In Punta Gorda, the Warasa Garifuna drum school, founded by Ronald Raymond McDonald. A former performer with the Belize National Dace company is preserving Garifuna culture through music. McDonald, a passionate musician and educator, teaches drumming, dancing, and drum-making, emphasizing that drumming is a form of storytelling, history, and identity. the school offers interactive lessons...
On May 24, 2025, the Big Falls Eco Warriors took part in a water quality training led by Ya’axche, collecting microbe samples and measuring depth, width, pH, and salinity of the Rio Grande River. Eleven youths ages 12 to 20 participants, working in groups to create presentations on improving the local watershed.
The Belize Fisheries Department has officially announced the closure of the Queen Conch fishery as of May 25, 2025. The department reminds all fishers and the public that during this closed season, possession of conch meat is strictly prohibited and will be considered illegal. Authorities warn that anyone found in possession of conch meat during...
TIDE, the Vector Control Unit of the Toledo Community Hospital, and other local organizations came together for a major cleanup initiative in Indianville. The goal: to remove water-holding trash and debris that could become mosquito breeding grounds with the onset of the rainy season. Armed with gloves, bags, a truck, and a trailer, the dedicated...
Jeremy Enriquez, Chairman of the Board at TIDE, and Executive Director Leonardo Chavarria recently attended PACT’s Award Ceremony celebrating its Conservation Investment Strategy 2.0. Through this initiative, PACT will provide $350,000 each over three years to support three of TIDE’s key protected areas: Paynes Creek National Park, Port Honduras Marine Reserve, and the Sapodilla Cayes...
The Chocolate Festival of Belize kicked off with great excitement—and quickly turned even more intense when a scheduling clash arose with the Punta Gorda Town Council (PGTC), which had planned a concert for the same weekend. Despite the initial tensions, both sides came together, resolved their differences, and moved forward with their respective events. In...
In less than 24 hours, all roads will lead to the highly anticipated International Wine and Chocolate Night at the Copal Tree Rum Pavilion. This beloved event has grown into one of the biggest festivals in Belize, drawing crowds from across the country to Punta Gorda.
An impressive garden located in PG town, The Zetina’s family demonstrates the possibility of growing what you eat while generating income from produce cultivated in your own yard. We will continue to highlight exceptional gardens in our town. If you have an outstanding garden that you would like to share with the public, please contact...
This week, Belizeans across the country are celebrating Teacher’s Week. In Toledo, the People’s National Party has issued a statement recognizing all teachers, particularly those who have put their names forward as candidates for the party. Among them are Mr. Marcel Palma, who achieved a record number of votes, as well as teachers Deborah Borland,...
Robert Rolle, is a graduate from Chaney University, retired, and now living in Punta Gorda. Rob, or ‘Big Fella’ as he is locally known, is an author, and for Mother’s Day, we want to highlight his latest publication entitled “Mommy’s Home.” This book is more than just a biograph it is a tribute to all...
A community partnership is helping bring new life to the entrance of Forest Home as the village council teams up with Naledo Belize to restore the village sign with a fresh coat of paint. This sign creates a welcoming first impression for residents and visitors approaching or passing through forest home village.
Last week, major concern was raised across the country following the detection of a case of measles in the Toledo District. In response, health authorities swiftly activated emergency measures to contain the potential spread of the disease. We can confirm that additional suspected cases have been reported. Among them is a student from Toledo Community...
The National Garifuna Council Punta Gorda Branch held its election yesterday at the Garifuna Cultural Center in Punta Gorda. Following welcome remarks by outgoing President Mr. James Lino, and the presentation of the Treasurer’s Report by the outgoing treasurer, nominations were made and votes were cast. The results are as follows: President: Therese Aleman Vice...
A few weeks ago, there was an alleged kidnapping involving the alcalde of Indian Creek Village. The incident has raised several concerns, as shortly after the alcalde went missing, his supporters reportedly attacked the home of the village chairman. In recent months, tensions have been escalating between alcaldes and village chairpersons in several Maya communities....
On Friday April 24th, the University of Belize Toledo Campus was filled with students from the Belmopan Campus. The debate club from Punta Gorda challenged their colleagues from Belmopan on the topic: should UB ban student use of generative AI? The debate was highly interactive, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. In the end, the affirmative...
