We are already in the middle of the year and life keeps changing as rapidly as the Sahara Desert Dust. Perhaps in the silence brought on during the lockdown, we managed to search deep into ourselves to discover who we are and how to be better as husbands, wives, daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, employees, employers, and friends. In looking at the glass half full, if we can walk away from this difficult time being stronger and better, it was worth the time. But alas, June brings us some hope and good news coming from our Jewel that you will learn in this newsletter. There is good news around the world too so let’s enjoy life and all the blessings we have!

A huge highlight for June is Father's Day and we thank Fathers for all they do. The family unit functions wonderfully thanks to all our good Fathers and Mothers.

To help us celebrate, why not do it with food! So, with lobster season in full swing, we dedicate this month to a scrumptious classic, Lobster Thermidor seasoned with cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and grated cheese. To complement this delicacy there is nothing better to wash it down with than Belizean Rum Punch made with your favorite Belizean rum, in the “Recipe of the Month” section so check it out and cheers to love, health, and life!

In this edition, we present the latest video address to the nation given by the Prime Minister of Belize, the Rt. Hon. Dean O. Barrow broadcasted on Thursday, June 25th, 2020 announcing the re-opening of the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport effective on August 15th, 2020.

Read the usual informative monthly message from the Ambassador of Belize in Washington, DC, H.E. Daniel Gutierez, under “Ambassador’s Desk”.

In this edition, enjoy once again reading all the inspiring stories of the stellar work of Belizeans and discover what is new and exciting in the fields of science, history, real estate, and the environment:

  • Read up on the latest Memorandum of Understanding for Sustainable Tourism Development in Belize’s Protected Areas.
  • Find out what are the best places for residency and a second passport in the world.
  • Get ready for the opening of a Belizean restaurant in LA and Shanghai!
  • Check out the history of Father’s Day.
  • Discover what science says about the benefits of prayer.
  • Go back in history to learn when and how Belize got its name.
  • Experience Belize’s coral reef and ecosystems.
  • See what realtor.com says about moving to suburban areas.
  • Learn more about the life of our “Star of the Month”, Mr. Cadex Herrera, a Belizean artist we are proud to call our Star of the Month, who recently painted a mural in Minnesota in honor of George Floyd.
  • Get excited to learn about NASA’s historical launch to the International Space Station.
  • Find out about the grit and determination of Belizeans studying abroad to complete their studies despite COVID-19 on the “What’s Trending” section.

Due to COVID-19, unfortunately, several events continue to be postponed or modified; however, we still invite you to check out the section “Upcoming Events” to see the updates on each event and access some informative flyers. 

To ensure the safety of our Belizean visitors and staff, the Consulate of Belize in Florida remains closed for consular services. In the recent weeks, Florida is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases but as soon as this changes and we are comfortable with the safety of all, we will let you know about plans to reopen. In the interim, please feel free to call or email us with any questions. All email addresses and phone numbers of the Embassy, Honorary Consulates, and Consulates are provided in this edition and can be found under the "Directory of Consular Offices in the US" for your convenience.

For those of you who have not had the opportunity to visit the Consulate's office nor are familiar with the services that we offer, you may visit our website at www.belizeconsulatefla.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to receive updates about Belize, the Consulate and upcoming events.

As we update our database, and to serve you better, the Consulate of Belize in Florida continues to conduct phone calls to its constituents to confirm each's contact information. We appreciate your cooperation and support in sharing your contact information, so that you and your family can continue to be informed about services offered by the Consulate as well as get updates on Belize.

If you are aware of a Belizean residing in the United States who is making a positive impact on the lives of others while contributing to their native country, please submit their story to us so that we may feature them in our newsletter. Perhaps the Star of the Month for July could even be you!

Enjoy and share with your friends!
And remember, it is good to be Belizean!
#rememberitsgoodtobebelizean #thewaitisover #staysafe