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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5 and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Getting the job done with a smile
Meet Mr. Elder Quintanilla. Even under the hottest of suns, despite having to rake after filthy us, cleaning our streets day in and out, he will have a smile and a wave if you just look and acknowledge him. I walk past him nearly every day, and our exchanges have only ever been of the smile and maybe a passing comment on the weather.

Gloomy Day? You can still have fun with Splash ‘n’ Paint!
But if a little rain holds you back from getting in the water (why is that?) – there’s other fun stuff to do, and that includes a little color and creativity! Melody Wolfe owns her very own cute little gallery that features tons of Belizean artists, and she’s super encouraging to others who want to explore their inner Picasso. So she’s created a fun weekly event called Splash ‘n’ Paint. For $30BZ, you can create your own masterpiece. Stenciled canvases are provided, as well as paint and of course, Melody guides you when you’re feeling a little behind. The go-to location for this paint party is at Crazy Canuck’s beach bar, every Thursday.

Armed Guatemalans threaten to destroy conservation post in Belize; PM reacts
Tension is increasing between Guatemalan civilians and members of the Belize Defense Force (BDF). On Friday October 3rd, a group of about 40 Guatemalans, armed with rifles, shotguns and machetes barged into Belize’s territory and engaged with five members of the BDF. The illegal civilians threatened to burn down a conservation post that is under construction in the area of Valentin Camp located inside the Caracol Archeological site and one kilometer from the Belize Guatemala border. A government press release dated September 3rd outlined the incident and indicated that the BDF members stood their grounds and after very tense verbal engagement, the Guatemalans retreated and returned to their country. “The BDF has since quickly deployed re-enforcement and is firmly and completely in control of the area, and construction of the conservation post continues.” The conservation post is one of three that are being built to discourage illegal activity and help protect the Chiquibul National Park from Guatemalans who have been destroying the natural resources. The engagement is also at the heel of the death of Special Constable Danny Cornorquie.

Police Report
*On Wednesday, October 1st, as part of a special intelligence operation, the San Pedro Police, Quick Response Team, Criminal Investigation Branch and Special Branch personnel conducted a search on an abandoned building located in the Bayside Area. The search led to the discovery of five cases of Tecate beers, four case of Sol Beer and one case of Superior Beer, all contraband goods from Mexico. No one was found in the vicinity. The goods were labeled as “Found Property” and handed over to the Belize Customs Department. *On Wednesday, October 1st, a search was conducted at the residence of 30-year-old Wayne Allen and 18-year-old Irma Mejia in DFC Area as part of special intelligence information. Present at the time of the search was 25-year-old Diego Wade, 24-year-old Martin Martinez and 19-year-old John Gillett. The search led to the discovery of 6.1 grams of suspected cannabis. All persons were informed of their offense and escorted to the San Pedro Police Station where they were formally arrested and charged for the crime of “Possession of Controlled Drugs”

UDP rallies crowd at Endorsement Convention
On Saturday October 4th, San Pedro Town residents gathered at the Central Park as the Belize Rural South (BRS) United Democratic Party presented their official town council slate and standard bearer at the party’s first endorsement convention. Members of the House of Representatives including Honorable (Hon.) Mark King, Hon. John Saldivar, and Hon.Patrick Faber were in attendance to offer support to their fellow UDP counterparts. The night opened at 8:30PM as members of the UDP executive Karen Canul welcomed party supporters from San Pedro Town and Caye Caulker Village. With Municipal Elections set for March 4th, 2015 the UDP Town Council Slate appealed for voter support as they vowed their township oaths led by UDP Party Chairman Alberto August, pledging to do their utmost best for the island once elected. Official councillor candidates include Hector Tito Alamilla Jr., Flora Ancona, Ruben Gonzalez, Gary Grief, Severo Guerrero Jr., and Gaby Nuñez, along with Mayoral candidate, current Mayor of San Pedro Town Daniel Guerrero, and the BRS UDP Standard Bearer candidate,current Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation Manuel Heredia Jr.

Ambergris Today

Belize Audubon Society’s Urban Bird Watch Kicks Off
Every Sunday in October for the past five years, Belize Audubon Society (BAS) has been conducting bird watching expeditions in every town in Belize. This year Dangriga was the venue for the first urban bird watch of 2014. Twenty-five birders participated, most from Dangriga, but also from Belmopan, Belize City and the Stann Creek District communities. Prominent among the participants were students from the Stann Creek Ecumenical Junior College. The group witnessed massive migration numbers. A conservative estimate of over thirty thousand egrets, herons, swallows and kingbirds in constant groups of over one hundred over flew the birding group during the three-hour bird watch. A total of 73 species were recorded.

Saga Humane Society Announced Halloween Party
The 11th Annual Saga Humane Society Spooktacular Halloween Party has been set for Sunday October 26, 2014 from 11a.m. to 5p.m at Carlo & Ernie's Runway Bar. It is expected to be the largest Saga Halloween Party in history. New for 2014, is celebrity judged contests (Best Costume, Best Kisser, Owner/Pet Look-A-Like, Best Trick, and more), fun activities and games for pets and kids, raffles, auction items and so much more. Saga is pleased to also include this year a Smooch-A-Pooch kissing booth that is sure to delight young and old.

Invest Belize Magazine Releases Third Volume
The Belize Trade & Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) in collaboration with McNab Publishing Ltd., proudly unveiled the third volume of the Invest Belize Magazine on September 30, 2014, at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. Through this new partnership, that was announced in May of this year, the Invest Belize magazine has been completely revamped and transformed into an effective publication on the world of investment, business and trade in Belize. The magazine itself, whose theme was “Agribusiness” for this volume, features engaging articles from various sectors of the business community and relevant statistics that, when combined, provides pertinent information to an important target audience – potential investors in the country of Belize.

Misc Belizean Sources

One woman protest outside the US Embassy in Belmopan.
In anticipation of today's protest, the road outside the Embassy has been cordoned off and there is police presence.However, activist & media personality, Yaya Marin Coleman is the only person demonstrating in front of the United States Embassy In Belmopan. The protest was scheduled for Belizeans to demonstrate their discontent with the US Embassy to hire a Guatemalan company to build the military base on Hunting Caye.

Refurbishment Works to commence at the Lands & Survey Department in Belmopan
The Ministry of Natural Resources & Agriculture informs the general public, that in line with the Ministry’s commitment to improve efficiency and delivery of service, it has commenced refurbishment of the Lands & Survey Department in Belmopan.

HUNTING CAYE FORWARD OPERATING BASE
The Ministry of National Security hereby announces that the United States Army Corp of Engineers, the US agency responsible for the construction of the Hunting Caye Forward Operating Base, has issued a letter to the Guatemalan company BINARQ which has had the effect of causing all construction at the Base to cease. This action came about after consultations between the Ministry of National Security, the Belize Coast Guard and the United States agencies in Belize. The Ministry of National Security is insisting that this remains in effect until a satisfactory policy decision can be arrived at among all parties that takes into consideration the sensitivities expressed by sections of the Belizean population. The Ministry takes this opportunity to clarify that BINARQ, the Guatemalan company in question, was contracted to build the Hunting Caye Base in 2011, months before the current Minister of National Security, Hon. John Saldivar assumed the portfolio. Minister Saldivar was briefed on the ongoing Hunting Caye and San Pedro projects, shortly after being appointed as the Minister of National Security in the second term of the United Democratic Party government. This also means that as on-going projects that were approved prior to our second term, there was no obligation or requirement on the part of the new Minister to report the details of these contracts to Cabinet.

Scarlet Six Biomonitoring Team
The 2014 season finally ended today. The team and the funds are exhausted. We extracted today, with mixed feelings. 7 Macaw chicks survived this season (that's 2 more than last year). But, we found other active poacher camps in more remote areas...

COROZAL YOUTH FORUM
As communities in Belize seek for a better child friendly environment, the old phrase of “It takes a community to raise a child” certainly takes center stage in these very trying times. Families are part of a larger community that help or hurt our best efforts to raise our children. Yes, it’s the parents’ responsibility to care for their child. However, I believe, like many others, that it takes the community to provide the best environment for nurturing the individual. Communities that encourage involvement from different professions offer learning opportunities for all children. There are numerous ways we can join together to provide the best possible childhood for today’s children. Initiatives as the Youth Forum are only a few of the ways children care programs can interact with the community, parents, and extended family members. The theme for this year’s Youth Forum “Youth to Youth My Way” resonates even more. Special guest Neidi Rosado, Coordinator of the National Youth Council stated that we should all note that 70% of our Belize population are youths and pointed out that not one organization is at the fore representing their needs and concerns.

Sept 28 - Oct 4 2014 Fishing Report
A great week even though it was lightly attended with just 3-4 boats going out daily, weather was great, permit, tarpon and bonefish were available each and every day.

Channel 7

A Halt On Hunting Caye Construction By Guatemalan Company
"Stop it!" That's the letter that the United States Army Corp of Engineers - sent to the Guatemalan Company that's building the Coast Guard Forward Operating Base on Hunting Caye. A press release from the Ministry of National Security half an hour ago announced that all construction at the Base has ceased. The release says, quote, "This action came about after consultations between the Ministry of National Security, the Belize Coast Guard and the United States agencies in Belize." It continues, "this remains in effect until a satisfactory policy decision can be arrived at among all parties…" The Ministry has committed to keep the public informed as soon as an agreement is reached with the United States Army Corp of Engineers.

Did A Tornado Tear Up Maskall?
There were very heavy rains and winds all across the country yesterday and last night, but the folks on the old road seem to have taken the brunt of the bad weather. Tonight, 8 families in Maskall Village are displaced after a freak storm whipped through and destroyed their homes. The residents say the storm seemed like a tornado to them. This morning, our News team travelled there to assess the aftermath. Daniel Ortiz has that story: Daniel Ortiz reporting This frame on stilts used to be an almost fully completed house - that's until a strange weather event destroyed it last night. Winds from a tornado-like storm ripped the roofing off t and flung it against this adjacent house, which is where it remains right now. All over Maskall Village, 7 other homeowners reported varying degrees of damage to their houses. There were a number of downed trees, which had to be cleared out of the road. Still there were others which were leaning on power lines, stretched to their limit.

Dawn's House Tumbled Down After Rain
And while that storm was whipping up last night in Maskall, this morning in the city - a woman's house just fell apart like wafer biscuits. Dawn Philips had been living at her Port Loyola home for 14 years but this morning at 6:45, her life literally fell to pieces when her house tumbled down. We found her in a bad way this morning:.. Courtney Weatherburne reporting This morning we found Dawn Phillips living on a septic tank in her neighbor's yard, cradling what's left of her belongings after her home collapsed early this morning. She narrated the frightening moments.

Bobby Chin Charmed Caleb, Says UNIBAM Won't Go For Injunction
The Bobby Chin Birthday Bash, which has been in the news because of the controversy over objectionable lyrics, will go ahead unchallenged. That's because as we showed you last night, Jamaican Artist, Robert Lee, better known as "Bobby Chin" or "Black Chiny", responded to UNIBAM's criticism that they might incite violence at their concert. Bobby Chin told us that he did not need UNIBAM to pressure him into a doing a clean show, because that is the standing orders at any event he hosts or performs, and that it has been a long-standing practice of his. Well, UNIBAM says that the they've gotten the verbal undertaking they wanted from him, and so, they are not going to the Supreme Court to get any emergency injunction to block the concert from happening.

Alleged Burglar Drags Himself To Court After Breaking Legs
Keith Burgess showed up at court on crutches today - and had to scrape himself up off the ground when he was called into court. But, it wasn't the police who left him like that - the allegation is that he did it to himself. Police say he broke both legs when he jumped form a building he was caught burglarizing. The 53-year-old Caye Caulker resident was caught in the act, on a surveillance camera after stealing 20 whole lobsters from Bamboo's Beach Bar & Grill in Caye Caulker two days ago on October 7th. He was arraigned on a single charge of burglary - to which he pleaded not guilty. He got bail of $1,000 and is due back in Court #4 on December 9, 2014.

Gunplay At Mile 8
4 residents from Mile 8 were charged with aggravated assault this afternoon when they appeared before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser. The 4 are 22 year old Mark Evan Vernon, 22 year old Jamal Grant along with two minors. The incident happened on Monday where the men reportedly assaulted Mile 8 resident Brandon Dawson with a firearm. Vernon was also charged with kept ammunition without a gun license because he was found with a .22mm caliber round the following day. Due to the nature of the offense, no bail was granted and the two minors were remanded to the Belize Wagner Facility while Vernon and Grant were remanded to the Belize Central Prison. Before Vernon left the court, he told Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser that the complainant had dropped the charges but the police still went ahead to press charges. Their next court date is set for November 21st, 2014.

FCD Launches Telethon To Fundraise For Rangers
For two weeks now since the murder of Danny Conorquie - national attention has been laser focused on the western border with Guatemala - and the 25 miles or so that abut the Chiquibul forest. And, the friends for Conservation and Development, which co-manages the Chiquibul National Park says the attention is much needed. That's because the Chiquibul, which is four times the size of Barbados, needs more boots on the ground. The BDF has already sent more soldiers, but the Friends have to provide Forest Rangers to accompany them - to gather important information about the preservation and the plunder of the largest conservation area in Belize. And so the FCD is hoping to harness public interest in the area - to get some support for their rangers program. They're organizing a telethon - and today at a press conference they told the media why:.. Jules Vasquez reporting In ten days Camp Valentin will be fully operational. It is a conservation post which sits just across the border form the Guatemalan village of La Rejoya - and angry villagers came across on Friday demanding that it be taken down:

Mayor Says He'll Pave Terrible Thoroughfare
We have been reporting on major road renovations in the city for the past few months - and while it usually happens without publicity, municipal elections are coming, and it seems ground breakings are the thing. Today ground was broken for the concreting of the battered Blue Marlin Boulevard. The Mayor explains the extent of this 1st phase of renovation works in the area. Darrell Bradley, Belize City Mayor "The people in this community and those persons who travels through this area will have a two-lane carriage way that will be a beautiful boulevard equip with earthen drains for the time being, but the second phase will cause us to do concrete drains and sidewalks, but that's not part of this first phase, but this will be a major improvement. We are also going to implement a round-about right behind me.

Dean Street Drainage Difficulties After Every Deluge
On the topic of road renovations, the residents of Dean Street are plagued with a major and chronic flooding issue caused by the lack of proper drainage. We also asked the Mayor today what he is doing to fix it: Darrell Bradley, Belize City Mayor "I've heard the complaint about Dean Street before and we sent out crews to clear some of the areas. We are working to ensure that they are outflows into the canal as best as possible. We know that there will be flooding, but what we are trying to aim at is to ensure that within a reasonable period of time after the rains the water can flow out as quickly as possible."

PM to DC
Prime Minister Barrow left the country today for official business in Washington DC where he will meet with officials of the Inter-American Development Bank. He returns in 5 days on Tuesday October 14th. Deputy Gaspar Vega will act as Prime Minister in his absence.

Drug Destruction in Dangriga
Dangriga police had a drug destruction today - it wasn't like a tonne of cocaine - it was more like housekeeping - as the formation destroyed all the individual drug busts they had made by fire. The entire session was witnessed and tallied by the requisite legal and police authorities.

Another New Intake of Police
Yesterday, 136 male and female recruits who passed out as fully fledged police officers, after going through their four months of formal training at the police academy. These new police officers were part of the recruit intake #90, and 7News was there to see them take the oath. It's part of government's increased spending on security and Minister of National Security John Saldivar, told the officers what is expected of them: Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security "Recruit Squad #90, let me start by congratulating all 135 of you for successfully completing this process of entry into the Belize Police Department. 26 females and 109 males; you are 135 amongst the more than 800 applicants as I said before who have persevered over the last 18 weeks sacrificed and trained at the police academy. You have worked hard and now you are launching your career as a police officer.

Police Minister Says Media Sensationalizing Murders
50% of this intake is expected to go to the nation's crime hotspot, Belize City. That's about 65 new police on the ground, but despite ever more officers on the streets, Belize City residents still feel unsafe and that 2014 has been a violent year. We can't say for sure because the police department has stopped producing statistics. Yet, still, The National Security Minister, who hadn't been granting interviews for some months now took an opportunity yesterday to publicly criticize the media, suggesting that press has been sensationalizing homicides, while taking them out of context. Here's how he put it: Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security "No one in the media is bothering to look at the numbers before declaring that crime is spiraling out of control. Yes, there are times when there are spikes in murders, which is a cycle which we all know. However a closer look at the numbers will tell you that the overall trend for 2014 is still far better than 2012 when we had 145 murders.

Senate Debates New Gun Law
Minister John Saldivar has also been integral in the amendments to the gun law which has been publicly criticized on many different occasions as being oppressive to citizens. As we've told you, the amendments to the law, after months of work came in the form of the Firearm Amendment Bill and the Crime Control and Criminal Justice Bill. These amendments were supposed to rationalize the law so that first time offenders wouldn't be tied up in jail for unreasonable amounts of time, as is currently the case. As we told you, yesterday, those bills were passed by the Senate, and awaited the Govern General's Assent to law. The Senators got their chance to debate the bill, and it received quite a number of negative reviews because those senators who don't support it say that these bills do not provide any sort of institutional alleviation to the problems created by the "draconian gun law" currently in effect.

Chiquibul, The Scenic River Route
And tonight we go back into our archives again to continue our in depth look into the many issues at play in the Chiquibul. In 2009 we went into the depths of the National Park but not overland, instead we took the scenic route by river where many of the issues can be appreciated from up close. Here's a look back at that story:.. Jules Vasquez Reporting, Here at Chalillo where the wide span, 420 feet of the 150 foot high containment wall holds in and harnesses the upper branch of the Macal, one can truly appreciate the sharp juxtaposition of what’s probably Belize's greatest civil engineering feat buttressed against nature's finest creation, the broad breathtaking landscape of Chiquibul. Jarring but compelling, as the coppery tones of the boulders blasted to clear the land for the dam - form a neat contrast against the still waters

Seine Bight Teacher Poisoned Himself
On Monday, we told you the tragedy in Seine Bight Village where 33 year-old Byron Castillo stabbed his common-law wife 34 year-old Nicole Swazo, in an ugly public dispute last week Saturday. Immediately after the attack, police found him dead inside his house, he had hung himself after drinking an insecticide. Well, Police say that the post-mortem concluded that he died from acute chemical pneumonia due to bronchial aspiration as a consequence of ingesting a chemical substance, namely malathion. This means that he died from the poison he drank, before he attempted to hang himself.

Channel 5

U.S. Southcom Sends Guatemalans South
The Minister of National Security John Saldivar informed the media on Wednesday that the construction of the military facility at Hunting Caye had not been stopped. Hours later, on Wednesday [...]

One Woman Protest at the US Embassy
As we told you, the US Embassy has issued a press statement in which it explained the decision of the US Southern Command to select a Guatemalan contractor to build [...]

Heavy Rains Destroy Home in the City
A family of five is without their house tonight after heavy rains and winds lashed the City on Wednesday night. This morning just before seven o’clock, their small wooden house [...]

FCD to Hold Telethon To Raise Funds
Rafael Manzanero of Friends for Conservation and Development has been making desperate pleas for much needed assistance to co-manage the Chiquibul National Park. Manzanero has told just about everyone who [...]

Beenie Man Gets the Green Light from UNIBAM
The fuss over the Bobby Chin Birthday Bash Concert has all but been settled. Earlier this week, the attorney for the United Belize Advocacy Movement, UNIBAM, wrote to the promoters [...]

Ministry of Lands Silent on Unitedville Dispute
Prime Minister Dean Barrow has gone on the record to state that the Ministry of Natural Resources is a hotbed of corruption. He probably could have gone further to call [...]

Two Men Arraigned for Separate Murders in the Toledo District
Two men were formally arraigned for murder this morning at the Punta Gorda Magistrate’s Court. Although the charges were just laid, the murders go back some time. Twenty-one year old [...]

Sewell’s Attorney Applies for Leave to Appeal Extradition
Gary Sewell has been behind bars since 2010 fighting an extradition request by the U.S. On July third, 2014, Justice Michelle Arana handed down a decision to extradite Sewell.  But [...]

CitCo Breaks Ground for Blue Marlin Blvd. Renovation
Since taking office in 2012, Mayor Darrell Bradley and the Belize City Council have concreted a total of one hundred and twenty-seven streets across the municipality.  This morning, ground was [...]

Mayor Bradley Offers Update on City Infrastructure Works
With another phase of road works set to begin on Monday, we asked Mayor Bradley earlier today for an assessment of the already cemented streets, in light of the recent [...]

Major Drug Destruction in Dangriga
This morning, in the outskirts of Dangriga, a drug destruction operation took place. Two batches of both cocaine and marijuana went up in smoke, all in all, a total of [...]

Canadian Named in Billion-Dollar Fraud
Bahamian nationals Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach met bail of a hundred thousand dollars on October first, for an extradition warrant. The duo and three others are wanted by the [...]

Senator Shoman Blasts G.O.B. for Skewed Priorities
There’s been much said about the Coast Guard’s Guatemalan constructed forward operating base on Hunting Caye amid furious anti-Guatemalan sentiment in the wake of the murder of Danny Conorquie, the [...]

Top 20 Art Students Awarded by Atlantic Bank
Atlantic Bank Limited on Wednesday hosted an award ceremony for its fourth annual art competition. This year, primary schools students, who are avid painters, were asked to submit pieces that [...]

Healthy Living looks at the ChikV threat to Belize
On Tuesday, officials from the Ministry of Health hosted a press conference to discuss Belize’s preparedness for Ebola and Chikungunya. Belizeans have been preoccupied about the country’s level of readiness [...]

CTV3

Another Stalemate In The Negotiations For Bagasse
There seems to be no ‘happily ever after’ in sight when it comes to reaching to a mutual understanding and agreement between the BSCFA and BSI/ASR. Today, another round of discussions was held where members of both entities met to review the draft counterproposal from the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association to BSI/ASR’s newly proposed commercial agreement presented to the association on September 8th, the date the two entities last met. BSI is saying that they hope to finalize the agreement by the time the next crop season begins but that their position remains the same where they don’t want to enter into an interim agreement but to conclude negotiations once and for all. This is being proposed for many reasons, says Financial Controller for BSI, Belizario Carballo Jr.

OWTC Conducts Pets Sterilization Program
In some dog-related circles, the question of surgical sterilization, otherwise known as spaying (females) and neutering (males) is sure to spark hot debate. And while pet overpopulation and euthanasia are a continuing problem, the Orange Walk Town Council will be engaging in a first Dog and Cat Sterilization Campaign to spay your pets. Deputy Mayor, Ian Cal, says saying or neutering your dog is an important part of responsible pet ownership and is the most humane way for population control of stray pets. Ian Cal – Deputy Mayor, OWTC “An avenue the council use to take before and it has been done for many years is the dog eradication where at least every six months the Council goes around and eradicates stray dogs and cats or whatever pets are on the streets and it is an inhumane way of doing things but it was a way on getting it done so we as a council decide that it is not the best option, after consultation with many of the residence as well there are many dog lovers and pet lover sin this country...

Local Artist Expresses Passion About His Art Work
A lot of us have stared in awe at the art work of people living abroad and often times we fail to notice the raw talent that surrounds us within our very own community. And these are plenty and the talent comes in every form and shape. Tonight we want to highlight the work of a young Orange Walk resident who is finding his way up in the world of art. The following is a look at the work of twenty seven year old Jesus Melendez who not only paints but also tattoos and then some. Jesus Melendez – Artist “Everyone looked up to me for drawing until 1st, 2nd form and I went to art club and that is when Mr. Bennett taught me a little about painting and then until then I just stopped because I was looking more into an educational field and I never thought that art would be my way of living.”

Police Cleans Up Orange Walk
Tonight, several persons have been detained and are in custody after a string of operations carried out by Orange Walk Police proved successful. We were reliably informed that the raid seeks to rid the town core of drugs, firearms, ammunition and stolen goods. Several persons have been detained but are yet to be charged. Deputy Commanding the OW Police Formation, Inspector Selvin Tillett, says the operations are necessary to provide for a crime-free community. And like in any undertaking, criticism from families of the persons detained has already started. According to Inspector Tillett, once police officers are following protocol and have credible evidence to detain a person that is exactly what will be done. The men detained are expected to be charged tomorrow. The operation says Tillett, will be an on-going one for the next couple of weeks.

Four Charged For Family Feud
A family feud landed three women who are cousins and one man who is a friend of the family at the Corozal Magistrates Court today. Twenty three year old Nurse Nancy Chan, 18 year old student Fernando Martinez and a 17 year old and a 15 year old minor were arraigned in front of Magistrate Hurl Hamilton for charges ranging from harm to common assault. Reports are that on September 4th 2014, Martinez and the 17 year old minor were in the village of San Roman, Corozal when they attacked the 15 year old minor and burst her gold chain valued at $300. Because of that incident both Martinez and the 17 year old minor were jointly charged for harm and damage to property. Both pleaded not guilty and were granted bail of $1000.00 each plus a surety of the same amount.

First Ebola Patient Dies In The US
Yesterday we told you about The Ebola outbreak in West Africa and measures being taken in Belize to prevent its introduction to the country. Ebola, which is the world's deadliest disease to date, has prompted the World Health Organization to declare an international health emergency as more than 3,850 people have died of the virus in Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria this year. But this morning, 42 year old Thomas Eric Duncan, the first person to be diagnosed with Ebola inside the United States amid an outbreak that has killed thousands in Africa, died. His death was confirmed by Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas where he was being treated.

World Mental health Day Observed In Orange Walk
October 10th is designated as World Mental Health Day across the globe and in Belize it is no different. In this light, the Ministry of Health will observe this day with a national ceremony at the Welcome Resource Center in Belize City on Friday. The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day is “Living with Schizophrenia” which seeks to focus attention on the burden of stigma that persons with this illness face on a daily basis. The Ministry’s release states that Schizophrenia is a serious but treatable mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. An affected person finds it difficult to tell the difference between real and imagined experiences, to think logically, express feelings or how to behave appropriately.

Alex Tillett Turned Over Himself To The Police
Wanted man Alex Tillett, turned himself to authorities’ sometime this morning. Tillett is accused of taking part in the heist of the Hung Yun Store on the Phillip Goldson Highway near the Northern Regional Hospital and was wanted for two counts of robbery. Tillett had absconded police since September 19th. Police say 27 year old Alex Tillett; known as “lexus” was one of two men who also robbed Darvis Store at gunpoint on September 11th. You may recall that the September 19th armed robbery of Hung Yun Store proved fatal for his accomplice Leslie Logan Jr. who was shot by the proprietor of the store. Following several weeks of hiding, Tillett is now in police custody and is yet to be charged. We spoke with a family member today who wished to remain anonymous.

Ranchito Government School Burglarized
Last night, thieves targeted the Ranchito Government School and made off with proceeds from the schools fundraising effort that was scheduled for this coming Friday. It’s a stinging blow for the faculty of the school who are looking forward to the reconstruction of two school buildings. Reporter Victor Castillo has more on the story. Victor Castillo – Reporting A routine day for students and faculty of Ranchito Government School quickly turned heart wrenching when they arrived on campus today only to find out that vandals had burglarized the school sometime last night. Member of the Parent-Teacher Association, Consuelo Magana told us more. Consuelo Magaña – member of the PTA “We work very hard and some people just come into our school break Windows, break doors and take stuff that is no theirs the PTA is working hard for the benefit of our children.”

Corozal Police Discovers The Body Of Female Corozalena
Corozal Police are tonight awaiting the results of a post mortem examination being conducted as we speak on the body of female to decipher if she was murdered or if she died of natural causes. Around 3:00 this afternoon the badly decomposed body of the elderly female from the Village of Cristo Rey, Corozal, was discovered by villagers in a cane field located within the village. While we have been provided with the name of the woman it will be withheld since some of her family members are yet to be notified. At this time information into the case is hard to come by but we understand that the woman went missing approximately eight days ago. Yesterday, her family and residents of Cristo Rey became concerned and organized a search party that went out looking for the woman. But they came back to the village empty handed. This afternoon the search party continued looking and that is when they discovered the body of the woman who is in her seventies. As mentioned a post mortem is being conducted on site and we understand that right after, the body will be buried due to the bad state of decomposition. We will have more on this story in tomorrow’s newscast.

LOVE FM

Investigators Make Progress in Two Toledo Murders
Charges have finally been laid against two men from the Toledo District for two separate murders. On Mother’s Day, the body of 26-year-old Janice Floris Vargas was found at Jamaica Bar in Punta Gorda. The young woman had been stabbed to death. More than four months after her murder 21-year-old Kenner Gomez of a Cemetery area address has been charged for the crime. 24-year-old Miguel Choco d San Pedro Columbia was also charged for murder. This is connection with the murder of 61-year-old Agripina Coc who was murdered on August 30.

Blue Marlin Boulevard to Be Completed for Christmas
Today Belize City Mayor, Darrell Bradley, held a ground breaking ceremony for the cementing of Blue Marlin Boulevard in Belize City. Bradley also shared that the council’s technical team is putting significant emphasis on the upgrading of city streets. So far, 127 streets have been paved. It is expected that the commencing of Blue Marlin Boulevard and surrounding areas should be completed by December. “This street had always been slated for a boulevard. However the original street was just a double lane carriage way and so with the ground breaking this morning we are launching the project which should take three months so that before Christmas we are going to have a boulevard be developed here. It is going to be three times as big as the existing carriage way. It is also going to feature a roundabout that is going to intersect the boulevard with Coney Drive and our analysis is showing that that should ease some of the traffic flow coming on to Coney Drive. We are going to put drains along the side, these are not going to be the drains that you see along Chetumal Boulevard; those were too expensive but they are going to be nice drains.

National Security Minister Kept Details of Contract Private
Saldivar also commented on the Forward Operating Base being built by a Guatemalan Company at Hunting Caye in Southern Belize. It was also made known that the company chose to hire Guatemalan nationals. This fact was not communicated to Prime Minister, Dean Barrow and Saldivar told us why… JOHN SALDIVAR “I don’t believe that anyone in the security apparatus would have allowed for this to happen if they felt that our national security was threatened by the fact that the Guatemalan company was doing the construction. We understand the sentiment of our Belizean people and the matter has been reviewed we have already been in communication with the US Embassy with respect to some flexibility in their procurement guidelines.” LOCAL REPORTER “What will happen at this time with this Guatemalan contractor at the Forward Operating Base will he continue?” JOHN SALDIVAR “At this point no decision has been made to discontinue.” LOCAL REPORTER “Did you know about it?” JOHN SALDIVAR “Yes I did.”

National Security Minister Has No Answers In Conorquie’s Death
The murder of Special Constable Daniel “Danny” Conorquie at the Caracol Archaeological Site has sparked anger since it is widely speculated that the culprits were Guatemalans. That anger further escalated when it was made public that an internal memo was sent to the Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie, by the Officer in Charge of the Tourism Police Unit, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Diana Hall, on January 24. ASP Hall wrote, quote “the Guatemalans have become so bold that they are also falling trees next to the main road used to access the Caracol site approximately 1.5 miles from the site………there is evidence of well-established trails used by Guatemalans for such activities……..I personally believe that these officers are put in a high risk position and although it is an Archaeological site, the Tourism Officers are not the one who should be manning that site,” end of qoute. Hall recommended that officers posted at Caracol be provided with bullet proof vest, that their shotguns be replaced with higher powered weapons and that that all personnel stationed at Caracol be adequately trained. However, nothing came of Hall’s warning and recommendations. So today, we asked Minister of National Security, John Saldivar, about that memo and here is how he responded.

PlusTV

Blue Marlin Drive to Be Cemented
Cement street works continue in Belize City and the official ground breaking ceremony for Blue Marlin Drive occurred Thursday morning. The plan for Blue Marlin Drive is for a newly cemented two lane street with a roundabout, to assist in the free flow of traffic in the area. A total of 127 streets have been concreted in Belize City so far.

Miguel Segura Case Adjourned to January 2015
Miguel Segura, recently promoted to Deputy Commissioner of Police, landed himself in a heap of trouble when a video, that went viral, captured him smoking a cigarette and seemingly nonchalant after a deadly collision on the George Price highway which claimed the life of Yolanda Valencia. This ignited a protest in the village of Succotz on August 20th earlier this year. Later that same evening Miguel Segura was arraigned at the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court, where a slew of charges were read to him. including driving with alcohol levels above the prescribed limit. His second court date was on Thursday, when he appeared unrepresented before Magistrate Aretha Ford at the Magistrates court in Belmopan. The sitting lasted only a couple of minutes after which it was adjourned until January 13th 2015.

Keith Burgess Charged for Burglary
On Thursday, a 53-year-old Caye Caulker man, who was caught in the act burglarizing a home on the island, was arraigned in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, on a single count of burglary. He is 53-year-old Keith Burgess. On Monday of this week, Mr Burgess was caught in the act on a surveillance camera, after stealing 20 whole lobsters from inside the business place of Bamboose Beach Bar & Grill. Keith Burgess broke both his feet, allegedly, when he jumped off the roof of the business place he was burglarising. Mr Burgess dragged himself on the ground using his knees when he went to court on Wednesday, saying he refused the crutches as they hurt him more.

Four 8 Mile Residents Charged for Aggravated Assault
Four members of the Mile 8 Community on the George Price Highway were arraigned on a single charge of aggravated assault with a firearm upon Brandon Dawson. The alleged gun play happened on Monday, October 6, 2014 at Mile 8. The group of four, which included Mark Evan Vernon, age 22, and 22-year-old Jamal Grant, and the two 17 year old minors, appeared before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser, where they were unrepresented and jointly read a single charge each of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, to wit, a firearm upon Brandon Dawson. Mark Vernon was charge separately with another person, not yet arrested, for one count of kept ammunition without a gun license. The group of four all pleaded not guilty.

US Contracted Guatemalan Company Bonatti
Both our Belizean Leaders and the American counterparts appear in a quandary, over the recent revelations that a Guatemalan construction company is currently building a Coast Guard Forward Station on Hunting Caye. The revelations have struck the core of the Belizean public’s psyche and the public backlash as been fast and furious. In a press release yesterday the US Embassy revealed that “…the Guatemalan company Bonatti Ingenieros y Arquitectos Sociedad was assessed as the most qualified based on the selection criteria.” That selection criteria, the release stated, “grants the contract to the company assessed to provide the best product at the most reasonable cost as is the custom with contract bidding.” But who is Bonatti? We know it is a Guatemalan Construction Company building a National Security Structure in Belize. Its address is 18 Avenida Ocho in the Zone 14 of Guatemala City .

High Profile Murder Arrests in Toledo
Toledo police have made two arrests in two high profile murder cases. The first one is in the case of the murder of 26 year old Janice Flores Vargas which occurred on May 11 of this year. The young waitress was shot to death in the bar. On Thursday, police charged 21-year-old Kenner Gomez of Punta Gorda with her murder. The second arrest is for the murder of 61 year old Agripina Coc. The elderly woman was raped and killed; her nude body found in some bushes on August 3 of this year. Police say they have charged 24 year old Miguel Choco with her murder. MiguelChoco was the subject of a village wide hunt when Agripina’s body was discovered. He was finally caught and police have now charged him with the crime of murder.

Body Found inside a Canefield
On Tuesday at around 3 pm, the body of an unidentified woman was found in a cane field outside of Cristo Rey village in the Corozal district. The body of the elderly female was discovered by villagers and has since been identified. She went missing approximately ten days ago and family and friends organized a search party and discovered the body of the 70 year old in a cane field. A post mortem was carried out on site due to the advanced state of decomposition.

New Book On Improving Health
On Tuesday night at 6 pm, Cornelio Marfield, certified Lifestyle Counsellor and Health Educator, released a book titled, Improving Your Health, 8 Simple Effective Methods. The release occurred at Heritage Library in Belmopan on Mountain View Blvd. Mr Marfield, a former Biology and Chemistry teacher, now works with many clients from several Health and Fitness Institutions in the country of Belize. He is also the current President of the Belize Diabetes Association, Belmopan Branch. He told us more about the reason for the book. “When I was considered the role that was given to me, particularly the President of the Diabetes Association, and I observed, after entering that position, the high rate of obesity and overweight, and the disease that comes along with those, and that particular risk factor, I thought that educating the people one way or the other, either through the media or writing, would have been eminent.

Senators share perspectives on Amendments to the Legal Profession Act
The Senate met on Wednesday to pass the bill for amendments to the Legal Profession Act. The Bill is the brainchild of the current UDP Administration, which has labelled the Belize Bar Association as having a strong PUP bias. The bill makes it no longer compulsory for Lawyers to belong to the Bar Association in order to practise law in Belize. The other major change that the Bill proposes is that the General Legal Council, which is responsible for monitoring complaints from Clients of Attorneys, will be reconstituted. Two Senators, Senator Lisa Shoman and Senator Patrick Jason Andrews, appeared on Wednesday morning’s Rise and Shine Show and shared their own perspectives on the legislation. According to Senator Shoman there was no consultation with the Association, or its respective arms, to hear their opinions on the bill.

Ministers say Guatemalans building Belizean security base are all legal
News broke at the last meeting of the House of Representatives on Tuesday September 30th , that a Coast Guard Security outpost is being built on Hunter Caye. This is all fine and dandy, however it is being built exclusively by Guatemalan’s with Guatemalan workers. On Wednesday it was addressed at the Senate, and also later by the Minister of National Security John Saldivar, who had previously stated at the House of Representatives last week that quote, “the question has to be whether we would look a gift horse in the mouth and give up a much needed forward operating base.” Here is what the Senators had to say: Lisa Shoman – PUP Senator “Mister President, not only in the name of National Security, not only should we look the gift horse, but it is not every gift horse that you should try to ride, because one of these days you will find out that your gift horse is in fact a Trojan horse, and we have to, as responsible representatives of the people, we have to say this.”

The Guardian

$190,735.68 for Public Sector Workers Trust - Beneficiaries get nothing!
Belize Telemedia Limited held its annual general meeting on Thursday, September 25, and based on the company’s performance it was another good year for the company’s shareholders. Among those shareholders is the Public Sector Worker’s Trust which is receiving a handsome $190,735.68. It has been two months since the trustees of the Public Sector Workers Trust were making their media rounds trying to explain what it is that will be done with the money that has accumulated over 17 years since the trust began accumulating money. At the time of those rounds however, there were more questions than answers which arose out of the rounds and two months later there is still no clear picture as to what will happen with the money of the trust. There are a number of outstanding issues that need to be addressed, chief among them is the fact that the trustees nor the protectors have made no effort whatsoever to determine who the beneficiaries of the trust should be. There is also the lingering question as to what the financial status of the trust is. The figure 5.5 million dollars is being tossed about as to how much the trust should have in its coffers but the truth is that there is no telling since there has been no financial statement that has been made public.

Cinderella Plaza finds its fairy
In the center of Belize City, one of the few remaining areas that has not received attention to bring it to a class A road is Cinderella Plaza. But like Cinderella who was transformed by her fairy godmother the area will soon be up to mark. On Monday, October 6, Mayor Darrell Bradley along with representatives of the ministry of works, flood mitigation project and contractor Medina’s construction broke ground to commence work on the area to extend the Douglas Jones canal across Freetown road and into Baymen avenue and on to Calle al Mar and into the Caribbean sea. The project will cost $1,813,629.88 and is financed by the Inter American Development Bank and will run up to July 8, 2015 making it a 10 month project. According to Mayor Darrell Bradley the entire Cinderella Plaza area was awaiting the construction of the underground canal and the council was unable to complete the work until the flood mitigation project rolled in. At the completion of the canal the area will be redesigned to include parking for the taxi stand that currently exists there as well as for private vehicles.

Beltraide begins free job readiness training
On Monday, October 6th, the Belize Training and Employment center (BTEC) held orientation classes for 55 students to enroll in a three week, intense training program. BTEC is a newly formed unit of the Belize Trade and Invest Development Services (BELTRAIDE) and is seeking to assist individuals who are willing to commit to a rigorous training schedule with a possibility of employment within a call center. BTEC’s mission is to be Belize’s leading center for industry specific workforce development by providing effective, demand driven, user-friendly and value based programs that will develop, deliver and sustain a quality workforce. The program commenced on Monday at the ITVET in Belize City with 55 trainees enrolled. That number is expected to go up to 110 by next week. For the three week program the trainees will take on courses in career management and personal development, work ethics and culture, conflict management, teamwork, health and wellness, typing, basic mathematics skills, communication skills, telephone etiquette, customer service, sales among others.

Mexico and Belize Improve bilateral relations in Tourism, Health, Education and Immigration
On Friday, October 3rd, Belize's foreign Minister, Hon. Wilfred Elrington, and Mexican Foreign Minister Jose Antonio met for the 8th Bi-national Commission Meeting in Belize City. After a two day meeting, the ministers signed a memorandum of understanding in tourism cooperation, a letter of intent between both countries to improve security and cooperation programs at the countries maritime borders and a memorandum of understanding to strengthen the Belize-Mexico High Level Border Security Group. The objective of the 8th Meeting of the Bi-national Commission was to boost the strategic relationship between the countries and to review in detail the bilateral agenda in the political, economic, social, security and cooperation areas. This was achieved through discussions held by different subcommittees including in areas of Economy, Trade and Financial Affairs; the Joint Commission for Technical and Scientific Cooperation; Educational and Cultural Cooperation; Immigration Group; and the Mexico-Belize Transport Authorities Group.

Land tenure regularized in Silk Grass and Trio villages
On Tuesday October 7, personnel from the Lands Department visited Silk Grass and Trio Villages in the Stann Creek and Toledo Districts respectively to meet with residents in an effort to rectify problems which arose when the People’s United Party attempted to gain political mileage using lands as a bargaining chip. In Silk Grass, back in January of 2007, just a month before the general elections, 162 lots were issued out to villagers without the survey of the land having gone through the proper authentication process. Without this, residents were unable to acquire legitimate land documents and pay appropriate property taxes. Similarly in Trio Village, 261 lots were issued and also required regularization. Since the problem arose, the Ministry of Natural Resources & Agriculture took corrective measures and conducted investigations into the matter where it was determined that a private surveyor had been contracted to do the survey of the land in Silk Grass, however the survey plans were never completed yet lots were issued out.

Old School blasted Uprising in Vega Cup Tournament
The 2014 Vega Cup Tournament, which is sponsored by the Hon. Gaspar Vega, Deputy Prime Minister of Belize, continued on Sunday, September 28, with a number of games on the schedule. The games were played at two locations in the Orange Walk North Constituency. In the games played at Trial Farm Football Field, in game one, San Juan blanked AC Aliari by the score of 4-0. The goals for San Juan were scored by Jair Blanco in the 34th minute of play, Reynalso Mendez in the 40th minute of play, Juan Acosta in the 55th minute of play and an autogoal in the 69th minute of play. In the second game of the day, United Ballers won over Awe V. United by the score of 4-1. The goals for United Ballers were scored by Nathiel Williams in the 13th minute of play, Kadir Galindo in the 42nd minute of play, Alfredo Popper in the 80th minute of play and Andrew Allen in the 87th minute of play. For Awe V. United, the only goal of the game was scored by Osmar Duran in the 10th minute of play.

Blue Marlin to become a true Boulevard
Blue Marlin Boulevard - is that by name only but within the next few weeks the street will truly become what its name suggests as Mayor Darrell Bradley pushes ahead to concrete more streets in Belize City. According to the mayor, work will commence shortly on the street to convert it into a concreted two lane boulevard. It will feature earthen drainage a median and of course concrete carriageways. Ground will be officially broken on Thursday October 9 and BWS work crews will move in to do the water installation after which the contractor, RJB will move in to do the work. According to the mayor, the project will cost somewhere around 850 thousand dollars and will see the expansion of the road to include what is currently the shoulder but which has always been reserved to be a part of the road.

Belize City Council recognizes senior citizens
Last week the country observed international week for the elderly and one organization that took time out to acknowledge those who have contributed to the country in the past was the Belize City Council. On Friday, October 3rd the council invited 75 senior citizens to enjoy a day at BTL park. They were treated to an entire day of activities including a city tour, snacks and lunch. While at the park the senior citizens were serenaded by the old school sounds of Jorge Ernnesto Babb and they took to the floor and danced to the best tunes ever made. While the outing was good for the senior citizens among us, what was evident is that they unlike any other group is challenged by incapacity; there were many who were wheel chair bound, had difficulty in moving around and some were blind. We don't contemplate or realize that from the minute we are born we begin to age, that is just the nature of life and the Belize City Council's gesture sure acknowledged this and if even for one day treated the oldsters as if they were young again.

In the dumpster looking for candidates
The PUP leader is down on all fours, we hear him on television stating that by October he would have the slate ready to run in the municipal elections in Belize City. From what we are told however it is quite a task for that to be accomplished since even the rats and roaches are running away from that party. We hear stories of them going around offering money for candidates to run for them but even that is not incentive enough for anyone to want to be the sacrificial lamb. After all, we know of the work and accomplishments of the Belize City Council and Mayor Darrell Bradley and it would really be a fool who would want to walk up to that long list of accomplishments and expect to outdo it.

World Mental Health Day October 10th 2014
The Ministry of Health celebrates World Mental Health Day this year with a national ceremony at the Welcome Resource Center, Belize City on Friday, October 10th starting at 10:30 a.m. The theme this year “Living with Schizophrenia”, seeks to focus attention on Schizophrenia and the burden of stigma that persons with this illness face. Schizophrenia is a serious but treatable mental illness. It affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. An affected person finds it difficult to tell the difference between real and imagined experiences, to think logically, express feelings, or how to behave appropriately. For the millions of people worldwide living with this disorder, there are treatments that can help to reduce symptoms and improve the ability to function at home, at work, and at school. A major barrier to achieving recovery is the social attitude and stigma associated with Schizophrenia and other mental illnesses. Mental Health Units across the country have developed awareness campaigns and activities for this week leading up to the observation of the day.

Tourism Cooperation agreed between Mexico and Belize
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation of Belize and the Secretariat of Tourism of the United Mexican States on “Cooperation in the Field of Tourism” on October 3, 2014. Honorable Manuel Heredia Jr, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation of Belize and Secretario Jose Antonio Meade Kuribrena, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Mexican States, signed the MOU during the closing session of the “VIII Meeting of the Belize-Mexico Binational Commission” held on October 2nd and 3rd at the Ramada Hotel in Belize City, Belize. The objective of the MOU is “to develop and strengthen the cooperation between the Parties (Belize and Mexico) in the field of tourism, based on equal rights and mutual benefit, in compliance with their respective national legislation and international commitments undertaken by the Parties.”

Police Officer Arrested for Stealing During Search
Police Constable Jamil Scott is out on bail after he was arraigned at the Belize City Magistrates Court for stealing jewelry from Randolph Gentle while conducting a search of his residence. Scott was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith where he was charged with two counts of theft. Allegations are that on Sunday, September 28, he stole a wrist watch valued at $180 and a ring valued at $120 while in a search operation at Gentle’s residence. According to reliable reports, when the matter was reported to police all officers in the operation were cautioned not to leave the station. We are told that Scott snuck out and was tailed by officers who followed him to his girlfriend Chelsea Zapeta. There they found the missing items as well as a black hand-held radio valued at $650 which is the property of the Belize Police Department.

Gerald Palmer executed during blackout
Belize City resident Gerald Palmer became the victim of a street execution on Thursday night, October 2, 2014, during a country wide blackout. His family is now devastated, and the only reasons they can come up with as to why he was killed is that it may be related to his younger brother’s enemies. This young sibling is currently on remand awaiting trial after being accused of shooting a man with a sawed off shotgun. 27 year-old Gerald Palmer’s killer found him at the corner of Grants and Cards Alleys, near Barrack Road. He was walking in the dark at around 9:15 p.m., the gunman took aim and shot him 5 times. The first shot reportedly caught him in the leg, and he tried to flee from his attacker, but he didn’t get far because the gunman fired 5 more times, 4 of which caught him in different areas of the body.

Jude Pennil in Jail for Stabbing Richard Smith
Jude Pennil, 41, of a Button Wood Bay address is in jail after he was arraigned in the Belize City Magistrates Court for dangerous harm upon Richard Smith. According to reports, on Saturday, October 4, both men were drinking in the Belama area when they got into an argument. The situation escalated and an altercation resulted in Pennil stabbing Richard Smith multiple times, the most serious is a stab wound to the chest. Smith remains in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. In Court on Monday, October 6, Pennil was unrepresented and pleaded not guilty to the charge. He said, “The young boy had a gun on me and I took away the gun from him.” Court Prosecutor Christopher Smith objected to bail on the seriousness of the charge. He says the victim is still in a critical condition and Pennil may not show up to court on his adjournment dates. Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith upheld the prosecutor’s objection and remanded Pennil to the Belize Central Prison until November 17.

Enrique Pook Jr., 22, on Reman for Sex with Girl, 13,
Enrique Pook Jr, 22, is on remand at the Belize Central Prison for allegedly engaging in sexual intercourse with a girl who is 13 years 9 months old. According to the girl, on September 27 of this year she had sexual intercourse with Pook Jr. The matter was reported to police and Pook Jr. was arrested and charged with unlawful sexual intercourse since the girl is under the age of consent. He was taken before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith on Wednesday, October 08. Pook Jr. was unrepresented and no plea was taken since the matter is an indictable offense. Bail cannot be granted at the Magistrates Court for such offenses; therefore, Chief Magistrate Smith ordered that Pook Jr. be remanded at the Belize Central prison until his next court appearance scheduled for November 26.

The fast life catches up with Lincoln Sabido
Lincoln Sabido, a man who has had a few run-ins with police, and who was acquitted of 2 separate murders, was gunned down and killed on Saturday, October 4, at around 10 p.m. Police haven’t released much information about how he was killed, but there is reason to believe that he was lured to his death. He received at text message from a female, who requested that he goes to Flamboyant Street. That’s one block away from his Moya Street house, and men who may have known that he would show, immediately began firing shots at him. Sabido was injured multiple times, and shortly after, residents tried to rush him to seek medical help. Unfor-tunately, he died on the way. His family has refused to comment to the press, but it is important to note that he was charged in 2007 and 2008, but he was acquitted both times. He was brought back before the court in May of this year after he was accused of robbing a Chinese store owner at gunpoint. He was still awaiting trial for this charge, and he was out on bail when the gunman killed him.

St. Catherine Academy and Belize High School boys lead in high school volleyball competition
The Central Region Secondary Schools Volleyball Competition continues at the Bird’s Isle. On Monday, October 6, in the first of two female games, St. Catherine Academy defeated Ladyville Technical by the score of 25-3 and 25-11. In the second female game, Belize High School defeated Wesley College in two sets by the score of 25-7 and 25-3. And in the male competition, Ladyville Technical defeated Maud Williams High School by the score of 25-22 and 25-18. On Friday October 3, in female game one Pallotti High School defeated Wesley College by the score of 25-23, and 27-25. In female game two, Anglican Cathedral College defeated Sadie Vernon Technical in two sets by the score of 25-21, 25-15.

Belize Preparing for EBOLA
There is no known case of Ebola in Belize and there has never been a reported case of the virus here in the jewel. However, the Ministry of Health has increased surveilance as the virus has now crossed oceans from West Africa to North America. There is now one confirmed case of Ebola in the United States and, though Dr. Michael Pitts, Director of Health Services, says there is a “low risk” of it affecting Belize, the Ministry of Health is working with the Immigration Department and other authorities to monitor the migration of people through our ports of entry. Dr. Pitts says the Ministry is asking the Immigration Department to “help identify people coming from high-risk countries and notify us.” Pitts says under public health laws the Government has the right to quarantine a person/persons posing a risk to the general public. “We know that we have people from Nigeria travelling in and out of the country,” Pitts says but there has not been a system in place to record such visits.

Facey Guatemalans threaten conservation outpost
A group of 40 Guatemalans living in La Rejoya Village which is right at the edge of the Belize/Guatemala Border, made an armed incursion into Belizean territory on Friday, October 3. Their purpose was to send a statement to the Belizean Military that they refuse to stand by and watch Belize build a Conservation Outpost near to their village. This facility, called the Valentin Conservation Outpost, is one of 3 border facilities that the Prime Minister had given his commitment to see completed so that the Belizean authorities can protect the territorial integrity of the Chiquibul National Park, and the Caracol Archaeological Reserve. Valentin is located in Western Belize, and is about 1 kilometer away from the Border, but in Belizean Territory. That didn't stop these villagers, who were armed with sticks, machetes, and guns when they marched up to the Belizean carpenters, who were hard at work, and their BDF escorts to demand that work be halted on the building, or they would burn it down by force. After an exchange with the Belizean military personnel who were present, the Guatemalan villagers retreated.

Freedom of Speech Under Attack UNIBAM Threatens Beenie Man Concert
There were many who urged Belizean promoters to stand beside Marine Promotions when the Catholic Church took out an injunction to cancel the “Alkaline Live Life” show in Cayo. No other promoter came out in support of Martin Castillo and company and their show was eventually censored. That censorship order from the Supreme Court of Belize set precedent for future events and now counsel for the United Belize Advocacy Movement (UNIBAM) has written to the sponsors and organizers of the “Bobby Chin’s Birthday Bash” to express concern about the lyrics used by entertainers headlining the event. Bobby Chin’s real name is Robert Lee and he is best known for his work with Black Chiney Sounds. Lee’s birthday bash is scheduled for October 18 at the Cahal Pech Resort in Cayo. Headlining the event is Jamaican superstar entertainer Anthony Moses Davis, better known as Beenie Man. UNIBAM’s letter says that the organization is "...concerned that both 'Beenie Man' and Robert Lee, a.k.a. 'Bobby Chin' of Black Chiney Sound will make statements/sing and/or perform lyrics an acts that incite the murder/harm/disrespect of the Police, advocate for the murder of His Holiness the Pope, incite and advocate the hate/harm or murder of LGBT persons and promote harm and/or forcible sexual acts against women/girls and/or misogynistic in nature."

Elections of Lands Advisory Committee in the Village of San Jose Nuevo Palmar in Orange Walk District
The Ministry of Natural Resources & Agriculture informs the general public of the results of elections held on Sunday 5th October, 2014 in San Jose Nuevo Palmar in Orange Walk East for the Lands Advisory Committee. The Minister of Natural Resources & Agriculture, as agent of the trustee, the Government of Belize, appointed the Commissioner of Lands & Survey to administer that election process, in collaboration with the Elections & Boundaries Department. Of the 472 voter pool created by traditional and elected leaders of the village of San Jose Nuevo Palmar, 341 ballots were cast. Three (3) committee members were elected out of the six (6) candidates. These were Lorenzo Aldana, Adolfo Cantun and Hermenehildo Moh. These elected committee members will join three (3) elders of the village and an ex-officio member from the Village Council to make up the 7-seat committee who will serve a two (2) year term.

Central America Refocuses on Social Integration
From day one, December 13, 1991, when the Protocol of Tegucigalpa was signed to promote regional cooperation for peace, political freedom, democracy and economic development in Central America, regional leaders knew the success of the union would depend largely on the social development and integration of our people. More than two decades later, social development seems to have taken a backstage to everything else. The body organized to promote social development and integration within SICA is the Council on Social Integration (CIS). The Council on Social Integration in Central America is holding its 62nd Ordinary Meeting on “la Isla Bonita”, the island of San Pedro, Belize. The focus of the meeting is a call for greater cooperation to develop member country’s human resources. In his address to Government leaders of the region, Hon. Mark King, Minister of State in the Ministry of Human Development and Social Transformation, says, “As human beings we seem to instinctively understand fundamental principles such as ‘safety in numbers’.” He stressed that cooperation is important for small states like the members of Central America; especially for a goal as important as the social development of our people.

Land Inspection Sweep – Belize District
The Ministry of Natural Resources & Agriculture informs the general public that Lands & Survey Department Officials will be conducting Field Inspection Sweeps throughout the Belize District during the week commencing Monday 6th October, 2014. The Ministry is deploying resources to finalize 435 lands inspections for residents of the Belize District. The Ministry continues to hold these exercises throughout the country in its ongoing effort to regularize and secure land rights and access for all Belizeans.

Burglary Ring Broken in Santa Elena, Cayo
A burglary ring which had been operating unimpeded for the months of August and September of this year in the Town of Santa Elena in the Cayo District has been broken by San Ignacio Police. Two persons have been arrested in this latest case and for the past week that the arrests had been made, no report of additional burglaries has been received by San Ignacio Police. Victor Hutchison 43 years of age, resident of La Loma Luz Boulevard has been arrested and charged for one count of burglary. He has been remanded to prison until November of this year. Another person charged in the same link-up was Mike Middleton, for handling a number of stolen goods. This ring specialized in the collection of house hold goods, which would bring in a profitable margin.

Shakeem Humes Charged for Assault with a Firearm
Shakeem Humes, 21, an associate of the George Street Gang is in prison for allegedly assaulting Carlos Lorenzo Mckenzie with a firearm in July of this year. On Monday, October 6, Humes was taken to the Belize City Magistrates Court where he was charged with one count of aggravated assault with a firearm upon Mckenzie. It is alleged that Humes assaulted Mckenzie with a firearm on July 20. He appeared before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith where he pleaded not guilty to the charge. Due to the nature of the offense, no bail could be offered since the incident allegedly occurred with the use of a firearm. Humes was ordered to be remanded at the Belize Central Prison until November 17.

Ron Myvette Charged for Attempted Murder of Calbert BuddOn the weekend of Friday, August 7, to Sunday, August 10, 2014 a total of seven persons were injured in shootings across the city. Luckily for one well-known street figure, he survived the attempt on his life. 33-year-old Calbert Budd Jr., brother of the late Marlon Budd, was shot in the left elbow on Sunday, August 10, at around 7:30 p.m. After almost two months of investigating, police believe they have cracked the case. Ron Blain Anthony Myvette was arraigned in the Belize City Magistrates Court on Friday, October 3, and slapped with five criminal offenses, including attempted murder. Myvette was unrepresented when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith and was read charges of attempted murder, dangerous harm and use of deadly means of harm upon Calbert Budd Jr. He was also charged for discharging a firearm in a public place, on Antelope Street in Belize City, and one count of aggravated assault with a firearm upon Gareth Hemmans, cousin of Calbert Budd Jr.

Attempted murder and suicide in Seine Bight
The Village of Seine Bight, which is known as a serene location just outside the popular Placencia Village continues to recover from the disturbing incident where one of its well-known members stabbed his common-law wife and then committed suicide. That man is 33 year-old Byron Castillo, a former teacher from the St. Alphonsus Primary School, who gained prestige in the village as an excellent educator. The incident happened at the bus stop in the village where his common-law wife, 34 year-old Nicole Swazo, was sitting with her children. Residents say that at around 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, October 4, he went over to the bus stop, and the couple had a lengthy discussion for over an hour or so. Those who were around say that they weren’t paying the couple mind because it was obvious that they were having a domestic fight, which was their own business. Suddenly, however, the residents heard Swazo screaming, and when they looked over, they reportedly saw Byron Castillo standing over her. He allegedly stabbed her multiple times in the chest and neck, and when residents in the area responded, he ran off.

Police Officers in Jail for Search Turned Armed Robbery
Police Constables Jefferson Dawson, 23, and Eber Depaz, 23, were arraigned in the Belize City Magistrates Court on Friday, October 3, for the armed robbery of Tremaine Ciego. Tremaine Ciego, 22, gas attendant of Belize City, says that he had just gone to purchase a fried chicken and soft drink after collecting his pay on Sunday, September 28, when he was stopped by two police officers at the corner of Central American Boulevard and North Creek. Ciego says the officers held him at gunpoint and punched him to the ground. They then beat him while on the street and one allegedly took away his week’s pay. The matter was reported to the Professional Standards Branch of the Belize Police Department and an investigation led to the identification and arrest of Dawson and Depaz.

Harrison Smith ambushed and killed on Pickstock Street
There was as shooting on Friday night, October 2, which left 1 Belize City man dead, and another injured. Police have quickly arrested 3 men, who are now remanded, but the families of the accused say that they have an indisputable alibi which the police ignored. The deadly incident happened on the corner of North Front and Pickstock Streets. 32 year-old Harrison Smith was riding his bicycle, when 2 men ambushed him and began firing shots at him sometime around 8:15 p.m. Smith was injured several times to different areas of his body; 23 year-old Eustace Lewis was in the area at the time, and he was also injured by one of the bullets which hit him in the buttocks. Doctors from the KHMH worked on Smith for about an hour and a half, but his injuries were too extensive. He ended up succumbing while Lewis, who was also injured in that shooting, was admitted in a stable condition.

Belize Bank Bulldogs National Softball Champions of Belize
The XXIV National Women’s Softball championship, which was played from October 3-5, 2014 at Rogers Stadium, is now history. A total of twelve games were played over two and a half days of competition. On Sunday October 5, 2014, in the twelfth and final game, which was the championship, the Belize Bank Bulldogs defeated Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy who was playing from the losers’ bracket by the score of 7-3 to capture its first national title. Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy batting in the top of the 2nd inning scored the 1st run of the game when shortstop Shadalee Ho opened the inning with an infield single to shortstop Sharette Vernon, Ho later scored to give her team a 1-0 lead. The Belize Bank Bulldogs batting in the bottom of the 2nd inning scored when the Designated Player, Nicole Arnold reached on the second baseman fielding error and later scored when right fielder Kiri Lizama reached on the third baseman error.

National Cycling Team leaves for Puerto Rico today
The Cycling Federation of Belize will have representation at the Annual Caribbean Elite Cycling Championship which is a qualifier for the Central American and Caribbean Games scheduled for Vera Cruz, Mexico in November of 2014 and the Pan American Games scheduled for Toronto, Canada in 2015. The federation will be represented by its National Cycling Team, which is made up of Marlon Castillo, Darnell Barrow, Joel Borland, Giovanni Lovell, Geovanni Choto, Kaya Cattouse, Patricia Chavarria and Alicia Thompson. The team is scheduled to leave this morning October 9, on American Airlines for San Juan, Puerto Rico. While in Puerto Rico, the team will compete in Road Race and the Individual Time Trial. We wish the Belize Team all the best for a great performance.

St. Catherine Academy and Belize High School boys lead in high school volleyball competition
The Central Region Secondary Schools Volleyball Competition continues at the Bird’s Isle. On Monday, October 6, in the first of two female games, St. Catherine Academy defeated Ladyville Technical by the score of 25-3 and 25-11. In the second female game, Belize High School defeated Wesley College in two sets by the score of 25-7 and 25-3. And in the male competition, Ladyville Technical defeated Maud Williams High School by the score of 25-22 and 25-18. On Friday October 3, in female game one Pallotti High School defeated Wesley College by the score of 25-23, and 27-25.

Sugar City Girls lead in the FFB Women President’s Cup Tourney
The Football Federation of Belize Women President’s Cup Tournament continued over the weekend with 2 games on the schedule. On Saturday, October 4, at the Ladyville Football Field, the visiting Sugar City Girls defeated Smart Millennium by the score of 3-1. The goals for Sugar City Girls were scored by Vanessa Mai in the 17th minute of play and the 65th minute of play, and Karen Garcia in the 20th minute of play. For Smart Millennium, the only goal of the game was scored by Melonie Bryant in the 71st minute of play. For Sunday October 5, at the Toledo Union Field, Toledo Strikers won over Dangriga Pumas via the default route. The score was 3-0 in favour of the Toledo Strikers.

Finding the Balance
There is always tension between the pull of the past and the draw of the future. Even in closed societies, such as the few remaining isolated indigenous tribes and the exclusive groups favoured by some religious sects, there is always the possibility of defection, especially of the young or disadvantaged. This tension frequently pits comfortable elites against the struggles of common people and more cautious older folk against the impetuous young. A total win for either side would be disastrous resulting in either a closed society living in a past that was never as glorious as it is remembered or a rootless society estranged from its culture and history. The trick is to find the balance and it helps to recognize that neither side is as monolithic as it might at first appear. Those who deny scientific insights in general and the science of climate change and evolution in particular are usually more than willing to accept the scientific knowledge inherent in modern medical practice, transport and technology. Revolutionaries, whether religious, social or political, fervently nurture their own history and culture.

Patrick Jones

Woman’s decomposed body found in Corozal cane field
The decomposed body of a Corozal woman was found in a cane field on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities identified the body as that of 63 year old Anita Che. According to reports received, Che was last seen alive on Tuesday of last week. Family members reportedly thought she had gone to visit with other family members in Belmopan as was apparently planned. But that notion changed when Che’s son Manuel Hernandez got a telephone call inquiring about the whereabouts of his mother.

Friends for Conservation and Development raises funds to save Chiquibul
The NGO Friends for Conservation and Development has had its public profile raised as defender of the massive Chiquibul National Park and separate Forest Reserve, which has seen numerous incursions from Guatemalan peasants in the last few years. As a result of the death of Special Constable Danny Conorquie, who as a member of the Tourism Police Unit assisted FCD in surveying and monitoring the Caracol Archaeological Site which falls next to the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, renewed emphasis has been placed on stopping the incursions and securing national territory. But FCD has a grave financial problem – through a recent grant from the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), it has enough money to keep on four of its seven certified park rangers the band which monitors the area for conservation purposes.

Gary Seawell to fight extradition in Court of Appeal
Earlier this year, Gary Gordon Seawell accused of drug trafficking lost his fight to avoid extradition to the U.S. state of Ohio. There he faces conspiracy and drug-related charges. But he has not given up and today he served notice of taking that fight to the Court of Appeal. Seawell’s new attorney Anthony Sylvestre says the application for leave to appeal has been filed and awaits a response from the Government. It will be heard on November 10.

Blogs

SALAD BAR – SPINACH AND STRAWBERRY
Grate zest from lemon to equal 2 tsp.; squeeze juice from lemon to equal 2 Tbsp. Combine lemon zest, juice, tomatoes, and next 8 ingredients in a large bowl. Let stand 10 minutes. Toss with crumbled feta just before serving.

Halloween is Serious Business on Ambergris Caye – Come On Down!
Halloween is a big deal in San Pedro. I could spend a few paragraphs with boring information about the origins of the holiday – both religious and harvest based. Or speculate how it made its way down to Belize (maybe a partying pirate ship? or some Christian missionaries?) but I think it’s best to be upfront about this. Belize LOVES a reason to party. And add in dressing up? I’m surprised Halloween didn’t originate in these parts. The decorations are up at the Holiday Hotel – they host the biggest people-party each year…

A Tourist Guide: Everything to Know About Belize
With less language barrier to overcome than anywhere else in Central America, Belize is a great vacation destination. It might be the most expensive country in the region, but its reliable public transport and many restaurants and hotels make it a great place for independent travel. Belize is home to some of the most breath-taking sceneries in their part of the world. It has thick forests enveloping the southern and western regions with tall and sparsely populated Maya Mountains, as well as clear blue waters surrounding the Belize Barrier Reef with three of the four coral atolls in the Caribbean. Most visitors from Belize fly to Belize, arriving in Belize City. All flights originate in the United States. However, it is mostly cheaper to fly to southern Mexico and ride a bus to Belize. You can also go to Belize via Guatemala by land or by boat from Honduras. Local airlines operate daily from Flores in Guatemala to Belize City. The country has three major highways, but majority of the country is well served by public transport. There are several ways to go around Belize.

Want to know why we are culling Lionfish, read this article by Polly Alford, ReefCI Director and Lionfish Hunter!
Most people know by now that Lionfish (Pterois Volitans) are an invasive species in the Caribbean! They are a beautiful fish and do not cause a problem in their native environment where they have natural predators. They are native to the Indo-pacific oceans and the Red sea. Introducing the Lionfish to the Atlantic and Caribbean has turned out to be one of the cruelest and potentially catastrophic tricks ever played on an ecosystem! Invasive lionfish are out-breeding, out-competing and out-living native fish stocks and other marine species. The consequences impact the food security and economies affecting over a hundred million people.

A corporate refugee joins the Wildtracks Team....Anna I.
A couple of months ago I quit my job, packed up my cubicle, and said goodbye to corporate America. I had been working in the cube farm for a year, and decided that it was time for me to pursue my passion of working with animals, and to put my biological anthropology degree to good use. I arrived at Wildtracks not knowing what to expect, and I came across something truly amazing. Paul, Zoe, and a group of volunteers who were wholeheartedly dedicated to the care, nurturing, and well being of monkeys and manatees. I met people from all over the world who were passionate about wildlife conservation, and wanted to help provide former pets and stranded animals with the highest quality care so that they may one day thrive in the wild. Having never worked with monkeys or manatees in the past, everything seemed quite foreign to me. On my first day here I swam with a manatee for the first time in my life. Within three days of being here I was sitting in a manatee pool at 3AM while on night watch with Lucky.

What is it like to drive in Belize? Is it safe?
I am getting this question often from travelers-nearly everyone flies into Belize International Airport, and from there, you can rent a car. If you are going to the Cayes, you can take the water taxi or a puddle jumper flight (Tropic or Maya Air), if you are going to San Ignacio or Placencia (or anywhere else inland), you can rent a car or take a puddle jumper. Many people who come to Belize don't just go to one location though-one of the greatest things about choosing Belize is that you can do an island adventure trip, jungle adventures, Mayan ruins, and beach relaxing all on one trip. Belize is small, and relatively easy to get everywhere. The first time we came, we rented a car at the airport and drove around the whole country; it was a fantastic experience.

Of all the cities in the world, what are the top ten reasons why someone should vacation in Placencia, or even move there?
Let's get right to it. No place is perfect, and vacationing vs. living somewhere would require different checklists. Also, what is paradise to one person, is not paradise to another. But what is going on in Placencia, that made it feel so magical to us, and to many people that come down here? We meet people every week who, after visiting, are now on a house hunt. The whole village is on a verge of an even bigger explosion of growth, with several huge projects in the works. **most pictures borrowed from google, but all represent realistic portrayals :) 1.) The peninsula is very special and unique. We drove onto the peninsula the first time we came. The drive is so gorgeous and special....you go from watching the Maya Mountains, which look like Hawaii, to driving through what feels like a North Carolina shoreline.....to arriving at Hilton Head-like homes (Plantation area and North)....to driving through Maya Beach, which looks and feels like 1940's Florida (at least what I imagine it did :) ), to seeing authentic Belize culture in Seine Bight.

A trip review of a weekend on the island of Roatan, Honduras!
Dave, Chris, Sonia, and I went to Roatan, Honduras over the weekend--the goal being to add another country to our lists as none of us have been there, and to compare it to Placencia, as it has a lot of the same features. Honduras gets a bit of a bad rap online as being very dangerous; it has the highest murder rate in the world. We did not go to the mainland for this reason; we heard enough reviews from other travelers that unless you go with someone who knows what they are doing, you might want to stick to Roatan. I can't speak for the mainland (although I have heard it is quite inexpensive but a lot of poverty) and we will go at some point-but we only had a quick weekend so there wasn't time for all of it.

The truth about things people worry about when they come to Belize-Crime, Bugs, Hurricanes, WIFI....
Now that we are booking guests, I am seeing the concerns and questions people have about coming down to Belize. This is going to read more like a book report and not so much for entertainment, but still was an important blog I have been wanting to write :) The most common concerns are: How safe is it? Are the bugs bad? Are the critters in general bad? Can I get good wifi? Are there a lot of power outages? How bad is rainy season/is there a chance of a hurricane? I did about a year of research on Belize before moving here, then asked a thousand questions to expats who lived here, and then have lived here pretty much since February. This is not a lifetime of research but a decent sample size :)

International Sources

American Airlines: Latin America, Caribbean Traffic Continues Slide
American Airlines Group saw another year-over-year monthly decline in Latin America and Caribbean traffic in September, according to the company’s latest traffic report. Revenue passenger miles to the Latin America and Caribbean region fell by 3.4 percent to 2.029 billion, down from 2.101 billion in September 2013. Fort he year, traffic to the region is still in the black, though down to 1.3 percent over the first nine months of 2013. The region’s decline was the second-largest of any region for the US carrier, following the Atlantic region. Overall, the carrier saw a 0.2 percent reduction in revenue passenger miles in September, with a total of just under 16.86 billion. The data includes American Airlines and United Airlines traffic.

Bartling Benefactor For Belize
Long-time University of Sioux Falls theatre professor and former O'Gorman teacher Kim Bartling is a familiar face to many in Sioux Falls. While she's no longer teaching here, she is still caring for students a world away. A vacation turned into an effort to transform lives in Belize. Paradise beckoned Kim Bartling on one of South Dakota's 30-degrees-below-zero day, after putting in 14 hours on the job at USF. "Looked it up and it was 80 degrees and the airfare was $520. And I found it to be a sign from God and I decided to go to Belize to find out what to do with the next part of my life," Bartling said. Bartling ended up in Ambergris Caye, an island off of mainland Belize. She bought jewelry from local children who sold it to support their families, and she played theatre games with them. Then one day she followed them home.

Jim Can, wanted in Belize tax scheme, disputes allegations
The Canadian businessman wanted as part of a giant U.S. investigation involving stock fraud, tax evasion and money laundering in Belize says in an email to CBC News that he wants to tell his "full true story … that will shock the world." Jim Can has a controversial past in Canada, including allegations he was involved in the kidnapping of a Calgary businessman who was held at gunpoint by two associates of the Hells Angels, CBC News reported Thursday. Can faces several charges in the U.S. following a two-year undercover investigation by the FBI and the United States Attorney.

The Chocolate Revolution: Central American Start-Up Seeks To Grow Sustainable Cocoa Production
We have a chocolate problem. And it’s not just about the impact it will have on our waists this Halloween. It’s even bigger than that. Here are the top three most important things chocolate lovers need to know: Smallholder cocoa farmers are underpaid and impoverished: Ninety percent of the world’s cocoa is produced by five million small-producer farmers in West Africa, Latin America, and Asia. These farmers are getting minimal pay, with the majority of cocoa farmers globally living on less than $2 per day. Farmer poverty is widespread, while big manufacturers are capturing the vast majority of profits from the nearly $100 billion global chocolate industry. Demand for cocoa is growing, but farmer income isn’t improving: An estimated 4.4 million tons of cocoa (or cacao) are produced every year. That demand is expected to grow over 30 percent in the next five years as countries like China, India, and Brazil start eating more chocolate. The majority of farmers are unlikely to see the benefit of this growing market. In fact, many farmers have given up on cocoa and switched to other more lucrative, often environmentally destructive crops like palm oil. The average age of a cocoa farmer in West Africa, which produces about 70 percent of the world’s cocoa, is 51—which means farmers’ kids are abandoning the crop. So unless you’re paying more for your chocolate bar and know where your chocolate maker is sourcing their cocoa, unfortunately you’re probably just feeding (and eating) the problem.

Cinque curiosità sui droni volanti che salvano la Barriera Corallina di Belize
I droni sono forse l'esempio più bello e interessante del progresso compiuto dagli esseri umani in ambito tecnologico; ne esistono di varie tipologie e tutti sono deputati a compiti diversi: c'è il robot che ora consegna le medicine in un'isoletta a Nord della Germania; c'è quello che aiuta la polizia francese e c'è persino quello che consegna gli smartphone: tutti sistemi che saranno perfezionati col tempo e che, piuttosto che sostituire l'uomo - come già azzarda qualcuno - riusciranno a migliorarne notevolmente la vita. Quello di oggi è uno dei tanti casi, ma ci ha colpito particolarmente: il numero di ottobre di Focus, infatti, parla di droni che salvano i coralli; se non ne sapete nulla, siete capitati nel posto giusto:

Cuban Doctors at the Forefront of Ebola Battle in Africa
With risks growing that Ebola could flare on foreign shores, the U.S. is calling for nations to dispatch doctors and nurses to West Africa, where thousands of lives are on the line. Few have heeded the call, but one country has responded in strength: Cuba. In the weeks since U.S. President Barack Obama sent the first of nearly 4,000 troops to West Africa, the struggle to quell Ebola has created odd bedfellows. Perhaps none is quite so odd as the sight of Cuban doctors joining forces with the U.S. military to combat Ebola in West Africa. Cuba has long had an antagonistic relationship with its northern neighbor, the U.S. Aspiring global heavyweights China, India and Russia have done plenty of business in Africa, but their contributions to fighting the Ebola epidemic have been underwhelming thus far. And nations with some of the world’s most advanced health-care systems have come too late with too little to the crisis, said leaders from Ebola-affected countries.

Videos

Video: GMOs&Sustainable; Farming in Belize Reportage, 37min.
from PGTV News Network

Video: Playmates at Play in Belize, 3min.
Jaime Edmondson and Lauren Anderson

Video: CREATURES AND WAVES, 2.5min.
Creatures and waves, video que filme en un viaje Centro Americano. Específicamente en Panamá (Bocas de Toro), Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Belize y Mexico. Lo grabe con una Gopro Hero 3 black edition para las tomas acuáticas y una cannon 7d para las tomas de tierra y Olas. Espero les guste las tomitas// and Enjoy the Ride.

Video: New NOT IN MY CITY CAMPAIGN 2014 TV ADVERT, 1min.
Belize Police Department.

Video: Belize currency old collection, 3.5min.

Video: (New) American Airlines 737-800 Wet Landing in Belize (BZE), 7.5min.
Landing Belize from Miami. Has all features as I said in the last takeoff vid from Miami. Taken on October 9,2014.

Video: Street Segments: Treasure Hunt Challenge (Belize EXPO 2014), 3min.

Video: Belize Reggae, 3min.
acoustic alternative.

Video: Street Segments: Jalapeño Challenge 2 (Belize City), 3min.

October 9, 2014

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 and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Taiwanese Ambassador and CATO members visit San Pedro
The Ambassador of the Republic of China in Taiwan to Belize, His Excellency Benjamin Ho and his wife were on a working visit on Ambergris Caye. During his one day visit, Ho met with the Mayor of San Pedro Town Daniel Guerrero and members of the San Pedro Town Council. The visit took place on Sunday September 28th and was part of the country’s 2014 Business and Investment Mission to Belize organized by the Central American Trade Office (CATO). As part of the delegation, Ho was accompanied by representatives of SpeedTech Energy and Sunmed Medical Group. Representatives of the two companies made presentations about their products and line of service. The intention was for the municipal leaders to see how their products could be used in San Pedro Town. For its part, SpeedTech Energy showcased their green energy source as an alternate for non-renewable sources of energy.

Time for a bike ride
There is truly nothing more fun than a ride down the beaches of our island, taking in the breeze and balancing through sand. At least, these little girls seem to be enjoying their two-wheeled jaunt!

Garbage fished from the sea for International Cleanup Campaign
While the total tally of the amount of garbage recovered from the coastal areas has not been calculated, the amount of garbage recovered paints a sad environmental problem. Humans continue to dump garbage in our planet’s water sources, thus contributing to the deterioration and pollution of the marine ecosystem. Often, hundreds of living things, reptiles, birds and fish associate the garbage as a food source, eventually ingesting the objects and dying due to the toxic components of the garbage. The event highlights the point that more effort is needed to stop humans from dumping garbage, especially into the water sources. It is designed to help build awareness to dispose of garbage the right way. The garbage that was collected was taken to the municipal dump for proper disposal. The organizers would like to thank the organizations and residents that assisted in making the event successful.

Ambergris Today

San Pedro Junior College Donates to Roman Catholic Church
Please allow us a space in your prestigious Newspaper for the following: On September 19, 2014, San Pedro Junior College joined the George Price Centre for Peace and Development in commemorating our National Day of Prayer and Service. We identified a non-profit organization, in this instance, the Roman Catholic Church, to donate our proceeds of the Bar-b-que Sale that we did for the purchase of a new keyboard. We need to mention that on this occasion, the Lion’s Club agreed to assist us in this endeavor as part of their community service. The following was the final breakdown of our fundraiser: Bar-b-que sale--$1040.00; Lion’s chicken ceviche sale--$87.00; Lion’s Bingo--$453.00. Our grand total of this first ever SPJC Community Service was $1,680.00.

Island Benefactor Al Felly Brings Typewriting to San Pedro
Al Felly was no ordinary visitor to San Pedro. He was a professional florist of Madison Wisconsin, and like a regular tourist he loved fishing. However, he fell in love with the children of San Pedro, and when he became connected with them, he really got “hooked.” He visited with me back in 1972 when the school was just commencing. Since then both of us have retired, but the influence is still being felt and enjoyed in San Pedro. In this series we will get to see in how many fashions Al Felly touched the lives of hundreds of Sanpedranos. Today this is his favorite phrase: “I think back when it all started - love it.” Well, I worked all along with Al Felly and his wife Eadie and you are going to get it from the horse’s mouth.

San Pedro Participates in Countrywide Coastal Water Cleanup Day
Every article of trash was recorded and the information will be sent to the Ocean Conservancy to document the state of marine debris in Belizean waters. According to the 2013 data, approximately 9,300 pounds of trash was collected from twenty-seven (27) miles of coastline and waterways in 50 different locations. The trash collected this year from around the country included the usual non-biodegradable suspects: plastics, Styrofoam, aluminum wrappers and paper. But the debris also included things like car parts, tire rims and medical waste. Beyond compromising Belize’s aesthetic beauty, marine debris poses serious threat to fish, seabirds, marine reptiles such as turtles, marine mammals such as dolphins and manatees.

Security Guard Stabbed while Robbers Lose $130K in Failed Robbery Attempt
A San Pedro security guard was left hospitalized on Tuesday, October 7, 2014, after he was stabbed twice while on his way to the bank to make a large deposit. Roberto Assi, a security guard at Milo’s Center located in downtown San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, was on his way to make a deposit for the business at the local Belize Bank branch shortly after midday when he was accosted by two robbers who stabbed him twice in the process. The robbers managed to forcibly remove the money back from the security guard’s grip just a few feet from the bank and then the two men made their way way down Barrier Reef Drive (Front Street) towards the direction of Central Park. Onlookers started pursuing them and during the scuffle of their apprehension, the bag containing $130,000 was torn, spreading money and checks across the street and park area. This is when local vendors and people on the street proceeded to help themselves to the money; so while the robbery was prevented, the money was still lost (or stolen) by residents of the island who were at Central Park.

Misc Belizean Sources

Belize and Mexico sign bilateral agreements
With the signing of three agreements and the announcement of a series of specific actions, the eighth meeting of the Belize-Mexico Bi-National Commission took place last Friday. The Commission is the principal forum for dialogue between the two countries. Foreign Ministers Jose Antonio Meade and Wilfred Erlington led the meeting and announced the results after two days of work in Belize City, signing the following agreements: • Memorandum of understanding in tourism cooperation; • Letter of intent between Mexico and Belize to improve the security and cooperation programs at the maritime borders;

World Food Day 2014
Government of Belize Press Office

World Mental Health Day 2014 October 10th, 2014
The Ministry of Health celebrates World Mental Health Day this year with a national ceremony at the Welcome Resource Center, Belize City on Friday, October 10th starting at 10:30 a.m.

Where to Meet Expats in Punta Gorda, Belize
Unlike the more popular beach towns in Belize, Punta Gorda—in the Toledo District—is seldom crawling with tourists. And you’ll find few expats in Punta Gorda, compared to towns like Corozal, San Pedro, Placencia or San Ignacio. Upon visiting earlier this year, I learned that a growing number of expats are visiting and trying out the region to see if it’s a fit for them. Punta Gorda, often called PG, is not a party town. Actually, many of the expats who live there fulltime own and operate a business. Others are deeply involved in volunteer or nature-related activities. The long-term expats seem to have integrated seamlessly into the local community. So those expats I quizzed had a hard time coming up with “expat hangouts.” They said that they have little time to “hang out”… Although of retirement age, few are retired.

ADVISORY ON PROTEST IN-FRONT OF THE U.S. EMBASSY IN BELMOPAN TODAY
The Government of Belize has granted a request to protest from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in front of the U.S. Embassy, Belmopan, on Thursday October 9, 2014. The protest is in regard to the United States Southern Command-funded Forward Operating base for the Belize Coast Guard on Hunting Caye. Belmopan Police have stated that they expect protesters from multiple civil groups and organizations to attend, but they do not know how many participants will be present. The Embassy recommends that visitors to the Embassy avoid contact with demonstrators if possible and recommends exercising extreme caution when driving in the vicinity of the demonstration. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.

Ministry of Health Fact Sheet on Chikungunya CHIKV!

Ministry of Health Fact Sheet on EBOLA!

BirdSleuth Workshop: Connecting Kids through Birds
As promised, photos from this year's BirdSleuth International two day Workshop held at our field station at Golden Stream on September 29th & 30th! The workshop introduced to primary school teachers a bird-focused environmental education curriculum developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Educaiton Program. And as a follow up to participants from last year, the second day focused getting feedback on experiences with using the curriculum. We are thankful for BirdSleuth International (www.birdsleuth.org), teachers and participants for providing their valuable time to this workshop.

Festival De La Hispanidad Y Mestizaje
Colcha Presents a weekend of Cultural Excitement! Come join of for the following event we have planned: Oct 10th - Historical Lecture - Roy Rodriquez Oct 11th - Hasta la Media Noche Musical Concert Oct 12th Evening of Traditional & Cultural dances and presentations * All event start at 7:30pm Corozal House of Culture (NICH)

Channel 7

Hon. Hulse Hunting For Illegal Labourers At Hunting Caye
Since the murder of Special Constable Danny Conorquie at the Caracol Archaeological Reserve two weeks ago – the entire country has been under a heightened state of security awareness. Which made it the perfect time to find out that a Guatemalan Company, BINARQ, was building the US Funded Coast Guard Forward Operating Base on Hunting Caye in Belizean water. It’s the kind of no brainer that begs the question, “what were they thinking?” by having Guatemalan civilians building a Belizean military facility. Minister of Labour Godwin Hulse, who has been taking a hard line on labour related issues for immigrant workers, told the press today that as soon as he was informed of the Hunting Caye contractual arrangement, he tasked a labour team to investigate whether or not the proper permits were received to get Guatemalan Civilians working at the site. Here's how he explained it:

Saldivar: Why No Red Flags at Hunting Caye
The one minister of Government who did know about the arrangements made for the construction of the Forward Operating Base was John Saldivar, the Minister of National Security. Saldivar hasn't been granting interviews to the press for months, but he agreed to a press encounter today at the ceremony for the Police recruit intake number 90. The media took the opportunity to ask him why a Guatemalan company building the Hunting Caye Facility didn't raise any red flags, and here's how he responded: Alindy Marisol Amaya - News Director, KREM News "In relation to the operating base of the coast guard, in the wake of your comments in the national assembly and those of prime minister Dean Barrow, they have said that, that's not enough, heads should roll because there seems to be the sense that people, or yourself, may have been aware that Guatemalans were in fact constructing it. There is a threat in Guatemalans knowing the ins and outs, the exits of those security facility."

Hon. Lisa Vs. Bobby & Beenie
Yesterday, we told you about the letter that attorney Lisa Shoman wrote to the promoters of the Bobby Chin Birthday Bash Concert, which will take place at Cahal Pech Resort on October 18. The promoters will bring in Jamaican Dancehall Superstar Beenie Man as the headline event, but UNIBAM is demanding that all artists put on a clean show for the concert-goers. The organizations says that Beenie Man or Bobby Chin may, quote, "...make statements/sing, and/or perform lyrics and acts that incite, the murder of His Holiness the Pope, incite and advocate the hate/harm or murder of LGBT persons and promote harm and/or forcible sexual acts against women (and) girls…." End quote. Today we asked Shoman, to explain the legal basis for what, essentially, is censorship: Lisa Shoman, Attorney UNIBAM "It's not about gay people, it's about violence. This addresses violent lyrics and the violence can be expressed towards the police, it could be expressed about the pope, it could be expressed about women, it could be expressed about gay people. So the focus is not the LGBT community, it is a call for there to be no violence, no violent lyrics song, no violence expressed and I think that is a reasonable call.

Beenie Disavows Prejudiced Statements Of Youth
But, truth be told, the allegations of homophobia have dogged Beenie Man as a performer for over a decade now. Gay rights groups – especially in the United States – have been forcing promoters to cancel his shows since the early aughts. It’s affected him big time, and stopped his ascension to status as a marquee entertainment name. In 2012 – he made this statement to appease his critics. It’s relevant now in Belize, and we air it mostly unedited:… Today local promoter Troy Flowers, professionally known as DJ Dalla wasn’t quite so contrite. He said in a statement today, quote, “Stop trying to fight and stifle the entertainment industry…it's a growing industry that puts food on many tables….

San Pedro Robbery Was Both Questionable and Comic
Police have identified a main suspect who they are seeking for a brazen daylight robbery and stabbing yesterday in the heart of San Pedro town. And while initial reports said a security guard was left critical and that he had been robbed of $130,000 thousand dollars – police today told us that the guard only got a flesh wound and an official police report says that 39 thousand dollars in cash was stolen. Privately, police sources have told us that they have their doubts about that figure and are waiting for an accounting from the security company to verify it. Here’s what happened: yesterday afternoon at around 1:30, security guard Cleofosio Robert Assi, was walking from the Western Union Office in downtown San Pedro to the Belize Bank with the money in his backpack. He was going to make a routine deposit, but had no escort and no firearm. Two men attacked him, stabbed at him and wrested away the backpack with the deposit bag. They fled, but according to the San Pedro Sun, townspeople chased them, and detained the bagman at the town’s Central Park.

Police Said Send Five PIV To Prison
Edwin Drive Flowers, known as a prominent figure in the PIV gang. He is joined by 34-year-old Michael Coleman, 23-year-old Emmerson Skyers, 24-year-old Albert Clother, and a 17-year-old minor – all allegedly linked to PIV. The group of five appeared before Chief Magistrate, Anne Marie Smith in Court #1 today where they were all unrepresented. They were jointly read a single charge of professed to be a member of a criminal gang, specifically, Peace In the Village, Bloods. They all pleaded not guilty. There’s no bail for the gang charge and so all 5 were remanded until December 8, 2014. The girlfriend to one of the accused told court reporters that the charges are trumped up because they were all at the home of a contractor getting ready to go to work. We note that Drive Flowers – who was shot has his own small construction company.

What Happened To The Caracol Memo?
A week ago, 7News broke the story of the police memorandum which was sent to the Commissioner of Police, his top officers, and copied to the office of the Director of Tourism, Commissioner of Police, the BTB's Director of Destination Planning, and the Administrator of NICH in January. The Commander of the Tourism Police Unit warned in very stark terms that the Tourism Police Unit's officer were not adequately trained and equipped to secure the Caracol Archaeological Site. That was in January of this year, 8 months before Special Constable Danny Conorquie was killed, yet, no steps were taken to address the recommendations of Assistant Superintendent Diana Hall. She foretold that a tragedy such as this one could take place, and last week when the media questioned the Prime Minister about it, he said that the Minister of National Security was the government official most equipped to deal with those inquiries. That opportunity to ask the National Security Minister about that memo came today, and the media grilled John Saldivar on it. Here's what he said:

American Sicko Says He's Guilty
David Wendell Thompson – he’s the American schoolteacher who was accused of trying to seduce under aged Belizean girls using facebook. Well, the news tonight is that the 49 year old Thompson has signed an agreement to plead guilty to a federal charge of online enticement of children, a charge which carries a maximum penalty of life behind bars. Thompson confessed to talking to two girls in Belize, one 13 and the other 15, using his own Facebook account and a phony account he set up in the name of Iris Levy, which was made to look like the profile of a teen-aged girl in Belize. In facebook chats, he tried to entice the 13 year old into sex, telling her, quote, "But u need help…I want u to have a better life." When the girl said she was worried because she was only 13, Thompson wrote in February, "U promised I could be your first and I felt special…will you still let me?"

Hey, Mr. Carter!
Businessman and former politician Darrell Carter pleaded guilty to two social security offences in court today. Carter was charged for four counts of failing to pay Social Security for his employees in February, March, April and May, 2014. He had pleaded not guilty when the case first came up in August, but today he pleaded guilty to two of four counts. In court, Carter asked for another adjournment because he had to let go his attorney and needed another. But the Chief magistrate refused saying that from August he had ample time to get a new attorney. The Chief told him that she was of the view that the matter did not have to go through a trial since the charges are straightforward, and that he either paid the contribution when he was to pay or he did not. Carter tried to present the case on his own and produced some documents showing that he had been making payments to Social Security Board. Carter maintained that he was innocent and maintained a not guilty plea but when the charges were reread to him and that's when he presented to the court a receipt for two payments which was made yesterday for February and March.

Court Reports Say The Cayo Magistrate Lost Her Cool
Yesterday an accused person appeared before Magistrate Nardia Morgan in San Ignacio Magistrate’s Court for a case of grievous harm. But the arresting officer, a woman constable could not find the medico legal form specifying the injuries. Well, according to reports from inside the courtroom, that sent Magistrate Morgan off! She reportedly slammed a book on the judge’s table – and the book went tumbling to the ground. She then reportedly threw some harsh words and stormed off the bench into her chambers, where she picked up he bag, and marched out through the door, only stopping to tell the defendant to go about her business. Reports say that the tantrum continued outside the courtroom. Since then Morgan has apparently gotten over it and returned to the courtroom but has reportedly banned civilian prosecutor George Lopez form appearing before her for the rest of the year.

Nancy And Don Hector, Damage Diplomacy
As we told you, earlier, Minister of National Security, John Saldivar told the media today that his ministry will look into why the Memo about the security concerns at Caracol were seemingly ignored, which critics say contributed to the unsafe conditions which led to the death of Special Constable Danny Conorquie. Well, The Belize People's Front says that you should join them in Boycotting Guatemala because the Government on that side is not doing enough to help Belize curb the incursions into Belizean territory: Daniel Ortiz Reporting For at least a decade now, Friends for Conservation and Development have been sounding the alarm that Belize loses millions of dollars to Guatemalan poachers. They've been engaging in all different kind of illegal activities in the country's natural reserves along the western boarder. The Belize People's Front says at the state level, the response has been inadiquate.

New Gun Law To Senate
Today, the Senate met to discuss the Amendments to the Firearm Act and the Legal Profession Act. As we've told you, the Government is seeking to rationalize the gun laws so that persons who have been wrongfully detained can get bail. As we've featured in our newscast many times in the past, the gun laws have been criticized as being too oppressive, and today, the Leader of Government Business, Senator Godwin Hulse, told the press that he joins those who have been pushing for this change, even if it is only incremental: Hon. Godwin Hulse, Minister of Immigration "As I said in the senate, let's be clear, I have been on this gun thing forever. You can probably dig in your archives for some of my speeches I gave on it. I've had personal experience or being roughed up by police, arrested and charged and it's not nice and I didn't know what hit me, where this was coming from? So i've been an advocate of this, we have discussed in cabinet in depth.

Belize Trucker Traffic Blocking In Chetumal
A major trucking malfunction caused a Belizean trailer to end up blocking the highway near Subtiniente Lopez in Chetumal yesterday. According to the "Por Esto!, Quintana Roo" newspaper, at around 3 in the afternoon a Belizean driver was transporting tonnes of fencing material to San Ignacio from Chetumal when the trailer suddenly became detached from the truck at the entrance of Chetumal, and was stuck in the road. But with the help of passers-by and enforcement officers, they were able to re-attach the cargo trailer to the truck. That took them about 1 hour.

South Indian Dance In Belize
An Indian dance group is here in Belize for the first time to perform the oldest and most popular South Indian classical dance known as the Bharatanatyam. There is a story behind this highly complex and elegant dance and the dancers discussed that at their rehearsal today. The performance started at 7:30 tonight at the Bliss. Entrance is free.

Immigration Questions Arise Again
Since the Private Prosecution against Elvin Penner failed, immigration matters seemingly have gone cold, but there are reports reaching the media tonight that a senior Immigration Officer from the Benque Viejo Office is being investigate for possible immigration irregularities. The allegations are that the officer facilitated documents for Chinese Nationals not yet in the country. Today the Minister confirmed it for the media: Mike Rudon, Reporter - Channel 5 News "We have been hearing that an immigration officer in Benque is under investigation for her part in facilitating some passports for foreign nationals, who aren't even in Belize. I understand it has been brought to the attention of the director and to your attention."

Channel 5

Minister of Immigration Clueless on Workers’ Status
The news that a Guatemalan company with Guatemalan employees was building a Coast Guard facility on Hunting Caye broke last week Thursday. One week later, the Government says it still [...]

Minister Saldivar Says He Knew About BINARQ…But Kept Mum
While the Minister of Labour, Hulse, is saying that he still does not know about permits, the Minister of National Security, John Saldivar, says all required permits were approved. Saldivar [...]

Another Immigration Investigation Underway
The Penner immigration corruption scandal which dominated the public landscape for a year has now fizzled. But with Immigration such a ripe tree full of fruit to plunder, there will [...]

US Embassy Responds
Since last Friday, News Five emailed the US Embassy with a series of questions in respect of the contract issued to BINARQ. Late this evening, we got a response. While [...]

UNIBAM’s Attorney Says It’s About Violence…Not Anti-Gay Lyrics
Three weeks ago an injunction against controversial artist Alkaline put him under manners, bound to keep his lyrical peace and tone down the sex. And now another artist is being [...]

Bobby Chin Says the Show Will Go On
Dancehall performing artist Beenie Man can be considered a mainstay in Belize, having been invited to perform in the country since the mid-nineties. So what is the contention all about? [...]

Beenie Man Says Love & Respect Only…No Hate
But according to UNIBAM’s Attorney, Lisa Shoman, there is precedent for the action being taken against Beenie Man, whose real name is Anthony Davis, and she’s right. Beenie Man and [...]

Belize People’s Front wants to boycott Guatemala
The murder of Danny Conorquie continues to raise the ire of the public. One group that is championing that Conorquie’s murder should not be in vain is the Belize People’s [...]

Minister Saldivar Still Quiet on Compensation Quantum
Earlier today when we caught up with the Minister of National Security, John Saldivar, he was drilled about compensation to the family of Danny Conorquie, who was killed two weeks [...]

Saldivar Says TPU Memo is being Investigated
At the beginning of the year, on January twenty-fourth, the Commander of the Tourism Police Unit, ASP Diana Hall, wrote to the ministry outlining the dangers and risks that tourism [...]

Another Accident on the George Price Highway
There have been extensive reconstruction works on the George Price highway, indisputably the most dangerous roadway which can claim the most fatalities from road traffic accidents. This morning at around seven-thirty [...]

Amendments to Firearms Act Passed…More on the Way
Today, the Senate met and with government’s majority, approved amendments to the Firearms Control Act, the Gun Control Act and the Legal Profession Act. Where the Firearms Act is concerned, [...]

Man Remanded for Carnal Knowledge
A teenager who is only thirteen years and nine months of age is claiming that a young man she is acquainted with had sexual intercourse with her against her will. [...]

Belize City Man Remanded for Burglarizing Home
A thirty-nine year old man is tonight on remand at the Belize Central Prison accused of burglarizing a house and stealing about two thousand dollars worth of household items.   Lance [...]

136 Police Recruits Pass Out
One hundred and thirty-six women and men joined the ranks of the Belize Police Department today. The ceremony was held at the police training academy in the capital where family [...]

B.N.T.U.’s call for action to “Unite to Stop the Attacks and tek wi country bak.”
One group that we had not heard from in respect of the execution of Danny Conorquie is the Belize National Teachers Union. Well this evening, we did. Following a meeting [...]

Bodybuilding Championships Set for Next Week
The Belize Body Building and Fitness Championships is set for next Friday, October seventeenth. For months, the federation and athletes, both male and female, have been putting the necessary preparations [...]

Belikin Calendar 2015 is about Fitness & Sports
If you have been following social media, you would know that the launch of the Belikin Calendar takes place on October twenty-fourth, at a reception to be held at the [...]

CTV3

The Symptoms Of Ebola And How To Prevent It
The second part of the Ministry of Health’s press briefing was to give the media a rundown on the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) which has been wreaking havoc in Western Africa. The current outbreak in West Africa, (first cases notified in March 2014), is the largest and most complex Ebola outbreak since the Ebola virus was first discovered in 1976. There have been more cases and deaths in this outbreak than all others combined. It has also spread between countries starting in Guinea then spreading across land borders to Sierra Leone and Liberia, by air (1 traveller only) to Nigeria, and by land (1 traveller) to Senegal. And while there is no known cases of the deadly Ebola virus in the Caribbean, officials say that the region including Belize should not rest on its laurels. Reporter Maria Novelo has this story in the following report.

Our Lady Of Guadalupe R.C. School Receives New Bathroom Facilities
For years students enrolled at Our Lady of Guadalupe Roman Catholic School in Altamira Corozal have been forced to use dilapidated bathrooms, thus putting their health at risk, but not anymore because the staff and faculty of the school can boast of new bathroom facilities. Daniel Moreno, a concerned citizen, saw the need of the school and that’s where the initiative was born. Daniel Moreno – Concern Parent “I was informed that the school needed better bathroom facilities and God put it on my heart actually to go ahead and do this and I consulted with my team at a Crossing the Gulf Ministries and we decided to go ahead and constructed the bathroom.”

Is Belize's Poultry Being Smuggled Into Chetumal, Quintana Roo?
A report aired yesterday on one of the media houses in Chetumal, Mexico has suggested that wholesalers who sell chicken may be smuggling chicken into the country from Belize. The suggestion goes further to state that this poultry from Belize can be contaminated and unsafe to eat. The report indicates that some wholesalers are selling chicken at a rather cheap price, somewhere in the vicinity of twenty-seven to twenty-eight pesos per pound which translates to somewhere over four dollars a pound. This is a concern as various wholesalers are competing for sales and the issue was raised because the actual marked price for chicken there is thirty-five pesos or more or almost six Belize dollars. The suggestion therefore was that some wholesalers were able to offer their poultry at a cheaper price because it was smuggled into the country from Belize. As we mentioned earlier too, the interviewee further suggested that this meat could very well be contaminated. Here is an excerpt of that story and the interview aired.

Organizations Meet To Discuss Security At Archaeological Reserves
The shooting death of a tourism police Danny Conorquie at the Caracol archaeological site has stirred a series of events that center on security and justice for the victim. The discussions as to how to deal with the aftermath of the situation continued this weekend with a stakeholder meeting. Discussions surrounded the archaeological reserve and the Chiquibul National Park among members of the Belize Toursim Board, the National Institute of Culture and History NICH, the Institute of Archeology, the Tourism Police Unit, San Ignacio Police Formation, Friends for Conservation and the Cayo Tour Guides Association. The Cayo Tour Guide Association made a number of recommendations including the need to increase military presence on the route to Caracol and the site itself starting from seven in the morning. This way there would be better access to the site for tourism activities that include botanical tours, ecology, hiking and camping to name a few. The association also suggested that they would like to have a better rapport with the TPU and Armed forces or every security option available for their safety. The second suggestion is that at least two hundred meters or more near the site is thinned, not cleared to allow for better visibility within the park and perimeter.

Belize Being Cleaned Of Debris
The Wavemakers 23rd annual national clean-up campaign which was held on Saturday proved successful once more. Hundreds of volunteers took to the beach, riverbanks, canals and lagoons to collect and remove garbage and other forms of debris from Belize’s waterways. Every article of trash was recorded and the information will be sent to the Ocean Conservancy to document the state of marine debris in Belizean waters. According to the 2013 data, approximately 9,300 pounds of trash was collected from twenty seven miles of coastline and waterways which comprises of fifty different locations. The trash collected this year included the usual non-biodegradable suspects: plastics, Styrofoam, aluminium wrappers and paper. But the debris also included things like car parts, tire rims and medical waste. Beyond compromising Belize’s aesthetic beauty, marine debris poses serious threat to fish, seabirds, marine reptiles such as turtles, marine mammals such as dolphins and manatees. The clean-up was one spearheaded by the folks at the Scout Association of Belize, Oceana Belize, Rotaract Clubs, environmental clubs and other organizations across the country.

Carmelita Resident Stabbed While She Sleeps
Tonight, Orange Walk police have arrested and charged one male teen in connection to an aggravated burglary in Carmelita Village that occurred last night. According to the situation report, around 12:13am, acting on information received, Orange Walk Police visited Carmelita Village in the District of Orange Walk where they met 43 year old one Ruth Flowers suffering from a cut wound to the right arm and palm of left hand. Information gathered revealed that Flowers was lying on her bed when she was awakened by a male person standing by her bed. This person stabbed her on her right arm and attempted to stab her again but Flowers grabbed the knife by the blade causing the cut to her palm. The person then ran away but not before Flowers recognized him as 18 year old Brandon Vasquez, Belizean labourer of Carmelita Village, who was arrested and charged yesterday for the crimes of Aggravated Burglary and Use of Deadly means of harm.

Robbery In San Pedro Nets Thieves More Than A Hundred Grand
A major heist on Ambergris Caye has netted thieves over $130,000 during a brazen daylight robbery at Milo’s Center in downtown San Pedro. The Sun reports that around 1:20 this afternoon, a security officer identified as Roberto Assi was wounded in the process when two men attacked him as he was heading out with a deposit bag to the bank. The two men stabbed and then robbed him of a deposit bag containing $130,891. One of the suspects was caught and the other with the money bag made good his escape. Police say the men are known to them and are actively seeking the other perpetrator.

SP Police Recovered Drugs And Cash, Two Men Charged
In other news coming out from San Pedro, island authorities arrested and charged a pair of men from the island for the offence of drug trafficking. This morning around 8:30am, a team of San Pedro Police, QRT, CIB and Special Branch personnel, conducted a search at an apartment room located at # 14 Sandpiper Street in the San Juan Area, San Pedro Town. Present at the time were 55 year old Rene Gabriel Perez, Belizean Fisherman and 18 year old Nairo Perez, Belizean fisherman, who both reside at the apartment. A search was conducted inside the room which led to the discovery of a pink plastic container containing green leafy vegetable substance wrapped in transparent plastic amounting to a total of 123.0 grams of suspected Cannabis. Also found inside the plastic container was ($656.00) in different denominations believed to be proceeds from drug sales. Both men were arrested and charged for “Drug Trafficking.”

PlusTV

US Embassy is Examining Contracting Procedures
The US Embassy issued a press release on the building of the Coast Guard facility on Harvest Caye, and the fact that Guatemalans have been contracted to do the work. The release says that- “The goal of the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) is to support the Belizean military and people so that the United States and Belize can continue to work closely together in strengthening maritime security interests that affect both countries. In consideration of our strong U.S.-Belize partnership, USSOUTHCOM and the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan are currently examining the contracting procedures and construction efforts underway to address Government of Belize concerns…..The bidding process for these infrastructure projects is transparent and open to a pool of international contractors under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Central America “Multiple Award Task Order Contracts” (MATOCS).

Heavy rains cause flooding in areas across Belize
Heavy showers fell over most parts of the nation on Wednesday, causing flooding in some areas. Many Belize City streets were completely under water as the rains fell heavily most of the day. In Belmopan, some streets were also flooded as well as yards. In the Salvapan extension area of Belmopan, a truck which had just delivered soil to a resident, was moving off when its fuel line burst and spilled onto the streets. That fuel was clearly seen on the flood waters in the area causing an ugly black film. Residents of the area are especially concerned about the oil sheen as some of them have water wells in their yards and fear of contamination has been expressed. The area is prone to flooding but this is a unique situation as the flooding, linked with a simple incident, can now create a potential hazard. We were unable to get a comment from the Department of Environment late Wednesday evening, when we were made aware of the situation. We will follow up on this story.

Teachers’ Union Issue Call To Action Following Killing Of Danny Conorquie
The Council of Management of the Belize National Teachers’ Union met on Saturday, and unanimously voted for an immediate “call to action”. BNTU is asking its teachers to stand in solidarity and support of tourism officer Danny Conorquie, who was gunned down in the Caracol Mayan Site by Guatemalans. This call to action is to bring into sharper focus all the risks Belize’s military and security have to “endure in the absence of solid security”. Via a prèss release, BNTU says, “…BNTU wishes to register our great concern and displeasure over the ongoing varying forms of invasions into Belize by neighbouring Guatemalans.” BNTU says they are embarking on this call to action under the theme “ Teechaz got yuh back…Unite to stop the attacks, ahn tek wih kuntri back”.

Ministry of Health discusses Dengue, Chinkungunya, and Ebola
On Tuesday the Ministry of Health hosted a press in Belize City to update on its efforts to fight three major diseases, one already making an impact and two others being monitored as a potential threat. We start with Dengue, the fever spread by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. It is endemic to Belize and the rainy season from June to November is at its height in terms of cases reported. But the 2014 season has raised some concerns, both in terms of the cluster location of the virus and its mutation to the deadly hemorrhagic fever. According to Director of Health Services, Dr. Michael Pitts, of the over 700 cases reported, the majority are concentrated in vulnerable areas of Belize City’s Southside. Doctor Michael Pitts – Director of Health Services “In terms of what is happening in Belize District, most of the cases that we are seeing are in Belize City. For all public health purposes, we have divided Belize City into nine zones. We are seeing most of those cases in three zones, which are primarily on the Southside of Belize.

Patrick Jones

Teenage boy reported missing in Benque Viejo del Carmen
A fifteen year old boy from Benque Viejo del Carmen has been reported missing by his father. Christian Reymundo who is a first form student of the Mopan Technical High School, left home on Tuesday evening around 6:30 pm, telling his dad that he was going to his aunt’s house to do homework. But the boy never made it to the aunt’s house, according to Omar Reymundo, 36, who lives on Riverside Street. According to the father, when the teenage boy left home on Tuesday evening, he was riding a beach cruiser bicycle.

Robbery in San Pedro; thousands of dollars stolen
There was a robbery in San Pedro town, on Ambergris Caye on Tuesday afternoon. 28 year old Cleofosio Assi, who works as a security guard, was enroute to the local branch of the Belize Bank when he was accosted on Barrier Reef Drive. According to police, Assi felt someone grab his backpack. A struggle ensued during which Assi was stabbed to the right shoulder. Still, he was able to identify his attacker, described as being of brown complexion, has dreadlocks and wore a beard on his chin.

Blogs

Untamed Belize – Spotlight on the Chiquibul, Belize’s Rainforest
Comprising 1,073 square kilometres, (414 sq mi) of rugged, pristine forest, the Chiquibul National Park contains The ancient Maya metropolis of Caracol, a Belizean wonder in its own right. And as the dense environment has daunted explorers for centuries, who knows what ancient Maya wonders are still waiting to be discovered? Originally part of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, which was marked out in 1956, the park was set aside after intense lobbying by conservationists in 1991, with the current borders drawn up in 1995 to protect the area and ensure that Caracol remained surrounded by a park. Thanks to such forward thinking action, the area has been saved from much of the ecological depredation seen in neighbouring countries. However – and there always seems to be a however when it comes to the environment – illegal incursions by foreign nationals seeking to harvest gold, game, lumber, xate palm leaves, and other valuable natural resources are increasingly becoming a problem. But more on that later.

BELTRAIDE’s Latest Investment Magazine Centers on Agribusiness
In 2013, the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service launched the magazine “Invest Belize” in an effort to promote its initiatives and highlight the investment opportunities available in Belize. On Tuesday, September 30, BELTRAIDE unveiled Invest Belize Volume 3 which is concentrating on opportunities available in the agribusiness sector. Invest Belize Volume 1 focused on offshore business outsourcing and Volume 2 was centered on tourism development. Mike Singh, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Trade, says this edition may be the best yet. BELTRAIDE selected McNab Publishing Limited for Invest Belize Volume 3. McNab has a track record of producing exceptional pieces such as the Flavours of Belize Cookbook, Belize Travel Guide and the Inspirational Calendar. Singh says he is extremely proud of the quality of articles in the magazine: “We are getting articles written by very senior people in government and very qualified people in the private sector.”

Trade Relations Between the Caribbean and China are Strengthened
The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) supported a contingent of representatives from four (4) of the Region’s Business Support Organisations (BSOs) to participate in the 8th China LAC Business Summit that was held in Changsha, China between September 12-13, 2014. The mission to China led by the Honourable Minister Donville Inniss, Minister of Industry, International Business, Commerce and Small Business Development for Barbados sought to build relations, discover new potential trading partners and promote the Caribbean for viable investment opportunities. Speaking at the China LAC Summit, Minister Inniss noted that the areas for future cooperation between China and the Caribbean included financial services, logistics, tourism and hotel development, agribusiness and infrastructure development. The participation of these BSOs that included JAMPRO, InvestSVG, The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Chamber of Commerce of Haiti, is an important step towards not only strengthening the capacity of the BSOs to understand the Chinese market but also to enable the BSOs to work with the regions private sector to strategically target and penetrate the Chinese for exports and investments.

International Sources

Decade of Destruction: The High Cost of Hurricanes [Infographic]
Katrina. Wilma. Sandy. During the past 10 years, these names have unfortunately become common parts of the American lexicon. They symbolize a decade that featured 15 of the costliest hurricanes on record that resulted in thousands of casualties, millions of destroyed homes, and more than $310 billion in total damage. This “Decade of Destruction” infographic from MPA@UNC, the online format of the Master of Public Administration program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, explores the devastating damage caused by hurricanes between 2004 and 2013, the relief and recovery efforts of government agencies and NGOs, and preventive measures taken to protect the nation’s most vulnerable communities from future natural disasters.

Jim Can, wanted in Belize tax scheme, linked to Calgary kidnapping
Jim Can, a Canadian businessman wanted as part of a major U.S. investigation involving stock fraud, tax evasion and money laundering in Belize, has a controversial past in Canada, including an admission he was present during a violent kidnapping of a Calgary businessman who says he was held at gunpoint by two associates of the Hells Angels. Can faces several charges in the U.S. following a two-year undercover investigation by the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. He is accused along with five others, including another Canadian, of taking part in what is described by U.S. authorities as a "fraudulent" and "intricate" scheme involving sham companies, anonymous debit cards and stock manipulations worth more than $500 million US. Can is a stock promoter who lived in Calgary for many years before moving to Belize.

International Tourism Conference Showcasing 280 Central American and European Vendors
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) announced that more than 100 European wholesalers and about 180 Central American vendors will participate in the Central America Travel Market Fair 2014 (CATM), which will be held in Costa Rica this October 9 and 10, in the Pedregal Events Center. Wilhelm von Breymann, Minister of Tourism in Costa Rica and member of the Central American Tourism Council (CCT), said that as hosts they expect attendees to enjoy the event and take advantage of the recent announcements made by the World Tourism Organization (WTO) which reported a 6% increase in international tourist arrivals for the first half of this year to do business. “CATM has become an exceptional showcase for promoting tourism in the Central American countries, and promoting the dissemination of multi-destination, tourism products and knowledge of the region,” he said.

Strengthening the Caribbean Internet
The promise of a better local Internet experience, data security and commercial opportunities has been one of the greatest incentives to establishing IXPs across the Caribbean. The TTNIX exchange now brings to eight the number of active IXPs in the Caribbean. T&T; joins British Virgin Islands (BVIX), Curacao (AMS-IX), Dominica (DANIX), Grenada (GREX), Haiti, St Maarten (OCIX) and St Lucia (SLIX) as Caribbean countries with exchange points. Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis and St Vincent and the Grenadines are also actively engaged in setting up local exchange points. “Tremendous progress has been made in sensitising the region to the importance of building out national Internet infrastructure. Now we are seeing the fruit,” said Bernadette Lewis, secretary general of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU).

Mayas, la plus grande expo "in the world"
Avec plus de 3000 ans de civilisation, le peuple Maya ne cesse de fasciner. L'exposition proposée actuellement par le Musée du Quai Branly à Paris permet de mieux comprendre la richesse de cette culture mexicaine. Une visite s'impose. Après la subite et disproportionnée rupture culturelle franco-mexicaine liée à l'affaire Florence Cassez initiée unilatéralement par Nicolas Sarkozy en février 2011, voici qu'à Paris, le Musée du Quai Branly opte en octobre 2014 pour une symbolique réconciliation en mettant en scène, (jusqu'au 8 février) dans son immense espace du rez de chaussée la plus grande exposition sur la civilisation Maya jamais réalisée, rassemblant - essentiellement dans des vitrines parfois trop sobrement éclairées - 385 pièces rares, dont une bonne cinquantaine exceptionnelles par leur rareté , leur signification et leur beauté. La civilisation Maya (de « maïs », la céréale sacrée) , originaire du Yucatan au Mexique vers 2600 avant JC, ayant également des bases au Belize et au Guatemala, est l'une des plus étudiées, mais nombre de ses activités et ses rites demeurent encore mystérieux. On distingue plusieurs périodes, différentes cultures se côtoyant, notamment les Olmèques.

Mangroves protecting corals from climate change
Certain types of corals, invertebrates of the sea that have been on Earth for millions of years, appear to have found a way to survive some of their most destructive threats by attaching to and growing under mangrove roots. Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey and Eckerd College recently published research on a newly discovered refuge for reef-building corals in mangrove habitats of the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than 30 species of reef corals were found growing in Hurricane Hole, a mangrove habitat within the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument in St. John. Corals are animals that grow in colonies, forming reefs over time as old corals die and young corals grow upon the calcium carbonate or limestone skeletons of the old corals. Coral reefs make up some of the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth, and face many threats such as coastal pollution, dredging and disease. However, some of their most widespread threats involve warming ocean temperatures, solar radiation and increased ocean acidification. It is from these threats that corals are finding refuge under the red mangroves of Hurricane Hole. Red mangroves, subtropical or tropical trees that colonize coastlines and brackish water habitats, have networks of prop roots that extend down toward the seafloor, and corals are growing on and under these roots.

Violent Incursions into Belize
On Thursday, September 25, 2014, Tourism Police Special Constable Danny Conorquie was shot at the archeological site of Caracol. His death was witnessed by fellow guards and tourists who took videos of his death. This week, On October 3, 2014, Guatemalans armed with shotguns and machetes, attacked Belizean carpenters who were building an observation post at Valentin Camp, inside the Caracol Archaeological Reserve Trans-national organized gangs of poachers, smugglers, and human traffickers continue incursions into the border area between Guatemala and Belize.

International Archaeology Day
The largest Maya site in Belize, Caracol was bigger than modern day Belize City—the largest city in the country—and supported over 144,000 people. An extensive agricultural system supported this spectacular kingdom. Caracol's monumental architecture includes Canaa—the largest building at Caracol and one of the largest man-made structures in Belize. Caracol was also a military power scoring major victories over Tikal and Naranjo. Will Caracol be able to overpower its competition in ArchaeoMadness?

Videos

Video: Belize My New Home on Caye Caulker.mp4, 2min.

Video: A Glimpse of Belize HD, 4min.
Belize, the only English-speaking country in Central America, offers a unique combination of richly, rewarding experiences that make it unlike any destination on the planet. Swim with the exotic sea life along the Western Hemisphere's largest barrier reef. Explore the fascinating mysteries of the largest concentration of Maya sites in the region.

Video: Tender docking with Carnival Glory off the coast of Belize, 2min.
Tender boat docking with Carnival Glory off the coast of Belize.

Video: Exploring Cahal Pech, San Ignacio, Belize, 2.5min.
This is a video I shot of me going through Cahal Pech in September of 2014.

Video: Snorkeling and Diving in Belize, 3min.
Snorkeling off Caye Caulker and Scuba at the Blue Hole.

Video: Conch Fishing San Pedro, Belize, 4min.
On the first day of the season, Sanpedranos in Belize are up at the crack of dawn and heading out to fish for conch in order for them to supply the restaurants, bars and homes on the island. Those who don’t fish eagerly await for the days batch to arrive and either purchase their fresh conch or head to their favorite locale to have some conch ceviche, or their conch soup or fritters.

Video: Whale Shark Aggregation in Belize – Cristiana & Alain Bontemps 2009 Natural History Nature Documentary, 10min.

October 8, 2014

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 and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Security guard stabbed and released of deposit bag containing over $130 Gs
A security officer was stabbed twice during a broad daylight robbery in downtown San Pedro. The security guard has been identified as Robert Assi, a resident of the DFC area of San Pedro Town. The victim was apparently attacked by two men as he was heading to make a deposit at the bank. The robbery occurred at the corner of Barrier Reef Drive and Caribeña Street sometime around 1:20PM on Tuesday October 7th.

Mexico and Belize announce bilateral actions
With the signing of three agreements and the announcement of a series of specific actions, this Friday took place the 8th Meeting of the Belize-Mexico Bi-National Commission. The Commission is the maximum forum of dialogue between both countries. Foreign Ministers Jose Antonio Meade and Wilfred Erlington led the meeting and announced the results after two days of work in Belize City.

Its A Jungle Out There!
I love nature, especially when it’s off the beaten path, so when an invite comes to go to Basil Jones, “Yes” is said without hesitation. Basil Jones is located in Northern Ambergris Caye, roughly about 12 miles from the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge, and is accessible either by land or sea. While traveling by boat seems more convenient and faster, you miss out on the unique ecosystems of Northern Ambergris Caye that you can only see through road. Basil Jones can be divided into three sections. To the east is a white sandy beach great for swimming and fishing. The center of Basil Jones is like a jungle with rich black soil and plenty of flora and fauna. According to persons that frequent the area, there are deer, wild boar, gibnut, chachalaca, foxes, raccoons and even jaguars. To the west is a complex and thriving mangrove swamp.

Santiago Tun honored as Officer of the Month for September
The Officer of the Month award for September was awarded to Police Constable (PC) 677 Santiago Tun. A small ceremony to commemorate the award was held for PC Tun on Thursday, October 2nd. As part of his recognition, he received several gifts, as well as a plaque displaying his photo placed at the San Pedro Police Station. PC Tun was honored due to his high level of professionalism, as well as his ability to attend to customers who can only speak in Spanish. “PC Tun is one of the few officers that is fluent in recording statements and tending to visitors that only speak/comprehend Spanish. This sometimes pose a challenge to the station as many residents of San Pedro are Spanish speaking. PC Tun is also very hard working, professional and dependable. He has never once complained about working overtime or being called off schedule,” said Deputy of the San Pedro Police Department, Inspector Henry Jemmott. For the month of September, it was noted that PC Tun was consistent and timely with his case files. He also ensured that all necessary investigations needed to complete his cases were carried out.

Ambergris Today

Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort Receives CTO Sustainable Accommodation Award
The Caribbean Tourism Organization in collaboration with TravelMole identifies Hamanasi as a dedicated leader in sustainable tourism - Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort was recently named winner of the Sustainable Accommodation Award during the 2014 CTO-TravelMole Caribbean Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Awards ceremony at the State of the Industry Conference in St. Thomas. The annual event recognizes individuals, groups, organizations and companies in CTO Member Countries that incorporate sustainable business practices during the previous year. This is the first time Hamanasi has received this honor.

Farewell Pete Graniel
We mourn the loss of a fabulous man of this community- a fisherman and also tourist guide. We celebrate the life of a fantastic husband and father- Pedro “Pete” Graniel Jr. Pete was born on the feast day of Saint Peter the apostle and fisherman and was aptly given the name of Pedro, which means The Rock. He indeed was the rock of his family and was a grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend whom everyone got to love. Blessed with a great sense of humor, Pete sought to make those around him laugh or at least smile as a means of making them and himself happy. Also blessed with tremendous charisma, Pete was able to embrace many tourists and enticed them to return time and time again. Indeed he was a man who loved the sea; no wonder he earned himself the title, “King of Wahoo”.

Education in Belize: Bullying in Schools, Need for Empathy

Rugby is Coming to Belize, San Pedro Club Gets Organized
Belize is the only country in the region not to have its own national Rugby Union, according to Tony Gillings, but he is the one person working diligently to change that and make rugby a reality in Belize. He arrived in Belize last week after having founded Rugby Belize to get clubs up and running across the country. Tony stopped by the office of Ambergris Today during his visit to Ambergris Caye to introduce Martin Dawson who is one of four organizers in Belize who will be in charge of organizing and administrating the San Pedro Rugby Club. Gillings is very excited for the San Pedro club as he knows that there is a large expat community on the island who will more than likely embrace the sport and assist in making it grow.

Ambassador of the Republic of China Hosted in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
On Sunday, September 28, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, His Excellency Mr. Benjamin Ho, and his wife, made an honorary visit to San Pedro along with representatives of the Central America Trade Office (CATO), SpeedTech Energy and Sunmed Medical Group. They were hosted by Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Councilors inside the San Pedro Town Council. As part of their visit, representatives of both SpeedTech Energy and Sunmed Medical Group made a presentation of their products and services and how it could be beneficial for San Pedro Town.

Misc Belizean Sources

Rehabilitation project at the Santa Elena border
The northern border rehabilitation project at the Santa Elena border in Corozal continues ahead in full steam with the upgrading of the road, drainage and traffic circulation infrastructure. The project includes the erection of an Entry Border crossing canopy, Exit Border crossing canopy, two traffic circles or roundabouts. One roundabout is proposed to bear the Gonzalo Guerrero monument and the second will bear our Belize Flag monument. The project is being carried out by the Ministry of Works and Transport through their Project Execution Unit. It is being built with funds from a Government loan through the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) and is contracted via a joint venture between RJB Co. Ltd. and Imer Hernandez Development Company Ltd. The supervision of the works is being carried out by Professional Engineering Services Ltd.

Mexico and Belize Bi-national Commission Meeting
With the signing of three agreements and the announcement of a series of specific actions, this Friday took place the 8th Meeting of the Belize-Mexico Bi-National Commission. The Commission is the maximum forum of dialogue between both countries. Foreign Ministers Jose Antonio Meade and Wilfred Erlington led the meeting and announced the results after two days of work in Belize City. Foreign Ministers from Mexico and Belize signed the following agreements: • Memorandum of understanding in tourism cooperation. • Letter of intent between Mexico and Belize to improve the security and cooperation programs at the maritime borders. • Memorandum of understanding to strengthen the Belize-Mexico High Level Border Security Group (GANSEF).

Channel 7

UNIBAM Says Back Down Beenie Man
If you watch the ads on the news, you probably know that Robert Lee, better known as Bobby Chin or "Black Chiney," is having his Birthday Bash Concert two Saturdays from now at the Cahal Pech Resort in San Ignacio. But, now an advocacy group is trying to block him out much like how the Roman Catholic Church tried to block the reggae artist Alkaline 3 weeks ago. But, this time it's not the church, it's their arch-nemesis, the gay rights group UNIBAM - which, in a clever twist, is claiming common cause with the Catholics. UNIBAM's attorney, Lisa Shoman today sent a letter to the principal promoter Jordan Zabaneh warning the promoters that they must commit to a clean show, or else UNIBAM will seek an injunction against them.

Ebola Not in Belize, But Are Authorities Ready?
Tonight, health authorities all over the world are grappling to come up with an answer for Ebola, how to contain it - and how to prevent it from becoming a global epidemic. The virus is on the move with confirmed cases in the United States and Spain. But can it reach Belize? This country does get regular visitors from West Africa - and the Ministry of Health also imports medical professionals from Nigeria. But how realistic is the risk, and what measures can be taken to ensure Ebola doesn't get into Belize? That was the subject of a press conference this morning at the Central Regional Health Headquarters in Belize City - where the first thing Health Authorities said is that there is no Ebola in Belize. Dr. Michael Pitts, Director of Health Services "Quickly, ahm, there are no known case of Chikungunya in Belize and certainly there are no known case of Ebola in Belize. It's, at this current time its low risk but we take it seriously because any one case could lead to fatality."

Chik-V Surrounding Belize, But No Positive Test Yet
A much more real and present danger is Chikungunya - known as Chik-V. The outbreak of this virus has gone right through the Caribbean, and is now in the America's. It is widespread in Central America - and is literally knocking on Belize's door. Pitts explained:.. Dr. Michael Pitts, Director of Health Services "While we don't know of any case of Chikungunya in Belize, I must tell you that since we spoke the last time, Chikungunya has move through the whole Caribbean chain. It certainly has entered into Miami Florida area. We have seen Chikungunya now in Salvador, Guatemala, in fact over this last week at least 5 provinces of Guatemala has reported Chikungunya. Salvador has also reported. We haven't seen any reports out of Honduras. For Belize, we have no known cases."

Budram to Jail
37 year old Shane Budram - he's well known on Wagner's Lane, or, as it is called, "Jump Street" - and tonight he's been remanded to jail along with a 17 year old minor. Police say they were part of a group of 7 men who pistol whipped and robbed 41-year-old Businessman, Ignacio Villanueva on Albert Street West on Saturday night. At 11:45 pm Villanueva was walking on Wagner's Lane when he was approached by Shane Budram and seven other men who surrounded him. He says that Budram hit him on the head with a firearm and when he fell to the ground, Budram took his 30.00 dollars in cash, and other possessions including his Nike tennis shoes right off his feet. Villanueva ran away bare-footed. Budram and the minor appeared before Magistrate Dale Cayetano where they were read charges of robbery and one count of wounding. They both pleaded not guilty.

Maim Victim Family Says Machete Man did It Over a Female
Last night, we told you about 24 year-old Teakettle Resident Aldo Moro, who had his left hand chopped off by another man on Saturday. Moro told police that he was attacked by a machete weilding Shaylon Santos. Santos chopped him in the head and on the hand. Investigators told us that they believe that Moro had an old beef, but his sister called us this morning to set the record straight. She said that her brother's attacker had an old dispute with his friend, not him. It was, she said, a quarrel over a female: Carol Budna, Sister of Chopping Victim "Saturday evening around 6:45 my brother was out in the road socializing with one of my other brother and some of his friends and for some reason he decided to go to a Chinese store. While there he was attack by this young man. I wasn't there and so what I understood is that the young man have him the first chop in the back of his head and then he put his hand up when he notice that this young man was going to chop him again and that was when his hand was chopped off completely.

Five Years For A Firearm
20 year-old Allan Moody is at prison tonight serving out a 5 year sentence after he was convicted of firearm offences before the Chief Magistrate today. Moody stood trial in which police officers testified on January 30, at around 5:30 p.m., they were on mobile patrol when they visited the Jane Usher Basketball court. There, they saw Moody, who was in the company of other persons. They searched him and found a black 9mm pistol with 8 live rounds. He was charged with keeping an unlicensed weapon, and keeping unlicensed ammunition. Moody offered his defense saying that he had no gun on him, and he also called a witness to the stand who said that the gun was under the bleachers.

"Ding" Disappeared on San Pedro
A 20 year old from Belize City is missing and his family fears the worst. Keron Swasey known as Ding left home for san Pedro in April - and his mother reported him missing 5 months later. 44-year-old Shelmadine Swasey visited the San Pedro Police Station and told police that she last saw her son on Thursday April 24th 2014, at 2:00p.m.. That's when he told her that he was going to travel along with some friends to work in San Pedro. After that he called her in May and told her he would be on the island for another three months. That's the last time she heard from him and anyone knowing his whereabouts is asked to call the police. We note that Swasey is among at least three other young men who have been reported missing on San Pedro - which others have turned up dead - after working as "Playadors" - beachcombers for drug drops on the north end of the island.

Massive Floating Island of Garbage Washes Up In PG
This weekend is the Annual Fishermen's Festival in Toledo. This event normally attracts visitors from all over the country and tourists but this year, they might have to deal with an ugly environmental eyesore: a floating island of garbage has washed up on PG's coastline. It began accumulating this morning and according to Will Mehia, it spans about 3 to 5 miles from Punta Gorda to the Port Honduras Marine Reserve. He also states that based on the content of the trash, it appears to have originated from Guatemala or Honduras. We've reported on these massive islands of garbage appearing on coasts in southern Belize for years now, but this one is the largest we've seen.

Another Allegation Against Police
Tonight a single mother is complaining about police brutality after her son 22 year old Michael McDougal was beaten by police officers over the weekend. She said it happened on Saturday morning in Newtown Barracks - after police found McDougal with a .38 handgun. And while she is not condoning her son's actions, she says the police can do their job more professionally. McDougal was taken to the hospital for treatment and then remanded to the Hattieville prison. Margaret McDougal, mother of Michael McDougal "Somebody called me from hospital and told me that I must come to the station to see my son because my son is in the hospital. When I went there and saw him, he said that they whop him in his head, he said that his stomach was bruised up and he said when they turned him over they stomp him in his chest and then he said that it was two police that beat him up. They hold him already and they didn't have any right to beat him again. He is bruised up and burst up and he is in pain." This morning police visited the home of Margaret McDougal - looking for her other son 23 year old Jeffery McDougal whom they believe is responsible for the murder of 40 year old Paul Rubio Morgan - who was gunned down on King Street last month. McDougal has been missing ever since that murder and since then his mother says police have raided her residence in search of him over 20 times.

President of Court of Appeals Sues Welder
Manuel Sosa is a judge and the President of the Court of Appeal, the highest court within Belize, but he's making news tonight because he is suing a welder, Ysusf Muhammad Bilal, for injures that he received when Bilal's dog escaped and bit him back in 2007. Lawsuits aren't cheap, often costing litigants thousands of dollars, but if he wins, Sosa wants Bilal to pay him for lawyer fees, plus $113 dollars and 67 cents, which he had to pay for the doctor visit, and for the cost of his trousers which were torn when the dog attacked him. Sosa says that on August 17, 2007, he went to Bilal's welding shop at mile 3 on the Northern Highway. He was there to inquire about Bilal's services, burglar bars for the windows of his house. He says that he got out of the vehicle, entered the yard, and was attacked by Bilal's dog. He claims that Bilal was negligent because he was a customer, and the dog should have been secured so that it doesn't endanger anyone wanting to do business with Bilal.

The Mystery of The White River
Yesterday we told you about the Sibun River's ghostly, sickly colour and the effect it is having on the Gracie Rock community - which depends on the river for its livelihood. Villagers believe that quarry work, or what is legally classified as mining has created the discoloration in the river. But, the Geology Department - which is in charge of all mining activities - says they don't think so. The Department's Michelle Alvarez told us that the white colour we first saw in May was caused by a mining operation - upriver in the Bonanza area. But, that operation, run by Larry Flowers, has since ceased operation - and did not cause this spell of whitening. And neither did the other mining operation that sits on the river - that's the one in Gracie Rock operated by National Aggregates. Alvarez says none of them are to blame in this case and her department doesn't know what is!

Man says GSU Commander Crashed Into His Truck
Recently, the GSU Commander, Inspector Mark Flowers, has been in the news where 2 complaints were lodged against him at internal affairs. Tamra McFoy and Allan McCoy both alleged that Inspector Flowers behaved inappropriately. Well, Joshua Wade, a resident of Ladyville who works in Belize City doesn't have that large a gripe - but says Flowers did do him wrong. He says that he had his pickup parked on Crown Cone Avenue on Thursday night at around 8 p.m. Mark Flowers, who lives right next to his workplace allegedly slammed into it, denting the back of the vehicle. Wade granted us an interview last week Friday in which he explained the entire situation, but at the end of the evening, he asked us to hold off because Flowers promised to pay him for the damages.

Weed Found In San Pedro
Two men were charged today in San Pedro after police found weed in their apartment. This morning around 8:30, San Pedro police, the quick response team, CIB and the special Branch intelligence searched a room on Sandpiper Street in the San Juan area. They found a small pink plastic container with suspected cannabis wrapped in transparent plastic amounting to a total of 123.0 grams which is about quarter pound. Also found inside the plastic container was $656 in different denominations believed to be proceeds from drug sales. 55 year old Rene Gabriel Perez and 18 year old Nairo Perez were arrested and charged for drug trafficking.

SICA Meeting On San Pedro
Today the council on Social Integration in Central America held its 62nd ordinary meeting in San Pedro. The focus of SICA's meeting is on the development and cooperation among the region's Human resource. Belize was represented by Area Representative for Lake Independence, Hon. Mark King. He explained the importance of focusing on the development of people. Hon. Mark King "The emphasis is usually on the movement and exchange of goods and services, the removal of tariff barriers and such considerations which are all very important but sometimes the human beings gets lost. The beauty of social integration is that it places emphasis directly on the human being, the citizens and his/her concerns and welfare comes into sharp focus. It has incredibly played an important role in ensuring the development in our sub-region is people centered." There were 7 member states represented at the meeting including Belize.

Into the Wilds of Chiquibul
And tonight, we go back into our archives for another look at the complex issued bedeviling the Chiquibul forest. In July of 2013, Daniel Ortiz and Codie Norales went into the Chiquibul to see a 100 plus acre Guatemalan milpa farm within Belize. It's only a microcosm of the larger problem which Daniel took the hard road to find out about:.. Posted (July 25, 2013) It’s not quite like climbing Victoria Peak, but when you go into the Chiquibul, all the way to the Western Border, half the story is just getting there! Tonight Daniel Ortiz dedicates a whole story to that. As we showed you last night, he and camera-man Codie Norales went there, and it’s important to note because it sort of explains why the place is so abstract, because it’s so darn far! Here’s his story- Daniel Ortiz reporting The environment inside the Chiquibul knows no sense of urgency, it is lost in time, immune to everyday exigencies; in fact, time is just a means of measurement which the guides use to estimate how far they’ve travelled, and how much further they have to go. For us in the media, time is always of the essence, and being sucked into the tangle of green on a deadline day, was, at first disorienting.

Brit Millionaire Threw Fundraiser For Special Envoy
The Prime Minister's wife, Kim Simplis is making international news again - this time thanks to a big fish in Britain who threw a fundraiser for her. Arron Banks recently donated a million pounds to the UK Independence Party also threw a fundraiser for The Special Envoy for women and children. IT was the second annual Fund raiser Gala Dinner on Wednesday in the UK. Through this initiative they were able to raise 300,000 US dollars for the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Mrs. Kim Simplis formed the trust in 2013.

Channel 5

G.O.B. Discuss Coast Guard Base with Americans
The Ministry of National Security has been forced into discussions with the US Embassy following revelations that a US-funded Coast Guard forward operating base on Hunting Caye is being built [...]

Did Guatemalans Build Joint Operations Centre on Price Barracks?
If it is not feasible to halt the construction of the forward operating base on Hunting Caye, the Ministry has committed to ensuring that it does not happen in the [...]

MoH Prepares for Ebola…Just in Case!
The deadly Ebola virus that has been traced all the way to Guinea in Africa, has made its way to as close as Dallas, Texas, where a man remains hospitalized [...]

ChikV Reported in Region, But Not in Belize
An outbreak of chikungunya fever across Latin America and the Caribbean was similarly reported in late-June.  While the spread of the vector-borne infection has been closely monitored in Belize, there [...]

Did Barrow know Guatemalan company was constructing BNCG base at Hunting Caye?
Do you believe the PM when he says he did not know that a Guatemalan company and nationals are constructing a base for the Belize Coast Guard at Hunting Caye? [...]

UNIBAM Wants Beenie Man Concert Banned
The concert by the controversial dancehall artist, Alkaline, was high in the September calendar of activities. But on the eve of the concert, the Roman Catholic Bishop went to court [...]

Muslim Woman Claims Religious Discrimination
There is a truly disturbing story to report tonight in which a Muslim woman claims she was denied access to court because of her religion. The woman, who asked to [...]

…And Seeks Legal Redress
As we said, the matter is disturbing, but the alleged victim of the discrimination has not chosen to stay silent. Supported by the Muslim community, she has sought legal recourse. [...]

Security Guard Stabbed…Robbers Get $130,000
A daring heist in San Pedro this afternoon has left a security officer hospitalized after he was stabbed twice while en route to make a bank deposit.  Shortly after one [...]

SP Police Bust Yields Drugs and Cash
Still in San Pedro, A search by a team of Police, QRT, CIB and Special Branch personnel at an apartment in the San Juan Area of San Pedro Town, yielded [...]

10 Years for Illegal Gun & Ammunition
Belize City resident, Allan Moody, is tonight serving his first night of a ten year jail term imposed upon him this morning in the courtroom of the Chief Magistrate, Anne [...]

2 Men Detained for Pistol-Whipping Businessman
We reported on Monday that a businessman is alleging he was pistol whipped then robbed by a group of men who surrounded him as he walked on Wagner’s Lane in [...]

Matura-Shepherd Calls Legal Act Amendments Misguided
On Wednesday the Senate will pass the bill for amendments to the Legal Profession Act, which means two things, really – one is that membership in the Bar Association will [...]

Belize City Man Jacked…Escaped Death
A Belize City man is lucky to be alive after he was accosted by two armed men. Sometime after ten on Monday night, thirty-six year old Jermaine Ottley arrived at [...]

Belize Audubon Society on Bird-watching
October is the start of the Belize Audubon Society’s Urban Bird Watch Program that connects Belizeans and visitors with nature through bird watching. The country currently boasts over five hundred [...]

Garbage Washes Up on PG Coast
And while bird watching is a positive event, down south, there is environmental degradation. Tons of debris are washing up along the coast in Punta Gorda. As these pictures will [...]

2014 Carnival Designers Recognized
The September carnival is now behind us, but there are side events that continue to take the spotlight. This Monday, the National Carnival Commission decided on who are the most [...]

Poaching & Illegal Logging in Belize
Tonight, we continue with the third in a series of environmental features on poaching and illegal logging in Belize by Guatemalan intruders.  In July 2012, former News Five reporter Andrea [...]

CTV3

Smuggled Chicken Into Chetumal, Quintana Roo
A report aired yesterday on one of the media houses in Chetumal, Mexico has suggested that wholesalers who sell chicken may be smuggling chicken into the country from Belize. The suggestion goes further to state that this poultry from Belize can be contaminated and unsafe to eat. The report indicates that some wholesalers are selling chicken at a rather cheap price, somewhere in the vicinity of twenty-seven to twenty-eight pesos per pound which translates to somewhere over four dollars a pound. This is a concern as various wholesalers are competing for sales and the issue was raised because the actual marked price for chicken there is thirty-five pesos or more or almost six Belize dollars. The suggestion therefore was that some wholesalers were able to offer their poultry at a cheaper price because it was smuggled into the country from Belize. As we mentioned earlier too, the interviewee further suggested that this meat could very well be contaminated. Here is an excerpt of that story and the interview aired.

COLCHA Keeps Culture Alive In Corozal Town
For the past two consecutive years the “Corozal Organization Leading Cultural Heritage and Art” COLCHA, has been hosting its annual Festival de la Hispanidad y Mestisaje and this year is no exception. This year the event will take place on the 10th, 11th and 12th of October at grounds of the House of Culture in Corozal. According to COLCHA’s president, David Ackierman, this weekend’s agenda is filled with activity starting off on Friday at 7:00pm with a Historical Lecture on Northern Belize. David Ackierman – COLCHA “This year we have change a little the dynamics of what we are doing this year and we are going to start at 7pm here at the House of Culture and we will be having a lecture done by Mr. Roy Rodriguez entitled the Evolution of the Sugar Cane Industry and its impact to the political structure here the northern Belize, then we continue with a concert on Saturday night, last year we started with the concert concept and this year we continue with the concerts concepts but this year we are having an international band by the group of Bernacolo, they are a group of seven and it is percussion and brass and they play music from the 80’s right up to modern times, and then on Sunday at 6pm we will have cultural presentations with a mixture of local artist and international artist.”

Our Lady Of Guadalupe R.C. School Received New Facilities
For years students enrolled at Our Lady of Guadalupe Roman Catholic School in Altamira Corozal have been forced to use dilapidated bathrooms, thus putting their health at risk, but not anymore because the staff and faculty of the school can boast of new bathroom facilities. Daniel Moreno, a concerned citizen, saw the need of the school and that’s where the initiative was born.Daniel Moreno – Concern Parent “I was informed that the school needed better bathroom facilities and God put it on my heart actually to go ahead and do this and I consulted with my team at a Crossing the Gulf Ministries and we decided to go ahead and constructed the bathroom.”Victor Castillo – Reporter“When you said this institute was in need of a well facility bathroom, how was the condition before you come in?”

What are The Symptoms Of Ebola And How To Prevent It
The second part of the Ministry of Health’s press briefing was to give the media a rundown on the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) which has been wreaking havoc in Western Africa. The current outbreak in West Africa, (first cases notified in March 2014), is the largest and most complex Ebola outbreak since the Ebola virus was first discovered in 1976. There have been more cases and deaths in this outbreak than all others combined. It has also spread between countries starting in Guinea then spreading across land borders to Sierra Leone and Liberia, by air (1 traveller only) to Nigeria, and by land (1 traveller) to Senegal. And while there is no known cases of the deadly Ebola virus in the Caribbean, officials say that the region including Belize should not rest on its laurels. Reporter Maria Novelo has this story in the following report.

Belize Is Free Of Chikungunya And Ebola But MOH Remains On High Alert
An excruciating mosquito-borne illness that arrived less than a year ago in the Americas is raging across the region, leaping from the Caribbean to the Central and South American mainland, and infecting more than 1 million people. Some cases already have emerged in the United States. While the disease called chikungunya or Chik-V usually is not fatal, the epidemic has overwhelmed hospitals in the Caribbean, cut economic productivity and caused its sufferers days of pain and misery. And the count of victims is soaring. The good news for Belize is that there is no known cases in-country, yet the officials at the Ministry of Health are taking no chances and remain on high alert. Reporter Maria Novelo has a related report of the Chik-V virus in the following report.Maria Novelo – ReportingThere are 3 diseases that were of public health importance to officials at the Ministry of Health’s press briefing this morning at the Central Health Region in Belize City. They are dengue, chikungunya and ebola diseases. And while dengue is an endemic in Belize, the Chikungunya virus has yet to be introduced in the country. Director of Health Services in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Michael Pitts, says they remain vigilant.

LOVE FM

Challenges in the Health Sector Make Us Unprepared for Ebola, etal
The fact that KHMH is the only ICU that is the fact that we have on the ground. To get a new ICU we have to look at what it costs so we have to consider alternatives. What we need in our resource capacity we have to assess and see what we can use to give the attention. So if we can’t build another ICU what is the next best thing that we could do and I am saying that it’s a dilemma for us with one ICU but I wouldn’t want to have that ICU be utilized solely for Ebola and on the same time I have the gunshot and everything else. So some of the consideration is to have the separate ward where you would have a group of people identify to give the intensive care and you would have to isolate all the equipment. The equipment you use for Ebola we can’t come back and use it in your general ICU so that is what they are trying to work out. In some of the countries in fact even in Liberia what you are seeing that they put in place is field hospitals to give that kind of attention and those are some of the things that we are considering. Another thing we are looking at is that the airport in the past we had a building on the airport, it was wooden, but that decayed so we are trying to replace that to say that at the airport we could isolate people without allowing them to come to Belize City but then that is PGIA.

If Ebola Comes….Is Belize Only Theoretically Prepared?
“Clearly we need to have the airport authority on board with us because we believe if Ebola is to come to us it’s more than likely to come through that route. We also have to pay attention to the border points because that is our frontier so we can see that we need to have airport authority, immigration on board with us and of course the tourist industry. There is an international health process that we do, so, for the country we have been going through steps for several years to implement certain things to help protect countries against these emerging diseases. It’s not specific for Ebola but I believe in 2005 we signed an agreement of what we should do for these diseases. Externally they set a certain standard maybe because of what our resources are because we can’t meet the standard but we could work on the guiding principles that we use and that is why it sounds a little theoretical because we have to adjust down sometimes. I don’t believe we can reach what the US is doing but we certainly can level and reach something like what Grenade is doing.”

Belize - EBOLA FREE
“Ebola is one of those diseases that have a high fatality. When you compare it to Chikungunya, Chikungunya has low fatality. So they are of importance because of two different reasons. Ebola is a disease that is transmitted by body fluids. It is not transmitted by casual contact but essentially body fluids that include blood, semen, saliva, urine and feces are the principle modes. The pattern that is emerging is that care givers and health care workers seem to be the people most at risk. How did Ebola get into the population? It got into the population through exposure to dead animals that were host for this virus or people eating uncooked game in those countries and the game includes; monkeys, shrews and other rodents.

Maheia Plans to Build on Borderline With Guatemala
Last week Friday, some forty Guatemalans crossed the Belize/Guatemala Border and threatened to burn down an outpost being built at Valentin Camp. Luckily the verbal exchange did not escalate to anything physical. Both the Prime Minister of Belize and Leader of the Opposition have addressed the issue. Today, Wil Maheai of the Belize Territorial Volunteers weighed in on the matter. Maheia criticized the current and past Governments in addressing any issue regarding Guatemala and Belize. Maheia also shared that the BTV is collecting funds to build their own station at the Belize Guatemala border down South. WIL MAHEIA “Once again we Belizeans continue to show weakness. There is no way in which we should have allowed that; in fact I am even more ashamed of being a Belizean. Those people came into our area, threatened our military personnel and left without anything happening to them. They should have all been herded together and arrested and charged. They can’t do that, this is our country. They should not have been allowed to go back to Guatemala freely.”

100K Goes Missing From Milo
One man is behind bars tonight and another is on the run with more than a hundred thousand dollars. Love News has confirmed that a brazen broad daylight robbery at San Pedro Town has left a security officer hospitalized. Information received is that security officer for Milo’s Center located downtown San Pedro Town, Roberto Assi, was stabbed multiple times by a pair of thieves. We understand that Assi was making his way on his bicycle to make a deposit when the robbers pounced on him on Caribena Street. The security deposit bag holding more than one hundred and thirty thousand dollars was stolen from Assi. One of the suspects was caught while the other man is being sought by police.

CITCO and Chamber Team Up For New Tax Regime
The Belize City Council has partnered with the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry to formalize a task force with the responsibility to restructure the trade license regime in the City. They have not been successful in doing this so Mayor Darrell Bradley, decided to extend a moratorium on increase of trade license for Belize City Business and property tax for Belize City residents. Here is how he explained it. MAYOR DARRELL BRADLEY “As a sign of good faith, we indicated to them, to promote this idea of certainty that we were going to issue a moratorium on any trade and property tax increases during this period when we are on the discussion with this new regime. So when that task force was put together and its made up of personnel from the City Council and personnel from the Chamber of Commerce, equal membership and senior people are on that task force, for example, our Director of Finance, Mrs. Ordonez who used to be the Head of the Income and Business Tax department; so she has very much knowledge on taxation and tax regime.

UNIBAM Wants Injunction On Upcoming Concert
The “Bobby Chin Birthday Bash” flyer has been all over Facebook. Robert Lee or “Bobby Chin” is promoting his birthday celebration that should take place on Saturday, October 18th, at the Cahal Pech Resort in San Ignacio. We say should because Bobby Chin’s Birthday Bash is receiving much opposition, specifically from the United Belize Advocacy Movement, UNIBAM. UNIBAM is taking offence and expressing concern over the songs that the guest performance, Beanie Man, will sing. UNIBAM’s Attorney, Senior Counsel, Lisa Shoman, told Love News that Beenie’s Man songs seeks to incite criminal activities against police officers and members of the LGBT community. Shoman sent a letter to Bobby Chin, requesting assurance that no such performance will take part that night. If that assurance is not forthcoming, Shoman, says that she has been instructed to seek an injunction to prevent the “birthday bash” from happening.

Dengue Cases Register at 705
In today’s press conference hosted by senior health officials, the matter of dengue was addressed. As it turns out, there are several cases reported in Belize particularly in the Cayo, Corozal and Belize District with south side Belize showing majority of cases. Dr. Michael Pitts spoke of the disease and reported cases. DR. MICHAEL PITTS “For this year as we monitor dengue, we have, up to the end of last week, reported 705 cases of dengue with about 187 cases of hemorrhagic dengue in the country. Most of the dengue cases we have seen are coming from the Belize District, Cayo District and Corozal District. In the case of Toledo there have only been 16 cases of dengue reported; Stann Creek District, 41 cases; Orange Walk District, 12 cases. Belize District has reported 365 cases, Corozal 170 cases and Cayo District 80 cases. In the past we saw most of the dengue occurring in the Belize District and Corozal and Cayo and at least for last year.

Potential of High Attack Rates for Chikungunya Exists for Belize
As with the news of the absence of Ebola in Belize, another sigh of relief can be had as the same news applies in the case of chikungunya. Health officials made the declaration this morning during a press conference held in Belize City. Director of the Health Services, Dr. Michael Pitts led this morning’s discussion. DR. MICHAEL PITTS “While we don’t know of any case of Chikungunya in Belize I must tell you that since we spoke the last time Chikungunya has moved through the whole Caribbean chain. It certainly has entered the Miami, Florida area. We have seen Chikungunya in El Salvador, in Guatemala; in fact over this last week at least five provinces of Guatemala have reported Chickungunya. El Salvador has also reported. I haven’t seen any reports out of Honduras. For Belize we have no known cases but we are actively looking for cases.” With no confirmed case of chikungunya in Belize despite its recent spread into the Caribbean, we can tell you that unlike with the Ebola disease, the Ministry of Health does seem to be on top of its game when it comes to the prevention of chikungunya. Dr. Pitts assured us that measures continue in an effort to lower the risk of contraction in Belize but that it is a community effort that will maximize their efforts.

Christmas in Roaring Creek Village
Christmas came early for a family in Roaring Creek Village. Correspondent Fem Cruz tells us why. ANGELICA CRUZ “Thanks to some kind hearted villagers of Roaring Creek who put one and one together, they made Derek McCoy’s dream come true.” DEREK McCOY “First of all I want to thank God for answering my prayers and thank God for these people; Mr. Fredrick Budna and his wife Ms.Budnah; Fredrick Budnah Jr.; Cory Williams and Luke Gentle; also Ryan Garbutt and brother Ian Mckoy and Paul Baizar. I was married for one year with a wife and a child and had nowhere to stay and God really answering my prayers I finally got my own house now and I need to thank God.”

PlusTV

Jermaine Ottley Shot and Robbed in Belize City
Police are investigating a shooting incident and robbery that occurred on Monday, October 6^th in front of a house at the corner of Allenby and Amara Streets, Belize City. According to reports, at around 10:00 pm, 36 year old Jermaine Ottley of Allenby Street was exiting his vehicle in front of his h...

Two Men Arrested in San Pedro for Drug Trafficking
Two San Pedro men were arrested and charged Tuesday morning for the offence of drug trafficking when authorities conducted a search at their residence.According to reports, at around 8:30 a.m...

San Pedro Police looking for missing person
San Pedro Police are investigating a case of a missing person. According to police, 44 year old Shelmadine Swasey of Belize City visited the San Pedro Police station where she reported that the last time she saw her son, 20 year old son Keron Kishane Swasey a.k.a...

Security Guard in San Pedro Robbed of Over $130,000
In San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, a security guard was attacked and robbed of over $130,000. According to reports, Security Guard Roberto Assi was at the corner of Barrier Reef Drive and Caribeña Street, sometime around 1:20p.m., on Tuesday October 7th. Mr Assi, who works for a collection agency, had i...

Improved Seating at School’s Football Field in Orange Walk Town
40 bleachers and 14 canopies newly built at the Louisiana Government School, in Orange Walk Town, are able to provide adequate and comfortable seating to spectators attending various sporting games often held at the school’s football field. The project was funded by the Belize Natural Energy Chari...

Garbage Washes Up On Beaches of Punta Gorda Town
There is a developing story coming in from the southern District of Toledo where a quite extraordinary amount of garbage has washed up on the beaches of Punta Gorda Town. PG correspondent Will Mehia reports that this is the worse it has ever been in all the years of living in Punta Gorda. According ...

Three Charged For Murder Of Harrison Smith
Police have charged three Belize City men with the murder of 32 year old Harrison Smith. On Friday night, October 3, around 8:00 p.m...

Lincoln Sabido Murdered In Belize City
30 year old Lincoln Sabido was a victim of gun violence in Belize City over the weekend. With more details here is Police Press Officer Raphael Martinez. “On Saturday night, at approximately 10:11 p.m...

Man stabs the mother of his children, then commits suicide
A domestic dispute in the Southern District of Stann Creek has left a mother in the hospital and a father dead. According to Reports, on Saturday October 4^th, sometime before noon, 34 year old Nicole Swazo of Dangriga Town went to Seine Bight village to visit her children, who were in the custody of...

Police Seek 30-years-old Man For Alleged Rape Of 16-years-old Female
A 16-years-old girl from Belize City reported to police that she was at home alone around ten o’clock in the morning on Friday October 3, when a man known to her entered the house and raped her. A medical examination confirmed that the child was indeed raped, classifying her injuries as grievous h...

Businessman Dies In Swimming Pool
On Sunday October 5,  a naturalized Belizean businessman 21-year-old Jitendra Lakhawani, died in a swimming pool. Police investigations revealed that at about 2:30 p.m. that day, Mr Lakwani went to the Pickwick Club in Belize City, along with a relative, to swim and socialize. At about 3:25 p.m...

Guatemalan and OAS officials dispatched to Guatemalan village to deescalate tensions
On the heels of the murder of special constable Danny Conorquie, a group of armed Guatemalan’s accosted a Belizean construction site near the border. Since the death of Mr Conorquie there has been a recent spike of activity at the border. As we’ve reported,  on Tuesday last week, two hundred Beliz...

PUP Leader Says GOP Must Be Tougher On Border Security
Leader of the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP), Francis Fonseca, and his colleagues had much to say in Thursday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, on the matter of border security in the wake of the killing of Special Constable Danny Conorquie. As with developments of armed incursion...

Charges Dropped Against BML Workers
On Monday morning more than 20 workers from Belize Maintenance Limited (BML) attended Magistrate’s Court for the expected dismissal of their cases. In August they had vehemently protested in front of City Hall on North Front Street after learning that at least 50 of them would be sent home because t...

Ground Broken For Belize City Drainage Improvements
On Monday, the Ministry of Works and Transport and the Belize City Council broke ground for a project designed to improve the City’s drainage in a key area. Under the eight-month project, a new canal will be constructed through Cinderella Plaza, from the corner of Douglas Jones Street and Freetown ...

Man Stabbed Following Argument In Belize City
There was a stabbing incident in Belize City on Friday night. The  incident happened on Green Street, Belama Phase Four, where 33-year-old Richard Smith was the victim. Police say Mr Smith was socializing with a man also lives on Green Street...

Man’s Hand Chopped Off In Teakettle Village
Belmopan police are investigating two reported chopping incidents; one resulting in the amputation of a man’s hand. Reports are that sometime around 6:00 pm on Saturday, 24 year old Aldo Moro of Teakettle Village, Cayo, went to buy at a store in Teakettle Village, Cayo, when he was assaulted by a ...

24 Years Old Man Charged After Chopping Incident In Salvapan
There was another report of a chopping incident which occurred in the Salvapan Area of Belmopan. According to reports, at about 10:45 pm on Saturday, 21 year old Edel Diaz, a Belizean Warehouse Assistant of Salvapan,  was reportedly socializing with some friends at a bar located on Cemetery Road, wh...

Shakeem Humes Charged With Aggravated Assault And Damage To Property
Shakeem Humes has been charged with aggravated assault and damage to property, for an incident occurring nearly three months ago. On July 17, Mr Humes is alleged to have pointed a firearm at Carlos McKenzie, who was in a vehicle belonging to the Government of Belize, and fired shots at him. Mr McKe...

Municipal Convention In Corozal Town Selects PUP Candidates For 2015
It was convention weekend in the Town of Corozal. On Sunday, October 5, 2014, the PUP Corozal Municipal Convention was conducted at the Civic Center. Two teams vied for the opportunity to represent the PUP in the upcoming Municipal elections in 2015...

Amandala

Moya Street resident gunned down
Lincoln Sabido, 30, of Moya Street in the Lake Independence area, was shot to death around 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 4, while sitting on the verandah of a house on Flamboyant Street, by unknown gunmen. Sabido, who is well-known to police, had been employed on the ongoing road construction in the city. Police found him lying on the ground, with gunshot wounds in the head and body. He was taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH), where he was pronounced dead at 10:30 that same Saturday night.

Johnnycake vendor gunned down during blackout
An opportunistic murderer took advantage of a countrywide blackout that occurred last night and during the power outage, put an end to the life of a johnnycake vendor who was riddled with at least five bullets under the cover of darkness. Police investigations suggest that at about 9:15 p.m., Gerald Palmer, 27, was walking through Grant’s Alley, which is located off Hyde’s Lane in north-side Belize City, when, upon reaching the corner of Grant’s Alley and Card’s Alley, he was accosted by a lone gunman, who first shot him in the leg and hand before blasting him with three more shots in the chest as Palmer made an attempt to flee for his life. According to Teral Palmer, who is the twin brother of the murder victim, Gerald had been asleep at their home at #20 Barrack Road, but got up during the blackout and had just left home when he was ambushed by the gunman.

Ex-lover stabs up woman, then hangs himself
A woman who had reportedly ended an abusive relationship was attacked and stabbed multiple times on Saturday morning in Seine Bight by her ex-lover, who then hanged himself. Police say that Byron Castillo, 33, a teacher, stabbed Nicole Swaso, 34, multiple times in the abdomen, chest and neck area at about 10:30 Saturday morning in front of a Chinese store in Seine Bight, and when she fell to the ground, Castillo ran to his house, and, believing that she was dead, put a rope around his neck, attached it to a beam in his house, and hanged himself. People in the area rushed Swaso to the Placencia Polyclinic. She was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit in a critical condition, and doctors there worked diligently to save her life.

BDF soldiers “face off” armed Guat mob in Caracol
Chiquibul–A week and a day after the brutal murder of Tourism Police special constable Danny Conorquie on Thursday, September 25, at the Caracol ruins inside the Caracol Archaeological Reserve, the protected area was the site of an armed attack against Belize Defence Force (BDF) soldiers and a team of carpenters by an armed mob of about 40 Guatemalans last Friday, October 3, who threatened to burn down the new conservation post the Belizeans are erecting to stem the unrelenting tide of illegal incursions and encroachments by Guatemalans. Ret’d Colonel George Lovell, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of National Security, told Amandala that military reinforcement was called in to support the four BDF soldiers who were onsite. Lovell said that the BDF never retreated, but held their ground in the face of threats from the Guatemalans – who carried rifles, machetes and shotguns – that they would burn the conservation post down.

2 shot; 1 dead
Two men who were making their way towards downtown Belize City shortly after 8:00 this past Friday night were met with a hail of bullets which cost one of them his life, while the other is listed in a stable condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH). Police reported that they visited the KHMH at about 8:15 p.m. on Friday, October 3, and saw Harrison Smith, 32, of a Police Street address in Belize City, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his body, and Eustace Lewis, 23, of a West Collet Canal address in Belize City, with an apparent gunshot wound to the buttocks. According to police, Smith and Lewis were riding on separate bicycles on North Front Street when they were cornered by a duo of gunmen, also on separate bicycles, one of whom opened fire in their direction.

Why Belize is losing the war for Chiquibul
The recent tragic death of police officer Danny Conorquie has cast a spotlight on an issue that has not received the necessary attention from either the Belizean public or the government. A silent war is being waged inside the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, one that has been raging for many years. The enemy moves freely within the Chiquibul, operates with impunity and greatly outnumbers the nation’s security forces. They are consistently encountered by the Belize Defence Force, Belize Police Department, Friends for Conservation and Development, and other Belizeans who visit the Reserve. Many media reports have been made on this enemy and images of the damage they continue to inflict on the Chiquibul are broadcast to the world. The enemy of the Chiquibul has seized control of the forest and there seems to be nothing the Belize government can do about it. Belize is losing the war for the Chiquibul, and it is apparent that we are now losing the struggle for sovereignty over that part of Belize.

Editorial: Belize’s survival option
This newspaper has described the murder of the Belize tourism police officer, Danny Conorquie, on September 25 at the Caracol Maya site by invading Guatemalan villagers/bandits, as a turning point in the historical development of the Belizean psyche. That murder was followed eight days later by another invasion of Guatemalan villagers/bandits, who threatened Belizean builders and a small Belize Defence Force (BDF) detachment who were about the construction of an observation outpost within Belizean territory near the western border with Guatemala. Scholars and historians may decide that Belizean reaction on the ground to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) option, an option which was first accepted and proposed by the Belize and Guatemalan governments in late 2009, was the real turning point. No professional poll of the Belizean people has been taken, as far as we are aware, but it appears that the gut feeling of the Belizean masses is opposed to the ICJ option. If this is so, then it means that the Belizean people have become militant in their perspective on the Guatemalan claim to Belize.

From the Publisher
The British, the Americans, and the oligarchy of British Honduras were not happy with the Hon. Philip Goldson when he revealed what he remembered of the Webster Proposals in 1966 in what we Belizeans knew then as the “Thirteen Proposals.” British Honduras had been granted internal self-government by the British at the beginning of 1964, and we were supposed to be moving right on to independence. The Guatemalan claim to Belize at the time was the “Anglo/Guatemalan Dispute,” and both the disputing parties, Britain and Guatemala, accepted the United States as the mediating party. Washington appointed a New York City lawyer, Bethuel Webster, to draft proposals to end the dispute so that British Honduras could move on to an “early and secure” independence. The Hon. Compton Fairweather has said that it was the great Samuel Haynes who formed the British Honduras Freedom Committee in New York City.

The other side of the saga within the sugar industry
In what has now become a disturbing period of uncertainty within one of the country’s most vital economic pillars, the besieged sugar industry, and just eight weeks away from the scheduled commencement of the 2014/2015 sugar crop season between late November and early December 2014, the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers’ Association (BSCFA) and factory owners Belize Sugar Industries (BSI)/American Sugar Refineries (ASR) remain at an impasse in their efforts to reach a definitive, refined commercial agreement due to major differences between them. Indications are that neither side is even close to reaching a fixed accord anytime soon, especially as it relates to the troublesome dispute over payment for bagasse, which has been a major roadblock in the negotiations among the industry’s stakeholders. The worrying situation, coupled with plummeting sugar prices in the international market, has prompted BSI’s multinational parent company, ASR, to dispatch a senior executive in the person of Mac McLachlan, ASR’s International Relations Advisor, in an effort to hopefully diffuse the volatile circumstances, but more importantly, to communicate ASR’s sense of urgency in its quest to reach a resolution and ensure the future of the sugar industry.

Belize City Primary Schools Volleyball Tournament results
The Belize City Primary Schools Volleyball Tournament 2014-2015 is in full swing, and we have received the results for games played at Bird’s Isle on Friday, October 3, and today, Monday, October 6. Only 1 game was played on Friday, and it was (M) St. John Vianney defeating St. Ignatius, 25-20, 25-17. Today, Monday, two games were played. (M) St. Martin De Porres def. Wesley Upper, 25-14, 25-15; and (M) Ephesus SDA def. Bethel Assembly, 25-18, 25-18.

Talking football – Part 2
The PLB Interim Committee is reportedly having a meeting on Wednesday of this week. While we wait for word on the new season, we continue with our football musing. BELIZEAN FOOTBALL COMPARISONS Thursday, March 8, 2007 (continued from Amandala of Sun. Oct. 4) Another question that needs to be asked is: why has professionalism in Belize not led to an increase in gate attendance, which would translate to better salaries for players, following the first few years of semi-pro? Instead, many clubs have folded due to financial difficulties, as fan turn-out during regular season games is abysmal. Teams that don’t make the playoffs have no hope of breaking even, and even champion teams have folded, or declined to return to defend their title, (New Site Erei, Sagitun?) due to financial problems. It is strongly suggested, from this scenario, that if the price is paid (in terms of gate receipts) to achieve excellence on clubs, they would be sustainable and continue to improve. But if top clubs collapse at their peak, due to financial constraints, only to then have to start all over again, this will naturally delay the rise of our football standard to match the higher ranked countries in the region.

Looking ahead to November 4
Belize’s National U-17 squad began training this past weekend, after postponement the previous weekend due to rains. We print the below reports to make our fans aware of the level of competition our boys can expect in next month’s Central American U-17 qualifiers in Honduras. Panama hosts U-17 tournament Concacaf.com PANAMA CITY, Panama, Wed. Oct 01, 2014 Nearly two months prior to its participation in a Central American qualifying competition for the 2015 CONCACAF Under-17 Championship, Panama will host a friendly tournament starting Wednesday and running through October 5. Panama, U.S. U17s win again Concacaf.com PANAMA CITY, Panama, Sat. Oct. 4, 2014 Host Panama and the United States each won for the second time in as many games in the Under-17 International Tournament, posting shutout victories on Friday at the Estadio Maracana. After a scoreless opening 70 minutes, the Panamanians netted four times in a 4-0 triumph over Costa Rica. Ronaldo Cordoba (70’, 90’) struck for two goals, while Leandro Avila (80’) and Adalberto Carrasquilla (85’) added one apiece.

Guatemalans attack at Valentin
On October 3, 2014, a mob of about 40 Guatemalans threatened to burn down a new conservation post which Belize is building at Valentin Camp, Cayo, inside the Caracol Archaeological Reserve, in response to incessant illegal incursions by Guatemalans who penetrate the area to carry out a range of illegal activities, including logging, hunting, looting of Mayan artefacts, and gold panning.

Patrick Jones

Maya leaders take part in cultural outreach
Maya Leaders from 38 Maya communities in southern Belize have taken part in a cultural outreach seeking that they call spiritual support from the ancestors. A three-day pilgrimage of the participating Maya leaders culminated with a sacred offering at the great temple of Tikal. On Monday morning, the bus […]

Ministry of Health updates on threats from viral diseases
The Ministry of Health today hosted the press in Belize City to update on its efforts to fight three major diseases, one already making an impact and two others being monitored as a potential threat. We start with dengue, the fever spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It […]

Study of violence prevention initiatives released
The Arias Foundation of Costa Rica is coordinating with Belizean social scientists to assess how Belize is addressing violence prevention. It has done similar work in other Central American countries and has engaged former education officer and consultant Nelma Mortis, a co-author of the Herbert Gayle Report on […]

Ministry of Health holds media briefing on Chik-V and Ebola
The Ministry of Health is at this hour hosting a media briefing in Belize City on Chikungunya, also known as Chik-V and Ebola. There are NO cases of either disease in Belize at this time; but with cases of Chik-V being reported in the Caribbean and Central America, Belize is on high alert, according to officials.

Blogs

2 Beach parties and North Ambergris Road
New North Ambergris road pictures are further below from when I drove up there last week and the following pics get straight to the tropical beach party part. At the rate of 600 feet a week, it is coming along nicely now and there are 2 nice long stretches of paved road to drive on. Many islanders head to the lagoon side at Grand Belizean estates for weekend parties – our version of a cottage country drive. We ran into Miss Shelly, Miss Joy and their friend enjoying a golf cart potluck party under the shady terracotta roof so we parked our cart as close as we could and joined them. Karen and I walked the beach a bit for some pictures and treasure hunting. Unfortunately I did not find any Maya Artifacts to turn over to Jan Brown for the Marco Gonzalez collection. Still hoping I hit the jackpot with another piece like the full axe head that I found while exploring the back side of the island one day. We spent a good amount of time people watching and chatting – perfect Sunday activities.

Pig Tail at El Fogon Restaurant in San Pedro, Belize
El Fogon is a favorite restaurant in San Pedro preparing classic CLASSIC Mestizo and Creole Belizean dishes in a very classic way. El Fogon has expanded quite a bit over the last year. And though it was empty when I first arrived at about 11.50am, the place was pretty packed up by 12.15. In Belize, lunch time is lunch time. Mid-day. Noon. It’s as if everyone is programmed with some sort of internal clock that rings at that time. And just delicious food. The coconut rice is worth the visit alone. Moist and tasty. I went for a favorite of mine. Pig tail. A “meat” that is very popular in Belize. It is sold from a bucket called a pigtail bucket and though I am hesitant to show you a photo…but…how bad can it be? Here it is.

United Nations map now includes the State of Palestine
he issue of “statehood” of Palestine was settled in September of 2012 when the United Nations General Assembly voted by an overwhelming 2/3rd majority and U.N. General Assembly Resolution 67/191was passed. If we refer to the issue of the State of Palestine being on the official map of the United Nations, you will see that the West Bank and Gaza are demarcated with broken lines without mention of the State of Palestine before the date mentioned.2 On, December 21st, 2012, the United Nations Office Of Legal Affairs (UNOLA) circulated an internal memo, not to member-States or media, but to the United Nations Secretariat. In the last line of Article 8 of this memo3stated: which is now public, states:

SALAD BAR – TOMATO CHICKEN SALAD
Easy side: Preheat grill to 400° to 450° (high) heat. Rub 6 (1-inch-thick) ciabatta or French bread baguette slices with a garlic clove; brush with extra virgin olive oil. Grill bread 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until toasted Grate zest from lemon to equal 2 tsp.; squeeze juice from lemon to equal 2 Tbsp. Combine lemon zest, juice, tomatoes, and next 8 ingredients in a large bowl. Let stand 10 minutes. Toss with crumbled feta just before serving.

International Sources

IMF says economic growth may never return to pre-crisis levels
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut its global growth forecasts for 2014 and 2015 and warned that the world economy may never return to the pace of expansion seen before the financial crisis. In its flagship half-yearly world economic outlook (WEO), the IMF said the failure of countries to recover strongly from the worst recession of the postwar era meant there was a risk of stagnation or persistently weak activity. The IMF said it expected global growth to be 3.3% in 2014, 0.4 points lower than it was predicting in the April WEO and 0.1 points down on interim forecasts made in July. A pick-up in the rate of expansion to 3.8% is forecast for 2015, down from 3.9% in the April WEO and 4% in July. But the IMF highlighted the risk that its predictions would once again be too optimistic. “The pace of global recovery has disappointed in recent years”, the IMF said, noting that since 2010 it had been consistently forced to revise down its forecasts. “With weaker-than-expected global growth for the first half of 2014 and increased downside risks, the projected pickup in growth may again fail to materialise or fall short of expectation.”

First lady of Belize visits children at Tockington Manor School
EXCITED children from Tockington Manor School were delighted to welcome some very special guests to their school. Mrs Kim Simplis-Barrow, the first lady of Belize was joined by Ms Perla Pedomo, the Belizean high commissioner at the school on Wednesday, October 1. They were in the country to promote Mrs Simplis-Barrow’s charity, the Belize children’s Trust which held its annual fundraising gala at Old Down Manor later in the day. The Trust is helping to fund the construction of a new ward at the country's main hospital which will provide additional care and services for children in the country. The children were very keen to learn about the charity but also about Belize itself and had prepared Belizean flags during lessons to welcome their special guests.

HMS Argyll moves on to Belize
As part of her flag flying tour, the Type 23 frigate, HMS Argyll has sailed on from Mexico to the Central American country of Belize. Members of her company went ashore there and not only helped at the orphanage but also assisted the Belizean military with survey and training flights in her embarked Lynx helicopter. The visit was also an opportunity to host a capability demonstration and a series of briefings with the Belize Defence Force and Coast Guard.

Where Is My Money? Shunned Investors Search for Relief – CollectiveFX Goes AWOL
A financial services firm that claimed to offer near-zero pricing before the mainstream has suffered a major hit taking it into the minuses. CollectiveFX, a Belize-based entity offering FX trading on the popular MT4 platform, has recently shut down its systems and is unreachable. The FX broker formerly held authorisation under the Belize financial watchdog, the International Financial Services Commission of Belize. The move signifies the vulnerability the FX industry faces under the current operating environment. The broker is believed to have started its crumble in May this year, details show that the broker informed clients that it was undergoing ‘changes’ and withdrawals would take up to ten to fifteen days to process. Although clients raised alarm bells, several were unaware of the prospective problems that were to occur.

New World: Niel Petroleum Fails To Secure Funds For Equity Investment
New World Oil and Gas PLC Wednesday said Niel Petroleum SA has not secured the required funding from Al Maram Trading & Contracting Ltd to progress its equity investment in New World. New World shares dropped 48% to 0.222 pence per share Wednesday morning on the news. In September 2013, Niel Petroleum agreed to invest USD25 million in New World in return for a 75% stake in the oil and gas explorer which operates in Belize and Denmark. Niel Petroleum planned to buy the 2.19 billion shares in New World for USD25 million, while also providing a USD25 million debt facility. Earlier this year, Niel Petroleum made an initial USD4.8 million payment to New World.

The 100 Most Beautiful and Breathtaking Places in the World in Pictures
The great blue hole of Belize continues to put Belize on the map. This time, the Belize Blue hole was listed as 1 of 100 most beautiful and breathtaking places in the world on youramazingplaces.com website. “The entrance to Xibalba. The Mysterious Belize Great Blue Hole is a large underwater hole off the coast of Belize. It lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef,” reads the description of the Belize Blue Hole.

Videos

Video: Chupacabra Killed in Belize, 5min.
Mysterious Chupacabra killed in San Lazaro, Orange Walk Dist., Belize. How this fierce animal reached Belizean Lands? Mystery still unknown.

Video: Snorkeling with stingrays and sharks at Shark Ray Alley in Belize, 2min.
This is a video I took with my iPhone 5S snorkeling in Belize off of Ambergris Caye. The area "Shark-Ray Alley" was filled with huge nurse sharks and Rays. SHOW MORE

Video: I'm on a boat - Belize 2011, 5min.
Angela, Kenny, Gerry, Melissa, Steve, Maggie, Branco, Carrie, Purvis, Brian, Terrie, and Henry.

Video: Belize Medical Mission Trip 2014, 3.5min.
Members of The Water's Edge methodist church in Omaha, Nebraska along with nursing and pharmacy students traveled to Belize for ten days to set up medical clinics in four different villages. The story of their trip lies here.

Video: Honeymoon Done Right - GoPro - Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, 4min.

Video: Beaulah Gillett: Belizean Softball Player!, 20min.
The ninth episode of a documentary series called Belizean Legends that will profile Belizean softball legend Beaulah Gillett as she discusses with Belizean Legends host Bilal Morris how Belize beat the 1970's's softball world champions national team the United States in the 1979 Pan-American Games. Gillett was one of the players on the Belize national team that played an incredible game against the U.S. world champions through team work and collaboration with their pitcher Margaret Usher to win 2-1 over the United States. In an exclusive interview from Chicago where she lives, Gillett chronicled the Belize softball era with an incredible collection of softball memorabilia and spoke about how playing softball in Belize molded her whole life as a person, and how a country and a people supported her and her colleagues to succeed in a sport that gave the country of Belize its first gold medal ever.

Video: Truly Belize, 2min.
Truly belize - schoolproject 2014 Tourism Management y2.

Video: WALADING AKA KING OF BELIZE - NUMBER ONE (STEVE AOKI FEAT IGGY AZALEA - BEAT DOWN MIX), 4min.

Video: Belize 2014, 4min.
Life changing trip to Belize. We stayed at the Sleeping Giant Lodge in Belmapan, Belize, Toured the Mayan ruins at Tikal Guatemala, Tubed the underground rivers in central Belize, and swam with the shark, rays, and sea turtles at the Hol Chan Marine reserve near San Pedro, Belize. I hope you enjoy it.

Video: Snorkeling Kanantik Belize, 3min.

Video: Poaching & Illegal Logging in Belize, 10min.

Video: Belize 2014,, 5min.
San Pedro, Belize 2014 Vacation

Video: Belize and Guatemala, 4min.
Recounting of the adventures in the summer of 2014 through Belize and Guatemala.

Video: Belize Urlaubs Erinnerungen, 35min.
Für Taucher, die ein gewisses Risiko nicht scheuen und gern etwas Abenteuerliches erleben möchten ist Belize ein absoluter Geheimtipp. Die Belize Cays sind das zweitgrößte Korallenriff der Welt und liegen vor der Küste dieses flächenmäßig kleinen Staates in Mittelamerika. Aber die Tauchgebiete vor der Halbinsel Yucatán bieten nicht nur eine ungeheure tropische Vielfalt und Farbenpracht, sie sind auch bevölkert von Haien und das macht das Tauchen hier zu einem nicht ganz ungefährlichen Hobby. Die Landesgrenzen werden im Norden von Mexico und im Westen von Guatemala bestimmt. Die teilweise wirklich wunderschönen Strände am Golf von Honduras sind aber für einen Badeurlaub eher ungeeignet, weil sie teilweise komplett zugewachsen sind. Eindrucksvoll erheben sich die Maya Mountains im Landesinneren auf 1.120 Meter. Belize ist eine Ferienregion für Individualisten, die vom Tourismus bisher weitgehend unberührt geblieben ist.

Video: Moray in Belize, 1min.
Green moray eel hanging out in the clear waters off Belize.

Video: BELIZE DA FU WE, 5min.
Not a piece of land to anyone, lets come as one, Hit song from the Super Fura Band.....all the wa from sugar City Orange Walk.

October 7, 2014

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 and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Enjoying the sunshine with a swim!
When the sun is out, it’s so much fun to play and swim in our very own island-sized playground! This lovely little girl was frolicking and having a grand time swimming in the shallow waters of downtown San Pedro’s beach. Her mother looked on from a little shade under a coconut tree.

La Gaviota – oh the sailing possibilities!
If you’re on the beach by the Central Park, chances are you’ll see her docked, her sails down as she bobs along the gentle waves. I bet a sailing adventure on this boat would be amazing! I managed to talk to captain Luis Nuñez, who teased me with the many fun escapades offered onboard La Gaviota (Spanish for seagull). He rhapsodized about this tour he is offering (for slow season). La Gaviota anchors and guests get to enjoy four snorkel stops. Coral Gardens first, then off the coast of Caye Caulker for a quick peek at the manatees that frequent the area. Of course, a tour of Hol Chan Channel and Shark Ray Alley cannot be missed. “I provide everything: food, drinks, snorkel gear, everything. We don’t even do a beach barbeque. It’s all on the water.” Well…umm…sign me up?! “Honestly, guests just need to show up in their bathing suits and bring sunscreen/suntan lotion.”

Valentin Camp Incident
Earlier on Friday, October 3rd a group of Guatemalan nationals, some armed with rifles, shotguns and machetes, entered into Belize in the area of Valentin Camp where the Government of Belize is constructing a conservation post. They communicated their intention to destroy the conservation post but retreated back across the border after various verbal exchanges with our military. The BDF has since quickly deployed re-enforcement and is firmly and completely in control of the area, and construction of the conservation post continues. Our Foreign Ministry has communicated to Guatemalan authorities our outrage at this blatant armed incursion by Guatemalan civilians. Both Guatemalan and OAS officials have been dispatched to the Guatemalan village to try to de-escalate tensions in an area well known for lawless behavior. Guatemalan authorities have been asked to do all in their power to dissuade civilians from any further such actions as the Belize military will carry out its mandate to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Belize.

Rugby Belize comes to San Pedro
Rugby Belize is expanding its reach across the country and now they have made it to San Pedro. As of Tuesday, September 30th, Martin Dawson is one of four organizers across the country for Rugby Belize. Founded by Tony Gillings, Rugby Belize is an organization aimed at promoting and officiating the sport in the country. It is introducing the sport of rugby sevens for youth to become engaged in a more healthy and beneficial lifestyle. Currently, rugby sevens is in the process of being recognized as an official sport by the Belize National Sports Council. Dawson will be in charge of the organization and administration of the San Pedro Rugby Club.

Ambergris Today

San Pedro Supports Poppy Appeal Fundraising Dinner
Everybody on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize knows that Jamila Janmohamed is at the heart of fundraising efforts for the Poppy Appeal. She has managed to significantly increase the amount of money donated towards the cause every year. Over the weekend Jamila once again hosted a fundraising dinner at El Fogon restaurant that included a four-course Indian dinner which its proceeds all went towards the Poppy Appeal. Her guests enjoyed a fantastic dinner that included a vegetable samosa, a spicy lentil soup (Daal), Beef Rogan Josh with Aloo Gabi and Pilau Rice and a Mango Kulfi. She is a master in the kitchen and her friends and supporters did not think twice to sign up for the dinner.

Letters: San Pedro Junior Collage Donates to Roman Catholic Church
Please allow us a space in your prestigious Newspaper for the following: On September 19, 2014, San Pedro Junior College joined the George Price Centre for Peace and Development in commemorating our National Day of Prayer and Service. We identified a non-profit organization, in this instance, the Roman Catholic Church, to donate our proceeds of the Bar-b-que Sale that we did for the purchase of a new keyboard. We need to mention that on this occasion, the Lion’s Club agreed to assist us in this endeavor as part of their community service. The following was the final breakdown of our fundraiser: Bar-b-que sale--$1040.00; Lion’s chicken ceviche sale--$87.00; Lion’s Bingo--$453.00. Our grand total of this first ever SPJC Community Service was $1,680.00.

Tourism Cooperation Agreed Between Mexico And Belize
Today, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation of Belize and the Secretariat of Tourism of the United Mexican States on “Cooperation in the Field of Tourism.” Honorable Manuel Heredia Jr, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation of Belize and Secretario Jose Antonio Meade Kuribrena, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Mexican States, signed the MOU during the closing session of the “VIII Meeting of the Belize-Mexico Binational Commission” held on October 2 and 3 at the Ramada Hotel in Belize City, Belize. The objective of the MOU is “to develop and strengthen the cooperation between the Parties (Belize and Mexico) in the field of tourism, based on equal rights and mutual benefit, in compliance with their respective national legislation and international commitments undertaken by the Parties.”

Armed Guatemalan Nationals Enter Belize with Intention to Destroy Conservation Post
On Friday, October 3, 2014, a group of Guatemalan nationals, some armed with rifles, shotguns and machetes, entered into Belize in the area of Valentin Camp where the Government of Belize is constructing a conservation post. They communicated their intention to destroy the conservation post but retreated back across the border after various verbal exchanges with our military. A press release from the Government of Belize stated that the Belize Defence Force (BDF) was quick to deployed re-enforcement and is firmly and completely in control of the area; construction of the conservation post continues.

Misc Belizean Sources

AMBASSADOR OF R.O.C. TAIWAN VISITS SAN PEDRO (21 photos)
On Sunday, September 28, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, His Excellency Mr. Benjamin Ho, and his wife, made an honorary visit to San Pedro along with representatives of the Central America Trade Office (CATO), SpeedTech Energy and Sunmed Medical Group where they met with Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Councilors inside the San Pedro Town Council. As part of their visit, representatives of both SpeedTech Energy and Sunmed Medical Group made a presentation of their products and services they offer and how it could be beneficial for San Pedro Town.

NATIONAL SERVICE DAY 2014 (57 photos)
On September 19, in honor of National Service Day, the San Pedro Town Council visited the schools in San Pedro and presented each student with an exercise book, pencil and sharpener as a token. The students were filled with joy as they received their gift.

Chikungunya and Ebola Briefing
The Ministry of Health is hosting a Press Briefing on Chikungunya and Ebola on Tuesday, October 7th, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. The update will take place at the Central Health Region in Belize City. The release does not say if Chikungunya or Ebola are present in Belize. Chikungunya has been detected in other Central American Countries.

CATM
The Belize Tourism Board along with other hoteliers will be attending CATM in Costa Rica this upcoming week. (4 photos)

Picture of the Week
with Hillyboo Lara, San Pedro Ambergris Caye. The "hoos" are here!

A Team that sticks Together, WINS Together
The Corozal's People United Party Convention held yesterday proved a milestone VICTORY for David "Dido" Vega and his Team of six Councillors. People from across Corozal's spectrum showed up in very large numbers to vote for David "Dido" Vega, Ruben Cruz and both their team of 12 councilors contesting for the Mayoral candidacy and councilors respectively. We extend our sincere congratulations to David "Dido Vega", Zeni Perdomo, Mia Dee Rancharan, Yvette Sanker-Riverol, Orlando Iglesisas, Esteban Pasos and Enrique Vargas. A special congratulations to Ruben Cruz and his team, Canaina Dominguez, Chaldy Vasquez, Eddie Palma, Shannon Duncan, Josue Aaron, Perez and Rigo Vellos who all now are expected to join their strategies to reinforce Team Dido to unseat long standing Mayor, Hilberto Campos in the upcoming March 2015 municipal elections.

Lands & Survey Department Officials Conduct Land Regularisation activities across Belize
The Ministry of Natural Resources & Agriculture informs the general public that Lands & Survey Department Officials will be conducting Field Inspection Sweeps and Consultations throughout the country during the week commencing Monday 6th October, 2014.

Field Inspection Sweep – Belize District
The Ministry of Natural Resources & Agriculture informs the general public that Lands & Survey Department Officials will be conducting Field Inspection Sweeps throughout the Belize District during the week commencing Monday 6th October, 2014.

Killing of Belize lawman by suspected Guatemalan poachers prompts public protest
The Belize Peoples Front on September 30, 2014, headed by its leader Nefretery Nancy Marin, the first woman to lead a political party in Belize, led a broad cross section of non government organizations in the biggest protest ever organized against Guatemalan encroachment onto Belizean territory, which culminated in the killing of a Belizean lawman by suspected Guatemalans who had illegally entered Belizean territory on September 24, 2014. Belizean lawman Daniel Conorquie was killed in the line of duty by suspected Guatemalan poachers who have had unfettered access to prized Belizean plants and timber through a very porous border complicated by an "adjacency zone" policy.

Suite Spot: El Secreto, Belize
From Miami, it will take you two-hours by jet; 20 minutes in a puddle-jumper; a five-minute golf cart ride; and 30 minutes on a water taxi to get here. But El Secreto, a rustic-luxe clutch of villas on the Belizean outpost of Ambergris Cay, is worth it. Blissfully isolated on a jungle-fringed beach, you’ll laze in a hammock on the porch of your villa, rising only to wander to the oceanfront restaurant for ceviche served in a conch shell, or to sip a frozen mojito on the sand as the afternoon sun turns the sea to molten silver. At which point you’ll understand why this Caribbean “secreto” is definitely one worth sharing.

Cayo Tour Guides Association recommendations for Caracol & Chiquibul
There was a stakeholder meeting over the weekend to discuss the future of the archeological reserve and the ‪#‎Chiquibul‬ national park. At the meeting was Belize Tourism Board, NICH, the Institute of Archeology, the Tourism Police Unit, the San Ignacio Police Department, the Friends for Conservation and a selected few of the Cayo Tour Guides Association (CTGA). A few of the suggestions are already taking place such as clearing the underbrush and building an outpost. The opening of the site will be determined sometime this week. However, the recommendations of the CTGA are listed below 1. There is a need to increase the military on the entire route toward Caracol and also at the site. They have to be on the route strategically from 7am. In this way we would be able to access the site for better tourism activities such as ornithology and botanical tours (This may mean that instead of 2 week shifts, one week shifts might be the best option for the defense personnel)

Channel 7

BDF Swarm Valentin Camp Area, Tour Guides Talk With NICH
When we left you on Friday night, things were very tense at the Belize/Guatemala border after some 40 armed Guatemalans from La Rejoya Village confronted the Belizean Military and threatened to burn down the Valentin Conservation Outpost, which was under construction. Well, at this time, the Belize Defence Force remain on high alert. 7News has confirmed that since the confrontation on Friday morning, the BDF has increased the number of soldiers at the Valentin Camp. Things have cooled down considerably, and according to our sources, there have been no further confrontation between the military and the Guatemalan civilians. The increased deployment will remains in place indefinitely.

Noted Teacher And Coach Stabs Wife, then Kills Himself in Seine Bight
The small southern village of Seine Bight is recovering from the shock of a public stabbing and suicide after a well-known resident allegedly killed himself after putting his common-law wife in the Hospital. 33 year-old Byron Castillo viciously attacked and stabbed the mother of his two children, 34 year-old Nichole Swazo on Saturday afternoon in broad daylight. A few minutes later, they founding him hanging from the ceiling of his house. He died shortly after he was discovered, either from the hanging attempt, or from allegedly drinking poison. The problem is that this entire incident caught Seine Bight residents off-guard because Castillo was a career educator at the St. Alphonsus Primary School, and so, that has led them to condemn his actions, but not his character.

City Man Killed By Two On Bike
And while there was deadly drama in Seine Bight - Belize City saw another weekend of gun violence. It started on Friday night when two men were shot at the corner of North Front and Pickstock Streets. It happened at around 8:00 when 32 year old Harrison Smith was shot as he rode his bicycle, while 23 year old Eustace Lewis was injured. The shooters were described as two men on bicycles - who, according to police, seemed to have a plan:.. Raphael Martinez, Police Press Officer "Harrison Smith was riding his bicycle along North Front Street when 2 gun men riding on separate bicycles; one coming from the direction of Pickstock, that would be up stop and the other from the direction of North Front Street who fired several shots at him causing his fatal injury. Harrison Smith received several apparent gunshot wounds to the body and again unfortunately just after about 9:45pm he succumb to his injuries.

Family, Friend of Accused Men Say They Have Airtight Alibis
But the families and friends of those three arrestees say they have an airtight alibi. Bart Lucas's older sister claims that he was at Chon Sing restaurant with friends when the shooting happened and that she has security footage to prove it. She and a friend who asked to appear off camera told us more:.. Voice of Friend "Another bogus charge once again from the police department. The reckless police department who not go out and do their proper investigation. Friday with some shooting with some guys Harris and another gentleman, we were in a restaurant underneath camera with a police officer." Reporter "Could you name the restaurant sir?"

Was Lincoln Sabido Lured To His Death?
The city's other murder happened on Saturday night. Lincoln Sabido was killed less than a block from his home on Moya Street in Belize City. It happened just after 10:00 when his family says the 30 year old got a text message from a female to come to the corner of Flamboyant Street. But when he went out there, he was shot multiple times. He was rushed to the KHMH but died on the way. His family didn't want to talk today - and police say they have no suspects. Sabido had been charged twice for two separate murders in 2007 and 2008 - but got off both times. In May of this year, he was back before the court - accused of robbing a Chinese grocer. Notably, the weekend's other murder victim, Harrison Smith was charged for murder in 2006.

Machete Men Maim Two In Cayo
There were two cases of maim over the weekend in the Cayo District. The first occurred on Saturday in Teakettle at around 6:30 where 24-year-old Aldo Moro was walking out of a store in the village and heading to his vehicle when Shaylon Santos walked up and viciously chopped him across the left hand and to the head in a single motion. The chop to his hand was so severe, that it severed the limb completely. Moro struggled to his car to get away - while police had to come back and get his hand, which had been left on the scene. Shaylon Santos is in custody and will be charged for attempted murder and maim. The two reportedly had an old beef.

Major Drainage Project For City
In all the major road works in the city - one major intersection has been left untouched. That's Cinderella Plaza which connects a cluster of heavily trafficked paved roads - but remains rough and unpaved. And that's because it has been designated as a site for a drainage canal. That's been holding up the paving - for too long it seems. But, finally today, a ceremony was held to signal the start of road and canal construction in the area. Mayor Darrell Bradley discussed the scope of the project and how it will enhance climate resilience in Belize City. Darrell Bradley, Mayor, Belize City "It will going to be very extensive. As I mentioned, it will involve primarily the construction and the clearing of the Douglas Jones Canal. That will not require the digging up of the street. They are going to connect that canal under Freetown Road, the area of Freetown Road that is at the intersection, and then it's going to go through Cinderella Plaza here, and then it's going to go on the section of Baymen Avenue that we haven't completed and then it's going to go out Calle Al Mar and out to the Caribbean Sea. And this is why we haven't finished these areas of infrastructure.

Mayor Says BML Matter Well In Hand
And while we had the mayor, we just had to quiz him on something else. Today it was the more than 40 BML workers who were charged for littering. Their case is scheduled to go back to court tomorrow - even though an undertaking was given to drop all charges. Today, the mayor said, "what charges?":.. Darrell Bradley, Mayor, Belize City "My understanding is all of that was already done. I gave instructions for that to be done a long time ago, but the procedural aspects of it have to be implemented by our people on the ground, our prosecutors and enforcement officers. So that's something that we had already resolved that we were going to do, and we're working with BML to coordinate the transition, and we're also working with them in relation to finishing up the scope of their contract before we move into a new system." "We paid them two hundred thousand dollars. That balloon payment was the last day of September, which I think was Thursday or Friday. And we paid them two hundred thousand out of three hundred and fifty thousand we were supposed to pay them and this week we're going to pay them the remaining one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. We're supposed to make a next payment the end of October."

Another Allegation Of Brutality
Last week was tough for the police department - 6 police officers were criminally charged - and two were charged disciplinary for various acts of abuse and dishonesty. But, tonight the complaints of police brutality continue. According to Michael Lorenzo Herrera, on Thursday night while walking to his neighborhood store, he was stopped by police officers who began to beat him on the street. He was then taken to the police station where he spent 48 hours under lock down. He says it is nothing new and he and his brothers are being targeted by one specific officer. Michael Lorenzo Herrera "While walking down the street, 2 men rush at me telling me to lay down. They didn't ID themselves, I didn't lay down because I couldn't see who it was. They flash their light at me when they got closer and I saw a police officer Castellanos and a soldier in his car. The man grab me on my shirt, burst off my rosary. The other one came behind my foot and got me on the ground to lay down. They start to kick me and handcuff me, out my hand in a position that the handcuff, any movement I do this handcuff gets tight on my hand and it grip into my bone. At the same time they pick up me my sister came and I told my sister to hurry call my mom because the men were beating me.

River Sickly White In Gracie Rock Again
In May of this year villagers of Gracie Rock complained about the Sibun River becoming milky white. Months later, it is still happening. In this riverside community where residents depend on river water for almost everything, it is now been taking a toll on their livelihood. They want answers; they want to know why the river which has always brought them life, now looks so sickly:.. Phillip Clarke - Chairman of Gracie Rock Village "What happen is that we have a situation in Gracie Rock, we have a construction company or a quarry company that's washing some stones up river in a place called Bonanza. What happen is that buy the stones and they take the stones and take the water from the river, wash the stones and the after that the water just return back in the river and it creates a white milky stuff that comes in the river and what it does after a while it settles down at the bottom of the river and all the fishes that were supposed to hatch in the dry season, now the eggs are all covered. So I don't know if we will have any fishes coming next dry season."

Credit Union Making Pitch To Youths
When you think about youths and money, saving doesn't readily fit into that equation. But through the Credit Union's efforts to cater to the financial needs and spending patterns of youths, saving can become an integral part of their lives. Credit Unions countrywide concluded a Strategic Marketing Workshop focusing on the theme of "re-positioning the local credit union movement to better serve youths today and for the future." One of facilitators of the workshop, Virgil Patrick discussed how they plan on attracting the younger crowds. Virgil Patrick, Facilitator "First thing has to be an ideological shift in the credit union's position. About 50 years ago it was really important for credit union to lend to marginalize people and therefore they provided savings on their and they really encourage thrift.

The Last Call For The Bar?
When the Senate meets on Wednesday, it is expected to pass the Legal Profession Amendment Act - signaling the end for the Bar Association as we know it. Once the bill is assented to by the Governor General - the Bar will no longer be able to collect compulsory fees from attorneys - and membership in the association will no longer be mandatory for those attorneys. Some view it is a day to be rude, while others say, who cares? Whichever way, the end of the Bar Association in its original incarnation it is at hand - and so Thursday's exchange in the House of Representatives could be seen as a kind of eulogy for the Bar Association as we once knew it. And, like a drunken thief who had done wrong by everyone including his own mother - even those who defended the bar couldn't find that much good to say about it:.. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "Nobody cares you know, nobody out there cares about what's going on with respect to lawyers and the Bar Association of Belize."

Still Celebrating Carnival
And while it seems no one's cheering for the bar, there's still praise coming in for carnival designers. The results for the Designer of the Year and Carnival Road March Song competition are in. For designer of the year Marina Welcome of Jump Street Posse took the designer of the year title for the junior band category while David Matus of Erotic Mas Band garnered designer of the year for the senior band category. And Ernestine's "Carnival Di Come" won the prize for most played, most requested and most popular song for Carnival 2014. All 3 winners received $1,000 each.

Chiquibul, Another Return
(Originally posted January 30, 2013) Tonight we go back into our archives for another look at the Chiquibul. The vast and rugged forest covers almost 8% of Belize's landmass - and is complex and intriguing in every imaginable way - from its ecosystem to its security risks. One year ago, Janelle Chanona and Codie Norales went deep into the wilds of Chiquibul, where no camera had been before. Here's the story:.. Posted (January 30, 2013) Over the years we've taken you into Chiquibul more than a few times. And that's because the vast forest - more than four times the size of Barbados - is the pristine protected area where Guatemalan poachers go to gather Xate, hunt wildlife, extract timber, and now, pan for gold. We've visited many parts of this rugged hinterland, but we've never gone to the extremely remote Ceibo Chico - which is the current flashpoint area for Guatemalan gold panners.

Channel 5

3 men arraigned for murder of Harrison Smith
Three murders in three days…on Thursday, twenty-seven year old food vendor Gerald Palmer was shot and killed on Grants Alley by a lone gunman who opened fire on him during [...]

Lincoln “Corn” Sabido is waylaid and killed on Flamboyant Street
The weekend’s second murder took place on Saturday night. Another man, well-known to the law, who also twice beat the murder rap lost his life in a hail of bullets. [...]

Still no arrests in murder of food vendor, Gerald Palmer
As we said earlier in the newscast, twenty-seven-year-old Gerald Palmer, a food vendor of Belize City, was shot and killed on Thursday night during a nationwide power outage.  He was [...]

Teakettle man loses his left hand in a chopping incident
There was more violence over the weekend. A vicious chopping incident in Teakettle Village on Saturday evening has left one man short of a left hand.  Twenty-four-year-old Aldo Moro was [...]

21 year old loses finger in machete assault
  Later that night, twenty-one-year-old Edel Diaz, a resident of Salvapan, lost his left index finger when he was also attacked by a machete-wielding assailant.  Diaz, who works as a [...]

Update on San Valentin where armed Guatemalans threatened B.D.F. soldiers
On Friday, the nation was shocked and outraged at the news that a gang of armed Guatemalan civilians came across the border and confronted BDF personnel. The incident happened at [...]

P.U.P. Leader speaks on Guatemalan-built military facility on Hunting Caye
The Coast Guard’s Forward Operating Base, located on Hunting Caye, remains a point of much contention. Last week, the news broke that the base, funded by the US, is being [...]

Charges dropped against more BML workers
A flood mitigation project is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank, which is a good thing because the City Council seems to be chronically cash-strapped. A significant portion of [...]

Teacher stabs ex-common-law wife multiple times before taking his life
A terrible domestic tragedy in the quiet village of Seine Bight has left a woman clinging to life, while the man who viciously stabbed her took his own life. At [...]

16 year old girl reportedly raped in the city
From the south to the city where a young girl is claiming she was raped. The sixteen year old minor of Belize City reported to police last Friday that while [...]

Businessman robbed by a gang of 8 men
Belizean businessman, Ignacio Villanueva, was attacked on Sunday by a gang of eight men. Villanueva was on Wagner’s Lane shortly before midnight, when he was targeted. The fifty-one year old [...]

$20 Million project launched to address flooding in the city
This morning, the Belize City Council broke ground on a twenty-million dollar project designed to relieve the perpetual problem of flooding in Belize City. It’s called the Flood Mitigation Infrastructure [...]

An art exhibition created by primary school students
Fifty-five primary school students took part this summer in an art program sponsored by the Taiwanese Embassy and the National Institute of Culture and History. The arts program is taught [...]

Jalacte: a look back at the incursions 10 years ago
Jalacte is a remote southern community in the Toledo District and, for many years, was off the beaten path for most Belizeans.  While its inaccessibility placed it out of reach [...]

Sports Monday with James Adderley
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   The 24th Women’s National Softball Championship reigned supreme insdie Roger’s Stadium yesterday. 7 teams had started the campaign but [...]

CTV3

Tortilleria Chico's Choco Cup Finals A Success
After 14 Sundays of intense football, only four teams made it to the finals of the Tortilleria Chico’s Choco Cup which took place yesterday in the Corozal District. The grand finale was witnessed by a crowd of spectators who cheered for their favorite team. Glenford Marvin – Chairman “Well it was a lot of fun yesterday, it was the grand final for Tortillery Chicos Cup six a side, it has taken three months and it was a success final with a lot of people out here in support to their kids yesterday.” At the end of the matches Mexico from San Andres took home fourth place while Holland from Santa Rita took third. And crowned as first place winners was Team Belize from San Pedro Village. Second place was taken by Brazil from San Antonio Village.

Conch Season Is Officially Opened
Conch lovers rejoice! The delectable mullosk is now ready to grace your tables once again since the Department of Fisheries signalled the official opening of the season as of October 1st. Conch harvesting yields an estimated $11 million annually into the country’s fisheries industry, a significant revenue earner for traditional fishermen. The season will run from October 1st until June 30th of 2015. It is estimated that a total of over 1 million pounds will be harvested this year. According to the Belize Fisheries Department, only persons with a commercial Fishermen’s License are allowed to catch conch for commercial purposes. To protect the industry, the Fisheries Department is encouraging establishments to purchase conch for consumption from the local market and to request a legal commercial Fishermen’s License from the supplier. In addition, they are also encouraging fishermen to abide by the law as it relates to legal size of conch to ensure the sustainability of the Strombus gigas species. The legal size of a conch allowed for harvesting is seven inches in length.

Rotaract Assisting In Education
Education is not getting cheaper in our beloved country and whatever assistance rendered to those with limited financial resources is more than welcomed. One such assistance was rendered over the weekend by the Orange Walk Rotaract Club. It has been several years since the club members have worked on this project and this year, Azalia Torres, Secretary of the club said they managed to aid more students. Over the weekend they handed them a small grant to help them pay for their education. Azalia Torres – Secretary, OW Rotaract Club “It’s been the biggest amount of grants that we have been giving so far since we started Rotaract in 2008 when we were re-chartered every year we’ve been giving four grants, two years ago we gave ten, last year we gave nine and this we will give thirteen, six of them was actually the Club of Rotaract Orange Walk from the funds of our kiki bar during Fiesta Rama and the other seven actually matched by the business community of Orange Walk, we choose these students from four categories; academics, leadership, technical, arts and sports and these are students from different highs schools here in Orange Walk.

Residence Of San Jose Nuevo Palmar Elects New Lands Committee
The conflict surrounding land in San Jose Nuevo Palmar has been resolved and villagers are content with the results of the process that began earlier this year. As we have been reporting, there were problems at the village with the Lands Committee there as they have been accused of mishandling money from sales of land in the village and not accounting for it. The issuance of land was also a problem as the rule in the village, since it was founded, was that descendants of the founders would be the first and only ones able to obtain land in the village. This was not happening and these issues gave rise to contention between the past lands committee and village elders and leaders. On Sunday however, after intervention from government, which is the lands trustee for the village, an election was held to elect three of seven members into a new committee. Chairman of San Jose Nuevo Palmar, Orlando Balam, says he and village descendants are content with the process and results despite the long drag.

Team Dido Wins Convention For PUP Mayoral Candidate
The People’s United Party held a massive convention in Corozal Town yesterday to elect their Mayoral Candidate and councilor candidates that will contest the upcoming Municipal Elections in March of 2015. Two teams met in the political ring, one led by Ruben Cruz and the second headed by David Dido Vega. While the both teams went head to head and foight a good fight at the end there could only be one mayoral candidate and six councilor candidates. Our news team was in Corozal yesterday and covered the convention from beginning to end. Here is that story. The peace and quiet that distinguishes Corozal Town on a Sunday morning was interrupted this weekend as it was convention day for the People’s United Party.

Police Discovered Marijuana Plantation In The Honey Camp Area
Orange Walk Police have arrested and charged one male person for the cultivation of Marijuana and Drug Trafficking over the weekend. According to authorities, an anti-drug operation was launched around midday on Friday some 10 miles south east of Orange Walk in the vicinity of the Honey Camp area. The operation yielded police 118 marijuana trees, standing about three feet in height. Further checks were made in the area where 226 grams of suspected cannabis was also found. At the time of the raid, one Belizean Laborer, 54 year old Jose Ack was in the area. Ack was arrested and charged for the cultivation of Marijuana and Drug Trafficking.

LOVE FM

Saturday Night Turns Deadly for Sabido
The gun violence continued on Saturday night as 30 year old Lincoln Sabido of a Moya Street Address in Belize City was gunned down. Police press officer Raphael Martinez told us what they know at this point. RAPHAEL MARTINEZ “The final shooting that we had of the weekend occurred on Saturday night at approximately 10:11 PM. Police visited the corner of Flamboyant and Moya Street where they saw 30 year old Lincoln Sabido of a Moya Street address with multiple gunshot wounds to the body. He was transferred to the KHMH where he later succumbed to his injuries at about 10:30 in the evening. Initial investigations revealed that several shots were heard on Flamboyant Street and later on at about 10:10 they saw the body of Sabido lying on the Street apparently dead. So far police have not detained anybody, we have no suspects in this case as the investigations continue.”

Belmopan Police Investigate Theft, Robbery and Maim
Police in Belmopan are busy as there have been incidents of theft, robbery and maim coming out of the capital city. In the case of theft, a Field Officer for the La Inmaculada Credit Union, Belmopan Branch, 31-year-old, Roel Moguel has told police that his motorbike was stolen from in front of his home. The blue Meilum cycle was parked on Kaimat Street in Belmopan at around six thirty and was discovered missing just before midnight. The cycle is the property of the credit union…….. Meanwhile, a student of Belmopan has told police that while he was walking on Garza Street last Thursday, he observed a man standing at the corner and as he walked passed him the man began following him.

A Crime Ridden Weekend: Rape, Robbery, Sudden Death, Suicide and Stabbing
A double tragedy struck in the southern district of Stann Creek this past Saturday. Just before midday on October 4, police were alerted of a stabbing incident in Seine Bight Village on the main street where 34-year-old, Nicole Swazo of a Dangriga Town address was rushed to the Placencia Polyclinic. Swazo was found with multiple stab wounds to the neck and upper body regions. Preliminary leads led the investigators to the residence of 33-year-old, Byron Castillo, who allegedly inflicted the wounds on Swazo….but when authorities got to Castillo’s home in Seine Bight Village, they found him hanging by the neck. He too was rushed to the Placencia Polyclinic but he was pronounced dead on arrival at nineteen minutes past midday. His body now awaits a post mortem examination at the Southern Regional Hospital morgue while Swazo has been listed as stable and is still undergoing treatment at the Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga Town. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Barrow Administration Says US Contract Was A Gift; Opposition Says that Is Unjustifiable
During the Sitting of the House of Representatives last week Thursday, Fonseca brought up the fact that one of Belize’s security bases at Hunting Caye, being funded by the United States of America, is being built by a Guatemalan Company. During this climate of tensions between both countries, Fonseca says that Governments decisions to allow it is of grave concern. Prime Minister, Dean Barrow, told the media on Thursday that he was not informed and Minister of National Security, John Saldivar, says that Government could not say no to a gift from the USA. Fonseca’s says that Barrow’s and Saldivar’s reasoning are unjustifiable. FRANCIS FONSECA “The Prime Minister’s expression of ignorance on this matter is alarming and we should all be concerned. He sits as the Chairman of the National Security Council and he is saying, as the chairman of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister of Belize he did not know who was building a military facility in his country; he did not know. That is alarming and disturbing, that is a degree of recklessness and incompetence; that really is troubling, deeply troubling.

Main Opposition Leader Criticizes The Barrow Administration on Border Issue
The rising tensions between Belize and Guatemala over the murder of Daniel “Danny” Conorquie, and the treats of arson made by some 40 Guatemalans on Friday has become a regular topic discussed among Belizeans. Prime Minister told the media on Friday that Guatemalans entered Belizeans territory and threatened to burn down the Outpost currently being built at Valentin Camp. Luckily no one was injured during the confrontation. Leader of the Opposition, Francis Fonseca, is criticizing how the Barrow Administration is handling the situation. FRANCIS FONSECA “These Guatemalan nationals coming into our territory in those numbers clearly wanted to make a statement just like these cowardly killers came to Caracol wanting to make a statement by executing one of our special constables; they wanted to make a statement at Caracol in front of tourists and in front of the world that they would not be intimidated by our special forces.

From Weed Possession to Aggravated Assault
Shakeem Humes who was charged last Friday with possession of 41 grams of cannabis, was back in court today, charged this time with aggravated assault with a firearm on Carlos Mckenzie and damage to Government property. Humes pled not guilty to the charges. He was remanded into custody until November 17. The incident occurred on July 20. According to the allegation, Humes fired shots at Mckenzie and in the process he damaged the front windshield and rear window of a Government vehicle. The damage is estimated at $2,325.

Majestic Alley Trio Arraigned For Weekend Murder
Three men, all of them residents of Pinks Alley, aka “Majestic Alley”, were charged with the murder of 32 year old Harrison Smith when they appeared today before the Chief Magistrate, Anne Marie Smith. They are Daniel Cain, Oscar Flores and Bart Lucas. They were also charged with use of deadly means of harm and wounding. Cain alone was charged with aggravated assault and profess to be the member of a gang. They were remanded into custody until November 6. The incident occurred on Friday, October 3. Smith and 23 year old Eustace Lewis were on North Front Street when a vehicle drove up and several shots were fired. Smith was fatally wounded while Lewis was shot in his derriere. Lewis is reported to be in stable condition.

Fonseca: PUP Had No Part in Protest at Guatemalan Embassy
In an interview with the Leader of the Opposition, Francis Fonseca, he clarified that the PUP’s Standard Bearer for Port Loyola, Gilroy Usher Senior, took part in a protest as a citizen and not on behalf of the People’s United Party. FRANCIS FONSECA “It was not PUP initiative; it was, as he said, a peoples demonstration that he led as a Belizean citizen. So, he wasn’t acting in his capacity as a PUP Standard Bearer but we certainly support his effort. I think he was trying to send a very strong and clear message of frustration about this very important issue and I think his actions and the actions of those who were along with him reflected the mood of the people at this time. People are very outraged at what has taken place and as I said we want good relations with Guatemala, we want to resolve the claim peacefully and we want to engage economically with Guatemala but at the same time we have to stand up for our country, our citizens and make sure that we are taking a very strong position in support of our territorial and national sovereignty.”

PlusTV

Three Charged For Murder Of Harrison Smith
Police have charged three Belize City men with the murder of 32 year old Harrison Smith. On Friday night, October 3, around 8:00 p.m. Harrison Smith, of Police Street, Belize City, and 23 year old Eustace Lewis of West Collet Canal were shot at by two men riding on separate bicycles, coming at them from both Pickstock Street against the flow of traffic and North Front Street. Harrison Smith died from his injuries, multiple gunshot wounds to the body, and Eustace Lewis is recovering from a shot to the buttock area. Seven 9mm expended shells were recovered. 26 year old Bart Lucas of Belize City; 26 year old Daniel Cain of Belize City, and 18 year old Oscar Flores also of Belize City were read murder charges before Chief Magistrate Ann-Marie Smith on Monday morning. They are also jointly charged with use of deadly means of harm and wounding, while Daniel Cain is separately charged with aggravated assault and professing to belong to a criminal gang.

Lincoln Sabido Murdered In Belize City
30 year old Lincoln Sabido was a victim of gun violence in Belize City over the weekend. With more details here is Police Press Officer Raphael Martinez. Raphael Martinez – Police Press Officer “On Saturday night, at approximately 10:11 p.m. police visited the corner of Flamboyant and Moya Streets, where they saw thirty-year-old Lincoln, of a Moya Street address, with multiple gunshot wounds to the body. He was transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries at about 10:30 in the evening. Initial investigations reveal that several shots were heard on Flamboyant Street, and later on about 10:10, they saw the body of Sabido lying on the street apparently dead.

Patrick Jones

Three men are charged for Belize City murder
Police have charged three Belize City men with the murder of 32 year old Harrison Smith on Friday night, October 3, around 8:00 p.m. Smith, of Police Street, and 23 year old Eustace Lewis of West Collet Canal were shot at by two men riding on separate bicycles […]

BML workers freed of charges as Mayor discusses integration plan
This morning more than 20 workers from Belize Maintenance Limited (BML) attended Magistrate’s Court for the expected dismissal of their cases. In August they had vehemently protested in front of City Hall on North Front Street after learning that at least 50 of them would be sent home […]

Opposition Leader calls for cooperation on border security issues
Leader of the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) Francis Fonseca and his colleagues had much to say in Thursday’s meeting of the House of Representatives on the matter of border security in the wake of the killing of Special Constable Danny Conorquie. And on Friday, there was a second, more […]

Flood mitigation project launched
The Ministry of Works and Transport and the Belize City Council today broke ground for a project designed to improve the City’s drainage in a key area. Under the eight-month project a new canal will be constructed through Cinderella Plaza from the corner of Douglas Jones Street and Freetown Road […]

Charges for attack on Government vehicle
Shaqeem Humes has been charged with aggravated assault and damage to property for an incident occurring nearly three months ago. On July 17 Humes is alleged to have pointed a firearm at Carlos McKenzie who was in a vehicle belonging to the Government of Belize and fired shots at […]

PUP chooses candidates for Municipal Election in Corozal
The People’s United Party (PUP) had a big convention in Corozal this past weekend to choose the candidates to contest the Municipal Elections in March, 2015. Two slates went head to head in the convention which was held at the Civic Centre in Corozal town. The full results have not yet been released by the PUP but preliminary indications are that 1,946 votes were cast in Sunday’s convention. In the end, the entire slate headed by David “Dido” Vega emerged victorious over the team headed by Ruben Cruz. Joining Mayoral candidate Vega on the winning slate are Yvette Riverol, Enrique Vargas, Mia Rancharan, Esteban Pasos, Zeni Perdomo and Orlando Iglesias.

Blogs

The Royal British Legion Belize
Since taking over the poppy appeal, Jamila Janmohamed has done a wonderful job of getting San Pedro to support both Belizean and Commonwealth veterans. Aside from the traditional fundraising through poppies, she cooks a fantastic Indian meal annually to raise funds. Jamilla has an impeccable reputation for her cooking and it is no surprise that the 2014 dinner was bigger and better than ever. This years event was spilling out onto the street and both the early and late seatings were full. You can read more about Jamilla’s outstanding fundraising efforts and her recent well deserved recognition – Jamila Janmohamed receives award by The Royal British Legion Belize Branch by the San Pedro Sun. The Poppy Appeal is a very worthy cause helping support the current and past British Armed Forces and their families. Please remember to pick one up around town over the next few weeks, Pedro’s and Caribbean Villas will soon have poppy donation containers available.

Stuffed Potato Balls
Another Puerto Rican meal from my friend Carmen. Stuffed Potato Balls incorporates potatoes and ground beef. This dish is spicy and very comforting. Because it's fried this should be a sometimes meal. You can always swap out the meat for cheese and spinach. SHOW MORE

Belize Gets Another Environmental Boost
An ambitious new project addresses the physical and human needs of environmental sustainability in Belize. In Brief: A new partnership between the World Bank and the Government of Belize shows great promise towards maintaining Belize as one of the world’s most pristine, sustainable natural environments. And Chaa Creek’s passionate environmentalists couldn’t be happier. The World Bank just announced the approval, on September 29, 2014, of a US$6 million grant to fund a five year project aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change in Belize. By addressing both the environmental and human aspects of long term sustainability, this internationally funded, locally implemented project may go a long way towards protecting some of those things that make Belize so extraordinary.

Quiet on the Set! Filming of “The Flavors of Belize” on Ambergris Caye With Chefs Jennie Staines & Sean Kuylen
Yesterday filming began on Ambergris Caye for the next episodes of the popular Belize cooking series “The Flavors of Belize” with Chef Sean Kuylen. Location? Gorgeous Belizean Cove Estates at Mile 3, Ambergris Caye. It was an absolutely perfect HOT day. I arrived up at Belizean Cove Estate at about 1pm and the spot is absolutely gorgeous. I took a photo of San Pedro’s lovely “Chefs for Hire” (and their signature lipstick) in front of it. These ladies are FUNNY and from what I hear? Very good cooks.

The October 5, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Three Burglaries - Three Arrested:
  As San Ignacio police continue the crackdown on increasing burglary reports, three men from Santa Elena Town were arrested and charged for burglary and handling stolen goods. Those arrested are Victor Hutchison, 43, Belizean driver residing on La Loma Luz Boulevard; Jerome Arnold, 45, Belizean laborer, of #69 Eve Street and Mike Middleton, 54, Belizean laborer who lives in an apartment on Maxi Street. In the first reported incident, Ronel Wagner, 37, Belizean businessman residing at Mile 69 on the George Price Highway between San Ignacio and Benque Viejo Town, visited the police station and reported that sometime between Tuesday night, September 9 and Wednesday morning, September 10, his business place, RW Electronics, located on Joseph Andrews Drive in San Ignacio, was burglarized.
• Heart Attack Claims Two More Lives:
  Heart attacks claims two more lives this week. The first incident occurred on Saturday, September 27, when police were called to the Bullet Tree Falls Village residence of Phillip Koeing, 44, Canadian, were they were directed to the lifeless body of a male person later identified as Michael Martin, 62, naturalized Belizean American from the same village. The investigation revealed that Mike was installing a Roto Plas water tank for Koeing when he collapsed in the yard. The body was transported to the Community Hospital in San Ignacio where it was officially pronounced dead. The legally required post mortem examination, conducted by Forensic Specialist Dr. Ken, certified that cause of death as Acute Pulmonary Edema, Acute Myocardial Infraction and severe Atheromatous of Coronary Arteries.
• Hundreds Of Agri-food Companies To Connect With International Clients At LACFlavors:
  Exporters from Latin America and the Caribbean will meet with buyers from around the world October 8-10 in Mérida, Mexico Follow us on Twitter at #LACFlavors / @BIDComercio @ConnectAmericas Hundreds of agri-food companies from Latin America and the Caribbean will meet with buyers from around the world at LACFlavors, which will be held October 8-10 in the Mexican city of Mérida. Organized by the Inter-American Development Bank through the platform ConnectAmericas.com – the first business-oriented social network in the Americas – the 6th edition of LAC Flavors is supported by ProMéxico, the Government of the State of Yucatán, Mexico’s Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA), through the Agency for Agri-food Marketing and Development (ASERCA) and Trust Funds for Rural Development (FIRA).
• Mineral Rights:
  The Ministry of Natural Resources and Agriculture reminds the general public that it is illegal to mine, prospect and/or remove minerals without a legitimate permit/license from the Mining Unit of the Ministry of Natural Resources and This is an offence prosecutable by law. Violators will be issued with a Stop Order to cease and desist such activities. Those that do not comply with the Stop Order will be fined and/ or imprisoned as per section 5 (a) (b) of Chapter 226 of the Laws of Belize Mines & Minerals Act.
• Traffic Fatality In Spanish Lookout:
  A road traffic accident in the Spanish Lookout community has claimed the life a helmetless young motorcyclist. Acting upon information received at around 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 30 a team of policemen headed to the scene of a road traffic accident in Spanish Lookout. Arriving on the scene near Western Dairies the police came upon a white Toyota pickup with Guatemalan license plates parked at the entrance to Western Diaries. The vehicle was seen with a large dent on the passenger side door. About 10 feet away was a blue Meilun scooter on the ground almost in the middle of the road.
• New Rotary Scholars:
  On Thursday 25th September, six new Rotary Scholars, each with an accompanied parent, were invited to attend the Rotary Club of San Ignacio’s weekly meeting to be introduced to the Rotarians who are partly responsible for making their continued education possible. Although many children from local primary schools applied, these 6 students were successful in their applications to receive a 4-year Rotary scholarship at one of the Twin-Town’s high schools. The students introduced themselves to the Rotarians present and, after taking part in the Rotary Club meeting and receiving refreshments, were each presented with a Rotary pen. The Rotary Club of San Ignacio annually selects 6 ambitious students to receive this scholarship and currently is supporting 23 local children through high school.
• 5-Classroom Building for Our Lady of Fatima R.C. School Inaugurated:
  The BELIZE Natural Energy Charitable Trust is pleased to have partnered with Perenco Belize Limited as well as with Our Lady of Fatima R. C. School and the community of Douglas Village to construct the second phase of a two-story five-classroom extension building. This new extension replaces a badly deteriorated building that the students currently occupy. In February 2014, the Trust provided a grant of $100,000 with Perenco Belize Limited contributing a matching $100,000. As well, the community of Douglas Village provided counterpart funding in the form of labour. A ground breaking ceremony was held on March 3rd, 2014 and construction started immediately thereafter. The 25’ x 80’, 4,000 sq. ft. two-story extension building was completed on September 27th, 2014.
• Magistrate Ruling Overturned:
  San Ignacio Magistrate Narda Morgan was in court on Monday, defending her conduct in a Family Court matter held in her courtroom earlier this year. It concerns a child custody case and so we cannot name the persons involved for legal reasons. But the Magistrate is accused of overstepping her boundaries with regard to her handling of this case, and Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin overturned her decision on Monday. As it was explained to us, the woman’s husband, represented by Rachel Montejo, appeared before Magistrate Morgan for an ex parte hearing resulting in her children being taken away from her without proper notice or representation. Rachel Montejo was also representing Magistrate Morgan for a different case but appearing in court before her was a conflict of interest.
• Inauguration Ceremony of the Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo:
  The Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo held its Inauguration Ceremony on Saturday 27, 2014. The Rotary Club of San Ignacio is the sponsor of the newest Rotaract Club in Belize, making it a total of 6 Rotaract Clubs in the country. The Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo was established on April 2, 2014, and chartered by Rotary International on July 31, 2014. The Rotary Club of San Ignacio presented the Charter Certificate to President Miss Astrid Salazar. A total of 15 young adults were inducted as Rotaractors, and welcomed into the Rotary family. Rotary’s Governor Elect for District 4250, Mr. Rene Villanueva Sr., was the Guest Speaker at the Ceremony. This is a historical moment as it is the first Rotaract Club to be founded in Benque Viejo del Carmen. The members are honored to be included in this great fellowship, and eager to continue its service to its local communities in the Cayo West Area.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease:
  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), also known as chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD), and chronic obstructive airway disease (COAD), among others, is a type of obstructive lung disease characterized by chronically poor airflow. It typically worsens over time. The main symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and sputum production. Most people with chronic bronchitis have COPD. Tobacco smoking is the most common cause of COPD, with a number of other factors such as air pollution and genetics playing a smaller role. In the developing world, one of the common sources of air pollution is from poorly vented cooking and heating fires.
• Mexico Charges Troops with Murder of "Gang Members":
  Mexican state police on 3 July 2014 inside a warehouse where a shootout between Mexican soldiers and alleged criminals on the outskirts of the village of San Pedro Limon, in Mexico state, Mexico. Mexico's attorney general has charged three soldiers with murder for their role in a shootout in late June in which 22 suspected gang members were killed. Jesus Murillo said the soldiers opened fire "without any justification whatsoever". The soldiers were among a group of eight held after the incident in Tlatlaya in the state of Mexico. At the time, the authorities said the victims were members of a drug cartel.
• Supporters of Danny Conorquie:
  A caravan of approximately four hundred demonstrators trekked out to the western border of Belize today in a show of support for the Belizean police force and murdered officer Danny Conorquie. Conorquie was killed last week at the Mayan site Caracol by a shooter believed to be a Guatemalan xatero. Tuesday morning the western highway leading to the border with Guatemala was under tight security, with no less than three police checkpoints between San Ignacio and the border zone. After the peaceable crowd was assembled, there was a stirring rendition of the Belizean National anthem followed by a prayer led by Pastor Lance Lewis. The prayer led by Lewis set the tone for the morning's speakers, with a strong endorsement for the Belizean police, a denouncement of Guatemalan policies towards Belize and demands for the GOB to get tougher with Guatemala. In closing Lewis said to the crowd's strong approval, "We are here for a purpose...this is our land and we will not back down...we have to draw a line in the sand."
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International Sources

Now is the time to buy Central America
The first time I wrote about Central America I got flak from readers for not mentioning Colombia. Let’s be clear, ever since US-supported Panamanian rebels broke away from Colombia in the Thousand Days War of 1899, Colombia hasn’t been part of Central America. It’s a common misconception, but I can understand why lots of British readers might not have an accurate mental map of Central America. After all, it’s hardly been a major player in world affairs, so here’s a quick recap. The region is made up of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama and home to around 41 million people.

Stealing agri produce costing Caribbean US$ millions; poses serious health risks
Stealing agricultural produce is costing the Caribbean millions of dollars annually and putting consumers at risk of being infected by diseases or poisoned by chemicals and drugs. Consultant, Reuben Robertson told the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) 2014 being held in Paramaribo, Suriname authorities have been told that their arsenal of weapons to fight back must include the enforcement of tougher laws and the use of modern technology. He added that thieves even go as far as carting off planting materials, fertilizers and farmers’ tools. “We consider praedial larceny to be hitting at the core of the survival of agriculture in the region,” he told the event being held under the theme “Transforming Caribbean Agriculture through Family Farming.” He lamented that such theft has resulted in foreclosure of homes that were used as collaterals, school drop-outs among poor families in the absence of fund. His presentation was made at the workshop on Policy and Strategy for Agricultural Revitalization and Food and Nutrition Security.

Les Mayas toujours vivants au musée du Quai Branly
Les Mayas sont toujours vivants: leurs langues existent encore au Mexique et leur civilisation, sans cesse mieux connue, révèle sa richesse et sa complexité dans une exposition au Musée du Quai Branly. Cosmogonie, pouvoir, religion: "Les Mayas, révélation d'un temps sans fin", qui se tiendra jusqu'au 8 février 2015, réunit près de 400 pièces, dont une cinquantaine de chefs d'oeuvre. Bas-reliefs, masques de jade, calendriers de pierre, sculptures témoignent des avancées de cette culture implantée sur un territoire correspondant à une partie du Mexique, au Belize, au Guatemala, au Honduras et au Salvador et qui connut son apogée entre 250 et 900 de notre ère.

6 Reasons to Take Your Kids to Belize
I haven’t been to Belize (yet), but it’s definitely on my list. There are so many ways to explore nature in Belize, whether snorkeling, hiking through the jungle, cave tubing or exploring Mayan ruins throughout the country, even just over the border in Guatemala. Even better, we’re coming up on the dry season, which begins in mid-November, making now a fantastic time to book a family vacation in Belize. Take a look at six reasons you and your kids will love Belize:

Videos

Video: Tropical Nature Sounds | Jaguar Creek Belize, 37min.
Tropical sounds from Jaguar Creek Belize. Relaxation sounds, Nature sounds for sleeping, meditation, reading, calm sounds for yoga, stress relief

Video: Belize Teaser, 3min.
Just got home from Belize! This is a teaser for an episode coming this winter!

Video: Belikin Beer It's Rich History, Numerous Variants, and US Retailers, 2min.
The top domestically produced beer in Belize, Belikin Beer is one of the things that defines Belize country. Learn about its history, beer variants, and the Belikin Beer distributors in the US. Belikin Beer is Belize’s top locally produced beer. It is brewed by the Belize Brewing Company, which is run by the Bowen family. The company was established back in 1969, and started brewing until 1971. The name Belikin is a Mayan term that means ‘Road to the East,’ although some claim that the name comes from the Belize River, which means ‘muddy.’ The label of Belikin Beer features a drawing of a Pre-Columbian Maya temple at Altun Ha.

Video: Best Ambergris Caye Bars and Restaurants for a Belikin Beer Glass, 2min.
A popular place for vacations, Belize is also known for the infamous Belikin Beer glass. Check out some of the best bars in restaurants in Ambergris Caye to enjoy this and more. Ambergris Caye in Belize has become a popular vacation destination. After all, Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, along with so many other exciting sights and activities. And after you are done with your diving and sightseeing for the day, there is no better way to end the day than to sit back and relax in a nice and cozy bar or restaurant while sipping on a Belikin Beer glass.

Video: Come Away to Belize With Me, 4min.
Jerry Jeff Walker.

October 6, 2014

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5 and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Wolfe’S Woofer: Medical School
“How are you John?” “I’m doing great. Life could not be better.” I was sitting on the deck at the Holiday Hotel drinking my coffee and reading my book when John walked in holding a cup of coffee in his hand. “Pull up a chair,” I said. “We’ll have a cup of coffee together and […]

Police Report
On Tuesday, September 23rd, an underage male visited the San Pedro Police Station at around 5:01PM to make a report against a police officer. According to the minor, on Monday, September 22nd between 2AM and 6AM his mother, Mirna Judith Berganza was detained for a traffic offense. As a result the minor and a family friend, Saul Chavez, went to the station to see what was happening. At the station Chavez spoke to Police Constable #1139 Oscar Ramirez who demanded $300BZ for the release Berganza. According to Chavez, PC Ramirez arranged that the money be given to him at the round-about on Pescador Drive. At about 5PM on the same date, PC Ramirez caught up with the minor and Chavez again while leaving the DFC Area. PC Ramirez proceeded to demand an additional $700BZ. They informed PC Ramirez that they did not have the money and only had $300BZ. PC Ramirez agreed to take the $300 which was given to him. A total of $600BZ was given to PC Ramirez for the release of Berganza. ON Tuesday, September 30th at about 5PM a group identification parade was conducted where 36-year-old PC Oscar Ramirez was identified. PC Ramirez was formally arrested and charged for the crime of “Extortion”.

Doctor Love
Dear Doctor Love, I have been in a relationship for over a year with a man. I love him and believe he loves me, however I think sometimes love is not enough. When we met and he asked me to be in a committed relationship with him, he let me know (most) of his skeletons […]

Misc Belizean Sources

Passing of Mr. Pedro "Pete" Graniel
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to extend its sincere condolences to the Graniel family on the passing of Mr. Pedro "Pete" Graniel. May his soul rest in peace and his family find the strength to overcome this great loss.

CTV3

BSCFA Receives Training In Child Labor
The Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association continues to take measure in ensuring the Fairtrade suspension is lifted. Today representatives of the BSCFA and other stakeholders in the industry took part in a training that focused on child labor, one of the most significant non-compliance found by FLOCERT in their audit conducted earlier this year. At that time the BSCFA was found with eight non-compliances and consequently was suspended. Today’s training centered on child labor as several children were found harvesting cane during the crop season and this was deemed hazardous work for them due to the tools used. CEO Oscar Alonzo explains. Oscar Alonzo – CEO, BSCFA “We had delivered some corrective measures to FLOCERT on how we are going to deal with this issue of child labor in the sugar industry and one of the major things is that all the requirements that Fair Trade has relating to child labor is based on the ILO conventions which has been ratified by the government of Belize, now these conventions is incorporated as part of the laws of Belize so a greater awareness for our farmers of what these requirements are will enable us to try to avoid or try to prohibit and or eliminate child labor.”

PM Says No Officer Is Above The Law
Yesterday after the House of Representative meeting was adjourned and as is customary, the media asked the Prime Minister a flurry of questions from national security issues, police brutality, to a domestic dispute allegation against his fellow Minister, Patrick Faber. One individual that stood out most is the contentious household name of Mark Flowers, who is the Commander of the much feared Gang Supression Unit who has been criticized by many Belize City residents for using excessive force and the complaints against him have been mounting. The PM assured the populace that if any wrong doing is validated, anyone found guilty will be dealt with. Honourable Dean Barrow – Prime Minister of Belize "But Mark Flowers isn't the GSU man and while I've said and will continue to say that I think him to be an outstanding police officer; outstanding people do wrong things and if, I don't care who it is, if it turns out that there is merit to the complaints, then the inevitable consequence will have to follow."

Team Cruz Speaks On Their Plans To Move Corozal Forward
The PUP will be holding a convention on Sunday October 5th to elect a team to contest the municipal elections next year. In our previous newscast we spoke with one of the teams and tonight we present the second team which is led by Ruben Cruz who is running for the Mayoral post. Cruz spoke on why his team is the best choice for Corozal. Ruben Cruz– Mayoral Candidate, PUP Convention “We are the team for the people, we are ready to work for Corozal and we have been campaigning that to the people and they believe on us and we will not let them down and we are going to work for Corozal.” Carmelita Perez– Reporter “What are some of the concerns that the people have express to you during the campaign trail?” Ruben Cruz – Mayoral Candidate, PUP Convention “The main one is the streets; everybody complains about the streets, the party in power has been trying to do something lately and it worst especially 7th Avenue, and so we need to come in March and put everything in order and one of our priorities would be that, the streets, all the area down town, all the streets outside the town, everything was a mess.”

Sharing Precious Moments With Our Golden Citizens
Today we continue with our new feature of Golden Moments with senior citizens where we bring you a glimpse into the lives of the elderly in our community. Today, we visited with Leonor Vega of Otro Benque, who shared a bit of her life story with us. Maria Novelo reports. Today we continue with our new feature of Golden Moments with senior citizens where we bring you a glimpse into the lives of the elderly in our community. Today, we visited with Leonor Vega of Otro Benque, she shared with us a bit of her life story. Maria Novelo reports. Maria Novelo – Reporting Born in Belize City, 93 year old Leoni Vega has spent most of her life living in Corozal and Orange Walk but considers shugga citi her home. Vega shared with us how it was like growing up. Leoni Vega – Elderly Citizen “As a kid I was in Corozal because my father died at the age of three years and my mother went to live in Corozal Town and I was there until I was nine years old then I went to Cayo and I went to school and at the age of nine years I come out from school and went back to Belize city and had to work at the age of nine years and just twenty five cents a week I was getting and at the age of fourteen when I started to get seventy five cents a week but in those days with seventy five cents you could have buy the cloth to get your dress sewed."

PUP Demands Investigation Into Danny Conorquie's Murder
There is no doubt that the murder of Special Constable Danny Conorquie is very much fresh in our minds and measures need to be taken to protect our security forces in the vulnerable areas encroached by Guatemalans. Yesterday in the House of Representatives the Government of Belize announced that some measures have been put in place to avoid history from repeating itself and to offer heighten security for our visitors to the site. Opposition Leader, Francis Fonseca, called for justice and demanded some answers in his presentation to the house where he stated that heads of Government need to devise a unified strategy to combat the territorial unrest with the Guatemalans. Whereas the Minister of National Security John Saldivar provided answers to measures taken after a review of the situation was investigated. Francis Fonseca– Leader of the Opposition "The attack on Danny Conorquie Mr. Speaker is not only an attack on him and his family and the police community, but it is an attack on all Belizeans.

Tensions Heighten In Caracol Reserve As Guatemalans Invade Belizean Territory
Tonight there are disturbing reports coming out of the west. Around ten this morning information surfaced that as many as three dozen Guatemalans from a small village along the Belize/Guatemala border came into Belizean territory armed with machetes and threatened workers and their escorts from the Belize Defense Force. The workers are building on an outpost at the Valentin Site near Caracol. It is further reported that the group threatened to burn the building which is for Friends of Conservation and Development. Our Colleagues at KREM News assisted us with interviews from the group’s Executive Director Rafael Manzanero and the Prime Minister. Here is what Manzanero had to say about the incident.

The Reporter

Man stabs ex then hangs self
A man reportedly stabbed his ex-common law wife then hanged himself. Details are sketchy but reports are that the incident happened in Seine Bight Village, Stann Creek on Saturday night. Police have not yet issued any information on this incident.

BEL identifies causes of Thursday night’s power outages
The Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) says that the fault of Thursday night’s two power outages that caused coutrywide blsckouts was damage to a major structure on the transmission system in a remote area near Buena Vista, Corozal District. BEL says that the damage on this major system, which links the country’s transmission to Comercial Federal Electricidad (CFE) caused a total system collapse and that local standby generating facilities were played a major role in restoring power supply to the country. BEL say that it relied on power supply the gas turbine at West Lake and Blair Athol Power Company Limited (BAPCOL).

Another unconfirmed fatal shooting reported
There are more reports of shootings in Belize City on Saturday night, one of which was fatal. The Weekend Reporter Online has also received a report of a drowning, and an incident i Teakettle Village in which a man losta hand. These incidents, however, are yet to br confirmed by police.

Credit Unions wrap up three-day workshop
Several credit unions completed a three-day strategic marketing workshop at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel on Sunday. The workshop, hosted by the Belize Rural/Finance Development Project and facilitated by the Trinidad and Tobago-based consultancy firm, Gbest Company Limited, was geared towards setting goals for the credit unions to achieve by 2030. Virgil Patrick, managing director of Gbest, explained that during the workshop the participating credit unions discussed concepts such as strategic marketing in the context of penetrating youth markets, as well setting performance targets and evaluation performance.

Mass grave discovered in Mexico
Mexican authorities have found a mass grave on the outskirts of the town of Iguala, where 43 students went missing on September 28. It is not clear whether the bodies found in a pit are those of the missing students, who were last seen being forced into police vans. The group had travelled to the area, in the state of Guerrero, to take part in a protest over teachers’ rights. Police opened fire on their buses, killing six people. Twenty-two police officers are being held in connection with the shooting. Witnesses said that most of the survivors – all trainee teachers – were bundled into police vans before disappearing.

The Belize Times

NATIONAL INSECURITY! – Internal memo warning of “high risk” for Tourism Police was ignored
Belize’s national security has been seriously compromised by a Government that has no ability to protect its people from domestic crime and violence or defend our borders from illegal invaders and encroachers. The cold-blooded murder of Special Constable 20 year old Danny Conorquie at the Caracol Archaeological site on Thursday, September 25th, at the hands of armed bandits believed to be Guatemalans was a tragedy that should have been prevented. An internal memo dated January 24th 2014, leaked to the media, Assistant Superintendent of Police Diana Hall warned the Commissioner of Police and officials of the Belize Tourist Board that her tourism officers were in a “high risk position” and “are not the ones who should be manning” the Caracol Mayan site security detail. According to ASP Hall her officers, equipped only with two shotguns, “are no match for our Guatemalan counterparts”.

Men or Mice
The recent callous and as far as we know, unprovoked execution of a member of Belize’s security forces has rekindled some deep and of late, almost dormant feelings of apprehension in the citizens of Belize. In some, it has evoked fear but in some, anger and in many, a feeling of patriotism and determination. Our issues with Guatemala go way back before any of us were born and for many years, presented a roadblock to our Independence. Guatemala has long claimed that Belize belongs to them as a consequence of some unfounded and inherited claim from Spain. The Father of our Nation was resolute in his quest and felt that we should not let the fear of any bully deter us from self determination. In 1981, we finally were given and accepted our Independence, albeit in the face of objections from many even within our fold. Many were afraid and those from among that number that could leave, left! Those who remained dug in and in spite of deep political tribalism and severe economic hardships have forged a nation from the vestiges of colonialism.

Editorial: Barrow Di Bruk Up Belize
He was only 20 years of age. Everyone spoke highly of him. He was an upright and good person. He came from a good family and during his short time on earth he made them proud of him. His goal was to become a member of the Police Department. He was already half way there as he was a Special Constable. What a handsome young man and dashing he was in his uniform. He is a reminder of the many good and wonderful Belizeans who populate the villages of our country. Then tragedy struck. A cold bloodied killer crept up from behind and shot him while he was on duty with tourist at the Caracol Maya site last week Thursday. “Oh Danny boy, Danny boy, the pipes the pipes are calling. From glen to glen and down the mountain side, The summer’s gone and all the flowers are dying” Our hearts are broken, our nation is in grief and on behalf of our Party Leader and from all of us we offer sincere condolences to the family of Daniel “Danny” Conorque.

Cayo Shotokan Karate club hosts international youth karate championships
The Cayo Shotokan Karate Club celebrated its 24th anniversary by hosting an international, invitational youth karate championship at the Sacred Heart College auditorium in San Ignacio on Saturday, where the Belmopan branch of the club won the most medals: 11 golds, 12 silver and 16 bronze. Cayo’s Caesar Dyck, bronze medalist at last month’s CODICADER Games in Guatemala, won the 16-17 years age category kumite championship against Basil Brown of the Belmopan club in the final. Kevin Heredia of the Kazoku Club won the consolation match for the bronze against Kevin Godoy, also of the kazoku club.

Westrac FC drills Succotz IRKA 3-2
The Westrac FC of Spanish Lookout drilled Succotz IRKA 3-2 in the Cayo 1st Division football competition at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio on Saturday night. Brothers, Fredy and Elmer Herrera, led Westrac’s attacks supported by midfielders Elvin Larios, Carlos Rosales, David Rodriguez and Brian Barrera, but Succotz IRKA got on the scoreboard first when the Westrac goalie Axel de la Rosa deflected a free kick to Salim “Piojo” Alfaro, who drove it into the net: 1-0.

Team BCB/FT Williams dominates Weekend Warriors’ Boom circuit race
The British Caribbean Bank/F.T. Williams team dominated the Weekend Warriors’ Burrell Boom circuit race, with Mark Gentle clocking 2:04:55 to win the A category on the 40-mile race from Leslie’s Imports to the DataPro junction of the Burrell Boom bypass with the Philip Goldson Highway and back to Belize City on Sunday morning. Team BCB/FT Williams had 3 riders in the top 10 and 5 total in the top 20. Here are the results: 2nd James Frampton – Team Santino’s 3rd Wilbert Jones – Benny’s Megabytes 4th Chris Coye – invitee- 1st in B category 5th Barney Brown – Scotiabank 6th Jack Sutherland – Digicel 4G 7th Stephen Bissett – Team BNE

GSU AGAIN!! - Mechanic says GSU officers abused and threatened to kill him
Belize City mechanic Allan McCoy has accused the notorious Gang Suppression Unit of putting a hellish beat down on him. McCoy had left MJ’s Nightclub on West Collet Canal on Saturday morning when a dark-tinted vehicle with no license plates drove next to his pickup truck and he heard shots being fired. He said he thought it was a robbery attempt, so he sped off. When he looked into his rear view mirror, he saw the flashing lights of a siren so, believing it was the Police, he stopped. It was law enforcement officers but not the regular Police. It was the elite, heavily-armed, military-trained Gang Suppression Unit which was on the prowl in response to a report that Police Constable Dejohn Cayetano had just been knocked down while driving a motorcycle at the corner of North Front Street and Douglas Jones Street. They learnt that the culprit was driving a pickup truck, which led them to McCoy.

Guatemalans build military base for Belize - Opposition Leader protests; blasts UDP Government for not being “awake”
The UDP has gone too far in allowing Guatemala to disrespect our sovereignty and dignity. It has gone too far, and has even cost the life of a young Belizean officer of the law, 20 year old Danny Conorquie. Now there’s the news that the UDP is blindly allowing the Guatemalans to poke fun at us. In no other country would a Government allow an “enemy” state with whom it has a live dispute over territory and full sovereignty to meddle with its national security plan. Clearly allowing such a thing to happen is absurd, but not to the UDP. They are the mothers of absurdity. This Dean Barrow-led UDP Government is allowing a Guatemalan company and Guatemalan workers to construct a military base for the Belize Coast Guard at Hunting Caye. Hunting Caye, which is located within the Sapodilla Marine Reserve, falls right in the 12,700 kilometres of Belizean territory that is claimed by Guatemala. This is absurd! It is also very worrisome because the Prime Minister admitted today that he didn’t even know that it was a Guatemalan company doing the work, even though the construction has been going on for over a year. That the Leader of the Government is asleep at the wheels while the “enemy” keeps “busy” is a grave situation. Clearly the Prime Minister has been on too many personal vacations in Miami.

BUSTED!!! - Barrow caught violating the Finance and Audit Act
The Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Dean Barrow has been busted by the Opposition, People’s United Party (PUP) and the media, in particular Jules Vasquez of Channel 7. The PM has been exposed making excessive borrowing from the Petrocaribe Fund provided by the Venezuelan Government but not seeking proper approval from the House of Representatives for it. The UDP Government has been borrowing monies from the fund and spending without adhering to the Laws of Belize. The Finance and Audit (Reform) Act of 2005 requires that any effecting borrowing by the Government of Belize that is over or above ten million Belize dollars (BZ$10.0m), or the aggregate of the said sum in any fiscal year shall require a resolution by the National Assembly to approve such borrowing.

18 Cops in Interdiction for Alleged Misconduct
18 Police Officers are currently under investigation for alleged misconduct, according to Assistant Superintendent of Police Glen Rivero, who heads the Police’s Professional Standard Branch. These officers are on interdiction pending the outcome of investigations being conducted by the Police. That number will increase after three more allegations surfaced of Police abuse this week. There is Allan McCoy who said he was detained and beaten up wrongfully by the GSU on Saturday morning. Then there is the case of 22 year old Tremane Ciego, who said that on Sunday night while he walked home from work, he was abused and robbed by two Police Officers.

From A Little Room in an Unpainted Building
A Spanish expedition setting out from Yucatán to Chetumal in 1531, faces fierce Maya resistance from leader Nachankan who announced the tribute he would pay would be turkeys in the shape of spears and corn in the shape of arrows. Powerful British of the Bay in 1787 began to pass laws, which resulted in them owning four-fifths of all the land. This settlement was 86% African, just two years after the infamous St. George’s Caye battle, a distorted figure since no one counted the indigenous Maya on the register, and the main reason they counted Africans was that they were still enslaved assets. In the 19th century the mahogany lords band their slaves from cultivating this land, a historical African tradition; and instead structured the economy on exploitation and extraction feeding the headquarters of the British Empire 5200 miles away. My young brothers this is a land of struggle and resistance to oppression. The British were constantly in fear of revolts and escapes. One such revolt in 1773 lasted five months and was only suppressed with help from a British naval force from Jamaica. In 1820 the British reported “two Slave Towns – long formed in the Mountains to the northward of the Sibun.” On the white paper it says that slavery was finally abolished in 1838, but who still owned the land, and who controlled the power and wealth of the economic system that had been established and entrenched by empire?

ILLEGAL BORROWING & SPENDING!!
The Loan Motion seeking to ratify GoB’s unauthorized borrowing (and partial spending) of $228,000,000.00 BZ since September, 2012, in its recital is said to be in compliance with section 7(2) of the Finance & Audit (Reform) Act, 2005. Far from complying with the Act, the Loan Motion seeks to ratify/confirm an illegal borrowing and spending of GoB since September, 2012. The manner in which the borrowing and spending has been conducted is contrary to the intent of the Act and has defeated and frustrated the intent of the Act, which was to provide for better provisions regulating public revenue and expenditure (taken from long title of the Act). The manner of the borrowing and spending has precluded oversight, accountability and transparency of debts incurred by GoB, without the people’s approval and consent (for that is what the National Assembly is). This is seen when these sections are considered: section 7(2), 7(8) and 7(9).

WOMAN IN THE HOUSE – SEDI STILL NO READY!!
It is clear that all Belizeans are shocked and outraged at the cold blooded execution of Special Constable Danny Conorquie. We all feel deeply for his family, and we send our condolences. Initial reports about the incident are being shown by Police not to have been true at all. Police are saying now that evidence shows that Mr. Conorquie was shot in the back in broad daylight at his place of work and while in the service of his country. Could there have been a dry eye on Friday evening when we saw his relatives Jean and Jennifer Conorquie grieving, yet still showing extreme restraint and dignity in view of the incredible comments made by Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington about this incident? We all must be shaking our collective heads about how Hon. Elrington always seems to get it wrong. How can Hon.Sedi invariably manage to completely misjudge the mood of the Belizean people? How can he possibly sit there in his home and nonchalantly talk about this incident not being at all within his remit? How can he distance himself in such a cold and uncaring manner from the outrage we are all feeling? He must be completely tone deaf and aloof from the suffering of Belizeans. He called the incident a sad shooting. A “sad” shooting, Sedi? Why not a shocking and callous shooting? Why not a wicked and egregious shooting?

A Tribute to Ramon Cervantes Sr.
Let us speak of great men! On the 18th day of July 1942, a boy child was born to Florencio and Benedicto Cervantes in the village of San Antonio, Rio Hondo. He was named Ramon, and into his 72 years, just over three scores and ten, he was able to pack a lifetime of great achievements and service to his extended and nuclear family, his political family and his community. Although from very humble beginnings, he did not stop at a primary education but went on to secondary and tertiary achievements, and he passed on this quest for a sound education to his children. From very early on he became a staunch member and supporter of the People’s United party, sharing with the Father of the Nation George Price the vision of one Belizean people and an Independent nation. He became a Standard Bearer for our great Party as well as a Senator and Mayor at different points in his career. In his later years he was a member of the Marshalls Community Service Corp and then our Order of Distinguished Service.

REFLECTIONS ON THE PUBLIC SQUARE – HAPPY 64TH BIRTHDAY PUP!!
On Monday, September 29th, 2014 the People’s United Party celebrated its 64th Birthday. Over these past 64 years, the PUP has been at the center of Belize’s social, political, and economic development every step of the way. The PUP led the nationalist movement that charted our nation’s course to self-government and political Independence in 1981. Every major achievement in Belize’s history and development has come with the PUP leading the way. While the UDP cowered and said Belize was not ready for Independence, George Price and the PUP boldly led the way. It is the PUP who launched an aggressive Land Reform Program which took lands away from major foreign landowners and put them in the hands of the Belizean people. It is the PUP which built roads and bridges connecting all our district towns. It is the PUP that brought water and electricity to even the most remote communities in our country. It is the PUP that established Social Security and the National Health Insurance (NHI). It is the PUP that established our capital of Belmopan and created a sense of national unity through our flag, national symbols, National Anthem.

Green Tropics & Valley of Peace farmers settle land dispute
After months of legal fighting over land access and use, the farmers of Valley of Peace and representatives of Green Tropics, a private company that recently started in Belize, have reached a settlement that has restored peace in the community. In March of this year, the farmers accused the company of destroying their crops valued at thousands of dollars after the company carried out fly-over spraying. The company rejected the claim and launched its own offensive, accusing the farmers of encroaching on lands which they privately own. The company, furthermore, threatened the farmers to move out of the lands or they would seek legal recourse.

Blogs

This Past Week on Ambergris Caye Has Been the Most Beautiful Ever
So September is over. The slowest of the slow period (or maybe it’s tied with October)… the heart of the hurricane season (September 11th is the peak statistically when it comes to storms) and what I thought was an excellent month. I so love September celebrations. I also think we’ve had some pretty gorgeous weather. Yes it was rainy and grey for four days two weeks ago, but otherwise, it has been HOT and just incredibly blue. I’ve written a few posts about why you MUST come to Belize in September. And I stand by it. Here are some pictures from this past week…

A guide to diving Esmeralda Canyons
If you ever get a chance to dive into the waters in front of Ambergris Caye, make sure at least one of your dives is at Esmeralda Canyons. It is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful sites on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. For reasons that only an oceanographer may be able to explain, the sites there share a distinct geography that features hard coral ridges running west to east. These structures gradually extend and create deep canyons, like rows of bookshelves in a vast underwater library. Atop the hard coral that appears to have been built up by countless generations of coral polyps, soft corals speckle the landscape: sea fans rock back and forth to the music of the waves, and sea plumes dance, inclined into the direction of a gentle whispering current. Esmeralda reigns supreme in this area because it boasts its own collection of unique canyons plus a bustling community of nurse sharks, rays, moray eels and spiny-lobsters. A typical dive trip out to the Hol-Chan area, where the dive site is located, may take five minutes if you’re diving off San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye. If your trip is leaving out of Caye Caulker it will take about 40 minutes and it is almost always worth the travel time.

International Sources

This illustrated guide makes marine protected areas fascinating
Awesome...

Caribbean Utilities Company, Ltd. Successful Bidder to Build New Generation on Grand Cayman
Fortis Inc. ("Fortis" or the "Corporation") (FTS) announced that the Electricity Regulatory Authority ("ERA") has selected the proposal of Caribbean Utilities Company, Ltd. ("Caribbean Utilities") (CUP.U), the Corporation's operating utility on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, to build new generation capacity in response to the ERA's request for proposals issued on January 31, 2014. As a result, Caribbean Utilities will develop and operate a new 39.7-megawatt ("MW") diesel power plant, including a 2.7-MW waste heat recovery steam turbine. The project cost is estimated at US$85 million and the plant will be commissioned no later than June 2016.

SPRFMO scientific Committee assesses jack mackerel quotas for 2015
Chilean delegates are attending the second meeting of the Scientific Committee of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) held in Honolulu, Hawaii, which ends on Tuesday, 7 October. The Chilean delegation is composed of representatives of the Undersecretariat of Fisheries and Aquaculture (SUBPESCA), the Fisheries Development Institute (IFOP) and Institute for Fisheries Research. Maria Angela Barbieri, chief of SUBPESCA Fisheries Management Division stressed that Chile's participation in this event is very important. "The country is an important member of ths RFMO, in which discussions are held on the conservation status of a resource that is really relevant to us as jack mackerel and inputs for its management at the regional level are given," the official explained.

Videos

Video: Interpretation Of Belize National Anthem - Rene VILLANUEVA, Sr. [Love FM 98.1], 15min.
Ripped From Love FM Online Internet Radio By Mardo A. L. Urbina On October 4th, 2014; And Edited By Mardo A. L. Urbina On October 5th, 2014.

Video: Belize Zip Line September 2014, 3.5min.
Went on a Zip Line in Belize City, Belize.

Video: Hot Mama Angie Harmon Rocks Bikinis In Belize, 1min.
Hot Mama Angie Harmon Rocks Bikinis In Belize Hot Mama Angie Harmon Rocks Bikinis In Belize.

Video: French Lady Guest House - Caye Caulker - Belize, 2min.

October 5, 2014

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5 and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Fish for Sunday Dinner
Taking into account all those life-lesson stories I’d read online – at work (sorry boss), I decided to look around me. Breathing in. Taking in the sights. All that good stuff. I looked up. Not even that high up, there was a bunch of frigate birds swooping out and about, which had to mean someone was cleaning fish. Sure enough, round the bend and just behind a dive shop sign, was a mess of fish on a rickety table. A mom and her young son were cleaning fish and eager birds hovered above waiting for some scraps. A huge Jack got the clean-up treatment, and the young boy threw up pieces into the air for the birds. Mom says the fish is for Sunday dinner (that’s lunch and probably leftovers for dinner).

A sports man and role model: Kent Aneri Gabourel
While many opt to get as much sleep as possible in the mornings, San Pedro star athlete, Kent Aneri Gabourel prefers to rise before the break of dawn to get ahead, training and practicing for the sports he loves. Gabourel, better known as Bob, is no stranger to The San Pedro Sun, as we have featured him on several occasions for his countless achievements in cycling, running and triathlon competitions. But this is the first time we’ve learned more about the man himself, and we even gave up our gold medal in sleeping to catch him in training action with fellow island athletes Russel Dominguez and Eric Donis. 34-year-old Gabourel is originally from Unitedville Village in the Cayo District. He spent the first 20 years of his life there surrounded by a sports centric family. “I was born into the life of an athlete. My dad, Kent “Kenty” Gabourel, is a huge football legend in Belize, so I pretty much grew up watching him play. My mom, Jean Gabourel, also played football and softball, she even still plays today at the age of 54. My sister was also a great athlete in both sports. Most of my childhood I remember either watching my family’s sports matches or being on the field, playing myself,” said Gabourel. The strong sports influence shaped Gabourel into the exceptional athlete he is today. “Football has been my favorite sport because that is what my family is known for. But I played softball in high school and did track and field too. But most importantly, running is my ease in life. When I’m running, I’m one with myself, in my own world.”

Dr. Nidia Larrinaga joins Polyclinic Staff
On Tuesday September 30th, Dr. Nidia Larrinaga joined the line of health care professionals at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II. Dr. Larrinaga, who is originally from Cuba is a naturalized citizen of Belize and has been living and working in the country for the past 16 years. While Dr. Larrinaga specializes in family medicine, she works in the capacity of a general practitioner, and especially enjoys attending to her tiniest patients in pediatrics. Dr. Larrinaga is expected to be on the island for a period of two years and is looking forward to serving the community and enjoying the sun, sand, and sea of Ambergris Caye.

Belize Institute of Mixology host Advance Bartending Course
On September 27, 2014 the Belize Institute of Mixology (BIM) graduated its second set of participants. This was the Advanced Course and lasted for five full days. The previous course was geared towards those that had little or no experience and most of them were then qualified and had the option of taking the Advanced course as the conditions to take it was either a minimum of 3 years’ experience in an active bar or to have successfully completed the Introduction course. This latest course created a flurry of excitement as the participants were then learning a whole new level of Bartending that included liquor and wine segments, pairing, building complex cocktails, as well as a visit to the Belikin plant where they were given the VIP treatment. They learned all about Belikin and our guest instructor, Dr Cuellar made his presentation on alcohol awareness as well. Bowen’s group of companies have partnered with the BIM team and as such, this segment will always be available in the advanced. They also presented the participants with their own certificates as well as gift packages.

Misc Belizean Sources

QUINTANA ROO, Mexico and BELIZE hold VIII Bi-national Meeting
The bilateral agreements seek to strengthen the fight against transnational crime and establish a new and healthy outlook between the two borders. Governor of Quitana Roo, Mexico Roberto Borge Angulo spoke of his country’s continued willingness to strengthen the bonds of friendship that exist with the Belizean people. The Government of Quintana Roo reiterated its commitment to protect the common border shared with Belize against illegal activities of organized crime and to establish new joint strategies in the matter of prevention to the health and protection of the environment. On behalf of Governor Roberto Borge Angulo, the secretary of the State, Gabriel Mendicuti Loría affirmed at the VIII Binational Meeting Mexico/Belize that “the quintanarroenses seek to strengthen the bonds of friendship that have historically united us with our neighboring country”.

3 weeks internship at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Florida for Caves Branch Botanical Garden
Two people from our garden will be going to the 3 weeks internship at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Florida. We work with that Botanical garden on inventory of epiphytes of Belize and really happy to be able to go to expand our knowledge on that topic. The Gardens reportedly maintain the most diverse collection of bromeliads in the world, and feature over 20,000 plants from some 6000 species in 1200 genera from 214 plant families, including 6,000 live orchids. We were happy to host their team here in April and looking forward to the future trips.

The Reporter

Another fatal shooting in Belize City
Reports are that there were two shpotings in the early hours of Saturday in Belize City. We understand that one of the shootings happened on North Front Street and the other occured on Vernon Street. Information reaching The Weekend Reporter Online is that one of the shootings was fatal. Police have not yet issyed any details of these latest incidents.

Man shot and killed during power outage
Gerald Palmer, 27, a food vendor of Barrack Road in Belize City was shot and killed on Thursday night, not far away from his house. The incident occured on Grants Alley shortly after 9 p.m. and Palmer, who suffered bullet wounds to his hest and arms, died early Friday morning at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Police say that Palmer was walking on Grants Alley towards Barrack Road when a man approached him as he reached the corner of Grants Alley and Cards Alley. Police have recovered five 9 milimeter expended shells and a .380 expended shell from the scene. They are trying to figure out how teo different types of expended shells were at the scene if reports indicate that there was only one shooter.

Coastal weekends off with film festival
The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute ended “coastal zone awareness week” with a film festival at the Memorial Park in Belize City. The event showcased nine short films submitted to the CZMAI amateur film maker’s competition. Each submission had to be between two and four minutes long and reflective of this year’s theme: Planned Development Today for a Sustainable Coast Tomorrow. First, second, and third place prizes were awarded, along with a viewer’s choice award for the most likes on the CZMAI Face Book page. First place was awarded to Haywaed Corrie and Johnny Cantun of Ocean Accademy Caye Caulker.

Messi to face trial for tax evasion
Lionel Messi, Barcelona and Argentina football star is to face trial for alleged tax evasion. A Spanish judge has rejected a prosecution recommendation to drop the charges on the grounds that the player’s father was responsible for his finances. Messi and his father, Jorge are accused of defrauding the authorities of more than US $5 million. The pair, who deny wrongdoing, have five days to appeal against the ruling. It is alleged that they withheld the money between 2007 and 2009. Messi and his father are suspected of avoiding paying Spanish tax by using companies in Belize and Uruguay to sell the rights to use Messi’s image.

Patrick Jones

Early morning fire destroys building in Punta Gorda town
An early morning fire in Punta Gorda town today completely gutted a two-storey building. Personnel of the PG Fire Service responded to the blaze just after 3 am today at the on West Street. According to reports, the building was unoccupied at the time of the fire […]

Belize and Mexico sign cooperation agreements
The eighth binational commission meeting between Belize and Mexico concluded on Friday after a marathon round of discussions between one of Mexico’s largest diplomatic delegations and their Belizean counterparts. Agreements were signed for in the following matters: 1) Memorandum of understanding in tourism cooperation. 2) Letter of intent […]

Credit unions perform strategic planning
October is celebrated internationally as the month of credit unions. Known as the “poor man’s bank”, the credit union is a source of affordable financing for Belizeans for almost any venture small or large. But as the nation develops credit unions are confronting specific challenges in reaching key targets including the […]

Taiwanese trade delegation visits Belize
The Republic of China (Taiwan)’s Central American Trade Office (CATO) and representatives of private companies have concluded a working visit to Belize. From September 27 to 30 a seven member delegation visited Belize to explore the potential opportunities for cooperation and to promote the trade relationship between Belize and Taiwan. […]

Belize: Getting Behind The National Security Money
By Richard Harrison Most Belizeans feel that there is a trend of declining personal safety inside the borders of the country….and more recently, believe that there is also increasing threat from beyond the borders, and especially from Guatemala. The budget proposed for the Ministry of National Security for 2014/15 is $114.8 million [14% of the […]

Murder on Pickstock Street; stabbing in Belama Phase 4
A shooting incident in Belize City on Friday night has left one man dead. Police have not yet confirmed, but the victim has been identified to us as Harrison Smith. According to reports received, Smith was shot multiple times at the corner of North Front and Pickstock […]

Foreign Minister insists on cautious approach to Guatemala
One week and some days after seeming to suggest that there was no evidence pointing to the killers of Special Constable Danny Conorquie being conclusively Guatemalan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington has not backed down. He told reporters on Friday that one week after the 20-year-old’s death, there […]

Demonstrators target embassy of Guatemala in Belize City
A few Belizeans took their protests over the death of Special Constable Danny Conorquie to the doorsteps of the Guatemalan Embassy on A Street in the King’s Park area on Friday. They demanded the Guatemalan Government respond and help Belize catch Conorquie’s killers. The Government has officially been informed and […]