August 9, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation denies arrival of private flight with Texan investors to Belize
Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Honourable Manuel Heredia Jr. has denied ongoing reports of a private flight from Texas, USA arriving in Belize early in July with potential investors headed to Ambergris Caye. Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow initially singled out the alleged flight as a possible origin in the spike of COVID-19 cases on the island, but he later retracted his statement and apologized. However, on the island and across the country, many people remain skeptical. The story that the flight did arrive and that investors visited several areas on the island, including a fishing tournament, spread like wildfire and caused much alarm and finger-pointing.

BEL COVID-19 Update
BEL hereby informs the public that regrettably, one of our employees in the San Pedro Service area has tested positive for COVID-19. The Company is providing full support to our employee and his family. We continue to adhere to all safety precautions in the interest of customers, our employees and the public.

Ramon’s Village Resort on Ambergris Caye becomes a Certified Autism Center
Ramon’s Village Resort in San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye is now the first Certified Autism Center in the country. The popular beach resort was accredited by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This means that guests with autism and other sensory needs can expect to have a pleasant stay and even participate in activities like scuba diving during their stay at Ramon’s. General Manager Einer Gomez added that they are very excited for the certification. “Our staff is very child friendly,” said Gomez.

Ambergris Today

San Pedro Strong, COVID-19 Patients Make Public Their Positive Status
These are just a few of the faces of COVID-19 in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize. The faces of those who did not expect to become infected with a virus that is ravaging the entire world, paralyzed large cities and cast fear on the smallest of villages. These are the faces of COVID-19 warriors who are not just fighting a personal battle with the disease, but also a public stigma that has brought out the worse in some members of the community.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location

Home Care for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19

Dr. D's Clinic on Caye Caulker ging by strict measures
In light of recent CoViD 19 outbreak in our country Dr. D's Clinic would like to inform the public that we will be re-activating our strict measures once again. This include. 1) No walk ins allowed 2) Patients will be seen by appointments only. 3) Any patient with Flu Like or Covid 19 symtoms will not be seen at the facility but will be advised to visit the Caye Caulker Respiratory Clinic by calling first The CoViD hotline # at (600-9539) 4) All patients must wear a mask, sanitize hand upon entering and practice social Distancing.

COVID-19 Update from Office of Director of Health Services
Our data today reveals a further 7 new cases: 5 in Orange Walk and 2 in San Pedro. The 2 cases in San Pedro are linked to a construction site where the majority of workers seem to be from the Orange Walk District - contact tracing for this site is ongoing. We are seeing a possible link to one of the two other clusters previously identified on the island.

BEL COVID-19 Update
BEL hereby informs the public that regrettably, one of our employees in the San Pedro Service area has tested positive for COVID-19. The Company is providing full support to our employee and his family. We continue to adhere to all safety precautions in the interest of customers, our employees and the public. Since April 6, 2020, all BEL Customer Service Centers countrywide have been closed to the public, with the exception of cashier services at Mile 2½ on the Philip Goldson Highway in Belize City. The cashier service, at the Corporate Headquarters, have remained opened; however, the services have been provided from an outdoor facility since April 27, 2020.

President Nurses Association Orange Walk District cites safety concerns at NRH
It is with great concern and urgency that I write to you in respect to the current situation that is unfolding at Northern Regional Hospital (NRH). Several nursing staff and support staff have voiced their concerns regarding the current administration response, with respect to; exposure to COVID 19 infected individuals; staff displaying flu-like symptoms who are required to report to work and inadequate staffing and poor facility for triage and housing of COVID 19 clients. There was an inpatient at the general ward, at NRH, that was diagnosed with COVID 19, who spent over 48 hours in the unit. Several staff members had primary contact with this client, who reportedly had poor mask usage etiquette.

BMDA blames MOH, says PPE's not readily available
The BMDA is disheartened by the news of the COVID-19 infection of our colleagues. It has hit home. Through this medium the BMDA advises all healthcare workers to be precautious when dealing with patients; everyone must be treated as a suspected COVID- 19 patient. If adequate personal protective gears are not available for work, you have the right to refuse to see patients. You signed up to serve but not on a suicide mission. There are no emergencies in a pandemic- you must protect yourself first!

San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Suspends Service from San Pedro
Dear Valued Customers In light of the recent announcement made by Hon. Dean Barrow, San Pedro Belize Express is suspending all departures and arrivals from Ambergris Caye , San Pedro. We will issue an update on our Caye Caulker route later.

DOE COVID-19 Preventative Measures
Recognizing that some persons carrying the COVID-19 virus may be asymptomatic, the Department of the Environment (DOE) is taking the following preventative measures to limit exposure and reduce the risk of its staff and protect the community from fostering the accelerated spread of COVID-19.

BPMS COUNTRYWIDE NOTICE
Due to the swift resurgence of cases of COVID-19, the management of BPMS has decided, with regret, to once again cancel our double runs that we had reinstituted on Tuesdays and Fridays. Therefore, with immediate effect, we will revert to one run per day from Monday to Friday, leaving the following times from our respective branches: 10:00 a.m. from the Belize City main office, 9:30 a.m. from the Corozal branch, 11:00 a.m. from the Orange Walk branch, 11:30 a.m. from the Belmopan branch, 9:30 a.m. from the San Ignacio branch, and 9:30 a.m. from the Dangriga branch. All BPMS offices countrywide are closed at 4:00 p.m.

Creative Monday Discussion
On the upcoming August 10 edition of Creative Monday Discussion, I’ll be joined by Ms Andrea Guerra, Karim Juan, Cheryl Stirm and Jennifer Clark. We are focusing on strategies - technology and other 'hands on at home' tips for both parents, teachers and school leadership. I’m inviting parents, educators and leaders in the educational space to tune in Monday 7pm on www.facebook.com/mervinbudram/live

THE NOHOCH CHEEN, ATM BARTON CREEK AND XUNANTUNICH ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES ARE ALL CLOSED
6:00AM SUNDAY 9 AUGUST 2020, DUE TO FLOODED RIVER CONDITION

American English Live Teacher Development Series
We are pleased to invite you to the American English Live Teacher Development Series 9, which will run from September 23 to December 2, 2020. Please remember: The sessions will be broadcast using Facebook Live (www.facebook.com/AmericanEnglishforEducators). Individual members can join the discussion on their mobile devices to post their own comments and questions during the session, thus allowing for greater, more personalized interaction. If you are part of a viewing group, you will continue to be able to share your thoughts with your peers at the end of the broadcast. The sessions will be broadcast on Facebook Live at two different times: 8:00 am and 1:00 pm, EDT. (6:00 am and 11:00 am in Belize.) You can attend sessions at the time that is convenient for you and you can also alternate schedules to better accommodate your usual activities.

Ya'axche' Yéetel Yuum k'áax
The elders tell stories about the Lords of the forest who look like men. They put their clothes and hats and live in the forest. They take care of the “milperos” (men who work in the cornfields). They also help the children so they are not tricked by the X'tabai who normally comes out when the night falls. Then she goes and sits under the Ceiba tree and waits for men to pass. When someone starts to get nearby, she starts to call them. That is how she tricks them.

LOVE FM

MISSING TEEN
14-year-old Gergoria Pitter from Belize City has been reported missing by her family. She was last seen on Thursday, August 6 heading to work. Since then her parents have not heard anything from her and they are asking for the public's assistance in locating her. If seen kindly contact 630-3013.

Breaking Belize News

Five more cases of COVID-19 identified in Orange Walk and 2 more in San Pedro
Five (5) more cases of COVID-19 were detected in the Orange Walk district and 2 […]

Dr. Marvin Manzanero: more front line workers infected with COVID-19
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero informed minutes ago that with relation to front […]

Dr. Marvin Manzanero: 7 new cases of COVID-19 detected
The Ministry of Health has informed that 7 new cases of COVID-19 was detected today. […]

Shyne Barrow comments on Garinagu persecution in Honduras
As a growing number of Belizeans take note of the atrocities being committed against Garinagu […]

Nurses concerned of COVID-19 exposure, lack of quarantine quarters
Concerned nurses have written to the Nurse Association of Belize expressing grave concerns over the […]

Medical and Dental Association demands better working conditions for frontline workers battling COVID-19
Today the Belize Medical and Dental Association (BMDA) is urging all healthcare workers to be […]

Alliance of private enterprises supports police against contraband
A group of Belizean private sector enterprises has made a significant contribution to the Belize […]

Medical and Dental Association laments COVID-19 infection of healthcare workers, demands better working conditions
Today the Belize Medical and Dental Association (BMDA) is urging all healthcare workers to be […]

Cayo resident reported missing returns home
A man from Cayo who was previously reported missing by his family has returned home […]

Villagers from San Marcos Village up in arms about survey in reserve
Picture courtesy: PGTV Today, some villagers from San Marcos Village in Southern Belize arrived with […]

Blogs

The Best Beaches In Belize
Belize is a valuable jewel of a nation located in the eastern part of Central America. One of the most amazing feature about this country is the availability of low-lying and amazing islands. From the east part of the country lays the Caribbean Sea shorelines while the western part holds the dense jungle that you all looking for as a tourist. Remember, most of the islands in the country are already habitable, which means that you get a chance to interact with locals as you enjoy a lifetime moment in the country — beach fun is the real deal. That said, here are the best beaches in Belize that you cannot miss out while in Belize.

What are Expats like in Belize?
“Expat” is short for “expatriate,” a person who has chosen to live somewhere other than his country of origin. While you may understand this and know that Belize has a sizable number of expats, you may be curious about what these expats are like. “Are they mostly professionals? Residents? A mix of both?” For the answer to this string of questions, simply read on. Belize’s expat community includes a melting pot of nationalities and professions from across the planet. Some of these expats used to be prominent in the world of business, others run a small business and some are pensioners who left their blue or white collar jobs behind them (along with a fair amount of their cares). No matter what they did before coming to Belize, all of these expats appreciate Belize and everything it has to offer, including the “Qualified Retirement Program,” real estate prices and a variety of offshore services.

Fancy retiring overseas? This Central American country is your best bet
As they approach their golden years, many Americans dream of retiring to a tropical paradise. Are those dreams unrealistic? You can make them a reality in Belize. It exceeds all the criteria that make a country a good place to retire. HERE IS A LIST OF THINGS TO CONSIDER: Cost of living: Life is more affordable in Belize. You’ll find that not only can you afford modern amenities like high-speed internet, you’ll also be able to manage luxuries like maid service. Climate: Belize is warm and pleasant. Ability to fit in: Americans will find it easy to adjust. The official language is English, the currency is pegged to the dollar, and there are several expat communities.

Videos

August 8, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

From Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit, Superintendent Christopher Noble
Guys tonight the weather is not our friend I have asked that officers extend courtesies to persons that may need to visit the various docks to secure their boats. While minimal, we are trying to be our brothers keeper and allow all to secure their livelihood. While we extend the courtesies, we encourage all persons to wear their protective gear and be safe

San Pedro DJ Announces Testing Positive For COVID-19
Island DJ Abner Diaz, known as DjSmallz reached out to his community of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, on a Facebook post, announcing that he has tested positive for SARS COVID-19. “Well I am finally here to tell you all that YES I am a COVID-19 Positive ... I just got my results so that’s why I didn’t post anything before. So to you all out there just please wear your mask wash your hands and keep safe.”

Ambergris Caye under quarantine; priority given to symptomatic patients
Residents of San Pedro Town in Ambergris Caye woke up on Friday, August 7th to a 14-day quarantine following an alarming spike in cases of COVID-19. The increase in cases on the island is attributed to community transmission, with further cases to be confirmed. The most vulnerable are being prioritized as islanders continue to flock to the Mar de Tumbo flu clinic for testing. Commercial activities on the island are slowing down, as the lockdown came with strict restrictions, including curfew and the closure of several businesses and construction projects.

Opinion: We need more support and empathy during COVID; say no to ignorance and hate!
While there are many symptoms that are attributed to COVID-19 positive patients, including shortness of breath, extremely high fevers, body aches, loss of sense of smell and taste, there is one that isn’t mentioned. The mental distress – primarily caused out of fear of ostracization, prejudice and sheer ignorance of one’s fellow citizen – can be just as difficult to deal with. It is a completely unnecessary side-effect to COVID, yet it seems to have become the most prominent. San Pedro Town is under quarantine due to an alarming spike of cases, after months of being free of COVID. However, if we look back to the reactions spurred upon the first case on Ambergris Caye, the level of hate and vitriol unleashed upon the victim, and the demands for her identity was alarming. Belizeans were practically clamoring for blood. One would have thought that COVID was never going to make it into the country, despite being bordered by countries now collapsing under the pressure of their case numbers.

Ambergris Today

U.S. Embassy And UNICEF In Joint COVID-19 Prevention Project Belize
The United States Government, through the U.S. Embassy and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), announced the launch today of a U.S. $300,000 project to fund UNICEF’s work to reduce the risk and impact of COVID19 for vulnerable children and adolescents in Belize. During today’s ceremony at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence, the U.S. Embassy announced the launch of its project to fund COVID-19 prevention and mitigation measures through its partnership with UNICEF. Areas of intervention will focus on: risk communication and community engagement; improving infection prevention and control, including with water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services; providing critical hygiene supplies; and data collection and analysis.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location

Social Security closes San Pedro branch due to lockdown
Important Notice: Effective immediately, the San Pedro Branch Office will be temporarily closed to the public for the duration of the 14 day lock-down. Registration Service for new or replacement of Social Security Cards is also temporarily suspended. We remind our customers of the availability of our Online Services for the ELECTRONIC submission of claims to claims@socialsecurity.org.bz and of the online service for payment of contributions. San Pedro Branch Cell Number: 604-1867.

COROZAL: OPEN NOW - THE NUÑEZ DENTAL CLINIC
LOCATION: Phillip Goldosn Hwy, CALCUTTA VILLAGE, COROZAL CONTACT: 622-0193 QUALITY, AFFORDABLE DENTAL CARE: WORKING HOURS: Monday & Wednesday - 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday - CLOSED Sunday - 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Tropic Air Amends Passenger and Cargo Schedule
Due to the National State of Emergency brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, all passenger flights to and from San Pedro have been suspended for at least the next 14 days. Cargo flights to and from San Pedro continue, but the schedule has changed. Likewise, our schedule to and from Caye Caulker has been amended. Passenger and cargo flights to Dangriga, Placencia – Riversdale and Punta Gorda from Belize City remain unchanged. The operational days and times for the flights and for our stations, effective Monday, August 10th, is shared below.

DOE COVID-19 Preventative Measures
Recognizing that some persons carrying the COVID-19 virus may be asymptomatic, the Department of the Environment (DOE) is taking the following preventative measures to limit exposure and reduce the risk of its staff and protect the community from fostering the accelerated spread of COVID-19.

Flood Forecast for August 7, 2020

COVID-19 Update from Office of Director of Health Services
We are releasing until this hour as we are trying to reach the positive cases in the first instance. A record numbers of tests for one single day was processed today - a total of 214. The majority of the remaining cases are for now related to the two clusters in San Pedro. We are still working on the line listing but needed to share this preliminary data for now.

Proclamation Declaring State of Emergency
WHEREAS, section 18 (2) of the Belize Constitution provides that the Governor-General may, by proclamation which shall be published in the Gazette, declare that a state of public emergency exists for the purposes of Part II of the Constitution; AND WHEREAS, section 18 (3) of the Belize Constitution provides that, in order to have effect, the proclamation must contain a declaration of the Governor-General that he is satisfied that a public emergency has arisen as a result of the outbreak of infectious disease; AND WHEREAS, section 18 (4) of the Belize Constitution provides that a proclamation made under section 18 (2) may be made so as to apply only to such part of Belize as may be specified in the proclamation;

BELIZE CONSTITUTION (EMERGENCY POWERS) REGULATIONS, 2020
Regulations for Ambergris Caye, Santa Martha Village, Shipyard Village and Guinea Grass Village. REGULATIONS made by the Governor-General in exercise of the powers conferred upon him by section 18(9) of the Belize Constitution, Chapter 4 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, and all other powers thereunto him enabling.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve Closed Until Further Notice
Dear Valued Stakeholders and Members of the General Public: The Hol Chan Marine Reserve ["HCMR"], hereby notifies the General Public that the Marine Reserve will be closed to Visitation as of today, Friday, August 7th, 2020 until further notice. This is in line with the State of Emergency placed on Ambergris Caye by the Government of Belize. We assure you that our Team will continue monitoring and patrolling to safeguard the natural resources of the Marine Reserve and the integrity of our tourism product. We will continue to update the public as changes occur. We would like to thank our Stakeholders, the Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker Communities for their valued cooperation in the past.

Ministry of Health ReOpens Emergency Operations Center for COVID19
The Ministry of Health has officially reactivated its Emergency Operations Center to support its COVID19 health response. Kindly call us at 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273) hotline, which is free. We will guide you on receiving health support. Please call us first before visiting any health care facility.

Reconstructing the sidewalk of the San Pedro R.C. School
In these dark times, we need a little light and color! Here's an update on our Sidewalk Project.

Face Masks and Thermometers donated to San Pedro
Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in San Pedro, Mayor Daniel Guerrero presented Superintendent Christopher Noble with a donation of two infrared forehead thermometers and a supply of face masks to help aid the Police Department. The items presented to the Superintendent were originally donated to San Pedro by the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

Atlantic Bank’s 10th Annual Art Competition
Participate in Atlantic Bank’s 10th Annual Art Competition and Win great prizes! This year there are two categories visit http://atlabank.com/art_competition_1.php for more on how to enter!

Joseph Gray Jr. Scholarship Fund
This is a great opportunity.

ATTENTION PARENTS/GUARDIANS OF COROZAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
We hope that you are all well and safe. With the recent changes in our country due to the pandemic, our school has had to make changes to our reopening plans. Take note that orientation activities planned for next week have been postponed until further notice. Students that have not picked up their Digi device can do so on Monday as of 9:00 a.m. Please view class lists for the new school year. Students have been placed in a class that has been divided into two groups. For example: 1A-Group1 and 1A Group2

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER PARISH RELEASE
Brothers and sisters, let us continue in prayer as we enter again in set of established protocols set by government, this is to avoid the continuation of the virus spread. At our parish we made some changes to adapt. The following will help us cooperate. 1. Masses and Services will continue. a. Services in the villages can be done in two separate hours to accommodate b. Follow the new protocols given by government (Maximum 25 persons, use Mask at all times, distancing) ...

FBB 2021 Community Grant Call
Full Basket Belize is accepting grant applications for community based projects. They have supported scores of projects around Cayo and Belize over the years, as well as providing many high school scholarships. Now's the time to send them grant requests. The deadline is October 2nd. Head to their website for more information. You can see this year's projects on their website:

THE NOHOCH CHEEN, ATM AND BARTON CREEK ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES ARE ALL CLOSED DUE TO FLOODED RIVER CONDITION
PLEASE EXERCISE CAUTION

Helping a Belizean archaeologist conducting research
Good afternoon Belizeans! Once again we are reaching out to you to help a Belizean archaeologist conducting research. This research focuses on Belizean opinions and perceptions about archaeology and cultural heritage in Belize. Please take the time to complete the survey and share it to all your Belizean friends and family!

Atlantic Bank Closes in San Pedro
ATM services remain available.

San Pedro Tour Guide office closes for two weeks
The San Pedro Tour Guide office will be closed for the next two weeks but will continue to share our weekly food pantry !! Please wear a mask properly, sanitize or wash hands regularly and maintain your distance ( 1 Perifeet ) !!! STAY SAFE !!!

Channel 7

COVID Cases Continue To Climb
Tonight - COVID cases are surging in San Pedro where health authorities says there is very active community transmission. And there's also community spread in Santa Marta village - I went there today and we'll have that later on in the news. Countywide there are 80 active cases - most of them spread across three active clusters in San Pedro. And by the end of the night there will be many more, as 75 samples were taken today from persons showing symptoms on San Pedro. Health authorities say they expect the possible confirmation of another 30 cases could be confirmed tonight. Here's Dr. Russell Manzanero from the Ministry of Health giving an overview of the numbers countrywide. He spoke a short while ago on Ask The Experts:

Expect Another 30 Cases Tonight
And while the majority of cases are concentrated in San Pedro, the preliminary report from today doesn't look to change that much. Here's Dr. Marvin Manzanero with he latest figures from a short while ago on Ask the Experts: "We get some preliminary reports earlier. I'll just share that with you. For today there is approximately 180 samples being processed. Of those we have going to confirmation which means that we are going to confirm by a secondary test as well 30. We have 30 that will go on confirmation. From where they are we are not sure yet, I'm just being told that it's not only from San Pedro."

Positive Cases Include Two Doctors
So, the footprint of infection seems to be expanding, and last night's new record of 28 positive cases also pointed to cases in Belize City, Belmopan and San Ignacio. There was one new case in San Ignacio associated to illegal entry, one case in Belmopan from apparent travel to San Pedro, 3 more cases in the Northern Region, 2 in Santa Marta and one in Orange Walk, and 20 new cases in San Pedro, two of them coming out a a church gathering, and 10 of them related to cluster #1 - who's the expatriate female with a prominent name. Her partner is believed to be the index cases on the island. And while the numbers now lead a dizzying dance, one arresting fact is that frontline workers, including doctors and nurses are also now showing up with positive cases.

Island DJ Opens Up About Positive COVID Test
That is a sobering message for sure, and a San Pedro DJ has gotten it loud and clear. He is Abner Diaz, known on the island as DJ Smallz. He posted his COVID 19 positive status on facebook today - and we spoke to him about it via phone: Jules Vasquez, reporter: "First of all Smallz how do you feel?" Voice of: Abner Diaz "DJ Smallz" - tested positive for Covid19: "I am feeling good. The worst already happened the first few days, after that it got smoother and I feel better now." Jules Vasquez, reporter: "How did the symptoms feel when you had it? It felt like a regular flu, what did it feel like?"

Long Lines At San Pedro Flu Clinic
And the very many island residents who have had contact with infected persons like DJ Smalls have been lining up at the town's flu clinic. But the wait can last hours, even all day. Our colleague form the San Pedro Sun spoke to one young man who'd been waiting since the day before: Voice of: Person waiting at Clinic: "So far it was me and my entire family that has been trying to get tested. I came here by myself whole day yesterday and I was unable to get tested and today finally made some progress..."

San Pedro Clinic Is Overwhelmed
Our colleague from the san Pedro Sun Dion Vansen did that interview, and we spoke to him via Zoom about the situation at the clinic: Dion Vansen, Reporter, San Pedro Sun "The clinic over here is getting overwhelmed. According to people that have been there trying to get swabbed they have been turn back because they are trying to focus on people that are symptomatic, because according to them they don't have enough test kits, so they can't test everybody that shows up and say I think I have it. If you have it and you have no symptoms and you are turn back then you might continue spreading it and until you get sick then you will get swabbed and it might be too late."

MOH Will Need To Re-focus Efforts On Belize City
But, many islanders will now have to go without testing. With "very active community transmission" confirmed on the island, the Ministry of Health says it needs to re-focus to Belize City - where there is the possibility of the virus getting a foothold in the country's largest population center: Lorna Perez, Surveillance Officer: "We will be changing our strategy somewhat and this goes for the people in San Pedro, I know you are anxious, you want to be tested, but Doc, maybe you could clarify, because we will be looking at other potential areas. Belize City is a place of concern. Right now we have over 100 people waiting to be screened with the cases that came up there are so many more, but the priority is shifting. We need to contained and so we need to look at other areas of potential exposures."

San Pedro, Life In Lockdown
So, basically, the directive to townspeople is: don't come in, just call, and we'll call you back. A necessary strategy, but not exactly confidence building...and we asked our colleague about the mood on the island which is now in its first day of lockdown:

COVID Across Communities
In our first segment we told you all about what it's like on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, but that is only one of four communities under lockdown. The others are the Orange Walk villages of Shipyard, Guinea Grass, and Santa Marta. Tonight they've returned to the strict measures that we all lived under back in March, that means no non-essential travel, not even to their nearest community. And those restricted movements are being manned by the police who've placed checkpoints at the entrances to all 3 villages. I got to see the checkpoint to Santa Marta firsthand.

Area Rep Says Productive Communities Locked Down
Today, CTV-3 spoke to area representative for Orange Walk South, Jose Mai. He's the representative for many of those villages and he explained that these are communities with people who need to work outside their villages, and there are also agricultural considerations:

Laying Down the Law On Lockdown
And while there are very localised concerns for those rural communities, and San Pedro Town - the Government says a 14 day lockdown of all those areas is a very necessary step to contain further spread of COVID 19. And, to outline the news rules as only he can, last night, several hours before the new COVID-19 went into effect, Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte made a prime time appearance on the Ask the Experts Webcast. He laid down the rules and the laws that will pertain in these four communities for the next 14 days:

Keeping Firebun Fed
And, the government is also planning on how to come to aid the residents of the Fireburn Community. Geographically, it is tied directly to Shipyard, since visitors have to travel through Shipyard to arrive there. So, since the lockdown is now in effect, all residents of Fireburn are now effectively cut off from the rest of the country. The Attorney General said that the authorities have already identified a protocol to get important food and water resources to them: "There's a village that's next to Shipyard, called Firebun - I think it is. Now, that village, if you shutdown Shipyard, essentially, you're blocking that village because apparently, you cannot go to that village without first entering Shipyard..."

Contraband and Border Jumping Penalties Equalized
And, while there is some special consideration for that small community, there is going to be no consideration at all for border jumpers, contraband smugglers, or those who purchase and consume contraband. In a draconian crackdown, if you are caught with a single contraband product, you will face the same penalty as a person caught on the Rio Hondo smuggling a wholesale contraband cargo. And that penalty isn't a fine anymore, it's 6months in jail, and no bail at the magistrate's court! That's like a firearm offence, and the AG explained why government has no more patience for border jumpers:

The Rules For The Rest Of the Country
So, that is the new super-strict regulation for contraband and border jumping, but if you don't get into any of that mess, and if you don't live in San Pedro, Shipyard, Guinea Grass, and Santa Marta, life for the next 14 days will not change so drastically. But, there will be a national curfew and state of emergency countrywide, and so you aren't free to move and operate as you please. Here's what the Attorney General had to say about how the SOE and the curfew will work, and what you need to do to stay out of trouble:

Mentally Ill Man Accused of Scalding Cop
Last night we showed you the cop who had been scalded. He was trying to get a pedestrian to put on his mask, and the man threw hot water on the police man. Seems like an open and shut case of textbook lawless Belize City behaviour, but there is another side to this story. The man - who is now accused of aggravated assault - is Nigel Ferguson. His family says he is mentally ill and has been threatening violence to his family for weeks now.

Coast Guard Goes Blue Lightning
The Belize National Coast Guard has launched a major operation in Belize's northern waters to keep corona virus out of Belize. They've also launched a slick promotional video to showcase their work. Acting Commander Greg Soberanis told us about it today:

Keeping The Waters Clear
Yesterday at the BDF headquarters, Soberanis discussed the vessels that the Coast Guard has had to escort out of Belize: Soberanis told us that the vessels that have tried to enter Belize's waters have all come from neighboring Central American countries.

Coast Guard and PPE's
And when Coast Guard officers make all these arrests and interceptions, how do they protect themselves? In that promotional video, everyone had on their fancy blue "camo's" - but what do they wear when they encounter a Mexican vessel?

Emergency On the Waters? Call 999
And, speaking to us via Zoom today, Soberanis also told us about a new emergency hotline that the Coast Guard has launched. Instead of calling 911, if you have an emergency on the sea, or if you witness something shady, call 999. He explains:

Keeping Businesses Rolling During SOE
In our last segment we told you all about the personal restrictions on movement during the state of emergency which went into effect at midnight. Well, the National State of Emergency also comes with some regulation of commercial activity, but unlike the first national SOE, the Government isn't forcing the closure of all private sector enterprises this time around. The only places where an almost complete shutdown is being enforced are those 4 communities of San Pedro, Santa Marta, Guinea Grass, and Shipyard. But, there will still be some closures that will be required under the SOE, and the Attorney General gave the public the breakdown last night:

Face Mask Rules Still Apply
And once again, the government is doubling down on the rules about wearing face masks and practicing proper social distancing. Earlier this week, before this massive spike in the number of coronavirus cases, were confirmed, Police Commissioner Chester Williams made it clear that police were returning to strict enforcement. Last night, the Attorney General reiterated that point, and he said that there will be zero tolerance for law-breakers: "For the rest of the country, you're not required to wear a face mask if you're at a private residence, if you're exercising if you're engaging in any sporting activity - so sporting activities are allowed outside of the lockdown areas - if you're swimming, if you're driving alone or driving with immediate family members, riding a motorcycle or a bike, the priest, pastor, member of the choir, or other person conducting a service or sermon of a church or other place of worship, or at a restaurant where dining in is allowed because if you're eating, you can't wear the mask."

US Issues Travel Advisory for Belize
It may be a case of the pot calling the kettle black, but the United States has issued a level 4 travel advisory for Belize. In other words, "do not travel". It's a response to the spike in coronavirus cases this week, and the advisory says "Do not travel to Belize due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crimeTravelers to Belize may experience border closures, airport closures, travel prohibitions, stay at home orders, business closures, and other emergency conditions within Belize due to COVID-19."

Channel 5

August 6th Confirmed Cases Stand at 28; Total of 80 Active Cases Across the Country!
In coronavirus crisis—San Pedro and Santa Martha have community spread and the number of cases continues to grow. The confirmed COVID-19 cases have jumped to over one hundred since our [...]

M.O.H. Adjusts Testing Strategies; Belize City is of Concern!
And as the number of cases increase – the Ministry of Health says that contact tracing and testing strategies are evolving. Tonight, we can tell you that the ministry is [...]

Preliminary Report: 30 New COVID-19 Cases
There are thirty preliminary confirmed cases of COVID-19 tonight. These initial numbers come from one hundred and eighty samples processed today.  These results are going for secondary confirmation and that [...]

If You Have Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19, Self-Isolate and Call 0800-MOH-CARE
And so if you are exhibiting symptoms or believe you were exposed to COVID-19, the Ministry of Health is advising you to call before you visit a health clinic. The [...]

Snaking Lines at San Pedro Medical Clinic
Residents of San Pedro are attempting to keep calm, but there is nervousness on the island which is the epicenter of the coronavirus in the country. Still hundreds more have [...]

Three San Pedro Residents Come Out as COVID-19 Positive
Three persons from San Pedro came forward and released on social media their COVID-19 positive status. They did so to inform persons who came in contact with them to be [...]

Attorney General Explains Measures in Lockdown Areas
The lockdown of the villages of Santa Martha, Shipyard, and Guinea Grass along with Ambergris Caye came into effect today.  That is after the Ministry of Health confirmed positive COVID-19 [...]

S.O.E. Regulations for the Country as Explained by the Attorney General
While those three areas remain under strict quarantine, a State of Emergency has been announced for the rest of the country. As announced by Prime Minister Dean Barrow on Thursday, [...]

AG Serious About Locking Up Violators
According to Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte the fullest extent of the law will be brought down on any and everybody who flaunts the law. He says that law enforcement officers [...]

Senior Cops Now Suspended for Chaos at Port of Belize
Three senior police officers were placed on administrative leave following the chaos at the Port of Belize compound on July twenty-fourth. Eastern Division Commander and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Alden [...]

Several Persons Detained for Questioning in Murder of Shakeem Humes Sr.
On the night of August fifth, Shakeem Humes Senior was executed outside of his house in the Westlake area of the Eight Miles Community on the George Price Highway. The [...]

Confiscated Narco Planes for Sale
In June, the C.E.O. in National Security told News Five that government had sold four aircrafts for a million dollars.  The money was most welcome given the financial crunch and [...]

The Attributing Factors to Decreasing Crime Stats
On Thursday, the Police Department, in its bi-annual COMSTAT meeting held in Belmopan reviewed the crime statistics for the first half of 2020. As we reported, major crimes decreased by [...]

Can Hotels Survive Another Lockdown?
COVID-19 cases continue on the rise which means that if more community transmission is confirmed, the possibility of a countrywide lockdown is likely. While it is a decision that the [...]

Where Are the Enhanced Packages for Frontline Workers?
Director of Health Services, Doctor Marvin Manzanero announced today that several frontline workers have been infected with COVID-19. Three police officers, two nurses and three doctors are confirmed to have [...]

Facility to Contain Border Jumpers Approved by Cabinet
As part of COVID-19 measures to contain the virus; C.E.O. George Lovell also spoke about a centralized quarantine facility. He says that this will assist in containing border jumpers. Lovell [...]

911 Enforcer to Keep Track of Tourists
While government is looking at have one facility for border jumpers for better control, it will also be relying on a devise to track tourists whenever they arrive. The nine-one-one [...]

Coast Guard Launches Operation Blue Lightening
The Belize Coast Guard today launched Operation Blue Lightning. The operation is geared at keeping Belize’s maritime border closed during this crucial battle against COVID-19.  While the B.D.F. and police [...]

U.B.F.S.U. Says Still No Negotiations at U.B.
The University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union is reporting tonight that their attempt to negotiations with the Board of Trustees and President of the UB has stalled.  The union [...]

Executing Unit for CABEI Loan Formed, Finally
Five years ago, in August 2015, the Government of Belize and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) signed a loan agreement for the Belize Integral Security Programme.  The overall [...]

US Embassy Gives Half-a-Mil for COVID-19 Prevention and Awareness
The U.S. Embassy handed over half-a-million Belize dollars for the implementation of a COVID-19 awareness and prevention plan.  UNICEF Belize is the local implementing partner and the work will target [...]

Amandala

San Pedro under complete lockdown for 14 days
At a virtual press conference held this evening, Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced that because of an alarming surge in COVID-19 infections, the island of San Pedro will be under a complete lockdown for the next 14 days. Things have been bleak on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, since last Sunday, August 2, when a mysterious case of COVID-19 was discovered. As reported, this case originally had no known source of infection, as the patient claimed that she had not traveled internationally; however, her entire family had suffered flu-like symptoms prior to the release of test results which confirmed that she was infected with the coronavirus.

Schools will not reopen on August 10
Belizeans across the country faced mounting concerns as we approached the commencement date of the new school year. Since early July, both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health had been receiving expressions of concern from distraught parents and educators who believed that the decision to resume classes could be as catastrophic as the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA), which was scheduled to take place on August 10. Since the reopening date was announced in June, the Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, Hon. Patrick Faber, along with Chief Education Officer Dr. Carol Babb, had been stressing the importance of children being back in school both for their physical and mental wellbeing.

38 new COVID-19 cases in five days
On Tuesday, August 4, Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero, along with epidemiologist Dr. Russell Manzanero, held a press conference to discuss the new COVID-19 cases that had been discovered over the weekend. Belize recorded a record-high eight new cases on Saturday and an additional case was discovered in San Pedro on the following day, which resulted in a total of nine more active cases of the virus in the country in a matter of twenty-four hours.

Shakeem Humes, 23, executed in Mile 8 Community
At about 9:00 last night, Shakeem Humes, 23, a resident of the Mile 8 community, was repairing his car in front of his house when a vehicle drove up and stopped, and someone from inside the vehicle called him, and when he went to see what the person wanted, a barrage of gunshots was fired at him. Residents of the area told police that at least 25 shots were fired, and the vehicle then sped away.

Immigration officers busted with weed
Three Immigration officers attached to the Belmopan Immigration office have been charged jointly with drug trafficking after 7 pounds of marijuana was found in the Immigration Department vehicle in which they were traveling from Orange Walk to Belize City yesterday. The officers have been detained pending arraignment in the Orange Walk Magistrate’s Court.

House Meeting on August 3
The House of Representatives met once again on Monday, August 3, 2020 to debate a number of bills and motions — specifically, the bill for the extension of the State of Emergency (SOE) on the Southside of Belize City, as well as an act relating to immigration into Belize, an act regarding hotels and tourism, an act relating to quarantine measures and the act regarding electronic transactions for the development of legal and business infrastructure. The day’s debates began on the topic of extending the State of Emergency on the Southside for an additional sixty days. This debate stretched across most of the House meeting, and became very contentious when it was suggested that the SOE is a result of the failure of the UDP government over the past twelve years to provide access to jobs and educational opportunities.

2 more months of SOE for Southside Belize City
On Wednesday, August 5, the Senate approved a motion to extend the State of Emergency on the Southside for an additional two months. This means that persons who were detained following the July 7 declaration will remain imprisoned for an additional eight weeks. Senators debated the motion at length, and while some agreed to the implementation of the extension, considering the current pandemic, others called out the Government on their failed policy to effectively combat the scourge of crime and violence in Belize City.

Shedrack White, 44, remanded for Pound Yard murder
An investigation into the fatal stabbing of William Emmanuel Rubio, 47, a laborer of Belize City who was stabbed in his chest at about 7:30 Wednesday night in front of the Pound Yard Bridge Taxi Stand, led to Shedrack White, 44. White, who is unemployed, was charged for murder and taken to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on Friday, and was remanded until October 1. Reliable reports indicate that Rubio became involved in an altercation with White, and White allegedly stabbed him in the chest, and then fled. Rubio was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.

Samuel August gets seven years for stealing, crashing SUV
Samuel August, Sr., 44, a backhoe operator, was taken to court today on charges of theft and damage to property. He was arraigned by Belize City Magistrate Emerson Banner, and he pleaded guilty to the charges. August is presently on remand for much more heinous crimes — specifically, the murder of his son and his son’s grandmother. Police said that at about 3:00 o’clock on the morning of October 31, August drove a backhoe into the house of Louise Young, his mother-in-law and the caretaker of his children.

Grenade launcher found in Dominguez Layout, Corozal
A grenade launcher, a device used by soldiers to fire 40 mm grenades, was found discarded in a bushy lot in Dominguez Layout, near the home of a man who police said is known to them. The launcher is a prohibited weapon, and an investigation has begun to find out if it has been issued by the military and how it may have ended up near the man’s home.

Editorial: Belizean ownership of businesses = more foreign reserves
The state of our foreign exchange reserves is always a big concern for Belize because, primarily, it supports our dollar which, since 1976, has been worth 50 US cents. Most of us know that the value of our dollar has been eroding, because the cost of goods from abroad keeps going up. If our foreign exchange reserves fall too low, our dollar would be directly devalued, and that would mean that our imports would cost even more. One yardstick we look to, to feel secure in our economic position, is the presence of sufficient foreign exchange reserves to cover our regular imports for three months. According to the website globaleconomy.com, in 2015 our foreign reserves was at its highest ever, at about US$540 million, but in June 2019 our foreign reserves had fallen to US$275 million, and in April 2020, just when we really began feeling the impact of the pandemic, it was at about US$270 million.

Former foreign ministers call on GOB to respond to kidnapping of Garinagu leaders
Last week five former foreign ministers of Belize — Eamon Courtenay, Assad Shoman, Lisa Shoman, Godfrey Smith, and Said Musa, who is also a former prime minister of Belize — issued a call to the Prime Minister and Government of Belize to have the Ministry of Foreign Affairs send a note expressing our concern to the Government of Honduras about the systematic abuse of Garinagu communities in that country, and in particular to ask for information regarding Garifuna leader Snider Centeno and four other Garinagu men who were abducted on July 18, 2020.

Police to give award for most COVID-19-related arrests
Starting this month, the Police Department will be issuing an award to the police officer who arrests the most violators of the COVID-19 safety regulations for the month. The announcement was made by Commissioner Chester Williams today during the police press brief held in the Commissioner’s office in Belmopan. Commissioner Williams said that there have been blatant violations of, and disregard for, the COVID-19 protocols, and police are now determined to make sure that these laws are obeyed. The department is therefore offering incentives to police officers to arrest violators of those regulations.

In the House, “Sedi” blasts his own party, the UDP
During a sitting of the House of Representatives today, Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington delivered a searing criticism of the ruling United Democratic Party, to which he belongs, calling its three terms in government a failure. For the past twelve years Elrington has sat in Cabinet as one of the most powerful and senior members of the United Democratic Party. During his address, however, which surprised everyone in the House, he pointed out that Government is in part responsible for the decay in the family structure, which has caused the tremendous increase of crime and violence in Belize.

The Corona Reef complex to be designated a protected area
The Corona Reef complex, located south of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, includes some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Mesoamerican Reef System. Cabinet has thus approved an initiative put forward by the Belize Coast Guard to designate the location as a protected area. On Thursday, July 30, Hon. Omar Figueroa, Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development, signed a statutory instrument to protect the status of this important marine system.

“Boots” For Pickstock?
During a recent press conference, Prime Minister Dean Barrow said that outgoing Port Loyola area representative, Anthony “Boots” Martinez, has expressed interest in contesting the Pickstock division and has recruited senior UDP and area representative for Mesopotamia, Michael Finnegan, as his campaign manager. Martinez had said that he would not be contesting his constituency, Port Loyola, in future general elections. Longstanding UDP area representative in Pickstock, Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington, recently announced his resignation as area rep of the constituency, after an unsuccessful effort to be selected as the new leader of the party, and in the House of Representatives meeting yesterday, there were indications that he has “gone rogue,” as is evidenced by his blistering criticism of his government.

1st Annual Bernice Wade Memorial Cycling Race a resounding success
The First Annual Bernice Wade Memorial Cycling Race was held in scenic Bermudian Landing Village on Sunday, 2nd August, 2020. This event, which was organized by Dwayne Wade and supported by the Wade family and friends, was a series of road races on the Lemonal Road circuit. There were races for all categories of riders, which included Elite, A-Plus, A, B, C, Junior, Female and Youths/Kids.

From the Publisher
When I was a boy growing up in Belize, British Honduras, as I look back now, I actually thought I was something special, because of a few academic successes. Powerful forces in the society had plans for me, again looking back, and that was the reason I was riding high, so to speak. There wasn’t anything that special about I. I definitely began to realize the truth of my humble reality around 1969, 1970, when one of my younger brothers, my parents’ fourth son/child, began to become ill. He was under Father Ronald Zinkle’s thumb at St. John’s College Sixth Form when I, having returned from an American university the previous year, began to attack Zinkle on the UBAD rostrum. Life was turbulent for me at the time, and I did not realize how vulnerable my little brother was in school. Whatever the truth, I will always feel a certain amount of blame for Stephen’s deterioration.

Respect to Hon. Sedi for calling for more help for inner city youth
At two or more recent sittings of the House of Representatives, Hon. Sedi Elrington has made statements that do not fall along the UDP party line, and at the most recent sitting his comments were the most scathing. Speaking on the extension of a State of Emergency on the Southside of Belize City, Mr. Elrington said that the government he has served over the last 12 years has failed, indeed that all political leaders had failed the citizens in that part of our country. Many political leaders in Belize do not understand Southside Belize City, so they don’t grasp why every effort must be made to make life better for the people who live in that area.

The Reporter

Hotline for cracking down on illegal maritime activities
The Belize Coast Guard has launched a hotline number aimed at cracking down on illegal maritime activities. The public is being asked to make use of the new number to report any maritime emergency, request maritime enforcement, and provide maritime information including reporting border jumpers.

Breaking Belize News

A new record of 32 cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Belize today
In a statement released a short while ago, the Ministry of Health reported that a […]

St. Peter Claver Parish in Punta Gorda adjusts services due to state of emergency
St. Peter Claver Parish in Punta Gorda, announced several changes to its regular church services […]

Three Galen Eagles awarded Taiwan Scholarships
Today, Galen University congratulated 3 Galen Eagles who were awarded scholarships by Taiwan Ministry of […]

Galen Eagles awarded Chevening Scholarships
Today, the British High Commission announced the recipients of the prestigious Chevening scholarships. Two Galen […]

COVID cases up by more than 100 percent in just one week
When the Ministry of Health updated the nation on the COVID-19 situation on Friday, July […]

How United States and UNICEF are assisting Belize’s COVID-19 response
A joint project between the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Belize and the Government […]

Operation Blue Lightning: Coast Guard moves against intruders into Belizean territory
At this critical time, the work of the Belize Coast Guard in stopping illegal activities […]

Health Officials say some 30 new COVID-19 cases may emerge today
Health Officials report that some 30 new COVID-19 cases may emerge after today’s testing is […]

Dr. Manzanero: “Everyone you see is a potential COVID-19 case…avoid unnecessary travel”
The mantra of Director of Health Services (DHS) Dr. Marvin Manzanero remains clear: “Everyone you see […]

Ministry sticks to protocol: Quarantine at home, take precautions if asymptomatic
The first preliminary report from the Ministry of Health says 180 samples are being processed today. […]

Eight frontline workers test positive for COVID-19
In today’s Ask the Experts, Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero was the bearer […]

COVID-19 battle: Contacts don’t matter anymore; focus will be on those most vulnerable, including the elderly
Belize’s battle with COVID-19 has taken on a new twist as Health authorities are becoming […]

Belize City on high alert for COVID-19; 100 potential cases to be screened
Nurse Lorna Perez, Surveillance Officer, makes note that passive surveillance involves those reporting directly to […]

ASK THE EXPERTS: Several new cases of COVID-19 confirmed including health workers and police
Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero says Belizeans cannot let down their guard as […]

Belizean-American businessman to donate laser thermometers to primary and high schools in San Ignacio & Santa Elena
Belizean- American businessman, Ramon Palma has pledged to provide red laser thermometers to all primary […]

Maskall village halts travel with neighbor Santa Martha
The Maskall Village Council has announced that effective Thursday – before neighbors Santa Martha in […]

Popular San Pedro DJ tests positive for COVID-19
Today, Abner Diaz aka DJ Smallz informed via his social media page that he has […]

La Luz del Mundo Church to host Holy Convocation
La Luz del Mundo Church will host its great celebration: the Holy Convocation, to commemorate […]

Orange Walk Mayor and staff test negative for COVID-19
Mayor of Orange Walk, Kevin Bernard informed that his test returned negative for COVID-19. Bernard […]

Social Security closes San Pedro branch due to lockdown
The Social Security Board informed today that effective immediately, the San Pedro Branch Office will […]

Over 19 million COVID-19 cases worldwide
As Belize battles its own surge in COVID-19 cases, the world is seeing the number […]

United States issues level 4 alert, warns against travel to Belize
On August 6, 2020, the United States Department of State published a level 4 alert, […]

Belize monitors 80 active cases of COVID-19
Health authorities are monitoring 80 active cases of COVID-19. On Thursday, the Ministry of Health […]

Blogs

Tropic Air temporarily suspends flights to / from San Pedro
Due to the National State of Emergency brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, effective tomorrow August 7, all passenger flights to/from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye are suspended. Cargo service will continue to the island, and we will release our amended cargo schedule tomorrow. We anticipate this suspension to be for up to 14 days, and we will update as more information becomes available.

Power outage 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. August 9 to affect a portion of the Cayo District
Unitedville to Arenal including Georgeville. Duck Run 1. 2 & 3. Billy White. Central Farm, Esperanza. Santa Elena, Santa Cruz. Benque Viejo. San Ignacio, Shay Mlle. San Miguel, Costa Rey. San Antonio. Bullet Tree Falls. Branch Mouth. Santa Familia, Calla Creek. Corozalito. Succotz. and surrounding areas. BEL to conduct maintenance and testing of equipment at San Ignacio Substation. replace utility poles. remove vegetation graving into the power lines and relocation of distribution device in the area.

Strength in Community: Coping with COVID-19 in Belize
As local COVID-19 cases rise in three districts – now under quarantine – many Belizean residents may experience feelings of fear, burnout, frustration, grief, and hopelessness at the chance to get back to normal. Health officials say these feelings are natural, globally. Perhaps, there is comfort in knowing we are not alone. Ministry officials and other agencies, as well as neighbors and community members, are available to support you. As Belize braces for the ripples of COVID-19, there is strength in community where being ‘our brother’s keeper’ is more important than ever.

Belize Postpones its Tourism Reopening
Belize has postponed the reopening of its Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. The airport was previously scheduled to reopen on August 15 for chartered flights, private aviation and international leisure travel with approved hotels only. Prime Minister Rt. Dean Barrow, who made the announced at a press conference on Aug. 5, said that although the airport will not reopen, the weekly repatriation flights for Belizean nationals abroad will continue; this includes the 14-day mandatory quarantine and health screening upon arrival.

Belize Unveils 4-Step Processing for Tourists Once Airport Reopens
Belize has delayed reopening to international travel on August 15, which comes due to a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in three districts. Although travel to Belize continues to be suspended, the Government of Belize continues to prepare for reopening. Specifically, the Belize Tourism Board has recently unveiled a four-step travel system to process all tourists arriving in Belize.

International Sources

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE ISSUES LEVEL 4 "DO NOT TRAVEL" ADVISORY TO BELIZE
The Travel advisory notes: Do not travel to Belize due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Belize due to COVID-19. Travelers to Belize may experience border closures, airport closures, travel prohibitions, stay at home orders, business closures, and other emergency conditions within Belize due to COVID-19. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Belize.

US Issues Travel Warning for Several Caribbean Countries
The United States, which has the highest number of persons suffering or killed by the coronavirus (COVID-19) has warned its nationals against travelling to several Caribbean countries because of the COVID-19 situations in those countries. On the updated list of travel advisories today, the United States issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Cuba, The Bahamas, Guyana, Haiti, Dominican Republic and Belize. Crime was also the reason that Belize was listed as a Level 4 country. “Due to high crime, travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted.”

Videos

August 7, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

Ambergris Caye under 14-day quarantine after spike in COVID-19 cases
Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow announced on Thursday, August 6th that San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye is once again under quarantine following a surge in COVID-19 cases. The island shutdown is expected to commence at midnight Friday, August 7th with curfews for both adults and children. The situation on the island has been deemed as community transmission, with three clusters so far, and further cases yet to be confirmed. The State of Emergency on the island will prevent anyone traveling to or from the island and will be implemented via an Emergency Proclamation to be signed by Governor General Sir Colville Young later Thursday.

The Belize National Designated Authority Launches Studies on National Activities on Engagement with the Green Climate Fund
Since 2015, Belize has engaged with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to improve access to international funds and to encourage investment in projects and programmes that will help the country adapt to and mitigate climate change and its impacts. Through GCF readiness support, the National Designated Authority (NDA) is launching three case studies to outline Belize’s past engagement experiences with the GCF and future initiatives that will benefit key stakeholders. These include the Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Belize Sugar Industries (BSI), and by extension, the citizens of Belize as the country seeks to improve access to climate finance and the achievement of climate-related goals.

Ambergris Today

Ambergris Caye Lockdown Again For 14 Day Quarantine
After a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases in Belize, in particular San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, the Government of Belize has decided to implement an emergency proclamation for the entire country that includes a 14-day Quarantine Lockdown for San Pedro, Ambergris Caye and parts of the Orange Walk District, only. Besides the 13 new COVID-19 cases in Ambergris Caye, announced last night, Wednesday, August 5, 2020, 19 more cases are expected to be announced later today which is included in the 23 new case expected in the entire country. Community spread in San Pedro has been confirmed with one of the clusters on the island indicating a possible source of infection coming from Orange Walk, linking the two locations.

Twenty New Cases Confirmed In San Pedro, 28 Countrywide
For the second time in a week, we have to report a record number of identified positive cases for one single day. A total of 121 samples were processed today, August 6, 2020, some of these are still contacts from San Pedro, the northern districts and from the enhanced surveillance that is currently ongoing countrywide.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location

Elections and Boundaries Department Visit to Caye Caulker Cancelled
The Elections and Boundaries Department regrets to inform the general public that the scheduled visit to accept applications for registration and transfer of electors in Caye Caulker Village for the 7th, 8th and 9th August 2020 has been cancelled. The Department apologizes for any inconvenience that this cancellation may have caused; however the health and safety of all continues to be a priority.

Buying Seafood in San Pedro
To all our valued customers Hillyboo's Seafoods will still be selling and delivering on the conditions allowed. Sorry we won't be selling publicly anymore. You can either come to my shop on Back Street or order for deliveries. Please practice the safe protocols required. We have a healthy stock of fish, lobsters, crabs shrimps and fillets! 665 7106 for orders and deliveries! Eat healthy and stay safe San Pedro!

Corozal Town Council Online Payment Information
Due to the recent rise in cases of COVID-19 We would like to inform the General Public that you can make Online payments for your convenience and safety. Information for online payments are provided below. Our Offices are open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. visit us or call 480-2072 for more information.

Social Security Board Online Services
Social Security Board remains committed to safeguarding the health and safety of our staff and customers. In light of this, we strongly encourage the use of our Online Services.

Wildfire Artzmosphere Needs Your Help
The Wildfire Artzmosphere is looking for sponsors to help in these maga times. They've had so many great events over the years, from food events to plays(many original), to dances. If you can help them out, the community would be very appreciative. If you can..... cause it's real. sadly ...Sept could bring troubles

Western Dairies But one Get one Free Special
Western Dairies is having a buy one get one special on their ice cream this Saturday at their downtown location. Saturday August 8th 2020 at our San Ignacio branch. Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Buy from our truck to get your free icecream!

Coconut Festival Cancelled
Unfortunately, the Coconut Festival has been cancelled. Wear a mask!

The Department of Youth Services is continuing their football tournament this Sunday, and concluding it on the 16th
DYS Santa Elena is concluding this year’s summer activities with a U-20 football Tournament! The tournament has begun, with the last two games coming up on the 9th and 16th of August. This tournament’s objective is to engage youth to demonstrate their individual skills and abilities through sports. We recruited a total of 8 teams via google forms, targeting a total of 64 males between ages 15 - 20. Good luck to all the teams competing!

Temporary closure of three of the offices of the Labour Department
The public is hereby informed of the temporary closure of three of the offices of the Labour Department: Belize City, San Pedro and San Ignacio.

Social Security Board Donates $99,200 to the Ministry of Education
Today, the Minis, of Education received a donation of S99,200 from the Social Securi-ty Board to support the Health and Safety guidelines for the eventual reopening of schools in Belize. This donation will assist with the construction of two hundred and forty-eight (248) Hand Washing Stations necessary to ensure that all safety measures are in place for schools throughout the country. Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Board, Mrs. Deborah Ruiz and Chairman, Dr. Colin Young handed over the donation to Dr. Carol Babb, Chief Education Officer and Mrs. Deborah Domingo, Chief Executive Officer who accepted on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture.

COVID-19 Update from Office of Director of Health Services
For the second time in a week, we have to report a record number of identified positive cases for one single day. Today, we processed a total of 121 samples, some of these are still contacts from San Pedro, the northern districts and from the enhanced surveillance that is currently ongoing countrywide. We can confirm a total of 28 positive cases for SARS-CoV2 and the preliminary breakdown is as follows (this may change as further information is gathered):

San Pedro Town Council offices closed for 14 days
Please be advised that our offices will be closing for the two weeks (14 days) of quarantine as implemented by the Government of Belize. Our offices will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon, tomorrow, August 7th, 2020 for anyone wishing to access our services. Stay tuned to our Facebook pages for any updates. Do not forget to practice social distancing, always wear your mask, stay 6 feet apart from others and wash your hands regularly, but most importantly, stay home to stop the spread. Stay safe San Pedro, we can do this.

In Loving Memory of Kyle Yair Carias
Please join us in celebrating the beautiful life of Kyle Yair Carissa March 2005 - August 2020. We are gathering at the family’s home near the Caye Caulker football field for a wake on August 7, 2020. Please help to make the wake possible within the current law by following the measures described below.

A message from the Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School
Good afternoon Parents, Please take note that classes have been called off for August 10 by the Ministry of Education. There is not a set date of when school will reopen as yet. Please stay in tune with news update. The list for your children that will be in morning shift and afternoon shift will still be sent out tomorrow afternoon on the school's facebook. The teachers will also be giving you all a call personally to let you know too, or will be sending it out through chat group. The walk through video that was also set for Friday will be postpone to next week. We want to get everything ready before we do the walk through. Since now we have more time to be better prepared we will leave it for next week. You will all be notified of when and what time. Thanks for your understanding and support.

United States Donates Vehicles and Equipment to Ministry of National Security to Protect Border Security
On August 6, the United States Government donated an ambulance, six vehicles, and aircraft and vehicle parts valued at U.S. $1 million to the Belize Ministry of National Security in a handover ceremony at Force Headquarters on Price Barracks. The donation was funded by U.S. Southern Command’s Building Partner Capacity and Foreign Military Funding programs through the U.S. Embassy’s Security Cooperation Office. Today’s handover ceremony represents the culmination of almost three years of effort and partnership with the Ministry of National Security to purchase the equipment. The donation includes a fully-equipped Toyota Land Cruiser ambulance, six Hino 500 4x4 Troop Transport Vehicles and vehicle parts, and a container of aircraft parts.

Handover ceremony at Force Headquarters
Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Keith Gilges was honored to participate in today’s handover ceremony at Force Headquarters on Price Barracks, where the United States Government donated an ambulance, six vehicles, and aircraft and vehicle parts valued at U.S. $1 million to the Belize Ministry of National Security. The donation was funded by U.S. Southern Command’s Building Partner Capacity and Foreign Military Funding programs through the U.S. Embassy’s Security Cooperation Office. The ambulance, aircraft parts, and newly expanded vehicle fleet is expected to significantly improve the effectiveness of Belize’s border security operations.

Art & Soul series: Ultimate Sapphire Dance Company
This week's Art & Soul series showcases another talented Corozal dance group. Corozal is just brimming with talent!! We are delighted to feature the Ultimate Sapphire Dance Company. Since its inception in 2015, the company has been entertaining audiences locally, nationally and internationally. Their dynamic energy shines through with their large repertoire of dance including contemporary, Afro Caribbean, Belizean folklore, Latin contemporary/lyrical, urban dance, and funk jazz.. Congratulations to choreographer Mr. Victor Casanova for instilling artistic knowledge and a passion for dance unto this vibrant group of young performers.

Belize Natural Energy Charitable Trust Donates to Caledonia and San Narciso cultural groups
On behalf of The Caledonia and San Narciso cultural groups, we would like to extend a most sincere thanks to Belize Natural Energy Charitable Trust for providing this small donation towards the education of these children. We congratulate the parents and organizers for all their efforts in the promotion and safeguarding our Belizean Heritage through dance and music.

Channel 7

COVID Outbreak: 53 Active Cases, 24 More Could Be Added Tonight
There is community spread of COVID 19 on San Pedro - and tonight, the overall national picture is worsening, and worrying. There are 53 active cases, and 24 more could be added tonight. Two persons are currently hospitalised. The cases are spread across San Pedro, Orange Walk, Corozal, and as of last night, Belmopan has recorded its first case. The consequence of all this is that San Pedro is going to lock down at midnight tonight - as will the villages of Santa Marta, Guinea Grass and Shipyard in the Orange Walk District. Then, there will be another general, more relaxed state of emergency and curfew for the entire country.

San Pedro, We Have Lockdown
So, there were 86 cases up to last night and 23 more are expected to be confirmed tonight. The numbers are exploding and now that community spread has been confirmed on San Pedro - the first time it is being confirmed anywhere in Belize - that means the island is going on a lockdown - which will last for at least 14 days. The Prime Minister explained that that there will be measures for the entire country, but special attention will be paid to San Pedro and villages in Orange Walk: "We have decided that we will implement an emergency proclamation for the entire country of Belize but I want to explain that under that emergency proclamation, the regulations that will be prolongated will differ for Ambergris Caye, those will be of a particular nature and scope and compass, a second set of regulations under the general umbrella of the overall emergency proclamation for all of Belize. A second set of regulations will be prolongated with respect to the Orange Walk district and then of course there will be rather more limited, rather more general set of regulations that again..."

XCountrywide Curfew At Midnight
And, those San Pedro regulations will also apply in the Orange Walk District villages of Santa Marta, Guinea Grass and Shipyard. And for the rest of the Orange Walk District, and, indeed, the rest of the country, there will also be a curfew coming into effect at midnight tonight. Here's more from the PM: "The regulations for the country leaving aside Ambergris Caye and the villages in Orange Walk district, which have their own particularly draconian lockdown regulations, rest of the country including the rest of the Orange Walk district will be subject to regulations that will impose a curfew but it will be between the hours of 10 PM and 4:59 AM on weekdays and on weekends, the curfew will be from 12 AM to 4:59 AM. As well we are going to close bars, discotheques, rum shops and nightclubs country wide..."

Don’t Touch That Corona, Contraband Consumers Will Also Be Charged
And while the familiar regulations for social distancing, curfew, and limits to crowd numbers are coming into effect - one existing law is getting much more strict. It's the one regulating border jumpers and contraband. These outlaw activities have been driving the spike in the north, and today the PM announced draconian measures to crackdown, even on that bottle of corona you've been toasting on social media. Here's more: "The current prescription of a 3 months incarceration sentence in the first instance for any convicted border jumper - 3 months in the first instance and then a year or subsequent offence, we're going to increase that 3-month penalty to 6 months. Also, we are perhaps not by the way of the SI because I'm not certain that we can do that by means of subsidiary legislation but we are going to go to the house and we will make that border jumping offence, you're charged with the offence of border jumping, you will not be able to get bail from the magistrate's court, you will have to go to the supreme court..."

Lockdown Is Conservative To Protect Economy
And, for those who favour a total lockdown - especially of the north - the Prime Minister stressed that government must weigh the impact of a total lockdown on the economy and national life: "While we have to act, we don't want to overreact or to go too far too fast because if for example, we lockdown the entire country, we all know what that means in terms of bringing economic activity to a halt in terms of collapsing further government revenues, we're got to try to maintain as much as is consistent with our paramount concerns about health, we've got to maintain as much activity as we can, so that we can deliver the goods and services to the people. So that those that drive the private sector are not prematurely cut off, it's a huge deal when you lockdown completely."

Father of 4 Executed Two Years After His Brother
Tonight, the Humes-Baizar family has lost its second son to gang violence. It happened at 9:00 last night when Shakeem Humes Sr. was sitting in front of his home at 8 miles. That's when a vehicle parked in front of him, and someone inside called out to him. When he went over, a hail of bullets began to fly. Shakeem died on the spot, and this morning his sister told us that his death comes painfully close to the anniversary of their brother Shakidi's death, who was murdered in August 2018. Cherisse Halsall reports on this young father's violent end.

Police Move to Contain Retaliation
As you heard Humes was a well-known George Street figure. The same was said of his brother Shakidi. And, two years ago in the aftermath of his death, the cops had to deal with four gang-related killings in less than a week. But can the same be expected this time around? That's the question we put to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams. Here's how he responded. "No, we're not trying to go that route at this time. We don't want as something happen; we pull that. We will try to see how we can investigate and hope that we'll be able to go directly to the persons responsible and take those persons out of circulation and at the end of the day..."

Freak Boating Accident Kills Teen
15-year-old Kyle Carias died tragically and suddenly last night from injuries sustained in a freak boating accident. It's a turn of events that his family could never have imagined but one they are grappling with tonight. Cherisse Halsall has that story. Blood was left on the deck of this small boat yesterday when Kyle Carias's brother, Giovanni, rushed him off to Belize City in a desperate attempt to save his life. He was gravely injured when another boat passed too close causing a swell that knocked him overboard - and fell right unto the engine's propeller.

Cop Scalded For Trying To Enforce Mask Regulations
There's been a lot of police talk about enforcing COVID regulations - especially wearing face masks. But, this morning, a police inspector was assaulted by a civilian who was disobeying the law. Keith Clarke attempted to point this out to the man, who then threat scalding hot water on him. Seen here, he suffered severe burn injuries on the shoulder, for simply doing his job, and today, the Police Commissioner told the press that the civilian will be criminally charged for it:

Cops and Contraband Corruption
In the Prime Minister virtual press conference yesterday, he clearly stated that that Belizean law enforcement agents been aiding and abetting border jumpers. He said, quote, "The public officials of this country that are clearly very much in league with the border jumpers, that are clearly very much complicit in the kind of dangerous illegal activity that has, by and large, resulted in this new and deeper crisis that we're now experiencing." End quote.

Security CEO Discusses Cop Complicity In Contraband
This morning, when he was available at another event, the press asked National Security CEO George Lovell about the implications of law enforcement's complicity with the contrabandists who continue to jump the border. Here's what he had to say: "We get the same kind of information that the Prime Mime Minister get, at the Ministry of National Security. And it's sad, and it's very disturbing where you hear these kinds of things because these are the same people who we, the tax-payers, pay, and who we at the Ministry of National Security..."

Immigration Officers Turned Smugglers Part of Cross Border Corruption?
The press also asked the Police Commissioner about those 3 immigration officers who were caught yesterday with over 7 pounds of weed inside a white Mahindra pickup, which is owned by the Government of Belize. As we told you, they were intercepted in Orange Walk, near the toll bridge at a checkpoint between miles 40 and 50. When the cops searched the vehicle, they found a brown cardboard box, which was stashed with several parcels of marijuana, to a total weight of 3.3 kilos, or 7 and a half pounds. The ComPol told us this evening, that the drugs are believed to be of Mexican origin, which suggests that an illegal, cross-border element to this drug smuggling operation:

How Did Jumper Escape
And keeping it on news about cross-border concerns, yesterday, Jose David Perez, an alleged border jumper, from a village in the Cayo District, escaped from the quarantine centre at the Victor Galvez Stadium in the San Ignacio. Reports reaching the press are that an allegation has been raised that one of his relatives allegedly paid some sort of a bribe to a BDF soldier, to allow him to escape. "A boarder jumper in Cayo suggested that law enforcement in the form of BDF soldier was supposedly paid to facilitate the escape of this particular person."

BDF Commander On Poor Enforcement of Quarantine Centers
Earlier in the day, the press also asked the Commander of the BDF, Brigadier General Steven Ortega, about these escapes from quarantine facilities, that keep on happening while his soldiers are on guard duty. "The escape yesterday, they keep happening, escape from quarantine facilities. What is being done to date? You've spoken about the first two cases and then I think there has been at least 2 more if not more escapes. How are these soldiers being held accountable?"

Central Quarantine Facility Coming Along
And because these escapes from the quarantine facilities pose a huge risk to public health, the Ministry of National Security is setting up one central quarantine location for border jumpers, that can actually have the required security features. The Prime Minister had mentioned it last week, and here's the National Security's CEO update on it: "Always a concern and we're working on that. Cabinet has just approved for us to have a facility that we can say is build for purpose. When I say that, remember now, these border jumpers are kept in ITVET and stadiums and that these facilities are not built for purpose, so it's difficult and very challenging for our security forces and so Cabinet has just approved for us to have just a facility and we at National Security are currently working on trying to put together that facility and hopefully we will see less if not, no escapees."

Minister Says Schools Could Open in September
Belize's one hundred thousand primary school students are on a hyper - extended Easter straight through to summer break, but it could end in the first week of September. That's when school would have normally started - and it is now an aspirational date for opening after an explosion in the number of COVID cases forced the postponement of the August 10th opening date. The Minister of Education explained at yesterday's press conference: "Quite frankly right now, we're thinking about a two or three week delay if we can get this thing under control, and that the school year will start, as was to be scheduled, according to the Education Act, the first week in September. I am hesitant to make that announcement, but that is really what we have in mind. In the areas with increased or confirmed community spread, school reopening may be further delayed, while in areas with low risks or no apparent community spread, schools will be allowed to open for face to face instruction..."

Fears Rise As Possible COVID Cases Appear Across Institutions
At the top of the news you learned that effective at midnight, the country is going into another COVID lockdown - after community spread was confirmed on San Pedro. The number of active cases have more than doubled in a week - and today the Supreme court and the general registry announced that effective immediately, its courts and offices would be closed until Monday, august 10. This was done to facilitate the sanitization of our public areas - which we witnessed today as personnel in specialised suits were seen cleaning the courts. This is after the General Registry put out a notice saying that its staff members may have been exposed, quote, "in a general way" to COVID-19. Immediate action has been taken to send officers to be tested and put into isolation.

Tracking The Tourists Part 2
The airport won't open on August 15th - but the Prime Minister says it may open in September and tonight we have part two of our story on how tourists and returning residents will be tracked and monitored. There is a specific plan for returning Belizeans and other persons who will be staying in the country for a more extended period. Daniel Ortiz has that story: We've already told you how tourists - when they do come - will be kept within a safe corridor. Then, there is the other group of travellers, such as a returning Belizean, a person who owns a home and resides in Belize temporarily or permanently, or business travellers. They will have a different procedure to follow.

Whole Will Track The Bracelets?
This morning, National Security CEO George Lovell was asked about the actual enforcement and monitoring of the Belizeans who will be required to wear these tracking bracelets. He said that there will be a group of officials who will be assigned to ensure that Belizeans follow the rule of the tracking bracelet and the quarantine at home: "We had the discussions at Taskforce level, and I sit on the National Taskforce for COVID...."

US Donated To BDF
That opportunity to speak with the National Security CEO happened today at the Belize Defense Force's Price Barracks Headquarters in Ladyville. That's where the US Embassy in Belize handed over a 1-million-US-dollar donation to the BDF. The donation included a fully-equipped Toyota Land Cruiser ambulance, six Hino 500 4x4 Troop Transport Vehicles, vehicle parts, and a container of aircraft parts. This donation was funded by the U.S. Southern Command's Building Partner Capacity and Foreign Military Funding programs, through the U.S. Embassy's Security Cooperation Office.

Companies Donate to Contraband Effort
This evening, the Police Department also received a donation of its own in the form of a new police mobile equipped to carry out off-road patrols in and around the Corozal village of San Victor, which is located near to that northern district's border with Mexico. This area has been identified as an active hotspot for border jumpers, and so, a coalition of private-sector entities pooled their resources together to buy the police a 2020 Ford Ranger Pick-up truck.

Will US Ambassador Designate Make It To Belize Before the US Election?
3 weeks ago, we told you how US President Donald Trump finally made a nomination for the next US Ambassador to Belize. He's Andre Bauer, the former South Carolina Lieutenant Governor, who gained prominence from 2016 to 2019 as a pro-Trump analyst on CNN. It may take months for the Senate to confirm him as the US ambassador, but President Trump's term in office ends in November when he'll be up for re-election.

COMSTAT Says Crime Coming Down
And while police are making much news right now as the frontline troopers trying to keep Belize safe from border jumpers, that's not considered major crime. Today the police department had its bi-annual COMSTAT meeting to discuss those major crime stats. It's a good picture, as major crime in the first 6 months of the year is down by 24.1% murders decreased by 22.7% in that period, meaning there were 15 fewer murders in January to June of 2020 compared to the same period last year.

SSB Sponsors Soap For Schools
By now, every Belizean parent and child surely knows that school reopening's have been pushed back to a date to be announced. And while the bell won't ring on Monday, there were many preparations for school already on the way. An all-important one is the outfitting of handwashing stations. As we've told you many schools were ill-equipped without enough of the potentially life-saving sinks. It's a problem that the Chief education Officer Carol Babb was rushing to solve.

Health Minster Has Gas Problems
When the threat of COVID first appeared, Belize didn't have nearly enough ventilators to respond in the event of a national crisis. But, thanks to purchases and donations, the country has more ventilators than ever before. And these are being deployed to regional and community hospitals in the event that COVID infected persons in respiratory distress start appearing. But, this ventilators need oxygen, and the Ministry says it has a contractual difference with the private company which supplies the gas: Hon. Pablo Marin - Minister of Health: "You all know that we have all our ventilators. We have at KHMH we have 6 ventilators. But we have already buy (SIC) more ventilators, we have gotten donations for ventilators, and we were going to install 6 more in Belmopan, we were going to install in Orange Walk, we were going to install in Corozal. nut now the company that is the one in charge of putting those gasses they came with proposal stating that you know what, they're going to, to give us a portion of the finance..."

Channel 5

Prime Minister Dean Barrow Announces Countrywide Quarantine Measures
Strident measures are being imposed across the country due to an exploding number of cases of corona virus. There are more than fifty active cases as of now. First, we [...]

Ambergris Caye on Lockdown!
Now in the case of San Pedro, hundreds have been leaving the island.  Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced today that Ambergris Caye, where there is community spread and two COVID-19 [...]

Three Villages in Orange Walk Quarantined
Turning to Orange Walk….the villages of Santa Martha, Shipyard and Guinea Grass will also go into lockdown at midnight. Santa Martha is of particular concern because a cluster has been [...]

Community Spread of COVID-19 in San Pedro
What led to the lockdown and curfew is an additional fourteen cases of COVID-19 that were identified overnight, bringing the total number of active cases of the virus in Belize [...]

Non-Essential Travel Across the Country Must be Avoided
Contact tracing for the positive case in Belmopan begins; that person is linked to the Santa Martha case in the north. The mapping exercise continues for the clusters in San [...]

Stricter Penalties for Border Jumpers
Border jumpers are giving rise to an increase in the number of cases especially so in bordering communities.  Government will also be going to the House to amend legislation to [...]

Shakeem Humes Executed Outside his Home at the 8 Miles Community
A gang related murder occurred on Wednesday night. Skakeem Humes Senior was shot multiple times and died at the K.H.M.H. undergoing treatment.  The police say that three men drove up [...]

Brothers Charged in Connection with Fatal Shooting in the West!
Police have arrested and charged two brothers in connection with the double murder that happened on Sunday, July nineteenth in San Ignacio. Thirty-one-year-old Minor Galindo and thirty-four-year-old David Galindo of [...]

Immigration Employees Busted with Weed
Three employees of the Immigration Department have been detained by police in connection with drug trafficking but the men will not be formally charged until two weeks’ time. Police say [...]

Boating Accident Victim Dies
On Wednesday we reported on a boating incident that happened off the coast of Caye Caulker and left a teenager critical. Well, tonight we report that the victim Fifteen-year-old student [...]

Officer Scalded by Resident
A frontline worker was attacked by a resident who refused to wear a mask. This morning, Inspector Keith Clarke was scalded with boiling water near the Pound Yard Bridge when [...]

Border Jumpers Putting Public Health at Risk
Border jumpers and contraband go together; the illegal activity continues to flourish in border communities in the north where there is an insatiable appetite for Mexican goods, with beer at [...]

Duck Run Border Jumper on the Run!
The authorities are still trying to track down the border jumper who escaped from the quarantine facility in the west.  Jose David Perez, a villager of Duck Run, escaped from [...]

Another Person Escapes Quarantine Facility
So far you have heard that immigration officers have been busted with weed and cops are involved in contraband. Now, a man escaped from the quarantine facility in San Ignacio [...]

Female Soldier Tested for COVID-19
A female soldier has been tested for the deadly coronavirus. This was confirmed by B.D.F. Commander Brigadier General Steven Ortega today. According to Ortega the female officer came in contact with [...]

Contraband Cops? What?
And while law enforcement officers are trying to prevent border jumpers, they also have to deal with their very own officers. Reliable reports are that police officers are not only [...]

Public Officers, including Law Enforcement, facilitating Illegal Trade of Goods
The Prime Minister on Wednesday suggested that public officials, including law enforcement, are complicit in allowing persons practicing contraband activities by facilitating the illegal trade.  Commissioner of Police Chester Williams [...]

Major Crimes are Down for the First Half of 2020!
While crime is abundant, tonight police are reporting good crime stats for the first half of this year.  Commissioner of Police Chester Williams says that major crimes are down, with [...]

National Security C.E.O. Speaks on Private Flight
A private flight landed in the country reportedly on July tenth, days ahead of the fishing tournament in San Pedro, Ambergris. That tournament is now considered a super COVID-19 spreader. [...]

PM Supports Private Flights for Certain Purposes
According to Prime Minister Dean Barrow a decision will be made next week whether private flights will be allowed to continue to enter and exit the country during the pandemic. [...]

Belize Hotel Association Reacts to G.O.B.’s Decision to Not Open the P.G.I.A. on August 15th
Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced on Wednesday that the Philip Goldson International Airport will no longer reopen on August fifteenth. This is due to the alarming increase of COVID-19 cases.  [...]

U.S. Embassy Donates to the Belize Defence Force
Six Hino troop-carrying vehicles, an ambulance, and aircraft spares were today handed to the Belize Defence Force. The donation is worth a little over a million dollars and it comes [...]

9 Private Sector Companies Donate Vehicle to Police Department for Contraband Fight
A group of Belizean private sector companies made a significant contribution to the Belize Police Department today in its fight against the illicit contraband trade. The forty-five thousand-dollar investment comes [...]

Fabrigas Prepared to Supply Any Amount of Oxygen Necessary Due to the Pandemic
Due to the ongoing crisis of COVID-19, Fabrigas Belize issued a release today to assure the public that it has the capacity to supply the country with medical oxygen.  The [...]

Healthy Living: Breastfeeding in COVID
It is world breastfeeding week. It is being celebrated under the theme, “Support Breastfeeding for a Healthier Planet.”  But what are the risks associated with breastfeeding during a pandemic? We [...]

The Reporter

14 Day Quarantine, San Pedro locked down again
The Prime Minister has announced that the country will go into 14 days of quarantine. San Pedro will undergo a complete lockdown and a curfew will be in effect between 4:59 am. to 7.59 pm. In Orange Walk the villages of Guinea Grass, Santa Martha, and Shipyard, will undergo a complete lockdown as well. The rest of the country will experience curfew between 10:00 pm to 4:59 am on weekdays and 12:00 am to 4:59 am on weekends.

Supreme Court closed due to suspected exposure to Covid-19 virus
The Supreme Court in Belize City has been closed down due to the suspected exposure of several staff members to the COVID-19 virus. We were told that several staff members have been sent home to quarantine. Those individuals will be tested for the virus and the results are expected to be available this weekend. Depending on those results, the Supreme Court will resume business on Monday.

Breaking Belize News

Belize registers 28 new cases of COVID-19, confirmed cases now at 114
The Ministry of Health has confirmed 28 new cases of COVID-19. A record high of […]

Government stiffens penalties for contraband and border jumping
Those found jumping the borders, which officially remains closed, now face stiffer penalties, as do […]

Schools remain closed, authority figures to be charged for abetting flouting of regulations
Schools are closed until further notice and will not be allowed to open in any […]

Attorney General defends mask wearing protocol
Defending his own recent picture where he is shown not wearing a mask while on […]

ASK THE EXPERTS PRIMETIME: Rest of Belize restricted by curfew
According to Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte, it was necessary to put the entire country under […]

ASK THE EXPERTS PRIMETIME: A.G. details ins and outs for “lockdown” areas in Orange Walk, Ambergris
Effective at midnight tonight, the villages of Santa Martha, Guinea Grass and Shipyard and all […]

United States donates vehicles and equipment to Ministry of National Security to protect borders
On August 6, the United States Government donated an ambulance, six vehicles, and aircraft and […]

US grants UNICEF, Ministries of Education and Health US $300,000 for COVID-19 prevention response
The U.S. Government and Agency for International Development (USAID) today delivered US $300,000 (BZ $600,000) […]

“Teachers still required to return to work,” says Minister of Education
Minister of Education, Patrick Faber, said today that teachers, except for those who live and […]

Director of Health Services says there may be 23 more COVID-19 cases announced today
During the COVID-19 press briefing being held this afternoon, the Director of Health Services (DHS), […]

Several Orange Walk villages to be placed on quarantine
The villages of Santa Martha, Shipyard and Guinea Grass, in the Orange Walk district, will […]

“Emergency proclamation for the entire country, San Pedro on complete lockdown” says Prime Minister
Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced today that because of the surge in COVID-19 caes, the […]

Number of COVID-19 cases now at 86, community transmission in San Pedro confirmed
Today health authorities say that COVID-19 community spread has been confirmed in San Pedro, Ambergris […]

University of Belize says no confirmed case of COVID-19 among staff
This morning, rumors circulated like wildlife that a staff member of the University of Belize […]

Ask The Experts goes live with Attorney General tonight
A special edition of the Government of Belize broadcast “Ask The Experts” will air live […]

Teacher’s Union grateful for delayed reopening of schools, reminds teachers to report to work
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) said today that it is grateful for the Government […]

Supreme Court General registry sends home staff amidst suspected COVID-19 case
The Supreme Court General registry issued a notice this morning saying that members of its […]

Woman reportedly flung from vehicle in road traffic accident
Reports are reaching our newsroom of a road traffic accident in the vicinity Burrell Boom […]

Registration and transfers canceled for electors in Caye Caulker Village
The Elections and Boundaries Department informed today that the scheduled visit to accept applications for […]

Teenager dies following boating accident
Kyle Carias, 15, died yesterday following a boating accident in Caye Caulker. Carias, a student […]

Food warning labels good for your health, says Healthy Caribbean Coalition
The Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) points to two recent studies suggesting that front of package […]

George Street affiliate killed in mile 8 community
Last night 27-year-old Shakeem Humes also known as “Bap”, a known affiliate of the reputed […]

CARICOM celebrates Jamaica’s 58th Independence Anniversary
The island of Jamaica is marking 58 years of independence from Great Britain today, Thursday. […]

American Airlines may cancel travel to Belize market long term due to postponement of airport reopening
At his original announcement of the reopening date of the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) […]

Child in San Pedro diagnosed with COVID-19
On Wednesday, August 5, 2020, the Ministry of Health detected 14 new cases of COVID-19. […]

Belize monitoring 53 active cases of COVID-19
Health authorities are currently monitoring 53 active cases of COVID-19. Of the active cases, 25 […]

Blogs

The CoVid-19 Update in Belize: Airport Re-opening Canceled, Complete 14-Day Quarantine in Place For Ambergris Caye
Yesterday, August 5th, our Prime Minister, Dean Barrow, held a press conference to make official what many of us had been hearing. There were two new cases in San Pedro – and there seemed to be quite a bit of spread. Over 50 tests had been taken – and we were awaiting results. There were cases in the Orange Walk District in the NW Corner of Belize. More testing was being done there. The International Airport would NOT open as planned on August 15 – canceled with no re-opening date. Our schools would NOT be opening on August 10th. All re-openings would be scheduled based on the numbers – we need to get these numbers down before we can re-open school or the country to visitors.

International Sources

Belize Suspends Border Reopening After COVID-19 Cases Surge
The government of Belize announced a delay in the re-opening of Philip Goldson International (PIGA) due to a “spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in three districts,” said Dean Barrow the country’s prime minister, in a statement. The airport opening “will be announced at a later date,” Barrow said. Preliminary results in Belize’s popular San Pedro district resulted in 14 new potentially positive cases of COVID-19, but government health officials are “currently undergoing the confirmation process,” said Barrow in a statement. Although the airport will not reopen, weekly repatriation flights for Belizean nationals will continue, with all returning residents subject to mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival. To date, Belize has reported 57 COVD-19 cases with two deaths from the virus.

Current pause in Atlantic tropical activity won't last long, expert warns
A lull in tropical activity over the Atlantic basin that began right after Isaias's demise on Wednesday is likely to last through this weekend, but the quiet conditions are not likely to last long given 2020's track record. "Sea surface temperatures continue to run much higher than normal across the southern part of the Atlantic, much of the Gulf of Mexico and along the southeastern coast of the United States," AccuWeather's top hurricane expert Dan Kottlowski said. "The very warm water and generally favorable winds in the middle and upper part of the atmosphere are creating lower-than-average surface pressure over much of the Atlantic basin, which in turn has created and will continue to create a favorable environment for tropical development in the long term," Kottlowski explained.

U.S. Government launches U.S. $300,000 project to fund UNICEF emergency response initiatives for children in Belize affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
The United States Government, through the U.S. Embassy and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), announced the launch today of a U.S. $300,000 project to fund UNICEF’s work to reduce the risk and impact of COVID-19 for vulnerable children and adolescents in Belize. During today’s ceremony at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence, the U.S. Embassy announced the launch of its project to fund COVID-19 prevention and mitigation measures through its partnership with UNICEF. Areas of intervention will focus on: risk communication and community engagement; improving infection prevention and control, including with water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services; providing critical hygiene supplies; and data collection and analysis.

Videos

August 6, 2020

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Specials and Events

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

Opening of PGIA and schools postponed; increase in COVID-19 cases could lead to quarantine of Ambergris Caye and Orange Walk
The Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) will no longer re-open on August 15th as previously scheduled. Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow made this announcement on Wednesday, August 5th during a virtual press conference. Additionally, islanders were informed that there could be 14 potential positive cases of COVID-19 in San Pedro Town, whose confirmation will be made by Thursday, August 6th the latest. Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero said that the initial processing of around 50-55 samples from the island was signalling about 14 confirmed cases of the disease.

Reopening of the PGIA and Schools Delayed
Today at a press conference held in Belize City, it was announced that due to a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in three districts, there will be a delay in the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). Prime Minister Rt. Dean Barrow said that although the airport will not reopen, the weekly repatriation flights for Belizean nationals abroad will continue, including the 14-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival. Additionally, the Minister of Education Hon. Patrick Faber announced that the reopening the schools will also be delayed.

Vildo Westby convicted for the 2017 murder of Felix Ayuso
The island community is relieved with the news that justice has prevailed after Vildo Lorenzo Westby was convicted on Wednesday, August 5th for the brutal murder of San Pedro’s beloved Felix Ayuso. Westby had initially fled to Mexico after Ayuso’s lifeless body was discovered on February 4, 2017. A few months after, Westby was detained by Mexican authorities and after a while, deported to Belize. He has since been at the Belize Central Prison. While details are not forthcoming, The San Pedro Sun understands that the trial was held at the Supreme Court in Belize City without a jury. Westby was informed of the crime and convicted for murder. Further information states that he will be sentenced in September of this year.

Ambergris Today

Thirteen of Fourteen New COVID-19 Cases are from San Pedro
The Office of the Director of Health Services in Belize has just released new numbers in the COVID-19 cases in the country. They have identified a further 14 cases today, this is the second highest number of cases after yesterday's record of 15. Thirteen of those cases are in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

BNTU Advises Teachers and Students to Remain Out of the Classroom
Today the BNTU sent out the following press release, advising teachers to remain out the classroom due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in the country. The date set for the reopening of schools on Monday August 10, 2020.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Thursday, August 6th Meal Pick ups: Location: Hibisca. Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30pm.

BNTU Advises Teachers and Students to Remain Out of the Classroom
The Ministry of Education, on June 8th, 2020, announced its intent to reopen schools on Monday, August 10th, 2020, and has since been on a continuous media campaign to that effect. The Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) has been closely monitoring the COVID 19 situation in our country and today has concluded that we must discourage our teachers from returning to school and also parents from sending their children back to their classrooms on Monday.

Protocols for parents interested in home schooling
The Ministry of Education has released protocols for parents interested in home schooling their children this upcoming school year. Home Schooling Application Forms are electronically available via MOE's website at www.moe.gov.bz

Home Schooling Agreement

Updated COVID-19 hotline numbers
Kindly take note of the updated COVID-19 hotline numbers at the district level. Persons can still call the 0-800-MOH-CARE toll free number for any and all COVID-19 health-related information.

COVID-19 UPDATE from Office of Director of Health Services
Fifty-one (51) samples were processed today for SARS-CoV2. We have identified a further 14 cases today, this is the second highest number of cases after yesterday's record of 15. The breakdown is as follows: - 10 of the cases are related to the case identified on Sunday in San Pedro (some close contacts are still pending to be processed) - 1 case (in Belmopan) who was contact to the patient hospitalized at the Northern Regional Hospital

The Belize National Designated Authority Launches Studies on National Activities on Engagement with the Green Climate Fund
Since 2015, Belize has engaged with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to improve access to international funds and to encourage investment in projects and programmes that will help the country adapt to and mitigate climate change and its impacts. Through GCF readiness support, the National Designated Authority (NDA) is launching three case studies to outline Belize’s past engagement experiences with the GCF and future initiatives that will benefit key stakeholders.

Reopening of the PGIA and Schools Delayed
Today at a press conference held in Belize City, it was announced that due to a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in three districts, there will be a delay in the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). Prime Minister Rt. Dean Barrow said that although the airport will not reopen, the weekly repatriation flights for Belizean nationals abroad will continue, including the 14-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival. Additionally, the Minister of Education Hon. Patrick Faber announced that the reopening the schools will also be delayed.

Contact numbers for the Unemployment Relief Program have been updated
Kindly note that the assistance contact numbers for the Unemployment Relief Program have been updated: If you need further information on the employment relief program, please send an email to unemployment@covid19.bz You can also call or text 613-1474 or 613-1149 Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Messages can be sent to the email at any time.

BBQ Fundraiser on Caye Caulker for Ms Heni
Ms Heni is an outstanding member of the Caye Caulker Community. She is always willing to help in any way she can. She is an active member for the Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School (CCRCS). She had an unfortunate accident and requires immediate surgery. Please let us support her with these fundraisers so that she can get her surgery. Every little bit helps. Contact Miss Seni Smith if you wish to purchase tickets. Tickets can also be purchased from Nicki Aguilar and Kristel Augilar.

Update on Plans for the Reopening of School
1. Will schools reopen on August 10, 2020 as previously planned? Although the Ministry of Education (MOE) had planned for a national reopening of schools on August 10, 2020, based on the extensive contact tracing currently being conducted by the Ministry of Health, the MOE has decided to delay the reopening of schools until further notice. 2. What are schools expected to do in the meantime? Teachers and principals are required to continue the preparations for the eventual reopening of schools and to develop their learning continuity plans and distance education resources in the event of prolonged school closure.

Corozal Chinese Community Offering Food Pantries
Like so many others, our Chinese community in Corozal has been exceptional during our COVID-19 crisis. Tomorrow, August 6th our Corozal Chinese Community once again will be handing over food pantries to the needy people immediately surrounding rural Corozal Town through its respective Village Chairperson. The reason it is being handed to the respective village Chairperson is to avoid over crowding in one location.

Thunderbolt Schedule Change
We will resume our run at 7am Corozal to San Pedro tomorrow 6th August, returning at 3pm from San Pedro to Corozal

COMMISSIONER OF POLICE VISITS COROZAL POLICE FORMATION TO BOOST MORAL
Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams this afternoon visited the Corozal Town Police Station and spoke to the police officers who were working on their day shift. Drastic, important and recent measures in Corozal have been taken at the Corozal Police Station, such as COVID-19 testings, police officers being quarantined, the police stations and police vehicles are being properly fumigated. COMPOL Williams' visit, was to update the police officers of the present COVID-19 situation in Corozal and to build the moral of his officers at the Corozal Police Station.

ARCHANGEL MEDICAL CENTER CLARIFIES
We are open and operating our regular hours. Rumors that are currently being spread are false. We are very strict with our triage. Face mask and sanitizing is a must before entering the clinic. Neither Dra. Paharsingh or Dr. Riveroll have been placed in quarantine due to any contact with suspected cases. Each patient who comes can only have one companion. Please share and thank you.

Escuela Secundaria Tecnica Mexico Meeting Cancelled
NOTE: Escuela Secundaria Tecnica Mexico (ESTM). Please take note that the parent/teacher meeting for August 6th and 7th has been cancelled until further notice. You will be updated if there is any change.

Telethon raised over $32,000 for the Belize Zoo
The Belize Zoo's "Feed the Animals" Telethon hosted by @colorblindbz was an amazing and novel experience for us, and so successful thanks to our wonderful supporters. There was a first class lineup of hosts and entertainers for 5 hours of programming with fantastic results. We are happy to announce that we exceeded our target of BZ$25,000 and were able to raise BZ$32,700! These funds will go directly into the care, nutrition and enriched quality of life for over 200 animals in the Zoo's care, representing 45 native species of Belizean wildlife. TBZTEC management, staff, and animals thank you for your incredible support! The Belize Zoo

Volunteers from the U.S. Embassy visit St. Margret's School
We want to thank St. Margret's School for allowing volunteers from the U.S. Embassy to take part in back to school preparations last Saturday. What a great opportunity to get to know new friends and neighbors in the Cayo district! The volunteers had a blast helping clean up the classrooms and grounds as well as getting the opportunity to meet some of the children when distributing donated bags and supplies.

Alert from the San Pedro Tourist Guide Association
All of us MUST do our part. It is that simple. Not one person or a small group of people can get it done. It will take the entire community to come together and fight this virus together . Indeed there will be really tough and challenging days ahead, but our ancestors have gotten through tough times in the past and so will we! There is quite a long road ahead for us , but as long as we work together we can rise above all challenges we are facing now and will face ahead! Lets be Responsible Adults and follow the very basic Guidelines of Washing hands frequently, Wearing Mask in Public, Practicing Social Distancing and Keeping away from crowded places. We can and We will Get through this San Pedro!

Channel 7

COVID Cases Spike, School Reopening Pushed Back
Everything can change in a dayand it has! After 15 positive cases for COVID 19 were confirmed last night in Orange Walk, Corozal and San Pedro, government has completely changed its COVID 19 rollout plan. And so, schools will not open next week August 10th, and tourism will not open on August 15th. The announcement was made this evening at a national press conference to discuss the response to the changing COVID numbers:

Airport Opening Pushed Back
Faber added that the opening of schools may be pushed back a few weeks to early September, and the opening may be staggered across regions. That means COVID free areas may open before areas that have active cases. But, the airport? Well that's a whole other matter - and the PM explained today that it can't be opened with all these cases: "The majority of them would have been going to Ambergris Caye, to San Pedro, that is clearly not on any longer and so it seems to me that that alone, knocks in the head any contemplation of trying to press forward with the August 15th re-opening of the PGIA so let me declare absolutely, unequivocally that we will not now reopen the PGIA on August 15th..."

A Spike Of 15 Cases Last Night
And so, all this has been prompted by the national COVID situation which went from green one week ago, to yellow over the weekend, with 9 new cases, to red overnight with 15 new cases. Dr Manzanero discussed them today: "Yesterday out of the 15 cases and I'll break it down by geographic locations; we had one case from San Pedro, 7 cases from Corozal and 7 cases from Orange Walk. The easy ones first: from Corozal we had 5 out of the 7 were from repatriated persons, 3 of those have been from people seeking medical care outside of Belize, 2 were coming in through the routine repatriation process..." "

Possible 14 Cases On San Pedro
And while that is the national picture, the situation is most serious on San Pedro and in the Orange Walk district. The Ministry of health is not calling it community spread, but sporadic cases, or clusters. Here's more about San Pedro: where there could be 14 cases and counting: Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "Coming now to Ambergris Caye, well, that is where it seems the bacchanal took place in earnest and that is why I suppose you are talking about preliminarily 14 cases and the tracking and tracing exercises are not yet complete. Now at the moment, apart from the 14 that preliminarily are positive but which the doctors and their team at the central lab will have to confirm."

Fishing Tournament Was Super Spreader Event
And one event on San Pedro that is being closely looked at is the Grand Caribe Fishing Deep sea Classic Tournament that happened on the 18th and 19th of July. This is now being called a super spreader event: Dr. Marvin Manzanero, DHS: "We also think that the person in San Pedro that we identified on Sunday is not the index case. There is an indication that her family members actually fell ill before she became ill, so they probably were the initial index cases if you will or the initial index case and she was the last person in that immediate family to have fallen ill and she was the one we picked up..."

Fishing Tournament Attendees Stay Put And Monitor For Symptoms
So, what should you do if you attended this event, or if someone in your family did. The PM says stay put, and wait to see if symptoms appear: "The possibility of infections of the virus having been transmitted at that event to people from Belize City and from elsewhere in the country is an extremely serious one. You heard what Dr. Manza said - the numbers there are such that you can't realistically do the regular mapping and tracking and tracing exercise, so he will have to put out a call to say to those who were at that event if you begin to see any kind of symptoms the ministry will put out the number that you can call and of course ministry personnel will go to your home to do the testing."

No Mexicans At Fishing Tournament
As far as the Commissioner of Police is concerned there were no Mexican's in attendance. That's the info he got from Commanding officer Chris Noble. He told us how that conversation went earlier today. "You know we have heard all sorts of allegations and the easiest thing to do is to make allegations but when we have allegations that is not substantiated with evidence then there is little we can do. I have heard the allegations myself and I personally contacted the officer in charge of San Pedro, Mr. Noble and I asked him the question and Mr. Noble assured me that there were no Mexicans at the tournament..."

Which Areas Will Be Put On Lockdown?
So with significant cases popping up in Orange Walk, San Pedro and Corozal - will the government institute lockdowns? Or, will it at least lock down San Pedro? Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "Together with the minister of health, of course the minister of education, the deputy prime minister and if possible, the rest of the cabinet, if not, because we want to move quickly, the attorney general clearly who is responsible for the drafting, we will meet and try as well to consult with members of the national oversight committee before we present you with the raft of legal measures that will be promulgated to try and deal with the situation but I am saying that it is clear to me already that Corozal does not fall into quite the same category as Orange Walk and Ambergris Caye."

On The Contraband Frontline
Tonight, whether by private jet or by illegal border crossing, a new wave of COVID-19 has hit Belize. And from one day to the next, the re-openings of the P.G.I.A. and the school year have been pushed back indefinitely. But how did we get here? What's certain, is that many if not all of the cases came via the northern districts of Orange Walk and Corozal. And that's just where the Commissioner of Police went this morning, leading a caravan of police and media to the proverbial pores in that famously porous border. Cherisse Halsall was along for the ride.

How Did Cops Get COVID?
And for the hundreds of officers charged with patrolling the border and intercepting jumpers, COVID-19 is a massive occupational hazard. That's because the highly contagious disease has the potential to decimate an active police force leaving the internal security of the nation in the balance. After all, 14 officers had to be placed on quarantine in Corozal when a woman constable tested positive, and today, 20 officers in that formation got swabbed. We'll wait and see what the results are. They could translate into a nightmare for the Commissioner, but it's a very real occupational risk in this very difficult kind of frontline work. The commissioner told us today he's at pains to avoid that risk:

Managing Police From the North
And to avoid that most dystopian of scenarios, policing by the military, The Commissioner has warned his officers to steer clear of the north. He's also told those who live there to avoid mingling and whenever possible, to just stay home. "Also sent out an advisory advising that while we have not put any travel ban to the North, that police officers are advised not to visit the north unless there is an extreme need to do so..."

Cops and Contraband?
Some of those northern cops are rumored to themselves engage or at least indulge in contraband goods. We asked the Commissioner about those allegations today but he said that he's yet to see the evidence. "There is all kind of rumors but until I can confirm we cannot say but I have sent the warning to police officers if they are involved then they must stop. I can tell you if it is that we get any evidence against any police officer who is involved they are going to face the same consequence like the ordinary citizen, we aren't going to take up for them."

Is Border Unit Jumping On Jumpers?
There are also allegations about a border jumping unit that's making less than its share of arrests. It's the unit settled Trinidad village, which villagers say has ceased doing night patrols. We put the question to the Commissioner, but he defended the unit. "I don't know where you get that from because most of the border jumpers who've been apprehended in the north we're apprehended by the team in Santa Cruz and it's not Trinidad. The officers just stay in Trinidad. Trinidad is not known to be a border crossing area. That is more in..."

Pedro Cops Have To Say Put
And while those cops may be busy on the traversing border backroads their counterparts on Ambergris Caye are on lockdown. This afternoon we got word that No police officer will be allowed to visit or leave the island the only exception being island officers who were on leave on the mainland, they will be allowed to return to work. It's a safety measure that the Commissioner provided an explanation for earlier today. Reporter: "Sir, we are getting word that no police officer will be allowed to enter or leave the island of San Pedro for the next 14 days barring officers that were on leave on the mainland and have to return to work. Can you comment?"

Man Found Guilty Of San Pedro Murder
He's been on remand awaiting murder for almost 2 years, but tonight 32-year-old Vildo Lorenzo Westby is back at prison awaiting a sentencing hearing. That's after he was found guilty today of the February 2017 murder of 44-year-old Jose Felix Ayuso. Viewers may remember that crime, which was a cause of great pain for the San Pedro community. Ayuso was the owner of a unisex salon on the island, and he was also a well-known AIDS activist. Westby, the man now convicted of his murder, was on the run from the island cops for almost a year, until he was caught in Mexico, and he was sent back to Belize as a wanted fugitive.

Immigration Officers Busted with Weed In Dept Truck
In the middle of all the COVID concern we've been reporting on, there's a quite remarkable story coming out of the north. Today in Orange Walk near the toll bridge, Special Branch police intercepted a government pickup, a Mahindra, allegedly smuggling over 7 pounds of weed. Three immigration staffers were Inside the Department pickup when they were stopped at a checkpoint between miles 40 and 50 on the Phillip Goldson Highway.

Two Alleged Murder Masterminds Charged
Two weeks ago we told you about the horrific murders of Windell Trapp and Samuel Hill. It happened in front of a crowded San Ignacio nightclub and left three others including police officer Danny Jimenez gravely injured. It's a crime for which two men 33-year-old John Alexander Hendy, of Santa Elena and 26-year-old Travis Tyler Navarro of Belize City have already been arrested and charged.

The Future of Travel (to Belize)
At the top of the news, we told you about the announcement from the Prime Minister that the Philip Goldson International Airport will not open on August 15th, as had been planned. That's after a sudden spike in the number of coronavirus cases in Corozal, Orange Walk, and San Pedro, which has health authorities concerned that there is possibly a community spread of the deadly and contagious virus. Although the Airport will not open in 10 days, the authorities are still preparing for the day when it will actually happen. This evening, we got a chance to speak with Mike Singh, the Chief Technology Officer from the Government's Central Information Technology Office, about the plan, which would have been implemented, had the government moved ahead with the August 15th reopening. Here's what he told Daniel Ortiz about the COVID protocol that visitors will have to abide by when that day finally comes:

Will American Airlines Strong-arm Belize?
And so now that the airport will not open - what happens with the airline, which likes to have their way, and don't like to reschedule or refund flights that have already been booked? That's what we asked the PM today:

OW Market Stays Closed
And while American Airlines will just have to wait - so will shoppers at the Orange Walk town market. That market will remain closed for the next 14 days. That's because the relatives of a confirmed case who own a stall at the market are said to have been operating as late as Saturday. Still, the market's closure is a difficult decision that affects many livelihoods and one that the town's mayor says his council does not take lightly. HE spoke to CRTV-3 today.

Senate Debates Southside State of Emergency
And, in other news, the Senate met today in Belmopan. The only issue they debated was the Southside state of emergency being extended for two months. The debate on the house on Monday was lively and revealing and it was rough in the Senate today as well. Here's the back and forth:

Why BNTU Told Students and Teachers To Not go to School
And speaking on the adjournment AT today's Senate meeting, Labour Representative Elena Smith outlined why the BNTU sent out a press release today telling teachers and students not to go to school next Monday. It was a major release and if the Ministry had any doubts, that disclaimer certainly tipped the decision in favour of not opening schools.

Investigating The Pecarry Kill
And in an update to the story we ran last night on those dead peccaries in the Toledo District, CEO in the Ministry of the Environment Percival Cho says the investigation has shown that there are no water quality issues in the area. "The team from the forestry department met and drove around with the chairman, a police officer and personnel from Belize Audubon Society.

Another Jumper
And even is Belize is going through its toughest COVID spell so far, the reports of border jumpers keep on coming in. Police say that around 7:45 last night, two specialized units in San Pedro responded to reports that someone entered the country illegally, and was on the island. They later encountered 47-year-old Julio Rodolfo Oscal Gonzalez, a naturalized Belizean construction worker of 21 Angel Coral Street.

Channel 5

15 New Cases of COVID-19; an Additional 14 Confirmed Today
The news tonight is that number of corona virus cases continues to climb setting new records.  As many as fifteen new cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed setting a [...]

No Community Spread, But Clusters and Sporadic Cases
There is no community spread as yet, but Ambergris Caye, Orange Walk and, to a lesser extent, Corozal remain areas of great concern given the contact tracing and testing taking [...]

Schools Will Not Reopen on August 10th
One of the big announcements is regards in the opening of schools. Now parents and teachers have been expressing concern over the health of their children and those of the [...]

Teachers – Keep Preparing, Get Contingency Plans Going
But even as a date for the reopening of schools has not been set, Minister of Education Patrick Faber stressed the need for teachers to continue to prepare for the [...]

PM Retracts Statement About Private Flight
We will come to the latest on the P.G.I.A., but during the course of his lengthy presentation today, the Prime Minister misspoke, saying that a flight from Texas had arrived [...]

Private Flight Landed in Belize for Fishing Tournament
While that private jet clearly did not land in Belize, there are reports of a private flight into Belize.  According to reports, the private flight carried the family of a [...]

Philip Goldson International Airport Will NOT Reopen on August 15th
The long anticipated reopening of the airport will not happen as planned. After a very stern warning to the nation about not practicing quarantine guidelines, the Prime Minister said that [...]

American Airlines Cuts Belize from Schedule
During the lengthy press conference that concluded around five-thirty, Prime Minister Dean Barrow received an update from American Airlines regarding the government’s decision not to open the P.G.I.A. on August [...]

What Measures to Be Put in Place?
So schools and the P.G.I.A. will not reopen as planned due to the COVID-19 crisis. But what measures are being put in place for containment. The Prime Minister says that [...]

Cracking Down on Public Officials Facilitation Illegal Activities Along te Border
During his press conference today, Prime Minister Dean Barrow scolded Belizeans saying that their behaviour is a direct consequence of the rise in cases. Barrow told the nation that the [...]

Teenager Critical Following a Boating Accident
A teenager is in a critical condition following a boating accident sometime this afternoon. Fifteen year-old student Kyle Carias of Caye Caulker suffered a large cut to the forehead and [...]

Commissioner Williams Advises Police Officer Not to Travel to Northern Districts
A memo has been sent to members of the Belize Police Department advising officers that they are not to travel to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. The directive came into effect [...]

2 Police Officers Infected with COVID-19
Two police officers have tested positive for COVID-19. These police officers reportedly came in contact with a female officer who tested positive for the deadly virus earlier in the week. [...]

B.N.T.U. Preempts M.O.E.; Advises Teachers, Students Not to Attend Classes
Before the Minister of Education announced the delay of school reopening, the B.N.T.U. issued a press release to discourage teachers and students from returning to school on Monday. The B.N.T.U. [...]

B.N.T.U. President Weighs in on Homeschooling
Keeping it on education, we also asked President Elena Smith about homeschooling during this pandemic. The Ministry of Education has laid out the plans for homeschooling where parents need to [...]

ComPol Says Mexicans Did Not Participate in Fishing Tournament
Since the weekend, speculation has been rampant that a recent fishing tournament at Grand Caribe Resort at San Pedro contributed to the climb in the cases of COVID-19.  That tournament [...]

AG Warns that Increasing COVID-19 Cases Could Mean Restrictive Measures
The Prime Minister says that consultations will be held on which measures can be taken and where to contain the virus. The Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte spoke with the press [...]

AG Calls on the Public to Stop the Spread of COVID-19
In his comments to the press, the Attorney General begged the Belizean public to refrain from risky activities such as illegally crossing the border and buying contraband because these can [...]

S.O.E. Extension Goes Before the Senate
The House on Monday approved a motion to extend the State of Emergency on the Southside for two more months. That extension went before the senate today where it was [...]

P.U.P. Senators on S.O.E. Extension
At the House, Pickstock area representative Wilfred Elrington fiercely opposed the extension calling out his own government for not doing enough to help the marginalized youths.  The discussions of poverty [...]

The Reporter

Two more Corozal police officers confirmed with COVID-19; 12 quarantined
Two colleagues of the first police officer from Corozal District have tested positive for COVID-19 […]

B2B Tuesday
The Embassy of Mexico in Belize has announced the launch of a virtual initiative for commercial promotion – B2B Tuesday. This project seeks to foster bilateral economic cooperation by encouraging commercial partnerships between Belizean and Mexican businesses. The B2B Tuesday promotion initiative will use the Embassy’s social media platforms to announce Mexican companies interested in connecting with Belizean businesses and expanding into the Belizean market through Business to Business (B2B) commerce.

Fort Cairns Market Plaza to Remain Closed
The Orange Walk Town Council, on the advice of the Ministry of Health (MOH), has taken the decision to continue with the closure of the Fort Cairns Market Plaza to allow for health officials to carry out a comprehensive mapping exercise. The Reporter was told that the decision was taken after it was learned that both the wife and son of the farmer diagnosed with the virus, all vendors, had tested positive for COVID-19. Sources say that over the weekend the wife was conducting business at the market while already exhibiting symptoms of the virus. What is worrisome to health officials is that the woman was reportedly in close contact with at least two other vendors, as well as shoppers at the market.

LOVE FM

TEENAGER DIES IN BOAT ACCIDENT
Reports reaching our newsroom are that the teenager involved in the boat accident in Caye Caulker earlier this evening has passed away. 15-year-old Kyle Carias was at the back of the boat when he fell overboard and was injured in the head by the propellers.

Breaking Belize News

Murder in Mile 8 Community on the George Price Highway
The victim has been identified as Shakeem Humes, a resident of the community who has known connections with […]

14 new cases of COVID-19 detected today; total cases now at 86
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that 14 new cases of COVID-19 was detected in […]

Three Immigration officers busted with 8 lbs of marijuana
Today, 3 Immigration officers were busted with weed inside of a Government issued vehicle. Authorities […]

Scotiabank San Pedro stays closed after employee tests positive for COVID-19
The San Pedro Town branch of Scotiabank will remain closed until Sunday, August 8, the […]

Chuc’s Service Station robbed at gunpoint
Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred yesterday at Chuc’s Service Station located on […]

BEL: “We take all necessary precaution” re COVID-19
Belize Electricity Limited offered a brief statement this evening following up on an internal communication which […]

At least 15 new cases of COVID-19 identified today
In today’s press conference, the Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow, reported that there are […]

Man escapes from San Ignacio quarantine center
Late this evening, a man reportedly escaped from the Victor Galvez quarantine center in San Ignacio. […]

BEL issues warning after employee reportedly shows COVID-19 like symptoms
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) says it is investigating a report by an employee who is […]

Galindo brothers charged for conspiracy to commit murder
Police have arrested and charged Santa Elena residents Minor Joel Galindo, 31, and David Galindo 34, […]

Commissioner of Police delivers personal protective equipment to security forces combating border jumping
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams has returned to the “Contraband Corridor” in the northern districts […]

Slavery and the Oligarchical System – Belize
By Bill Undo: On Monday, June 22nd, it was announced that the holding company that owns the Belize Bank Ltd. was in the process of buying out the assets and liabilities of Scotia Bank (Belize) Ltd. Then one […]

PM Barrow says Ministry of Education prepared to delay reopening of schools
Less than a week from school reopening and ten days from the airport doing the […]

The Barrow Administration has had ample time to conduct redistricting exercise, says PEACE Movement
The Belize PEACE Movement has accused Prime Minister and substantive Minister of Elections and Boundaries, […]

Opposition Senator resounds call for government of Belize to speak out on Garifuna plight in Honduras
Following a request by five former foreign ministers that the Government of Belize send a […]

Prime Minister to host press conference to update nation on COVID-19 situation
The Government of Belize has informed that today at 3 p.m. the Prime Minister will […]

Senate meets today, State of Emergency to be extended
There is a special sitting of the Senate taking place today, in which senators will […]

Moderna takes in millions for experimental COVID-19 vaccine ahead of final trials
Moderna Incorporated’s experimental COVID-19 vaccine is leading the lucrative race to be first in production, […]

Belize National Teachers Union launches survey
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) has launched an online survey for parents to fill […]

BNTU advises teachers and students to remain OUT of class
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) issued a statement today advising teachers and students to […]

Belize Electricity Limited replacing poles in Belmopan
The Belmopan City Council informs residents of Unity Boulevard and Trinity Boulevard that Belize Electricity […]

Ministry of Education launches homeschooling applications
Today, the Ministry of Education launched the home-schooling applications for parents wishing to home school […]

Tropic Air resumes Placencia flights
Tropic Air announced today that it is resuming flights to the Placencia peninsula on Monday, […]

Belize monitors 39 active cases of COVID-19
Health authorities are monitoring 39 active cases of COVID-19. Of the 39 active cases, 19 […]

PUP standard bearer for Pickstock says not time to reopen the airport
PUP standard bearer for Pickstock, Anthony Mahler issued a statement expressing concerns with the reopening […]

Blogs

Tropic Air resumes Placencia flights
Tropic Air will resume flights to the Placencia peninsula on Monday, August 10. Flights will operate three times weekly via the Riversdale Airstrip at the northern end of the peninsula. This is due to the ongoing construction at the airstrip in town.

Southwest Implementing Changes to Aircraft Cleaning
As the company returns to a standard turnaround time, cleaning procedures have been narrowed down to areas with greater risk of contamination. Those high touched areas include lavatories and tray tables. A memo sent out to flight attendants of the airlines shared with USA today sheds light on Southwest’s new cleaning procedures. As of August 1st, lavatories and tray tables will be disinfected before each take off between each flight under the new policy. However, the armrests and seat belts will not be wiped down until the planes nightly cleaning session.

Belize & CoVid-19: Updates Including International Airport Opening CANCELLED
Start with Dr. Manzanero, the testing and the science – yesterday 148 samples were processed/tested countrywide – a new record. 15 new cases were diagnosed yesterday, August 4th, 7 in Orange Walk, 7 in Corozal and 1 in San Pedro (symptomatic but not related to case 57 over the weekend. Believed to be linked to a church gathering) Extensive contract tracing – includes family reunions, large parties – making things more complicated. Preliminary results = 14 new cases in San Pedro today. So there would be 16 active cases in San Pedro in all. Tracing can go back as far as the beginning of July – including weddings, fishing tournament and other “Super Spreader Events”

Belize Postpones the Reopening of its International Airport
The Government of Belize has postponed the planned reopening of the international airport from August 15 to a later date, due to a local spike of COVID-19 cases in country. A press conference held today on August 05, 2020 announced that due to a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in three districts, there will be a delay in the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). Prime Minister Rt. Dean Barrow said that although the airport will not reopen, the weekly repatriation flights for Belizean nationals abroad will continue, including the 14-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival.

Land Laws in Belize – Everything You Need to Know
Land is a great way to build equity, and if you are thinking of owning a piece in Belize, you are heading in the right direction. Now, as much as it is a viable way to build wealth, you must apply due diligence to avoid losing a huge chunk of your savings. Do some research before making your final decision and, if possible, ask your questions to the sales team at Salt Life Belize because they know better. Belize has numerous options for lifestyle. Do you want a waterfront life, jungle, or island living? Do you want to buy land specifically for farming? The choice is all yours.

What Are The Negatives About Living In Belize?
Belize is a stunningly beautiful country with a laid-back, affordable lifestyle and the opportunity to indulge in nature. For many people, it’s an ideal retirement community. Still, it is not for everyone. Here are some reasons you may want to retire somewhere else. If theater, museums, fine restaurants and live performances are your hobbies, you probably won’t enjoy Belize. If you like to shop for trendy fashions, you definitely won’t enjoy it. There are no concert arenas, orchestras or theater groups in Belize. You won’t find cities with well-developed downtown shopping areas. Most of the shopping you’ll do here is for necessities like clothes and food, and most of your clothes will consist of shorts and flip-flops.

Why Do Americans Enjoy Living In Belize?
The number of Americans moving to Belize is steadily increasing. The country has become a popular choice for those looking to purchase property overseas or enjoy a quiet, peaceful retired life. Here are the top reasons why Americans are drawn to this Caribbean country. 1. ENGLISH IS WIDELY SPOKEN. One of the biggest adjustments when moving overseas is learning a new language. Being a former British colony, English is widely spoken in Belize. You can go about your day, ask directions, and converse with the locals in English. Even better, all official documents, street signs, and menus are in English. You don’t need a translator or a language app on your phone. This allows you to hit the ground running.

International Sources

A coral sex milestone: Lab-grown and replanted corals to spawn in the Florida Keys
Not long after the August full moon, Florida’s reefs are the scene of an annual show of sexual reproduction called the coral spawn, with coral colonies releasing masses of tiny white, pink and orange spheres into the ocean. This year, for the first time, corals raised by scientists in a lab and transplanted to the natural reefs are primed to join the spawn — a promising milestone for ongoing efforts to restore the ravaged reef systems off South Florida. “This is really amazing because we had no idea what to expect when we planted these corals five years ago,” said Hanna Koch, Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reproduction scientist, which is using a technique called microfragmentation-fusion to raise the corals on land and plant them on local reefs.

The S911 Enforcer
Saw on Channel 7 News a presentation of the geo-fence bracelet they will be using for returning citizens and residents - the S911 Enforcer. The S911 Enforcer is a wearable device used for monitoring the safety and well-being of your lone workers. It's compact and comfortable, and has the most advanced technology available in a wearable device.

Videos

August 5, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

Police Officers restricted from traveling to and from Ambergris Caye
To safeguard members of the Belize Police Department (BPD) following a spike in cases of COVID-19 countrywide, with a possible increase on Ambergris Caye the Department issued a memo on Tuesday, August 4th stating that no police officers will be allowed to leave or visit the caye. The memo explains that if officers assigned to the island are on day off or leave, they will be allowed to return to work. This restriction in movement to and from Ambergris Caye is with immediate effect and will remain in place for the next 14 days.

San Pedro Town residents await results of COVID-19 mapping tests; will there be another lockdown?
Several island residents have been summoned to the San Pedro Care Center (Flu clinic) in the Mar de Tumbo area to be swabbed and then tested for COVID-19, while an extensive mapping continues to take place on the island following positive case #57 on Sunday, August 2nd. The Ministry of Health offered a virtual press conference on Tuesday, August 4th, indicating that around 50 samples from San Pedro will be processed and results are expected to be available Wednesday, August 5th.

U.S. Retiree robbed and injured during a home invasion on the island
Investigations continue into an aggravated burglary that reportedly occurred on Saturday, August 1st, in the San Pablo area of San Pedro Town. Police visited the residence of U.S. National, retired 75-year-old John Wallace, who was observed with a bloody face and body. He told police he was held up by an armed Hispanic male person who stole over $4,000 BZ that he had in his house. According to the victim’s report, around 2:30 PM on Saturday, while sitting on a chair inside his house in San Pablo, with his front door open, a male person of Hispanic descent showed up with what appeared to be a 9mm pistol.

Conquerors F.C. are Copa San Pedro’s 2020 Closing Season Champions!
It was an easy win for Conquerors F.C. on Saturday, August 1st, when they crushed San Mateo F.C. 7-1 and took home the Copa San Pedro 2020 Closing Season Football Tournament championship. The anticipated final match of the season took place at the Ambergris Stadium. Conquerors dominated the game from the beginning, giving San Mateo no opportunity with the ball. With full control, Conquerors began scoring one goal after the other. By the time the first half ended, Conquerors were ahead by five goals to nothing.

Ambergris Today

Fifty Samples From San Pedro Being Tested For COVID-19
During the mapping process for COVID-19 patient #57 identified in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, on Sunday, August 2, sixty (60) individuals were identified of having contact with the 31-year-old female. Out of those, 50 individuals were swabbed and samples have been taken for testing. Results of those samples are expected to be released tomorrow midday, Wednesday.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Wednesday, August 5th Meal Pick ups: Location: Barrier Reef Sports Bar & Grill. Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am - 12:30pm.

Auxiliary Flu Clinic by Mar de Tumbo reopens in San Pedro
If you are feeling unwell with flu-like or respiratory illness symptoms (cough, fever, body aches, loss of smell/taste, etc.) or have had contact with someone with COVID-19, call 672-0911 any time. Effective immediately, The San Pedro Care Center and flu clinic, located in the Mar de Tumbo area, as show on the map below, is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm to serve you if you have flu-like or respiratory illness symptoms.

The Heritage Education Network Belize is having a fundraiser
For a limited time while supplies last, every donation of $15 or more to HENB will receive a copy of "To the Mountain!", a trilingual, fictional children's story based on actual archaeological research in Belize. If you donate, remember to include your address in the "Notes" so we can mail it to you! All proceeds will go towards education, capacity-building, and skill-building for individuals and small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Thank you for your consideration.

Madisco Product Show Photos

The University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union sent out a release indicating that they continue to engage the University of Belize's administration in mitigation measures. The University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union (UBFSU) continues to engage the University of Belize's Administration as it pertains to mitigation measures proposed by the UB Administration, brought upon us as an effect of the current global pandemic. The University has endorsed and recognized UBFSU as the sole bargaining agent for its members. As such UBFSU will continue to negotiate with the Board of Trustees and University of Belize Management team as the certified union UBFSU for its bargaining units.

Ministry of Health Identify 15 COVID-19 Cases
Fifteen (15) new COVID-19 cases were identified today as a result of tracking case contacts identified over the weekend. These cases are part of a record number of 148 samples processed in one day. New cases are as follows. Seven (7) cases have been identified in Corozal. Seven (7) cases have been detected in Orange Walk. San Pedro now has a (1) new case.

Minister of National Security Visits Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve
Minister of National Security Hon. Michael Peyrefitte, accompanied by the Belize Coast Guard, visited an extensive coral reef complex known as the Corona Reef located south of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve just within our maritime border, which is now a protected area. The initiative to reserve this area was put forward by the Belize Coast Guard and taken to Cabinet for approval by the Minister of National Security.

Motorcycles Donated to Corozal
Today Mayor Rigo Vellos Deputy Mayor Hilberto Clarke and Councillors presented to our municipality two equipped 2020 Kawasaki Motorcycles provided through the Road Safety Initiative to all municipalities. These are to be utilized by CTC’s Municipal Transport Authority. Four transport officers also underwent training, learning new traffic rules and learning to disassemble and reassemble the motorbikes for proper maintenance. This addition to our Transport Authority is an investment in assets and human capacity.

Aspiring Youth Empowerment Program
HEY YOUTH! Are you interested in being a part of a youth webinar series hosted by CARICOM? The Aspiring Youth Empowerment Program begins August 27, 2020 and applications are now open! They’ll remain open until the 12 August 2020 so click the link and sign up now!

BOWEN & BOWEN IS HIRING. Apply Now!

Working with the OK Tourism Market Webinar
There's still time to register! Want to learn more about the UK Market as it relates to tourism for Belize? The BTB is hosting a free one-hour session with Carol Hay, CEO of McKenzie Gayle Limited, to provide stakeholders with a greater understanding of UK consumers’ and their needs. Click here to register: https://bit.ly/3ftV9ls

Phase Two Relief Fund Form
Here's the Phase Two Relief Fund Signup Form. Click the link to sign up.

Channel 7

San Pedro’s COVID Concerns: 60 Samples Taken
San Pedro is again ground zero for COVID 19 in Belize - and tonight, health authorities and anxious townspeople are awaiting the test results from 60 samples collected in a first round of contact tracing. That's after a single positive test from a socially active woman, an expatriate with a prominent name, who was confirmed as positive for COVID 19 on Sunday. She is case 57, and her contacts range throughout the island, and could even extend to Placencia. More interestingly, she could have contracted it from her husband, who is a major developer on the island. At a press conference today - the first since March - the Directors of Health Services and the Epidemiology unit told us what is known about case 57, her family and her contacts:

Lining Up to Leave The Island
So, the virus may have appeared on the island from earlier in the month - and it may have come across from Orange Walk. And reports say that as more than 6 persons on the island are being watched closely for possible COVID symptoms. Of course, we won't know if there are any more positives until test results are released tomorrow, but the swirl of sickness and speculation has shaken San Pedro. We are told that everyone is wearing a mask, and as many as 40 businesses shut down and sanitised today - including the Scotiabank branch. A release from SCOTIA says the branch has temporarily closed to facilitate a deep cleaning and sanitisation process. The release adds, that the measures were taken after a number of staff members started exhibiting flu - like symptoms. They are now being treated and evaluated.

OW Case Linked to Contraband
"Where you gonna run to?" - that's how Dr. Manzanero put it - and for sure right now running to Orange Walk or Corozal is not a good move. As we told you last night, the case in Orange Walk is a Santa Marta village farmer, whose wife and family works in the Orange Walk Town market. And while this was an unsourced case at first, the COVID link may prove to be through Mexican contraband, which the infected man purchased from his neighbor.

Possible Exposure At NRH
And that 25 people could include health workers at the Northern Regional Hospital. That's because the farmer who tested positive was reportedly in the general ward for two days as a regular patient before he tested positive for COVID. And, while healthcare workers should - as Manzanero always says - treat everyone as if they have COVID - apparently this wasn't done in this case. The highest standards in personal protection were not adhered to, according to our information.

That Case In Corozal
And that brings us to the other case of concern - the one of a woman police constable in Corozal. Health authorities have not found out where the Ranchito resident contracted the virus - but they do know that she had gone to San Pedro on work duties in the middle of last month. Dr. Russell Manzanero, Epidemiologist, Ministry of Health:"In the case of Corozal, this is being presented in a law enforcement officer. She is twenty-eight years old, resides in Ranchito. When we look at the dates and symptoms being presented, it is quite classic about what we expect - the shortness of breath, fever, joint pain and loss of appetite.

Port On the Precipice Of...?
Tonight, negotiations between the Port of Belize and its staff have been stalled. It's a precarious situation that could mean another complete shutdown because the staff returned to work on Friday, July 31, 2020. Their Rep Will Lambey, during the workers march on Monday, told us that no negotiations by Wednesday would mean a collective decision on the staff's next move. Well, talks were supposed to start today, but the Port put it off until next week. The union's agenda includes six points including: Reinstatement of wrongfully terminated members by Wednesday August 5th 2020.

Getting Rural Newborns Registered
This morning, The Vital Statistics Unit officially launched its new birth registration campaign. They are trying to urge Belizean parents to register their newborns so that the Government can ensure that every child gets access to education, healthcare, and any form of government social support.Whenever children are not registered at birth, they are at risk of becoming stateless in their adult lives, since there is no official record to track their citizenship. The experts say that in Belize, 96% of all children from ages of zero to 5 years-old are routinely registered by their parents. But, it's that 4%, who are from families living in rural communities, that fall through the cracks.

Peyrefitte On Southern Seas
Today, the National Security Minister Michael Peyrefitte, accompanied by the Belize Coast Guard, made an official visit to the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve. He was there to inspect an extensive coral reef complex, known as the Corona Reef, which is located in Belize's maritime borders, south of Sapodilla. This coral reef complex is now a protected area.A government press release says that the initiative to turn this area into a reserve was put forward by the Belize Coast Guard, and it was taken to Cabinet for approval by Peyrefitte as their Minister. On July 30th, Omar Figueroa, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, the Environment, and Sustainable Development, signed the statutory instrument that enshrines the protected status of this ecologically important marine system.

More Returning Belizeans Than Tourists Booked On First Flights
As we told you in our top segment, fear of COVID spread are blanketing Belize tonight - but, it's still full speed ahead to the airport opening on August 15th. But, while everyone is worrying about those American tourists coming out of Houston and Miami, the real concern will be the Belizeans returning. Manzanero said the flight manifests will be filled with familiar names:

The Practicalities of PCR Testing
Belizeans arriving will now be required to quarantine at a hotel for one night while that PCR test is being processed. Originally, they were to wait some hours at the airport while this was done. But, it turns out, that solution is not practical, Manzanero explained why, and what's the change: "In terms of what's happening at the airport, we were particularly looking at doing the Gene Expert because that gives you four tests every 30 minutes..."

Belize Travel App Not Ready Yet
Belizeans who are returning on August 15th and after, still have to fill out the form for the controlled repatriation process before they arrive, and also self quarantine at home after they reach. They are also supposed to download and follow the steps on the Belize Health App - which is mandator for all persons arriving. But, the app won't be ready for rollout at that time. Dr. Russell Manzanero told us more: "The app will be ready, but I'm understanding that the approval of the apps is another process, so that there would be the process and the time to take to actually be ready for use would be in a couple weeks..."

Dr Manza Not Losing Sleep About The Airport
So with the app not ready, and the tracking bracelets not really ready, some folks would just say run for cover and keep the airport closed. But today when we asked Dr Marvin Manzanero squarely, he said that he loses much less sleep about the regulated process at the airport than he does about border jumping in the hinterlands: "If you have a plane load of people coming in, you have 100 Belizeans arriving on Saturday August 15th, the concern you will understand and appreciate are the Belizeans coming back to their families and their communities, so from the health standpoint those are the ones we have to be concerned about and I kept saying that and I know that people are really jelling with the message, I think they are buying into the message, because they want to seem to blame tourists for coming in..."

Could Community Spread Close Schools?
Belize's schools are in a frenzy this week preparing to re-open and finally return to educating children in a strict, caution filled, and resource-demanding environment. And that's just the school's outside of the districts that, over the weekend, had spikes in suspected cases of COVID-19.

What Should Schools Do with A Sick Kid?
But what should teachers and principals do when dealing with students who are exhibiting flu-like symptoms? Babb and her deputy Cecelia Ramirez Smith outlined these guidelines today.

Home School’s Ground Rules
And while those instructions might offer some small comfort to teachers it's a scenario that many parents don't even want to contemplate. That's because one confirmed case in a primary school could have far-reaching consequences for multiple families and entire communities.

Beating The Virus, Not The Heat
The kids who do return to school can add sweltering temperatures to their educational challenges. That's because Ministry guidelines have banned the use of standing fans in classrooms as an aerosolization risk.

Dr Manza Says Opening Schools In January Will Likely Be Worse
And what does the Director of Health Services have to say about opening schools next week? He says there's no time like the present because the future is likely to bring more COVID cases: "We have to understand that these are new norms because I hear people just saying well don't open the school until January..."

Justice League of Former Foreign Ministers?
When five former foreign ministers came out in January of 2019 saying yes to the ICJ, we called them the Fantastic Five. Well, now they're more like a justice league, but the old group - plus Eamon Courtenay who's been subbed in for Dean Barrow - is back with a letter to the Prime Minister. Assad Shoman, Said Musa, Lisa Shoman, Eamon Courtney, and Godfrey Smith, have joined other Belizeans in denouncing the kidnapping of 5 prominent members of the Garifuna Community in Honduras, which occurred about 3 and a half weeks ago.

Belize Zoo Raised Enough Funds
On Friday, we told you about the telethon that the Belize Zoo had planned as a fundraising event. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the trickle of visitor traffic, the Zoo is suffering from a financial crisis. The telethon was a sort of emergency measure to get funding to keep feeding the animals that call the zoo home.The Zoo's administration was hoping to raise $25,000 from that telethon on Saturday afternoon, and they are reporting tonight that the generosity of Belizeans allowed them to exceed that target.

Slaughter of the Peccaries
And while that is good news for wildlife, there's some troubling news coming out of the south. There was an unexplained pecarry kill in the area of Maya Center village. the cause of death for the very many dead peccaries is unknown, but the Ministry of Environment has been investigating since yesterday and should have answers soon.

Agg. Assualt on San Pedro
And in a weekend crime story that we didn't have space for on the news last night…San Pedro police are currently investigating a home invasion that occurred in the San Pablo area of the island. An armed thief broke into the home of a 75-year-old American retiree, assaulted him, and robbed him several thousand dollar cash, which was being stored in a safe.At around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Johan Wallace, a retired US soldier, was sitting inside his home with his front door opened when a masked gunman barged in.

A Robbery Out West
So while the island cops continue to search for those suspects, investigators from the Cayo District are trying to track down 2 known robbers who have been operating in the twin towns. It is believed that they struck again on Friday night at 28 Supermarket, on the Bullet Tree Road.

Salvadorean Criminals Caught in Belize
Two Salvadoran criminals are back home tonight after Belizean Interpol handed them back to their Salvadorean counterparts. They are 34-year-old Simon Balthazar Lopez Vales and 26-year-old Franklin Lopez Mendoza both of whom have served prison time in Belize for immigration-related offenses. Vales has been wanted in El Salvador for Aggravated Extortion whilst Mendoza was wanted for Aggravated Homicide.

BPM to Barrow
Last week at his press conference, the Prime Minister suggested that the PUP - through attorney Andrew Marshalleck was somehow trying to delay the elections by taking a re-districting lawsuit to the Supreme eCourt. Now, the PUP have no hand in the suit, but out is led by the Belize ePeace movement and now, Lord Ashcroft. Yesterday in the House, John Briceno said his party has no part in it:

Channel 5

Persons Leaving San Pedro Amid Fear of Lockdown of Island
The Ministry of Health confirmed today that there is no community spread of the novel coronavirus. It is awaiting results of more than a hundred persons tested for the virus, [...]

The Worrying Case of San Pedro’s COVID-19 Patient
Up to news time, Belize has recorded a total of fifty-seven COVID-19 cases. Of those cases, twenty-four are active.  As you know, nine cases were confirmed over the weekend, with [...]

Is There Community Spread of COVID-19 on La Isla Bonita?
So, health officials say there is widespread concern. But is there a case of community spread on that island?  The Ministry of Health is not ready to call it that [...]

COVID-19 Patients in Corozal
The Ministry of Health also spoke on the cases in Corozal. The three latest cases in the north are from two persons of one family, who entered the country through [...]

Status of the Latest COVID-19 Patients in O.W.
Moving from Corozal to Orange Walk, two males from that district were among those who tested positive over the weekend. One is a person who entered the country illegally; the [...]

Police Officers Not Allowed to Travel to San Pedro
Back to San Pedro….there is no community spread of the virus, but a number of persons are being tested.  As you heard, a female police officer from Corozal is hospitalized [...]

Scotia Bank Closes Temporarily on San Pedro; Staff Exhibiting Flu-Like Symptoms
Today, Scotia Bank issued a notice to say that it has temporarily closed its branch in San Pedro.  The release says that the reason for the closure is to conduct [...]

130 COVID-19 Samples Being Processed
The Ministry of Health is on a massive contact tracing exercise across the country, following the troubling cases where persons are not able to determine where they were exposed and [...]

M.O.E. on Schools’ Preparedness
Turning to the Ministry of Education and the state of schools, the ministry says that schools are in high gear preparation mode for the re-opening of schools on August tenth. [...]

Homeschooling is an Option; Parents Must Meet Requirements!
As the COVID-19 cases continue to grow – the concern among many are that schools are not ready and they fear sending their children to school to be exposed to [...]

Family of Keona Ara Fears that They Won’t Get Justice for Her Murder
The family of murder victim Keona Ara is crying out for justice tonight. The eighteen-year-old was killed in a most savage way and her body set on fire and later [...]

No COVID-19 Assistance Programmes for Blackman Eddy Village?
Today, while a News Five crew was in Blackman Eddy Village, located on the George Price Highway near the cut-off to the Iguana Creek Bridge, they caught up with the [...]

Road Works on George Price Highway Affecting Blackman Eddy Village
Road works continue on the George Price Highway in the west where at the cut off to the Iguana Creek Bridge a roundabout is being built. While the much needed [...]

Stevedore Vex with Christian Workers Union
The C.W.U. has just signed a C.B.A., but not all is well in the union.  Two outspoken stevedores came forward today to highlight issues they have been having with the [...]

Stevedore Disappointed with President Evan “Mose” Hyde
According to Fuller, several discussions were had with C.W.U. President Evan “Mose” Hyde regarding his concerns. Fuller says that he had hopes that Hyde would address his concerns, but that [...]

Belizeans Want to Travel; Will They Get a Test?
The Director of Health Services touched on a wide range of issues today. Now, as the P.G.I.A. gets ready for reopening on August fifteenth, the Ministry of Health says that [...]

M.O.H.’s Preparation Continues…
The Ministry of Health says that they have acquired a stock of geo-bracelets that, in the coming days, will be tested out.   When it comes to the health app, its [...]

PM Says If Tourist Won’t Follow Law, then ‘Don’t Come’
As for the tourists who will be coming into the country on August fifteen and thereafter, Prime Minister Dean Barrow says they will have to follow the laws that have [...]

John Briceño and Patrick Faber Spar in the House
On the matter of the Philip Goldson International Airport, the debate got heated on Monday between Leader of the Opposition John Briceño and leader elect of the U.D.P., Patrick Faber. [...]

Opposition Leader Corrects Prime Minister
The Supreme Court last month ruled in favour of Lord Michael Ashcroft to provide expert input in the case of redistricting.  He is an interested party in the case by the [...]

Ensuring Birth Registration for the Prevention of Statelessness
Four percent of the population in Belize is not registered at birth. An initiative to change that was launched today. The Belize Vital Statistics Unit, in partnership with the UN [...]

Amandala

Southside State of Emergency extended for 2 months
In the House of Representatives in Belmopan today, the government declared that the State of Emergency (SOE) that is currently in place on the Southside of Belize City, and which is slated to expire on Thursday, August 6, 2020, will be extended for a further two months. “We are satisfied that a period of public emergency persists in the Southside, and the House hereby extends the period of public emergency for a further period of 2 months. The motion has the recommendation of the Cabinet,” said Prime Minister Barrow. And with those words, the State of Emergency for the City’s Southside had a new expiration date, on October 6, 2020, except if the government chooses to end it sooner.

Impasse between Port and stevedores ends
After weeks of an arduous process involving proposals and counter-proposals, as well as industrial action, the stevedores of the Christian Workers Union and the Port of Belize Limited have finally signed a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). On Sunday, August 2, 2020, representatives of the two entities, along with the Labour Department, convened at Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza to sign their first CBA in sixteen years, which took effect immediately and is valid for the next three years. This agreement was arrived at after a series of extensive meetings that began on Thursday, July 30. The negotiations were headed on the stevedores’ behalf by the president of the CWU, Evan “Mose” Hyde, along with a number of stevedores and attorney Anthony Sylvestre.

“We are preparing for the worst”
Prime Minister Dean Barrow, in the House of Representatives this afternoon, said about the one positive COVID-19 case on Ambergris Caye, that, “We are preparing for the worst.” He said that one institution on the island has called to indicate that 4 persons are showing symptoms classical of COVID-19, like loss of their sense of taste and smell. They are to be tested today. The PM added that the contact tracing exercise for patient #57 has yielded some 40 samples so far. He explained that the woman is in an occupation where she has to deal with a host of people, and he therefore expects that the Ministry of Health’s mapping exercise will likely produce several additional positive cases.

Bredda O buried with love and respect
Funeral services were held for Orin “Bredda O” Velasquez, 38, who was fatally shot during a robbery of his popular pizza store in Ladyville on Monday, July 27, 2020. Velasquez was closing his pizza shop along with his son, 14, at about 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 27, when two thieves rushed into the pizza shop to rob him. There was a struggle with them and in the process, Velasquez’s son was able to run out of the shop. During the struggle, however, the thieves fatally shot Velasquez in the chest. They then stole the day’s sales, which was about $200, from the pizza shop’s cash drawer, and the two thieves then ran out of the store.

COVID-19 cases spike over the weekend
As of Friday, July 31, the Office of the Director of Health Services had reported a total of 48 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Belize, with 19 of them being active. The following day, it was reported that three of those patients (all of whom were from the Orange Walk District, which has had the most active cases in the past three weeks) had recovered. In a matter of hours, however, Belize recorded its highest number of additional COVID-19 cases in any single day, as eight cases were detected in a subsequent batch of tests, which brought the total number of confirmed cases in Belize to 56, with 24 of those cases being active.

Belize surrounded by COVID-19 hotspots
Latina America has been declared the new epicenter of COVID-19 by the World Health Organization. To date, cases have been steadily increasing across the region, with Brazil and Mexico seeing the highest number of deaths. A total of 4.7 million cases of the virus have been recorded across Latin America, and according to the European Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, over 190,000 persons in the region have died. Zoning in closer to home, the virus has spread like wildfire in Mexico, with over 439,000 confirmed cases and over 47,500 deaths recorded.

PM Barrow presents Economic Recovery Strategy
On Friday, July 31, members of the media attended a press conference at the Belize Biltmore Plaza, at which Prime Minister Dean Barrow; Minister of State in Investment, Trade and Commerce, Tracy Panton; and Minster of Food and Agriculture and Immigration, Godwin Hulse, discussed the launch of the Economic Recovery Strategy for Belize. The plan is a collective effort on a national scale to safeguard livelihoods, provide stimulus for business continuity, support existing and new enterprises for job retention and job creation, and strengthen and diversify our local economy in spite of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

IOM Belize organizes flight for stranded migrants
On July 30, the International Organization of Migration (IOM) in Belize organized its second humanitarian chartered flight under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program. Fifteen stranded Honduran nationals were taken back home to Honduras, and eighteen Belizeans who were stuck in Honduras were repatriated back to Belize. The IOM staff in Belize has been providing humanitarian assistance to vulnerable groups in Honduras and Belize in the form of medical assistance, lodging, food, and protective gear to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.

Shaniqua Peters, 21, arraigned for setting fire on Wagner’s Lane
An investigation into a fire that completely destroyed a house on Wagner’s Lane that was occupied by 4 persons, and gutted a nearby house occupied by 5 persons, led police to a resident of West Street, Belize City — Shaniqua Peters, 21. Peters was charged with 2 counts of arson and was arraigned at the Belize City Magistrate’s Court yesterday by Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford. The charge was read to her, but no plea was taken from her because the charge is an indictable offense and must be tried at the Supreme Court after the magistrate has established that there is a case against her.

Editorial: Recovery Plan: there’s hope — maybe
The Prime Minister, Hon. Dean Barrow, called a press conference on Friday to outline an economic recovery plan for Belize, and throughout the session he was upbeat, a far cry from the man who, not so long ago, at a virtual press conference, agonized for the next government and the future of the people of his beloved Belize. There was a spring in the Prime Minister’s step on Friday, and indeed it takes bravery to go down to debtor’s prison with fight in our hearts and a joyous song on our lips, than to fade away in a whimper. Let the young people of Belize know that their ancestors did not give up when the country faced a pandemic and the worst of economic times.

Belmopan turns 50!
It was early in the morning on Tuesday, October 31, 1961, that Belize City lost a battle to Mother Nature as the tropical cyclone called Hurricane Hattie devastated the old capital. Over three hundred people lost their lives. The damage to property was in the millions. “Out of this disaster arose the opportunity to build a new capital city. A committee was assigned to choose a site. There were three proposals: (1) a site at about mile 30 to 33 on the Western Highway (2) at the junction of the Western and Hummingbird Highways and (3) somewhere in the Mountain Pine Ridge. Proposal 2, the present site of Belmopan was accepted. With the cooperation of London, plans and financial arrangements were completed in 1967; work began on land donated by the Melhado family.” (Price, G 1995)

600 UB students approved for graduation
The Board of Trustees of the University of Belize approved 600 students for graduation at a meeting on July 29, 2020. Like many other universities globally, UB had to respond to the COVID-19 restrictions by implementing online learning to ensure that students met their graduation requirements. The graduates come from the various campuses across the country, with 341 from Belmopan, 167 from Belize City, 53 from Punta Gorda, 26 from Central Farm and 12 from the outreach location in Corozal Town.

UEF celebrates Emancipation Jubilee Day 2020
August 1, 2020 marks 182 years since the abolition of the slave trade within the British Caribbean. In 1807 the United Kingdom parliament enacted the Slave Trade Act, which prohibited the slave trade in the British Empire, and in 1833 the British parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act to quell major slave revolts and abolitionist education campaigns. The UBAD Education Foundation (UEF) has been actively engaged to enlighten the Belizean masses on the importance of recognizing Emancipation Day in Belize.

The parable of the rich young man
And as Jesus was going forth on his journey, a certain young man running up fell upon his knees before him and asked him, “Good Master, what shall I do to gain eternal life?” But Jesus said to him, “Why dost thou call me good? No one is good but only God. Thou knowest the commandments. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness. Thou shalt not defraud. Honor thy father and mother.”

Pastor Lucas’ family satisfied with Mason’s sentence
After Justice Antoinette Moore issued a life sentence on Thursday to William “Danny” Mason, 54; Ashton Vanegas, 27; Ernest Castillo, 23; Keiron Fernandez, 32; and his brother, Terrence Fernandez, 28, for the decapitation/murder of Belmopan resident Pastor Llewellyn Lucas, 47, also known as Pastor Lue, the pastor’s family expressed to the media their satisfaction with the sentences that the convicted men received. The high-profile case was prosecuted by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Cheryl-Lyn Vidal.

From the Publisher
On Sunday morning, I watched the new Henry Young documentary, produced by Sherone Hope, in which Mr. Young is interviewed by Nuri Muhammad, basically about his very successful Bird’s Isle idea/project. There is much to write about where my experiences and interactions with Mr. Henry over the decades are concerned. (Note that he was also an undefeated United Democratic Party politician in the Port Loyola constituency between 1984 and 1998.)

Belize 1940s football star, Eric “Wappa” Gill passes
Last week Thursday, his grandnephew, Jason Guild, informed our sports desk of the passing in Chicago on June 15 of Belize City football star of the 1940s-50s era, Eric Gill, who had migrated to the USA in 1954. Younger generations of Belizeans will have no knowledge of Eric Gill, but a sizeable community of Belizeans in the Chicago area were apparently touched by his personality. Our sincere condolences to his family.

Those two judges are troo-troo advocates
On Friday at a press conference PM Barrow said, about NEAB’s cry against Ms. L. Shoman and Mr. W. James becoming judges, that the churches don’t understand. He suggested that the smart journalists should enlighten them about people in the law profession, how they approach their jobs. The truth is that Ms. Shoman and Mr. James are troo-troo advocates. We have their words in print. After the UNIBAM Section 53 case, Mr. James told a Caribbean radio station “it is widely recognized that the buggery laws on the books in regional jurisdictions, save for the Bahamas, constitute a breach of an individual’s fundamental rights.” That is a man who believed in his client’s case. After the UNIBAM victory Ms. Shoman said, first thing off her tongue, that we should move for gay marriage.

Belizean artist Katie Numi Usher’s new book questions norms
Katie Numi Usher, a Belizean artist who studied the arts in Mexico and who is an affiliate of the Image Factory of Belize, has launched her new book, entitled “Kathie Numi Usher”. In the book, which is a collection of photos and commentaries that span her career, she explores the correlation between art and history, and she challenges readers to question existing norms.

Flag days & statesmen
Dear Editor, There are things best left for the politicians to handle. True! Also true is that the best politicians engage the public in issues of governance that are likely to outlast their own tenures. We call those, “statesmen.” All Belizeans felt that we would, by now, have joined Canada, Mexico, Jamaica and most nations of the world in having a Flag Day. Looks like the gears got stuck in “park” after NICH announced that the search for a standardized flag and coat of arms was underway.

Clinton Canul to Brother Colin
Dear Editor, On Friday, July 24, 2020, I was honored in Brother Colin Hyde’s essay under the Title “Hart Like a Savior”. Thank you, brother Colin Hyde, for mentioning my name. Probably you may not know or have not noticed that there are those who find it very difficult to mention my name and others who are prohibited from doing so. Could it be because I am a socialist or I am not of the Baymen Clan team? I cannot be convinced of a story written from the colonial apologists’ viewpoint because made-up things bring along with them a lot of unanswered questions.

Ministry of Education pushing “2 mommy, 2 daddy” LGBT agenda in our schools
Dear Editor, For some time now I have been suspecting that the Ministry of Education was looking for a way to push the LGBT agenda in our schools through an HFLE manual. I know that it was their goal to teach our students that it is okay to choose their gender, even though they are born male or female. Before I left school, this kind of thing had not been happening. During the COVID-19 shutdown, MOE would broadcast educational activities live, and one of those was “The Story Time.”

Romel says no to opening the PGIA and the schools
Dear Editor, We are in the middle of a full-blown, planet-wide pandemic, with all the First World countries hurriedly looking for a vaccine for this virus. Here in little Belize, we have been blessed that it has not hit us hard, but it is still ravaging most countries around us like wildfire. There is as yet no treatment, cure or vaccine for this invisible monster. But yet, GOB wants to open the airport and the schools, both feasting grounds for the virus.

The Reporter

Letter over Systemic Abuse of Garifuna Commmunities in Honduras
Former Prime Minister, Said Musa, Eamon Coutenay, Lisa Shorman, Assad Shoman and Godfrey Smith have all penned a letter to Prime Minister Dean Barrow, requesting that the GOB send a letter to Honduras explaining the deep concern over the systematic abuse of Garifuna communities. International press reports confirm that armed men arrived in Triunfo de la Cruz, a Garifuna village on the Honduran coast, on 19 July, forced five Garifuna fishermen into vehicles at gunpoint and took them away.

Scotiabank Closes Temporarily due to employee flu symptoms
Scotia Bank has just announced a temporary closure of its San Pedro Branch to allow for deep cleaning and sanitization of the establishment due to an increase of staff members that are exhibiting flu-like symptoms. The bank is expected to reopen its doors on Thursday, August 6th. Below is a press release from the management.

BBB supporting teachers who don't want to return to work
The Belize Business Bureau has issued a release pledging support to teachers, should they decide not to return to school on Monday, "fearing for their safety and that of the children due to the hovering threat of the opening of the PGIA."

Breaking Belize News

Fort Cairns market to remain closed following 7 new COVID-19 cases in Orange Walk
Earlier today, the Orange Walk Town Council (OWTC) had announced that the Fort Cairns market […]

A record 15 new cases of COVID-19 identified in Belize
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that 15 new cases of COVID-19 have been identified today […]

“No officers allowed to visit or leave San Pedro,” says Police Department
Today, the Belize Police Department issued a memo to its officers restricting their movement to […]

Chabil Mar takes home two Tripadvisor awards
Chabil Mar’s place among the best resorts in the world was solidified this week when […]

130 samples being processed today as part of COVID-19 contact tracing exercise
Today, the Ministry of Health informed that 130 samples will be processed today. Director of […]

“Associate degree level required for home schooling,” says Ministry of Education
The Ministry of Education says that parents or an adult of their choosing are required […]

Schools will be able to reopen safely on August 10 says Ministry of Education
In today’s episode of Ask the Experts, Dr. Carol Babb, Chief Education Officer, said that […]

Punta Gorda to get synthetic five-a-side football turf
This past Friday, July 31, Football Federation of Belize (FFB) President Sergio Chuc and Punta […]

Dozens of peccaries found dead near Maya Center Village
Picture courtesy: PGTV Our colleagues at PGTV reported that on Sunday, residents noted dozens of […]

PUP leader suspends countrywide tour due to COVID-19
Leader of the People’s United Party (PUP), John Briceno had been engaged on a countrywide […]

Ministry of Health says it may need to revisit limit to the number of people in social gatherings
The Ministry of Health is gravely concerned about the public not adhering to the social […]

Dr. Marvin Manzanero; consider that the virus is circulating way before August 15
Today, Dr. Marvin Manzanero urged the public to consider that the virus may have been […]

Dr. Marvin Manzanero: Orange Walk COVID patient purchased contraband goods
Today, the Ministry of Health informed that 130 samples will be processed today. Director of […]

Kentucky man sentenced to nine years by London court for US $2.2 million oil concession scheme in Belize
Rodney Scott Phelps of Somerset Kentucky was sentenced to nine years in prison by a […]

Office of Director of Health Services: Flags raised after patient had no documented travel history
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero said that flags were raised after 3 patients […]

Ministry of Health: No concrete evidence of community spread
Today, the Ministry of Health hosted a press conference to update the nation on the […]

Scotia Bank on Ambergris Caye temporarily closed due to flu-like symptoms among staff
As of Monday, August 3, 2020, the Scotiabank branch on the island of Ambergris Caye is […]

UB Faculty and Staff Union continues to engage UB on mitigation measures
The University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union (UBFSU) issued a statement informing that it […]

Cordel Hyde-The People’s Champion in Lake I
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Ministry of Health to host press conference today to provide update on COVID-19 Cases in Belize
Today, the Ministry of Health will host a press conference to update the nation on […]Scotiabank Closes Temporarily due to employee flu symptoms

Blogs

Belize & CoVid-19: Changes in Last Few Days
I’ve been working on my monthly newsletter for July but things just keep changing…so I thought I’d send out a quick note to the World Wide Web. (You can sign up for mailing list – daily posts – and/or monthly newsletter below) Since the closing of borders and the airport at the end of March, Belize has been incredibly fortunate. Almost all cases (which numbered in the high 20s by the end of June – including two deaths), were traced and contained. But in the last month, cases have risen sharply – primarily through illegal border crossings over our northern border with Mexico. (Historically there has been a pretty robust trade in contraband…anything from cigarettes to avocados)

Manatee Calf in Belize rescued by Jamal Galves: Belizean ‘Manatee Man’
Mid-July, a male manatee calf was rescued off the coast of Belize by the country’s very own “Manatee Man” Jamal Galves, now a scientist with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute in Belize. With an estimated population of 1,000 individuals, Belize boasts the highest density of Antillean manatees in the world. For nearly 20 years, scientists at Sea to Shore Alliance have been studying Belize’s manatees, through a long-term monitoring campaign. While the team estimates that Belize’s manatee population increases each year, threats amplify as well. Belizean Jamal Galves, a Belize native, rescued the orphaned male manatee calf, estimated to be approximately 2-weeks old.

Work Hard, Play Harder in Belize
Amidst this COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have to stay away from the traditional workplace. With a computer and a stable Internet connection, you can get anything done virtually anywhere. Why not make that “anywhere” be in Belize? Work from home is nothing like working in a tropical paradise like Belize! Belize isn’t known for business travel, but it’s about to be. Belize offers beautiful scenery, a relaxed atmosphere, and a quiet environment perfect for working remotely.

International Sources

The Caribbean Dilemma
Many islands are open to American travelers. Going could mean bringing coronavirus to places ill prepared to deal with it. Not going could mean deepening economic woes. How do you choose? Last year, more than 31 million people visited the Caribbean, more than half of them from the United States. I was one of them. Together, we contributed $59 billion to the region’s 2019 gross domestic product — accounting for a whopping 50 to 90 percent of the G.D.P. for most of the countries, according to the International Monetary Fund. I admit that in moments of pandemic weariness I have been one of those people eyeing cheap tickets to the Caribbean, wondering when I might feel ready to jump on a flight. Now, though, our business comes with a mortal threat — that for the sake of a vacation we will bring the coronavirus to islands that are ill prepared to handle a major outbreak. But staying home could be equally ruinous.

Travelers' Choice Best of the Best
Congratulations to Coco Plum Island Resort Belize for winning Most Romantic Hotel in the World by Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards!

CARICOM Sugar – A Limping Industry
Sugar is primarily the reason the Commonwealth Caribbean commemorated Emancipation Day over this weekend, August 1, 2020. A few countries marked it on Monday, August 3. With the coming of the British into the Caribbean in 1625 to Barbados, and later to Jamaica in 1655, the production of sugar increased, as did the number of enslaved African people to provide chattel labour. Sugar has been the oldest integrated industry in the Caribbean, from the cultivation of sugar cane to the production of brown sugar, molasses and rum. The only stage that did not take place in the Caribbean was the refining of sugar, which was done in Britain, where there were 120 sugar refineries by 1750, and Canada, in Halifax, from 1818. The best-known refinery now is Tate and Lyle, established in 1859.

Blue Hole Allows Researchers to Tap Into 2,000 Years of Storms in the Caribbean
The hurricanes in the Caribbean became more frequent and their force varied noticeably around the same time that classical Mayan culture in Central America suffered its final demise: We can gain these and other insights by looking at the climate archive created under the leadership of geoscientists from Goethe University and now presented in an article in Nature journal’s Scientific Reports on July 16, 2020. Tropical cyclones in the Atlantic (hurricanes) are a substantial threat for the lives and property of the local population in the Caribbean and neighboring regions, such as the south-east of the USA. The storms’ increasing force, described in Chapter 15 of the report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC Report), raises the probability of ecological and social catastrophes, as the occurrence of such cyclones over the past 20 years, which caused devastating damage, has shown.

Actor Morgan Freeman narrates Google-funded film about plastic waste in ocean
Plastic waste floating, spiraling and gently drifting toward the ocean floor is lovingly filmed as if it is a treasured species of underwater life in a nature documentary aimed at putting a stop to water pollution. The short film, created by Goodby Silverstein & Partners (GS&P) and funded by Google, is an homage to one of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It made its online debut on YouTube and is being promoted digitally with a series of teaser spots. The film, a medley of translucent sapphire and piercing rays of light, was shot in Belize over four days by cinematographer Chris Bryan, who worked on the BBC Earth series Blue Planet II. It was directed by Tribeca-affiliated filmmaker, Brian Schulz.

Videos

August 4, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

Additional cases of COVID-19 on the island could jeopardize the re-opening of PGIA and its schools
With Case #57, the MOH's mapping exercise will likely produce several additional positive cases. If this is the case, the island could be locked down, regardless of the consequences it may have on the re-opening of the PGIA. According to the Prime Minister, the infected person was in an occupation (job) where she has to deal with a host of people, and he, therefore, expects that the Ministry of Health’s mapping exercise will likely produce several additional positive cases. If this is the case, the island could be locked down, regardless of the consequences it may have on the re-opening of the PGIA.

The San Pedro Sun Advocates for Local Journalism
For the first time in the history of the island’s community newspaper, The San Pedro Sun is appealing to their thousands of readers for support during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to The San Pedro Sun editor, Tamara Sniffin, the pandemic has been financially devasting to many businesses on the island and countrywide who usually promote their services with advertisements in the newspaper. This is the customary way print publications across the globe are funded. Now that many cannot either afford to advertise or are refraining from doing so when there are few customers to reach, this source of revenue has come to a complete halt.

San Pedro registers first COVID-19 case in months; Mar de Tumbo flu clinic re-opens
After almost five months since the first case of COVID-19 in San Pedro Town, a case was confirmed on Sunday, August 2nd, following high suspicions of an ill person. The patient is a female who presented fever and respiratory symptoms and is currently stable and in self-isolation. The patient, who marked the 57th case in the country, denies any travel history, and as a result, island health authorities have contacted persons who may have come in contact with the infected female. Several tests are expected to be conducted to detect any further positive cases. The results are expected back by tomorrow or Wednesday.

Ambergris Today

Concerns Arise From Lack Of Social Distancing And Mask Usage
Stricter laws for mandatory mask wearing might be underway in Belize as more cases of COVID-19 have increased this past week. Just yesterday, Sunday, August 2, 2020, a new corona virus infection case was confirmed in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, involving a female with no history of travel. This increases the fear of community spread cases in the country.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Tuesday, August 4th, Meal pick ups. Location: ROYAL ORCHID BAR & GRILL Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am -12:30pm.

A message from the Commissioner of Police Regarding the use of masks and social distancing protocols
Good morning with the increase of covid19 cases, the police is going to be stricter with the enforcement of the mask and social distancing laws. I cannot understand how comes we are a society that is so afraid of covid but yet many don't want to follow the protective measures put in place. I urge all to avoid any issue with the police to please wear your mask and wear it properly, covering your mouth and nose.

Commissioner of Police suggests Covid Law
We need a law that is going to make it an offense for any establishment owner, boat and bus operator to allow anyone on their premises, boat or bus without a mask and or not practicing social distancing. Once this is done they will ensure that persons on their establishment, boat or bus comply with the law. The penalty should be taking away their operators permit.

The COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program is entering into its Phase 2 and will continue to provide financial assistance to workers who have lost their income due to the negative economic impact of COVID-19. Who can benefit from the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program? The Unemployment Relief Program offers financial relief to: 1. Workers who have been laid off because of COVID-19 2. Self-employed persons who have lost their jobs and income as a result of the impact of COVID-19.

MSME SUPPORT PROGRAM - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The MSME Support Program is a Government of Belize initiative that provides financial relief to Belize's Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in order to help safeguard and promote employee retention, as well as assist MSMEs as they transition and adapt to the economic challenges presented by the COVID-19. What components are included under the MSME Support Program? • $2.5 million: Grants to micro-enterprises from across the country, with a cap of $2,500 each.

Dr. Otto Rodriguez Clinic Only Seeing Emergency Patients
Public Notice from the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II: Due to the current situation of Covid-19 on the island, we regret to inform the general public that effective August 3rd 2020, the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II will be only seeing emergency patients. This is for us to prepare and begin effective protocols for the starting of the flu clinic and effective swabbing and mapping of the island. We apologize for the inconvenience and we thank you for your understanding.

Westline Bus Co. Ltd has added a bus
Click above to see their weekly schedule.

From the Mayor of Orange Walk Town Kevin Bernard
Earlier today, a post on Love FM FB page headline: Mayor of OW to be tested, surfaced and went across social media like wild fire. I want to make some clarification so that the citizens of Orange Walk Town have some sense of calm. Over the weekend, I got information on one of the person who have contracted the corona virus and after finding out who the person was, I immediately informed the health officer as to concerns based on the fact that on July 20th, the said individual visited my OW East Political Office. It is therefore based on this findings, that I made the request to the Health authorities to kindly interview my OW East office staff and myself and have made the request for us to be swabbed in order to rule out any doubts we may have.

Ministry of Health Updates on COVID-19 Cases in Belize
As part of the Ministry of Health’s enhanced surveillance, nine total COVID-19 cases were recorded over the weekend. A record number of eight cases were recorded on August 1, 2020. Another positive case was recorded on August 2, 2020. The breakdown of the cases is as follows. Three cases are in the Central Health Region. Of these, two are from the repatriation flight from the United States and one is from the repatriation flight from Honduras. These persons are asymptomatic and are in hotel quarantine.

Fake COVID-19 Relief Funds Website
It has to come to the attention of the Government of Belize that there is a website purporting to be a COVID-19 emergency relief fund program. The public is hereby informed that the website has no validity or affiliation to the Government’s COVID-19 related programs. The official programs by the Government of Belize are the MSME Support Program and the Economic Relief Program 2. Application forms for both programs are accessible at www.covid19.bz. It is also strongly advised not to share personal information with unverified sites.

Flood Forecast for August 3, 2020

Grand Final of Copa San Pedro
It was an exciting match as Conquerors FC went face to face with San Mateo FC for the championship of Copa San Pedro 2020. In the end, Conquerors FC was victorious with 7-1 goals. Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council would like to congratulate the San Pedro Sports Committee for organizing another great tournament for all to enjoy. Also, thank you to all the teams that participated in the tournament as well as all the tournaments and individuals that made this tournament possible.

American English Live Teacher Development Series
We are pleased to invite you to the American English Live Teacher Development Series 9, which will run from September 23 to December 2, 2020. Please remember: The sessions will be broadcast using Facebook Live (www.facebook.com/AmericanEnglishforEducators). Individual members can join the discussion on their mobile devices to post their own comments and questions during the session, thus allowing for greater, more personalized interaction. If you are part of a viewing group, you will continue to be able to share your thoughts with your peers at the end of the broadcast.

Ya’axché’s Summer Camp 2020
Today the MGL youth learn about the importance of scientific research and biodiversity monitoring. Ya’axché’s Science program monitors mammals, birds, freshwater insects and trees in three protected areas and agroforestry farms. Scientific research has also been conducted on bats, bees, water quality and soils. The highlight of the day was learning about pollinators. Campers were attentive to the presentations and had several questions on learning about their importance and role in the forests. Ya’axché has identified 25 species of bees in the Maya Golden Landscape.

Channel 7

Belizeans Scared After Weekend That Saw Record Number Of COVID Cases
Tonight, Belizeans are scared - after a weekend that saw 9 new positive tests for COVID 19 - the most ever. At least two of those cases are of considerable concern for the Ministry of Health tonight, because they are showing symptoms and so far, health authorities don't know where they got infected with COVID - 19. To give you the full story, we start on Saturday when 8 positive cases were confirmed - which is a single day record since COVID testing started in Belize. But, 6 of those were in quarantine - five of them repatriates - and one border jumper in Orange Walk. All 6 of these cases are asymptomatic.

OW Market Sprayed For COVID Concerns
And while that San Pedro patient, might not know where her infection came from, the cases in the north, could always point to contraband smuggling - since that practice is widespread in that area. That's the case for one Orange Walk patient whose family members run a stall in the market. It's a red flag that was raised over the weekend leading to the closure and sanitization of the entire market area. Today Orange Walk's Mayor Kevin Bernard told CTV3 that the contrabanding has been so blatant that goods still trickling in from Mexico have been for sale at Orange Walk's market.

OW Mayor Will Test For COVID 19
And while the market is being sanitized, the mayor has his own trial to go through with this latest case. That's because patient #55 came to visit him on the 20th of July. He readily volunteered the information: "I'm not going to hide anything from anybody, the fact that I reached out to the ministry of health - this individual that has contracted Corona Virus did visit my office here on the 20th July and so we are making sure that people can understand and that we want to make sure we are safe..."

Compol Talks About Female Cop Who Tested Positive
And while the Orange Walk Mayor awaits the results of his COVID test, at least a dozen police officers will have to do the same after one of their officers tested positive for COVID-19. She is a constable from Corozal, who is hospitalized. At a press conference held this morning, Commissioner Chester Williams discussed this case, and what it means for the department, now that one of its own has been infected. Here are those comments:

PM: If There’s Community Spread on San Pedro, Shut It Down!
And while police and health workers are doing their best to stop smugglers and contact trace, there is only so much they can do. And how will they manage after August 15th when as many as a thousand visitors and returning Belizeans per week start coming in from the US? Today in a House of Representatives meeting that was all about tabling legislation to make Belize ready for an airport re-opening - the Prime Minister got very riled up when he spoke about the possibility of community spread on tourism mecca San Pedro where he said a number of persons are showing symptoms:

LOO and PM Debate Airport Opening
So while the PM has his finger on the kill switch, the leader of the opposition concedes that he supported an airport re-opening from back in July, but, now, with the infections numbers in the US being what they are, he's not so sure. Here's his exchange with the PM:.. Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "Yes I was in full support of opening up the airport on July 1st but at that time we did not have the crisis in the US that we have today and back then when I was talking about opening of the airport I said let us plan to open up properly, let us put all the protocols in place because I agree we can't stay locked up forever. So we felt that back then when (Interruption from another member of the House)"

Hon. Pablo On The Unruly Public
Health Minister Pablo Marin also recorded his disgust with mass social events - and urged the public to be more vigilant. He called the disregard for public health, heartbreaking: Hon. Pablo Marin, Minister of Health: "Over the past weeks it was heartbreaking to see the irresponsible behavior of member of the community. For example: persons not wearing a face covering mask or even adhering to the physical distancing while socializing..."

Cops Cracking Down on Mask, Distancing Violations
And for those who don't see that reality, the police department is determined to MAKE THEM see it. Police announced today that they will start cracking down on persons who are ignoring the rules of wearing face masks and practicing social distancing while in public. And the Commissioner is giving cops an incentive to make arrests! The commissioner announced today that this lax observation of the COVID rules will no longer be tolerated. Here's how he put it: "I think this weekend was one of our worst weekends in terms of the number of positive cases. And so, as the primary law enforcement agency, who have the responsibility of ensuring that the quarantine laws are adhered to - and when I say quarantine, I also am speaking about the 2 SI's, 1 that deal with social distancing..."

History: Port and CWU Sign CBA
For over a decade, 7News has been covering labour disputes at the Port of Belize, with the stevedored on one side and the Port Management on the other. It started from 2004 when Luke Espat owned the Port. And it continued when the Ashcroft Alliance took over in 2012. And, you all saw it flare up 12 days ago when police turned a protest into a riot at the port. But, through all those years of anger and agitationthere's one central discontent that's been driving the hostility: the Stevedores do not have a collective bargaining agreement. Last week, with the possible nationalisation of the port hanging in the balance, the attorney for the Port of Belize, Godfrey Smith got both sides to come to the table.

PM Outlook Still Negative on Waterloo Investment
And so, now that the Port of Belize has signed that CBA with the Stevedores, which is an important political and labour entity, will government now re-consider the proposed Waterloo investment at the Port of Belize? Weeks ago the Prime Minster said cabinet would not consider it because of the Port's state of industrial relations. Now that the stevedore CBA has been put to bed, will Cabinet now reconsider? After today's house meeting, the PM said "no way":

Port Workers Say “Hear Our Cry”
So, that sets the stage perfectly for this morning's "Hear our Cry" protest by the port workers with major support from the stevedores. The crowd of 150 left the Port Of Belize this morning banners and megaphones in hand shouting the refrain that by now has become a motto: "Touch one Touch all." But it's now accompanied by a theme song, one that the CWU blared through Yarborough, Regent, and North Front Streets as their staff members and Stevedores marched in solidarity for the wages and benefits they believe they deserve. Cherisse Halsall was in the crowd.

PM & PUP Support Reinstatement
The PUP weighed in on the pending negotiation with the Port workers today. A release says, quote, "The People's United Party calls on PBL, if it has not yet agreed to do so, to reinstate those thirty-six (36) workers who were terminated on grounds of redundancyOur people need their jobs to be able to support their families. It is the right thing to do." As we understand it, that is a thick red line which is sure to come up in negotiations tomorrow, but today, the PM said, for once, Government and the opposition are on the same page:

Southside SOE Extended, UDP Rep Chides His Own Gov’t
In news from inside the house, today the motion that generated the most debate was one to extend the Southside state of emergency by two more months. The state of emergency was declared on July 6th and was to have ended on Thursday of this week. But today government passed a motion to extend it by 60 days.

COMPOL Explains Need For SOE Extension
We also asked Police Commissioner Chester Williams to discuss the 2-month extension of the Southside State of Emergency. He echoed Aragon's words saying that the cops already have their hands full as front-line personnel in the ongoing fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Here's how he explained why the extension helps the department to focus on COVID-19, instead of on the tensions between warring gangs that could lead to more gun violence in Belize City: "I'm not sure if it has been extended. I know, yes, that recommendations have been made for an extension for an additional 60 days..."

Cabbie Walter Staine Shot In Head
But crime doesn't only happen on the Southside. On Sunday afternoon 45-year-old Walter Staine was shot to the head while driving his taxi on North Front Street - which is on the Northside. Staine was then thrown from his vehicle, which was stolen and seen speeding off across Swing Bridge. Despite all this he survived and is in critical condition tonight. This morning the cops told us that the shooter and car thief was likely his passenger.

Shadrock For Rubio’s Murder
And while Staine has survived the attempt on his life, another man 49-Year-old William Rubio was not as lucky. Last week we showed you how Rubio took his last breaths in the midst of a gathering crowd. He'd been stabbed to the neck in defense of a taxi man with whom he'd quarreled. And this morning police told us that that defender, 49-year-old Shedrock White, had been charged for murder.

A Grenade Launcher in Coro
In other police news, this weekend, Corozal police confiscated a grenade launcher that just happened to be lying around in a garbage pile in the Dominguez Layout Area of that Northern Town. It's a very dangerous weapon, and police are trying to figure out how it got into Belize. The launcher was inscribed with the words, "Federal Laboratories CAL. 40 MM.". Today, the Head of the National Criminal Investigations Branch gave us a briefing on the find:

Fantasy Five Winner Claimed 300k With Special Number
And now for some some good news, at least for one man who's won the Fantasy 5 jackpot after 15 years of buying the same number. We met him at Brad's Gaming Group's offices to find out the special and moving significance behind the five winning numbers.

Phase 2 Of Unemployment Relief Launched
Phase 2 of the Covid-19 Unemployment relief program launched today with the re-opening of its online portal. Like Phase 1 it's targeted at workers who have been laid off because of COVID-19 as well as Self-employed persons who have lost their jobs and income as a result of COVID-19. This time, however, long term unemployed persons will not be eligible - again it's only for those who lost their jobs as a result of COVID 19. Also ineligible are persons under 18, persons receiving benefits from other government programs such as BOOST or Pantry, and persons receiving a pension from Government or Social Security Board.

UBFSU Speaks
It's been a few weeks since we've last heard from the University of Belize's Faculty and Staff Union. They kind of went silent after they became fully certified as a union by the Ministry of Labour about 3 weeks ago. That's also when they started reporting that the UB Administration was finally engaging them in good-faith negotiations on how the university will survive 7.13 million dollars in loss to their revenue stream that the institution is expecting to suffer during the next academic year. Well, they released a statement today saying, quote, "UBFSU demanded access to the University's financial data and on Thursday, July 30th the union's auditor was provided [with] some financial data.

PM Says Corozal's COVID 19 Profile As Worrying As San Pedro
At the top of the news, you heard the Prime Minister's concern that there could be community spread of COVID 19 on San Pedro. Well, after the house meeting he said he fears the same for Corozal, where 40 samples have been taken: "Turn around and ask the minister and he said 40 swabs were done in Corozal. Again, that does raise the possibility that we may get enough positives that we would have to conclude there is a community spread in Corozal. I don't know too much about the details there, but because I knew some of the details of the positive in San Pedro and how many persons would have been conceivable exposed to that person - that was the one that worried me more. But you can't get away from the numbers, if its 40 people being tested in Corozal you have to be worried about that too."

The Garden City Turns 50
Belize's Capital City turned 50 over the weekend. It's a milestone for the growth of the City envisioned and pioneered by George Price. And on Saturday as the Governor-General stood at the foot of the assembly building to inspect the troops, we got reflections from the City's Mayor and area rep about Belmopan then and Belmopan now.

Channel 5

9 New Cases of COVID-19; San Pedro at Risk of Being Locked Down
Belize recorded its highest number of new COVID-19 cases over the weekend. It has sent the Ministry of Health on high alert since schools and the Philip Goldson International Airport [...]

PM Dean Barrow Upset with Border Jumpers
Today at the National Assembly building, Prime Minister Dean Barrow expressed his frustration with border jumpers, who continue to present serious threats. Most of the persons infected with COVID-19 are [...]

Female Police Officer Tests Positive for COVID-19 in Corozal
There are three positive cases reported in the Corozal District; two persons arrived via the northern border entry point as part of the repatriation process and are in hotel quarantine. [...]

OW Market Closes Temporarily for Sanitization
Also in the north, the Orange Walk Town Council has temporarily closed the market in that municipality.  The reason is because a COVID-19 patient’s family in the Orange Walk District [...]

Legislations Passed In Preparation for Reopening of P.G.I.A.
Even as there is a spike in the number of cases, government is preparing for the reopening of the Philip Goldson International Airport on August fifteenth and the soft reopening [...]

G.O.B. Extends S.O.E. on Southside Belize for Additional Two Months
While parliamentarians adopted the extension to the period of public emergency in the south side of Belize City, the motion, which was also tabled at the House of Representatives today, [...]

U.D.P. Ministers Defend S.O.E. Extension
According to members of the ruling United Democratic Party, Belize is not the only country in the region that has used legislation to curb crime.  Jamaica and other Caribbean countries [...]

‘Sedi’ Says Government Has Failed Belizeans
Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington knocked his own government during today’s sitting. Elrington is a senior member of the United Democratic Party, which took over the reins of the [...]

Julius Espat Says Elrington’s Remarks Hypocritical
As Elrington concluded his rant against his party and the government, Cayo South Area Representative Julius Espat brought it to Elrington’s attention that after three terms in office, Elrington failed [...]

Finnegan Reacts to Elrington’s Comments
Disagreeing with some of Elrington’s comments was his cabinet colleague, Michael Finnegan. Finnegan pointed out to Elrington that the Samuel Haynes Institute of Excellence was built to arrest the societal problems in [...]

C.W.U. & P.B.L. Sign Historic C.B.A. for Stevedores after Sixteen Years!
The Port of Belize and the Christian Workers Union made history on Sunday when they signed the first Collective Bargaining Agreement. It’s the first C.B.A. in sixteen years after countless [...]

What Prompted the Signing of the C.B.A.?
It has been a rocky journey to the signing of this first ever collective bargaining agreement for the stevedores. The relationship between the two deteriorated two weeks ago when more [...]

Did C.W.U. Breach Duty of Fair Representation for 2 Stevedores?
The collective bargaining agreement was signed on Sunday afternoon.  By this morning, there was a request for an urgent meeting for stevedores to file a grievance to the Labour Department.  [...]

C.W.U. Demonstrates for P.B.L. Staff!
The C.W.U. and Port of Belize have signed a Collective Bargaining for the stevedores.  On Tuesday, the C.W.U. is set to begin a new round of negotiations for a new [...]

ComPol on Extension of South Side State of Emergency
While the extension of S.O.E. in the south side was on debate in the House, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, at the police press briefing also in Belmopan, confirmed that [...]

Police Department Gearing Up to Enforce Quarantine Laws
Back to COVID-19…the increase in number of cases has triggered the Belize Police Department to tighten up on the enforcement of quarantine laws. Commissioner of Police Williams says directives have [...]

ComPol Advocates for Liability to Establishment Owners
ComPol Chester Williams is also pushing for stricter measures on violators of the COVID-19 regulations.  Williams said today that he is advocating for an amendment to the quarantine statutory instrument [...]

Elderly Man Found Dead in P.G.; No Foul Play Suspected
The body of an elderly man was discovered in Punta Gorda today. Just after nine o’clock this morning, police were called out to the Joe Taylor Bridge in that southern [...]

Grenade Launcher Found in Corozal
In the north, a forty-millimetre grenade launcher was discovered in Corozal. On Saturday afternoon, officers searched an overgrown property in the Dominguez Layout area and discovered the suspected military issued [...]

Taxi Man Shot, Thrown from Cab
A taxi operator remains in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was shot to the head by his fare here in the City. On Sunday, [...]

U.S. Retiree Injured in Home Invasion in San Pedro
A U.S. retiree was injured in a home invasion in San Pedro over the weekend. Reports are that seventy-five-year-old John Wallace was at home in the San Pablo area on [...]

Shedrack White Charged for the Murder of William Rubio
He was detained by police minutes after he inflicted a fatal stab wound to William Rubio near the Pound Yard Bridge on the night of July twenty-ninth. Over the weekend, [...]

Robbery on Bullet Tree Road; Police Search for 2 Men
A pair of thieves, believed to be responsible for a series of robberies in the west, hit a supermarket once again on Friday night. Around seven-thirty as patrons went about [...]

Samuel August Sr. Sentenced to 7 Years for Robbery
Magistrate Emerson Banner today sentenced Samuel August Senior to seven years imprisonment after he found him guilty on Friday of the November second, 2018 robbery of a woman’s vehicle, which [...]

B.N.T.U. Says Many Schools Are Not Ready for August 10th Reopening!
As COVID-19 cases continue to grow, there are concerns across the country about the reopening of schools. Parents and students are preparing at home in anticipation of the new school [...]

The Reporter

State of Emergency in Southside Belize City Extended
At the House meeting this morning, Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow introduced a motion to extend Statutory Instrument No.97 for the State of Emergency in Southside Belize City, which was to expire on August 6, to be extended a further 2 months! Bill was read thru all 3 readings and passed in House of Representatives on August 4. Freetown area representative Hon. Francis Fonseca objected to extending the Southside SOE, saying a State of Emergency was never intended to fight crime, and in the interest of protecting civil liberties, he wished to add the caveat that the Security Forces should also be warned that this is not a license to abuse the civil rights of citizens, as it is their duty to protect citizens' civil rights.

Body found in PG
The Reporter has confirmed reports that the body of an elderly man was found around 10:00 a.m. today in Punta Gorda. Sources say that the individual was found washed up on the beach and is suspected to have drowned. While a Police investigation into the discovery is ongoing we were told that there are no signs of injuries on the body.

Breaking Belize News

Sedi Elrington criticizes government for failing Belize City’s youths
In a bold move in today’s house meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs criticized his government […]

Nine COVID-19 cases detected in Belize over the weekend, 3 have no travel history
A total of 9 COVID-19 cases were detected in Belize over the weekend. A record […]

Man from Armenia, Cayo reported missing
Authorities are asking the public’s assistance in locating Daniel Osequeda, a 23-year-old resident of Armenia […]

Government warns of fake COVID-19 Relief Funds Website
It has to come to the attention of the Government of Belize that there is […]

Interpol Belize hands over Guatemalan and Salvadoran nationals
On July 31, 2020, Interpol Belize handed over Salvadoran Simon Balthazar Lopez Vales and Guatemalan […]

“Teachers and Principals have huge concerns about reopening,” says Teachers Union president
Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) President Elena Smith, said today that union members have expressed […]

Christian Workers Union takes to the street in support of laid-off Port staff
Despite successfully brokering a collective bargaining agreement for stevedores with the Port of Belize Limited […]

People’s United Party clarifies position on redistricting
The People’s United Party, if elected, plans to carry out redistricting of electoral divisions in […]

Commissioner of Police details plans for extended State of Emergency
Speaking even as it was being debated in the House of Representatives, Commissioner of Police […]

https://www.breakingbelizenews.com/2020/08/03/breaking-corozal-police-officer-catches-covid-19/Corozal police officer catches COVID-19
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed that a police officer from Corozal, other particulars not […]

CARICOM congratulates Guyana on elections declaration
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) issued a statement welcoming the conclusion of the Guyana General and […]

Health Minister issues stern warning after a spike in COVID-19 cases
Minister of Health Pablo Marin opened today’s meeting of the House of Representatives with a […]

Special meeting of House concerns responses to COVID-19 and extension of Southside State of Emergency
The Government of Belize proposes amendments to the Immigration, Hotels and Tourist Accommodation Act, and […]

Online portal for unemployment benefits now open
The Government of Belize’s (GOB)’s Phase 2 rollout of it’s unemployment benefits program officially kicked […]

PUP says Collective Bargaining Agreement between Port and Christian Workers Union is victory for Belize
Today, the People’s United Party (PUP) issued a statement saying that the fact that the […]

Commissioner of Police calls for law to ensure establishments and transportation operators enforce masks, social distancing
Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams issued a statement this morning calling for a new law […]

Belize monitors 25 active cases of COVID-19
Health authorities are currently monitoring 25 cases of COVID-19. Of the 25 active cases, 13 […]

Police “to get tough” on COVID-19 regulations
The Police Department has issued a warning: comply with the COVID-19 regulations or you will […]

Blogs

Bugs that Bite in Belize
I hope this does not come as a shock to anyone but Belize is in the tropics and…the secret is out! We, Belize, have bugs that bite or sting or just suck a bit of your blood. My paranoia runs high when it comes to blood sucking pests so here is my guide to BITING BUGS IN BELIZE. Note: I know many of you are going to tell me that DEET is the worst chemical ever. Or try to sway me with natural remedies – tucking a citronella flower in your button hole, a dab of lavender oil or a dryer sheet in your pocket. I don’t like to mess around when it comes to itch (or involuntary bloodletting). THE MOSQUITO, SANDFLIES, BOTLASS OR “BATTLE ASS” FLIES, DOCTOR FLIES, FIRE ANTS.

Our National Flower – The Black Orchid
The scientific name of the black orchid is Prosthechea cochleata and its other common names are the clamshell or cockleshell orchid. The black orchid got these names due to the shape and color of its “lip.” As an epiphytic species of plant, the black orchid grows while hanging off of other plants. In the specific case of the black orchid, it favors growing along the faces of trees growing in damp areas like the lush rainforests and mangroves fond throughout Belize. The black orchid is also a sympodial plant, meaning its branches develop unevenly. A sympodial plant will have at least one branch that is stronger and more durable than the others and it is from this strong branch that other branches will grow from. The common genus name for Prosthechea is “appendage orchid” due to how they all grow off of another plant like the arm or leg of an animal.

Can Foreigners Buy Real Estate In Belize?
Many people are looking beyond their own country’s borders to find an affordable life elsewhere. The mild weather, scenic surroundings and easygoing lifestyle of Belize attract thousands of retirees and expatriates every year. If you plan to join them, here’s what you need to know. Yes, foreigners can buy property in Belize with no restrictions. The government of Belize has long encouraged the sale of properties to expatriates who want to retire here or establish a business that creates jobs for Belizeans.

International Sources

Jaguar Poaching Driven by Chinese Demand for Teeth and Parts
The poaching of big cats in South America is being driven by a growing demand for jaguar parts in China, according to both expert and official sources. A new study published in early June by the journal Conservation Biology has analyzed data from Central and South America showing that seizures of jaguar parts has increased throughout the region. The jaguars’ range stretches from the southwestern United States and Mexico across most of Central America and south from there to Paraguay and northern Argentina.

Videos

August 3, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

Handing Over Ceremony of Eighteen Police Motorcycles for Road Safety Enforcement in 9 Municipalities
In 2019, the Government of Belize received funds in loan financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of Belize's Second Road Safety Project. This event is to roll out Eighteen Fully Equipped 2020 Kawasaki Versys X 300 ABS Patrol Motorcycles which were handed over to Municipal Traffic Officers in support of Belize's Road Safety Master Plan 2030 and the Municipal Road Safety Operational Plan. The partnership with CDB builds on institutional capacity along with the provision of resources to carry out the task to save lives from road traffic crashes.

Ambergris Today

New COVID-19 Case Appears In San Pedro After 4 Months Of First Case
Approximately four months after Belize announced its first COVID-19 case in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, (March 22, 2020) a new corona virus case emerges on La Isla Bonita, San Pedro. The case involves a female who is experiencing symptoms of the sickness.

Various Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Soup Kitchen day Location
Monday, August 3rd, Meal pick ups. Location: Belize Diving Services Ltd. Times: Village: 11:00am - 11:45am. Bahia: 11:45am -12:30pm.

CWU and PBL Sign Collective Bargaining Agreement for Stevedores
Today, August 2, 2020, the Christian Workers Union (CWU) and the Port of Belize Limited (PBL), in the presence of the Labour Department, signed a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for stevedores, which became effective immediately. The signing of the CBA is the culmination of negotiations and collaborative actions that intensified last Wednesday, July 29th, 2020 and ended today. Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour, Dr. Hon. Carla Barnett, congratulates the stevedores, the CWU and PBL for undertaking these negotiations in an atmosphere of respect, positivity and compromise to reach this crucial milestone of finally having a CBA in place after 16 years.

Case 57 confirmed in San Pedro
COVID-19 update from Office of Director of Health Services Given a highly suspect case we had in the island of San Pedro, a test was ran and we have confirmed case #57 on the island. This case is that in a female who presented with fever and respiratory symptoms and is currently being managed on the island. This female denies any travel history and contact tracing for possible source of infection is currently underway. Once further information is known, we will be informing all.

Traveller Classifications and Entry Requirements as of August 15, 2020
Take a look at this infographic if you are seeking to come home to Belize after the international airport opens up on August 15th.Traveller Classification Entry Requirements - No change for tourists but more info for business and home owners. Note that as of now, the App is still not available.

WATER TAXI TERMINAL IN BELIZE CITY
PASSENGERS ON THEIR WAY TO THE ISLANDS - NO SOCIAL DISTANCING - MISSING MASKS

DIRECTOR OF HEALTH SERVICES EXPRESSES SERIOUS CONCERNS OVER THE LACK OF PROPER HYGIENE PRACTICES AGAINST COVID19
As we go through the weekend following active cases, we are getting bombarded with photos, accounts and social media posts where there is clearly NO ELEMENT of PHYSICAL DISTANCING and NO PROPER WEARING OF A MASK in most instances. These are being reported at crowded bus and boat terminals and at big parties being hosted prior to 'August 15th' - as an incentive 'before the plane lands'. Please take note that we cannot anticipate that we are 'all safe' before August 15th or that we are suddenly all in danger after August 15th!

Message from the OWTC: Reference Closure of the Market
The Orange Walk Town Council hereby informs the general public that effective tomorrow the market area will be closed temporarily to vendors and customers. This is to allow for the full sanitization of that area. This decision has come about due to the fact that one of the Covid19 patient had and has been conducting business at the Fort Cairns Market Plaza. The family has a stall and they all have been placed in home quarantine. In order to avoid the spread of this very deadly virus, we have taken the decision to close the market temporarily.

Belize Zoo Virtual Tour
The Belize Zoo is having their virtual tour today. It's free, and it starts at 10am Belize time. "The Facebook Live Tour of the Belize Zoo will be starting at 12:00 Eastern US, 9:00 Pacific US, 10:00 in Belize. The amazing staff will be taking us on a virtual VIP tour with special guest speakers to introduce many of the animals that call this zoo home. The tour is Free! However, if you are able, donations are welcomed and encouraged at the GoFundMe link below. All donations will go directly to the zoo to help them continue to do their necessary work for the animals in Belize.

LOVE FM

SHOT AND ROBBED
A taxi operator was shot and his vehicle was stolen this morning just after two o'clock. 45-year-old Walter Staine was driving on North Front Street in Belize City when he was shot and thrown out of his vehicle. The said vehicle was later found abandoned on Far West Street in Belize City.

Breaking Belize News

Orange Walk market closed temporarily due to COVID-19 case
The Orange Walk Town Council announced this evening that as of Monday, August 3rd, the […]

Port of Belize and Christian Workers Union sign Collective Bargaining Agreement
Following the most recent round of negotiations, the Port of Belize Limited (PBL) and the […]

Manzanero expresses concern over mass gatherings, no physical distancing and improper use of masks
Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero, says that he and the Ministry of Health […]

COVID-19 case #57 detected in San Pedro
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that a case of COVID-19 has been detected in […]

Organization of American States mourns death of officer that worked in Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone
The Organization of American States (OAS) is mourning the death of one of its officers, […]

Orin “Bredda O” Velasquez laid to rest today
The family and friends of Orin Crecencio Velasquez also known as “Bredda O” paid their […]

Let the countdown begin: Teachers headed back to schools tomorrow
In preparation for the reopening of schools on August 10, teachers countrywide are headed back […]

Poor and Famous Culture Club hosting fundraising sticker drive
Poor and Famous Culture Club (PFCC), a grassroots initiative for at-risk youth is seeking the […]

Norwegian Cruise Line extends cancellations to November, offering refunds to affected customers
Forbes has reported that Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has canceled all of its scheduled cruises […]

Over 18 million COVID-19 infections worldwide
As the COVID-19 pandemic enters its 9th month, over 18 million people have been affected […]

Taxi man shot and thrown out of cab
Police are investigating a shooting incident in which Walter Staine, a cab driver […]

Belizean-American businessman donates 10 lazer thermometers to Cristo Rey RC School
Belizean American businessman and Owner of Ramon & Sons Sewer and Water, Ramon Palma has donated 10 lazer thermometers to Cristo Reg Roman Catholic School […]

International Sources

Kentucky man sentenced in fake investment scheme
A Kentucky man has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for using fake investment schemes to bilk people out of $2.4 million. Rodney Scott Phelps, 58, of Somerset, was also ordered in federal court last week to pay restitution. Prosecutors said Phelps and a co-defendant convinced investors to pour money into an oil venture opportunity involving the government of Belize. Another scheme involved investing in various commodities markets and a third convinced victims to invest in a Mississippi casino purchase.

One cut after the other Climate change killing the Caribbean
Amid the feverish work to cope with both the public health and economic effects of COVID-19 on their populations, Caribbean governments can be forgiven for dropping their guard against the existential dangers posed by climate change. But their guard must be raised again. The dangers are enlarging; they need continuous and comprehensive attention, as the present hurricane season reminds. The difference between the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change is that, while the circumstances that the coronavirus has engendered seem interminable, they will pass or be significantly improved in the medium term, but the effects of climate change are set to worsen for a very long time.

Videos

August 2, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

GOB Launches Phase Two of the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief and MSME Program
Government of Belize, through a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce, the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development, and BELTRAIDE, hereby announces the launch of phase two of Government’s COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program, incorporating the previously announced MSME Support Program. The launch of the MSME Program commences today, August 1, 2020, with the rolling out of the program’s website which provides information on the program, frequently asked questions and instructions on how to apply, prior to the official opening of the application portal.

U.S. Government Hands Over Classroom Building in San Isidro to Ministry of Education
On July 30, the U.S. Embassy and the Ministry of Education held a ceremony to announce the handover to the Ministry of Education of a classroom building constructed through the U.S. Southern Command’s Humanitarian Assistance Program in San Isidro Village in Toledo District. The handover ceremony was attended by the Honorable Patrick Faber, Minister of Education and Youth, Sports, and Culture, along with representatives from the Ministry of Education, local government and school officials, and families of San Isidro students. The short program was officiated by Mr. Jose Funez, Principal of San Isidro School, with U.S. Embassy Belmopan Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Keith Gilges speaking on behalf of the United States.

IOM Belize organizes a double humanitarian charter flight for stranded migrants
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Belize organized (30/07) its second humanitarian charter flight carrying 15 stranded Honduran nationals to Honduras and bringing 18 Belizeans who returned home from Honduras. The group had been waiting in Belize and Salvador for almost four months due to COVID-19 related border and airport closures. IOM has supported the Governments of Belize and Honduras in their efforts to return these stranded group of migrants. These efforts were closely coordinated with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of both countries and their Embassies, the Ministry of National Security, Ministry of Health and The Department of Immigration.

BTB’s Belizean Traveller Campaign to highlight essential workers for their hard work during the pandemic
The second phase of the ‘Belizean Traveller Campaign,’ spearheaded by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has been launched. The project is designated to promote domestic tourism by encouraging Belizeans to be tourists in their own country. In its fourth edition, the campaign seeks to honour some unsung heroes who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic via an Essential Workers Competition. Nominees within the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Belize Police Department have been identified, and votes can be cast online. They include San Pedro’s Dr. Javier Canul and Police Constable Harris Gabourel, who along with six other candidates, are in the competition for an essential worker award that includes a vacation getaway.

Expansion of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve to Protect Important Reef Ecosystem
The Minister with responsibility for Fisheries, Dr. Hon. Omar Figueroa, has signed a Statutory Instrument for the expansion of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve to protect an important reef ecosystem known as the Corona Reef or Cayman Crown located south of the Sapodilla Cayes. The Corona Reef is situated at the southwest terminus of the Cayman Trench, within Belize’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The Corona Reef complex is one of the most under represented habitats in the marine protected areas system of Belize and is believed to be a biologically important hotspot, serving as a spawning aggregation site for numerous fin fish species and as a habitat for deep-slope snapper and bottom-dwelling species.

Various Belizean Sources

COVID-19 Update from Office of Director of Health Services
As we continue with our enhanced surveillance, we have to report a record number of positive cases in any single day as we have detected 8 new cases in the batch of samples completed today. The breakdown of the 8 cases is as follows: - 3 in the Central Health Region: 2 from the repatriation flight from the US and 1 from the repatriation flight from Honduras. These persons are asymptomatic and are in hotel quarantine.

Government of Belize Launches Phase of the Unemployment Relief Program and MIPYMES
The Government of Belize, through a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development and BELTRAIDE, announces the launch of phase two of the Unemployment Aid Program by Government COVID-19, incorporating the MIPYMES Support Program that was previously announced. The launch of the MIPYMES Program begins today, August 1, 2020, with the deployment of the program's website providing program information, frequently asked questions and instructions on how to apply, before the official opening of the portal of the app.

Stevedores have not returned to work
The Christian Workers Union (CWU) wishes to set the record straight that at this time Stevedores have not returned to work. While Negotiating Teams for the Port of Belize Ltd (PBL) and CWU, with facilitation by a Team from the Ministry of Labour, continues to engage in negotiations to conclude a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), Stevedores in two unanimous votes, decided not to return to work without a signed CBA. Thus, in the absence of any signed CBA, Stevedores have not returned to work.

Interact Club of Corozal Fundraiser
Get ready for Interact Club of Corozal's 2nd Fundraiser - Friday, 7th August @ Central Park. Ceviche cup @ $3.00 small n $6.00 Big. 3 Chicken Tacos @ $1.00. Call 605-8997, email or inbox FB page for pre-orders.

TEACHERS OF ST. PAUL'S ANGLICAN SCHOOL INSTALL SANITATION STATION
Teachers and local Manager, Mr. G. Sampson of St. Paul's Anglican School installed a sanitation station at the entrance of the school compound. The school wishes to thank all its family and friends who donated towards its school's re-opening project. Yesterday, the school was inspected by Officers of the District Education Center and the Ministry of Health and the school is extremely proud to say that they have done extremely well.

SUCCESSFUL BACK TO SCHOOL DRIVE AND GIVEAWAY BY ARCHANGEL MEDICAL CENTER IN COROZAL
Archangel Medical Center hands out today, a total of 130 School bags, 150 school supplies and snacks for 200 school children and many got their COVID19 hair cuts and face painted. The turn out was so overwhelming that the program ran out of tickets but promise to be back next year. Archangel Medical Center would like to extend its deepest gratitude to all its wonderful sponsors.

Mopan River Reforestation Project
Volunteers are needed for the Mopan River Reforestation Project, a joint effort between the DYS and the FCD. The project happens on Tuesday, August 4th, and starts at 6:30am. Let them know if you're interested via the form. "The Department of Youth Services (DYS) has partnered with Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) to carry out a reforestation project of approximately 10,000 seedlings that consist and are not limited to trees such as , Mahogany, Ceder , Tambran and many more. Volunteers are needed to help carry out this project which is to plant 200 seedlings along the Mopan River. A reforestation project will take place on August 4, 2020. Starting at 6:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.

Lic.Luis Alonzo Muñoz Passes away
Its is not the best of news, but it is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of a great friend and collegue Lic.Luis Alonzo Muñoz, who 's role as an OAS member was always carried our with great pride, commitment and enthusiasm in our community and neighbouring country through the OAS Culture of Peace. We have lost a Dear Friend,Our,Work Collegue,a Warrior but we have gained an angel in heaven, we will miss you dearly as a great pillar in the development of the arts, goodwill and spirit as we continue working with the Culture of Peace Program.

Channel 7

Two new COVID cases of unknown origin include one police officer
Reports reaching 7News indicate that a constable in Corozal has tested positive for COVID 19 and is hospitalized and recovering. As a result all the officers at this station (more than a dozen) have been placed on quarantine. The Ministry of Health says this police officer is one of two hospitalized cases which will require extensive contact tracing as they don’t seem have any link outside of Belize so far.

Channel 5

Khalid Belisle will not seek re-election; John Saldivar picks his candidate for the job!
Belmopan Area Representative John Saldivar announces that he is throwing his support behind Richie Galvez to be the UDP’s mayoral candidate in Belmopan for the next municipal elections. Saldivar says that Mayor Khalid Belisle will not be seeking re-election. In his statement, Saldivar thanks Belisle for his service and notes that Belisle made the decision not to seek re-election a while back.

Breaking Belize News

Belize monitors 24 active cases of COVID-19
Health officials are monitoring 24 active cases of COVID-19. Today, the Ministry of Health detected […]

Belize detects 8 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health confirmed this evening that there is a record number of positive […]

Emancipation day reflections Part 2 – 5 point plan to get us out of mental slavery and dependency
By Hugh O'Brien On 1st August 2020, Part I of 2 articles am writing reflecting on the state of affairs of 'black' people as we celebrate emancipation day, was posted and shared on Breaking Belize News. […]

Mexico’s COVID-19 death toll becomes the world’s third-highest
The BBC says that Belize’s northern neighbor, Mexico, has become the country with the third-highest […]

Belize observes Emancipation Day
Minister of Education, Youth, Culture and Sports Patrick Faber earlier today released a video statement […]

Emancipation day reflections Part I – The mindset of ‘blacks’ in Belize
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Government to launch phase 2 of unemployment relief program on Monday
The online application portal for unemployment relief will re-open on August 3, 2020. Workers who […]

Government launches Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise program
The Government of Belize, through a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Investment, Trade […]

John Saldivar says goodbye to Khalid; endorses Richie Galvez
Belmopan Area Representative, John Saldivar issued a statement today thanking Belmopan Mayor Khalid Belisle and […]

Caye Caulker Food Expo happening today
The first-ever Caye Caulker Food Expo is happening today on Calle al Sol/ Avenida Langosta. […]

Future of “Pawpa” Mena uncertain in Dangriga; “Boots” co-opts Finnegan in switch to Pickstock
The ruling United Democratic Party (UDP)’s internal jockeying continues in the race to the general elections due later this year...

Negotiations between Christian Workers Union and Port of Belize continue, stevedores still not back on the job
The Christian workers Union (CWU) announced today that, despite notable progress in its negotiations with the Port of Belize Limited, the stevedores who are members of the union have still not returned to work...

Phase 2 of COVID-19 unemployment relief to commence on Monday
The Belize COVID-19 unemployment relief financial assistance portal is scheduled to re-open on Monday, August 3, 2020...

Caribbean countries find there’s no good answer to reopening for tourism; where will Belize fall?
CNN reports that the Hobson's choice of keeping visitors out of picturesque Caribbean islands to protect citizens at an economic cost, or risk opening up to tourism and exposure to a pandemic...

Elections could be delayed due to re-districting challenge in the Supreme Court
As it stands, Belize is headed to general elections later this year, by at least the first week of November per Prime Minister Dean Barrow...

Blogs

Calling All Ocean Sleuths: Natural Rubber Bales Wash Up on the Shores of Belize?
For WEEKS, I have been mildly obsessed with these strange rubbery blocks that I’ve found on Ambergris Caye. There is one just a few hundred feet north of us – I saw one just a bit north of that. And then my curiosity was LIT ON FIRE when we spotted one about 15 miles north – at Robles Point. WHAT THE HECK ARE THESE THINGS? This is the bale? at about Mile 15, Ambergris Caye. I think these things are bales of rubber. But what are they doing on Ambergris Caye? And why did they just wash up over the last 2 months? (Oops, there goes another rubber ship….)

Barbados’ PM calls for ‘Caribbean Safe Bubble’ for Regional Travel
As a region heavily dependent on tourism, the Caribbean needs to be a safe bubble to promote island-hopping and regional tourism in this new travel era of COVID-19. In an effort to promote nationals and visitors to fly for cheaper from territory to territory within the Caribbean, Barbados’ leader Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley. In a recent address, Mottley confirmed her teams are diligently working on the protocols accordingly. Initiatives, such as the Barbados Welcome Stamp, will add value and bring tourists not only to Barbados, but the entire Caribbean region. The Caribbean countries of Barbados, Belize and the Bahamas are among the most exposed in the world to the sudden pause in global tourism.

Four Favorite Activities in San Ignacio, Belize
We are taking every precaution to make your stay and adventures worry free. Thrilling adventures, personal safety, and guest security are intertwined in our private adventure tours. From cultural experiences to relaxing day trips, our private tours offer the best of Belize with the safety of our experienced adventure specialists guiding you from start to finish. A guest-favorite is a full-day itinerary in near-by San Ignacio Town. Guests love this day-trip for a fully immersive experience in Belize’s culture, cuisine, and wildest of wildlife!

International Sources

A personal view on 'white privilege' and Black Lives Matte
I looked back on my pre-teen years living on the Miskito Coast along the Atlantic coast of Central America. My parents were Seventh-day Adventist missionaries in the Bay Islands of Honduras, and later in British Honduras, now the independent country of Belize. Both Belize and Honduras were beautiful places to grow up. I’m sure some readers have been there to fish, snorkel, or dive. But as I look back, I now realize I had blinders on. Though I had gone to school with White, Brown, and Black children, had become bilingual in Spanish and English, had an opportunity to be better educated, and traveled more than most people — which I acknowledge and am thankful for — I was blind to my “White privilege.”

One cut after the other Climate change killing the Caribbean
Amid the feverish work to cope with both the public health and economic effects of COVID-19 on their populations, Caribbean governments can be forgiven for dropping their guard against the existential dangers posed by climate change. But their guard must be raised again. The dangers are enlarging; they need continuous and comprehensive attention, as the present hurricane season reminds.

Videos

August 1, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye join forces with Belize Children’s Assistance Organization to send children to school
The Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye has teamed up with the Belize Children’s Assistance Organization (BCAO) on the island to assist four children with their upcoming school fees. BCAO has been advocating for jobless parents on the island since April due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Created by islander Yamilett Cerpa, the organization has helped the less fortunate with basic food items and baby products, and now with the help of donors and other organizations, they are trying to help send children to school.

Various Belizean Sources

Belize's Economic Recovery Strategy
The Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, joined by Hon. Tracy Panton, Minister with responsibility for Investment, Trade and Commerce, and Hon. Godwin Hulse, Minister of Food and Agriculture, launched Belize's Economic Recovery Strategy at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza on July 31, 2020.

Mr. Francisco Luis Nuñez passes away
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to express its sincere condolences to the Nuñez family on the sad passing of Mr. Francisco Luis Nuñez, better known as, Teacher Frank or Mr. Frank. Teacher Frank was a true pioneer to education in the Town of San Pedro as he was one of the founders of San Pedro High School in its genesis. Later on, Teacher Frank branched out and opened his own institution of learning, St. Peter's College. We hope his family finds strength in each other to overcome this great loss. Teacher Frank will be greatly missed. May his soul rest in peace.

Dive Into Tourism newest publication is NOW AVAILABLE!
The rippling effects of the Corona Virus Pandemic has changed the tourism industry and air travel as we know it.

Caye Caulker RC School Virtual Presentation
Please take notice that the Principal of Caye Caulker R. C. School will be holding a virtual presentation on Sunday, August 2, 2020, at 2:00pm to share our school plan for the new school year. Please make an effort to log on to The Voice of Caye Caulker facebook at this time to be fully informed of the procedures and protocols that will be put in place. You will be able to send in your questions or call in after presentation.

Elections and Boundaries Dept. visiting Caye Caulker Aug 7,8,9
The general public is hereby notified that the Elections and Boundaries Department will be at the Cave Caulker Community Center. Cave Caulker Village during the period 7th. 8th. and 9th August 2020. between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to accept applications for registration and change of division.

Monthly Rainfall Summary for June 2020
The month of June marks the official beginning of the Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season. In Belize it is also the first full month of the rainy season which usually starts around mid-May. June is climatologically the wettest month of the year at the airport and also at many of the weather stations across the country. Weather systems that typically produce rain during this month include tropical waves, Tropical Upper Tropospheric Troughs (TUTTs) and very rarely tropical cyclones.

COVID-19 Update | July 31, 2020
A further 66 samples were processed today for SARS-CoV2. We have recovered 3 patients, these are all from the OW district. We don't have any case today so we remain at 48. We continue to remain vigilant for all suspect cases and our enhances surveillance will continue to test all suspect cases. We continue to urge the community to engage with the prevention measures as we all move along together.

NEW CONTROLLED PRICES FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)
The Supplies Control Unit (SCU) in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce is hereby informing the general public that effective Friday, July 31st, 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.

Expansion of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve to Protect Important Reef Ecosystem
The Minister with responsibility for Fisheries, Dr. Hon. Omar Figueroa, has signed a Statutory Instrument for the expansion of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve to protect an important reef ecosystem known as the Corona Reef or Cayman Crown located south of the Sapodilla Cayes.

DFC TOURISM SECTOR RECOVERY LOANS
DFC, helping Belize and our Tourism stakeholders through challenging times.

Land title transfers with foreign nationals rule change
BNAR - Belize National Association of Realtors - In a move that our members and industry stakeholders at large have been clamoring for, The Government of Belize has announced that Land Title transfers involving foreign nationals will no longer require The Central Bank of Belize's approval before it can be processed by the lands department. As a replacement, government will now require that the Central Bank simply be notified of these transactions. And in the event a transaction is suspect, the Central Bank will be able to flag that specific application and conduct relevant investigations.

GOVERNMENT DE-REGULATES HALLMARK EXCHANGE CONTROL REGULATION OF LAND TRANSFER & SECURITIES PERMITS FROM CENTRAL BANK
In a Statutory Instrument No. 106 of 2020 dated July 29th, 2020 EXCHANGE CONTROL (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS, 2020 Regulation 8 of the principal Regulations is amended by deleting the words "Except with the permission of the Central Bank" Notwithstanding, the Central Bank needs to be notified in writing providing full particulars of the real estate transaction. It has been pointed out by many land owners and purchasers that the Central Bank, would take in some instances a year to grant permit for certain real estate transactions, involving foreigners, to be completed. This delay prevented land transfer closings to take place and therefore delayed tax collection from Government of Belize and efficient closing by the real estate provider, seller and buyer.

The Social Security Board Belize is awarding 53 scholarships

Sacred Heart Plan for Reopening of Schools
Sacred Heart College has their reopening plan online.

Happy 50th Belmopan!
The big celebration is today. Belmopan will be commemorating its 50th Golden Anniversary, today August 1st, 2020, under the theme “The Garden is golden.” Here is some flashback of the 1970’s Newspapers about the new capital.

Keith Gilges visited the National Gas Company Limited
Charge d’ Affaires, a.i Keith Gilges visited the National Gas Company Limited (NGCL) yesterday and met with Dr. Gilbert Canton, Managing Director, at the Big Creek Port to learn more about the company’s efforts in addressing Belize’s energy security. NGCL is a public private partnership (PPP) involved in the importation, bulk storage and wholesale distribution of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Belize. The company is an excellent example of American and Belizean partnership supporting economic development. The company’s vision is to address Belize’s energy security needs, while providing a transparent price and quality supply of LPG to Belizean consumers.

Channel 7

Port Workers Return, Stevedores Sit Out, Wait on CBA
The Port of Belize is not receiving cargo ships yet, but it could open this weekend. However, the Port workers came off strike, and things did start to get moving today. Customs brokers were able to clear containers that had been sitting for over a week. Those brokers were also forced to pay storage fees for the days lost to the strike - costs which they say will ultimately be passed unto consumers. Meanwhile, the Vanquish container vessel remains anchored off the coast of Belize City this evening, waiting for the stevedores to get back to work. The Port management, Shipping agents and importers are crossing their fingers, while talks continue at this hour between the Port of Belize and the Christian Workers Union. A press release from the CWU says, quote, "Stevedores in two unanimous votes, decided not to return to work without a signed CBA."

PM Says Nationalisation Off The Table, For Now
And with that measured progress - the Prime Minister today said that with this sign of a possible breakthrough in negotiations, he's backing down on taking over the Port:

PM’s Says Ashcroft Letter "Revealing"
And so while the Prime Minister is closely watching things at the Port of Belize, it seems Michael Ashcroft is closely watching him. Today, when asked to respond to Ashcroft's cautionary letter about nationalising the Port, the PM seemed to revel in Lord Ashcroft's response to his suggestion of a possibly port takeover: "My God, did it produce a rise out of the good Lord Ashcroft. He really was provoked and perhaps he said more than he should have. A matter for him, I will leave that judgement for him to make..."

GOB Will Look More Closely At Belize Bank Ownership
And, the PM says Ashcroft's reference to Waterloo Investment Holdings Limited as the owner of both British Caribbean Bank Limited and Private Investment Limited, is reason enough to give the government pause to reflect on the Belize Bank's acquisition of Scotiabank Belize: "It strikes me that the Government's position in terms of for example the proposed acquisition of Scotia Bank by the Belize Bank is something that this Government will have to take a formal stand on. If the Belize Bank and the if the merger goes through..."

Ashcroft, the Investor
And, the PM also took some shots at Ashcroft, who, for all the bad mouthing he promises to do about Belize's investment climate, just keeps on investing in Belize:

Woman Charged For Wagner’s Lane Arson
On Monday we told you about the fire on Wagner's lane that destroyed one house and severely damaged another. It's been described as apparent arson, the culmination of a domestic dispute. At the time we told you that two women had been detained in connection to the fire. And yesterday morning one of those women, 21-year-old Sheniqua Peters, was arraigned on two counts of arson before Senior Magistrate, Aretha Ford.

Border Jumpers, Again
For weeks we've been telling you about the greatest security threat to Belize's fight against COVID-19, they're border jumpers, and, they're relentless.The latest is Manuel Rubio, an elderly man who authorities found in the company of another man near Fire Burn on the old northern highway. Both men were transported to the Northern Regional highway to be handed over to health authorities for swabbing.

Santander’s Sweet Sound of Success
Over the last few months, we've been telling you all about the financial struggles that the Government and the private sector have been facing, since the Coronavirus pandemic inflicted the world. At this time, Belize and other countries around the globe are struggling to survive the economic crisis that this deadly disease has caused. Well, our next story is a significant departure from all that bad news.Santander Sugar, who made a multi-million dollar investment in the sugar industry in the Cayo District, is reporting tonight that they have concluded a very successful year of harvest and production.

PM Says Re-Districting Suit Could Delay Elections
Turning back now to today's press conference.the Prime Minister discussed the possibility that elections could be delayed by a re-districting lawsuit currently before the supreme court. It's brought by the Belize Peace Movement to challenge the way the electoral divisions are broken down. They say it is not proportional, when the constitution requires that it must be. so, they want to trigger a redistricting exercise, preferably before the next general elections are held.

PM Supports Embattled Pol Pawpa Mena
And, in those general elections, the Prime Minister says he would like to see Frank Pawpa Mena represent the UDP in the Dangriga constituency. As we have reported, there's a petition form UDP's in the division asking for a convention to replace Mena, who they feel cannot win.But, the PM does feel he can win. He explained why today:

Boots For Pickstock!
And the Prime Minister also commented on that other division which is going through changes, Pickstock. The three term incumbent Wilfred Elrington is stepping down after the election and the PM confirmed the rumours that outgoing Port Loyola Rep Boots Martinez is interested in the job - and he has a brand name campaign manager: Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow- Prime Minister:"I'll go you one better, I understand that not only is he interested in contesting, I hear that he's already acquired a campaign manager in the person of the one and only Michael Finnegan. I don't know how things will turn out. Again, I am sorry the leader-elect isn't here but that there is that interest enabled, empowered, assisted by the Honorable Finnegan, of that there is no doubt."

UDP Turned Independent Anna Banner Launches in Belmopan
Another interesting wrinkle in the UDP political mix is Anna Banner Guy. The former UDP city councillor wants to run independently, and this afternoon in Belmopan she launched her candidacy:

GOB Launches Economic Recovery Strategy
And, while the news from today's press conference so far has been all about Ashcroft and Politics, really, the three hour long press conference was held to launch government's economic recovery strategy. It's a response to the COVID pandemic where government took input from all major sectors. The Minster of State for Economic Development outlined the pillars of the plan:Hon. Tracy Panton, Minister of State, Trade:"This recovery plan intends to safeguard livelihoods, provide stimulus for business continuity. It is expected to support existing and new enterprises for job retention and job creation..."

PM: The Plan Should Span Administrations
And while his government only has a few months left, the PM says that he hopes a new administration would pick up the plan where his government left off: "This is not a political document and not even a current administration document. This is a national document produced by a national effort. It is my hope that any new administration will bear this well in mind."

PM Defends Durability of Plan
But, is the plan, essentially a re-thread of initiatives we've heard before? And is it too little too late? That's what we asked the PM:.. "No, it's not superficial, it's a necessary immediate urgent response to the fact that events have overtaken us, to the extent that there is repetition of some of what we've said before..."

The Golden Calf Called Tourism?
And, we also asked the Prime Minister - whether tourism - which much of the new strategy is built around - is resilient enough to form the backbone of the Belizean economy, Here's how he answered that: "Of course, tourism as an enterprise and as our mainstay is not perfect. There are some of the problems to which you alluded, in terms of there being a great deal of foreign investment in the hotel sector and foreign owners apart from repatriation doing bookings abroad and so a lot of money doesn't make it to our country. But even with that huge drawback, I repeat, tourism has been in fact an absolutely wonderful mainstay of our economy."

GOB Relaxes Foreign Exchange Regs
And, we also asked about a significant change in foreign exchange regulations that was unveiled as a part of the recovery plan.It is SI 106 signed last week, and it takes away regulatory approval from the Central Bank for certain foreign exchange transactions. The PM said it should make business easier to do: "The rationale is simply to try to produce greater ease of doing business. Principally, this obtains to land transactions. There has been a campaign on the part of the real estate dealers, the lawyers, a sustained campaign. It has been going on for a while. And we've been examining this thing, we've been in consultation with the Central Bank..."

DJ’s Go To School
When the nightclubs close, and the music stops, where do the DJ's go?Well, they've been going to DJ school!It's the brainchild of Evolution Sound's DJ Pinky, a touring music fest for DJs that last week hit a stride.And while it may look like a house party it could be the rise of a platform that gives a boost to yet another industry that's been sidelined by the global pandemic. Here's a glimpse of the afternoon I spent at Sound Check Sunday.

SSB Says Scholarships More Important Than Ever
The Social Security Board today renewed it's 19-year commitment to providing academic opportunities to the next generation. And this morning in a brief and socially distanced ceremony they awarded technical, vocational, high school, associate degree, and bachelor scholarships to 12 students in Belize City and Belmopan.

The Belize Zoo Begs for Your Help
The Belize Zoo depends heavily on the tourism traffic to fund its operational costs. And so, like other stakeholders in the tourism sector, right now, they are in deep financial distress.That's why the Zoo is hoping that tomorrow during their "Feed the Animals" telethon, Belizean donors will be able to make contributions, to allow them to continue looking after the prized animals in the zoo.They say that they've been forced to lay-off staff and cut costs to maintain operations, but you can't exactly explain a COVID "haawd time" diet to a hungry mountain cow.

Yohny And The Text Mess
Last night we told you about the text messages that shed a strange light on the blockage of the Port of Belize's main gate on Wednesday July 22nd. Tour Operator Yohny Rosado's bus blocked the gate - and now a cluster of screenshots being circulate din the media say that he wanted money, 40 thousand dollars to do it. And that money, supposedly, was being negotiated with a wealthy business interest.

LPG Lowered, Slightly
The price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which you know as butane, has gone down by a few cents. That's what the Supplies Control Unit of the Belize Bureau of Standards announced today.The new retail price for the urban areas of Belize City, Belmopan, San Ignacio, Benque Viejo Del Carmen, Orange Walk Town, Corozal Town, Dangriga, and Punta Gorda is now 96 cents per pound or $4.21 per gallon. Last month, the price was the same per pound, but 3 cents more per gallon.In the rural areas countrywide, LPG is now retailing for 98 cents per pound and $4.31 per gallon. Last month, the price was 1 cent more pound, and 3 cents more per gallon.

Channel 5

PM Weighs in on P.B.L./C.W.U. Entanglement
Late this evening, the Christian Workers Union issued a release and the news is that contrary to what the Prime Minister asserted this morning, stevedores have not ended their strike.  [...]

No Nationalization of the Port of Belize
Also this morning, the Prime Minister was asked about the nationalization of the Port which he said on Wednesday was under consideration.  According to him, that is not on the [...]

Boots to Run in Pickstock!
Turning to politics, Port Loyola area representative Anthony ‘Boots’ Martinez announced his pending retirement from electoral politics several years ago, indicating that upon completion of this five-year term, he would [...]

What’s Up With Papa Mena in Griga Dan?
As for Martinez’s ministerial colleague, Frank ‘Papa’ Mena, there is still no certainty whether he will be contesting the Dangriga constituency come November.  That’s because a petition has been launched [...]

An Economic Recovery Strategy for Belize
The economic downturn caused by COVID-19 continues to affect the business sector. The mainstay, the tourism industry, crumbled causing massive unemployment once the pandemic began to spread. Flights resume at [...]

Introducing B.C.C.I.’s New Executive Council
The biggest private sector organization, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry is celebrating one hundred years this year.  It’s a milestone for the organization that has endured the test [...]

Barbados PM Calls for United Front to Tackle the Pandemic
The guest speaker at the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s AGM on Thursday night was Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amore Mottley. PM Mottley spoke on the challenges of [...]

Yhony Rosado: “Somebody is Trying to Blackmail Me”
On Thursday, screenshots of WhatsApp conversations surfaced in respect of the chaotic incident at the Port of Belize Limited last Wednesday when striking staff members of the P.B.L. went on [...]

Yhony Rosado Severs Relationship with FECTAB
While he was on damage control mode, Rosado says that the incident at the Port is a battle between giants and the little man is being trampled. Facing a backlash [...]

PM Barrow: U.D.P. Doesn’t Wish to Postpone General Elections
A lawsuit in which government is being sued by several parties, including the Belize Peace Movement, the People’s United Party and Lord Michael Ashcroft, is presently before the Supreme Court [...]

Anna Banner Guy is the Independent Candidate in Belmopan
There’s a third standard bearer for the Belmopan constituency. She is Anna Banner Guy and she is contesting the next general elections as an independent candidate.  Guy is a well-known [...]

PM Responds to NEAB’s Concerns about Recent Judge Appointments
Senior Counsel Lisa Shoman and Professor Westmin James have been appointed to the Supreme Court bench on a one-year tenure.  Their appointments, however, have raised the ire of the National [...]

Samuel August, Guilty of Robbery
You will remember Samuel August, the former Belize City Council employee who armed himself with a backhoe in the wee hours of October twenty-ninth, 2018 and rammed it into the [...]

Jamie Patnett Charged for Murder, Gets Bail
Twenty-five-year-old Jamie Patnett, who was on remand for the March 2017 murder of eighteen-year-old Kerona Ara, was granted Supreme Court bail of thirty thousand dollars on Thursday after his attorney [...]

Reginald Pott Gets Supreme Court Bail for Murder
Reginald Pott, another man who is on remand for the murder of another young woman was also granted bail of thirty thousand dollars when he appeared before Justice Colin Williams.  Pott [...]

Jervis Valencia is Freed of Murder
Also in the court this week, Jervis Valencia was freed for a second time of a murder charge. Valencia was charged with the murder of Moses Gonguez in 2015 on [...]

S.S.B. Awards 52 Scholarships
Since 2001, the Social Security Board of Belize has given out nine hundred scholarships all to the tune of three point eight million dollars.  And for 2020, they have added [...]

U.S. Embassy Hands Over Classroom Building to San Isidro School
On Thursday, the U.S. Embassy in Belize officially handed over to the Ministry of Education a classroom building constructed through the U.S. Southern Command’s Humanitarian Assistance Programme in San Isidro [...]

Santander Had a Bumper Year for Sugar Production!
The Santander Sugar Group is reporting a bumper year in sugar cane production.  It kicked off the season towards the end of February and today the last truck was escorted [...]

Jankunu Productionz Hosts Two Nights of Comedy with “Covid Chronicles”
Are you ready for some theatre filled with laughter and excitement? Well listen up cause on August seventh and eighth at the Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, “Covid Chronicles” [...]

Amandala

Life for Mason and his accomplices
Today, William “Danny” Mason, 54; as well as Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo, were sentenced to life in prison for the beheading murder of Pastor Llewelyn Lucas, 47, of Dangriga, whose head was found in a bucket in a pickup. The five men had been found guilty of the murder in December 2019. Before sentencing the five men, Justice Antoinette Moore said that there had not previously been any murder as heinous, cruel and senseless as the murder of Lucas, that she could use to guide her in the sentencing, and that this would be the first ruling for a crime of such a particularly perverse nature.

Port withdraws request for stevedores to return to work
In a short press release dated today, Thursday, entitled “PBL withdraws request for stevedores to return to work,” the PBL said that “In a letter to the Labour Commissioner and the President of the CWU, PBL has withdrawn its request for the stevedores to resume work while they negotiate the CBAs,” and that the PBL has requested a meeting with the CWU and the Labour Department to discuss the draft staff CBA counter proposal from PBL of April 3, 2020; as well as the stevedores work hour draft proposal, and the stevedores grievance and disciplinary procedure proposal.

DFC rolls out $10 million loan for tourism stakeholders
The Government of Belize has announced that a consolidated line of credit has been secured for stakeholders in the tourism industry. This financial relief will come in the form of loans that will be administered and distributed by the Development Finance Cooperation (DFC). These funds were provided in part by the Caribbean Development Bank, which, at first, had placed restrictions on lending monies for working capital to affected businesses.

Murder at Pound Yard Bridge
William Emmanuel Rubio, a laborer of Belize City, was stabbed to death at about 7:30 last night in front of a building on Cemetery Road at the foot of the Pound Yard Bridge. Initial reports are that Rubio became involved in an altercation with another man, and during the altercation the man took out a knife and stabbed him in the chest and abdomen.

PM to intervene in PUC/BEL impasse
Recently, we reported on the Public Utilities Commission (PUC)’s move to “strong-arm” Belize Electricity Limited to sign a Power Purchase Agreement with Santander Sugar for the supply of energy to the national grid. The PUC asserted that as the sole utility regulator, they hold the responsibility to determine the terms of the agreement. BEL has said that the PUC carried out negotiations without them at the table and cited various pitfalls in the agreement.

BCCI concerned about dormant Port
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Belize’s Inflow of foreign exchange, and now the business community is concerned about further reductions in the influx of foreign exchange into the country in the wake of the dispute between the Christian Workers Union (CWU) and the Port of Belize Limited (PBL). Since Wednesday, July 22, when 36 employees were terminated at the Port via text, the port’s services have been disrupted — initially due to a shutdown as a result of security concerns after the protesters on the compound were shot with rubber bullet and tear-gassed, and subsequently due to an ongoing strike this week by the stevedores who unload the cargo ships.

Arson on Wagners Lane
One house was completely destroyed and another was gutted during a fire that occurred last night on Wagners Lane. Luckily, no one was injured, but seven persons are now homeless. The Belize City Fire Service put out the fire before it could have spread to surrounding houses. They then launched an investigation into the fire. Orin Smith, the Station Manager of the Belize City Fire Service, said that the fire was a result of arson, and it has been classified as incendiary.

Imports way down, exports way up in June 2020 – SIB
The report of the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) on external trade for June 2020 shows that in June 2020 we imported 38.4% less goods and exported 41.1% more goods, than we did in June 2019. In June 2020 we imported $103.7million worth of goods, $64.8 million less than the $168.5million worth of goods that we imported in June 2019. The SIB noted that this is the second month in a row in which merchandize imports were down by more than one-third. The SIB says that this is a reflection of “the economic downturn, reduced demand, and continued delays in accessing foreign exchange that have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Editorial: PBL masters showing little or no respect for our country
There is only one way to interpret the proposal from the receivership at the Port of Belize Ltd. (PBL) that an international mediator be hired to resolve the impasse between the company and its workers, and that is that PBL, whoever is pulling the strings, has little or no respect for the Ministry of Labor or our country. Every Belizean should bristle at this suggestion of a foreign arbitrator. We are aware that Lord Ashcroft is the owner of the Belize Bank, and that the owner of Port of Belize Ltd., Mr. Luke Espat, for reasons not yet fully explained, owed the bank money, wasn’t meeting his payments, and so the management of the port was handed over to a receivership.

Senate debates $10 million USD loan for food assistance
On Wednesday, July 29, 2020 the Senate convened to discuss a number of bills, namely: The General Revenue Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2020-2021, the Business Names Amendment Bill 2020, the Companies Amendment Bill and the Limited Liability Partnership Amendment Bill 2020. The Revenue Supplementary Appropriation Bill was discussed most extensively, as it entails the Government of Belize receiving a $10 million USD loan from the OPEC Fund for International Development, which exists to provide financial support on concessionary terms to developing nations.

CitCo helps schools prepare for the post-COVID-19 learning environment
On Tuesday, July 28, Mayor Bernard Wagner and Deputy Mayor Michael Norales, along with members of the City Council and standard bearers Allan Pollard, Jr. (Queen’s Square), Oscar Arnold (Collet) and Paul Thompson (Albert), contributed 24 high-performance RCA Voyager Pro touchscreen tablets with keyboards, along with face masks and cleaning and disinfecting products such as mops, buckets, gloves, Clorox and more to various educational institutions across Belize City. Recipients included Calvary Temple School, Queen’s Square Anglican School, YMCA and James Garbutt SDA Primary School.

How the People’s Committee (PC) took over the GWU
As a matter of fact, from the outset the GWU supported the People’s Committee (PC); its founder and only President during the seven years of its existence, Cecil Betson, having spoken at the first protest meeting. Furthermore, the association seemed mutually beneficial. In addition to having a strong organizational machinery, the GWU had in its President and in its General Secretary, H. A. Middleton, national figures. Middleton had also in the first few weeks of the nationalist upsurge attended the World Confederation of Free Trade Unions (WCFTU) in England where he was promised support by the British Trade Union Congress. The union therefore was in a position to lend legitimacy to the activities of the PC.

The GWU’s spectacular early growth
The General Workers’ Union (GWU) catered for several occupational groups and claimed a membership of 350 when it was registered in 1943. Within the next five years its membership spiralled to over 3,000. More important, it was the only urban-based organization whose influence spread to the outdistricts where it was engaged in protracted struggles with the BEC and the colonial government for the right of access to the company’s lands to unionize the workers. Their activities imbued the rural workers with a consciousness of their wretched conditions. As we shall see in the next section of the study, it was through this organization that in the rural areas the political movement in the 1950s first grouped the latent individual protest against the colonial institutions into an overt social struggle.

Governor Burns’ support of trade unionism in B. H. in 1943
The widespread tendency to see the poor industrial conditions in British Honduras as a conflict situation between the local businessmen and wage-laboring element rather than primarily between Belize, as a colony, and the foreign-owned companies, was reinforced by the intervention by the colonial government to secure labour reforms in conformity with the recommendations of the West Indian Royal Commission. Trade unions were legalized in Belize in 1941 only when this was made a condition of the Colonial and Development and Welfare Fund.

Pedal by Pedal of Weekend Warriors Tour de Santino, Sat. & Sun., July 25 & 26, 2020
My last Pedal by Pedal report was on March 15, after which Covid-19 shut us down. I am now back to report on the first major race of the Cycling Calendar since then. It just happens to be my 4th Annual Tour de Santino 2020. This is an event I started in May 2017 to celebrate my birthday, and which I labeled The International Masters Tour de Santino for riders 40 and over. However, due to the closing of our borders, I decided to have a local version for the Weekend Warriors Club instead. By the time we saddled up for Stage 1 on Saturday morning in Hattieville, 70 Weekend Warriors (WW) riders had registered. At 9:15 a.m., we left Hattieville to a nice reception by the village on our trek to St. Margaret on the Hummingbird, for a total of 54 miles.

Stanley “Rice” Robinson, Sr., stalwart defender of the legendary Mighty Avengers, passes
Our sports desk joins the football community, especially in San Ignacio/Santa Elena, in mourning the loss and expressing our condolences to the Robinson family on the passing of Stanley Robinson, Sr., one of the stalwarts of the legendary Mighty Avengers football club of the late 1960s and 1970s. “Rice” or “Timba” as he was also affectionately known, was a tower of strength and consistency on the flank defense of the Avengers in their heyday, and was a Lifetime Member of the Mighty Avengers Hall of Fame. Like a number of his past Avengers teammates, Rice was a regular fixture in recent times at the Verdes home games at Norman Broaster Stadium, the original home of the Avengers. A wake is being held tonight at his daughter’s residence in Santa Elena, and funeral services will take place tomorrow, Thursday, at 2:00 p.m. at the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

FFB appoints Dale Pelayo as Head Coach for Male Senior National Team
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) is proud to announce that Coach Dale Pelayo has been appointed as Head Coach for the Male Senior National team for the Qatar 2020 World Cup Qualifiers. Following the new format announced by Concacaf earlier this week, Belize is scheduled to play four matches, two home and away matches in October 2020, and two matches in November 2020. Dates are scheduled for 5th October, 13th October, 9th November and 17th November, 2020. The Football Federation of Belize has been meeting to develop a well thought out plan for the “A” National Team.

Please noh kik down that fence
Aha, this world, this world, my, it is reported that the lawyers who led the charge to freedom from the closet have now been exalted to positions to pass judgment on greater matters. I wouldn’t have known if I hadn’t read in the Amandala all that the NEAB churches had to say about it, and I bet the same fear that ran through my bones as I read the story ran through theirs on learning about this unbelievable decision to hire TWO, not one, TWO UNIBAM lawyers to sit as judges on the Supreme Court for a year. This would never have happened in the old Belize, not the one all of us loved so much, not the one Hon. Sedi said was better than the Belize we live in now.

Belize: Africans, Asians and Indigenous Peoples Demand Reparations
In mid-October the Belize Commission: Initiative for Justice and Reparations (BCIJR), called on Belizeans of all oppressed backgrounds to gather at the Belmopan Convention Center for the Second Annual Popular Justice and Reparations Convention. Belizeans across racial and ethnic groups have constituted the only popular reparations initiative in the Caribbean in support of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) Reparations Commission created in 2013. At this year’s convention, approximately 150 African Kriol, Garifuna, Mopan, Yucatec and Q’eqchi Mayan as well as East Indian peoples discussed the historical wrongs carried out against them by European colonial powers and what reparations means to, and for, their communities.

FROM BELIZE, WITH LOVE!
Who ignores history, repeats its mistakes. So Mr. Faber has engineered the appointment of two Gender Policy advocates to be judges of the Supreme Court of Belize. How easily tyrants forget: THE BLOOD OF MARTYRS IS THE SEED OF CHRISTIANS. Throughout the whole world, down through the centuries, the persecution of Christians by bloody Caesars helped to spread the Good News throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, eventually even to Belize!

Belize’s amended labor laws made it easy for Port to fire its workers
Dear Editor, Labor is the physical, mental and social effort used to produce goods and services. Without workers, employers could not produce goods and services and earn profits. Laborers are also consumers, so if workers are earning less, and less workers are employed, there is less economic activity, and the business community earns less revenue. In 2019, the share of agriculture in Belize’s gross domestic product was 9.56 percent; industry contributed 11.96 percent, and the services sector contributed about 65.51 percent.

Young’s Engineering addresses City Hall ceiling
Dear Editor, We write to offer clarification to an article printed in last week’s issue of your esteemed newspaper, in which, among other things, our firm was accused of “inadequate supervision” of the remodeling works that took place at City Hall. First and foremost, it should be made clear that the unfortunate incident reported on stemmed from spalling of the original floor system of this 30-year old, poorly maintained and possibly poorly constructed building, which WAS NOT TOUCHED as a part of the remodeling works that we were hired to supervise.

LOVE FM

PM praises Frank “Pawpa” Mena
Earlier in the week, we told you about a petition with over 200 signatures calling for the replacement of Dangriga area representative, Frank “Pawpa” Mena. The signatures were those of town councilors as well as registered UDP voters.

PM explains how redistricting case will affect proposed date for general elections
Prime Minister Dean Barrow’s censure of Lord Michael Ashcroft continued when the topic of the redistricting case, which is currently before the Supreme Court, came up. He noted that on top of everything, Ashcroft has also inserted himself into the political world.

San Isidro Government School receives a new building
The San Isidro Government School in Bella Vista Village, Toledo District, has received a much needed new building. The building was donated by the US Embassy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

PM questions Belize Banks acquisition of Scotiabank
The Prime Minister continued his skepticism of Lord Michael Ashcroft’s dealings in Belize by questioning the acquisition of Scotiabank by Belize Bank. He noted the various holding companies that Ashcroft used in order to acquire the bank and Port of Belize.

Santander ends harvest season for sugar cane
Santandar has ending their harvest season and they are reporting record numbers. The company has been resilient in the face of unpleasant weather conditions and the covid-19 endemic.

GOB launches Economic Recovery Strategy for Belize
Today, the Government announced its plan for economic recovery. Belize’s economy took a massive hit from COVID-19, and experienced some stagnation when businesses were forced to close down, and borders were forced to close. Several programs have already been put in place, such as the unemployment relief program, and the newly introduced loan program for tourism stakeholders.

Help is coming for the Agriculture sector
Presenting the agriculture aspect of the economic plan for Belize was Minister of Agriculture, Godwin Hulse. According to Hulse, the plan focuses on climate resilience of the agriculture sector, post COVID recovery, and the diversification of the agriculture sector.

Expansion project for Sapodilla Caye in the works to protect important reef system
The Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve will be undergoing an expansion project to protect an important reef system known as the Corona Reef, or Cayman Crown, located south of the cayes. The Corona Reef is a situation at the southwest terminus of the Cayman Trench within Belize’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve to undergo expansion project
The Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve will be undergoing an expansion project to protect an important reef system known as the Corona Reef, or Cayman Crown, located south of the cayes. The Corona Reef is situation at the southwest terminus of the Cayman Trench within Belize’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

PM responds to Michael Ashcroft concerning PBL
The Prime Minister also spoke at length about the two paged letter from Lord Michael Ashcroft. In the letter, Ashcroft pointed out that previous attempts at nationalization of other companies, such as Belize Telemedia Limited and the Companies Registries, has ended in excessive repayment by the government as well as excessive debt.

PBL staff returns to work following negotiations
The situation at Port of Belize has reached some sort of resolution as PBL workers went back to work today. This follows a meeting between the two parties that took place yesterday.

Two stevedores accuse CWU for witholding their retirement fund
Two stevedores have come forward to express their dissatisfaction with the Christian Workers Union. In a letter, the two men stated that the CWU has breached its duty for fair representation of stevedores during the...

Breaking Belize News

Armed robbery reported at grocery store in San Ignacio; several shots fired
Minutes ago armed thieves robbed 28 Supermarket on Bullet Tree road in San Ignacio. Neighbors report […]

The Belize Zoo to host “Feed the Animals” telethon tomorrow
The Belize Zoo is hosting a “Feed the Animals” Telethon tomorrow from 1 to 6 […]

PUP standard bearers lead protest at Elections and Boundaries
Contributed: Standard-bearers of the People’s United Party (PUP) in Northern Belize led a protest today in front of […]

Belize’s Economic Recovery Strategy
By Prime Minister Dean Barrow: This year our country is enduring one of the toughest challenges of its entire history […]

Eye witness flips the script, accused man walks from second murder charge
Belize City resident Jervis Valencia walked free from his second murder charge this week, after […]

Over 1,000 Americans repatriated home from Belize
The United States Embassy today issued a statement thanking United Airlines and the Government of […]

Government of Belize to expand the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve to protect important Reef Ecosystem
The Minister with responsibility for Fisheries, Omar Figueroa has signed a Statutory Instrument for the […]

Chamber hosts Centennial Annual General Meeting
The 100th Annual General Meeting of the Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry was held […]

Government of Belize discouraging international travel for public officers
The Government of Belize, as it continues to address the COVID-19 pandemic in country, is […]

PM says stevedores back to work; nationalization of Port appears to be off the table
Prime Minister and substantive Minister of Labour, Dean Barrow, has confirmed that stevedores aligned with […]

Economic recovery document “not a retread”
To suggestions that the Economic Recovery Strategy is a “retread” of previous plans that were […]

Godwin Hulse: Agriculture must build resilience, change and develop to survive
Agriculture has survived significant shocks from drought to floods to COVID-19. Minister of Agriculture Senator […]

Tracey Panton: Economic Recovery Strategy to preserve jobs and families
Minister for Trade and Investment, Tracey Taegar Panton, said the Economic Recovery Strategy is intended […]

Prime Minister honors leadership team behind Economic Recovery Strategy
Citing a recent article concerning the “black swan event” of the COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister […]

New Mexican Ambassador to Belize appointed
The Mexican Congress has ratified the appointment of Martha Ofelia Zamarripa Rivas as Ambassador to […]

Belmopan to mark 50th anniversary on Saturday
“The Garden [City] is golden!” So say organizers of Saturday’s official festivities in the capital, […]

International Organization for Migration organizes a double humanitarian charter flight for stranded migrants
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Belize organized its second humanitarian charter flight on […]

Former US presidential candidate dies after contracting COVID-19
Herman Cain, an American Republican candidate who ran for president in 2012 passed away after […]

Blogs

Delicious Lunch At Blue Water Grill and Nerding Out…Philatelically
The last day or two have been a bit grey…rains for the first time in weeks but also a teeny weeny bit of relief from a hot hot sun. A perfect time to visit our friends at Blue Water Grill – and have a nice and socially distanced lunch in town. The sun is back today… Many restaurants – especially those who rely on tourism for a bulk of their customers – are closed right now. Blue Water Grill has stayed open – starting with lunch deliveries and then opening their open beachfront patio for those eating in. To try to help out some of their employees and to use their facilities for a community feeding program that makes hot meals for those in need. The owners admit – it hasn’t always been easy. There have been a few evenings without a customer in sight. We stopped by at noon and based on the plethora of parking spots outside, I was expecting that we might dine alone.

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