October 2023 Vol 105

Honorary Consul's Monthly Message

Welcome to the October Newsletter!

 As we ponder on all the negativity in the world and how innocent lives are being lost every day in senseless wars, let us remind ourselves that there is still so much goodness left in the world. 

It is especially evident when in times of trouble such as these, we see the best of people who rally to the aid of those in need. While world leaders are tasked with being the custodians of a people and country and safeguarding their freedom, security, and rights, we too can play a role in peacekeeping by practicing respect, tolerance, love, and forgiveness in our daily lives.

On October 9th, Belize observed Indigenous Peoples Resistance Day, a testimony to Belize’s commitment to embracing all peoples and cultures who have made Belize their home. It was a day to celebrate the unwavering strength and resilience of indigenous communities throughout history, as well as their vibrant heritage which contributes to Belize's rich cultural diversity. Let us continue to work together to build a world in which all peoples of diverse cultures can thrive and live in peace and harmony.

Did you reserve your front seat to witness the rare annular solar eclipse experience that took place on October 14^th, 2023? If you were one of the fortunate ones, it must have been a truly spectacular experience. In Belize, witnesses say that the morning sun shone brightly and from one moment to the next, suddenly at approximately 11:00 am, darkness descended with only the ring of light that left its imprint in the dark sky until the sun once more revealed itself, a phenomenon that lasted less than ten minutes.

This astronomical event was visible in parts of Belize, Mexico, some states in the West Coast and Central and South America. The annular solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and the earth but when it’s at or near its farthest point from earth. In the event you missed it you can enjoy seeing photos taken by a friend who had the privilege of witnessing it in Belize. 

The Prime Minister of Belize, the Hon. John Briceño, joined other CARICOM leaders in Ottawa, Canada at the first annual Canada/CARICOM summit, hosted by the Prime Minister of Canada, the Honorable Justin Pierre James Trudea PC MP.

PM Briceño then ventured to the Consulate’s neck of the woods, Miami to hold meetings with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA).

PM Briceño also led a high-level delegation to include the Hon. Anthony Mahler, the Hon. Eamon Courtenay, the Hon. Christopher Coye, the Hon. Michel Chebat, the Hon. Orlando Habet and His Worship Mayor Bernard Wagner. The primary focus was to discuss crucial aspects related to the future development of cruise tourism in Belize. 

The PM then met with members of the diaspora at a lively social event in Miami, Florida; after which he made his way to Washington, D.C. where members of the diaspora of DC had the opportunity to meet and greet the PM at a reception hosted by the Embassy of Belize in Washington, D.C.  While in DC, he held meetings at the Department of Homeland Security and various members of the United States Congress before making his way to New York City where he met with the President of the United Nations General Assembly, Dennis Francis of Trinidad, and Tobago.

And while on the home front, the well-oiled machinery of the government continued churning its good works as you will read under “GOB Movers and Shakers”.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation soared high and hosted Salvatore Scacchitano, President of the International Civil Aviation Organization while the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs hosted a four-day forum called the Belize Social Protection Summit.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology began the distribution of 5,000 Chromebooks donated by the Republic of China (Taiwan). Meanwhile, the Belize Fisheries Department and WCS Belize collaborated on an effort to promote sustainable fishing practices and safeguard Belize’s beautiful coastline and rich biodiversity of which we are so proud. 

At the same time, the Ministry of Agriculture was busy at work with many things including working together with the Ministry of Tourism on linking Pitahaya and Pitahaya Bi-Product Producers to the Tourism Market in San Pedro Town, Ambergris.

Be sure to check out our other news sections, where we highlight Belize’s moves on the global stage, exciting new technologies helping to make Belize an eco-friendlier country, and yet another award for the Belize Tourism Board. Read about the highlights on the Miami Carnival weekend, where they celebrated Belizean and Caribbean heritage all weekend long!

In this edition, we shine a spotlight on Madeline Dyer, this month’s Star of the Month, who has recently authored a children's book and is actively engaged in supporting the welfare of her fellow Belizeans through charitable donations. Madeline is immersed in a variety of pursuits, such as working towards her associate degree in medical science, writing a second book, and exploring her artistic side projects. We hope you enjoy reading her story. #belizeansdogreatthingswhereevertheygo

Here at the Consulate of Belize in Florida, we are in full swing in autumn, while at the same time anticipating the upcoming celebrations for Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19th, so we will include a recipe that reminds us of both the change in season and the Garifuna Settlement Day holiday. For the Recipe of the Month, the special dish down south is Hudut, a comforting and warming coconut milk-based fish stew slowly cooked with the traditional root vegetables. 

And we give a nod to this season by including a Belizean dessert, stewed pumpkin”, found under the “Street Food Series” section, made with autumn’s star ingredient, the Pumpkin!

Patience is required because this delicacy must be cooked slowly with Belizean brown sugar and allspice seeds resulting in a delectable syrupy treat that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Some like it drenched in Pet Milk (you know who you are).

As always, don't miss our various sections in the newsletter such as “Tidbits”, “Belizeanism of the Month”, “Landmark Beauty of the Month “and other interesting sections to get the inside scoop on all the wonderful things happening in Belize.

#itsgoodtobebelizean

Thank you for reading this newsletter. Enjoy and share with your family and friends!

And remember, it is good to be Belizean!

#rememberitsgoodtobebelizean #thewaitisover #staysafe #Belizeansdogreatthingswherevertheygo

Warm wishes,

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Attended the Opening of Transparent BPO's Seaside 2 Center

Hon. John Briceño visited Belize City to attend the opening of Transparent BPO's Seaside 2 center. Transparent BPO has been a key player in Belize's booming BPO industry, currently employing 1,500 workers with plans to add an additional 500 jobs in 2024. Read More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Attended the First Canada/CARICOM Summit

Hon. John Briceño met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada and fellow Caribbean leaders for the first annual Canada/CARICOM Summit in Ottawa. The summit discussed issues such as climate resiliency, regional security, and trade and investment. Read More

Cruises are Becoming a Vital Part of Belize's Travel Industry.

Our group of Ministers and I had a meeting with executives from every cruise line and operation in Miami. Maintaining and fostering that vital connection with all cruise operators is in the best interests of our nation. We are still dedicated to finding those advancements and solutions that will support cruise tourism's continuous expansion and Belize's status as a major travel destination. Read More

Establishing Contact with our Washington, DC, Diaspora Community

It was a great chance to meet Belizeans and students from Belize who are studying here during the event that took place in Washington, DC, yesterday. Through our diplomatic missions, we have attempted to enhance both the outreach to our communities and the support services provided. Read More

Celebrating International Day of the Girl

H.E. Mrs. Rossana Briceño drew on her experience to inspire the girls and young women of Belize at the Adolescent Girls Town Hall in honor of International Day of the Girl. She delivered a message of hope and motivation, encouraging them to dream big and pursue their dreams relentlessly. Read More

Belize Social Protection Summit

H.E. Rossana Briceño attended the Belize Social Protection Summit 2023 on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This year's theme advocates for universal social protection, with a focus on society's most vulnerable members, including those living in poverty. Learn More

OAS - SEDI Language Cooperation Program

The Language Cooperation Program offers citizens of OAS Member states the chance to learn English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, starting with Spanish for Caribbean states. It includes training and certification for Spanish teachers. Space is limited, and registration is available on CooperaNet. Learn More

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño Meets with Members of the Belizean Diaspora in the United States

During his trip to the United States, Prime Minister the Hon. John Briceño met with the Belizean Diaspora in Washington D.C. and in Miami, FL. Joining him were Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Eamon Courtenay; Minister of Tourism and the Diaspora Hon. Anthony Mahler; Minister of Public Utilities and Logistics Hon. Michel Chebat; Mayor of Belize City His Worship Bernard Wagner; and His Excellency Ambassador Stuart Leslie.

Consulate of Belize in Florida

"House Keeping Business"

Belizean Diaspora in the USA

Belize Business Directory

USA Database



Here at the Consulate, we continue to work diligently in updating our database by calling members of the Belizean Diaspora and asking for their most recent contact information. This is to ensure we are able to share upcoming events, new services, and business opportunities in a timely manner. We appreciate your cooperation and support in sharing your contact information. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions.

Market your Business in our Consulate's Website

The Consulate's Belize Business Directory is new and improved!

The Directory's objective is to promote Belizean businesses in the US and in Belize. If you own a business or know of a Belizean who does and would like to publish it on our website, please send us an email with your contact information so that we can add it to our Belizean Business Directory.

Belize Embassy, Mission and Consulate's

Contact Information

Annular Solar Eclipse Visible from Belize

On the morning of October 14th, Belize had the pleasure of witnessing an annular solar eclipse! This somewhat rare event could best be seen from the northern half of the country. An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon orbits in front of the Sun, leading to daytime darkness and an effect the Mayans referred to as the "Ring of Fire". Not to worry if you missed this one: another eclipse will be visible in Belize in April 2024. The image above was taken from Belize City.

Tourism Tidbits

Belize Tourism Board Wins Silver

The Belize Tourism Board has won Silver for the 2023 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards in the category of 'Caribbean-Adventure Destination' for the Grab Life in Belize Campaign! The Grab Life FPV campaign drone video was done in collaboration with Johnny FPV, and highlights different aspects of Belize, including the Barrier Reef, Maya sites, and Caye Caulker. Congratulations to the Belize Tourism Board on this amazing achievement! Read More

Trade and Investment Tidbits

Trade Licensing

The updated Trade Licensing Bill promises to strengthen village councils' governance by providing additional funds from trade licenses for infrastructure development. Fees will be assessed every three years, promoting efficiency and predictability. A ten percent ceiling and floor have been introduced to avoid overcharging businesses. Mobile licenses will be established for nationwide businesses, simplifying application. Read More

Cultural Tidbits

How the Leader of Belize’s First All-Female Cooperative is Keeping Maya Traditions Alive

The presence of the Maya in Belize dates back three millennia, with time-honored traditions such as pottery and embroidery rooted in rural communities such as San Antonio. Today, Timotea Mesh is working with her neighbors to revive and preserve Indigenous cultural practices — and to share them with travelers. Read More

Madeline Dyer born November 3^rd in Belize City to Jerilyn Spencer and Charles Tucker Madeline has four additional siblings who currently reside in Belize, at a very tender age Madeline lost her father. After this loss, writing became an outlet for Madeline, opening new doors for her.

“Growing up in Belize my mother had a system that taught us about discipline. Monday to Friday, the only TV we saw was the news, after which, it was time for bed. Weekends however, were different. Saturdays after church my mom would take us to the park where at the time, we used to watch a movie on the wall at BTL park. On Sundays after chores and lunch my mom would use the remainder of that day to prepare us for the up and coming week, going through our homework, sign off on it and leave notes for our teachers.” 

After the passing of her father, Madeline struggled academically during her years at Holy Redeemer Primary school but a quick shift into a new academic environment would be the turning point in her life. While attending Ephesus SDA school, Madeline had the honor of meeting and preparing a speech for the Governor General of Belize, Sir Calvin Young who donated computers to the school's newly constructed computer lab.

While still in primary school, Madeline chose to use her summers wisely as she signed up in 2003 to be a teacher's assistant at the Vacation Bible School a program led by Mrs. Cindy and Francine Jones. This program enabled Madeline to assist in teaching younger students how fun reading can be and also to prepare her for future work.

In 2004 and 2005 Madeline received awards from the House of Culture in partnership with N.I.C.H for her poems where she read a few out loud to the attendees at a program called Poets “R” Us.

During the summer of 2006 Madeline was invited to attend Ebenezer Methodist Primary school to a workshop held by Belize Family Life Association where she completed her certification in Peer Education this certification would be useful. She was invited to the Wake-Up Belize Morning show by Moose Hide.

While still attending school Madeline, admired her brother Erron Golanche a beloved Belizean artist, graphic designer and skilled beatbox player who was tragically taken from the family at the hands of a drunk driver. Madeline recalls always following behind him and older brother Darlon Spencer who nicknamed her smallie. Together the two brothers protected and guided their sister on the right path attending art classes. “I remember as a teen wanting to hang out with friends to goof off and my brother would say “the time you spend doing this could be time spent perfecting your artistry.” So those sentiments helped to keep me focused though I had no idea where I was going.”

Wanting more out of life, Madeline made the decision to leave Belize and moved to the United States while she volunteered with America Cares program to remove graffiti from school walls, chairs, and paint beautiful murals. She then later pursued and completed her certification in Social Science at the Henry George School of Social Science in 2009.

Madeline’s primary school teacher states “I have known Madeline for over ten years both as an educator and a church sister. I have witnessed her growth and development. This development came not only in the area of intellectual achievements and leadership, but in maturity as well, she is respectful and humble.” Gail Hendricks Brown.

One summer on July 4th, Madeline met and soon married her husband Mason S.D.Dyer on December 14th and welcomed their daughter Meeka D. Dyer “ it was at birth that I felt the desire to protect my child at any cost and even now that love for me as a mother has not changed.” says Madeline as she reflects back to that time.

While attending college, Madeline attended numerous workshops and completed certifications in KAS Tries where she was awarded for leadership skills, then in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program, and FEMA to name a few. This year Madeline received two senate awards from the President Advisory Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

In February of 2023 Madeline took on a new title as author one in which she admits never thought of happening “ when I wrote the first book, it was my way of telling my daughter how much I love her. As a mother I want my daughter to know that there is nothing under God's green earth that will ever shake my love for her, so while I was tired and exhausted with school, she gave me the courage to push through my academics and be who I am today.”

Madeline’s hope as a writer is to redefine what mixed families look like through her other publications such as "My Mom the Cook" and "What is Christmas", a book about an afro Latina family. As an individual continuing a Medical Science education Madeline hopes to create additional science-based material for young readers not only to encourage reading but also to spike the interest of those who might want to be in the science field.

In January 2010 Madeline continued her advocacy for children by starting a four (4) week program titled Smarten up with poetry writing for children and teens the program attracted over fifty (50) attendees “Madeline demonstrates a high sense of purpose, professionalism, tenacity, reliability, diligence, and enthusiasm. She was able to work independently and appreciated teamwork. Her contributions significantly provided enriched experiences for the Library’s Juvenile and young patrons.” Paschal Ugoji MLIS; Beauchamp Branch Library Syracuse.

After the loss of her brother Madeline, saw all the community service work her brother was a part of and decided to continue her brother’s legacy by starting the nonprofit "The Adventist Bridge" this program receives funding through fundraising and advocating for the next generation and for the past five years have assisted hundreds of students with school supplies, tuition relief, and a feeding program that are available at some schools.

“This program has been a blessing to me because I see little reflections of myself inside each of the applicants, though currently we are only available to assist students who are in primary school. I feel a sense of accomplishment when I receive a letter from the school that these children are in high school.”



“My hope at the end of all of this is to open conversations with those in power of change. I hope to be a part of the movement that many parents need as it pertains to Autism, ADD, ADHD and Dyslexia. I hope that my chapter will end in this life with a rippling effect to last for many years after I am gone.” 

Special thanks go out to my aunts and uncles who helped to encourage me during my years as a child to be expressive, to my grandparents Madeline Tucker Sr, George Myvette, Grammy, and Aunt Suzie who helped to pave the way for me when I felt defeated by life's circumstances.

 We are proud to call you our Star of the Month!

#Belizeansdogreatthingswherevertheygo

Landmark Beauty of the Month

Emilio Ahmad & Sons Ltd.

Serving Corozal since 1950!

#Belizeisbeautiful

Fool-fool dog bark after moonlight

Literally: The foolish dog barks at moonlight.

Meaning: It is foolish to be over-suspicious.

• Ministry of Civil Aviation Hosts International Civil Aviation Organization President Salvatore Sciacchitano Read More

• The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology has commenced the distribution of 5,000 Chromebooks donated by the Republic of China (Taiwan) Learn More

• The Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples' Affairs hosted the first of a four-day forum called the Belize Social Protection Summit Read More

• The Belize Fisheries Department (BFD) and WCS Belize (WCS) joined forces in a collaborative effort to promote sustainable fishing practices and safeguard Belize's marine resources Read More



• The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise is partnering with the Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations to link local Pitahaya farmers and bi-product producers to the Tourism Market in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Read More

• Belize Advocates for World Bank’s International Development Association Membership Read More

• EU Adds Belize, Seychelles, Antigua and Barbuda to Tax Havens List Read More

• Belizean Troops to Join UN Mission in Haiti Read More



• Belize and Taiwan Celebrate 112th Anniversary of Double Ten Read More

• Taiwan’s Far Eastern Memorial Hospital’s Medical Mission Provides Service to Patients at KHMH Read More

• Team Belize Wins Silver at FIRST Global Challenge 2023 Read More

• New Ancestral Maya Quarries and Ground Stone Tool Workshops Discovered in Belize Read More



• The Miami Carnival Weekend was a Success, with Numerous Belizean and Caribbean Events in South Florida Read More

• World Food Day 2023: ‘Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind’ Read More



• How To Experience Garifuna Culture When Visiting Belize Read More

• Belize Joins Growing List of Countries Committed to the Kigali Amendment Read More

• Belize to Launch Project to Make Biofuel From Seaweed Clogging Coasts Read More

• Belize Borrows $14 million to Promote Sustainable Growth in Fisheries Industry Read More



• Government of Belize and OCEANA Agree on Amendment to Referendum Act and Consultations on Petroleum Exploration Read More

• CARICOM Seeks to Decrease Food Import Bill by 25% by 2025: Belizean Milagro Matus Read More

• Belize Boosts Financial Protection with New Insurance Act Read More



• Belize Among Fastest-Growing Economies in Caribbean, Says Minister of State Read More

• Check Out Belize Banana Fibers, An Amazing Belizean Business for Accessories and Interior Design Needs Read More

• Belize Unveils New Insurance Act to Improve Financial Protection Read More

• Belize Takes Lead in Early Childhood Curriculum: Empowering Teachers for a Sustainable Future Read More

• Health Stakeholders in Belize Attend Training to Enhance Emergency Response Read More

• “Ombuds Day:” Office of the Ombudsman Opens Doors to Serve the General Public Read More

• Taiwan gives $1.5 Million for National Assembly Renovation Read More

• Are You Interested in a Scholarship to Complete a Masters Degree in Marine Science? This May be for You! Read More

• Belize Tops Charts as the Go-To authentic Caribbean Experience Read More

• Belize Dominates Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards for Top Resorts in Central America Read More



• Margaritaville Hosts Grand Opening Ceremony for Belize Resort Read More

• Luxury Travel Magazine Connoisseur Circle Features Belize Read More

Hudut

Ingredients

• 4 green plantains, mashed
• 2 ripe plantains, mashed
• 2 medium size fish, typically red snapper
• 2 cans of coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 handful of okra
• a touch of fresh cilantro and fresh oregano
• salt and pepper to taste

Process:

Clean, core, and season fish with the salt and pepper and partially fry then set aside.

Sauté the onions and bell peppers for a few minutes then add the coconut milk and water, stir then add the fish. Let it set for a few minutes until it starts heating up. At this point you will need to constantly stir milk with a spoon – do not stir the fish but keep the milk in constant movement with the spoon. The milk will start to curdle if you do not maintain the constant motion. You can turn fish after one side is cooked. Let the soup continue boiling and bubble until the fish is cooked and soup is thickened. Taste for flavor, add salt and pepper to taste. 5 minutes before you turn off the stove, add the okro to the soup.

Peel and cut plantains. Each plantain should be cut in three or four pieces. Boil the green plantains first in 8 cups of water. After they are about half way cooked, add the half ripe plantains. Let all plantains boil until they are fully cooked. Remove from water and let them cool. Mash both plantains and form into balls and serve with the Hudut. Enjoy!

Belizean Stewed Pumpkin (Dulce de Calabaza)

Ingredients:

• A large (10lbs.) dried pumpkin (squash)
• 4 lbs. brown sugar
• A dozen (12 allspice seeds

September 2023, VOL. 104. Read More

August 2023, VOL. 103 Read More

July 2023, VOL. 102 Read More

June 2023, VOL. 101 Read More

May 2023, VOL. 100 Read More

April 2023, VOL. 99 Read More

March 2023, VOL. 98 Read More

February 2023, VOL. 97 Read More

January 2023, VOL. 96. Read More

December 2022, VOL. 95 Read More

November 2022, VOL. 94 Read More

October 2022, VOL. 93 Read More

Prime Minister Briceño's Latest Statement on the ICJ

On September 26, as Prime Minister Briceno addressed the Protocolary Session of the (OAS), he reiterated the important role the organization has played in not only for the territorial dispute between Guatemala and Belize but in relations among all Member States.

I emphasized our hope for a peaceful solution to the Guatemala Belize matter currently at the ICJ, where Belize is allowed to maintain the integrity of all its borders.