2024-11-15 - Channel 5 Belize

Open Your Eyes Morning Show Celebrates 16th Anniversary

Tonight, we have a story that’s close to the heart of the Channel Five team. We’re celebrating the sixteenth anniversary of our morning talk show, Open Your Eyes. Since 2009, Open Your Eyes has been bringing educational and entertaining segments to viewers across Belize. As we mark this special occasion, we look back at how the show has evolved over the past sixteen years. Here’s News Five’s Britney Gordon with the story.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

This morning, viewers of the Open Your Eyes talk show were treated to a festive celebration with cake and champagne as the hosts marked the show’s sixteenth anniversary. Open Your Eyes first aired in 2008, with the current Channel 5 CEO, Marleni Cuellar, as the original host. She shared her journey and experiences as one of the show’s pioneers, reflecting on how far they’ve come.

Marleni Cuellar, C.E.O., Channel 5

“In 2008, when the show was launched, I came on board full time at channel five primarily as a host and it was an interesting time. The CEO at that time, Amalia Mai, had the vision to be able to create a morning show, a morning television show for Channel 5 or News 5 program as always has been such a important part of the daily conversation in Belize, but we felt we needed to have a different element, something that allowed us to have deeper conversations. That allowed us to be able to look at different aspects of culture and experience and life in Belize and to do a fantastic television production because we know we have a really great team here capable of doing that So that was the vision back in 2008 something positive something motivational and most importantly something informational.”

After fourteen years on the show, Cuellar stepped away from the spotlight to take on other roles within the company. But the show still needed a vibrant personality. That’s when news anchor Sabreena Daly was invited to join. She shared with us what it’s been like stepping into this exciting new role.

Sabreena Daly, Host, Open Your Eyes

“So I’ve been a part of Open Your Eyes as a host for about a little bit over a year. And honestly, the only thing I can say is it’s been such a learning curve. Of course, you would know that my involvement primarily was in news as an anchor, as a feature writer. But being invited over to the morning show was different because obviously I have to wake up earlier in the morning. But for me, it was a learning experience because I get to have these extensive conversations that would normally be controlled by the news cycle, of course, the writing stories. But I get to engage with these persons that we are interviewing. Not only that, I get to learn a lot more. I have to do research. It’s really critical that the host does research, so that we’re able to know, one, the type of questions to ask, but also know exactly what our viewers are looking for as well.”

Daly credits her growth in the role to her mentors, Marleni Cuellar and fellow host Isani Cayetano. Other familiar faces on the team include Paul Lopez and April Martinez, who each bring their unique voices to the show. Behind the scenes, there’s OYE producer Viannie Reyes, who has been working her magic for about three years. She gave us a glimpse into her role as producer, sharing what it takes to keep the show running smoothly.

Viannie Reyes, Producer, Open Your Eyes

“It’s definitely not a one man show. It’s a show that consists of quite a team that I have here and I’m grateful for the team that I have. It takes preparation, dedication and commitment to make a production successful as open your eyes. I do believe that gathering segments, not only just here in Belize City, but it comes from all over the country, depending on the topics that we have. We have to work two weeks in advance, sometimes three, to plan different segments. We need to get creative on topics, educational topics, informative topics that we do believe Belizeans would enjoy to hear and to listen to.”

Just this year, Open Your Eyes received a Special Mention at the Caribbean Broadcasting Awards. Cuellar attributes this to the consistent quality the show has maintained over the past sixteen years.

Marleni Cuellar

“We have a standard that was set from the beginning. That we ensure that we get guests who are well versed and understanding of different topics. That our hosts are as prepared as they can be for conversations, that we ensure that our audience have learned something new or understand something better or have been able to see a different perspective than they have seen before. And I think that’s a standard that we’ve carried through all these years and I’m very proud of that.”

As the show continues to grow, the team promises more meaningful conversations with guests and entertaining segments but this time, bigger and better. Britney Gordon for News Five.

Belize’s Halima Hoy Takes the Miss Universe Stage

The pressure is on for Belize’s own Halima Hoy as she gets ready to take the Miss Universe stage for the finals on Saturday. This year’s pageant, held in Mexico City, will see women from all over the world competing for the crown. As the big day approaches, we caught up with her Belizean support team in Mexico City to hear how they’re feeling as the excitement builds.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

The Miss Universe 2024 Pageant is underway, and people around the world are eagerly watching their contestant, hoping for a win. This year, Belizean beauty, Halima Hoy, is shining on the big stage. We caught up with Destinee Arnold, the National Director of Miss Universe Belize, for an update on how the competition is going so far.

Destinee Arnold, National Director, Miss Universe Belize

“I am just elated with all of the support that we have been getting from our countrymen, and I am so proud of Halima for continuing to fight that good fight and leaving her all on that stage. It is my job to make sure that she is well prepared and putting her best foot forward during the competition and not pageant night to be her moral support to be there for her in times of need to provide that insight. Of course, I will be reviewing her performance from last night and helping her work out any kinks that I noticed. And we are just going to continue to fight and push forward so that we finish off stronger.”

Also joining Hoy in Mexico is her husband, Arthur Hoy. He feels a wave of emotion as he watches his wife’s hard work finally pay off.

Arthur Hoy, Halima’s Husband

“Her job was Monday to Sunday, and it even took her away from Houston where we currently reside and she was living in Belize. So for the past couple of months my wife was for Belize and she still is Belize, but we’re in a great mental space. We are so proud of her. Her performance last night was very emotional for us. We, as a, with her, I was sitting with her team and we all got teary eyed when she came out because she looked so beautiful. She performed and she really made us proud.”

Despite the overwhelming love and support, Hoy and her team have faced some accusations. In a now-deleted Instagram post, they were accused of paying for Hoy’s placement in the pageant. Arnold finds these accusations to be completely unfounded.

Destinee Arnold

“For me, it’s honestly quite laughable that they would think that we would pay for placement. Pageantry is not a cheap venture, and we don’t get into pageantry Hoping to make money. It’s definitely a passion project, but we’re trying to change that perspective. We’re not trying to continue to allow pageantry to be a money pit. And one thing that I love about the new Miss universe organization, they want their national directors to contribute. In their ventures and their Miss Universe products, and that’s what we’re doing.”

She explains that the goal of the Miss Universe Belize franchise is to grow the industry and create new opportunities for Belizeans.

Destinee Arnold

“We are trying to introduce the Miss Universe projects in our country of Belize so that we bring in that that pageantry industry, because it’s a very lucrative industry. If you play your cards that’s not paying for placement. That’s being smart. That’s bringing another economic revenue to our country. That’s creating jobs. It’s creating a product. And if you cannot join in the celebration or join in the work to bring that to police, then, I’m okay with you not sitting at the table with us.”

On stage, Hoy unveiled her stunning national costume, a beautiful tribute to Belize’s Mayan roots. Arnold hopes that Belizeans can set aside the negativity and continue to shower Hoy with love and support as she strives to make Belize proud.

Destinee Arnold

“You can go to the choicely app and for her there is a fan vote for the top thirty, or you can just share her pictures, comment on the miss universe post that has Halima on it with your flag. Sending Halima sweet messages that are encouraged her because we are the fuel that drives her when she’s on stage. So we have to keep that energy going.”

Britney Gordon for News Five.

The Art of Ceramic Pottery

People all over the world love ceramics, not just for their practical uses but also as a powerful way to express themselves. Pottery holds a special place in many cultures. From ancient times to today’s modern designs, this craft has become a timeless art form that crosses all borders. In Belize, a country rich in cultural heritage, handcrafted pottery beautifully showcases this legacy. While exploring local artisans, we stumbled upon Cecilia Ceramics—a business that masterfully combines traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity. At the heart of this vibrant collection is Victoria Bedran, whose unique approach breathes new life into this ancient art. Here’s her story.

Sabreena Daly, Reporting

In Belize, our love for clay pottery goes way back to the ancient Maya civilization. For the Maya, pottery wasn’t just practical—it was a powerful cultural and spiritual symbol. They crafted beautifully intricate pieces for cooking, storage, and ceremonies, often decorating them with detailed carvings and meaningful symbols. Victoria Bedran, inspired by this rich history, wanted to connect the past with the present. After studying pottery at university, she came back to Belize with a passion to share her modern techniques and knowledge. She blends the ancient art form with her own contemporary creativity, bringing a fresh twist to this timeless craft.

Victoria Bedran, Owner, Cecilia Ceramics

“I went to school in England, that’s when I discovered different media, about collage, clay, plaster molds, glass, and all sorts of woodworking. I went into all of those media, and I found out that clay was best suited for me, and I loved it. I loved how you can work with earth, water, fire, air, like all of the elements of the earth to create one piece. I’ve always wanted to be an artist. I loved art my whole life. So when I discovered ceramics, I fell in love more with it. And I wanted to bring that to Belize, because I never really experienced clay. I know the Mayans use clay, but I wanted to bring a different part of it here in Belize. I also wanted to be a teacher, so the teaching thing was part of that too.”

Pottery, like many art forms, offers a therapeutic way to express and reconnect with oneself. For Bedran, pottery became her sanctuary. After realizing that teaching and the typical nine-to-five grind weren’t her calling, she returned to her craft and rediscovered her passion. This sparked the creation of her own business, Cecilia Ceramics, where she could fully embrace her love for pottery and turn it into a thriving creative outlet.

Victoria Bedran
“You know, sometimes I don’t even feel like an entrepreneur. I just feel like I’m somebody doing what they love and I get paid for it sometimes. It’s a passion of mine and I enjoy sharing it with other people and seeing their face being happy with what I’ve made makes me feel great. It is very therapeutic, sometimes stressful, but mostly therapeutic. Making, getting a lump of clay and making anything out of your mind that you can do, the possibilities are endless. So, it’s just the thought of sitting down and just creating something that comes to mind or a vision or something on Pinterest you’ve always wanted and can’t afford, you could just do it out of clay. Even when you’re on the wheel, that motion of spinning and everything in the center and you’re just in the zone, it’s sort of relaxing for me.”

The process starts with raw clay mixed with water to create ‘slip,’ a thin, sticky mixture. This slip is passed through a sieve to remove any impurities, then spread on a plaster slab to dry slightly, making it easier to handle. Once it reaches the perfect consistency, the clay is ‘wedged,’ much like kneading dough. Today, we watched as Victoria expertly prepped her clay, working it as if she were kneading a loaf of bread. Next, the clay is shaped on a potter’s wheel, with water helping to mold it into the desired form. This is one of the most enjoyable stages—I even got to try my hand at the wheel! After shaping, the piece is left to dry for about a week, reaching the ‘leather-hard’ stage. At this point, the clay becomes firm enough for trimming and refining, allowing for additional details like handles or decorative elements to be added, enhancing the piece’s final appearance.

Victoria Bedran
“After it’s dried to bone dry, I’ll put it in the kiln and it will get fired for 12 hours.”

Sabreena Daly

“And we are currently firing some items today.”

Victoria Bedran

“Yes, This is a homemade gas kiln that I bought. And we are currently firing the first set of bisque firing, it’s called. So that’s whenever the clay turns into ceramics. Right now we’re candling at below 100 degrees Celsius. I candle it for five hours just to make sure all the moisture is out of the clay before I start turning up the heat because if I turn up the heat and there’s still moisture in the clay it will explode.”

Victoria carries on the tradition of the ancient Mayans, placing small “kiln gods” by the kiln door to protect her pottery, a practice believed to prevent cracking or explosions during firing. Inside the ceramic oven are charming trinket trays and additional commissioned items.

Sabreena Daly
“Now, these items on display went through the same process you just described. I want to get a look at these, though. These are so adorable. Look at that. You said something really funny that your customers would tell you.”

Victoria Bedran

“They don’t need a bottle stopper because they drink the whole bottle. But I said it would be good for gifts.”

Sabreena Daly

“That’s really funny. But I love the detail. This literally has a roughness like the tentacle.”

Victoria Bedran
“I do markets around Belize. I go with Market on the Go and Wonderland. So it’s mostly in San Ignacio, Belmopan night markets; I go to Placencia sometimes and then I also post on my social media about new products I make. My social media is Cecilia’s Ceramics.”

For Bedran, handcrafting each ceramic piece is a true labor of love, with every detail shaped with passion and care. It’s this connection to her work that brings her so much joy. Yet, her greatest hope is that the joy she feels in creating her pieces is passed on to those who bring them into their homes, adding not just beauty and warmth, but a personal touch that makes each piece feel like a special part of their story. Looking on the Bright Side, I’m Sabreena Daly.

DOE Urges Businesses in High-Risk Areas to Prepare for Chemical Management During Storms

The Department of the Environment (DOE) is calling on businesses that store chemicals in high-risk areas to closely monitor weather conditions and follow advisories from the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) as stormy weather approaches.

The DOE warns that industrial chemicals, pesticides, and other hazardous materials pose serious risks to both the environment and public health if not properly managed, especially during storms. It is crucial for businesses to store these substances on high ground, away from floodwaters, and to implement the necessary precautions outlined in their Hurricane Preparedness and Emergency Response Plans.

To reduce potential hazards, the DOE stresses that businesses must adhere to best practices for chemical storage. This includes using segregated storage, ensuring containers are tightly sealed, and employing containment bunds to prevent leaks. Failure to follow these safety measures may result in administrative or legal action under the Environmental Protection Act.

The Department encourages all businesses in high-risk areas to remain vigilant as floodwaters rise or other unusual events occur to safeguard lives, the environment, and property. Any incidents of chemical spills or environmental pollution should be reported immediately to the DOE using the contact details provided.

PM Briceño Returns Early to Oversee TS Sara Preparations

BEL Prepares for Tropical Storm Sara

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) says it is taking proactive measures in preparation for the approach of Tropical Storm Sara, which is expected to make landfall in southern Belize within the next 48 hours.

BEL’s teams are closely monitoring the storm and have implemented strategies to maintain continuous, safe, and reliable service to customers, where possible. Resources, equipment, and personnel have been mobilised to address potential impacts and respond quickly to any damage caused by the storm.

Severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, may lead to power outages as lightning or nearby tree branches could make contact with power lines. To safeguard both the power supply system and customers’ equipment, automatic protection devices are triggered, causing temporary interruptions.

In the event of power outages caused by damage from Tropical Storm Sara, BEL teams will begin repairs and restore service once the “All Clear” is issued and it is deemed safe to do so. However, work on power lines will not proceed during rain or lightning. If conditions are deemed unsafe, restoration efforts will be delayed until weather improves.

For safety reasons, power may be disconnected in areas where hazardous electrical conditions exist, such as improper connections.

Day 5: COP29 Faces Heat Over Fossil Fuel Ties, Adaptation Gaps

It’s Day 5 of COP29, and pressure is mounting over the summit’s links to fossil fuel interests and the lack of funding for climate adaptation. Top scientists and former UN chiefs, including Christiana Figueres and Ban Ki-moon, are calling for reform, arguing that countries expanding fossil fuels, like Azerbaijan, should not host future COPs. “We must be realistic about energy transition,” said Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, defending fossil fuels at the summit.

Campaigners are also demanding action to reduce the influence of fossil fuel lobbyists. With nearly 1,800 lobbyists at COP29—more than the delegates from the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries combined—Catherine Abreu of the International Climate Politics Hub called it “demoralising” to see close ties to companies like Chevron and BP.

Meanwhile, the Adaptation Fund, which helps countries most impacted by climate change, is facing a major funding crisis. Despite calls for action, only $61 million was pledged, far short of the $300 million needed. “These missing dollars are not abstractions on a balance sheet; they are lives taken, harvests lost, and development denied,” warned UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

In a separate subject, the COP29 Presidency has launched the COP Truce, urging countries to halt military operations during the summit. Supported by 132 countries, the initiative hopes to reduce the environmental harm caused by warfare, which contributes more emissions than aviation and shipping combined. According to leaders in support, war and armed conflicts worsen the climate crisis.

PM Briceño Returns Early to Oversee TS Sara Preparations

Prime Minister John Briceño has returned to Belize amid growing concerns about Tropical Storm Sara.

The Prime Minister had travelled to Mexico City on Wednesday, November 13, to attend the 270th Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors of COCESNA. However, with the storm’s impact on Belize, he has cut his official visit short.

Upon his return, Prime Minister Briceño is prioritising preparations for Tropical Storm Sara. He will collaborate closely with the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) to ensure the country is prepared and to coordinate response efforts in areas expected to be affected.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow advisories from NEMO and other official sources.

TS Sara now poses a heightened threat to Belize, as a warning has been issued for the entire coast and all cayes within Belizean waters. As of 3:00 PM, the storm was 160 miles southeast of Belize City, moving west at 2 mph with sustained winds of 50 mph. Expected to make landfall in southern Belize early Sunday, Sara is forecast to strengthen, potentially reaching winds of 60 to 70 mph. Heavy rainfall, with totals of up to 14 inches in some areas, poses a significant flooding risk. Coastal regions may also experience storm surges of 1 to 3 feet, alongside damaging winds. Flood warnings remain for central and northern Belize, with roads in Orange Walk District already submerged. Belize is in Phase 3 – Red Two of the National Hurricane Plan, signalling an imminent storm impact.

TS Sara Threatens Belize: Entire Coast Under Warning, Flooding Expected

TS Sara Threatens Belize: Entire Coast Under Warning, Flooding Expected

A tropical storm warning has been extended to include the entire coast of Belize, along with all cayes within Belizean waters, as Tropical Storm Sara continues to approach the region.

At 3:00 PM, Tropical Storm Sara was located at latitude 16.2N and longitude 86.2W, approximately 160 miles southeast of Belize City. The storm is moving westward at a slow pace of 2 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. Sara is forecast to maintain its slow westward motion before shifting west-northwest by late Saturday.

The storm’s centre is expected to remain near the northern coast of Honduras until early Saturday and make landfall over southern Belize early Sunday. Strengthening is anticipated, with maximum sustained winds predicted to reach 60 to 70 mph upon landfall.

Heavy rainfall remains the primary threat. Accumulated rainfall of 2 to 6 inches has already been recorded since Thursday, and an additional 4 to 8 inches—locally higher in some areas—is expected through Sunday. This has led to flooding in several areas.

Winds of up to 70 mph could cause damage to structures, crops, and trees. Coastal areas near the storm’s centre may experience storm surges of 1 to 3 feet.

Flood warnings are in effect for Belize’s central and northern regions, including the Rio Hondo, Macal, Mopan, and Belize Rivers. Roads in the Orange Walk District, particularly San Roman and San Antonio, remain flooded.

Belize remains under Phase 3—Red Two of the National Hurricane Plan, with two red flags featuring black centres hoisted as signals. This phase is activated when a tropical storm or hurricane is expected to make landfall within 36 hours.

Residents, especially in southern Belize, are urged to finalise their emergency preparations. Shelters in affected areas will open as needed. The public is advised to:
– Monitor weather updates closely.
– Clear drains to minimise flooding.
– Check and update emergency supplies, including food, water, and medical essentials.
– Ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and people with disabilities, and secure pets.

Mariners, businesses, and event organisers are advised to remain cautious. Small craft operators should stay in a safe harbour, and public events are to be postponed until the “All Clear” is issued.

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) has activated all district emergency operations centres and continues to monitor the situation. Residents can call the NEMO hotline at 936 for updates and assistance.

NEMO reminds the public that the hurricane season is still active and stresses the importance of staying informed and prepared.

Category One Hurricane is an “Extreme Worst-Case Scenario”

Flood Warnings for Northern and Central Belize

Residents are advised to monitor waterways and exercise caution as water levels rise amid Tropical Storm Sara. In today’s flood forecast, it stated that in Region 7, on the Rio Hondo, flood levels are decreasing at Blue Creek North, Santa Cruz, San Antonio, and San Roman, but are expected to rise near Douglas to the coast. The New River at Hill Bank is seeing increasing levels, while at Caledonia, water levels are steady but remain above normal.

In Region 9, residents should be on alert as the Mopan River at Benque Viejo Town is expected to continue rising. On the Macal River, reservoir levels at the Chalillo, Mollejon, and Vaca spillways remain active, and at San Ignacio, water levels are predicted to exceed the Low-Lying Bridge. Flooding is also expected on the Belize River at More Tomorrow and Double Run, where flood stage levels will continue to rise. Additionally, on the Crooked Tree Lagoon, water levels are increasing but are expected to stay below the causeway.

Region 11 is also facing rising water levels, particularly on the Sibun River at Freetown Sibun, where above-normal levels are expected. Similarly, the Southern Lagoon at Gales Point Village is seeing persistently above-normal levels. Other rivers in southern Belize, such as the Rio Grande at San Pedro Columbia and Big Falls South and the Moho River at Blue Creek South and Jordan, are all expected to experience above-normal levels.

In Region 13, the Sarstoon River is also forecast to reach above-normal levels.

In addition to these warnings, the San Roman and San Antonio access roads have been reported to be flooded.

DFC Nominated for Accreditation to the Adaptation Fund

DFC has been nominated for accreditation to the Adaptation Fund (AF). Announced on November 12 by the Ministry of Economic Development, this nomination follows a meeting between Belize and the AF in October. Once accredited, the DFC will help mobilise grants for projects aimed at strengthening the country’s resilience to climate change, including climate-resistant housing and infrastructure protection.

“The nomination marks a crucial step in advancing Belize’s capacity to finance climate adaptation initiatives and support the resilience of communities facing the impacts of climate change,” the Ministry stated.

The Adaptation Fund, established in 2001, provides financing for projects that help vulnerable countries adapt to climate change through initiatives like improving water management, protecting coastal areas, and enhancing food security.

According to the Ministry, the accreditation process will ensure the DFC meets stringent international standards for fiduciary responsibility, transparency, and accountability. Being that Belize is ranked by the IMF as one of the world’s most vulnerable nations to climate change, particularly from hurricanes and rising sea levels, this move positions Belize to secure vital funding and strengthen its climate resilience for the future.

Miss Universe Belize: ‘She’s Representing Us All’