather-Marcus shared more […]

Teachaz Da Gold!
By Rudolph Neal: I Teachers are pure, absolute Gold, With a wealth of knowledge and wisdom untold; They […]

Carnival gets 600 percent more bookings for August cruises
Could Belize see a tourism boost earlier than expected? With Prime Minister Dean Barrow suggesting foreign […]

Belize remains free of COVID-19; Central America and Dominican Republic approach 25,000 cases
Belize’s number of COVID-19 cases remains steady at 18 as of yesterday, but the worry has […]

Blogs

My Quarantine “Home Base”: A Stone’s Throw From Our Spot on Ambergris Caye
500 feet, give or take a hundred, is pretty much my roaming range these days. More correctly, my dog walking range. Luckily, it’s a beautiful area – and since I’m not getting out and about much at all, I thought I’d share yesterday’s picture of my range with you. I live in a tiny subdivision about 7 miles north of San Pedro town – there are 3 other houses built. And to the north of me is LOVELY Tuto Belize. To the south, the resort Xtan Ha.

10 Facts About Belize You Probably Didn’t Know
Belize is only a few hours by air from the United States and Canada, yet many travelers know little about this Central American jewel. Below, you’ll find 10 interesting facts about Belize. Belize is the only Central American country with no coastline along the Pacific Ocean. It does, however, have the world’s second largest barrier reef system in the world.

A 2020 Special Edition: The Gold Standard for Belize Travel
The destination’s primary marketing agency – the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) – has been working with industry partners to develop a core set of health and safety guidance for the travel industry to adapt. Widespread education of these new protocols is key to potential visitors feeling safe to travel to Belize again. Therefore, McNab Publishing Ltd. (MPL) will merge Caribbean Lifestyle’s Belize Gold Book (set to debut in June 2020) with Belize’s new Gold Safety Standards to create the Tourism Health and Safety: The Gold Standard for Belize Travel. Through collaboration with the BTB, this 2020 special edition magazine will feature travel industry guidance and safety policies for Belize alongside a comprehensive travel guide of crucial marketing collateral, advertorials, captivating photos, and more.

International Sources

Coronavirus update in Quintana Roo
Currently there are 1144 positive cases. Othon P. White increased from 34 to 35 positives.

High contagion areas in Chetumal
These are the high contagion areas in Chetumal, according to the geo-referentiation where the largest number of reported cases of COVID-19.

10 ways to be a better traveller in a post-lockdown world
Well-known travel publication Condé Nast Traveller UK has featured Belize’s eco-friendly hotels in its article, “How to Become a Better Traveller in a Post Lockdown World.”

The safest vacation? Your own private island
While nearly all leisure travel remains paused because of the coronavirus pandemic, the demand for private islands is on the rise. The privileged few who can afford such extravagant isolation are exploring their options with new fervor. The spike in bookings for the island he personally owns and rents out, Gladden, in Belize's Barrier Reef, illustrates the growing inclination toward privacy. Krolow says that while it was always popular, it quickly got almost fully booked for the rest of this year after Covid-19 gained traction.

Belize could delay coupon payment, says Moody’s
Central American sovereign Belize, which last restructured its international debt in 2017, is likely to seek to delay a $13m coupon payment due in August on its only external bond, believes Moody’s. With tourism estimated to account for as much as 40% of the gross value added in the country’s economy, as well as 42% of Belize’s goods and services exports, the country is one of the most vulnerable to the Covid-19 economic shock. Even before the virus hit, triggering a ...

Belize 2034 bond sinks following questions over finance capacity
The price on Belize's 2034 sovereign bond fell precipitously on Wednesday, a day after Moody's Investors Service downgraded the government's sovereign credit rating, questioning its ability to make interest payments on the debt given its tourism sector has suffered from the coronavirus pandemic. The 4.9375% February 2034 bond fell 11 points in price to bid 40, pushing the yield up to 16.88%, according to data provider Refinitiv. As recently as late February, the yield had been as low as 10.15% before steadily climbing as the pandemic deepened in the region. The current yield has not been this high since the bond was restructured three years ago.

Caribbean tourism has been decimated by COVID-19
We are all in the same COVID-19 storm, but not all countries are in the same boat. Here in the Bahamas, 70 per cent of our gross domestic product (GDP) is generated from tourism. Tourist-based economies like ours throughout the Caribbean region have limited social safety nets. This means our people, economy and future are far more likely to be wrecked by COVID-19 than nations with more diversified economies. Today, airports and hotels here are shuttered, unemployment throughout the region is soaring, and nobody knows when these tourism sector jobs may come back.

Caye Caulker Power Scheduled Outage
Power outage 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15 to affect portion of Caye Caulker Village: Avenida Langosta, Estrella Street, Aventura Street, Playa Asuncion, Calle Al Sol, Pasero Street, Avenida Hicaco, Alux Street, Calle Aguada, Date Lane, Calle Al Posa, Park Street, Beachfront Street, Calle Alemandro, Hattie Street. BEL crews to replace utility pole in the area.

National Competitiveness Month Webinars
BELTRAIDE is celebrating National Competitiveness Month with a series of free business webinars. Check out their website for more information, and registration. The first webinar is the Friday at 10:00am, and covers digital marketing.

Webinar on Friday: Navigating the New Norm
BELTRAIDE is celebrating National Competitiveness Month with a series of free business webinars. Check out their website for more information, and registration. The first webinar is the Friday at 10:00am, and covers digital marketing.

Videos

This is Tropic Air - Belize Travel, 4min. I spent a week with Tropic Air, in San Pedro, Belize. Tropic Air looks after all your local air transportation needs, flying you in Cessna Caravan Aircraft, powered by the highly regarded Pratt and Whitney Canada PT6A engines. Their aircraft are maintained to very high standards, by a dedicated and passionate team of people. Whether you are taking a local flight from Belize City to Dangriga, or Placencia, or a sightseeing trip to see the famous "Blue Hole" from the air, you will be taken well care of. If you are lucky, you'll get a front seat, alongside the pilot. If you enjoy flying, you'll love Tropic Air. It's what flying is all about!....

Channel 5 Obituaries - PEARL BERNANDA ARZU WADE, 2min.

Dance routine for this year's virtual Belize National Festival Of Arts, 1.5min. We are heading West! With a dance entitled "Made for Now" by Jediah and Clihanna Martinez from St. Andrew's Primary in Cayo! Remember to like and share all the entries, let's keep the support going.

NA MINÚSCULA ILHA | Provei a COMIDA mais TRADICIONAL de BELIZE | Caye Caulker, 9min. Sem dúvida esse foi o melhor lugar que visitei em Belize. Caye Caulker é uma pequena ilha do Caribe localizada no lado leste do País. A ilha é tão pequena que você pode conhece-la por inteiro em uma hora de caminhada. O lugar não possui estradas pavimentadas e apenas carrinhos de golf elétricos e bicicletas servem de transporte em um cenário que mais parece ter saído de um filme, onde os moradores são bem tranquilos e vivem uma rotina sem estresse ao lado de palmeiras enormes, mar azul, areia branca, turistas e muito reggae. Confira!

Thrilled swimmer meets manatee on the reef in Belize, .5min. Nito, known in the scuba diving world as "Big Sexy" was swimming on the reef in his home in Belize. San Pedro is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and it has some of the most abundant and beautiful life, above and below the waves. Big Sexy is a world famous scuba dive master who leads his clients on explorations deep below the surface. After the diving is done, a stop at a reef that is part of a protected marine conservation area is always a welcome part of the day.

BELIZE ZOO & ALTUN HA | BELIZE, 6min. We went to Belize city to visit the zoo & the famous mayan ruins Altun Ha.

Darina Museum in Libertad Village, 15min. Let's take a tour of the Darina Museum in Libertad Village with proud Garifuna woman and curator Mrs. Simeona Zuniga! This post was originally part of our International Museum Day activities in 2018 where we were able to introduce Corozal's cultural museums to the world via Facebook.

Mr. Faustino Yam, curator of the U Kuchil Maya Uchben Baalo'ob Museum, 1min. And retired educator fluent in Yucatec Maya language engages with children teaching Yucatec Maya.

Virtual celebration of Europe Day 2020, 23min. The EU Ambassador to Belize, Ambassador Malgorzata Wasilewska, was our guest to talk about this year's virtual celebration of Europe Day 2020. The day is set aside to commemorate the creation of the European Union. The theme for this year is "Stronger Together" and Ambassador Wasilewska explained that in this COVID-19 era there is much benefit in collaborating for development.

Legacy Fund Limited, 46min. Ervin Perez is the Managing Director of Legacy Fund Limited. We invited him to share his recommendations on how we can recover the economy. He talked about increasing our exports in the region and diversifying our revenue streams to supplement tourism dollars.

Healing Touch Day Spa, 36min. Healing Touch Day Spa walked us through the basics for an at-home massage session. If you are in need of some pampering this segment shared how you can take items you have at home to have a relaxing session.

SAN PEDRO BELIZE EXPRESS DONATES FOOD ITEMS TO THE ISLANDS , 8min.

Belize Trip 2019, 8min.

Introduction To The Ocean Academy, 24min. We'd like to introduce you to the school, the students, and the Ocean Academy philosophy. Many students featured in this video took part in the 2019 Digital Silence Networking and Security Course.This is who we are raising money for during #BucksForBelize

The Salvation Army Belize District Home League May 13, 2020, 65min. The Salvation Army Belize District Home League May 13, 2020 Mother's Day Celebration.

Blue Bonefish Lodge, Belize, 2min.

Acción Deportiva , 33min.

May 13, 2020

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Trust for the Americas Official Launch of the Ad-hoc Multistakeholder Open Government Steering Committee
As part of the second phase of an Open Government project: Transformation to an Open Public Administration in Belize, The Trust for the Americas in coordination with the Organization of American States (OAS), announces the official formation of an Ad-hoc Multi-stakeholder Steering Committee: The Belize Open Gov SC. This Open Government project, through funding support from the US Embassy Belmopan, is working to strengthen the creation of networks and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, supporting a longterm process to spur innovation, improving local government services, and activating international support mechanisms for enabling Belize to join the Open Government global movement.

IDB reports deteriorating tax revenues in the region
The report states that the increase of 0.4% points from 2017 to 2018 is the highest level of tax revenues ever recorded for the region. Belize recorded an increase of 1.4 percent, one of three countries recording the largest tax revenue increase (Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana being the other two countries). However, those LAC tax revenues are still considered far below the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, averaging a mere 34.3% in 2018. This limits the LAC’s capacity to finance public goods and services or to cushion economic shocks in the region.

Ministry of Natural Resources Issues Statement on Squatting
It has been brought to the Ministry’s attention that unauthorized individuals are involved with private lands in the Agricultural Area of Cotton Tree Village, near the Benny’s Warehouse at mile 44, George Price Highway, Cayo District. The public is advised to be cautious not to engage in activities that lead to the illegal disposal of land and unauthorized occupation as persons will do so at their own risk.

Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce Announces Third Annual Competitiveness Month
The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce (MITC) through its statutory body, the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), along with several of its key regional and private sector partners, is teaming up to host a virtual Competitiveness Month 2020. Competitiveness Month, which began three years ago, is a month-long series of activities that aim to strengthen competitiveness in the private sector through the enabling environment created by the government.

Ambergris Today

Caye Caulker Unites To Feed Its Villagers In Need
The sun shines bright on the island of Caye Caulker as businesses and individuals unite to form a feeding program that supports much of the island’s residents that are in need. Caye Caulker has always been and remains COVID-19 free. However, with no tourists here to enjoy the tropical paradise, even to date as Belize has opened itself up, the unemployment is in the 85% range.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Wednesday, May 12th Meal Pick Ups Location: Fantasy Dining Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30pm. Thanks for bringing your containers and bags!

Happy Nurses' Day
The Minister of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin all smiles today with the Nurses at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Belmopan. On behalf of the Minister of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin and the wider Ministry of Health Management and staff, a Happy Nurses' Day. Missing from the photo, we also salute, Nurse Lorna Perez, surveillance Officer and Nurse Donovan Cacho, Health Planner at the Ministry.

Belikin Stout Chocolate Bar
There's a Belikin Stout Chocolate Bar! The Belize Chocolate Company has teamed up with Belikin to create it, and it can be bought at the Belikin Store online.

Lord Michael Ashcroft Relief Fund Donates $1 Million For To Ministry Of Health For Covid19 Supplies
h ntr f lth ught urt frm th Lrd hrft Rlf Fund mmtt t rur muh-ndd ul t fght gnt th VD-19 ndm. h mmtt rndd nd ftr dun wth th ntr nd mmttd t urtng th fnnng f rtl mdl ul. h mmtt h ndd $1,296,415 twrd th qutn f th fllwng:

Virtual Information Hub in partnership with the Child Development Foundation
IOM’s Virtual Information Hub in partnership with the Child Development Foundation (CDF) is intended to provide vital information to migrants in Belize (in English and Spanish) during the COVID-19 crisis. Part two of the information session will take place on May 13, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The session will focus on Risks for Gender Based Violence for Migrant Populations, including: Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, and Accessing Help.

NGC REFUSES TO DISCLOSE SALE PRICE OF BUTANE/LPG
Despite repeated request by the former importers of LPG, the monopoly NGCL has refused to answer their questions regarding the new sale price for butane/LPG. Gas Tomza Ltd, Zeta Gas and Belize Western Energy Limited (BWEL) have all written to the Belize National Gas Company (NGCL) individually, to attain the new price regime for LPG and the start date of sales since their licenses to import LPG expired on April 30, 2020. Those correspondences did not achieve any result. Subsequently, their attorney wrote to the BNGC and the Belize Bureau of Standards on May 6, 2020 to:

King's College Application Form
King's College invites those interested in attending the school to click on the link and apply.

COVID-19 UPDATE
This is our testing data up until today. The persons being tested are for the most part being from random samples being taken across the country as is the 'persons under investigation'. The second infographic is the regional Central American data where numbers continue to rise in most countries. Our work continues.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS - OUTSTANDING FISHER OF THE YEAR 2020 AWARD
Submit your completed nomination form explaining why the nominee should be recognized as the Outstanding Fisher of the Year 2020. Submissions MUST include: 1. Your name and contact information 2. The fisher’s name and your relationship to him/her 3. Number of years nominee has been fishing 4. Whether he/she belongs to a cooperative and/or association; and the name of the Cooperative or Association AND 5. A copy of the nominee’s fisher-folk license...

Galen's SGA has 72 online tutoring slots for secondary and primary students
Let them know if you'd like to schedule one.

Francis Canto Jr on the Global Big Day
Join us tomorrow, May 13th at 10.00am for another Facebook Live as Francis Canto Jr talks about our results on the Global Big Day!

Repatriation Flights to the USA
United Airlines flight UA3044, which departs Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) on Thursday May 14, 2020 at 12:00 noon and arrives in Houston at 15:28 pm, is fully booked. If you are a passenger on this flight, please read the following important information concerning your safe departure from Belize. If you are not a passenger on this flight but are still interested in repatriating to the United States, please skip to step number 5.

The Artist of the Day, Chanelle Parks
Chanelle was born in Belize City on October 20, 1992, and grew up in the Lake independence area, until 2003 when she moved to Belmopan. She is currently employed as a Forensic Analyst at the National Forensic Science Service Laboratory. She has been singing since the tender age of 2 and has been performing professionally since 2010. Her love for music stems from both parents, she got her singing voice from her mother and her love of diverse genres of music from my father. She has sung with the University of Belize Choir, Belmopan Choral Society, and Allegro Music School Choir and has performed with Francis Reneau yearly since 2012. However, she became more of a household name when she participated and placed third in Channel 5’s show “If You Can Sing It, Bring It” in 2014.

"Stitching Connections during Covid-19: Belize's Northern Maya Association Embroidery and Huipil Design Project"
Learning how to express our identity! A wonderful initiative by Banquitas House of Culture and the Northern Maya Association. The great news is that we have our Corozal trainer being trained in order to bring the program to the Corozal House of Culture. Stay tuned for future program dates.

Channel 7

No Word On Way Forward After First Wave
29 days has passed without a positive COVID test in Belize, and many are asking what's next? Well, yesterday the National Task Force, chaired by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition met in a video conference to discuss options for the way forward. And today, Cabinet met to go over those recommendations and make its own deliberations. But, right now, the final result of those remain Cabinet confidential. The Prime Minister made no national address today, but he is expected to do so tomorrow or, at the latest, Thursday.

Strike On The Western Front
But, first, to the western border, which remains blocked with Guatemalan grain trucks tonight. As we told you last night, about five 18 wheelers from Guatemala which are here to purchase grain from Spanish Lookout have blocked the bridge on the Guatemalan side. They've come from far away, and in a type of strike action - say they aren't moving anywhere unless they get to pick up the grain. But, the Immigration Department doesn't want to let in the Guatemalan drivers, and - we are told - the proposal is for Belizean towheads to pull in the trailers, as is the practice in the north.

DHS Says "Keep On Truckin'"
But, as we said, neither the trade nor the economy is the first consideration, health is foremost. Belize has no active COVID cases right now - while truckers at the border come from Guatemala, Honduras and Salvador - all countries with active cases. But, is there an acceptable risk and a middle ground to keep the economic interests going? When we asked the Director of Health Services yesterday on Ask the Experts, he seemed to think so:

The Desolation of A Car Salesman
And while the protest at the western border continues one man is making protestations about being barred entry from Belize. Last night we told you about Guillermo Foreman, a Belizean who's stuck at the Chactemal bridge waiting to get into the country. Well, tonight he's still there with no prospect for entry, and no choice but to keep begging health authorities to let him in. As we've told you the borders are closed and have been since March. Foreman told The Reporter that he left the US on May the 6th, knowing that Belize spent the month of April in the State of Emergency but not knowing that it had been extended for another 60 days.

Was It The Vaccine?
The Ministry of Health is investigating the sudden death of an infant child in Independence Village. Yesterday evening, 20 year old Alfredo Caal and 18 year old Filomena Ical both from Bella Vista village showed up the Independence Poly clinic with their 5 month old child, Kynslee Jasmin Caal. The child passed away shortly after arrival at the clinic and appeared to be having respiratory issues.

He Stole Power; His House Burnt Down
Last night, we told you about the distress that 29-year-old Dorian Garnett is currently facing. His home in the windmill area of Hattieville Village was destroyed by fire on Saturday night. He told us that he was in Mahogany Heights when he received multiple phone calls that his house was on fire. A second account, which police got, was that he and another person got into an argument inside the house. That other person reportedly lit the house on fire. You'll also remember that in his interview with us, he claimed that someone intentionally burnt it down.

Can Tourism Come Back Without Greenbacks?
Last week during a virtual Press Conference, the Prime Minister mentioned that swimming with social distance would be allowed as early as this week. And while that's a relief for everyone trying to beat the heat, swimming is a major draw for weekend excursions to tourist destinations and could be the impetus for local bookings. It's a measure of relief for a suffering Hotel Association having to adjust to lower traffic and much higher standards. This morning we spoke to Hotel Association President Ted Tejada who says that while the airport remains closed, hotels are making themselves more open than ever to domestic tourism.

The Secret To 4 Weeks Without A COVID Case
29 days without a positive COVID test - Belize is one of only 12 countries in the world with that distinction. And, if you look at the trends in this region, everyone's curve is going up, while ours has flattened. Panama, for example has 8,616 cases with 249 deaths, while Guatemala has 1,114 cases with 26 deaths. But, right now, Belize has zero active cases, and of course, two deaths. While the deaths are truly sad, overall, we have fared off much better than our neighbours and the rest of the world.

Judges vs. Doctors, Who Should Get Paid More?
And while it is left to be seen if the government now relaxes that Phase 3 level response, we had a real sidebar conversation with Dr. Manzanero. We asked him how much he is getting paid, in the context of how much medical professionals are paid in the public healthcare system, generally.

Butane Supplier Closes Branches Countrywide
The battle over the local supply of liquified Petroleum Gas is continuing this week, and one of the former Central American importers is reporting tonight that it has no more cooking gas to sell to its customers. Southern Choice Butane, formerly known as Zeta Gas, Gas Tomza, and Belize Western Energy Limited are currently in Court against the Barrow Administration for the creation of a new regime, which unseated them as importers of LPG into Belize. They say that the government-enforced change in the market is unjust, and a constitutional challenge to that change is pending in the Supreme Court.

BDF Destroyed Toledo Clandestine Airstrip
13 days ago, the BDF blew up an illegal airstrip in the vicinity of Machaquilha Village, in the remote southwestern reaches of the Toledo District. A release says the BDF Explosive Ordinance Team was deployed to conduct demolition operations to deter the landing of illegal aircraft. The release adds that quote, "specialized rigging was initiated and the entire 750-meter runway was loaded with over 2000 plus pounds of High Explosives to enable its destruction. A total of 11 craters measuring 6' in depth by 10' - 12' in diameter was placed on the runway to render it inoperable."

Putting Out Forest Fires, A Team Effort
Over the past 2 weeks, we've been reporting on the wildfires that were wreaking havoc in the Cayo District, and smoking out major communities nearby. Well, a joint press release from all the organizations involved in the fight against these fires, says that the situation is under control, for now. That release notes that downpour over the weekend brings an end to the weeks of firefighting effort by the Forest Department, the Fire Department, the Towns, and City Councils many other partner organizations, including PACT, BECOL, and several conservation NGO's.

Indian Community Care Packages
The COVID-19 financial crisis has brought Belize even harder times than usual, but it's also revealed a philanthropic spirit among the many Belizean businesses that have offered a helping hand to the most needy. We've told you about the food packages provided by Belize City's Indian community and today we caught up with them as they prepared to hand out 200 additional packages to the residents of the Collett area. Dinesh Bhojwani, Former President of the Community says plans are in the works to extend their food assistance efforts for a longer period of time.

Belize Needs More Nurses
Since, last Wednesday, the nurses of the world have been celebrating International Nurse Week 2020. It's a particularly timely nod of respect to these healthcare workers. They are currently on the front-lines of the global coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed 290,000 lives around the globe. Nurses week concluded with International Nurse Day, which was observed today. To say thanks to the almost 600 nurses in Belize's healthcare system, two of the leading figures in the profession made an appearance on the Government Press Office's Ask the Experts webcast. Here's a short excerpt about the challenges that nurses in Belize are currently facing, while on the fight against COVID-19:

A Caye Caulker Kitchen
Earlier in this segment, we told you about grocery food packages being distributed in Belize City, but there's also relief for the Caye Caulker villagers. That's because of a Soup Kitchen started by Peggy Clark of Bondi Beach restaurant and carried on by John Newhouse and his team. It's a major effort supported by 11 restaurants and 50 volunteers providing daily meals for 350 needy island residents.

Mourning Fuego
In late April we brought you the story of Fuego the Kinkajou, a victim of the western fires, being nursed back to health by the Belize Wildlife Referral Clinic. Tonight we have the unfortunate task of informing you of his passing. Fuego had been electrocuted while attempting to escape his rescuers and while his burns had all but healed, the electrocution burns severely compromised him.

Channel 5

Illegal Airstrips Destroyed in Toledo
Several clandestine airstrips have been identified for destruction in the Toledo District where an operation led by the Belize Defense Force will continue to see these makeshift runways being destroyed [...]

Placencia Beaches Disappearing Due to Dredging
There is significant beach erosion near Maya Beach in the Placencia peninsula. In the area, the beach has eroded up to fifteen feet. Residents say that dredging for a marina [...]

Southern Choice Butane Closes All Branches
The war waged by the former LPG importers has moved to another level. Today, Southern Choice Butane (Zeta Gas) announced that it is shutting down operations countrywide. Fifty employees are [...]

Former LPG Importers Say B.B.S and N.G.C.L. Playing Hard Ball
The three former LPG importers, Gas Tomza, Zeta Gas and Belize Western Energy Limited say they have still been unable to get the new price regime for butane from the [...]

Former LPG Importers Asked to Reveal LPG Inventory Data
According to Attorney Audrey Matura, while the former importers are unable to receive an answer from the National Gas Company as to the sale price, the Belize Bureau of Standards [...]

Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund Donates $1.3 Million to the Ministry of Health
Lord Michael Ashcroft will be on Open Your Eyes this Thursday morning and we’ll hear from him on a wide range of issues, including the shocks caused by the novel [...]

Reopening Local Tourism; Great Deals for Belizeans to Overnight at Hotels Across the Country
Belize, along with Barbados and Bahamas, is being cited as the three countries in the Caribbean region hardest hit in the tourism industry by the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that [...]

When Will Belize Open Up to International Tourists?
Local tourists only contribute to ten percent of the revenues collected by hoteliers across the country; the bulk of its income is made by international tourists who would take advantage [...]

Hotel Restaurants & Pool to Be Reopened to Guests
It is expected that later this week, restaurants at hotels as well as pools will now be allowed to be open to guests. Belize Hotel Association President and General Manager [...]

A Guideline for Hotels/Resorts Going Forward with COVID-19
The tourism industry in Belize collapsed as soon as COVID-19 began to spread in the region. As early as January of this year, hoteliers began experiencing cancellations in reservations and [...]

Five-Month-Old Baby Girl Dies Days after Being Vaccinated
The cause of death of a five-month-old baby girl is under investigation tonight. The parents of baby Kynslee Jasmin Caal rushed her to the Independence Polyclinic on Monday evening after [...]

Was Ambulance Driver Justified in Sunday’s Frightening Ordeal?
The sighting of heavily armed police officers with guns drawn at an ambulance transporting a patient has triggered debate and raised questions about the driver of vehicle as well as [...]

Director of Health Services Comments on Guatemalan Truckers
At the western border cargo trucks are still lining up. The Ministry of Immigration intervened on Monday after Guatemalan truck drivers blocked cargo trucks, coming from Guatemala, from entering Belize. [...]

Guillermo Foreman Remains at Northern Border
Belmopan resident Guillermo Foreman remains stuck at the northern border. He has been there since Friday after he made his way from the United States through Mexico. He was in [...]

Are Hoteliers Willing to Accept Repatriated Belizeans for Quarantine Period?
One last issue on the tourism industry…In his press conference last week, Prime Minister Dean Barrow spoke about the repatriation of Belizeans stranded in other countries. They are expected to [...]

Public Service Union Calls Out G.O.B. on Wasteful Spending
The Public Service Union and the Belize National Teachers will meet with the Prime Minister, Dean Barrow on Wednesday to iron out issues regarding the government’s proposed cost-saving measures. G.O.B. [...]

Nurses: A Voice to Lead; Nursing the World to Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has shed further light on the critical work that nurses do to save lives. International Nurses Day was observed today across the globe to recognize the noble [...]

A Salute to Nurses on the Frontline of Belize’s COVID-19 Response
National Nurses’ Week is celebrated from May sixth through to May twelfth. On the culmination of this globally recognized event, today the Acting Deputy Director of Health Services Ann Matute [...]

Shortage of Nurses in Belize – an Ongoing Challenge
One of the pressing challenges facing the healthcare system in Belize is that there is a shortage of nurses. Currently there are eight hundred and ninety eight active nurses, with [...]

There is Mental Health Support for Nurses
So, hospitals are understaffed as it relates to nurses, which results in nurses being overworked. And because of this, many nurses may experience fatigue and other stresses that come from [...]

200 More Food Packages Courtesy Belize-Indian Community
The Belize-Indian community made an eight thousand dollars donation for underprivileged families who are feeling the economic pinch as a result of COVID-19. That eight grand is only a fraction [...]

BELTRAIDE Hosts Virtual Competitiveness Month
BELTRAIDE is taking its competitiveness month activities online. It’s the unit’s approach to adapt to the current state of affairs due to COVID-19. BELTRAIDE and its partners will hold a [...]

Are You Ready for the Ozzy Challenge?
Across the country, thousands of primary school students remain at home where they have been since March twentieth when classes were called off due to the COVID-19 threat. The extended [...]

Police Draw Weapons to Stop a Presumed Runaway Ambulance
An ambulance was stopped by heavily armed police at the Hattieville junction on Sunday afternoon. It was coming from Hopkins in the south and was transporting a patient accompanied by [...]

Police Department Demands Apology for Ambulance Fiasco
Even though the police department found out that the ambulance was in fact transporting a patient, and so the life of a the patient was at risk, the Commissioner of [...]

Amandala

Doctor criminally charged for treating 3 police officers
The Belize Medical and Dental Association (BMDA) issued a press release today saying that it is “appalled by the recent cases of ill-treatment of our doctors.” The BMDA release comes on the heels of a doctor being arrested and criminally charged for violating a section of the State of Emergency (SoE) regulations which prohibits doctors from engaging in private practice while employed by the government during the SoE.

If no COVID-19 case after 28 days, SoE restrictions will be eased: PM Barrow
By the end of today, if no one in Belize tests positive for the novel coronavirus, 28 days will have passed since there has been any new confirmed case of the virus in the country. While we are not yet out of the proverbial woods, so to speak, the 28-day milestone is important, because it will bring an easing of some of the State of Emergency restrictions as the country’s economy continues to stir into life slowly. On the other hand, if the virus re-appears in a second wave, that would lead us right back to the severe restrictions that have characterized the first State of Emergency (SoE) that government implemented in the fight to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Police forced to stop ambulance at gunpoint
This afternoon, an ambulance transporting a patient to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) was forced to stop at a checkpoint in Hattieville after it refused to stop at two prior police checkpoints before the Hattieville checkpoint. In Hattieville, heavily armed policemen determined to stop the ambulance pointed their firearms at the approaching vehicle, forcing the driver to stop. Police said that the vehicle was checked and searched and nothing was found in it except the sick patient who was being taken to the KHMH, and her companion, and they were allowed to proceed.

Outboard engine thieves busted through Facebook sale
Two men who allegedly stole a Yamaha outboard engine from a boat in Driftwood Bay, Belize City, have been arrested and charged with theft and possession of stolen goods. They have been detained pending arraignment at the Belize City Magistrate’s Court. Reliable information is that the engine owner reported the engine stolen, and yesterday, while scrolling through Facebook posts, he saw his engine being sold on Facebook.

156 persons arrested on Mother’s Day
Despite numerous warnings from police and the Attorney General of Belize, Michael Peyrefitte, that a curfew is still in place and that Belize is still in a State of Emergency, members of the public continue to violate the regulations that are in place and thus continue to be arrested. Today, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams announced that 156 persons were arrested on Mother’s Day and charged for offenses under the Emergency Powers Regulations.

Government is flat broke!
Prime Minister Dean Barrow called a virtual press conference from his Belize City office this morning and laid bare the facts that the government is broke and that the country’s economy has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which is a health threat that the government is still trying to confront and avert. Barrow also addressed the standoff between the government and the Public Service Union (PSU), which recently rejected government’s proposals to freeze increments for the next two fiscal years.

Dangerous weapons found in Dangriga
This morning, an operation was carried out in Dangriga to disarm gang members, and during that operation two combat-type firearms and a revolver, along with a large quantity of ammunition, were found in an abandoned house. At the time, no one was in the area. One of the firearms which were found is an AK47 assault rifle that has a range of over 1,140 feet and can also be fired as a machine gun.

109 arrested for violating curfew and State of Emergency regulations
Despite the stern warnings issued by the Attorney General, Honorable Michael Peyrefitte, some members of the public continue to violate the curfew and the State of Emergency regulations, and arrests continue to be made. Those found guilty face fines of $5,000, or 2 years in prison. Today, Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, said that 48 persons were arrested and charged countrywide yesterday, Friday, May 8, for various offenses under the Emergency Powers Regulations:

Former Prime Minister Said Musa recovering from “mild stroke”
The former two-term Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Said Musa, the Opposition People’s United Party area representative for the Fort George constituency, is currently hospitalized and is recovering from a mild stroke, according to a social media post from members of his family. This morning at his virtual press conference, Prime Minister Dean Barrow began by saying, “Allow me the opportunity to express my best wishes for a speedy recovery for the Right Honorable Said Musa, the ex-Prime Minister of Belize. I understand that he was last night admitted to the hospital, having suffered what was described as a mild stroke. I’m sure that I join all other Belizeans in wishing him a speedy and completed recovery.”

Guatemalan found with loaded assault rifle and grenade in Santa Cruz
A Guatemalan national was busted with a loaded assault rifle, with a scope on it, in a house in Santa Cruz at about 3:00 this morning during a special operation conducted by police. The cops also found a 9mm pistol and a .38 Special revolver, along with a smoke grenade. The man was arrested and charged with possession of a prohibited firearm, and two counts of possession of unlicensed firearms. He will later be arraigned on the charges.

Editorial: PSU: We have ideas to help. GoB: Just give up the increments
At a press conference called last Thursday, the Prime Minister said that he finds it unacceptable that the Public Service Union (PSU) is balking at proposals (really a directive) that they, public officers and teachers, accept giving up their increments for fiscal year 2020/2021. The PSU had agreed to have their increments deferred. The Prime Minister said he was “utterly confounded” by the intransigence, of particularly the PSU, that “in the middle of this widespread social and economic devastation…they refuse to make even the tiny sacrifice” that his government is asking of them.

PM confirms — no help for municipalities
Last month, the mayors in the nine municipalities of the country were all informed that they should cut their operating costs. The mayors were hoping that after the lockdown is over, they would be able to get some kind of assistance from central government. There was no response to their correspondence on the question of assistance from government, and as the easing of the state of Emergency measures begins to take effect, the municipal bodies are returning to work to find that the lockdown has devastated their finances.

Belizeans warned not to go into Mexico
Although there are presently no known COVID-19 cases in the country, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services, continues to call on Belizeans to remain vigilant and not to take things for granted. He reminds all persons in the country to continue carrying out the necessary measures to combat the spread of the virus by carrying out social distancing, washing the hands regularly, and wearing face masks when out in public.

Ambassador Daniel Gutierrez speaks to KREM Plus
Belize’s Ambassador to Washington, His Excellency Daniel Gutierrez, told Evan “Mose” Hyde, Jr., on the 8th episode of the show, Talk To Mi, on Krem Plus, which is a Youtube channel, that the Belize Embassy in Washington D.C. has been closed for the past three weeks because the entire state of Maryland, USA, is under a state of emergency. Gutierrez said the incidence of COVID-19 is much less in Maryland than it is in New York, but they have been told to expect an uptick in cases of the disease in the near future. In the meantime the three diplomats at the Belize Embassy in Washington are conducting business from their homes in the state.

From the Publisher
The Russians celebrated the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II last week, but it was not until August of 1945 that the Americans, who were in alliance with the said Russians and the British, dropped atomic bombs on two Japanese cities – Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Presumably, this was how Washington chose to end the war in the Pacific theater which had begun when the Japanese attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbor in December of 1941.

Football Flashback 6 – Updating players list for 1970s
Our population couldn’t have grown that fast, so we suspect it had to do with the heavy turnover rate of players on teams as more and more young people joined the Exodus north to the USA, resulting in new young recruits being promoted to 1st Division football; but we have compiled a huge list of players from the 1970s period, and more names keep coming in. Over the past weekend, our former Charger teammate Lewis “Lee Buck” Belisle, Jr. added a few names to our list of Mid-1960s to Late-1970s players; and Lee Buck also provided for us the first name of the great “Negro” Hall; he says his first name was Hubert.

Can’t say enough about the work of Ms. Deltrude and Mayor Wagner
I want to say to Belize City Councilor, Ms. Deltrude Hilton, and to the Mayor of Belize City, Mr. Bernard Wagner, and all the other people who have a hand in helping the homeless persons in Belize City, that I pray God blesses you for having a heart and the common sense to do right by people who are in need. It is unconscionable to leave our brother or sister sleeping on a piece of cardboard in the streets. Just about the most preposterous thing I’ve ever heard is that it is a violation of people’s rights to take them off the streets, if that is where they want to be. Heck, there are vagrancy laws, and those must have been on the books for centuries.

China’s congenial aggressive foreign policy and quest for global dominance
The death toll from the unleashing of the Wuhan coronavirus is approaching three hundred thousand with over three million tested positives globally. These numbers are expected to continue to explode. Meanwhile, it’s impossible to verify since it’s widely suspected that many nations are underreporting cases, tracking, and testing. The Wuhan coronavirus created a global impact that is unparalleled in modern world history. Its effect has been felt in some of the most remote places on the planet and in the heart of the largest metropolis in the world.

Baby Arreini is “christened”! Jewel pregnant again!
Feeling alone in the darkness and silence of the night it had been difficult to fight the despondence brought on by these thoughts; and, before she knew it, water had begun to pour from her eyes and she, who rarely cried, had been unable to stop their flow. She had tried, unsuccessfully it had turned out, to muffle the sound in her pillow. Having no idea how long the crying fit had lasted, she had turned over and shifted her position at one point only to find herself with Jerome’s arms around her comforting and consoling her.

Cuba rejects Bolivia’s “pretexts” for suspending relations and targets the US
Díaz Canel’s government maintains that the United States has pressured Bolivia to “impose the deterioration of relations with Cuba.” On Friday, Bolivia decided to “suspend” relations with the island due to the accusations made by the Cuban foreign minister against President Jeanine Áñez and her government.

The high crime rate and poverty are a reflection of our quality of national leadership
Dear Editor, In March 2020, Belize imported $174.1 million worth of goods, up 18.2% or $26.8 million from March 2019. In March 2020, Belize exported $26.7 million. That’s a trade deficit for goods of $147.4 million. Although we have tourism and other services, every year Belize has a huge budget deficit. If we want to have a better standard of living for us and future generations, Belize has to change course.

Coronavirus: Wuhan in first virus cluster since end of lockdown
New coronavirus clusters have been reported in Wuhan city – where the virus first emerged – and the north-eastern province of Jilin in China. Wuhan reported five new cases on Monday, after confirming its first case since 3 April on Sunday. Authorities said the small cluster of cases were all from the same residential compound.

LOVE FM

Fire in Hattieville completely destroys house
On May 9 a fire in Hattieville, Belize District completely burned down a house near mile 16. No one was injured during the fire and according to the National Fire Service, the house was connected to the power lines illegally. In speaking with the Station Supervisor Kenneth Mortis, he told Love News that investigators visited the premises yesterday and shared with us the findings of their investigation.

Nurses Day 2020
Today, May 12 marks the ending of nurses week and is observed as International Nurses Day. President of the Nurses Association of Belize, Darrell Spencer sent out his message to all the nurses across the country thanking them for their service.

MOH appoints a new Deputy Director of Health Services
The Ministry of Health has appointed a new Deputy Director of Health Services and Nurse Registrar. Nurse Lisette Belle will be taking up the post of Deputy Director while Eleanor Bennett has taken up the post of Nurse Registrar.

BNTU comments on cutbacks proposed by Government
The Public Service Union (PSU) has made its position clear on the foregoing of increments for public officers.

Amid the celebration of nurses, local authorities say there is a massive shortage
Belize is experiencing a shortage of nurses for our public health facilities. According to the Acting Deputy Director of Health Services, Nurse Ann Matute, this is one of the reasons they have been forced to accept help from other countries to staff the medical facilities.

Teenager goes on remand for slapping his mother
A teenager is at the Belize Central Prison after slapping his mother who refused to give him money to buy bread. 18-year-old Jordan Lamb of Belize City went before Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts-Anderson yesterday and pleaded guilty to a common assault upon his mother.

Acting Deputy Director of Health Services explains how nurses dealt with suspected and confirmed cases of Covid-19
With the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic over and done with, our newsroom was able to ask Acting Deputy Director, Ann Matute on how the nurses were assigned around the country to deal with suspected and confirmed cases of Covid-19.

Persons arrested for having a house party
As many as eight persons were arrested over the weekend at a house party. Police in Belize City were alerted of the social gathering taking place in the Lake Independence Area on Sunday night.

PUP parliamentarians have not been asked to take a cut to their allowances
Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno has confirmed with Love News that the PUP Parliamentarians have not contributed a portion of their allowance towards the Covid-19 cutbacks. The question arose out of an ad that the United Democratic Party (UDP) released this week, indicating that while thousands of citizens, government workers, and the private sector are being forced to adjust to the economic hardships brought on by COVID-19, the opposition side of the House of Representatives has not authorized any cutbacks on their personal allowances.

Fourth formers lament on missing out on graduation and prom
Gowns, tassels, prom dresses, and corsages – these are only some of the things usually on the minds of fourth formers as the month of June approaches. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has pressed pause on these traditional major events.

LPG companies still waiting on NGC
The other suppliers of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have also written to the National Gas Company about the same issue, that is, what will be the wholesale price of the product. Additionally, their attorney, Audrey...

Zeta Gas closes its Belize branches
Southern Choice Butane Limited, also known as Zeta Gas, closed its district branches this morning after their inventory was depleted. The company wrote a letter to the Controller of Supplies at the Belize Bureau of Standards,...

BDMA condemns ill treatment of Doctors
The Belize Medical and Dental Association expressed their frustration via a Press Release issued over the weekend condemning the abuse of Doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The release went ahead and added that the Doctors have been on the front line risking their lives, working long hours, giving up time with their family and children during this difficult time for the safety of our people and being repaid with ill-treatment.

Breaking Belize News

U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Keith Gilges recovering well in the US, thanks Belizean wellwishers
Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Keith Gilges is recovering well in the United States after being flown […]

“Waves of COVID-19 will continue until a vaccine is developed,” says World Health Organization official
According to Dr. Hans Kluge, Europe Director for the World Health Organization (WHO), countries around the […]

Ministry of Health launches investigation into death of 5-month-old child
The Ministry of Health (MOH) confirmed today that it has launched an investigation into the […]

Nurses Association of Belize wishes all nurses Happy International Nurses Day
The Nurse Association of Belize (NAB) issued a statement wishing all nurses a happy International […]

“Lives R Not Games:” Pupa Curly’s song for our times
Despite having been produced a year ago for his now-postponed album Edutainment, “Lives R Not […]

Gas war continues: Zeta runs out, NGC waits on GOB
As Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) stocks immediately available for distribution dwindles, the National Gas Company […]

National Hurricane Center issues special tropical weather outlook for Atlantic
This morning, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued a tropical weather outlook for the Atlantic […]

Belize National Association of Realtors back with a bang!
Contributed by Belize National Association of Realtors: Belize National Association of Realtors® is proud to announce that it’s […]

No football until July, says FFB
Following a Congress of the Football Federation of Belize on Sunday, May 10, it was […]

Five-month-old infant dies after receiving vaccine
Authorities are investigating the death of a 5 month old infant. Around 6:10 p.m. yesterday, […]

Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 relief fund donates over $1 million for medical equipment to Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health sought support from the Lord Ashcroft Relief Fund Committee to procure […]

Santa Elena teen wins second place award in CARICOM essay competition
By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: Sixteen-year-old Santa Elena student, Simone Ann Cruz, a fourth former at Sacred Heart College […]

Blogs

Whose Handling The Food?
In the country of Belize, food is a common topic right now between groups trying to make sure people do not go hungry and those who are trying to navigate personal grocery shopping in a COVID world. On Ambergris, I know I am not the only one who does not like it that they do not get to pick their fruit. We deal with it; just learning I was not alone made me instantly let it go. Ordering vegetables online from the mainland, I never think twice about what is being picked and sent fresh for me – I love it all.

American Airlines and Southwest to bring back International Flights
Over the last few months, international travel has come to a screeching halt with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing on. In the Caribbean, Belize ranks with Barbados and the Bahamas as among the most exposed in the world to the sudden pause in global tourism. Notably, the hospitality industry (including airlines) have likely been the most affected. Travel restrictions, immediate border closures, and reduced service contributed to travel disruptions. And though Belize’s borders remain closed, international travel remains open for a select few countries in the Caribbean. This week, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines announced that international flights to the region will slowly resume in the coming months.

Condé Nast Traveller lists Belize as “The Right Destination”
Once travel re-opens, it’s hard to imagine what that may look like. But one thing is for sure – things are going to be different. And those differences are, in many ways, going to be good. After so long at home, this is an opportunity to rejoin the world with a gentler approach, to be more compassionate and holistic in our outlook and to align the way we travel with the efforts we make to live sustainably, healthily and thoughtfully at home. And we’re here to help kickstart the journey. So when you do start preparing for your next trip, here’s 4 reasons why Belize is “the right destination” post-pandemic, by Condé Nast Traveller.

International Sources

Twenty-Third Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
The Twenty-Third Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held virtually on the 7-8 May 2020, under the Chairmanship of His Excellency Dr. Claude Joseph, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of the Republic of Haiti.

Win a family trip to Belize
The Belize Tourism Board has launched its ‘Dear Belize’ virtual postcard competition. One lucky travel agent could win a trip for two to explore the Central American country, when normal travel resumes. All entrants need to do is create a short video about why they want to visit Belize, starting it with ‘Dear Belize’ and submit it online by May 29, 2020.

Moody's downgrades Belize on 'high probability' of delayed payments
Credit rating falls to Caa1 from B3 and outlook is revised to negative. Moody's said on Tuesday it cut the sovereign foreign currency credit rating for the central American nation of Belize to Caa1 from B3 citing an "increased and now very high probability" that it will either defer on interest payments or enter into a distressed debt exchange because of the economic stresses imposed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Belize: Destination for Developing Our World’s Exploratory Trip in 2021
Despite being a small country, Belize has an incredible diversity culturally and ecologically. Unfortunately, there are several threats to the ecosystem. Belize’s marine resources and forests are under significant threat, principally due to high deforestation rates, rapid coastal development, improper solid waste management, weak legal and institutional frameworks, rising poverty, and recently, the discovery of sweet crude oil.

Videos

Tuesday's "Ask the Experts", min. In celebration of International Nurses Day, Ms. Anne Matute, Acting Deputy Director of Health Services and Nurse Eleanor Bennett, Registrar, Nursing and Midwives Council joined us at 3:00 p.m. on Ask the Experts.

COVID-19 Watch, 2.5hr. To empower you to be in the best position to avoid contracting the newest 'coronavirus', COVID-19 Watch will discuss it all; best practices, self isolation, quarantine and more!

Happy International Nurses Day, .5min. To all nurses, in Belize and all over the world, thank you for your service! Happy International Nurses Day from the Government of Belize Press Office!

BelizeOn - providing an online platform to connect Belizean consumers & Belizean products, 30min. Online shopping is quickly becoming a part of the new normal. BelizeOn has answered the call by providing an online platform to connect Belizean consumers with Belizean products. We talked with the team about the service and how you can access it to source your shopping needs. Kay Menzies - Co-Founder, BelizeOn. Michael Fuller - Marketing Manager, BelizeOn.

Caribbean Communities (CARICOM) essay writing competition, 1.5min. 16-year-old Simone Ann Cruz, a fourth former at Sacred Heart collage is the second-place winner for the Caribbean Communities (CARICOM) essay writing competition. While juggling online classes, Cruz set aside time for research to formulate a groundbreaking essay. Cruz’s essay entitled “How does consumer protection law benefit me and my region?” was shortlisted by the committee as the second-place winner in the age 16 to 19 years old category.

Hermie Derby. Week 8: Hermit Crab Races at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar, 62min. Tuesday evening isn't complete without Hermit Crab Races at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar! Thankfully you don't have to miss the fun as they now host it virtually each week! Yahoo...go Mr Crab (and we aren't talking about Rob) !!!!

WANARAGUA. 2019. NEW YEARS. DANGRIGA TOWN,BELIZE, 15min.

Calypso Rose - Fire In Belize, 7min.

Belize stew chicken, 7min.

BELIZE 2019, 3min. Last summer, I volunteered with Frontier on their diving and marine conservation project. Joining this project was probably the best decision I ever made. During my time there I met the most amazing people from all around the world, and I'm forever thankful we crossed paths.

The Public Service Union and the Belize National Teachers' Union - Part 1, 40min. Dean Flowers - First Vice President/Public Relations Officer. Elena Smith - President, BNTU

The Public Service Union and the Belize National Teachers' Union - Part 2, 32min. The Public Service Union and the Belize National Teachers' Union were our guests to discuss the on-going deliberations over the government's cost-saving proposal to cancel this year's increments due to public servants and teachers. Our guests discussed their recommendations for alternative ways to cut national spending in the wake of the strain caused by the COVID-19 economic crisis. They explained the focus should be on better financial management eliminating unnecessary spending and wastage.

A True Caribbean Island Paradise - Caye Caulker, Belize, 15min. During our stay on Ambergris Caye we decided to go on a day trip to the tiny island of Caye Caulker, a little bit further south. We heard about it from other travellers and it was highly recommended so wee took the water taxi from San Pedro to check it out. We stumbled upon a true Caribbean island paradise, where time doesn't seem to be in equation to anyone. The sandy streets, palms, mangroves and of course the authentic locals made a deep impression on me, which i guess will last for quite some time. Have to back here sometime....

Onsikilbii Boox Bu'ul part 3, 2min.

San Pedro Scenes, 1min.

May 12, 2020

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Tuesday, May 12th Meal Pick ups Location: Food Republic Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30 pm. Please continue to bring your containers and bags. Thanks!

Belize Emergency Relief Report
We thank you for your patience as we gather numbers together. Please find our report attached for the week of April 29, 2020 food deliveries and community support. This was week 2 using our gofundme funds, aside from our private donor that helped us the first 2 weeks. Week 3 numbers will be ready this week for the delivery we just did.

Fuego the kinkajou passes away
It is with great sadness that we share that Fuego the kinkajou who became a victim of the fires, and then eletrocuted on his attempted escape, passed away last night. He had been so fortunate to have brave rescuers and many cooperate to bring him to care where he had shown miraculous stamina, spirit and initial recovery for 8 days. His burns had all but healed but his electrocution injury was still severely compromising. And then he developed pneumonia (despite antibiotic coverage) and despite our best efforts he did not pull through that. We are heartbroken and sorry to share sad news but this is unfortunately a common reality in this field. We can by far not save them all.

NEBL Commissioner Steps Down After 6 Years
The commissioner of the National Elite Basketball League (NEBL), Karim Juan, tendered his letter of resignation to the league after serving in that capacity for the past 6 years. The league will be advertising for the post of commissioner later this week as they start preparing for the 2021 season.

The current Westline schedule
Below is our weekly schedule. If any changes due to GOB announcements or increase in passenger flow, we will be revising & sharing with you all. Thanks again for allowing us to continue serving you.

George Price Highway Rehabilitation Project
Last week we highlighted Mr. Ramos on the road during the initial road work monitoring in April 2020. Here are a few more pictures of the development that is underway by the George Price Highway Rehabilitation Project during the month of May! The work steady continues, to ensure that infrastructural development does not come at the cost of our heritage !

The Artists of the Day, Jankunu Productionz
Jankunu Productionz is a theatre concierge business with over 35 years of combined experience in theatre, between its founders, Sandra McKay and Julieann Ellis Bradley. Our company brings together service providers to create and deliver productions of the highest quality. We currently provide an income stream to some 25 such persons, both individually and corporately. We are currently doing school shows of “Belize Rewind” our flagship production and mainstay that is also available for tourists. “Belize Rewind” is a Belizean Historical & Cultural immersion, depicting Belize from settlement to independence via live on-stage acting, singing, dancing and poetry. We have also showcased original and overseas productions, namely: “Kruffy Air”, “Frenemy”, “Saving Alligator High”, “Love & Laughter Comedy show”, & “Parisian Kruffy.”

Mr. Faustino Yam, curator of the soon to open U Kuchil Maya Uchben Baalob Museum in Cristo Rey Village
Today we are delighted to introduce Mr. Faustino Yam, a proud Yucatec Maya who is the curator of the soon to open U Kuchil Maya Uchben Baalob(A place for old Maya things) Museum in Cristo Rey Village. Mr. Yam is a retired educator and member/spiritual advisor for the NGO To'one Masehualo'on. Maestro Yam's collection began with his parents handing down cultural items to him. He decided to continue their tradition of holding onto artifacts, offering a space for younger generations to view with the goal of retaining their identity. Maestro Faustino has already had many visitors including educational institutions to his museum where he encourages all to learn more about Yucatec Maya culture.

Tune in on May 15 at 10:30 a.m. for the webinar "Effective Communication for Tour Guides."
Register here: https://bit.ly/2yDxHmA

Ministry of Natural Resources Issues Statement on Squatting
The Ministry of Natural Resources hereby reminds the public that squatting on national land or private land is illegal. It has been brought to the Ministry’s attention that unauthorized individuals are involved with private lands in the Agricultural Area of Cotton Tree Village, near the Benny’s Warehouse at mile 44, George Price Highway, Cayo District. The public is advised to be cautious not to engage in activities that lead to the illegal disposal of land and unauthorized occupation as persons will do so at their own risk.

Virtual Trivia Night to support SP Tour Operators Food Pantry
Join us this Friday for a live virtual trivia night hosted on our Facebook page at 7pm CT / 9pm ET. There is no cost to play but we are asking for donations to the San Pedro Tour Operators Association food pantry. The program is providing weekly groceries for more than 150 tour guides and their families. We recommend rum punch but not so much that you’re singing “I Shot the Sheriff” before the game is over! Winners will receive two (2) Caye Caulker day sails with SEAduced by Belize to be redeemed when Belize safely reopens to tourism.

US national charged for escaping from Quarantine
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams during a police briefing today reported that a US national who illegally entered Belize into the Corozal Free Zone is the individual who has been charged with failing to comply with a directive of the Quarantine Authority. Williams says the man was found inside the Free Zone and was placed under mandatory quarantine. He subsequently escaped and is now in police custody at a cell block in the Corozal Police Station. A COVID-19 test has been done on him and if the results return negative he will be taken to court. If he pleads not guilty, he will still have to remain in mandatory quarantine until the 21 day period is up.

Power outage 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12 to affect customers on Seagrape Drive in San Pedro
BEL to install underground power lines to facilitate the connection of customer in the area.

Restart of PLB Football July 2020
Re-Start of Football | Premiere League of Belize tentative July 2020.

Ya'axché Radio Show
Tune in on Sunshine Raydio Station, Tuesday, 12th May 2020 at 4-5 pm. We will be discussing fire management, how to prevent escape fires and our work at Ya'axché Conservation Trust. Be sure to join Julio Chub, Eugenio Ah and Evairsta Sho on the Ya’axché radio talk show. With the support of Europe Aid through the Forest Governance Project.

Channel 7

28 Days Later...
We have completed 28 days since Belize's last confirmed case of COVID-19, and, tonight after hundreds of tests later, it's safe to say that the country's first wave of COVID-19 infections is over. We take a look back now at how Belize flattened its curve starting at its peak, that dark and harrowing easter weekend that gave the entire nation pause. Cherisse Halsall reports: It's been 28 Days since Belize confirmed its last case of COVID-19 and back then, over the canceled Easter weekend, the country was coming off what, to date has been its most traumatic weekend.

Belize 1 Of 13 Countries With O COVID Cases For 28 Days
And, while the numbers are increasing in neighbouring countries, in terms of countries worldwide that have gone 27 days or more without detection of any positive cases, Belize joins just 12 other countries or territories on that list. According to the World Health Organisation website, most of those countries or territories on this side of the world, like Dominica at 30 days without a case, Montserrat at 27 days, St Barth's at 41 days, Angulla at 37 days, are tiny islands. Belize and Surinam are the only countries on the American mainland with zero cases for 28 days or more.

Angry Guat. Truckers Block The Western Border Crossing
But, one thing you can be sure of is that the Prime Minister will not recommend opening the borders anytime very soon. But, cross border trade and cargo transfer must continue. At the northern border, the trailers with goods from Mexico are unhitched at the transfer station - and Belizeans towheads then come and take them across. This is so that the Mexican drivers don't come across to Belize. But, out west, it's a little different. First off, many of the Guatemalan trucks are fully licensed, registered and duty paid in Belize. So, they just switch to their Belizean plates and legally come across. By doing this, they avoid costly axle fees and they also bring in their own cheap labour from Guatemala to load and unload cargo.

Police Say Border Blocking is A Diplomatic Matter
So, the commotion at the border between Melchor de Mencos and Benque Viejo Town caused Belizeans to take notice. Belize Police were also informed of the situation, and they were following it, in the event that they were called upon to keep the peace on the Belizean side of the border. Police Commissioner Chester Williams told the press in a briefing this morning that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would have to take lead in resolving it since it is outside of their jurisdiction:

Car Dealer Stuck At Border, They Won't Let Him In
And, for another perspective on the border, we have the story of Guillermo Forman. He's stuck at the Belize northern border tonight with two vehicles, and he's been there since Friday. They won't let him into Belize because the border is closed and the Mexicans don't want him back. So, he's stuck there at the bottom of the Chactemal bridge on the Belize side of the border. He shared his plight with a group named Oldany Packaging:

American Busted Coming through Free Zone
So, while that Belizean was stuck on the Chactemal bridge, an American man tried to enter Belize illegally through the Corozal Free Zone. He has been identified to us as 40-year-old Quenton Lavar Askew. Reports reaching 7News is that he was caught on Saturday trying to sneak into Belize through a hole in the Free Zone's fencing. He was quickly detained and placed in quarantine, and according to Police Commissioner Chester Williams, he then escaped from the quarantine area. He was quickly recaptured, and now, he's facing multiple charges for offenses against the State of Emergency Regulations. Here's what the Commissioner had to say about that incident:

The Ambulance Arrest?
Last night, a cell phone video went viral on Facebook, which depicted several heavily armed police officers pulling over an ambulance - their weapons trained on the vehicle, and their mobile blocking one lane of the George Price Highway. Inside, we heard the the panicked female recording the scene - saying that her mother was dying. Belizeans were ready to believe the worst. It appeared that once again, police were caught on camera harassing civilians.

Veteran EMT Says Ambulance Shoulda Stopped
Stinking attitude or not, it seems the ambulance driver was completely in the wrong and it's not just the police who think so. This afternoon Jose Canul, formerly a medic with Belize emergency response team, told us that the driver of the ambulance was required to slow down at checkpoints and that there is no reason for an ambulance to be driving at 100 miles an hour. He also gave us some insight into how a hijacked ambulance might be apprehended. "I will say it is rather strange for police to stop an ambulance in my career at B.E.R.T we had this understanding with the police that they wouldn't stop the ambulance for no reason at all and the commissioner was right when he said there's no law and that the police have a right to stop an ambulance but how would somebody know when there's an emergency."

SOE Violations Spiked On Mothers' Day Weekend
At the top of the news, we told you how Belize is among 13 countries in the world that is free from all active coronavirus infections for more than 27 days. That's a great reason to quietly celebrate health and wellbeing, but according to the cops, some Belizeans are behaving as though they are ready to "brukout", and they don't have to obey the State of Emergency rules, which are still in full effect. And that is reflected in the numbers; this weekend police arrested 156 people for state of emergency violations.

Mack 10 Machine Gun in Griga
Gang rivalries have been fueling crime in Dangriga and a police operational team went to the south last week to crack down on the gangs. On Friday afternoon, anti gang efforts in Dangriga led to a significant weapons stash linked to one of the town's gangs. The search of an abandoned lot in the 2nd New Site area, Dangriga Town turned up a black plastic bag concealed in a bushy area. Inside police found a high powered submachine gun with ample ammunition. The head of national crimes investigation told us more:

Weather Worn Gun On Caye
And, later, on Friday evening, that Anti-Gang Task Force visited a caye east of Dangriga, controlled by one of the town's gangs. Police found a weather worn machine gun, this time an AK-47 wrapped in a grey tarp along with an empty magazine. ACP Myvett told us more: "As a part of the same investigation police sometime around 4:45pm on Friday last visited an unnamed caye just east of Dangriga where they conducted searches and found a grey canvas hidden and in that was wrapped a green AK-47 rifle with an empty magazine. No one was found in that area, so that too was also processed and will be sent to the lab for comparison."

Guatemalans Had Weapons Stash In Santa Cruz
And, another big weapons bust was made further south in the Stann Creek village of Santa Cruz . On Friday night police went to the village where a Guatemalan man was said to be armed and dangerous. Police searched his home and found 3 loaded firearms - one fo them very high powered. Here's more from Myvette: "Also on Friday sometime around 8:30pm police in Santa Cruz Village, members of the special patrol unit along with the police officer stationed in Santa Cruz Village conducted a search on a home and at that time..."

Stabbed By Home Invaders
So, while the cops are investigating the origins of those weapons found in the south, Police from Ladyville are trying to get to the bottom of a home invasion in Ladyville, which has left a 61-year-old man hospitalized from stab wounds to the chest. At around 12:30 a.m. this morning, Michael Avilez was sleeping inside his home on Mirage Road when 2 burglars broke in. 1 assailant was armed with a knife and another had a gun.

Rt. Hon. Musa Stable, Recovering
Former Prime Minister Said Musa remains hospitalised tonight, recovering from what is described as a mild stroke which he suffered on Thursday night. He is scheduled to return home tomorrow. On an update on Saturday his politician son, Kareem Musa advised friends and supporters, quote, "we remain optimistic for his recovery that will require time, therapy and patience."

Mother Wants Answers For One Year Old's Foot Infection
One-year-old Skyla Bodden has had much more than a rough two weeks. On March 30th she broke her leg leaning over a railing, but the toddler's troubles really began at the KHMH. Her mother says that while they were there, hospital staff used bandages to bind the toddler's foot to a bed in an attempt to keep her leg straight. But the bandages had an adverse effect and by checkout time the flesh on Skyla's foot was raw and infected. Here's how Skyla's mother describes the ordeal that she and her child have been put through.

Fire Guts Hattieville Home
Belizeans continue to face the financial hardship that the COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted on the global economy. One citizen who has it worse during these difficult times is 29-year-old Dorian Garnett. He's a resident of the windmill area of Hattieville Village, and he has told police that someone lit his house on fire and completely destroyed it On Saturday night, his wooden home burnt down. Firefighters could only contain the blaze and put it out - he was unable to save anything.

BMDA Vs. DHS
On Friday we told you about Doctor Fuasto Pineda, a public doctor who was criminally charged for for practicing medicine privately during the State of Emergency. That was made illegal two weeks ago. That caught the attentions of the Belize Medical and Dental Association which put out a staining release on Friday night. It complained bitterly about Pineda's arrest and also about the transfer of a doctor from Dangriga to Hopkins.

COMPOL Not Backing Down on Charge For Doctor
We asked Police Commissioner Chester Williams what he thought of the release from the Belize Medical and Dental Association in defense of Dr. Pineda's actions. He was firm in his declaration that nobody, even doctors, are exempted from obeying the law: Chester Williams "Yes, and it is my honest belief that the release is one that goes against the grain of equality before the law..."

MOH Used Expired Swabs
Going back now to the Director of Health Services. He appeared this afternoon on Ask The Experts. We asked him about expired swabs that the Ministry of Health was using to test for COVID 19 back in late March and early April when supplies were low. Sources tell us the swabs had expired in November of 2019. He didn't deny it today: "We have received a report that in late March/April that MOE is using expired swabs from government 2019, can you comment?" "Yes, that has been done across the region, not only in Belize. We did consult with region public health agents and there is a little indicator that changes color once those swabs..."

Hospitals Going Back To Routine
And with the end of the first wave, hospitals are rolling back COVID routines to accommodate much-needed consultations and surgeries. But that might mean more wait time in your hospital lobby. And earlier today the DHS ask patients to bear with hospitals.

Many Factors Considered For Airport Opening
Hospitals are resuming routines and one industry that wishes it could say the same is the tourist industry but Manazanero says it may be a while before the airport re-opens and he wondered out loud whether tourism is even a viable option at this time. Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director Of Health Service "What factors would you consider Belize safe before you open the borders and the airports?" "Multiple factors, epidemic everywhere else, whether people want to travel is also a factor, because people might not be travelling. As long as the US has that travel advisory and it seems that will stick for the end of 2020..."

Manza: Cruise Ships Are A Petri Dish
And while those would be the possible airport protocols, for cruise ships, it's a lot more uncertain. There were major COVID outbreaks on a number of cruise liners in March and today Manzanero made it clear that welcoming them back is another consideration altogether:

Belize In a Bubble As Region Spikes
As we told you at the top of the news, 13 countries or territories worldwide have been COVID free for over 28 days. And as Belize joins the list we find ourselves in a unique position giving advice to international partners on the public health measures that helped us get our heads above water. But DHS Manzanero says it's no secret, just science.

Channel 5

COVID-19 First Wave Contained; What’s Next?
Belize has passed its first wave of COVID-19. But don’t expect that things will go back to normal immediately. Coming out of today’s meeting of the National Oversight Committee, it [...]

P.S.U. Says the PM Not Seeing the Picture Clearly
A joint meeting between Prime Minister Dean Barrow, the Public Service Union and the Belize National Teachers’ Union is scheduled to take place on Wednesday. The meeting will revolve around [...]

P.S.U.’s First VP says PM Needs to do Fact Checking
Also on Friday, Prime Minister Dean Barrow stated that ministers, chief executives officers and heads of departments will also be making a sacrifice which is much more than what public [...]

B.N.T.U. Members Have Mixed Feelings Over G.O.B.’s Cost Saving Measures
The Belize National Teachers’ Union is yet to form an official position on the government’s cost-saving measures proposal. The waiving of increments will also affect the thousands of teachers and [...]

P.S.U., B.N.T.U. to Meet with PM
In a letter sent to the President of the P.S.U. by Financial Secretary, Joseph Waight, the union is told that if it continues to reject the proposal, the prime minister [...]

Ministers Giving Up $1K Phone Allowance, 50% of Entertainment Allowance
According to the Prime Minister, the ministers will be giving up fifty percent of their entertainment allowance, which is a monthly sum they receive to host international guests as well [...]

Said Musa Remains Hospitalized
As we reported on Friday, former Prime Minister Said Musa was hospitalized after a mild stroke on Thursday night. The seventy-six-year-old For George Representative continues in the hospital tonight. His [...]

Elderly Man Stabbed Multiple Times in Ladyville Home Invasion
There was a home invasion in Ladyville in which an elderly man was brutally stabbed multiple times. Sixty-one-year-old Michael Avilez was inside him house when two persons stomped in the [...]

Guillermo Foreman Stuck at Northern Border
And there is trouble at the border points. Up north, the Mexicans don’t want him, and the Belizean authorities won’t let him enter his own country. Tonight Guillermo Foreman finds [...]

American National Busted for Illegal Entry at Corozal Free Zone
An American national was busted up north for entering Belize illegally over the weekend via the Corozal Free Zone. According to police, the man was intercepted while attempting to make [...]

Tensions at Western Border as Guatemalan Truckers Temporarily Block Bridge
Tensions ran high this morning across the western border, in Melchor de Mencos, where Guatemalan drivers blocked the bridge. While the borders remain close, cargo is allowed into the country. [...]

156 Persons Arrested, Charged for S.O.E. Violations
Even though it is now twenty-eight days without any new confirmed case of COVID-19, a state of emergency remains in place for the country. Thousands have already been charged for [...]

Guatemalan Labourer is Busted with Prohibited Gun/Ammo, Gas Discharge Weapon
A Guatemalan labourer is in big trouble with the law tonight for a slew of firearm offenses. Police say that on Sunday in Santa Cruz Village, Stann Creek District, Geovanni [...]

Cache of Guns and Ammo Found in Dangriga
In recent weeks, there has been a spike in gun violence in Dangriga where four persons were injured in separate shootings. The incidents, according to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, [...]

DHS Outlines What Restrictions Relaxation May Look Like
At the top of the newscast, Director of Health Services, Doctor Marvin Manzanero shared that Belize has contained its first wave of the COVID-19, but the number of cases are [...]

Will Borders and P.G.I.A. Be Reopened July?
Doctor Manzanero says that it’s not likely that they will recommend for an opening for the borders. As you know, Belize is the only country in Central America with no [...]

COVID-19 Testing Reduced to 3 Times a Week!
And on the topic of testing, the Central Medical Lab will not be doing daily COVID-19 testing, with the country’s first wave contained. Director of Health Services Marvin Manzanero outlines [...]

What’s Up with Criminally Charged Cayo Doc?
A doctor was criminally charged in the San Ignacio Magistrate’s Court on Friday. Doctor Fausto Alvin Pineda of Benque Viejo del Carmen was arrested and charged for ‘Engaging in Private [...]

DHS Responds to Alleged Case of Victimization at Southern Regional Hospital
In a separate, but health related matter, the Belize Dental and Medical Association also called on the Ministry of Health to look into a case of what they deem victimization [...]

MOH Outlines Donor List for COVID-19 Management
During today’s Ask the Experts webcast, Lizette Bell of the Policy, Planning and Project Management Unit provided a list of funding and donation committed to Belize for COVID-19. The total [...]

Kinkajou Dies 2 Weeks Later!
Almost two weeks ago we reported on a Kinkajou that was injured up north and was receiving treatment at the Belize Wildlife Referral Clinic. Well, the sad news tonight is [...]

EU to Invest $1 Billion to Assist Caribbean in Fight Against COVID-19
May ninth is recognized as European Union Day and this year the occasion highlighted the impact that the novel coronavirus is having on Europe and other countries that enjoy bilateral [...]

LOVE FM

Guatemalan Protest in Melchor de Mencos halt Cargo trucks from entering Belize
This morning, cargo trucks coming into Belize were stopped by Guatemalan protestors at the bridge in Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala. The protest halted products coming in from Guatemala to Belize.

Dozens arrested over the weekend
One hundred and fifty-six persons were arrested and charged over the weekend for going contrary to the State of Emergency regulations. The breakdown shows that 63 persons were charged for not wearing masks in public spaces; 51 for breaching the curfew; 30 for being unable to provide proof of sufficient reason for moving outside the curfew hours; 8 for not practicing social distancing; one for not adhering to the cross districting regulation; one for failing to comply with the directive of quarantine authority; one medical personnel for engaging in private practice when prohibited to do so and one for entering Belize illegally. During today’s press briefing Police Commissioner commented specifically on the illegal crossing at Corozal Freezone in the north.

Belize meets its 28-day milestone in the COVID-19 fight
This weekend marks 28 days since Belize has reported a case of COVID-19. It is a key milestone for Belize and will be a deciding factor for the National Oversight Committee on how they will move forward with the restrictions and the State of Emergency.

International flights are set to enter Belize in July; PM says otherwise
International airlines have begun selling flights into Belize for as early as June 28, 2020. While it is yet to be confirmed by the local authorities when the borders and the airports will reopen for tourism, carriers such as American Airlines and Delta Airlines have already begun offering flights into Belize.

Majority shareholder in NGC based in the US
The National Gas Company (NGC) was registered at the Belize Companies Registry on April 20, 2016. Currently the company has seven shareholders and has not really been heard about until last year when the idea to nationalize the importation and distribution of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) was brought at the House of Representatives when the Liquefied Petroleum Bill was passed.

COMPOL comments on the Ambulance fiasco
A video of an ambulance being pulled over at a checkpoint circulated over the weekend rendering anger at the Belize Police Department.

Weekend rains bring reprieve to residents in the north, west, and south
The weekend rains brought reprieve to residents in the north, west, and south after having bore weeks of forest fires and smoky air. This coincided with the conclusion of efforts by government officials to extinguish the fires.

Public Service Union and GOB at an impasse
Tonight, there is no progress to report on the impasse between the Government of Belize and the Public Service Union (PSU). When we left you on Friday, we told you of the ultimatum the government gave the PSU and the union’s rejection of an increment freeze for this fiscal year. We also told you of the Prime Minister’s response in saying that the union’s position is unacceptable. While we cannot report any solution to the impasse, we can tell you that the two bodies have agreed to a virtual meeting for Wednesday morning. Love News spoke to the Vice President of the Public Service Union, Dean Flowers, who explained that the PSU and Belize National Teacher’s Union are ready to sit and come to an amicable solution.

Breaking Belize News

Belize City men charged for stolen boat engines
Yesterday Belama police detained and charged two Belize City men, Calvin Palma and Ryan Theus, […]

National Association of Media Literacy and Education and Reuters launch educational resource to identify misinformation on COVID-19
By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: The National Association of Media Literacy and Education (NAMLE), in partnership with Thomson Reuters, […]

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen needs your support
The COVID-19 pandemic had a major economic impact on Caye Caulker despite the island not […]

“First wave of COVID-19 contained,” says Ministry of Health
Today the Ministry of Health (MOH) announced that Belize has successfully contained the first wave […]

Ministry of Natural Resources warns against squatting
The Ministry of Natural Resources issued a statement today reminding the public that squatting on […]

Can Digi and Smart rebound from COVID-19?
A report released this week discusses the long-term forecast for the survival of Belize’s telecoms […]

United Nations, PAHO, European Union and Canadian Fund donate to Belize for medical equipment to fight COVID-19
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero and Lizett Bell, Director of Policy, Planning and […]

Dr. Marvin Manzanero: Expired swabs have been used across the region
Today, Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero said that across the region, expired swabs […]

Ministry of Health thanks organizations; partners for assistance in fight against COVID-19
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero and Lizett Bell, director of Policy, Planning and […]

Dolly, Nana, Teddy among storm names for 2020
The Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The 2020 hurricane season […]

Commissioner of the National Elite Basketball League resigns after serving for 6 years
The National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) informed today that Karim Juan, who served as the […]

Taiwan develops 10 minute COVID-19 antibody test kit
Focus Taiwan reported on May 7, 2020, that Taiwan has developed a rapid antibody test […]

Over 150 people arrested on Mother’s Day weekend
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, informed that 156 people were arrested and charged for […]

Inter-American Development Bank says Caribbean tax revenue under threat
The Jamaica Observer published a report on the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) and the […]

Aggravated burglary in Ladyville
Police are investigating a case of aggravated burglary that occurred just before 1 o’clock this […]

Blogs

When This is Over I’m Going to Belize!
I don’t know when international travel will resume, when Belize will open her borders (July?) or when people feel financially secure enough to travel for fun…I don’t even know when airlines and countries are going to figure out HOW country-to-country travel will begin safely (quarantines? testing?) I’m just saying it feels like time to plan travel in my head (and on my computer) because, for me, that is absolutely my favorite thing to do. I know so many of you are thinking about Belize. I get emails every day asking when Belize is going to “reopen” and when airlines are going to start scheduling flights.

Top Reasons to Visit Belize in the Fall
Belize, and the wider global community, continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. If not cancelled, a vast majority of events and activities have been postponed to later in the year. As summer vacation remains a big question mark for much of the world, travellers are looking to the next season: fall. By visiting in the fall, guests can take advantage of Belize’s seasonal seafood, resort discounts, local festivities, and more. If you’re dreaming about your next Belize vacation, here’s a few reasons why Belize’s off-season in the fall could be right for you.

Island Daydreaming: A Trip to Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a prime example of what is quintessentially Belizean. As a small island, barely 5 miles long, the island motto ‘go slow’ comes easy. For decades, Caye Caulker has been a popular day-trip at 20 miles northeast of Belize City. The island’s vibe is rustic and laidback. Additionally, Caye Caulker is easily accessible by water taxi (one hour) or a 15- minute light aircraft plane. When in Caye Caulker, stroll along its sandy streets, enjoy street food, and sunbathe at The Split. As a result of disastrous hurricane, Hattie to hit Belize in 1961, the island of Caye Caulker was split into two sections: north and south.

International Sources

Latin America’s Avianca Airline Files for Bankruptcy
One of Latin America’s largest airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Sunday in New York, saying the COVID-19 pandemic has devastated its business. Avianca Holdings said in a statement that the move is aimed at continuing operations and preserving jobs when it is able to resume normal operations following a global health emergency that has grounded 90% of global air traffic. It said its own consolidated revenues had been slashed by 80%.

DEE SNIDER - "I'VE GOT A LOT OF INTERESTING, NON-ROCK AND ROLL PROJECTS GOING ON
Earlier today, May 11th, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister virtually invited AXS TV into his retreat in Belize for an episode of At Home And Social Online. During their chat, which can be seen in its entirety via the video below, Dee spoke about his current activities. An excerpt has been transcribed as follows: "Last year, I decided — I told my management I'm taking 2020 off," said Snider. "And they were, like, 'What? You're not gonna book any shows?' And I said, 'No shows for 2020. And I just wanna focus on my writing.' 'Cause I've been developing my writing for decades now. And, oddly, nobody has shows in 2020 (due to the Coronavirus pandemic). And being stuck here in our house in Belize, all I do is write all day. So it's been an awful situation that had a silver lining."

Videos

Monday's 'Ask the Experts', min. Today's guests include Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services and Ms. Lizett Bell, Director of Policy, Planning and Project Management Unit at the Ministry of Health.

A long line of 18-wheelers is forming in the Guatemalan side of the border, 2min. News media from Melchor de Mencos are reporting that Guatemalan drivers have staged a protest at the bridge leading to this side of the border. The drivers are upset that they are unable to enter the country due to the COVID-19 response.

Meet Mr. Martinez, a cat keeper, today on 'Bringing The Belize Zoo To You.', 2min. We'd like to introduce you to one of our front cat keepers: Edward Martinez! If you have questions for Edward, comment them below!

BELIZE - Thru the Motions, 1min.

BELIZE - Break the Repetition, 1min.

Peter Lawrence on ReefTV, 2hr. Peter Lawrence on drugs

#1 Band in Belize Gilharry 7 Band, 53min. Capturing a live performance by the great Gilharry 7 Band.

Found a Green Jay nest where I least expected it, 1min. On a farm, near the road, beside a busy transit area! I have been enjoying the hourly interactions of the parents coming in to feed and clean the nest. Enjoy! Just filter thru all the other noises, which include playing children. LOL

MARCOS CANUL(El corrido de Marcos Canul), 6min. This a beautiful song made by people of Yucatec Maya descent from Northern Belize for our Maya General Marcus Canul . Enjoy please share . Que Viva nuestro Marcus Canul!! Que viva los Mayas del Norte de Belize !!! Que Viva Belize !!!! Compositors Excellent effort. Yuum Bo'otik to the composers and musicians.Guitarist are Freddy Tammy, Leonardo Cantun, Severano Cantun, Senor Salvador on the Bajo guitar.Vocalist are Mr Roman Canul, Mr Adan Palomo and Mrs Adela P Vallejos de Moh . Image by Hugo Carrillo Cocom

Monday's "Ask the Experts", 50min. Today's guests included Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services and Ms. Lizett Bell, Director of Policy, Planning and Project Management Unit at the Ministry of Health.

Attorney for LPG Importers Make an Appearance on Love Fm's Morning Show, 48min.

Nigel Espat, Covid-19 survivor shares his story, 60min.

Views on the national response to the COVID-19 crisis, 52min. Sr. Counsel Andrew Marshalleck was our guest to share his views on the national response to the COVID-19 crisis. He explained that the risk of COVID-19 will remain with us for some time and so it is necessary to create regime that can be permanent and is not disruptive to the economy and allows for the citizenry to be able to prepare for the changes in regulations and operations.

The National Student Union of Belize - Reflections on the COVID-19 crisis, 32min. The National Student Union of Belize was our final guests to share their reflections on the COVID-19 crisis. They talked about how it has impacted their educational experience and how they feel leadership can better adjust.

Road to economic Recovery, 50min. The conversation about the road to economic recovery continued this morning with representatives from the Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry. They shared their take on what is required to strengthen the economy. They all agreed at the buying local, growing our disposable income and diversifying our industries will be key to any future economic strategy.

Nurses Week 2020, 37min. Imagine coming home from work and having to take a shower outside to prevent yourself from contaminating your family? This has become a part of the daily routine of some of our nurses during this COVID-19 crisis. For all the sacrifices they make 6th - 12th May is celebrated as Nurses Week. This year the theme is reflects their contribution. Nurses - A Voice to Lead - Nursing the World to Health. We had a chat with a group of nurses to discuss the role of a nurse in the health system and to share their experiences in providing health care to Belize's families.

Access the services of a doctor without leaving your home, 21min. The innovation continues and today we featured the new concept of Telemedicine. You are now able to access the services of a doctor without leaving your home. Dr. Kyle Habet shared the details of this new platform and how you can access his services for your health needs.

Clandestine airstrip destroyed, 3min. The Reporter has received footage of what is believed to be an active clandestine airstrip being destroyed by BDF personnel. The airstrip, located in Dolores, Toledo District, was approximately two kilometres long.

UNCOVERING COVID, 87min. BTIA’s Executive Director, John M. Burgos appeared on the UNCOVERING COVID show hosted by William Neal on Channel 5 along with Senator Mark Lizarraga and Attorney-at-Law Mrs. Magali Marin-Young to discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the path to recovery.

La Llarona, 6min. The Benque HoC's story of the week is about La Llarona. HORROR MONDAYS: oral legends, ghosts, spirits and other chilling stories. "aaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyy mis hijos", the terrifying weeping woman, a figure familiar to many Benqueños. A story about how she is doomed to roam the earth, especially through Benque streets... thank you Ms Rosita Kuylen for sharing with us your creepy encounter with La Llorona...

Placencia residents voice concerns over ongoing dredging, 3min. Residents on the Placencia Peninsula have grown concerned over the dredging occurring along their coastline. Our colleagues at Southern Belize media filed the following report.

Belize 2017-2018, 10min. New Years Eve in Belize... snorkeling, jungle, ruins... what more could you want?

Belize Virtual Music Festival 2020 | Mervin Budram - MD, 4.5min. Mervin Budram - MD virtual performance for the Belize Virtual Music Festival.

Mystery Of The Iguana Man | Revealing Secrets Of The Belize Lizard Eco Sanctuary | San Pedro 4K, 9min. Are you ready to meet some of the most exciting, beautiful and misunderstood creatures in the world? Journey with me into the heart of the Belize swamps, to journey back in time to the Jurassic-era. On today's episode, we visit the ECO IGUANA SANCTUARY in San Pedro, Belize. Join us as we feed these incredible reptiles, and meet the mysterious IGUANA MAN!

Belizean Yucatec Maya Food: Onsikilbii boox Bu'ul Part 1, .5min. Onsikilbi boox bu'ul being made and explained by Maya women Adelida Che in the Yucatec Maya language . This is part 1 of the video doing this delicacy which starts working in a molino . Adelida Che is a Yucatec Maya from the Village of Yo Chen (Corozal) . Nuestra cultura Maya del Norte de Belize .

Belizean Yucatec Maya Food: Onsikilbii boox Bu'ul Part 2, 2min. Onsikilbi boox bu'ul being made and explained by Maya women Adelida Che in the Yucatec Maya language . This is part 2 of the video doing this delicacy where Mrs Adelida shows us the ingredients . Adelida Che is a Yucatec Maya from the Village of Yo Chen (Corozal) . Nuestra cultura Maya del Norte de Belize .

A glimpse into everyday life and the Maya tradition of making tortillas , 4min. To'one Masehualo'on enjoying the amazing skill of making homemade delicious corn tortillas on the fogon with Mrs Tzul in beautiful Yucatec Maya Village of Patchakan (Corozal district) . There is no comparasion to enjoying a lunch like this one. Simple pleasures of life are the best. To top it off, the company and conversations ,completes the wholesome experience.

May 11, 2020