Recent Belize News, 6/11/2015 to 6/20/2015, BelizeNews.com

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Catching up with the Lobster Crawl at Di’Vu
For the entire week the lobster crawl has been making its highly anticipated stops at some of our favorite restaurants around town including Pineapple’s, Crazy Canuks, El Divino, Pedro’s Pizza, and Amber Beach Bar to name a few. Today we got a chance to catch up on all the lobster yumminess at Di’Vu located on Wet Willy’s Dock. Be sure to crawl on over to Pirates Treasure tonight to get those passports stamped and remember to join in on all of the action tomorrow June 20th at the Central Park BLOCK PARTY! Trust us you don’t want to miss out o!

Baydr Sajia and Ronnie Sosa represent Belize at XV Central American Beach Volleyball Championship
Two island residents represented Belize in the XV Central American Beach Volleyball Championship held from Friday, June 12th to Sunday, June 14th in Puerto Cortez, Honduras. 31-year-old Baydr Sajia from San Pedro Town and 30-year-old Ronnie Sosa from Caye Caulker Village are long time beach volleyball players, and even though they did not win the championship, they certainly made Belize proud. The tournament featured 11 female teams and 12 male teams from participating countries Costa Rica (CR), Guatemala (GUA), El Salvador (ESA), Honduras (HON), Nicaragua (NIC), Belize (BIZ), and Panama (PAN). Participating women’s team included: CRC 1 Karen Cope/Natalia Alfaro, CRC 2 Eugenia Ramírez/Yuliana González, GUA 1 María José Orellana/María André Orellana, GUA 2 Blanca Recinos/Ada Patricia Villalobos, ESA 1 Ivonne Soler de Tobar/Laura Molina, ESA 2Kathya Vásquez/María Fernanda Vargas, HON 1 Gina Flores/Martha Euceda, HON 2 Christianne Etches/Jarisa Hynds, NCA 1 Elia Machado/Lolette Rodríguez, NCA 2 Swan Mendoza/Claudia Machado, and PAN Kihary Nicoll Pérez/Hashkyn Cuero. Male teams included: BIZ Baydr Sajia/ Ronnie Sosa, CRC 1 Diego Alpízar/Julio Alvarez, CRC 2 Bryan Monje/Richard Smith, GUA 1 Julio Recinos/Luis García, GUA 2 Andy Leonardo/Erick Garrido, ESA 1 Carlos Escobar/David Vargas, ESA 2 Franklin Flores/Armando Guatemala, HON 1 Mercuri Miller/Wilfredo Vega, HON 2 Luis Baide/Manuel Serrano, NCA 1Rubén Mora/Dany Alvarado, NCA 2 Gerald Umaña/Gerson Contreras), and PAN Carlos Enrique Sanjur/Jasón Omar Quintero. The tournament was divided into six group, with Sajia and Sosa playing in Group D against HON 1 and PAN male teams.

USAV Brandy Military Station conducting Land Operations in Belize
USAV Brandy Military Station was spotted off the coast of San Pedro on Tuesday, June 16th. The 53/10 meter special operation vessel entered Belizean waters on Saturday, June 13th (according to Port of Belize logs) on a special training mission. The USAV Brandy is part of the Exercise Tradewinds, a United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) sponsored training exercise held annually in the Caribbean. The vessel was seen at around 3:30PM attempting to pass the ‘Entrada San Pedro’ cut. Exercise Tradewinds has two phases, Maritime and Land Operations. On board the vessel is a team of four officers and 36 other ranks from the Coast Guard, and three other ranks as supporting staff. The Maritime Phase took place in St. Kitts and Nevis from Saturday, May 30th to Thursday, June 9th. The Land Operations Phase are being held in Belize from Sunday, June 14th to Wednesday, June 24th. The aim of Exercise Tradewinds is to help Caribbean nations to be better able to counter land and maritime security threats such as human smuggling, and trafficking of illegal weapons and ammunition.

Work continues on North Ambergris Caye Road
Work on the second phase of the North Ambergris Caye road commenced about a month ago and it is to comprise of four miles of cemented road. The project was expected to last three months, depending on the weather. In the first weeks, the road has been widened, extended, filled with layers of hardcore material and compacted. The work is being done by Romel Burgess Construction and aims at improving the tourism fabric on the island. This second phase comes with an estimated cost of $4 million and is being financed by the Government of Belize (GOB) in coordination with the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC). According to Deputy Mayor, Gary Greif, the project will not just boost tourism but also add more traffic on the north part of the island, benefiting the north business community on a whole. “The first direct benefit of this infrastructure development will be for the golf cart rentals and the people that sell fuel. As the road becomes more accessible, more people will drive up north, thus increasing the consumption of fuel.” He also touched on the impact it will have on tourism. “It will also definitely boost the economy of the island as there will be better accessibility to the northern hotels. Visitors and residents alike will see the benefits. If a guest wants to come to downtown San Pedro they will not have to worry about a bumpy ride to town because the road will be in excellent condition. In turn, town businesses get a boost as well,” said Greif. Even though the project is slated for just seven miles, the Central Government has plans to extend the pavement up to Basil Jones area where lots have been subdivided and given to residents of San Pedro.

Empowering Women through new markets for Invasive Lionfish Jewelry
Blue Ventures, a Sarteneja based organization, focusing on lionfish jewelry, held a presentation in San Pedro on Tuesday, June 9th at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve office. The presentation was aimed at introducing the skill to six island women. Disadvantaged women from fishing families were shown how to make lionfish jewelry that can be sold to tourists and earn an extra income. The event is centered with the purpose of providing a means of economic empowerment for these women and their families. It is expected that 10 women from across the country will be selected following the community presentation from at least four coastal communities across Belize to participate in a 3-day training to be held in August in Belmopan City. According to Country Coordinator, Jennifer Chapman, at each presentation there is an application form which every participant needs to fill out in order to participate in the workshop. “The 3-day workshop taking place in August is being facilitated and organized by Blue Ventures with the assistance of two Belizean lionfish jewelers as trainers. It will be done in Belmopan the center of the country and therefore more accessible for women from the country side to attend,” said Chapman via a phone interview. “The objective of the workshop will be to train participants in three main areas: safe handling of lionfish and preparation of materials, construction and design of jewelry and lessons of business development as well.”

Ambergris Today

Graduation Season is here!!!
Celebrating this week is the senior class of Isla Bonita Elementary School. Continuing in the island tradition of Uniform Signing started by San Pedro High School, the students graduating this Saturday had fun writing messages on each other's uniforms. Congratulations to all the Graduates.

Celebrity Spotting – Chef Christy Bono Vacations in San Pedro
Famous Southern California chef and restaurant owner Christy Bono on vacation in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, comments on the great hospitality of islanders and the good food of Belize. Chisty is the daughter of the late singer Sonny Bono (Sonny & Cher: "I Got You Babe") who later turned politician, first as the mayor of Palm Springs and then as a U.S. congressman. She is also the stepdaughter of award winning singer Cher and the sister of Chasity Bono. Christy (55) got famous on her own merits as an accomplished chef, having owned and run several upscale restaurants in Los Angeles and Long Beach over a span of 25 years. She got the passion for cooking from her late father Sonny Bono, who had owned a restaurant in West Hollywood, CA.

Misc Belizean Sources

Solidifying the Caribbean as a Serious Trade Contender
The Caribbean put up an emphatic presentation at the EU-CELAC Summit 2015 in Brussels last week where over 500 delegates from Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean convened under the theme “Promoting inclusive and sustainable growth by enhancing the role of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises”. The event hosted by the European Commission, was attended by a delegation from the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), the only regional trade, export development and investment promotions Agency of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group and who’s presence ensured the visibility of the comparatively small region against the vast populous countries of Latin America with the attending audience.

The Retiree Program That Can Save You Thousands
Since they often head back to Canada to visit grandchildren, the couple decided that the country’s retiree program, the Qualified Retired Persons program, gave them the most flexibility and saved them money. The program, run by the Belizean Tourism Board, is easy to qualify for. Aside from submitting paperwork like birth certificates, marriage license, and a clean criminal record, the most important requirements are that you be 45 or older and have an income of at least $2,000 per month from a pension, Social Security, or some other stable source that is deposited in a bank in Belize. The Belizean Tourism Board has also been known to accept applications from those who deposit $24,000 from a savings account into a Belizean bank annually or who have a monthly income of $2,000 or more from retirement investment accounts. Paul and Gail had some expensive must-haves they wanted to bring with them to Belize, and the program helped with that. You can bring in a container of household goods, a car (less than three years old), a light aircraft, or a boat tax-free.

Mrs. Elda Lara Hancock passes away
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to extend its deepest condolences to the Lara/Hancock family on the passing of Mrs. Elda Lara Hancock. May her soul rest in peace.

Colorado State University's Conservation Leadership Program
The students of Colorado State University's Conservation Leadership Program recently visited us in Sarteneja to learn about our Lionfish Project. After hearing about our upcoming lionfish jewellery workshop, for which we have funding to support 10 participants, and hearing the stories of some of the applicants, these incredible students felt compelled to launch a campaign so that we can say YES to more women, increasing impact and spreading the benefit further. Belize is 25/26 in the 2014 Gender Gap Report for the LAC region. This workshop helps women gain economic independence and addresses the lionfish invasion head on. It costs just USD 500 per participant - please donate to this worthy cause! Thank you CSU-CLP students!

Peccary sightings
Courtesy Shipstern Conservation and Management Area! It’s not often that we have the opportunity to feature a wildlife encounter in the field. The chances of capturing those images are extremely slim but every now and again we get lucky. Last week, our Rangers ran into a drove of about 75 white-lipped peccaries and one of our Rangers was able to get out his camera just in time to catch this image. White-lipped peccaries are very special specie as they are a critical key indicator species. A presence of these is usually indicative of a reasonably healthy ecosystem.

The Fact Corner. Courtesy: Belize Sugar Industries!
Take a look at our new "Fact Corner" where we will be sharing and highlighting facts about the Belize Sugar Industries.The purpose of this segment is to inform and educate our Belizean & international audience with factual and reliable information!

Corozal ART IN THE PARK
Reminder - ART IN THE PARK - today Saturday June 20th!

June 7th – June 13th, 2015 Report
Another great Orvis group trip led by Joe from Orvis Travel with everyone getting some good fishing time in despite some windy and overcast conditions. Tarpon fishing was pretty darn good for those who didn’t mind doing some blind casting.

Mr. Romilio "Pelon" Interiano passes away
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to extend its deepest condolences to the Interiano family on the passing of Mr. Romilio "Pelon" Interiano. May his soul rest in peace. Mr. Interiano was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away in Orange Walk.

New business on Caye Caulker
New business on d island...Stressless Tours! Owners are Keith Nichlas Anderson and Joanna Penelope and it's located on Calle Al Sol, Caye Caulker. Best wishes for them both!!

Channel 7

San Pedro Resort Owner Courts Gay Tourists
San Pedro town has long been known for its thriving gay community – but one resort owner is taking it to another level completely: he’s courting the gay tourist market – with an event called the Biggest LGBT Pride Event in Belize’s History. It’s a week long event planned for September at the Caribbean Villas Hotel and gay guests will be regaled with, quote, “Drag shows, Toga Parties, Leather & Lace Parties, Reg-gay Nights, a Masquerade Ball, a Runway Model Show and more... !!” Now, the resort owner says he’s just trying to tap into an available and lucrative tourist market – but he’s also toeing the fault line for one of Belize’s biggest cultural wars. Today Caleb Orozco told us, bring it on:.. Caleb Orosco - Executive Director, UNIBAM "I was as surprised as you to have received the Facebook release from our people in the community and for us we applaud any private sector event that promotes a climate of inclusion."

Police Catch Castro - Girlfriend Says He Made Her Swallow a Bullett!
Tonight a Dangriga woman has a bullet lodged in her, but not from a shooter – she was made to swallow it by an abusive boyfriend! That boyfriend was caught in Dangriga today –and he is Kenworth Castro – the nephew of Minister of State Edmond Castro. Earlier this week police responded to a complaint in Maskall Village – where Castro had tied her up and stuffed an undershirt in her mouth as a gag. She was holding unto her infant child – but he took the child out of her hand – and put the baby to sleep. He then texted his cousin to bring a gun for him and took out three bullets – one of which he forced into her mouth. He told her to give him back the bullet – but fearing for her life, she did not. That’s when he tried to forced it out of her mouth, and during that process, she swallowed it – the X-Ray shows that it is still lodged there days later. She went to hide out in Dangriga – and today, after being wanted for two days – police picked up Castro in that southern town – where he was still pursuing her at her family home. He will be brought back to the Belize District for charges

The Battle For Channel 5 Going to The CCJ
The battle over ownership and control of the Channel 5 TV Station is going to Caribbean Court of Justice. That’s what the attorney for the current government controlled BTL asked the Court of Appeal today to allow. Last year in November, attorneys for the Aschroft Alliance and BTL went before the judges of the Court of Appeal. BTL attorney Michael Young argued before the court that the action by the former directors of the company – before it was nationalised – did the telecommunications company a serious financial injury when they divested Channel 5 as an asset and spun its ownership into a completely separate entity. He submitted that 10 million dollars of revenues from BTL was lost when both companies were separated, and that those former directors ought to be personally liable for that money. The Supreme Court agreed with him, but at the Court of Appeal, the panel accepted the arguments of Eamon Courtenay, the attorney for the former Directors. His position was that they were protected from any such liability by an indemnity. The Court of Appeal Agreed with them, but the current Management of BTL is refusing to accept that as a final decision. Michael Young made an application today to the Court of Appeal to be granted leave to appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice. Outside of court, we asked him why:

Cardona Says "No Suspension"; He's Still A Practicing Attorney
Attorney Marcel Cardona says the news of his professional demise has been greatly exaggerated. Two weeks ago, this media house and others reported that the General Legal Council had decided to suspend Cardona for a year based on a complaint of professional misconduct. This complaint was lodged in June of 2013 and it alleged that he had defrauded a foreign client, and also allegedly confessed in an email to bribing a court officer for the release of an accused person. In interviews on June 5th, Cardona confirmed that he too had heard the reports, but he maintained his innocence and blamelessness. Well, today, through his attorney at the Marine Parade Law Chambers, he issued a statement saying, quote, “no decision has been made by the General Legal Council to suspend Mr. Cardona from the practice of law.”

The Fascinating Taxonomy Of Belize's Favourite And Most Fetishized Fruit
At this time of the year - after the first rains – it’s a mango lovers’ feast, a veritable festival of flavours. But, in Belize, a mango is more than just a fruit – it’s like what snowflakes are to Eskimos: they have a thousand words for snow – and, if that’s true, Belizeans must have a thousand names for different kinds of mangos! Of course, there are the well-known staples: Number 11, Slippers, and the ever popular Black Mangoes. But did you know about the obscure Tommy Hawkey, the buff Big Ben, the exotic Cambodiamas, cousins Sandy Shaw and Tanga Shaw, or the rare Gold mango? Well, I didn’t – and today I went to the market for an education in the fascinating taxonomy of Belize’s favourite and most fetishised fruit:… Courtney Weatherburne Reporting.... With the mango season in full swing, walking through the market is like going through a garden of a thousand lights, each mango with it's own look and flavour. For the uninitiated, these are just mangoes but for the connoisseur of this succulent fruit, each mango has a story of its own.

PUC Objects To PUC Fees
Earlier in the newscast, we told you about BTL’s legal fight over who owns Channel 5. Well, there was another case from the Court which involves the other telecoms company, Speednet, better known as “Smart”. In 2011, Speednet sued the Public Utilities Commission claiming that the utilities regulator was overcharging them for licensing of 238 channels used to conduct their business such as phone calls, text messaging and data. How much was Smart accusing the PUC of overcharging them? Almost 800,000 dollars, so the company asked the Supreme Court to rule on whether or not the PUC made errors in doing so, and the case was decided by Justice Legall. He dismissed the case, and so, they took it to the Court of Appeal for a second opinion, which was handed down today. The attorney for PUC told us outside of court that they were somewhat more successful this time around: Fred Lumor, SC – Attorney for PUC "It's an appeal against the judgement of justice Legall which was lodged by speednet communications. The PUC had assess certain charges in the schedule to the telecommunications act for speednet to be paid. Speednet contention is that the fees are too large, onerous and too expensive and it was due to misinterpretation of the schedule of fees by PUC. So they asked the court to clarify the meaning of the schedule. The court rejected the appeal but partly accepted the argument of speednet. So the appeal was allowed to certain extent meaning that the fees are not to be paid in advance but should be paid in arrears since speednet has paid PUC the fees in advance. The court ordered that PUC should pay interest on over 700,000 dollars to each speednet paid to PUC as fees in advance - meaning that PUC would have to make payments of 6% interest on that money back to speednet. However, since speednet is to pay fees to PUC, they can set it off against future payments. So in a nutshell that was the decision this morning."

Tzul Chanced By Chan Pine Ridge Cops
Late this evening, Orange Walk resident, Damian Tzul came all the way from his village of Chan Pine Ridge to complain about what he describes as brutality from Orange Walk Police. Tzul, who says that he is an activist in his community, and a former police officer with 12 years of service, says that one his former colleagues in the uniform treated him roughly last night. He says that they came to arrest him on a commitment warrant for a fee he owed the court for several years now: Here’s how he described it: Tzul says that he has gone to complain to police internal affairs, and he’s also made a criminal complaint about the officer. He asserts that he is not anti-police, and that he suspects he was brutalised by an officer who was under the influence of alcohol while on duty.

Mental Health Matters For The Ageing
When most of us think about getting old – the main thing we focus on is the physical deterioration. But, the mental part of ageing is just as, or even more important. Things like grief, dementia and depression are very real issues that make coping and caring for the ageing a challenge. That’s why the ministry of health today held a mental health and ageing workshop for health professionals and caregivers. I found out more from the Nursing Administrator, in the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Program, Eleanor Bennett:.. Eleanor Bennett - Nursing Administrator, in the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Program "Today we have a workshop, we call it mental health and ageing and it's sponsored by the mental heath unit. The workshop - the main focus is to make sure the mental health staff in particular, is updated with their most recent knowledge as it relates to mental health care. We have a facilitator from New York, the Mount Sinai school of medicine - her name is Dr. Aloese and she comes from the department of psychiatry and neurology. And she spent a lot of her time doing cognitive research, research on the brain functions. She's focusing on disorders of the elderly which include dementia, the most common one is alzheimer. She will talk about mood disorders, anxiety disorders and talk about problems of the elderly such as grief and isolation."

Talking Tradewinds
Tradewinds is an annual Caribbean-based military exercise organised by the U.S. Southern Command to strengthening partnerships- principally in the area of drug trafficking, but also in disaster response. For the month of June, the U.S. Coast Guard is linking up with partners from 18 other nations, along with crews from the U.S Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and National Guard, to train in damage control operations, non-compliant vessel operations and other maritime activities. Phase one of the exercise started in St KItts and Nevis and now the crew is in Belize. Today 7news travelled to the island town of San Pedro to get a firsthand view of an operation Tradewind Dive exercise. Monica Bodden Reporting... Phase two of the Tradewinds exercise focuses on increasing national tactics and procedures for tracking, intercepting, and boarding suspect vessels. The 16 member dive training team provides the Belize Coast Guard and Mexican Navy training in the areas of group diving tactics. During this week the teams conducted hull search, bottom search and recovery- while practicing evidence site contamination prevention techniques.

BTL Says "Buh-Bye" To Gmail
“BTL.NET” – it’s been around since the mid 90’s and is probably the oldest email domain in Belize. Even in the age of gmail, yahoo and other web based mail solutions, “btl.net” still has thousands of users, in fact – right here at Channel 7 – our main business mail is still [email protected]. But this weekend, btl.net users will have to change up their configuration – that’s because for the second time in 5 years, BTL is migrating the service to another server. Google has decided to terminate the service called gmail.bet.net, and so BTL has formed a new partnership with the email hosting and server hosting company, Rackspace, which is based in the US. This evening, BTL’s IT engineering Manager explained to us what it means for those who still use a “btl.net” address:

The Tenth Film Festival
NICH and the Film Commission are preparing for the 10th annual Belize International Film Festival - which will be start one month from today. 115 films – a number of them Belizean made – were submitted this time around, and so, the judges have been hard at work to narrow that number down to the entries of the best quality. With that, the festival was officially launched today, and we spoke with the Director. Here’s what she told us: The Film Festival takes place on July 17-19th in Placencia at the Belize Ocean Club.

Channel 5

B.E.L.’s Earnings Doubled in 2014
The Belize Electricity Limited held its annual general meeting on Thursday night. Two major announcements were made at the closed-door meeting of the government-controlled utility company held at the Radisson. [...]

Court of Appeal Dismisses Speednet Claim
The two telephone companies were before the Court of Appeal which today concluded its second session for this year. First we go to the case of SpeedNet Communications Limited, the [...]

Court Upholds PUC Fees Per Channel
Attorney Lumor says the Court of Appeal helped to settle a major issue discussed in the court below – the exact meaning of the word “channel” as used in the [...]

Telemedia to Argue Divestment Case at the CCJ
The other case had to do with Belize Telemedia Limited and it involved a process which was more of a formality than anything else. Today, the Court of Appeal granted [...]

Trade Winds 2015 – Diving the Caribbean Sea
Phase Two of the annual Trade Winds exercise is underway in Belize, as officers with various armed forces from across the region are taking part in a series of drills [...]

B.T.I.A. Pres. Says Consultation on Protected Areas Bills was Selective
Today, N.G.O.s continue to express serious concerns with two pieces of legislation allegedly tabled before Cabinet. This first is the brand new National Protected Areas System Bill and the second [...]

Says Amendments Would Negatively Impact PACT’s Function
Another concern with the N-PAS Bill is that it would establish a National Protected Areas Council, but only in an advisory capacity and not an administrative capacity as sought by [...]

Amendments Would Put PACT Board Under G.O.B. Control
And then there is a concern with the composition of the PACT Board of Directors, which would change significantly with the amendments which have been proposed. Via Phone: Osmany [...]

Immigration Reality Costs Owner of Dream-Like Bar
At the top of the newscast you heard the Court of Appeal decisions. But the Magistrate Court was also busy with immigration matters. On Thursday, the Immigration Department was on [...]

American Writer Overstays Welcome in Belize
An American writer who came to Belize legally in December 2013 on a one month permit has been detained for over staying his welcome. Allan David Head was in court [...]

Toledo Woman Faces Loss of 45 Acres of Family Land
A woman from San Pedro, Columbia in Toledo has just found out that forty-five acres of land which has been in her family since 1952 has been sold out from [...]

Marcel Cardona’s Attorney Says his Client Not Sanctioned by the GLC
Attorney Godfrey Smith on behalf of another attorney, Marcel Cardona, has today issued statement on Cardona’s behalf. It is in respect of a recent media report that the General Legal [...]

Mental Health Stakeholders Participate in Workshop
More and more persons in the Jewel are living with mental health conditions, particularly in the elderly population. Today, a mental health and ageing workshop was held at the Belize [...]

Specialized Care for Elderly Persons is a Focus
Another setback says Nurse Eleanor Bennett is that Belize does not have the trained persons in geriatric psychology and health care that should be provided to those elderly persons that [...]

Placencia to Host 10th Annual Belize International Film Festival
The tenth annual Belize International Film Festival is set to open with a bang in the next few weeks at the Ocean Club in Placencia. The festival is competitive and [...]

Film Director Discusses Award Categories
The categories for which trophies will be awarded are for Best Narrative Feature, Best Documentary Feature, Best Short Film and Best Short Documentary and Best Animation. A new category introduced [...]

Carnival Season Kicks Off This Weekend
Carnival Season is almost here and the Belize Carnival Association is inviting you to their launch this weekend. Mas Bands, entertainers and fans will kick off the season that organizers [...]

LOVE FM

Speednet and Court of Appeal Find Middle Ground in Court of Appeals
Another decision that the Court of Appeal handed down today has to do with Speednet Communications Limited, the parent company of Smart. For background, in 2011, Speednet filed a lawsuit against the Public Utilities Commission, PUC, as it relates to fees that it had been required to pay for its telephone service. The PUC had […]

BTL Will Go to the CCJ After Appeals Court Ruled Against Them
Earlier this year, the former Directors of Belize Telemedia Limited, BTL, won a judgment that declared them free of responsibility for financing Great Belize Productions to the tune of ten million dollars and divesting it from BTL in 2009 when the Government of Belize was making moves to nationalize the company. BTL sued and won […]

Caleb Urges Tourism Agencies to Make Clear Their Position on LGBT Tourists in Belize
While Stirm is against gay rights and against the planned Gay Pride Event, Activist Caleb Orozco, who is a homosexual, himself, is all for it. He says it is about time that an event of this magnitude be held in Belize. CALEB OROZCO “For my good friend Pastor Stirm, I welcome his commitment to his […]

Pastor Stirm Says Churches Will Unite In Prayer Against Gay Pride Event
The owner of Caribbean Resort Villas in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, has chosen to market a tourism package to the international community. That package is being described as the largest and most extravagant lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender event to be held in Belize. The private event is being called Temptation Island Pride Week and […]

European Union Says Belize Is Not Cracking Down on Tax Avoidance
Belize is one of the Caribbean countries blacklisted as one of the world’s 30 worst offending tax havens by the European Commission. Each of the countries on the list had been suggested by at least ten European Union member states as problematic by not doing enough to crack down on tax avoidance. The other Caribbean […]

Tradewinds 2015 – Phase II Underway in Belize
Tradewinds 2015 is currently underway in Belize. The exercise is centred in the Caribbean and entails exercises and training sessions that aim to improve the military’s response to natural disasters, land and maritime threats as well as illicit trafficking. Led by the United States military, Tradewinds 2015 is currently in its second phase. As part […]

Police Seeks Castro for Wounding and Aggravated Assault
A 19-year-old woman was reportedly traumatized about a week ago when the young man she was in a relationship with assaulted her subsequently leading to her swallowing a bullet. Reports reaching Love News are that the one year relationship had gotten hostile and violent leading to the boyfriend, Kenworth Castro now being wanted by the […]

Cardona Still Practicing Law
Two weeks ago we had reported to you that following a meeting of the General Legal Counsel, it was recommended that Attorney Marcel Cardona be suspended from practicing law in Belize following a complaint by one of his former clients. Today, however, a notice was sent out from the law firm, Marine Parade Chambers, clarifying […]

PlusTV

West Will Play with Honduras
It’s official! Woodrow West has signed a contract with the Honduran Football Club El Progreso and his heading to Honduras next week to begin training in time for the Liga Nacional De Honduras...

Michael Feinstein challenges Stake Bank takeover
Provisions in the amended contract of operation of Fort Street Tourism Village (FSTV) between its owners and the Government of Belize and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) had the effect of ensuring a continued source of revenue and satellite development through the Stake Bank project being developed b...

Allegations of fixed football match
Three football players in Belize are being investigated by CONCACAF and UNCAF for alleged match fixing. The allegations came after a match between BDF and Verdes in April 29th earlier this year, in which Verdes beat BDF six to nothing...

BTIA claims progress at general meeting
Six months ago the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) elected a new executive tasked with turning the organization around after some floundering in recent years...

FFB begging for money for National Team
The Football Federation of Belize, FFB, is turning to the public and Government for assistance going in to the third round of the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers. After spending close to $500 thousand dollars solely from FFB accounts, according to Ruperto Vicente, the federation is pretty much broke....

Refurbished courts and free WIFI
Sports enthusiasts, especially for basketball and volleyball, have already been enjoying the refurbished Basketball courts around Belmopan. Yesterday, Wednesday June 17, saw the inauguration of the refurbishment basketball court at the Mauvelene Gordon Park, the third recently inaugurated...

Maurice Felix charges upgraded to murder
Reports are that wanted accused for attempted murder 30 year old Maurice Felix turned himself in to police today...

Belize Infrastructure Limited Office burglarized
The office of Belize Infrastructure Limited in Belmopan was burglarized. Sometime between June 16 and June 17, someone broke into the building at # 1664 Market Square Area, Belmopan City...

Amandala

Maurice Felix’s attempted murder charge upgraded to murder
Police Press Officer Raphael Martinez confirmed to Amandala this afternoon that Maurice Felix, 30, who was wanted by police, but who was able to elude arrest and went under the radar for more than a week, turned himself in around 5:00 o’clock this morning. Felix was remanded to prison on charges of attempted murder, use of deadly means of harm and dangerous harm. He was granted Supreme Court bail on Friday, June 5, but on that same day, Mark Gentle (Vernon), the person whom Felix is accused of shooting, succumbed to his gunshot injuries while undergoing treatment at Belize Medical Associates, where he was transferred from the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) Intensive Care Unit. Felix was escorted to the Magistrate’s Court this morning by CIB officers, who handed him over to court police. Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser arraigned him on the upgraded charge of murder for “intentionally and unlawfully causing the death of Mark Gentle (Vernon) on June 5.”

Teachers and public officers to receive 8% salary adjustment
The paychecks of teachers and public officers will be substantially larger next month, when Government will pay what’s due to them to satisfy an 8% salary adjustment being implemented this year, amounting to an additional $38 million in salary payments. Usually, the budget figures are not finalized until months after the fiscal year closes on March 31, and the Government announced today, via the Ministry of Finance, that teachers and public officers will be receiving their salary adjustment in the coming weeks. Marvin Blades, president of the Public Service Union (PSU), who has also been representing the unions in the salary negotiations with Government, told Amandala today that the salary adjustment to cover the months of April, May and June would be included in July payments to open vote workers as well as established public officers, pensioners, teachers and all who work for the government. Others who receive increments based on merit will get an additional 2.25% salary increase, Blades said.

BEL announces record $36.2 mil in profits
On the occasion of its annual general meeting being held tonight at the Radisson Fort George Hotel in Belize City, the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), a government-owned utility company, announced that it had earned a $36.2 million profit in 2014, breaking the company’s record of $29.86 million announced for 2007, when the company was controlled by Fortis Inc. of Canada. BEL was initially privatized back in 1999, when the Government of Belize invited Fortis Inc. to invest and the company accepted a minority stake in BEL. The company’s profits in 2000 were reported at $10 million, and the company had consistently been growing its profits until it peaked in 2007, a year after Fortis acquired majority stake. However, the company recorded a loss of $10.8 million for 2008 but rebounded in 2009. Since then, profits had been on the decline, with the situation worsening in 2012, when BEL reported an excruciating loss of $16 million.

3 months for attempted murder!
The decision of Supreme Court Justice Dennis Hanomansingh not to impose a prison sentence on Wilbert Cuellar, who was convicted on December 12, 2011, along with Darwin Diaz, for the attempted murder of Josue Chay, triggered an appeal from Director of Public Prosecutions, Cheryl-Lynn Vidal. Justice Hanomansingh had expressed dissatisfaction with the jury’s verdict and decided to use his “inherent jurisdiction” to not send Cuellar to prison on December 19, 2011, the day the court had set for sentencing the two convicted men. Diaz, however, was not so fortunate. Hanomansingh sentenced him to serve 12 years in prison. DPP Vidal’s challenge to Justice Hanomansingh’s decision to not impose a prison sentence on Cuellar was heard in March 2014, and the Court of Appeal had ordered Hanomansingh to impose an appropriate sentence on Cuellar.

Husband flogged her with a machete then set her on fire, says woman
Maria Pech, 36, a housewife of Santa Clara, Corozal District, is lucky to be alive after her husband, Joel Alfredo Pech, 33, allegedly lashed her with a machete on her leg and body, and later set her afire. Pech told police that when she went back to the house after escaping from him, her husband doused her with kerosene and tried to set her on fire. She managed to put out the flames, but suffered burns to her arms. Neighbors called police and Pech’s husband was found in the village and arrested. The incident occurred at about 7:30 Monday evening at the couple’s home in Santa Clara.

Unions canvass members as GOB prepares to table PetroCaribe amendments
Amendments to the controversial PetroCaribe Loans Act are due to be tabled in Parliament next Friday, June 26, and constituent unions of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) have been asked to canvass the views of their membership on the proposed amendments before the executive of the Congress meets this Saturday, June 20, 2015. NTUCB president Marvin Mora told Amandala today that his union, the Belize Energy Workers Union (BEWU), has already begun to disseminate information to members and they will be canvassing the views of their general membership on the proposed amendments. On May 27, 2015, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dean Barrow met with NTUCB officials to discuss their concerns about the PetroCaribe Loans Act, as well as his proposals to amend the law at the upcoming House meeting.

McCaulay, West to Honduras?
Senior Football Federation of Belize (FFB) executive member, Marlon Kuylen, as well as Woodrow West, the well-known goalkeeper for the Belize national team, confirmed to local media today that both West and his Belize Jaguars teammate, star striker Deon McCaulay, are being courted by a professional club from Honduras. Media reports from that country suggest that officials from a team known as El Honduras Progreso, which partakes in the Liga Nacional de Honduras, were en route to Belize today to formally make contract offers to the two players. West told us today that he was initially contacted by a representative of the team two weeks ago, and that currently, no deal has been struck as yet with the agents who have come to negotiate with them; but if the conditions are favorable, he might end up playing with the team for its upcoming season which starts on June 29 in Honduras.

National Primary Schools Football Champions 2015
On Wednesday, June 17, the Primary School Football Nationals for females and males were held in Belize City. The female games were played at the MCC Grounds, while the male games were played at the Youth Hostel Field. Six male teams and six female teams participated, one male team and one female team representing each district as follows: Stann Creek – Independence Primary females and males. Cayo – Immaculate Concepcion RC females and Mount Carmel males. Belize – Belize Elementary females and San Pedro RC males. Orange Walk – Carmelita Gov’t females and La Immaculada RC males.

The best of the best playing
Playoff matches in the Harrison Parks Cricket Competition 2015, under the auspices of the Belize National Cricket Association, kicked off over the weekend. There were two games scheduled to be played. At Lords Bank, Western Eagles vs Sunrise was postponed due to inclement weather. At Crooked Tree, Police traveled there to play the home team, Brilliant. Brilliant took to bat first, and at the fall of the last wicket, scored 100 runs. Arturo Wade scored 27 runs for the home team, while Walton “Baby Hulk” Banner and Baronlee Clare took 4 and 3 wickets, respectively. Police went to bat, and at the fall of 2 wickets, scored 26 runs. Rain then started, and the game had to be stopped and postponed. This game will continue on Sunday, June 21, in Crooked Tree. The games scheduled for this Saturday are: Brilliant goes to Belmopan against Police in game two. Sunrise goes to Rancho Dolores to play Western Eagles. If weather permits, these are games for fans to come out and watch.

Editorial:Welcome to the party: 2003 and 2015
Belize’s democracy is not in a good place today. Belize’s democracy is becoming skewed because of the Petrocaribe moneys. In 2003, Belize’s democracy had entered a bad place, because loans from various regional and international banking institutions had made the democracy one-sided: the ruling People’s United Party (PUP) had bought out everyone in sight. “Welcome to the party” was the mantra that was blowing like a storm. The same thing is happening today, in 2015, only that it is now the United Democracy Party (UDP) who are the incumbents and have unlimited money to spend. The difference between winning and losing in Belize’s electoral politics is so huge that many individuals are afraid of participating as candidates. The amount of personal abuse one suffers after being part of a losing election is crushing. Belize is a small place; the abuse is, to repeat, personal. The abusers in the streets are relentless, because they are encouraged by the politicians who have been victorious and gained access to public funds and the apparatus of state power. Losing an election can become a traumatic experience at the personal level.

From the Publisher
It is clear that there was an organized attempt at the highest levels of the Government of Belize to downplay the incident at the Sarstoon River Island which took place between Thursday, May 28, and Friday morning, May 29, when armed elements of the Belize Coast Guard and armed elements of the Guatemalan navy confronted each other. At the time of an incident, exactly three months before this May 28/29 incident, when armed elements of the said Guatemalan Navy kidnapped 37 Belizeans who were under the banner of Belize’s Northern Territorial Volunteers (NTV) from the same location in the Sarstoon River mouth and forced them to go to the Guatemalan port of Livingston, the response of the various Cabinet Ministers of the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) had been inappropriate. One high-ranking leader of the Belize Government actually referred to the NTV mission as “misguided patriotism.” In the House of Representatives, the Toledo East area representative of the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP), it should be noted, took a similar line, when he criticized the NTV and similar groupings for behavior which he said would provoke violence from “those people” (the Guatemalans).

Major Lloyd Jones writes on Belize, Guyana and Petrocaribe
Dear Editor, Petrocaribe was born in June 2005 when 14 Caribbean nations signed on to the Energy Cooperation Agreement during the First Energy Meeting of Heads of State / Governments of the Caribbean on Petrocaribe. Since then its membership has expanded to 18, and today all but three members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are members of Petrocaribe. Belizeans have become familiar with Petrocaribe as a consequence of the Barrow administration’s insidious embrace and carefree spending of the Petrocaribe loan funds — and because of the single greatest post-independence challenge to our democracy: the Petrocaribe Loans Act of 2015. Petrocaribe, an initiative of the late President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, was designed, amongst other things, to counter American hegemony in the region. Comandante Chavez, a man with regional leadership aspirations, understood quite clearly the kind of political leadership that exists throughout the Caribbean. He understood that because of the failure of the said political leadership and their harmful developmental practices, he could buy influence within the Anglophone Caribbean. Enter Petrocaribe!

Message to the youth – begin reading good books!
Dear Editor, I wish to state my opinion on the educational system of Belize with regard to a recent letter posted in your newspapaer. The author, Alberto Vellos, spoke of the youth being lied to and he exhorted them to rise up. The young rising up sounds good, but I wonder how can we show we are not willing to have politicians and other unscrupulous persons step on our dignity? Many youth experience the harsh reality of doors closing in front of their faces and no one does anything. As Alberto pointed out, no one can do anything unless the youth themselves start out by taking action. It is at this juncture, that I want to point out that one factor contributing to the passivity of the youth is the failure of the educational system to shape the character of young people. When I finished high school in Benque Viejo in 2012, I had no idea how to start a discussion in class. I entered John Paul II Junior College, the new junior college at Benque Viejo, and I was disappointed to come to know through my personal experience, the ways in which the educational system is failing. I was able to notice this failure because the education offered at John Paul II Junior College is based on liberal arts and when one studies the liberal arts, one learns how to think critically.

Mexican tourism and commercial companies reach out
The Mexican Institute in Belize City was buzzing with activity this morning as a host of Mexican tourism and commercial companies participated in a tourism and commercial mission which was organized by the Embassy of Mexico to Belize and the Chetumal Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism (CANACO Chetumal). The objective of the event was to promote products and services that Southern Quintana Roo has to offer, as well as to promote regional integration between Belizean and Mexican companies. Amandala stopped by the event and spoke to Javier Aguilar, who is the Head of Economic and Tourism Affairs at the Mexican Embassy in Belize, and he elaborated on the purpose of the initiative. He said, “Today we’re having a tourism and commercial mission where companies come in from Chetumal, Bacalar and Mahahual. Most of these companies work in the tourism sector and the purpose of the mission is so that companies from southern Quintana Roo can come and offer their wide array of products and services to the Belizean public, and also that tour operators and entrepreneurs from Belize link with their Mexican counterparts from that area to share ideas and find ways to increase interaction and business opportunities between companies, but particularly in this region.”

Broadcasting and cycling’s Gerald Garbutt, 69, dies
Gerald Garbutt, 69, who worked at Radio Belize as a technician when it was the only radio station in the country as well as an arm of the government, and who was station manager for a fledgling KREM Radio in the early ‘90s, as well as a sports aficionado and president of the Belize Cycling Association, died at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) last night, Tuesday, from heart-related complications. Garbutt had been ailing for several years and reportedly suffered a stroke at his Racecourse Street home, where he resided with his wife, who rushed him to the KHMH. After the government dismantled its radio broadcast monopoly and KREM Radio became the first private radio station in 1989, Garbutt worked as manager of the station up to the early 1990s. In the complex world of radio broadcasting, Garbutt had the talent for getting the show on the road on time with his attention to details and his no-nonsense approach to his job. In an interview with LOVE FM, Glenn Tillett, who knew him well, described Garbutt as “a technician extraordinaire, and a pioneer when it comes to outside broadcasting.”

BTIA launches 30th anniversary celebration
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) is launching its 30th anniversary celebration at the Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel in Belize City on the occasion of its 2015 bi-annual general meeting. During the morning session, BTIA officials presented the organization’s achievements and future plans. Thursday afternoon was set aside for a presentation on “The Core Importance of Customer Service from Upper Management to Front Line Staff,” by Javier Gutierrez, and the evening closes off with a cocktail to mark the official launch of BTIA’s 30th anniversary celebration. This morning, Osmany Salas provided an overview of the organization’s accomplishments since its AGM of December 2014, when he was elected to serve as the new president of BTIA. Reporting on the 10 target areas outlined for action, Salas announced that the BTIA had recruited John Burgos to fill the vacant post of executive director.

Justice Abel hears challenge to cruise tourism head tax
Supreme Court Justice Courtney Abel today began to hear the legal challenge which was filed by businessman Michael Feinstein against the Government of Belize, and which opposes the manner in which the US$7 head tax is collected by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) from cruise passengers and distributed mostly to the private owners of the Fort Street Tourism Village (FSTV), which collects more than half the pie. While the court has yet to hear counsel for the FSTV, it did hear arguments today from attorneys for Feinstein and the Government of Belize. Speaking with the press this evening, Feinstein explained that the central claim he is making is that it is illegal for the government to collect and distribute the head tax in the manner that it has been doing. Feinstein is one of the original investors of the FSTV, but he later sold out to Royal Caribbean – which also wants to buy out Feinstein’s new project.

The Reporter

Caregivers learn about mental health and aging
The Mental Health Association focused on Friday on a real part of the human life as it relates to mental health – old age. The association enrolled its caregivers in a workshop to discuss different realities of mental health that affect mainly the elderly, and […]

Man who tried to burn wife alive denied bail
A man who tried to set his wife on fire was remanded this week to the Hattieville Prison on charges of attempted murder, harm and aggravated assault. Joel Pech, 34, who police say threw kerosene on his wife, Maria Pech, 36, and tried to light […]

Independence Primary boys win national football championships
The boys of Independence Primary School won the National Primary Schools Football Tournament, organized by the National Sports Council at the Raccoon Street field in Belize City on Wednesday, June 17. The Independence boys won the championship final 3-2 over the Cayo District champions, […]

Minister Saldivarâ€™s driver charged for hit and run in government vehicle
Minister of National Security John Saldivar’s driver, Orlando Castillo was arrested and charged with multiple counts of traffic offences related to causing the death of a villager in Camalote on Saturday night, while driving a government vehicle. According to Superintendent Howell Gillett, Officer Commanding […]

“Tommy Goff” kills boy days before his 12 birthday
Elias Jucub would have celebrated his 12th birthday this Friday, but instead, he was laid to rest this week after a Fer de lance (locally called Tommy Goff), one of the deadliest snakes in Belize, bit him in his native San Miguel Village on […]

Belize gets Taiwanese grant for coastal community project
Belize is receiving a grant from the Taiwanese government to fund a Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) climate change adaptation program. The program is designed to help prepare and protect communities in southern Belize from extreme weather and the effects of climate change. With […]

“Wally” Williams’ murder believed to be gang-related
Allison Oswald “Wally” Williams, 28, a contractor with Cisco Construction, had just left his house at 3832 Rivero Street Extension on Friday night to visit a lady friend on Partridge Street Extension, when his killer snuck up on him and shot him in what […]

Belize borrows $65 million for highway project
The Government of Belize, through approved financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the European Union (EU), has borrowed $65 million for a project to upgrade a section of the George Price Highway from Belmopan to Santa Elena. The IDB is providing financing […]

US suspends visas and passports due to glitch
The United States (US) State Department has said it has had to suspend the issuing of visas and passports at overseas diplomatic missions, due to a glitch in its Consular Consolidated Database, (CCD). These services will remain suspended indefinitely, it said. “We do not […]

Two charged, remanded for ex-fireman’s murder
Two men, Brandon Kerr, 30, and Lindberg Williams, 32, are remanded to jail on a joint charge of murder for the shooting and mutilation by burning of former Dangriga Fire Chief, Ralston Patnett, 51, on the Commerce Bight Road in Dangriga. Kerr, who lives […]

BELTRAIDE helping SMEâ€™s tap into Central American market
The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) and the Regional Center for the Promotion of Micro and Small Business (CENPROMYPE) held a workshop on Tuesday with stakeholders in Belize to discuss improving economic opportunities with the rest of Central America. Fernando Ocampo, consultant […]

Guatemalan Gunboat Tecum Uman has “sovereign immunity,” spokesman says
The Guatemalan military vessel, GC-651, which ran aground between Middle Caye and Long Caye in the Glover’s Reef System, has returned to Puerto Barrios, Guatemala. At around 11:30 am on Saturday, the 65-foot Cutlass gunboat, which had been firmly stuck on the crest of the reef, was pulled off by […]

Caribbean, EU more than doubles funding for the Caribbean
The European Union (EU) has more than doubled the amount of regional funding for the Caribbean. EU High Representative/Vice-President of the Commission, Federica Mogherini, signed a new regional funding program, valued at €346 million (US $396.1 million). The new program increased the available amount from […]

Greater opportunities for Belizeans through CAPS
Belizeans now have greater access to employment opportunities throughout the Caribbean, through a new system, developed by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The CARICOM Single Market Economy Application Processing System (CAPS), allows Belizeans, and members of all CARICOM member states, to upload their qualifications and contact […]

Belizeans claim they were terrorized by Guatemalan military
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reportedly fired off a request for a verification exercise to the Organization of American States, following alarming allegations of abuse made by five Belizeans detained last weekend. Michel Romero, Ray Martinez, Ashton McKenzie, Rafael Cus and Rutilio Cal claim they were detained by Guatemalan […]

Kriols need to embrace their culture, says Belize Kriol Council
The Merriam Webster dictionary defines culture as the beliefs, customs, arts, behaviors etc., of a particular society, group, place or time. The National Kriol Council, this week, called on Belize’s Kriol population to learn about and appreciate the contributions of the Kriol as a people […]

Editorial
Having a referendum in Belize and a referendum in Guatemala on the same day, to decide on whether to submit the Belize-Guatemala claim to the International Court of Justice, provides a clear way forward for solving this knotty century-old dispute. Guatemala has indicated that she wants to combine her referendum […]

San Pedro resort offers LGBT bash! But anti-gay activists protest!
Caribbean Villas Resort in San Pedro is offering a tourist package marketed internationally, which it has described as the biggest Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Trans-gender (LGBT) pride event in Belize’s history. The seven-day, seven-night “Temptation Island Pride Week” isn’t scheduled to be held at […]

CONCACAF investigates game rigging
For the first time in the history of football in Belize, three players have been accused of taking bribes to affect the outcome of a game, known The game in question is one which was played on April 29, 2015, between the BDF Football Club and Verdes. BDF lost the […]

Public officers get salary increase
The government announced on Tuesday that public officers and teachers will receive an eight percent salary increase, totalling some $38 million. The increase is part of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, signed by the Government of Belize and the Public Service Union (PSU), the Belize […]

NTUCB President speaks on union’s meeting with PM
National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) President, Marvin Mora, said after his meeting with the Prime Minister that he was surprised to learn that the government isn’t thinking about repaying the Petro Caribe loan and has not formulated any plan to do so. […]

The Belize Times

Barrow Too Soft On Guatemala! – GOB has allowed Guatemala to violate Belize’s territorial integrity and sovereignty
The Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) has chastised the Dean Barrow Government’s handling of Guatemala’s outright acts of aggression and antagonism. The recent brazen acts by our hostile neighbors in the west include the inhumane treatment of five Belizeans that include a UDP politician detained in Guatemala, the clandestine intrusion of two Guatemalan gun boats which crashed on our reef last week, the military invasion of Sarstoon Island in Southern Belize two weeks ago, the kidnapping of patriotic Belizeans who were observing Belize’s territorial sovereignty at the Gracias a Dios border marker in February, and the illegal incursion of armed Guatemalans who shot and killed Special Constable Danny Conorquie deep into Belize’s territory at the Caracol Mayan site in September last year. It appears that with each act, the level of faceyness and disrespect increases – and almost in chorus the defense of Belize’s sovereignty by the Foreign Minister Sedi Elrington and Prime Minister Dean Barrow weakens!!

They defend Faber’s Petrocaribe/Tacos Fest
“…my friends we were able in the Collet constituency to roll twenty-two loaded buses to Corozal Town today and we had a wonderful family day courtesy of Petrocaribe and our Prime Minister the Hon. Dean Barrow. We danced to Jorge Ernesto Babb and the Caribbean roots band. We bathe up inna di sea…you know the beautiful Corozal Bay sea weh look turquoise and milky and beautiful…we eat tacos and we eat pibil and we eat BBQ…we had a feast,” Patrick speaking at Darrel Bradley’s Convention, Sunday, June 7, 2015. The above statement by Patrick Faber has drawn the ire of the Belizean public, as it reveals how the UDP is mismanaging Petrocaribe loan monies for wasteful political gimmicks. While organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce have condemned the misuse, UDP officials have found it strangely and brazenly appropriate to speak in its favor. Financial Secretary Joseph Waight had no problem with Faber’s use of borrowed Petrocaribe money to buy tacos and drinks for UDP supporters. He told PLUS TV News that people will simply always have an opinion.

Moody’s warns about “Unsustainable Public Debt”
A June report issued by Moody’s Investors Service has warned investors that Belize could be staring at looming “unsustainable public debt” and possibly even the need for another debt restructuring in 2018. Moody’s forecast of Belize’s economy is that it will continue along its’ current state as the “economic fundamentals, including its economic strength, have not materially changed”, which means things will continue dull and dead for a majority of Belizeans. There will be no new ideas or major investment spending in any new industry by the Government, and their dependency on “tourism” and some expected recovery in agricultural sector. GOB’s dependency on oil has been hampered by decreasing oil exports. Moody’s also warned that the country could face unsustainable debt in the coming years for a number of converging reasons: the still outstanding BTL and BEL compensation liabilities, increased amortization payments to bondholders and the increased political pork and barrel spending by the Barrow administration as the general elections nears.

80 yr. old seriously injured after falling into drain access – CitCo denies assistance, says “No Money Noh deh”
80 year old Jose Hernandez says he is lucky to have survived a brutal accident he suffered last week Thursday, June 11th 2015. Hernandez broke his left elbow bone, and bruised and scraped his chest, leg and back when he fell into a drain access which had apparently been covered with an old piece of board. Hernandez was riding his bicycle along the Philip Goldson Highway (Northern Highway), just after the Pallotti bus stop, when he rode over the drain access thinking it was safe. Instead, the wood cover crumbled and he went almost face first on the concrete sidewalk. Two good Samaritans in the area helped him up, and he thought he was ok, until he felt a piercing pain on his left hand. He had to be rushed to the hospital.

Think About It
The majority of Belizeans have lost confidence in the government as it relates to the handling of any issue with Guatemala. We have never seen a government look so unsure and insecure in relation to simply standing up for the right of our people, our sovereignty, and territorial integrity. It is unheard of. A large part of the problem is the lack of information to Belizeans. It is becoming apparent that government is also lying and covering up facts rather than being straightforward. The loss of sovereignty over Sarstoon Island takes the cake. We cannot help but feel deeply disappointed with the government. The buck stops at the Prime Minister, and his deafening silence on the Sarstoon speaks volumes.

The ICJ – An Unnecessary Test
The chronic and antagonistic predicament that is the Guatemalan claim has once again reared its ugly head and assumes prominence in our existence. This sleeping dog has been awakened and now, as it has so often before, is growling and threatens to disrupt our “tranquil haven of democracy”. Belize has self-governed since 1964 and has been independent since 1981, but despite this, through it all, we have been taunted and haunted by a persistent belligerence from our neighbors to the west. There have been numerous incursions, violations of treaties, assaults on our security forces and even threats of invasion. The situation as it stands is that we are now being steered toward a hearing in court where the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will be given the authority to redefine our borders which are already, solidly demarcated. There are those who are trying to convince us that we face no risk of losing any ground but skepticism is running high. I grew up in a Belize where the threat of an invasion from Guatemala was never far from daily conversations. Whenever a plane flew too low overhead or if the British made any sudden troop movement, the town became abuzz with rumors. Tensions would climb and the entire country would go on alert and succumb to a state of nervousness. I distinctly recall once when almost half of Benque Viejo evacuated and frantically fled to the northernmost tip of Corozal; I believe that some might still be living there. Belizeans lived in perpetual fear of these barbarians at our gate and the words “Guatemala dih come” was enough to detract from any other issue and send the bravest among us scurrying for cover. In retrospect, it was damaging to our self esteem but such was the order of the day.

UDP SELL OUT EXPOSED!!!
Earlier this year the government of Belize instructed their highly paid attorney to “withdraw” the appeal against the Mayan Leaders Alliance (MLA) in the case where they (Mayan Leader Alliance) had won a Supreme Court decision and was awarded Customary Communal Land Rights for the lands (18 communities) they occupy in the southern part of Belize. The UDP Government of Belize told the Court that they are withdrawing their appeal because they recognized the Mayans are “squatters” and they have been squatting for over thirty (30) plus years therefore under the Laws of Belize they have earned the rights to the lands by occupation due to their initial squatting. All Belizeans know that squatting is illegal in Belize, so in essence the UDP government has classified the Mayan in Southern Belize as criminals, and then allow them to maintain possession of the lands. Of course many will argue that if the UDP government had proceeded with the appeal they would have lost. So by giving a temporary pass to the Mayan people the UDP government saved face and appeared as though they did something good. But let us look at what all the UDP Government did leading up to their conceding. In the Courts they initially challenged the Mayan Leaders Alliance’s claim vehemently and the UDP in nepotistic style brought in Lois Young Barrow and Denys Barrow (Prime Minister’s ex-wife and brother) as private attorneys to defend the case even though the Solicitor General office is staffed by over 20 plus attorneys and legal minds, who are paid with tax dollars to represent the Government. The UDP government lost the case both at the Supreme Court and Appeals Court level and were on their way to the Caribbean Court of Justice when the UDP government changed their tune and dropped the appeal.

Lady Jaguars & Jaguars are volleyball champs
The Lady Jaguars swept the Moen Stars in the finals last Thursday and Saturday to win the 2015 Belize District Volleyball Association’s women’s championship. In Game 2 on Saturday night, the Moen Stars pulled out stops in a vain attempt to take the series to a Game 3. The Stars won the 1st set: 25-21 and tied the game 2-2 by winning the 4th set: 25-17. The Lady Jaguars won the 2nd and 3rd sets: 25-21 and 25-23. The extra 5th set went 15-11 in favour of the Jaguars. On Thursday night, the Lady Jaguars had won the 2nd, 3rd and 4th sets: 25-15, 25-21 and 25-22; as Zaire Garbutt, Shantell Arnold, Tichelle Solis, Maurissa Williams and Kay-de Vaughn scored points at the net on plays set by Tanesha Encalada and libero Tisha Solis after Moen Stars had won the 1st set: 25-18; as Sherika Burton, Kelsey Balderamos, Nelisa Ramirez, Jahshema Saunders and Kevanna Sebastian hammered kills on balls set by Krystal Bevans.

BES girls & San Pedro RC boys advance to football champs
The Belize Elementary School girls and the San Pedro RC School boys will represent the Belize District at the National Primary School Football Championships at the MCC on Wednesday, June 17 after winning the Belize district primary schools football championships held last Tuesday, June 9. In the girls’ final, the BES girls won 2-1 over San Pedro RC girls in penalty kicks, in which BES’ Alyanna Musa and Riana Chebat scored, while only Erica Pop scored for Isla Bonita. In the boys’ finals, the San Pedro RC boys won 2-1 over Hattieville Government 2-1; with goals scored by Dixon Paguada equalizing 1-1 after Enoch Rhaburn had scored for Hattieville, and Wilson Cruz scored the 2nd winning goal.

Belize defeats Dominican Republic 3-0
Belize football fans across the country celebrated the Belize Jaguars’ historic 3-0 win over the Dominican Republic at the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) Stadium in Belmopan on Sunday, June 14; which qualified the Jaguars for the first time ever to the 3rd elimination round for the 2018 World Cup Russia. The Belize Jaguars now advance to challenge one of the other 12 winners in a home and away series; their opponents could be Jamaica, Haiti, Antigua, Barbados, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Grenada, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Canada, Curacao or Guatemala. The Jaguars won’t know their opponent until FIFA holds a draw in St. Petersburg on July 25; that draw will also determine the format of the 4th round in which the 6 winners of the 3rd round will meet the top 6 in CONCACAF: Costa Rica, Mexico, the United States, Honduras, Panama and Trinidad & Tobago. Harrison “Kafu” Roches set the tone of Sunday’s game when he headed in the 1st goal in the 17th minute; and Elroy “Bib” Kuylen connected to a cross from Danny Jimenez with a left foot shot in the 37th minute that rocketed into the back of the net for a 2-0 lead at the half.

GOB’s Illegal Borrowing & Spending
On April 7, 2015, Ministry of Finance officials discovered that approximately $500,000 had gone missing from the Treasury Department in Belize City. The announcement was made on Thursday, April 16, by no less than the Prime Minister, Hon. Dean Barrow, who was briefed earlier that week on the case of the missing monies by Financial Secretary Joseph Waight. On April 24th 2015, the police escorted Treasury Department second class clerk David Enriquez, 28, to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court to be arraigned on charges in connection with the missing money from the Government Treasury. He was charged with 3 counts of theft of “unlawfully diverting funds”. Since 2012, Prime Minister Barrow and his Ministers have (as per the Finance and Reform (Audit) Act) unlawfully borrowed over $260 million and spent over $76 million in loan monies. They haven’t faced any penalties. Instead, they get to write a law that says their crime is no longer a crime.

Woman in the House – SERIOUS BUSINESS
There is kriol saying: “God noh like ugly.” When I heard the news that a Guatemalan Navy gunboat had run aground at Glover’s Reef, one of Belize’s three atolls, I definitely did not feel any sympathy for Guatemala or for those naval officers who were aboard the vessel when it came to a crashing halt and sat atop our reef. My feeling is that most Belizeans would agree that we can have very little sympathy for the Guatemalan Navy – not after their terrible aggression and hostility towards our Belizean sisters and brothers of the last few months. In 1798 our Reef played an important role in our history. In 2015 our Reef is a deterrent to invaders or unfriendly forces of many kinds. Earlier this year members of our Territorial Volunteers, as they call themselves, were kidnapped and forced to go to Livingston, Guatemala due to the most unfriendly, illegal, and uncalled-for belligerence of the Guatemalan Navy in our Southern waters. Similarly the most recent incident of Guatemalan sabre-rattling and blatant aggression towards the Belizean Coast Guard has left Belizeans hurt and angry. After all, at all times during the reported stand-off between members of our Coast Guard and the Guatemalan Navy our officers were on Belizean soil and in Belizean territorial waters. Incredibly, it is reported that the Prime Minister ordered our Coast Guard officers to retreat and leave the Sarstoon Island. They had very bravely stood their ground, as they knew exactly where they were, and they knew precisely our land and maritime boundaries.

Anthony Sabal: A Man on a Mission
Anthony Sabal, the new PUP standard bearer for Dangriga, Hope Creek and Sarawee continued his ground campaign to fight against a vindictive and oppressive UDP government for the upcoming bi-election. In the early afternoon he met with Party Leader Francis Fonseca and the other members of the Southern Caucus team Hon. Mike Espat, Hon Rodwell Ferguson and Hon. Oscar Requena. Today Sabal did some house to house in Sarawee. He also met with some key campaigners in Hope Creek in preparation for a community meeting. In Dangriga he gave some media interviews outside the Party Hall before returning to the streets to campaign. Anthony Sabal is a community minded man on a mission bringing dignity and integrity to the voters of this southern division. His message is clear. The country is in deep trouble with rampant corruption, high cost of living, and painful joblessness. He tells all the residents he meets not to be fooled by Barrow and the UDP who has neglected Dangriga for eight years.

Corozal man accused of attempting to set wife on fire
Corozal Police have arrested and criminally charged 34 year old Joel Pech, a resident of Santa Clara Village, after his wife reported that he tried to set her on fire. The wife, 36 year old Maria Pech, told the Police that while she was at home, in her back yard, her husband arrived home and assaulted her with a machete. She reported that he dragged her by her hair and locked her inside the kitchen where he allegedly threw kerosene on her and tried to set her on fire. She told the Police that she managed to wash off some of the kerosene and escape her husband’s abuse. The husband was detained by the Police following the report, and later charged for attempted murder.

PUP Expresses Grave Concern To Grounding Of Guatemalan Naval Vessel At Glovers Reef
The People’s United Party hereby expresses grave concern in relation to the grounding of a Guatemalan naval vessel at Glovers Reef. The position of that grounding, near Middle Caye, Glovers Reef is 30 nautical miles due ESE of Dangriga and about 57 nautical miles SE of Belize City. This raises the question about how it is that a Guatemalan naval vessel could enter and traverse Belize’s territorial waters unannounced and undetected by Belize’s national security apparatus. Equally troubling to the People’s United Party is the description of events as advanced by the CEO in the Ministry of National Security. The Ministry of National Security has informed the nation that the Guatemalan naval vessel was travelling to La Isla Mujeres, Mexico, when it encountered mechanical difficulties and consequently went aground. The Ministry of National Security’s description of events has done nothing to allay the fears of Belizeans that the Guatemalan naval vessel unlawfully entered our territorial waters prior to the mechanical failure occurring.

Belize Credit Union League convenes 59th Annual General Meeting
The Belize Credit Union League held its 59th Annual General Meeting on Saturday, 13 June 2015 at the Black Orchid Resort in Burrel Boom with over 80 delegates representing affiliated credit unions, and special invited guests. Credit unions in attendance were Holy Redeemer, St. Francis Xavier, St. John’s, Blue Creek, Toledo Teachers’, Saint Martin’s, Civil Service, and La Inmaculada Credit Unions. The League is the apex organization of most credit unions in Belize, and was established on 15 June 1956. In his address, President of the League, Mr. Clement Usher said of the Belize Movement: “We must unite as one credit union movement and speak with one voice…..It has been far too long since we have spoken with one voice!” This was in reference to how credit unions in Belize should deal with challenges, which are already being faced by credit unions in the region. He congratulated credit unions for another year of success, as most reported increases in membership, loans, savings, assets, and reserves. Dividends on members’ shares and savings ranged from 2% to 8% while interest rebate ranged from 5% to 20%.

Breaking Belize News

NTUCB: GOB “unconcerned” about Petrocaribe repayment, investment
According to Prime Minister Dean Barrow, the Government of Belize “isn’t worrying about how the Petrocaribe loan will be repaid.” This is what he told members of the executive of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) in a recent meeting, according to its president Marvin Mora, who spoke […]

Butane prices cut by $3
Belizeans have so far enjoyed a reduction of more than a third in prices of liquid petroleum gas (LPG), commonly known as butane, since September of 2014 due to falling world oil prices. On Thursday the Supplies Control Unit in the Ministry of Trade issued notice that effective immediately there […]

World Bank supports Belmopan City Council
Officials from the World Bank and Social Investment Fund met with some Councilors, Managers and the Acting Mayor Jacklyn Burns this week at the Belmopan City Council. The purpose of the meeting was to evaluate infrastructural works that have been completed within the municipality and works that are to be […]

Trio charged for Drug Trafficking in Corozal
A search done by Corozal police’s Quick Response Team at around 7:00 this morning, led to the finding of 68 grams of Cannabis at the residence of Angelita Logan. Reports are that the drugs were in a transparent bag on the bowl of the sewerage when police searched the #14 […]

BEL hosts AGM
The Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday at the Radisson Fort George Hotel in Belize City to report to shareholders about the company’s achievements and dividend payments for the year 2014. The biggest revelation to shareholders was net earnings of $36.2 million, resulting in $0.15 […]

Severe Flooding in Toledo Villages
Belize Media Group has received confirmation from NEMO Toledo Branch, that severe flooding is affecting several villages in southern Belize. Kenton Parham, Head of NEMO Toledo told us that the rural Toledo Villages of Santa Elena, Corazon, Blue Creek, Mafredi and San Jose have all made reports of flooding. In […]

Marijuana Bust at Mile 31
Belize is not part of the ‘Legalize it!’ forum for marijuana consumption in the Caribbean, and therefore four persons accosted by the police on Thursday afternoon are facing charges of drug trafficking after being caught with 67 kilograms of marijuana. Thirty-year old Calvin Augustus Lauriano, along with three companions, was […]

Belize Black-Listed by the European Union as a Tax Haven
From the sale of Blackadore Caye to actor, Leonardo Di Caprio, to Former’s top ten places to visit in 2015, Belize has certainly received its fair share of positive international publicity. Today, however, our nation has been placed in the spotlight by the European Union, who has listed Belize among […]

Blogs

My Week on Ambergris Caye, Belize – Izzy’s Shakes, A New Wine Bar and a Bit More
And the San Pedro Lobster Festival sign going up by Izzy’s Smoothies – this is the north most corner of Middle Street. Where I stopped later in the week for a delicious green juice…kale, ginger, pineapple, kiwi and about 5 other things. Izzy’s even got PEACHES! While waiting for my blend, I met a couple building a home and a business up north…just north of Palapa Bar on the road. A wine bar and event space called Stella’s Smile. Driving by you can see the large palapa going up…

Belize Photography Safari Tour 2015
Top up your travellers memory bank with awe-inspiring memoirs by capturing professionally produced images on a photography-themed adventure vacation led by an internationally acclaimed London based photographer, James Miller. Belize is truly a landscape, wildlife, and portrait photographer’s paradise, and for good reason. With a myriad of exceptional tropical ecospheres that are only matched by the uniquely diverse cultures that habitat them in this tiny new British colonial nation, you may find your biggest problem is where to point your camera. Opportunities for photography abound and there’s no better reason to hone your skills than with a professional photographer who will offer instruction in everything from camera settings to composition and will also lead special photo excursions to open your vision and expand your skills.

A stretch of Ambergris shore is no longer a sore sight for our eyes
Still basking in the glow of a huge effort to clear the roadside of trash just north of the Sir Barry Bridge, only one week later the neighborhood tackled an especially unsightly spot. About 20 neighbors met at Coco Loco’s Beach Bar Friday afternoon and, armed with bags and gloves, marched north on the trash. Their objective was the area near the barge landing. Once a deep water pool, separated from the sea only by a rock wall, the area has filled in with putrid sargassum and plastic. Compounding the sea-borne trash, cyclists and walkers frequently tend to dump their drink bottles and snack bags along the trail that runs through the field. In a little over an hour’s time, the crew made huge inroads into the trash, accumulating an impressive pile of stuffed garbage bags.

International Sources

Into the light: how lidar is replacing radar as the archaeologist’s map tool of choice
A technology using rapid pulses of light is helping archaeologists to chart ancient settlements hidden beneath dense forest canopies. Colorado State University archaeologist Chris Fisher found out about lidar in 2009. He was surveying the ruins of Angamuco in west-central Mexico the traditional way, with a line of grad students and assistants walking carefully while looking at the ground for bits of ceramics, the remains of an old foundation or even a tomb. He had expected to find a settlement, but instead he happened upon a major city of the Purepecha empire, rivals of the Aztecs in the centuries immediately preceding the Spanish conquest of Mexico in 1519. The site covered 13 sq km; traditional surveying would have taken years, so he turned to a technology that uses pulses of light to penetrate the forest and ground cover to reveal what lay beneath. “In two seasons we had surveyed only two square kilometres,” Fisher said. But with this new technology – lidar – “we mapped the entire city in 45 minutes.” Using hardware based on the ground or on an aeroplane, Lidar can produce images in three dimensions. In the future, drones will probably do most of the surveys. Besides Mexico, lidar has been used to penetrate forest canopy in many countries – among them Belize, Honduras, Guatemala and Cambodia – where the vegetation had been too dense or too troublesome to allow for traditional methods.

4th Civil Affairs Group Conducts Site Survey
Marines with 4th Civil Affairs Group, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, conducted a site survey of the Belizean History Museum June 17, during exercise Tradewinds 2015. The purpose of the survey was to familiarize the CAG Marines with Belizean culture and history, so they could better understand how to interact with their partner nation populace. Though they may be requested to assist the local populace in a time of evacuation to protect items of cultural significance, this is not their main mission. “Civil affairs are forces that are specially trained to look at a problem from the perspective of the civilian populace,” said Maj. Jason Wetherington, a team leader with 4th CAG, FHG, MARFORRES. “Civil affairs trained Marines are the advisors to a commander on how their operation may affect the civilian populace. We are the only ones in the military that are specifically trained to focus on the civilian populace.”

Caribbean Share of Global Trade Has Declined According to New World Bank Report
Caribbean share of global trade has declined from three per cent in the 1970’s to a quarter per cent in 2012, according to a new World Bank report. But the report also notes that the rapidly changing environment for Caribbean exports presents both new opportunities and challenges for economies highly dependent on external markets. The report, ‘Trade matters: New opportunities for the Caribbean’, notes that while trade plays an important role in job creation, exporting also makes employment more vulnerable to external shocks. “Entrepreneurs are already seeing improvements in the business climate. Continued efforts to improve trade facilitation and step up investments in research and innovation, as well as quality education, will help improve skills and generate well-paid jobs in the Caribbean,” said Jorge Familiar, World Bank vice-president for Latin America and the Caribbean. The report also indicates that the region’s trade performance is limited by lack of diversity and limited innovation. The number of patent applications in the Caribbean has been lower than in other regions of the world.

Videos

Belizean Island Adventure!, 3min. Have you ever heard of Belize? Join me while I do a bunch of stuff during my vacation there! Julian Rivero was in the blue shirt doing most of the flips check out his channel for more.

Cayo Espanto Belize 3 days in 3 minutes, 3min. Miscellaneous clips that didn't make it to my helicopter, sea trek, snuba, or snorkel videos. We loved Villa Solana at Espanto!

First Belize Video, 6min.

Crank barge, Belize, 2min.

TALK AH DI TOWN (CERRO TRUSTEE), 15min. from PGTV News Network

EXCLUSIVE INT. WITH ASHTON from PGTV News Network, 25min.

Alice Diving in Belize, 4min. My brother-in-law shot this video of my mom in 1080p on a GoPro HERO4 Black.

keel billed toucan belize, 1.5min.

Green Hills Butterfly Ranch, Belize, 1min. Different butterfly species at the Green Hills Butterfly Ranch in the Mountain Pine Ridge area of Belize. Most interesting are the pictures of butterflies mating.

Scuba Diving in Belize 2015, 6min. Diving with sharks, turtles and more in San Pedro, Lighthouse Reef and Placencia. Special thanks to Belize Pro Dive in San Pedro.

BUILD FOR BELIZE 2015 "THE IMPACT", 2min. 25 SPERRO volunteers built more than a house in 5 days. A family was re-built, a community was strengthened, and relationships were constructed. This is the impact of their dedication.

SNORKELING IN BELIZE & HALF MOON CAY part 1, 6min.

jaguar in belize, 2min.

June 19, 2015

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Holiday Hotel celebrates 50 Years of Tourism Service to Belize
June 15th marked the 50th anniversary of The Holiday Hotel. Established in 1965, the hotel has since contributed its fair share in service to Ambergris Caye, Belize’s Tourism Industry and travelers visiting from across the globe. The story starts off in 1965, with Celi Nunez McCorkle. Before the installation of electricity, running water, streets, airstrips, or motorized boats; back when La Isla Bonita boasted only sandy roads and sailboat transportations to and from the island, Celi had a dream. She envisioned taking her hometown a step further, in creating an industry for the island by providing a resting place for these travelers that visited by boat. She believed in the beauty of Ambergris Caye and wanted to share it with the world. It was with that vision that the Holiday Hotel was born. What started off as a humble five room establishment with modest amenities, is now a 16 room hotel providing a tranquil, intimate beachside getaway to wanderers from around the world.

SPHS graduate injured in traffic accident
Gabriel Zetina a San Pedro High School (SPHS) 2015 graduate suffered major injuries in a traffic accident on Friday, June 12th. The incident occurred near Caribeña Fuel Station just south of Town core. Zetina suffered two critical fractures on his left leg and several other fractures to his lower foot and ankle. Due to this incident, the senior student was unable to attend his graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 15th. Zetina was taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where he is waiting on news if further surgeries will be needed to save his leg. According to Zetina, on Friday, he was driving a golf cart accompanied by other friends when a blue taxi van coming in the opposite direction, allegedly on the wrong side of the road, almost ran into them. “I was driving on my right, but the other vehicle was on the wrong side of the road coming straight to me. I swerved to the left to try and avoid a collision, and then I did a hard right to avoid running off the road, but when I did that, the golf cart flipped and fell on my left leg,” explained Zetina via a phone interview.

Chef Christy Bono Vacations in San Pedro
Christy Bono, a chef and restaurant owner from Southern California, USA is on vacation on Ambergris Caye. Her father was the late singer Sonny Bono, an American recording artist and producer who partnered with his second wife Cher as the popular duo Sonny & Cher. Christy became well known via her cooking and business skills. She has owned and run several upscale restaurants in Los Angeles and Long Beach over the past 25 years. She inherited the love for cooking from her father who owned a restaurant in West Hollywood. On Tuesday evening, June 16th, The San Pedro Sun had the honor of meeting Bono at Wine de Vine’s Tuesday wine tasting event. “I am truly happy to be in Belize and in San Pedro, the Belizean people are remarkably nice; I am really impressed with their kindness,” said Bono. When asked about her dining experience on Ambergris Caye, Christy definitely agreed Belizean food is good, “I have been savoring the local gastronomy and to be honest, I have no complaints. The local cuisine in San Pedro has really satisfied my taste buds. From the rice and beans to the tacos, fry jacks, pupusas etc. Every time I visit a new country I like to experience their culture, their traditional food.” However, she had hoped to find a good Italian restaurant in town.

Guatemalan Navy Vessel runs into Glover’s Reef Atoll
The Department of Environment (DOE) and Belize Fisheries Department are currently conducting an environmental damage assessment at Glover’s Reef Atoll where a Guatemalan Navy Ship ran aground into the reef. The incident occurred sometime in the late hour of Wednesday, June 10th, but a report was not made until on Thursday, June 11th. Apparently, the 65-foot vessel, bearing the marking GC-651 Tecum Uman, and enroute Isla Mujeres, Mexico, experienced mechanical problems and drifted into the crest of the reef. The grounding occurred about 500 meters north of Middle Caye. The vessel was removed on Saturday, June 13th.

The 2015 International Costa Maya Festival® is set to go!: Presenting Miss Costa Rica!
The San Pedro Sun is delighted to announce that the preparations for this year’s International Costa Maya Festival® are well underway. Naturally, readers will be delighted to know that the Reina de la Costa Maya delegates from all eight countries have already confirmed their attendance. The pageant is scheduled to take place on Thursday August 6th, the first night of the festival. But what about the remaining two nights? Well, fear not, the committee has been working feverishly behind the scenes to ensure they bring you music, entertainment and culture once again! After the pageant kicks off the festival with beauty and color, the Friday night festivities will include a lot of culture and some amazing musical performances. Mexican Dance Troupe Alma Caribeña will grace us with their presence, and joining them will be the Belize Dance Company, an international DJ (to be announced at a later date) and of course, the mighty GILHARRY 7 Band!!

Misc Belizean Sources

Dia De San Pedro 2015
Schedule of Events Saturday, June 20th: La Bajada Service at the RC Church, 4am. Novena, 5am. And an exhibition of fishing, the festival and San Pedro at the Lobsterfestival in Central Park. Each night, The Novena will take place at the Roman Catholic Church at 6pm. Friday, June 26th There will be a karaoke competition and dance performance with an after party in the Old Football field. Saturday Night festivities continue in the Sporting Area with dancers, a marimba performance by the Benque Youth Academy and more. Sunday June 28th. There is a Fishing Rodeo.

PRESS RELEASE: LPG Price Change
Please note the new LPG prices your respective area.

First Ever Invest in Belize Seminar Held in the Republic of China (Taiwan)
The Ambassador of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) H.E. Cherie Nisbet hosted the 2015 Invest in Belize: Investment Seminar at the Palais de Chine Hotel in Taipei, Taiwan, on June 15, 2015. The event was the first of its kind and was held with the aim of attracting Taiwanese investment to Belize. A small delegation from Belize was invited by the Embassy of Belize to attend: Mr. Lincoln Blake, Director of the Policy and Investment Unit of the Ministry of Trade; Mr. Brian Lin, Manager of BelizeINVEST, BELTRAIDE; and Mr. Hero Balani, Investment Associate of BELTRAIDE. The seminar was attended by approximately 40 potential Taiwanese investors. The presentation focused on the areas of key interest for Belize: Tourism and Leisure, Medical Tourism, Offshore Outsourcing, Agri-Business and Agro-Processing, Aquaculture and Mariculture, Renewable Energy, and Investment in the Free Zone.

Power interruption 6:00am to 6:05am, Friday, June 19: entire Stann Creek and Toledo Districts
BEL to change transformer tap at La Democracia Substation.

Wildfire Gallery Art Exhibit
There's a new art gallery in town: Wildfire. They are launching a new art exhibit tomorrow night, the 19th, from 5pm to 8pm. Nihanda Higinio will be unveiling her mixed media collection entitled 'The Universal Language of Art.'

Sacred Heart College 2015 Graduation
Congratulations to all the SHC graduates! They had a great graduation, and Kenny Lamb was there to capture the moment.

Tapir
Rice University students capture wildlife of Las Cuevas Research Station in the Chiquibul through field cameras: Tapir

Puma
University students capture wildlife of Las Cuevas Research Station in the Chiquibul through field cameras: Puma

Ocelot
Rice University students capture wildlife of Las Cuevas Research Station in the Chiquibul through field cameras: Ocelot

Louisiana Army National Guard supports Exercise Tradewinds in Belize
The Louisiana Army National Guard (LANG) 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is in Belize in support of Phase II of exercise Tradewinds 2015, lending their training knowledge to all participating nations. “We’re here to support our partner nations across various military branches in any medical case they require,” said Capt. Rachel Ward, a nurse from Louisiana Medical Command (MEDCOM), assigned to LANG for the exercise. The Pineville, Louisiana, native added, “We have a water purification section taking well water and ensuring it’s purified then taking it to the troops. And a food service section helping to prepare and serve meals to all of our partners here in theater.” Operating from four sites, the guardsmen have two medics in the jungle, where the U.S. Marines are working jointly with special forces from participating countries; two medics who are working an exercise element along a river, and two medics assigned to weapons proficiency training, embedded with the British Army Training Support Unit, Belize. This is in addition to three medics, a nurse and a physician’s assistant at Price Barracks, the exercise headquarters on the outskirts of Belize City.

BEL Holds Annual General Meeting of Shareholders - Dividend Payments Increase by 87.5%
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) is holding its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders this evening to report to its Shareholders, the Company’s achievements and dividend payments for the year ending December 31, 2014. Shareholders will receive news of net earnings of $36.2 million. As a result, BEL’s Board of Directors has approved dividend payments of $0.15 per share for 2014 – an 87.5% increase compared to 2013. BEL’s Mission “To provide reliable electricity at the lowest sustainable cost, stimulate national development and improve the quality of life in Belize” is being proclaimed as the driving force behind the Company’s business plan, initiatives and decisions. Lowering electricity rates for the fifth consecutive time since 2013 is being highlighted as one of BEL’s major accomplishments under the new leadership. In addition to the recent decision to reduce the Mean Electricity Rate (MER) to $0.35 cents per kWh, the Company is also reporting a 51% reduction in the frequency of power interruptions since 2010.

Channel 7

Guatemalan Ambassador Rejects Narrative of Five Belizeans Held In Santa Cruz
On Monday, a new Guatemalan Ambassador presented his credentials to Governor General, Sir Colville Young in Belmopan. He is Manuel Roldan Barillas – a senior diplomat with 26 years in the Guatemalan Foreign service. He has served as Ambassador in Canada and Brazil but calls Belize his most important posting so far. And he enters at an interesting time – right when a public case is being made in Belize that the Guatemalan military is becoming increasingly aggressive against Belizeans – both out armed forces and our civilians. Today Roldan deflected the suggestion that his country is becoming increasingly hostile towards Belizeans. We started by asking him about the detention of five Belizeans over the weekend in Santa Cruz, Guatemala. H.E. Manuel Roldan Barillas - New Guatemalan Ambassador to Belize "if you were to read the note that your government sent to the OAS office, it states that we had a very active role in trying to sort things out and that's exactly what happened. I haven't got the official information yet, the OAS hasn’t pronounced itself yet as to what was requested of it. It's something that happens, human relations are not easy sometimes and they have a version and we have a version - we have to try to conciliate those. We're happy to see that everything was taken care of rapidly, that they are back in Belize and let's see how it goes from there."

Lots at Stake In Stake Bank Case
For months now, developer Mike Feinstein has been in court against the owners of the Fort Street Tourism Village. He's being trying to broach a resolution with village owners Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and Diamonds International which would see his Stakebank Cruise port move forward without any lawsuits. All attempts have failed, and so now, both sides have commenced litigation before Justice Courtney Abel. As viewers may know already, Feinstein is challenging the legality of the head tax that is collected from each cruise tourist, which is then shared between the owners of FSTV, and BTB on behalf of the Government of Belize. His issue is that all tax revenues must be paid into the Government's Consolidated Revenue Fund, but in this case, most of it goes to the Tourism Village. FSTV has countersued saying that if this head tax is indeed illegal, then both the Government and Mike Feinstein, who originally helped to craft this agreement, should pay them an award of damages. The Government's position is that this "head tax" is not really a tax; it's more of a fee that is charged to each cruise passenger entering Belize.

Felix Turns Himself Into Police
Shooting victim Mark Gentle died in the first week of June – and since then police have been waiting to bring murder charges against Maurice Felix – but he’s been on the run from police. His brother was charged for Gentle’s murder on June 9th – and this morning after nine days on the run, 30 year old Maurice turned himself in. His charge of attempted murder was upgraded to murder when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser. Maurice is also charged with the attempted murder of Mark Gentle’s mother, Pamela Cumberbatch. So Maurice now joins Emory on remand – and they are to return to court on September 8. Last year, the brothers came off eight years on remand for a murder after three abortive trials for the murder of Mitchum Herredia.

ADU Busts The Heroin House In Ranchito
Today, four persons who were caught with heroin on Tuesday afternoon appeared in the Corozal Magistrate’s Court. They are 51 year old Fermin Velasquez, 25 year old Eber Rivera, 38 year old mother of two Alba Velasquez and the odd man out, Chinese hotel owner Kua Hsiung Liao known as Peter. They were all charged for trafficking 16.5 pounds of heroin and remanded to prison until September third. Now, 16.5 pounds is a lot with a street value of 1.4 million US dollars – according to figures posted on the internet. So how were they caught? Well it was the anti-drug unit –which moved on a house in Ranchito, Corozal on Tuesday at 4:30 pm. The police noticed that the Chinese businessman had been frequenting the house – which didn’t fit, because it was quite run down. That caused police to suspect something, and when they raided the building they found Velasquez, Rivera and Peter in a backroom with 7 parcels of heroin looking very surprised. They were downstairs while Alba Velasquez and her two under aged children were upstairs.

Man Remanded After Burning Up Wife
34 year old Joel Pech of Santa Clara Village in the Corozal District appeared in Magistrate’s Court today after he tried to burn up his wife on Monday night. He was charged for attempted murder harm and aggravated assault. He was remanded and more charges are expected to be brought. His 36 year old wife Maria told police that she was cleaning some aluminium to sell when Pech woke up and started cursing her out. He then lashed her with a machete and when she ran, he stoned the machete at her, but it missed. She then caught her, drafed her by the hair and locked her up in the kitchen where he dowsed her with kerosene and tried to light her on fire, but she managed to wash off some of the accelerant. He still managed to light only her forearm but she doused it in water.

Krismar Will spend At Least Eight
Krismar Espinosa was today sentenced to 16 year for the manslaughter of 24 year old Rachel Chun in 2007. He’s been on remand since then, and based on time served, he will serve 8 more years for the killing. He was convicted earlier this month after a jury of 12 was unable to reach a unanimous verdict of guilty for murder - so they found him guilty of manslaughter. In September of 2007, Chun was believed to have been taken into an abandoned building in Santa Familia, sexually assaulted and then bludgeoned with a cement block. She was found days later, half naked and decomposing. She was last seen with Esipnoza in front of her home. The 26 year old Espinoza still has another murder trial pending. He was accused of killing his cell mate Keon Swasey on Christmas Eve of 2009. He had gotten off, but the Court of Appeal ruled in 2014 that he must face a new trial for the same charge.

Capital Cops Got A 357 Magnum
A gun seizure in Belmopan: police found a Magnum pistol and ammunition in the Maya Mopan area yesterday. Yesterday morning at around 11:45 Belmopan Police, Special Branch and K-9 unit searched a vacant lot on Salvapan Street Extension in the Maya Mopan area. They found a silver six shooter .357 Magnum Calibre Ruger Brand Pistol. About 200 feet away 6 live .38 rounds of ammunition along with 6 live 9mm rounds of ammunition were found wrapped in a grey under shirt in some bushes. No one was in the area at the time of the search so all items were deposited as found property.

All Along The Watchtower
Today a new fire observation tower was inaugurated at the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area. This management area is known as the largest private protected area and the best managed in Belize. That status is being maintained with the construction of a new fire observation tower at the management area. While its main purpose is to allow rangers to more effectively detect and control fires in the area –the Executive Director of Program for Belize says it’s serves as more than just a fire watch tower. We traveled to the management area today to find out more. Courtney Weatherburne Reporting… This single column 40 foot cement structure was erected in 1990 and served as the fire tower at the East Gate post of the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management area. But it has over served its purpose and now it has been replaced with a larger, sturdier more modern fire observation tower. The new stainless steel tower has a 20 foot wide base and stands 60 feet high. This folding stick chair - mouldy and old – rests at the top of the tower overlooking the wide-open landscape of lush shrubs and pine Savannah. It’s a breath taking view in the somber light of an overcast morning

UDP Pawpa Mena Says People Power Not Petrocaribe Will Make Difference In Dangriga
Next week Monday is nomination day for the Dangriga Constituency when Anthony Sabal will be formally entered in the by-election as the PUP’s candidate. Frank “Pawpa” Mena will be on the other side of the political divide as the UDP candidate. He has been UDP’s standard bearer for a year longer, and so, it is perceived that he has an edge over Sabal, who was named as the Opposition’s replacement for Ivan Ramos one month ago. Last night, Mena was in Belize City, and we asked him about the sudden opportunity he’s being presented with to possibly be elected to the House of Representatives: Frank “Pawpa” Mena – UDP Standard Bearer, Dangriga "I have a committee who's working very diligently and getting things together. So the nomination is on Monday and we're already doing the ground work, the invitations - telling everybody to come out. We start our march to nomination from in front of Ms. Hortence's house at the corner at St. Vincent and we mark to the town hall and after that there is a big rally at the central plaza.

Burglar Got Big Bills From BIL
The Belize Infrastructure Limited at the Market Square in Belmopan was burglarised on Tuesday. The Administrative Assistant 27 year old Aura Montes reported to police that between 4:46 on Tuesday evening and 8:45 on Wednesday morning her workplace was burglarised. An assortment of items were stolen including 1 Dell Laptop, 1 Epson brand Projector, 1 white Oyster blender, 3 Canon calculators and 1 radio all to a total value over $6,000. The thief or thieves broke into the building through the roof by screwing off one of the zinc sheets. Police have no one detained as yet.

Want More From Chetumal?
With hundreds of thousands of Belizeans spending millions of dollars in Chetumal annually – you wouldn’t think that the southern capital of Quintana Roo has to promote itself too much, right? Well, think again: The Embassy of Mexico and the Chetumal Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism organized a Tourism and Commercial Mission today at the Institute of Mexico. Participants included hotels, restaurants, tour operators, travel agencies and other commercial companies from Chetumal, Bacalar and Mahahual. The objective is to promote products and services that Southern Quintana Roo has to offer, as well as to encourage regional integration between Belizean and Mexican companies. The Mexican Ambassador told us more:… Carlos Quesnel -Ambassador of Mexico to Belize "As we all know, Belize and Mexico we have a very good relationship but we also have a very good potential. This potential can be realised through more trade, more commerce and more influx of Belizean visitors to Mexico and more Mexican visitors to Belize. So we are very happy that we have this opportunity today to share this event with Mexicans and Belizeans together - trying to look for new opportunities for business.

The BTIA Bi-Annual
The Belize Tourism Industry Association held its 30th Bi-Annual General Meeting today at the Princess Hotel. The meeting, which was attended by members from across the country, touched topics such as the core importance of customer service from upper management to frontline staff and the importance of teamwork. It was an all-day event - and we stopped in this morning. John Burgos – Executive Director "We have the BTB as I mentioned before, we're going to be doing a proposal for the final destination chapters. Currently we're officially launching the local ad campaign. With the slogan, discover how to be a Belizean traveller and you can sign on for the hashtag #belizeantraveller. We already sent the information, you should be able to sign on basically we want you guys to be able to provide packages to promote local businesses. In other words your family, teenagers, who ever is going to be able to travel country wide this year, especially during the slow season.

San Salvador Expert Says Yes To Min Of Housing
Last night, we showed you day one of the Housing Ministry’s workshop organised to come up with a National Housing Policy. The goal is to create an action plan which will attract more international funding agencies to look favourably on proposals to provide affordable housing to needy citizens. The Salvadoran Facilitator told the media today that they are impressed with the enthusiasm from the Housing Agencies who participated in the workshop: The Housing workshop ended this evening.

The Importance OF Being Cecile
She touched down this afternoon at the PGIA in true -bad gyal- style. We're taking about Jamaican reggae artist Cecile. The reggae songstress is in Belize to perform two shows. This time she didn’t come alone – she brought along one of dancehalls newest female artists -who goes by the name of Amanyea. You might know her as a former Miami Heat dancer – but she is singing now. 7news caught up with the crew. The first show is tomorrow night at Club Elite and then Cecile will hit the stage on Saturday night in Dangriga.

Woodrow Rolling SouthWest To Honduras
According to reports, the Belize National Team goalkeeper, Woodrow West has signed with the Honduran semi professional team, El Progresso. They met with West yesterday evening at Yim Saam restaurant in Belmopan and finalised terms. This picture from PLUSTV shows the 29 year old with a Progresso Team Jersey. Reports said that the same Club Deportivo Progresso would be meeting with super striker Deon McCauley today to discuss him playing for them. We could not reach McCauley for comment. Both players are currently contracted to local teams in Belize – which would have to grant a release.

BEL Nets Big Bucks
Right now at the Radisson, BEL is having its Annual General Meeting. The company will declare a dividend of 15 cents per share, which is up almost 90% from last year. But even more impressive is the 36.2 million dollars in net earnings for the year ended December 2014. The Company is also reporting a 51% reduction in the frequency of blackouts since 2010. All this is good, but lamentably, for a company that is wholly publicly owned, BEL does not open its Annual Meetings to the media as do the other utilities BTL and BWSL.

Channel 5

Woodrow West Signed By Honduras Progresso
Within days of the big win against the national football team of the Dominican Republic, the goalkeeper who pulled off amazing saves for Belize is moving on from the Jaguars. [...]

Maurice Felix Surrenders…Is Remanded on Murder Charge
Relatives of murder suspect, Maurice Felix, confirmed to us today that early this morning, he handed himself into police custody. But strangely, when Maurice and his sister visited the police [...]

67K of Marijuana Found by Checkpoint Cops
This evening, a group of four persons, who were busted inside a Cherokee jeep, were remanded to the Belize Central Prison, after the prosecutor objected to bail due to the [...]

PACT Act Amendments Tabled in Cabinet
Amendments to the PACT Act which were allegedly tabled at Cabinet have been the cause of much speculation and even concern among N.G.O.s in Belize. Some representatives we spoke to [...]

N.G.O.s Have Concerns About Amendments
Among the complaints we’ve heard about the proposed amendments is that there is much more power being vested in the Minister, and apparently less inclusion of N.G.O.’s and less dependence [...]

Guatemalan Ambassador Admits Incursions Are Not Being Controlled
On Monday, the new Guatemalan Ambassador to Belize, Manuel Estuardo Roldan, was sworn in to assume his diplomatic mission in Belize. He begins his appointment at a time when there [...]

He Hopes to Rebuild Relationship Between the Countries
Ambassador Roldan says that his primary focus will be to build the relationship between Guatemala and Belize. And one of his priorities is to help alleviate the pressures on the [...]

Belize Named as One of World’s Worst Tax Havens
On Wednesday, Moody’s Investors Service reported that Belize’s debt is unsustainable. Tonight, we report that Belize is among fourteen Caribbean countries blacklisted by the European Union as the world’s worst [...]

New Fire Tower for Rio Bravo Protected Area
Nestled in the far reaches of the Belize River Valley is the Rio Bravo Protected Area, a large and lushly forested zone where flora and fauna thrive. But like other [...]

Supreme Court Examines Feinstein/FSTV/G.O.B. Relationship
Can the Government of Belize make agreements with a private party concerning another private partyâ€™s operation of his/her business? Can the Government cede collection of revenue by taxes to a [...]

No Legislative Support for Head Tax
The so-called head tax, paid by cruise ship passengers to enter Belize, is collected by the Belize Tourism Board (B.T.B.) and shared with the Belize City Council, Protected Areas Conservation [...]

Marshalleck Says G.O.B. Misrepresented Itself
Feinstein agreed that the original agreement for the village in 2001 designated it the only port of entry for cruise ships in Belize District for fifteen years, this has subsequently [...]

Butane Prices Down
As of midnight tonight, there will be a drop in the cost of butane gasoline. The government, in a press release from the Supplies Control Unit, announced today that effective [...]

San Pedro to Host LGBT Pride Week
In news that will surely fire off much heated debate on the social media, News Five has confirmed that from September fifth to September twelfth, members of the LGBT community [...]

More Works Underway on F.F.B. Football Pitch
The football pitch at F.F.B. headquarters in Belmopan has been an unending source of frustration for national team players and executive members. But not anymore. If you watched the home [...]

B.T.I.A. President Reveals 10 Short Term Goals
The Belize Tourism Industry Association is celebrating thirty years. And with those thirty years, the association has grown tremendously, just as much as the industry. The association president says that [...]

Mexican Embassy Hosts Trade Mission
The Mexican Embassy today hosted a half day trade mission for Mexican businesses to meet with local businesses. The aim is to build a relationship and forge business opportunities that [...]

Healthy Living: Emergency Apps by Red Cross
With the hurricane season upon us, the Belize Red Cross has released two new emergency apps that are tailored to meet the needs of the country. The first app basically [...]

CTV3

Man Slapped With Three Charges On Trying To Set Wife On Fire
Joel Alfredo Pech, a Belizean laborer of Santa Clara Village in the Corozal District, has been charged for the crimes of attempted murder, harm, and aggravated assault. The charges were filed against him following investigations into a report made by his wife, thirty six year old Maria Pech. Pech told police that on Monday of this week, at about seven thirty in the night, she was cleaning some aluminum to sell while her husband was asleep inside their home when he woke up and began insulting her and when she tried to go inside he began threatening her and her children. At that point, Pech says Joel came outside wielding a machete with which he lashed her on her left leg. The woman told police that she ran but he set chase after her, threw the machete at her but missed. She reports that things got worse when she returned home.

Espinosa Get 16 Years In Prison For Manslaughter
Sentencing for 26 year old Krismar Espinosa was held this morning at the Northern Session of the Supreme Court. Presiding judge was Hurbert Lord and Espinosa’s defence attorney was Leo Bradley. On June 5th 2015, Espinosa was found not guilty for murder but guilty of a lesser charge for manslaughter when it comes to the death of then 24 year old Rachel Cicely Chun. In court today, after 4 witnesses were called for the mitigation plea, Judge Lord sentenced Espinosa to 16 years imprisonment. Viewers may recall that in September of 2007, Espinosa was accused for the murder of Chun. Chun’s badly decomposed body was removed from an unfinished concrete house on Santa Familia Street in Orange Walk Town. At the crime scene, a bloody cement block, which was believed to be the murder weapon, was also found. That same day, Krismar Espinosa, an Orange Walk resident, who was only seventeen years old at the time, was arrested since he was the last person Chun was seen with and due to the conversations he had following the murder.

Consumers Will Get $3.00 Reduction On Price For Butane
We start off this segment of the newscast with some good news. Effective tomorrow, consumers will pay $3.00 less for a 100 pound cylinder of Liquid Petroleum Gas. A bulletin from the Supplies Control Unit reveals that the new controlled price per 100 pound cylinder imported by Belize Gas Limited and Western Gas Company Limited from Pemex in Mexico will drop $3.00 in Orange Walk Town going from $91.00 to $88.00. In Corozal, consumers will now pay a new price of $87.00 dollars. The controlled price of LPG imported by Belize Western Energy Ltd, Zeta Gas and Gas Tomza from within Central America now stands at $86.00 dollars for Orange Walk Town and $85.00 for consumers in Corozal. The across the board decrease of $3.00 dollars is attributed to a current production boom in North America that has led to a downward pressure in oil derivatives including LPG. It is of note that compared to last year; prices per cylinder are $32.00 lower this year.

Mexicans Claim Mistreatment At The Corozal Free Zone
There are reports surfacing that there is a surge of incidence of violence against Mexicans at the Corozal Commercial Free Zone. There is a full write up on the issue circulating on Facebook. According to that report, the rate of violence against Mexicans is rising and fast. The report even states that the level of aggression and bad treatment has risen up to seventy percent from last year. The write-up goes on to criticize and even discriminate against Belizean culture as being one of arrogance, adding that this is clearly demonstrated at the Belizean border. The author claims that there is rampant discrimination against Mexican nationals and makes the comparison to when Belizeans cross into Chetumal where they are treated with great hospitality. Of course we remind viewers of news articles we aired and which were reported on Mexican media in Chetumal of the growing incidence of robberies and abuse of Belizeans by Mexican taxi drivers and at grocery stores.

Belize Has New Israeli Ambassador
The beginning of a new relationships between the Guatemalan and Israeli communities have commenced as Manuel Roldan of Guatemala and Oren Bar El of Israel were sworn in as new ambassadors to Belize. Israel and Guatemala share a long history together; Israel provided weapons to the Guatemalan government during its genocidal civil war. Israel also became Guatemala’s main arms supplier in the 1970’s after the United States refused to supply them with weapons. Ironically, those very weapons were used for causing threats along our Belizean Borders. But it is a new decade, and despite the disorderly history between Guatemala and Belize, Israeli Ambassador, Bar El, assures the public that Israel is unbiased to the disputes. He personally believes that the disputes between Guatemala and Belize can be solved without Israeli input.

Three Men and One Woman Remanded For Heroin Bust In Corozal
They were found in possession of 7.4 kilos of heroin and tonight they are paying the price for committing the crime. Twenty five year old Eber Rivera of San Joaquin Village, Corozal, 51 year old Fermin Velasquez of Ranchito Village, Corozal, 51 year old Kua Liao, Chinese businessman of Mile 8, George Price Highway and 38 year old Salvadoran domestic Alba Velasquez of Ranchito Village, Corozal are spending their first night at the Hattiville Prison after being arraigned this morning at the Corozal Magestrates Court for drug trafficking. As reported last night, the Police Anti-Drug Unit was on a special operation when they searched a residence located near the junction of the Phillip Goldson Highway and the Maya Airstrip road where all four persons were in. There authorities found seven parcels of suspected heroin which amounted to 7, 418 grams. All four will remain in priosn until their next court date. We understand they will apply for bail at the Supreme Court level.

LOVE FM

Assistant Coach Believes Football Match was Fixed
Three football players are being investigating by CONCACAF and UNCAF for allegedly match-fixing. The complaint suggests that the game played by the Verdes and BDF FC on April 29 of this year was fixed by the three players. That complaint was made by the Assistant Head Coach for FFB, Charlie Slusher, who told Love News […]

Love Foundation Holds Awards Breakfast Event
Several persons from the private and public sectors as well as the general public attended a Breakfast meeting this morning at the Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. The event was the Love Foundation’s first Awards Breakfast geared at presenting to its stakeholders, the activities and causes that the organization has undertaken over the […]

Butane Goes Down Three Dollars
Friday, June 19 will see a change in butane prices as per the information coming out of the Ministry of Trade, Investment Promotion, Private Sector Development and Consumer Protection. According to the release, the new controlled price per one hundred pound cylinder for liquid petroleum gas, imported from PEMEX in Mexico and distributed by Belize […]

Ambassador Nisbet Hosts Investment Seminar
The Ambassador of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Cherie Nisbet hosted the 2015 Invest in Belize: Investment Seminar on Monday. The event was the first of its kind and was held with the aim of attracting Taiwanese investment to Belize. The delegation comprised of Lincoln Blake, Director of the Policy and Investment Unit […]

PlusTV

Housing Ministry prepares new policy; grants for repairs available
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is rarely heard from but they continue to work at solving the problems of Belizeans in acquiring and maintaining proper housing. Today it embarked on the creation of a policy on establishing social housing for the country...

Man shot in Lordâ€™s Bank
A man shot Tuesday night is in critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. 28 year old Jorge Caseres was socializing at a residence in Lordâ€™s Bank village around 8:46 in the evening when someone knocked on the main front door...

Husband accused of attempted murder of wife
A husband is facing charges for the attempted murder of his wife. 36-year-old Maria Pech, a housewife of Santa Clara village, Corozal District, reported that on Monday June 15 at about 7:30p.m. she was in her back yard when her husband Joel Pech assaulted her with a machete...

Four charged for trafficking heroin
Four persons have been charged with drug trafficking charges in the North. On Tuesday June 17 at about 5:15 p.m., Police Anti-Drug Unit (ADU) were conducting operations within the Corozal District when they searched a residence in Ranchito Village and found seven parcels of suspected heroin...

Four Belizeans bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
Four Belizeans were today bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire on the occasion of the 2015 New Year Honours. The honours were conferred by the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at today’s Investiture Ceremony...

Is Woodrow West being drafted for the international football league in Honduras?
Is Belizean goalkeeper Woodrow West being drafted for the international football league in Honduras? Plus news has been informed that today, members of El Progreso, the football club that wants West on their team, met with the 29 year old star goal keeper to finalize the documents...

The Guardian

Petro keeps rolling in Dangriga
On June 1, a contract was signed between Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) and Hubert Usher and Sons Construction for the complete renovation of the Carl Ramos Stadium. The project will cost some 1.2 million dollars and on June 15 the first phase of the construction got underway. The Carl Ramos football pitch is one of the few, if not the best, in the country featuring a natural grass field. It has excellent natural drainage, proper slope and planarity. Over the years it has been well maintained, though it has been highly utilized. The rest of the facilities however were in definite need of refurbishment and new construction where major facility gaps existed. That will now be addressed The project will include the construction of a center building to hold the ticketing / entrance space, VIP and Media covered space and the accommodation of bleachers for 800+ along with bleachers for general admission fans. The facilities will also include public restrooms and concession facilities.

Jaguars enter third round of World Cup Qualifiers
There is no question that Government will make another significant contribution to the Belize Football Jaguars to assist in preparations for the third round of World Cup Qualifiers. No decision has been made on the amount to be donated or manner in which Government will assist but that should be decided after consultation with FFB executive. In 2013, GOB covered the travelling expenses of the Gold Cup contending team with a $50,000 donation and supported the decisions of nationally owned companies and statutory bodies to make donations. One person close to the Adminsitration says, “There is no chance that the national team will miss the third round because of weak support from Government.” He says, “If anything, football is the most lucky sport because the Prime Minister and all the senior Ministers are huge football crazies.” The Jaguars qualified for the third round of the 2018 World Cup in Russia with an impressive three-nil victory over a higher ranked Dominican Republic team. After beating the Dominican Republic two Deon McCauley goals to one on Thursday, June 11, at the Felix Sanchez Olympic Stadium in Santo Domingo, the Jaguars returned home for a match at the FFB Stadium in the capital city, Belmopan. Hundreds of enthusiastic Belizeans turned out and purchased tickets to the most expensive sporting event in Belize’s history; a sure sign of genuine love for the Jaguars.

C – Ray Cycling Club Youth Series 2015
The C-Ray Cycling Club Youth series for 2015 commenced on Sunday 14 June, 2015 at 1:00 pm on Princess Margaret Drive in front of the Marion Jones Stadium. Some 60 children registered to participate in 8 different categories.

Mayor Humphreys rolls out tax dollars into Dangriga’s development
These days, just about every infrastructure project that is being seen is thought to be Petro Caribe rolling, and while a significant number of those projects are indeed Petro-Caribe financed, it is not all being done through that program. One municipality in which that is the case is Dangriga. Having been in office for 100 days, the Dangriga town council has been able to prove that while Petro Caribe financing is a blessing, much can be done with existing resources. According to Mayor Francis Humphreys, through prudent financial management, he's been able to finance a number of projects from recurrent revenue from the town council itself. The repairing of John's Creek flood gate is one such project. For over three years the flood gate which was a major flood mitigation mechanism for residents in the Wagaerale and Benguche Areas of the town was not operational. That meant that during the rainy season residents would be flooded out. Over the past few days, with finances from the municipal government, the John's Creek flood gate was repaired.

Contracts signed for Cayo Central Constituency
A number of contracts have recently been signed for works in the Cayo Central Division. The good news comes as Chief Engineer Lennox Bradley, says the source of the funding for the new projects will be coming from Petrocaribe. The contracts just signed include the building of the Santa Elena Health Clinic, worth $270,000.00 and when completed will shorten the time for residents to access medical care. (Traditionally residents; especially the weak and elderly have had to travel to the San Ignacio Community Hospital many miles away.) The contractor who signed is Luis Avella and he is scheduled to start works on June 29 and is expected to complete the project in 16 weeks. Under the new contracts, two community centers will be built, one in San Antonio at a cost of $161,426.80 and the other in Cristo Rey at a cost of $90,592.07. The contractors for these two projects are Pedro Gutierrez and Carmelo Pech respectively. The works are to start on June 22 and the expected time of completion for both projects is 16 weeks.

Belizeans detained by Guatemalan armed forces
Five Belizeans living in the District of Toledo took a trip into the Guatemalan village of Santa Cruz, which is the neighbor of the southern village of Jalacte. They went to have a nice road trip for the day and ended up being detained and criminally charged by Guatemalan law enforcement. They claim that they were breaking no laws of that country, but Guatemalan soldiers wrongfully accused them of being drunk and disorderly. As a result Ray Martinez, Ashton Mckenzie, Rafael Cus, Rutilio Cal, and Mitchell Romero had to plea guilty to a charge that they assert absolute innocence of. To understand why these young men would willingly enter into Guatemalan territory for such an outing, readers must understand the dynamics between the Belizean village of Jalacte and the Guatemalan Village of Santa Cruz. The border between these two communities is completely unregulated, and has been for years. There are no Customs and Immigration facilities to regulate the flow of persons on either side. Because of that, an interesting relationship has developed where residents of Toledo travel over to Santa Cruz every day to buy cheap groceries from that side, which have less taxes. Some also go over there and sell their produce, and in some instances it is easier to get goods and services from Santa Cruz, than it is to get them from Punta Gorda Town. Strictly speaking, that’s contraband goods that are flowing in an out, but because it has become such an entrenched way of life, for Toledo, it is seen as normal. And, since the Road to Jalacte has been paved, there are specific bus runs which take residents of the south from whatever village they are from to Jalacte on daily runs to conduct business.

Community Center in Calla Creek being refurbished
4 the World volunteers from Calla Creek Village along with the Village Chairman Saul Uck and 4 the World's Executive Director Robert Keith Froom started a project to refurbish the village's Community Center on Sunday of this past weekend. Calla Creek is a Western Village by the Belize Guatemala border and has the unpredictable Mopan River going by it. In a press release from 4 the World, “..The Community Center is an important need of any community in Belize and Calla Creek's Community Center was unusable due to rotten wood framing, infestation of bats, no electricity and a leaky roof.” This 4 the World project will continue through the summer and will provide a place for the school by the end of August 2015. The Community Center will also provide shelter to members of the Calla Creek Community during severe storms and will also house NEMO’s early warning alarm system that warns villagers of dangerous floods.

Venezuela and Belize Celebrate Petro-Caribe’s 10th Anniversary
The Venezuelan naval vessel “Simon Bolivar” is heading to Jamaica which is its fourth and final stop on a tour to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the signing of the Petro-Caribe Agreement. The vessel, which is named after the liberator of Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela, was commissioned to visit four of Venezuela’s closest allies in the Caribbean: Barbados, Belize, Cuba and Jamaica. The Simon Bolivar is manned by a crew of 170, mostly cadets on an educational trip. An official ceremony was held at the Memorial Park on Thursday, June 11, at which the Head of State, Governor General Sir Colville Young, inspected the Guard of Honor. “You have graced our shores as we reach the tenth anniversary of the Petrocaribe Agreement,” said Lough-Ann Burns Martinez, Belize’s Ambassador Designate to Venezuela, as she welcomed the seamen to the Jewel. Martinez praised the late President Chavez for the Petro-Caribe initiative, liken it to a second independence: “Two hundred years ago Simon Bolivar, the Great Liberator, in his letter to Jamaica, called for unity and for self determination. So many years later this Petrocaribe initiative which is firmly based in the belief that we have as fraternal nations, that we own the right to determine how best to steer our economy and our policies for the betterment of our people and countries carry on this very vision.”

Petro Petro Everywhere
On Friday, June 12, two contracts were signed by the Minister of works. The first project is the rehabilitation of streets and construction of culverts in Dangriga. The contractor for those projects is DEC and Sons of Stann Creek. The cost of these projects will be $995,245.40. The second contract which was signed was for the concreting of streets in Succotz Village and the contractor is BCG Construction Limited. On Monday, June 15, four contracts were signed at the Ministry of Works for the rehabilitation of two community centers and a building to serve as a health center as well as the paving of three streets in Santa Elena, Cayo. (see story on Insert D) The Phenom that is the Petro Caribe has touched more lives in the last three years than anything else before it. Although it had been available during the PUP administration it was only enjoyed by a select few associated with some of the PUP leaders. When it was reactivated in late 2012 by Hon. Dean Barrow he sagely predicted that the country of Belize will see the kind of infrastructural growth and transformation the likes of which has never been seen before.

The 10th Annual Belize Public Service Awards
The Government of Belize through the Ministry of the Public Service congratulates and thanks the following Public Officers for their hard work and dedication in serving the people and Government of Belize. Public Officers will be awarded for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions at the 10th Annual Belize Public Service Awards Ceremony and Luncheon on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at the Blue Water Grill, San Pedro Town, commencing at 10:30 a.m.

Queen’s Birthday honors
In a News Release from Belize House in Belmopan, the Office of the Governor-General Announces that Her Majesty the Queen has been graciously pleased to make the following appointments to THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER BRITISH EMPIRE on the occasion of BIRTHDAY HONOURS 2015. Order of the British Empire M.B.E. To be an Ordinary Member of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: Mr. Delhart Luthrel Courtney Sr., for contribution to Sports and the Community Mr. Victor Moreno Sr., for contribution to Music Mrs. Norberta Pulido, for contribution to the Community The Date for the presentation of awards will be announced later.

Four Belizeans Bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
Four Belizeans were today bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire on the occasion of the 2015 New Year Honours. The honours were conferred by the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Attorney Michael Young received the order of Ordinary Commander for his contribution to the legal profession and the community; Ms. Esther Ayuso and Mrs. Laura Tucker-Longsworth received the order of Ordinary Officers: Ms. Ayuso for her contribution to the community and women’s rights and Mrs. Tucker-Longsworth for her contribution to nursing and the community. For her contribution to community and leadership, Mrs. Bernadette Fernandez received the order of Ordinary Member. The Investiture Ceremony took place at the Belize House in Belmopan.

Justin Lemott to stand trial for murder
Justin Lemott will stand trial for the murder of Richard Waight Jr., 17, in the October Session of the Supreme Court. On Friday, April 4, 2014 a fight broke out on the basketball court in Hattieville Village and during the exchange Waight was stabbed to the chest. He fell to the ground and struggled to breathe as blood poured out unto the grass. Witnesses point to Lemott as the man who inflicted the stab wound on Waight. A Preliminary Inquiry was held before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith on Friday, June 12, to determine if there is sufficient evidence for Lemott to stand trial. During the PI, Lemott was unrepresented and made no submission. With that the Chief Magistrate accepted 25 statements and 10 sets of documentary exhibits from prosecutor, Cpl. Christopher Smith, which they intend to rely on at Lemott’s trial. His case was committed to the October session of the Supreme Court.

Diondray McKoy free after appeal
Diondray McKoy was sentenced to 12 years in prison for trying to kill Everal Gray but now he is a free man after the Court of Appeals overruled his conviction on Tuesday, June 16. McKoy was accused of the attempted murder of Everal Gray at Gray’s home on Queen Charlotte Street in June of 2009. Gray reported to police that he was at home when someone called his name. He answered the door and that was when several shots were fired at him. Gray gave a detailed identification of the shooter and later identified McKoy to police. However, he changed his story at trial and was deemed a hostile witness. McKoy succeeded in establishing that the identification evidence against him was poor and the trial judge had failed to give certain directions to the jury deciding the case.

Murder case falls apart after cooperating accomplice changes story
Supreme Court Justice Troadio Gonzalez directed a jury of seven men and five women to declare Talbert Mena and Jamal Jackson not guilty of the murder of Nigerian security guard Kabiru Olun-gu-dudu in February of 2010. Olungududu was working at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel when he was stabbed to death. He sustained 8 stab wounds trying to prevent an attempted and unsuccessful robbery of the establishment by 4 men. Kareem Stevens, who was also charged with the murder, was granted immunity from prosecution in exchange for testifying on behalf of the Crown as its chief witness. However, he turned on them and denied giving the police a statement, eventually becoming a hostile witness. Senior Counsel, Simeon Sampson, representing Mena and Jackson, argued that his clients had no case to answer and Justice Gonzalez agreed.

Illegal Honduran Immigrant caught at Bus Terminal
A construction worker from El Parasio Village, Honduras, Yony Nunez, 36, was pulled over by immigration officers on Thursday, June 11, just after he exited a bus at the Belize City Bus Terminal. He was asked to produce documents to show his immigration status in Belize but Nunez was unable to do so. Therefore, he was remanded into custody and an investigation revealed no record of him entering Belize legally through a point of entry. Nunez then admitted to immigration officers that he entered the country through the Mopan River in Benque Viejo on Wednesday, June 10. He was charged with entering Belize illegally.

Patrick Petillo busted with 120 grams of weed
Patrick Petillo was busted by police with 120.9 grams of weed on Wednesday, June 10, and is now out on bail for one count of drug trafficking. Police officers were conducting foot patrol on Lovely Lane when police constable J. Waight and WPC Lourdes Torres saw Petillo acting suspiciously at about 12:42 a.m. on Wednesday. When he saw them, Petillo started to run and that was when the officers ordered him to stop. He continued running and the officers chased after him. They caught up with him in a yard in the area. He was searched and police found a plastic bag in the front of his pants waist. The bag contained a green leafy item suspected to be cannabis. He was detained and taken to the Queen Street Police Station where the item was examined. It proved to be 120.9 grams of weed. Petillo was arrested for drug trafficking.

Belize Softball Federations names national junior girls softballers
The Belize Softball Federation has announced the names of the twenty five junior girls’ softballers that will be trying out for 18 spots to represent Belize at the Central American Junior Girls Softball Championship scheduled for San Salvador, El Salvador from July 31-August 3, 2015. The players selected are from across the country and they are Shareeni Soberanis, Shanaya Soberanis, Rose Simpson, Renisha Richards, Ronicia Vernon, Shanae Williams and Ashira Harris from Cayo, Denika Noralez, Chelsea Young, Kelsy Robinson, Elma Wade, Sabrina Campos, Devonie Reyes, Ranisha Rhaburn, Zhanae Jex, Rebecca Nicholson, Lynese Alvarez, Jalecia Jones and Sherelee Nicholson from Belize Rural, Jasany Westby and Janel Conorquie from Orange Walk, Essenie Ciego and Jahshema Saunders from Belize City.

Health Hookup
The Doctor's Order Can’t Stop Sneezing “I can’t stop sneezing doc!” is probably the most common symptom I hear as it pertains to allergic rhinitis – allergies. Allergic rhinitis is basically a group of symptoms that manifest as a result of exposure to an allergen. An allergen is something that elicits a reaction from the body. It can be consumed (food allergy), touched (allergy when coming in contact with a substance like poison ivy), or inhaled (pollen, dust, smoke). In this case we are focusing on allergens that cause you to sneeze. So why does this happen? The body treats the allergen as a foreign threat and releases something known as histamine to help defend against it; unfortunately it also causes the symptoms that make us uncomfortable and sick.

Temporary Pontoon Bridge Tragedy
This Sunday, June 14th, marks the 53rd anniversary of the Haulover Creek Temporary Pontoon Bridge Tragedy. The Temporary Pontoon Bridge was erected across the Haulover Creek between the end of Pickstock Street on the north side and Richard Sidewalk on the south side. Seven persons drowned in the Haulover Creek when a section of the bridge became loose. Although I personally did not experience this tragedy, it was surprising to me that some elders I spoke to and who lived in Belize City at the time of the accident vaguely remembered the event. I recently read that one well known Belizean writer and newspaper publisher, remarked in 2005 and 2007, that he could not remember if a demonstration/riot of May 29th, 1972, in which he participated, crossed the Pontoon Bridge. I think not, that was 10 years after the event. So when I came across the Official Commission of Inquiry Report,submitted to Governor Sir Peter Stallard, into the circumstances surrounding the event, I thought it would be worthwhile sharing the circumstances of this historical accident with you. Especially with today’s generation. It is not intended to conjure unpleasant memories of those who lost their lives or survived the accident. It is just a reminder that it is good to follow the rules. In this case, following the rules would have averted the loss of seven lives in the Haulover Creek.

8% Salary Increase for Police, Teachers
“We are so very pleased that we are once again coming through with [more than] ten percent over two years for the stewards of our education, our administration, our security.” – Honourable Prime Minister Dean Barrow. In a time when governments in the Caribbean region are raising taxes, freezing wages and laying off workers, the Government of Belize is going to spend $38 million on an eight percent salary increase for teachers, police officers and other public servants. This is the second consecutive year that public officers will benefit from a salary increase. In fiscal year 2014/2015, the Government spent $368 million for personal emoluments and $60 million for pensions. That includes almost $30 million for a six percent salary increase. The increases are based on a formula established in a Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Government of Belize and the unions (Public Service Union, Belize National Teachers Union and the Association of Public Service Senior Managers). Under the Framework Agreement between the negotiating teams of the Government and the unions signed in February of 2014, one half of the increase in actual recurrent revenue from one year to the next (in a three year span) will be allocated to salary increases for public officers and teachers. Based on this formula, $29 million was allocated to salary increases in 2014 and now $38 million this year.

Guatemalan Coast Guard Boat removed from Barrier Reef
After being grounded for two days on the Glover’s Reef Atoll, the Guatemalan Naval Vessel, bearing markings “GC-651 Tecum Uman” was successfully extricated and allowed to leave Belizean waters on Saturday, June 13. An assessment of the damages that this vessel did to the reef is being prepared, and it will be sent to the Guatemalan Government through the diplomatic channels. The Belizean Government intends to seek financial compensation for this navigational mishap. News of the gunboat’s grounding on the reef went out early on Thursday, June 11, and after 3 hours by boat, a team from the Belize National Coast Guard confirmed that the vessel was indeed there. It had run aground on the reef about 500 meters off Middle Caye on Glovers Reef, in Belize’s southern waters. The government officials, like every other citizen became concerned about the implications of a Guatemalan vessel deep in Belizean territorial waters. So, the Coast Guard Officers questioned the boat’s 11-member crew, and that’s when they were informed that the vessel was on its way to Isla Mujeres in Mexico, when either a navigation error was made or the boat’s propulsion system had a glitch.

Indigenous Community Leaders Belize-Guatemala Meet
Following a reunion held in Punta Gorda among Indigenous Community leaders from Belize and Guatemala on the 20th of March, a three day trip was made to Peten by Maya Q’eqchi leaders of Belize. The leaders of indigenous communities from Southern Peten and Southern Belize shared their ideas, and vision on how to unite efforts and promote local participation that addresses the environmental, social and economic problems of their communities situated along the Belize-Guatemala border. The event started on the 5th of June in Poptun, Peten with a Maya ceremony which ended on the 6th of June (Kahib Noj) asking the Creator to illuminate the minds of the indigenous leaders. The representatives of the indigenous communities developed a draft Declaration with requests and recommendations so that more attention is paid to the communities located near the border by their Governments, which can help reduce the level of incursions that is affecting the Chiquibul-Maya Mountains and prevent incidents that can cause much pain and suffering. Once reviewed and finalized, the Declaration, whose contents is based on matters related to Territory, Natural Resources and Ancestral Knowledge, it will be presented to the Governments of Belize and Guatemala.

Belize’s mental health staff being updated on mental health practices
A three day workshop for mental health staff working at the Belize Ministry of Health ended on Saturday of this past weekend at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. According to Eleanor Bennett, Nursing Administrator at the Ministry of Health, the goal of this annual workshop is for the staff to be updated on their knowledge of mental health, so that they can provide the best evidence based treatment that is available elsewhere in the World. Thus; Psychiatric Nurse Practioners from across the Country became attuned to modern mental health practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Making the presentations during the workshop was Dr. Cyndi Aronson from the Mount Sinai University; as well as Dr. Stan Arco, a Psychiatrist from the Columbia University, also of New York. Dr. Arco told the participants on Saturday that they do courageous work in difficult circumstances. He also discouraged the use of Benzodiazepines during pregnancy for “…they are associated with congenital abnormalities.”

Upcoming plans for the People’s Coalition of Cayo
In its monthly meeting this past Wednesday night, members of the People’s Coalition of Cayo PCC went into planning mode. At this latest meeting, Chairman Eduardo ‘Dito’ Juan appointed Omar Tut, who is a Civil Engineer in background, as his Deputy. Among its plans, the PCC is lobbying for a proper septic holder for the San Ignacio Police Station, which will serve both Police and prisoners. The grouping which seeks to build community and police partnerships is also now planning for a public consultation. The PCC has been able to connect a generator to the San Ignacio Police Station and is now in the process of acquiring fuel from different sources. This generator for San Ignacio Police comes just in time for the hurricane season and the National Emergency Management Organization NEMO has been attuned to its existence. Also on Wednesday night, Jason Jones, a representative from San Ignacio Police, provided the latest crime statistics for San Ignacio and Santa Elena Towns and surrounding areas. For the month of May of this year, three vehicles were stolen. They were a white in color 1991 Honda motorcycle L/P CYM-1639, a red in color Meilun motorcycle as well as a blue in color Meilun brand motorcycle with identification number LE3YCM507DA000086.

Devon Bailey to Supreme Court for attempted murder
A Preliminary Inquiry in the case against Devon Bailey for two counts of attempted murder concluded with a commital for trial at the Supreme Court in October. Bailey is being accused of trying to kill, Charles Hines, 31, and Eldon Solomon, 41, on Elston Kerr Street on Friday, August 15, 2014. According to a police report, Hines and Solomon were walking on Elston Kerr Street when they came across a group of three men. One of the men opened fired in their direction. Hines was grazed on the top of his head. Solomon was shot in the back. Both were treated and released from the Karl Heusner Memorial.

Bail for teacher accused of having sexual relations with a minor
A teacher of Seine Bight Village, Desmond Ramirez, 30, is out on bail after he was charged for allegedly engaging in sexual activities with a 15 year-old minor. On Monday, June 8, Ramirez was arraigned in the Independence Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Yolanda Demoya for a single count of unlawful sexual intercourse. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and Magistrate Demoya denied bail and remanded him to the Belize Central Prison. However, Ramirez’s attorney, Oscar Selgado, applied for bail at the Supreme Court. The bail application was heard before Justice Adolph Lucas on Friday, June 12. Selgado submitted that his client has an alibi witness placing him somewhere else at the time the sexual allegation is said to have occurred. According to Selgado, his client was neither in the village or near the virtual complainant on the date specified in the charge sheet made against him. Justice Lucas granted Ramirez bail in the sum of $5,000 plus one surety of the same amount, with conditions.

Gun Assault charge dismissed against Daniel Caine
Daniel Caine, who is on remand for the murder of Harrison Smith Jr., saw another serious charge against him dropped on Friday, June 12. A charge of aggravated assault with a firearm against Caine was dismissed in the courtroom of Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith. Caine was accused of assaulting Iran Jones with a firearm on Friday, October 4, 2014. According to a police report, Jones said that he was on North Front Street when Caine pointed a firearm at him. However, on Friday, June 12, 2015 Jones appeared in court and said he does not wish to proceed with the matter against Caine. Therefore, the case against Caine was dismissed.

Daniel Bradley, 19, remanded for sex with 14-year-old girl
Daniel Bradley, a 19-year-old resident of Ladyville, was escorted to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, June 16, to answer to a single charge of unlawful sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old female. Bradley was represented by attorney Dickie Bradley when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser. The matter was dealt with “in camera” so all media personnel were asked to leave the court. Allegation being made against Bradley is that on Monday, June 8, 2015, he had sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old girl at a home on the Phillip Goldson Highway. No plea was taken in court since the matter is an indictable offense and due to the nature of the crime Bradley was denied bail and remanded to the Belize Central Prison until July 16, 2015. Bradley’s attorney is presently seeking bail through the Supreme Court.

Antonio Gongora cleared of rape charge
Cayo taxi driver, Antonio Gongora, 30, is free from a charge of rape after a jury of nine found him not guilty of the charge on Friday, June 12, 2015. Gongora was accused of raping a teacher in the Cayo District on December 29, 2012. The teacher reported to police that sometime after midnight on December 29, 2012, she asked the taxi man to take her home after a night out with a friend at a restaurant and bar. However, instead of taking her home, the teacher says he took her to a racetrack and raped her in the back seat of the vehicle. The incident was reported to police and Gongora was arrested and charged with rape. The trial took place in the courtroom of Justice Denis Hanomansingh in Belmopan last week. In the alleged victim’s testimony, she says Gongora is a man she knows well. She says that she was with a friend at Meluchie’s Restaurant and Bar on the night of the incident.

Belize City Man Lured to his death
Twenty eight year-old Allison “Wally” Williams, a resident of Rivero Street, was gunned down and killed on Friday, June 12, breaking 2 weeks of peace and calm in Belize City. Police investigation is that at around 8:00 p.m. he was visiting a few friends at #1011 Partridge Street Extension. He was leaning on his car and speaking with 2 of those friends when a man approached from behind and fired a number of shots at Williams. He was injured in the head and body, and he went down in front of his vehicle, dying shortly after on the scene. By the time the police took him to the KHMH, the doctor on duty pronounced him dead on arrival at around 11 p.m. Right now, the suspicion is that Williams may have been lured to his death by someone he was in communication with recently. He reportedly began visiting the Partridge Street residence regularly about a month ago.

PI Concludes Jason Sanchez to Stand Trial for Murder
Jason Sanchez, 19, is the man police believe shot and killed BWS employee, Emmerson Arnold, 35, on Friday, November 28, 2014 at the corner of Gibnut Street and Central American Boulevard. Arnold was heading to work at around 7 a.m. when he was gunned down by a lone gunman. Sanchez was unrepresented when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith on Friday, June 12. The prosecution presented statements from 12 people and documentary exhibits in the form of post mortem results from Doctor Estradabran and pictures of Arnold’s murder scene. Sanchez was asked if he has any alibi witness. He said yes but the person he was referring to is already on the prosecution’s list as one of their witnesses. Sanchez then said he has no one else. Chief Magistrate Smith then ruled that there is sufficient evidence for Sanchez to face trial at the Supreme Court. She committed him for trial at the October Session.

Belize advances to the next round of World Cup qualifiers
The National Football Team of Belize waltzed into the history books when it eliminated the Dominican Republic from further play it the FIFA World Cup qualifier for Russia 2018 at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan on Sunday 14 June, 2015. Still on a high from its 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic’s National Team on Thursday 11 June, 2015, at the Felix Sanchez Olympic Stadium in Santo Domingo. The National Team went into the home game at the FFB Stadium full with confidence and determination which paid off for it. The National Team jumped out to an impressive start. The Belizean National Football Team scored the 1st goal of the game when a pass from Danny Jimenez to Harrison “Cafu” Roches which found itself the Dominican Republic’s goal in the 17th minute of play for a 1-0 lead.

Shanicka Augustine captures Gold in Central American Junior Championships
The Belize Athletics Association contingent of 30 junior athletes and officials that participated in the Central American Junior Athletics Championship from June 10-14, 2015, in San Salvador, El Salvador returned home on Tuesday with 8 medals. The delegation captured 1 gold medal, 4 silver medals and 3 bronze medals. It’s worthy to note that Belize had quite a number of its athletes finishing in the fourth position. We extend congratulations to all our student-athletes that represented well in El Salvador.

Gerald Garbutt passes
The Sports Desk at the Guardian Newspaper mourns the passing of Mr. Gerald Garbutt former President of the Belize Cycling Association and a former President of the Belize City Softball Association. Mr. Garbutt passed away on Wednesday 17 June, 2015. We extend sincerest condolences to Mrs. Anita Garbutt and daughter Andrea of Kingston, Jamaica.

Breaking Belize News

BTIA claims progress at general meeting; remembers Peter Tonti
Late executive member of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) and chief executive officer of Belize Media Group (BMG), Peter Tonti, was remembered at today’s general meeting of the Association in Belize City, as the Association reported progress with its tasks assigned at the last meeting. Tonti, who […]

Former cashier charged for theft
A woman who worked as a cashier for the Ladyville Shell Gas Station on the Philip Goldson Highway is accused of stealing from her former employers. 35 year old Gaynor Richards faces two counts of theft to which she pleaded not guilty before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer. Richards […]

Maurice Felix charges upgraded to murder
Reports are that wanted accused for attempted murder 30 year old Maurice Felix turned himself in to police today. Felix was originally charged with the attempted murders of Mark Gentle and his mother Pamela Cumberbatch at their residence on Caesar Ridge Road on May 24 when two men […]

Moody’s keeps Belize bond rating stable; worries over debt
The Moody’s Investor Service on Wednesday released its outlook for Belize’s bond ratings at CAA2, with overall outlook being stable. According to Moody’s, quote, “The expectation of ongoing economic recovery mitigates the negative trends in public finances, although downside risks to the fiscal outlook remain. The risk of losses to bondholders […]

Woodrow West, Deon McCauley to play in Honduras
National team footballers Woodrow West and Deon McCauley will suit up for the Honduran side CD Progreso de Honduras, based in the central city of El Progreso. The team was promoted from the Honduran second division last year, made the top league playoffs in the opening half-season and finished sixth […]

Dominican Republic continues deportation of thousands
The Dominican Republic Government plans to resume deportations of thousands of Haitian-descended Dominicans and Haitian migrants after the deadline for them to register under the “Regularization Plan” passed yesterday, June 17th. Registering under that plan allows those who would have been subject to deportation, to be recognized as lawful immigrants. […]

Caterpillar infestation at San Estevan RC School
Officials from the Agriculture Department and BAHA are currently combating an infestation of pests, particularly caterpillars, at the San Estevan RC School campus. According to the school’s administration, since last week the problem emerged and days after, the schools buildings have been covered with the roaming pests. The issue has […]

Placencia Lobster fest 2015 is happening this weekend!
One of the most popular gastronomic events of summer in Belize is here. We are talking about the Lobster Fest activities being held in San Pedro Town, Caye Caulker and Placencia. The Placencia Lobster fest is the village’s savvy way of celebrating the opening of the lobster season and the […]

Football Players accused of match-fixing
Three members of the BDF football team have been accused of match-fixing. These grim allegations were made by BDF coach and current Jaguars Assistant coach, Charles Slusher, after the BDF/Verdes game on 29th April, 2015, where Verdes emerged victorious by a score of six to nil. Slusher forwarded a letter […]

GOB might assist Belize Jaguars in third round of the World Cup Qualifiers
The Belizean public is still in jubilation after the Belize National Football Team raised victory flags over the Dominican Republic. Celebrations have been soured however, after the Federation expressed lack of funds to prepare or participate in the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers. President of the Football Federation […]

British Empire celebrates Belizeans
On behalf of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Governor General Sir Colville Young, bestowed honors of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire to four outstanding Belizeans. The recipients were: attorney Michael Young, who received the order of Ordinary Commander for his contribution to the legal profession and the […]

Belize welcomes Israeli Ambassador
The start of the week saw the start of new relationships with the Guatemalan and Israeli communities; Manuel Roldan of Guatemala and Oren Bar El of Israel were sworn in as new ambassadors to Belize. Israel and Guatemala share a long history together; Israel provided weapons to the Guatemalan government […]

Blogs

Xunantunich part 1
Last year, I visited Cahal Pech. Mr. Jorge Can was more than willing to provide information of the developments at the site. Yesterday, tour guides of the Cayo West Association and the Cayo Tour Guides Association visited the site of Xunantunich to listen to the new developments. Under the direction of Dr. Jamie Awe, the new excavations will be conducted on several buildings that have not yet been investigated and other areas that were previously excavated by Richard Levental. The areas that will be excavated and consolidated are structure A2, A3 and A20. This will certainly change the face of the site core as it is today, but I heard a rumor that the south end of el Castillo will also be done on a later project. So we met with Mr. Jorge Can at the base of A3, where he has already done a few discoveries. In fact, he had unearthed remains of a building infront of the A3 which was built during the terminal phase likely a residence for someone just before abandonment. We see similar structure in front of A4. Today on the right side of A3 we see the round corners protruding from the earth previously consolidated in 2004, when A4 was excavated during the tourism development project. Although the A3 building had round corners, it may have been covered up by a later construction done during the post classic period. This structure did feature balustrades. We see that at Cahal Pech, Caracol, and El Castillo Building at Xunantunich also had it at the base of its stairs but it was removed because it was poorly preserved. The stairs up to the first terrace is complete, but beyond that it is missing; likely the people in the terminal phase living near the site took the bricks to build the foundation of their homes or on other projects. We see that activity all over the site. Just to the right of the balustrade there is a deposit of mostly pottery shards but certainly we can see fragments of dishes and a few vases. There is a lot of work yet to do on A3 but the the structure face is going to be excavated and consolidated. Another team will come in later to dig for tombs. What secrets will we find then and what will they find under A2 where work has not yet even started?

From resistance to rebellion
Asian and Afro-Caribbean struggles in Britain. This article is taken from the author’s book, Race, Class and the State, to be published next spring by Pluto Press. Copyright © 2015 by Institute of Race Relations. On 25 June 1940 Udham Singh was hanged. At a meeting of the Royal Asiatic Society and the East India Association at Caxton Hall, Lon- don, he had shot dead Sir Michael O’Dwyer, who (as the Lieutenant Governor of the Punjab) had presided over the massacre of unarmed peasants and workers at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, in 1919. Udham was a skilled electrician, an active trade unionist and a delegate to the local trades council, and, in 1938, had initiated the setting up of the first Indian Workers’ Association, in Coventry. In October 1945 at Chorlton Town Hall in Manchester the fifth Pan-African Congress, breaking with its earlier reformism, pledged itself to fight for the ‘absolute and complete independence’ of the colonies and an end to imperialism, if need be through Gandhian methods of passive resistance. Among the delegates then resident in Britain were Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, George Padmore, Wallace Johnson, C.L.R. James and Ras Makonnen. W.E.B. DuBois, who had founded the Pan-African Congress in America in 1917, presided. In September 1975 three young West Indians held up a Knights bridge restaurant for the money that would help set up proper schools for the black community, finance black political groups and assist the liberation struggles in Africa. Of such strands have black struggles in Britain been woven. But their pattern was set on the loom of British racism.

Everyday Life of Birds in Belize
As a birder, I draw familiarity not just from my surrounding landscape, but also from the local bird communities. In Durham, where I have now lived for two years, I make my usual walk to campus surrounded by the common suburban species: the American Robin, Northern Mockingbird, Northern Cardinal, Song Sparrows, and others. Though I have seen the birds a million times, I still find delight in watching their antics, or marvel at particularly red cardinal males. When I travel to a new place, the first thing I do is try to gain a similar familiarity with the common species of my new location. I can’t really say for sure why I do it, other than I find it fun! With that aim in mind, I had my new field guide out only moments after my husband and I touched down for an eight night stay in Belize. Belize, a small Central American country facing the Caribbean Sea, is home to over 500 species of birds. Some have ranges that reach up into the United States, but the majority would be completely new to me: life birds. When we arrived in Hopkins, our beach destination for the first five nights, I sprang out of the car in a tizzy, rapidly snapping pictures of every feathered thing I could find. Did I have any idea what they were? Nope. Partly because I was mildly overwhelmed with excitement, and partly because many were simply new species for me.

Traffic jam, road rage: And to think that I saw it on Middle Street
I was cycling down Middle Street this morning and such a strange site did I see. A traffic jam was building up there before me, so unexpectedly. What could cause such a thing in little San Pedro, I wonder. An elephant? A camel or two? A brass band playing like thunder? Like little Marcos, a fatherly warning crashes upon my head: “Stop telling such outlandish tales. Stop turning minnows into whales.” So, no less strange as it is, I decide to go with the truth instead. In front of me sit golf carts, motorcycles and bicycles — all very still Except for horns blaring, (always a thrill …). I creep forward on my cycle, past one vehicle at a time, Until by Greenhouse Grocer, I spy the perpetrator of this crime.

DANGRIGA: IVAN RAMOS RESIGNS (PART 3)
Note: I had promised to publish Part 3 of my assessment of what was happening in the Dangriga constituency from 3 days ago. I dallied because I wanted to “wrap up” this analysis but found that it is a live and on-going story and events over the weekend were of great portent to what is going to happen there in the near term, and in regards to the by-election. So while I had written most of this part, I could not conclude the analysis until I knew what had happened in terms of the candidates actually lining up and had a better idea of what was happening with the PUP decision-making. Sadly it seems there may have to be some more articles …

San Pedro’s Lobsterfest And An Interview with The Breeze – San Pedro’s Newest Radio Station
Over the past week, there has been a bit of a guerrilla marketing campaign on posts around town..Infuriatingly smart. I was dying to know what the breeze was. And then…yesterday? It was announced. OH! A radio station. Wait…what? A radio station? Hmmmm…. Being honest, I haven’t listened to the radio in…years. But I do know that the local stations in Belize (and there are only a handful of them) are listened to constantly in every kitchen, auto mechanic shop and store on the island. But this one (on the website) was billed as a radio station for expats. Interesting…

International Sources

Fifteen regional jurisdictions on EU tax haven blacklist
A blacklist of the world’s 30 worst-offending tax havens, published on Wednesday by the European Commission, includes 15 countries and territories within the wider Caribbean. The list includes various well-known havens -- among them the Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands and Bermuda -- but other jurisdictions that are commonly labelled as offshore tax avoidance hubs were notably missing. Switzerland, for example, was not named. The Commission explained that the list of 30 “non-cooperative jurisdictions” was designed only to assess non-EU members. As a result, the new register does not include countries such as the Netherlands, Ireland, or Luxembourg -- all of which are under investigation by the European competition authorities, suspected of offering “sweetheart” tax deals to multinationals.

Cal-Bel
The next schedule Cal-Bel Event is a fundraiser to help this Youth to get back up on his feet again. Mykelt Anthony is one of Belize's top Cricket Stars who have represented our little Jewel Internationally for years with an outstanding record. He is a family man who was trying to do right for his family, when he became the innocent victim of a gang shoot-out for being in the wrong place at the wrong time just doing legitimate day to day business. He is from a poor farming community in Rural Belize where jobs are scarce and money is hard to come by. He is presently laid up in a Belize Hospital hanging on and hoping that some way some how he would be able to raise the money to pay for a costly operation that would allow him to walk again. Cal-Bel is trying to help and is asking Belizeans in the Los Angeles Area to please do your best to support this Youth at our fundraiser on Saturday (See Flyer) or make a donation if you are not able to attend. Cal-Bel is a very solid, disciplined and well established Club, and we will make sure that all your contributions will go towards this most urgent and noble cause. May you be richly Blessed as You open up your hearts and give whatever you can afford. Every little bit helps. Thanks.

Were the Mayas the ultimate ancient civilisation?
Ahead of a major exhibition, Alastair Smart explains why we remain so fascinated by this magnificent, mysterious and bloodthirsty people. The trouble with the great civilisations of Mesoamerica isn’t just the sheer number of them, but the fact that their names sound so similar. From the Olmecs and Huastecs to the Toltecs, Mixtecs and Zapotecs, it can be hard, at times, telling one culture from the next. That said, two stand out above the rest, the Aztecs and the Maya – and there was always an easy rule of thumb for distinguishing them. The former were fighters, the latter thinkers. The Aztecs were the Romans of the New World, the Maya its Greeks. This line of thinking held sway for much of the 19th – and 20th – centuries, ever since US explorer John Lloyd Stephens and British illustrator Frederick Catherwood discovered a host of ancient cities, lost to the jungle and overgrown with tropical vegetation, during an expedition to Mexico and Central America in 1839. The monumental Mayan sites they helped uncover included Copan, Palenque, Uxmal, Tulum, and Chichen Itza. Now tourist hotspots on the well-worn “Ruta Maya” (Mayan trail), these were not so long ago depopulated and barely known, even by locals.

FIFA’S GOOD MOVE
It’s not all bad news from FIFA, soccer world governing body, embroiled in recent corruption scandals. FIFA’s decision to expand the 2015 Women’s World Cup, presently playing in Canada, from 18 to 24 teams was a good move and proved historical. All seven debutante teams gained valuable experience and enhanced and expanded the game, but Cameroon did more - it made history as the first African team in 16 years to advance to the second round since Nigeria in 1999. With all but two of the six groups completed in group play, two of the debutante teams have qualified for the second round, the Round of 16, with a possible third newcomer still in with a chance to move on. In Group C, Cameroon (2-0-1, 6 pts.) finished second when it rallied from a 1-0 deficit to defeated Switzerland, 2-1, and advance; defending champion Japan (3-0-0, 9 pts), which won all three matches, won the group. Switzerland finished as one of the best third-place teams and will move on to play Canada (1-2-0 5 pts.), which won Group A. China (1-1-1, 4 pts.) was second in Group A and will play Cameroon. Ecuador (0-0-3) was the other newcomer in this group and was unfortunate not to get a win despite its strong play at times.

Putting a Price on Nature
I’ve done the math, and for $1.20, you can preserve a 19-inch by 19-inch square of rainforest habitat—home, on average, to 0.000006 long-tailed macaques and 0.0000001 pangolins. All you have to do is pay a bit more for palm oil, found in roughly half of all grocery store items: chocolate bars, cereal, and lipstick, to name a few. “Most people probably consume some palm oil every day,” says David Wilcove, a professor of ecology at Princeton University. The ubiquitous stuff is squeezed from the fruit of trees whose rapidly expanding cultivation has infamously contributed to widespread deforestation in southeast Asia, and increasingly, parts of South America and Africa. In 2005, there was only one practical example of applying dollar value to ecosystem services, Guerry says, and even that was almost a decade old. In 1996, rather than build a purification plant, the city of New York decided to restore an upstream watershed in the Catskills—which provides most of the city’s water supply. Two years later, in a commentary in Nature, Columbia economists Geoffrey Heal and Graciela Chichilnisky estimated the Catskill project saved the city $6 billon. The project and the paper helped cement the idea of natural capital. Now, Guerry says, there are hundreds of stories of accounting for or discovering ecosystem services. For example, one study in the PNAS collection describes how a coastal development plan in Belize prioritizes both wildlife habitat and development revenue. In another, researchers found that environmental protection in a part of the Brazilian Amazon was associated with reduced instances of diseases like malaria among inhabitants.

EU Launches Tax Action Plan To Crack Down on Sweet Deals
The European Union's tax watchdog unveiled on Wednesday a plan for tackling corporate tax avoidance and ending the practice of sweet deals for multinational companies. The EU's executive Commission also published a blacklist of 30 countries it says are not doing enough to crack down on tax avoidance. The list ranges from Belize to Panama, European principalities like Monaco to Hong Kong and Pacific nations like Vanuatu. "These tax havens cover the five continents," said Pierre Moscovici, the EU's top tax official. He urged them to quickly adopt "agreed international standards" to fight against tax evasion. The plan aims to make sure that multinationals pay taxes where they generate profits, that tax rules in one country do not penalize others, and that honest businesses don't lose out to unscrupulous competitors. "Our citizens can no longer tolerate that certain companies, often the most prosperous, avoid fair tax contributions and that certain tax regimes encourage them on this path," Moscovici said.

Videos

Belize: Lamanai, 5min.

Belize 3, 10min.

Development in Placencia, Belize, 5.5min. This video was created in partial requirements for courses of the Water Resources Management, Coastal and Marine Resource Management and Climate Change streams at CERMES, University of the West Indies, Cavehill. It speaks to development in Placencia over time, both negative and positive impacts of this development and potential solutions to curbing unfavourable effects.

Go Pro Loyola Belize 2015 1, 3.5min.

Up Close interaction with Reef Shark in Belize 2014, 1.5min. Unedited video of a Reef shark checking out my camera (he seemed like he was looking for piece of fish on the end of my GoPro stick).

Go Pro Loyola Belize 2015 3, 7min.

Tricking Progressions | BackHandsprings Backflips, Gainers (Fails At The End), 6min. How's it going everyone This is a more progressed version of our Tricking here in San Pedro. Hope you guys like this and tell us what you think At the end of the video you will see all the fails lol so make sure that you check those out.

June 18, 2015

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

A few drinks and good laughs at the Squirrel’s Nest
Located just south of town at Matarocks resort, Squirrel’s Nest is the little beachside bar that’s so very easy fall in love with. This little thatched bar is the perfect getaway if you’re looking to escape and enjoy a few beachside drinks in a secluded atmosphere, yet relatively still close to town. Dennis and I headed over for a couple drinks on a Friday afternoon and we couldn’t get enough of the charming little nest. We were greeted by resort manager Sherilyn, who also fills in as bartender, and what a great one she is! Sherilyn was laid back and very easy to strike up a conversation with; she explained to us that Squirrel’s Nest isn’t a “fancy bar.”

ACES benefits from BWG’s monthly donation program
A $1,484 check was presented to the Ambergris Caye Elementary School (ACES) as part of Blue Water Grill’s monthly donation program. During the month of May, BWG customers donated $782, which was matched 100% by the establishment. In addition to monthly donation program funds, an anonymous donor from Houston, Texas, USA through BWG, also donated $3,000 to the school. The generous donation will go towards the school’s scholarship program for children with disabilities. “Words cannot explain how grateful we are for this donation. It will greatly benefit our island children living with disabilities. We thank everyone that donated,” said ACES. For the month of June, monies raised will go to the San Pedro Belize Red Cross to support hurricane season initiatives. “With the start of hurricane season, it’s vital that we support our local Red Cross group that does so much to help our community in times of need. And they also provide invaluable training for our island and support countless local efforts to keep San Pedro healthy,” said BWG.

Two Crocodiles relocated from Northern Ambergris Caye
The American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) removed two large crocodiles from two different resorts north of San Pedro Town. The respective establishments requested their removal after the animals allegedly became a nuisance for the businesses. Both crocodiles measured 11 feet and are now in a safer area where they are not expected to harm anyone. ACES’ mission is to safely relocate troublesome crocodiles in order to conserve the species on the island. Northern Ambergris Caye is going through large scale development, and the crocodiles’ natural habitats in this northern area are shrinking. The end result in most of these cases is crocodiles coming in close proximity with humans. On Friday, June 5th, ACES conducted the removal of a crocodile from the Matachica Resort area. The reptile was discovered while works were being done around the resort near a shallow pond. The animal was relocated to the southern part of the island. Then on Monday, June 8th, ACES once again answered the call of another croc spotting, this time at Grand Caribe Resort area. The large crocodile was removed and remains in captivity in an emergency holding enclosure.

Cleaning up the island, one campaign at a time!
We are so please to report that more and more residents are cleaning up the island. Garbage has been a major issue on the island, but now several establishments/individuals have taken the initiative to organize cleanup campaigns. These campaigns are essential to stir up a movement to keep the island clean. The Phoenix Resort is among those that have spearheaded successful cleanup campaigns. Their weekly garbage collection efforts bring together community members who clean up the beaches and core of San Pedro Town. Each Saturday, the initiative gets bigger, with more persons joining in the cleaning up campaigns. Each week a different business sponsors the cleanup by providing trash bags and gloves. “Everyone’s help is so greatly appreciated, and without it we would not be able to cover as many areas as we do around town. Again, thank you so much to all of you for your help. Without you this wouldn’t be possible to carry out each week,” says the management of The Phoenix.

Island high school students celebrate graduations!
Over a hundred students from San Pedro Town and Caye Caulker Village have completed their secondary school education, and they were proudly celebrated over the weekend. High School Commencement Exercises were held to present students with high school diplomas, as proud family and friends looked on. Caye Caulker’s Ocean Academy Class of 2015 was first to graduate on Friday, June 12th. 13 students marched to the strains of Pomp and Circumstance before family, friends and honored guests at the Caye Caulker Community Center. The Ceremony was led by Wilfredo Feliz, Poetry and Drumming teacher and English tutor at Ocean Academy. Guest speaker for the night was Katie Numi Usher, an artist working with The Image Foundation, and Heidi Curry delivered the Founder’s Speech. Leyvi Florian received top honors as class valedictorian, while Saira Reyes Ruiz was salutatorian. During the ceremony, a moment of silence was held in loving memory of Adriana Cal, a member of the graduating classed that passed away prior to the ceremony. The ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks given by Fernando Novelo. Graduates presented small gifts to parents, and a slideshow of great memories was shown.

Ambergris Today

Building a Blood Supply for San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
By helping ensure that blood is available whenever members of the Ambergris Caye community or visitors require medical attention, your blood donation may one day save a life. The San Pedro Belize Red Cross (SPBRC) has been working with the Belize Blood Bank and medical professionals of Belize to improve the communication and process for Ambergris Caye residents to receive blood in time of need. It is important for residents of Ambergris Caye to recognize that there is a blood supply allocated for all island residents and visitors. Of utmost importance is for all to recognize the necessity of the SPBRC blood drives on Ambergris Caye to keep a full supply of blood on hand at the Belize Blood Bank, Belize City. The SPBRC is working hard to increase the blood supply that is kept on reserve at the Blood Bank in Belize.

Government Gives Public Officers and Teachers an 8% Salary Increase
The Ministry of Finance is pleased to announce that public officers and teachers will receive an eight percent (8%) salary increase, totaling approximately $38 million, effective July of 2015 retroactive to April 1st, 2015. This increase in salary is separate and apart from the 2% annual increment which is given to public officers and teachers on the basis of merit. The salary increase stems from the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in February of 2014 between the Government of Belize and the unions representing public officers and teachers (PSU, BNTU, APSSMBZ). The Collective Bargaining Agreement established a framework, a part of which is a salary increase every year for three years commencing in 2014.

Costa Maya Festival 2015 Readies for Grand Pageant Night
The eight countries that compete for the coveted crown of Miss Costa Maya (Reina de la Costa Maya Pageant) have confirmed their participation for this year’s pageant. Three countries have already sent pictures and information of their chosen beauty ambassador. This week we introduce Miss Costa Rica Costa Maya delegate: Corlina On Porras, Costa Rica. Miss Costa Rica will join candidates from Belize, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Panama on Pageant Night that has been set for Thursday, August 6, 2015, kicking off Costa Maya Festival with a bang. The pageant will have a Carnaval theme with planned entertainment by the Belize Dance Company and Alma Caribena dance group from Mexico, among others.

U.S. Marine Corps, Central American Countries Participate in Multi-National Exercise in Belize
United States Marines along with 14 other Central American Countries to include Canada and Mexico, will be participating in Tradewinds 2015 from June 15-24 throughout Belize. The exercise consists of eight separate training tracks - Human Rights Awareness, Jungle, Military Support to Law Enforcement, Marksmanship, Riverine, Command and Control, Maritime, and Dive, which will take place at different training areas around Belize. All training tracks are focused on building capacity, improving interoperability, and providing Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) in security related topics among participating countries and throughout the region. Representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Barbados, and Colombia are expected to participate.

Misc Belizean Sources

Road Improvement Project in Ambergris Caye: The Key in Unlocking Bigger Investment Opportunities for Belize
Road improvement in North Ambergris Caye is unstoppable as the work continuously rolls to its second phase. The road is expected to be 7 miles of paved road that stretches from the Boca del Rio Bridge to North Ambergris Caye. The phase two of the road improvement will have a three stretching miles of paved road from Belizean Shores Resort up to the Portofino/Canary Coves’ mile 6. The paved road has been anticipated to get completed after three months from the joint venture of San Pedro Town Council and the Government of Belize. However, the GOB will be the one who will cover up the cost for paving the road. The northern road in its second phase will pave all the way to the Blue Reef Resort. But since the water systems might be affected with the road expansion, the San Pedro Town Council still awaits the Belize Water Services’ response with regards to water expansion so that they could start the project. The reason why the San Pedro Town Council got involved in this life-changing project is that they work on placing the speed bumps which will help them deter speeding on the newly constructed paved road. And if this road improvement has managed to finish on time without any hassles, probably, people living in Ambergris Caye will be ecstatic with the news as the road expansion will give them better opportunity to reach places.

Four Belizeans Bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
Four Belizeans were today bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire on the occasion of the 2015 New Year Honours. The honours were conferred by the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Attorney Michael Young received the order of Ordinary Commander for his contribution to legal profession and the community; Ms. Esther Ayuso and Mrs. Laura Tucker-Longsworth received the order of Ordinary Officers: Ms. Ayuso for her contribution to the community and women’s rights and Mrs. Tucker-Longsworth for her contribution to nursing and the community. For her contribution to community and leadership, Mrs. Bernadette Fernandez received the order of Ordinary Member. The Investiture Ceremony took place at the Belize House in Belmo

Another manatee found dead in Belize City.
This photo was posted by Manatee Researcher, Jamal Galvez, with the following caption: "Yet another dead manatee due to boat collision. This poor guy never got to grow up! Seeing the mother in the distance was sad! Manatees need help too."

https://plus.google.com/photos/111893827758236733999/albums/6161462768186973617/6161462769962727522?pid=6161462769962727522&oid;=111893827758236733999
The Giant Slayer youth rally and concert is this Saturday at Falcon Field. Mervin Budram and R1pple 3ffect will be performing. It's free, and it starts at 7:00pm. "Mervin Budram - MD and R1pple 3ffect Band are heading to Cayo on Saturday! You don't want to miss out!"

UB 2015 Graduation
Congratulations to all 456 of the University of Belize's 2015 graduates. Well done! Now, get out there and give back some of that information to the rest of Belize. The graduation list is here.

Queen of the West Contestant Search
The search is on for this year's Queen of the West pageant contestants. If you are interested, call 804-2035 or email [email protected]. Good luck!

Esperanza Animal Clinic
CELA is having a free animal health clinic in Esperanza this Saturday, June 20th, from 9:00am until noon. They'll be checking out domestic animals, and will be spaying and neutering also. Thanks, CELA! "We are staffing two animal health clinics this weekend. The one in Cayo is in Esperanza at the community center. The other is in Ladyville at the community center there. Here's the flyer for Esperanza."

Channel 7

Shot Down In Lord's Bank
There was shooting last night in the usually quiet Lords Bank Village. It happened last night at around 8 p.m. when 28 year-old Jorge Caceres was inside a wooden house socialising with several people when someone knocked at the door. When Caceres opened the door, the man on the other side attacked and shot him. Today, the police press officer briefed the media on what investigators know at this time: Rafael Martinez - Police Press Officer "On 16th June at approximately 8:46 p.m, police responded to report of a shooting incident in the village or Lord's Bank. When they arrived at that location at a house at #151 Lord's Bank, just a few feet away they saw 28 year old Jorge Caceres lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. Initial investigation revealed that Caceres was socialising at that residence at #151 Lord's Bank when apparently someone knocked on the front door. He opened it and the person and Caceres got involved in an altercation in which shots were fired and Caceres received his injuries. As a matter of fact he received injuries in the neck, the arm and of course his feet. Caceres was transported to the KHMH where he remains in a critical condition. The Ladyville police are following up on a lead, as a matter of fact they are seeking a person of interest for questioning and of course identification."

Hapless, Luckless Robber Tries to Plead Partial Guilt
Last night, we told you how a man tried to rob a gas station at gunpoint on Bullet Tree Road, but he was stopped by a brace security guard who only carried a machete. Well tonight, that man, 37 year-old Melhem Kelly, a resident of Orange Street, San Ignacio Town, is at Belize Central Prison after being taken to court. He was arraigned this afternoon in the San Ignacio Court, where he was read charges of attempt robbery, keeping an unlicensed firearm, keeping unlicensed ammunition, and wounding. Kelly pleaded not guilty to all the more serious offences, but inexplicably, he tried to accept guilt for the crime of wounding. That meant that he was basically putting himself on the scene, admitting that he attacked the Security Guard, Alexander Rios, and inflicted stabbing and cutting injuries to him. What he disagreed with in his plea, however, was that he tried to rob the pump attendant, Romeo Quiroz, and that he was armed with a loaded rusty .38 special revolver at that time.

BTB Says The System Isn't Broken, The Operators Are
Last night you heard from the independent tour operators who are dissatisfied with the system of operation in the Tourism Village. The President of the Fort George Tourism Zone Tour operators and Taxi Union, Arton Bowen told us that the freelance tour operators aren’t getting a fair share of business because the pre booked tour operators are the only ones benefiting. Today we spoke with the Director of Destination Planning and Cruise at the BTB Valdemar Andrade and he told us that it’s not the system at all – in fact he says that the tour operators agreed to this system. Andrade told us it all about the conduct of tour operators on site. He gave us an overview of the system and how it works in the favour of both pre booked and independent tour operators. Valdemar Andrade - Director of Destination Planning and Cruise "The main purpose of the standard operating procedure is we have divided up the gates to allocate people where they do business best, where they would get their better customers from at the end of the day. So at gate 1, we have pre-booked operators, at gate 2 we have independent operators, which is the taxi and tour guide association, presently Mr. Arton Bowen.

DPP Tries To Get Realistic Sentence for Convicted Man
About a year ago, we told you about Wilbert Cuellar, the man who was convicted of attempted murder, but he received a lenient sentence for very serious crime. Well, once again, the Director of Public Prosecutions has gone back to the Court of Appeal to reverse the decision of the sitting judge. As we told you, Cuellar was convicted in December of 2011 of the murder of Josue Chay, but the trial judge, Justice Denis Hanomansingh, believed it to be unjust. So, he invoked what is called “inherent jurisdiction” to set Cuellar free without serving any further time behind bars. In March 2014, DPP Cheryl Lynn Vidal challenged it at the Court of Appeal, and convinced the panel to pass an appropriate sentence for the crime. The case went back before Justice Hanomansingh, who decided that an appropriate sentence in this instance was 3 months – or time served in jail – which is what he formally delivered as the final sentence. Again, the DPP decided to appeal the judge’s decision, believing that she was compelled to do so since 3 months is not an appropriate sentence for attempted murder.

Helping Housing
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development… it’s not a ministry that regularly makes the news because as it is currently set up – the ministry exists mainly to dish out political patronage – and not to provide affordable housing. Well, we found out today that the Ministry hasn’t gotten any major donor funding, and so, their options are limited in how they serve the general public. That’s what CEO Denton Belisle told us today at workshop designed to come up with a national housing policy. According to him, this national policy will allow them to approach international funding agencies with a clear plan on how the money would be used to achieve the goal, which is to get more poor people to own their own homes. Here’s how he explained it: Denton Belisle - CEO, Ministry of Housing & Urban Development "This is a workshop which is an initial step - first step towards the elaboration of a national policy on social housing for Belize. Something which we recognise is needed at this point in time because we all know that the need for improvement in the number and the quality of housing that we have in Belize is tremendous. And so this is a first step towards the elaboration of a national comprehensive social housing policy for Belize. We have been actively involved recently in the deliberations and workshops for the SISCA. Which is the social integration system for Central America and they have a council of housing and human settlements and it based on that initiative that we came up with this proposal to develop a housing policy for Belize."

Pulled Serious Weapon On Cop In Club
Last week, we told you about 30 year-old Kareem Betancourt. He’s the man who allegedly pulled a weapon on a police officer outside a night club when he was about to be searched before being allowed to go in. Well, he’s at the Belize Central Prison tonight after being taken to court today. He was arraigned today before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer on the offences of aggravated assault, keeping a prohibited firearm, and keeping prohibited ammunition. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, and due to the nature of the offences, he couldn’t be granted bail. He was then remanded to prison until July 31. As we told you, the incident occurred on June 7. According to the police, Betancourt attempted to enter Elements Nightclub on Newtown Barracks. When Inspector Alejandro Cowo tried to search him Betancourt drew a black firearm and pointed it at the officer.

Peninsula Police Get Gun
Yesterday, Placencia Police seized a homemade firearm in Seine Bight Village. The Quick Response Team was in Seine Bight on a drug sweep, and found it in an open lot. It is believed to be a part of a homemade handgun, the rest of which was hidden at a different location. No one was present at the time, it was deposited as found property. Later that same day, the QRT received intelligence from Placencia Special Branch, and that led them to an area behind the cemetery in Independence Village. The officers searched inside a culvert, and that’s where they found this 9mm pistol with an empty magazine, which was wrapped in a plastic bag. Again, no one was found in the area, and so, the weapon was deposited as found property.

Two For GSU
The Gang Suppression Unit has also taken two more guns off the streets. They found the first one last week Friday at around 2:30 p.m. Officers of the GSU were conducting operations on Orange Street. That’s when they searched an empty lot in Taylor’s Alley, and found a black Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol. The officers believe that the weapon belongs to a member of the Taylor’s Alley Bloods Gang. The other weapon was found at around 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 13. A team of officers from the GSU were conducting operations on New Road, and they searched an open lot. They found a black and brown Luger 9mm pistol wrapped in a pink cloth and a black plastic bag, and then stuffed in a blue garbage drum. No one was in the area, so this weapon was also deposited as found property. GSU intelligence is that it belongs to a member of the Victoria Street Blood’s Gang.

Israel's New Ambassador To Belize
Four new ambassadors were sworn in on Monday in Belmopan. They include the new Ambassadors from Guatemala, Manuel Roldan and Oren Bar El of Israel. These two countries have a long history together – and, most notoriously, Israel provided arms – the famous Galil machine guns - to the Guatemalan government during its genocidal civil war. In fact, Israel became Guatemala’s main arms supplier when the United States refused to do so in the late 70’s. Those same weapons were used for sabre rattling along the Belize border. History tells us that a huge shipment of Israeli weaponry bound for Guatemala was seized in Barbados in the late 70’s. But now Israel has normalised relations with all of Central America – including Belize – and today we asked the news Ambassador what is their strategic interest. Orel Bar El - Israeli Ambassador to Belize "Traditionally speaking our priorities are mainly the cooperation and establishing good friendship. We don't have high economic or commercial interest - although I think it's important to try to develop economic ties."

Auction Action
Today, the Queen Street Police Compound in Belize City was crowded with city residents. No, it wasn’t a mass police detention; they were there for a bicycle auction. Hundreds of bikes with varying degrees of damage were on sale. Most-likely, they had been seized as part of some crime, or they may have been stolen, but the owners never came to retrieve it. So, rather than have them sitting around, taking up storage space, and gathering dust and rust, the Police Department regularly sells them off to the public at auctions. 7News stopped by and spoke with a few of the auction winners who got to leave with the rusty, damaged bike of their choice. They told us that with a bit of hard work and investment, all of these old bikes can be restored to almost brand new condition: Daniel Ortiz "Why did you pick the opportunity to come out and win this one at the auction?" Leopold Pineda - Owner of Purchased Bikes "Because I repair them and fix them up and I got it for my own use." Daniel Ortiz "It looks very damaged, how does one fix something like this to a usable state?" Leopold Pineda "I have another bike that I take off parts off it and fix it."

Track And Field Takes On Salvador
The Central American Track and Field Junior Championships were held in San Salvador over the weekend. Twenty Two young athletes represented Belize and when the event was over, Belize won a total of 8 medals – including 1 gold, 4 silver and 3 bronze. The group returned home yesterday by road – and after getting some needed rest, 7news caught up with the Athletes at the Marion Jones Stadium. Shanicka Augustine - Gold Medalist "It was a lot of competition but I did my best and I came in first in the triple jump, second in the long jump and third in the 100 metres." Monica Bodden "Tell me, were there any challenges?" Shanicka Augustine "Yes, a lot. Especially with the 100 metres because they were very fast but you just have to do your best and go all out because at the same time you are thinking about your country and bringing home so that they see Belize has talent."

Primary School Football
The 2015 National Primary School Football Championship matches were held in Belize City today. For the entire day, the district champions, went up against each other to find out who is the best football team this year. We stopped by the male games this afternoon, and spoke with one of the Coordinators from the National Sports Council about the tournament. Here’s what he told us the day’s event: At the end of the game you saw, San Pedro RC finished Third, as the representative of the Belize District. They defeated La Immaculada RC from Orange Walk. The winner of this tournament is Independence RC from Stann Creek. They defeated Mount Carmel Primary from Cayo, which now takes second place. The most valuable male player went to goal keeper Marlon Flores.

Angry About Anthem
Someday, those players may be the ones who pick up where Dion McCauley, Woodrow West, Elroy Kylen and Shane Orio left off. But one avid football fan hopes that when they play in a world cup qualifier – they will do so with a proper national anthem. Collymore says his hear sank and his coldseed beat a hasty retreat when the Belizean national anthem was cut short at Sunday’s world cup qualifier in Belmopan… For context, we do know that according to Olympic rules, national anthems cannot be longer than 80 seconds in length, which means that some countries have to work with a shortened version of their anthem.

Belmopan Park Gets Wi-Fi
The Mae Gordon park in Belmopan is the third in the capital city to benefit from a covered basketball court. But, more than that Mae Gordon will also have free wi-fi. Today, area representative John Saldivar and Acting mayor Jacklyn Burns underscored the significance:…

Excellent Belizeans
Four Belizeans received the honor of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire at Belize House in Belmopan. Governor General Sir Colville Young bestowed the order of Ordinary Commander on attorney Michael Young for his contribution to the legal profession and to the community. Esther Ayuso and Laura Tucker-Longsworth both received the order of Ordinary Officers. Ms. Ayuso was honoured for her contribution to the community and women’s rights and Mrs. Tucker-Longsworth for her contribution to nursing and the community. For her contribution to community and leadership, Mrs. Bernadette Fernandez received the order of Ordinary Member.

An Act That's Hard To Follow
Gildon Rowland is a real renaissance man. The ex-cop writes and performs poetry, and he also acts – he’s played bit roles in the recent B-Movies Poseidon Wrecks and Dragon Wasps which were filmed in Belize. And now he wants to develop his talent by attending an audition and training in the Bahamas. But he needs five grand to do it. Now, he’s not asking for a handout – he says it’s an investment:… Rowland says the audition agent is giving him a four thousand dollar discount.

Channel 5

3 Players Being Investigated by CONCACAF
For the first time in Belize’s storied football past, three players are under investigation by CONCACAF and UNCAF for match-fixing. The incredible allegation comes in the wake of a playoff [...]

F.F.B. Spent Half-a-Mil on Rounds 1 & 2
Even as that match-fixing investigation looms, the F.F.B. is coasting on an amazing victory over the Dominican Republic, and history being made as the Jaguars qualify for the Third Round [...]

Vicente Says Gold Cup Accounting Coming Soon
Vicente insists that the almost five hundred thousand dollars used between the First and Second Rounds was finances solely by the F.F.B., with no assistance from the public or from [...]

Lord’s Bank Man Riddled by Bullets
A twenty-eight year old man is tonight clinging to life at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was shot multiple times to the body on Tuesday night. Just before [...]

Military Forces Converge on Belize for Trade Winds 2015
If you see increased military activity in your neck of the woods, don’t be alarmed. It is a well organized military training taking place. Personnel from the US, Mexico, Canada [...]

DOE Damage Assessment at Glover’s Reef Completed
The assessment of damages caused to the reef by a Guatemalan vessel running aground last Wednesday has been completed. On Thursday, the preliminary dive was done by members of the [...]

Santa Clara Man Charged With Attempted Murder of His Wife
Up north, a housewife has given police a report of a horrifying experience she lived at the hands of her husband. Maria Pech of Santa Clara Village, Corozal claims that [...]

ADU Makes Million Dollar Heroin Bust in Corozal
Further up north in the village of Ranchito, the Police Anti-Drug Unit, ADU, made a sizeable bust of highly addictive and illegal drug. In operations at a house in the [...]

Placencia Police on Alert Before Lobster Fest
On Tuesday, Quick Response Team of the Police Department in Placencia conducted several searches in Seine Bight for drugs. In an abandoned lot in that community, they found what appeared [...]

GSU Clamps Down in Crime in the City
The Gang Suppression Unit also carried out operations over the weekend. On Friday afternoon, the unit conducted a search through Taylor’s Alley area and in an empty lot they found [...]

Twins Charged for Harm After Beat-down
This morning, twin sisters, Tanisha and Tenisha Bodden of Arlington Drive, Belize City were arraigned in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on a single charge of Harm. It is claimed [...]

Kareem Betancourt Remanded on Firearm Offences
Today, after being released from the K.H.M.H. having spent more than a week under police watch, thirty year old Kareem Betancourt, of the Saint Martin’s De Porres area of Belize [...]

BMI Research Says Belize’s Debt is Unsustainable
Earlier this month, BMI Research, a leader in financial information services, made public the results of a research into Belize’s existing economic state of affairs. That forecast was dismal, as [...]

Ministry of Housing Explores Social Housing Program
It’s been a while since we’ve heard of anything within the Ministry of Housing. Well, today they held a workshop in at the Biltmore where they met with partners with [...]

Housing Grants Available…But Only If Area Reps Approve
And while the establishment of the social housing policy is the latest initiative being undertaken by the Ministry of Housing in a very long time, the Ministry has long been [...]

Hand in Hand Ministries Builds Home for Lord’s Bank Family
A single father of four of the Lord Bank area, Belize District, is tonight celebrating the comfort of spanking new quarters. Aaron Garbutt and his family are moving from their [...]

Media/Sports Icon Passes
Veteran radio broadcaster and sports enthusiast Gerald Garbutt passed away today after suffering a massive stroke sometime last week. Garbutt was a mainstay in the local media for over fifty [...]

CTV3

Moody's Investor Services Grades Belize's Debts
With a debt burden which experts predict will become increasingly unmanageable in the coming years, today Moody's Investors Service has affirmed Belize's Caa2 issuer ratings and the outlook remains stable. The stable outlook on Belize's Caa2 ratings reflects Moody's ongoing concerns about public debt sustainability despite the short-term relief to fiscal liquidity pressures following the 2013 debt restructuring. Moody's says credit risks could potentially escalate by 2017-18 given that: (1) as the general election approaches, the government will find it more difficult to maintain fiscal discipline as demand for public sector wage hikes and increased social transfers increase; (2) debt service on market debt will escalate due to an increase in the step-up coupon rate - amortization payments will start in 2019; and (3) the compensation amount from litigation claims due to the nationalization of BEL and BTL could push public debt into unsustainable levels. Faced with pressures that could translate into financial stress, the possibility of a pre-emptive debt restructuring remains high through 2017 to 2018.

Belizeans Receives MBE Awards In Honor On Queens Birthday
Today at the Belize House in Belmopan, four Belizeans were bestowed the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire on the occasion of the 2015 New Year Honours. Attorney Michael Young received the order of Ordinary Commander for his contribution to legal profession and the community; Ms. Esther Ayuso and Mrs. Laura Tucker-Longsworth received the order of Ordinary Officers: Ms. Ayuso for her contribution to the community and women’s rights and Mrs. Tucker-Longsworth for her contribution to nursing and the community. For her contribution to community and leadership, Mrs. Bernadette Fernandez received the order of Ordinary Member. The honours were conferred by the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

BNTU Brings Awareness On Petro Caribe Act
The Belize National Teachers Union has said it is serious about addressing national issues in the country. In staying true to that statement, today Otilio Munoz, President of the Orange Walk Branch told us that the union has joined other concerned groups in the much debated Petrocaribe Act. Even though the act has been passed by government, the BNTU said it had to do its share to educate the public. “We are serious when it comes to national isues because as educators we ned to look at thes things because at the end of the day we as educators we are responsible for educating our children as to anything that is happening in our country.” In its quest to obtain a better and full understanding of the act and its implications, Munoz says the union got input from experts and came up with a flyer containing points to spread awareness on what the act is all about.

Corozal Police Make Heroine Bust, Four Are Detained
Four persons from the Corozal District have been charged for heroin. They are 51 year old Fermin Velasquez and 38 year old Salvadoran Domestic Alba Velasquez both of Ranchito Village, 25 year old Eber Rivera of San Joaquin Village and 51 year old Kua Liao a Chinese businessman of Mile 8, George Price Highway. The four individuals were arrested after the Police Anti-Drug Unit searched a residence near the junction of the Phillip Goldson Highway and the Maya Airstrip road where all four persons were in. There authorities found seven parcels of suspected heroin which amounted to 7, 418 grams. There were two children along with the woman at the time of the search. Police report that the four adults were taken to the police station and have been charged for drug trafficking.

Man Accused On Trying To Set His Wife On Fire
Domestic abuse, without a doubt it is a growing problem in Belize and world wide. Often at times the report is made but right after withdrawn by the victim be it male or female. And most of the times the cases go unreported due t several reason. But tonight we air the story of one woman who decided to speak out and make the report to police placing her husband in the hot seat as he now faces charges of attempted murder after he reportedly tried to light his wife on fire. Thirty six year old Maria Pech, a housewife of Santa Clara Village in the Corozal District is the one who filed the report against her husband. Pech says that on Monday, at about seven thirty in the night she was cleaning some aluminum to sell while her husband Joel Pech was asleep inside their home. When he woke up, she says he began insulting her and when she tried to go inside he began threatening her and her children. At that point, Pech says her husband came outside wielding a machete with which he lashed her on the left leg. In fear for her life, Pech ran but Joel set chase after her and reportedly threw the machete at her but missed.

BNTU Says Salary Adjustments Not Coming From Petro Caribe Funds
Teachers and public officers are receiving an eight percent salary adjustment that becomes effective in July this year and which will total an approximate thirty-eight million dollars. As reported, this is in line with the terms under the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in 2014 where GOB and unions in representation of public officers and teachers established a framework which includes salary adjustments of up to thirty percent over the course of three years commencing last year. This said the President of the Belize National Teachers Union Orange Walk Branch, Otilio Munoz, is what he wants to clarify. Munoz says he wants the public to be assured that this is an adjustment that has been agreed to by GOB and unions and that this has nothing to do with the current Petrocaribe funds that have been given much campaign in the last months.

BNTU President Speaks On Salary Adjustment And Salary Increment
Yesterday the Government issued a press release where it announced that teachers are to be receiving an eight percent salary adjustment. Today, President of the Belize National Teacher’s Union Orange Walk Branch, Otilio Munoz told CTV-3 News that teachers need to be aware that the salary adjustment is not to be confused with a salary increase. In an interview with him this morning, Munoz clarified the difference between the salary increase that teachers should also be getting this year and the adjustment that has been approved by government. “The salary adjustment is to adjust the salary of the teachers to be in par with what we called the cost of living, to be in par with and the salary increment is based on your performance as a teacher and that is where the principal goes in a does your appraisal and then based on the apprisial and his recommendation then you are to get an increment, so this is where the problem lyes whenever let us say for example many teachers started to teach in September so they should be getting an increment for the whole year which supposed to have been approved already and recommended that you need to be getting an increment so you should be getting your increment plus yous salary adjustment so it is two things and that is what I want to ask teachers to ensure that when they get their pay they check with management that they look at the salary increment and the salary adjustment as well because of nature and money you need to check if your got both of them.”

LOVE FM

Media Colleague and Past Cycling President Passes
Veteran personality in the media and sports industries passed away last night at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. Gerald Garbutt had suffered a stroke about a week ago and has since been hospitalized. Glenn Tillett, a media personality as well spoke of his time spent around and working with Garbutt. GLENN TILLET […]

Political Momentum Picks Up in Dangriga
Residents of Dangriga have seen an influx of the political machinery of the two major political parties as they prepare for the upcoming by-election in that municipality. We hear more in this report from correspondent Harry Arzu. HARRY ARZU “Ivan Ramos, who was the Area Representative for Dangriga resigned from the House of Representatives on […]

Fire Officials Say Fire Was Set on Mahogany Street House
Last night we brought you the story of Dixie Wagner and his wife who lost their belongings in a fire last Thursday night on Mahogany Street. The couple had been renting the lower flat of the two storey structure for almost eighteen months when the incident occurred. We spoke with the Station Officer of the […]

National Housing Policy – A Move Towards Social Housing in Belize
Today was the first day of discussions in creating a National Policy that will focus on charting a way forward for sustainable, equitable Social housing in Belize. The policy is expected to be completed in three months. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Michael Finnegan addressed stakeholders. MICHAEL FINNEGAN “In my view this must be […]

Gunmen Release Bullets in Rural Residence
Ladyville police are investigating a shooting incident that happened last night in Lord’s Bank. Police say just before nine o’clock they responded to a shooting in Lords Bank Village. On arrival they saw 28- year- old Jorge Caseres lying face down with multiple gunshot wounds. Caseres was transported to the K.H.M.H. where he is listed […]

Drug Bust in Northern Belize
Three men and a woman have been charged for trafficking heroin. Police say that yesterday evening, the Anti-Drug Unit was on special operations in the Corozal District which consequently led them to a residence in Ranchito Village. There they came across three men, a woman and two children. A search was conducted on the premises […]

Man Douses Spouse with Kerosene to Set Her Afire
A villager from Santa Clara in the Corozal District has been charged with attempted murder. A 36 year old housewife of Santa Clara Village reported that on Monday night, her husband, 34 year old, Joel Pech began to verbally abuse her while she was in the back yard doing some work. The woman told Police […]

PlusTV

Belizeans Arrested in Guatemala tell Their Story
Five Belizeanâ€™s, including PG Town Councilor Ashton McKenzie, have been charged for battery, in Guatemala after they were detained in Santa Cruz They had entered illegally through a route in Jalacte and arrived in Santa Cruz sometime around 3:30 pm...

Hilberto Sotz’ father says he will sue police department
Since the death of 18 year old Hilberto Sotz who died in police custody at the Cay Caulker Police Station on June 8th, two officers have been charged with first degree murder and three others have been placed on inderdiction...

Belize music industry unites for business seminar
Music is entertainment and art, but one need only look at the huge sums artists from the surrounding region rake in from concerts, television appearances and endorsements to recognize that it is also a business...

15 year old raped in church yard
A 15 year old student of Dangriga says she was raped in a church yard. The girl told police that on Monday June 15^th at 11 o’clock in the morning, she was forcibly taken into the Baptist Church compound located in the Foreshore area by a man who had his face covered...

Another teenager raped in Dangriga
There was another incident of rape reported in Dangriga yesterday, Monday June 15. According to a 16 year old female of Dangriga, she was at home when her baby’s father arrived at her home. She and the child’s father got into an argument which resulted in her being sexually assaulted...

Security guard and robber battle it out in foiled robbery
Police have detained a man who attempted a robbery in San Ignacio. Last night, Monday June 15 at about 10:05 p.m., San Ignacio Police responded to a robbery in progress at Chuc’s Gas Station located on Bullet Tree Road, San Ignacio...

Public Officers and Teachers Receive an 8% Salary Increase
The Ministry of Finance announced today that public officers and teachers will receive an eight percent (8%) salary increase, totaling approximately $38 million, effective July of 2015 retroactive to April 1^st, 2015...

Court of Appeal acquits man of attempted murder
Diondray McKoy of Belize City had a conviction of attempted murder quashed, sentence of 12 years in prison set aside and a judgment of acquittal entered after the conclusion of his case this morning in Belize City at the Court of Appeal...

Breaking Belize News

BTB Responds to Tour Operators: The system is fine; the conduct isn’t
Over the past weeks, the President of the Fort George Tourism Zone Tour operators and Taxi Union, Arton Bowen, has continuously expressed concern on the delegation of tours and distribution of tourists at the Belize Tourism Village. According to Bowen, only pre-booked tour operators are benefitting from the process, while […]

Guns Vs. Machetes – The Saga Continues
On Monday night, security guard, Alexander Rios, courageously defended a co-worker’s life against a gun-wielding robber. Today, 38 year-old Melhem Kelly of Orange Street, San Ignacio Town, is cooling his heels in prison following his arraignment on Wednesday afternoon. Kelly was taken to the San Ignacio Court where he was […]

Man charged for encounter with police
A man who menaced a police officer with a firearm and then tried to run away has been charged with aggravated assault with a firearm and keeping a prohibited firearm and ammunition. 30 year old tour guide Kareem Betancourt was read his charges before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer […]

Court to decide on sentence for convict
The Court of Appeal heard a second appeal by Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl Lynn Vidal today in relation to the sentence given to Wilbert Cuellar of Orange Walk. Cuellar was convicted of attempted murder by a jury along with Darwin Diaz in December of 2011, but Judge […]

Radio pioneer Gerald Garbutt dies
Gerald Garbutt, a founder and pioneer of free broadcast radio in Belize, died Tuesday night of complications from heart problems. Garbutt helped to found KREM Radio in 1989 and acted as its general manager in the early 1990’s, setting the template for its success in modern times. He […]

Muslims prepare to observe Ramadan
In respect of the revelation of the Muslim holy book the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad and in strict observance of devotion and obedience to God, Muslims around the world are preparing to observe the holy month of Ramadan beginning on Thursday morning, June 18. The primary feature […]

Man shot in Lord’s Bank
A man shot on Tuesday night is in critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. 28 year old Jorge Caseres was socializing at a residence in Lord’s Bank village around 8:46 in the evening when someone knocked on the main front door of his residences. He answered […]

Firearms seized in Placencia
Yesterday, June 16th on two separate occasions, Seine Bight and Placencia police have managed to remove firearms from the streets. Working off tips, Placencia’s Quick Response Team searched multiple areas in the small Village of Seine Bight and in an abandoned yard, officers found a homemade firearm which was then […]

Husband attempts to set wife on fire
A lady from the village of Santa Clara in the Corozal District is lucky to be alive after she had a violent encounter with her husband. Reports are that on Monday night around 7:30 pm, 36 year old Maria Pech, reported that she was in her back yard, when her […]

Blogs

A Brief History of San Pedro, Belize & Dia De San Pedro: Part Two
The men of Ambergris Caye were jobless (no coconut palms, no jobs) – and many left the island looking for work. America was looking for male labor (even Mito’s uncle went to work in a factory in Pittsburgh, later to return). A few joined the war effort (we were still British Honduras at that point), one or two went down to Panama to help with expansion and lock work on the canal, some went to the mainland… And after the war many returned. The lobster industry had started a bit during the 1920s and 30s…before that it was junk. A Captain Foote came to the island buying lobster for one cent a pound…later freezer boats and canning began to buy lobsters and prices crept up slowly. At one point after WW2, a man with a Catalina seaplane would fly down to the island, fill it with a few thousand pounds of lobster and fly away to Florida. Taking the lobster on concession!

Belize Eco-Kids Summer Camp Winners 2015!
Officially known as the Children’s Summer Camp Scholarship Program, this annual event gives 24 young Belizeans between the ages of 8 and 13 a chance to learn about their natural world through a mix of adventure, social interaction, and fun filled applied education – all aimed at instilling a sense of wonderment in the unique cultures that constitute Belize and the environment that sustains us all. The Eco Kids are selected after submitting a 300 word written essay which is reviewed and shortlisted by the Chaa Creek scholarship committee with the winners going on to attend the week long summer camp. Chaa Creek will be providing all lodging, three healthy meals and snacks each day, structured educational activities, arts and crafts materials, tee shirts, 24-hour camp counsellor supervision, and guided tours conducted by licensed naturalist guides.

Want to know the future of Belize? See Greece
Pay attention to what’s happening in Greece. We’ve posted about this before and things di geh dread as we say in Belize. Greece is slowly being led to slaughter house and Belize is going to the same place, Greece is at the door, Belize is making it’s way down the chute. Greece’s economy will be locked down with capital controls if it can’t find a deal by the weekend European governments are ready to push for capital controls in Greece would mean a severe lockdown on flows of cash … strict limits on the amount that could be withdrawn from banks, taken abroad physically, or passed between international accounts. slam the brakes on outflows of money streaming out of Greek banks, but it would also make it more difficult for the country to recover economically Capital controls are easy to bring in and hard to get out of.

“My Quality of Life is Far Superior Since Moving Here”
The amazing scuba diving in Belize enticed Polly Alford to start a new life in the country. ©dsabo-Istock Name: Polly Alford Age:46 From: Southeastern England Living in: Punta Gorda, Belize Before moving to Belize, Polly Alford lived a cushy life in southeastern England. She had a lucrative job with an IBM partner company, drove a […]

“I Live Simply and it’s Easy to Make New Friends”
In November 2011, Patrick Snyder made his rst trip to Belize, to visit his brother. Planning to spend a month, he stayed for seven. He then returned home, took care of his personal affairs, packed his belongings, and returned to Belize in 2012. “I like the peace and quiet in Punta Gorda, and the slow pace of life. I enjoy being right on the bay. People here are friendly. I live simply and it’s been easy to make new friends. At this point in my life, I could not ask for more.”

Belize Travel Diaries – Discovering the Beauty of the Unspoiled Tropical Paradise
Until a year before, I had only heard of all that Belize was about. White sandy beaches, lush green trees, clear blue waters, breathtaking marine life, warmhearted people and relaxed lifestyle. Now, that is history. Because only last year in summer I packed my bag and headed to Belize with some friends. I must say, that was probably one of the best decisions ever. First, because this country is truly heaven on earth. Second, it’s all true. Belize is simply beautiful. As soon as we stepped on Belizean land, the relaxed lifestyle started getting to us. It was quite an experience. Luckily, we had booked a small inn for us, since they’re super cheap as compared to 5 star hotels or resorts. So we headed out towards the small inn. Traveling on the rocky roads of Belize give a feeling of adventure. On our way, we came across street vendors selling rice and beans with potato salad, which is a staple diet of the locals. The aroma of the food spread through miles, and made us realize how famished we all were! While our first day ended travelling and settling in, the discovery in true form started the next day. To tell you the truth, I could write a book on my wholesome Belize experience, but I guess I’ll resort to just a few things to keep reader interest and keep boredom at bay! I hope I am succeeding; fingers crossed!

Backpacking Belize On A Budget
Belize has also one of the lowest population density in Central America and offers a rich variety of wildlife and nature. The lack of development, billboards and other modern world crap, makes Belize one of our favorite countries. However, its beauty comes with a heavier price tag than its neighboring countries. Even experienced budget travelers will spend more money in Belize than anywhere else in Central America, but don’t let that keep you from visiting. With careful planning and our tips below, you can significantly reduce your cost and stay within your budget. Transportation: Public buses are by far the cheapest mode of transportation around the country. Although those old North American school buses can get crowded sometimes, they are just as efficient as private shuttles and taxis. Belize is a pretty small country and a ride from east to west takes about three hours. Fares cost between $1-10, depending on how far you go.

The Breeze is “on the air” in San Pedro, Belize
If you live in San Pedro you probably couldn’t help but notice the “teasers” plastered to nearly every telephone pole on the island “The Breeze is coming.” Did they get your interest up? Well, the mystery is over and the Breeze has been revealed: It is a gringo internet radio station here in San Pedro, aimed at ex-pats and future ex-pats and people who just wish they could be ex-pats. Also described as “A classic hits music and information radio station.” The music format is ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, ’80s and ’90s with a little stand-up comedy tossed in. Ugh, I heard Henny Youngman this morning. “Take my jokes, please!” There also promises to be a sprinkling of island sounds — presumably Bob Marley to Jimmy Buffet. If you were listening around 10 a.m. today you got something like this: The Dixie Cups, “Going to the Chapel”; Wings, “Silly Love Song”; Carole King, “It’s Too Late”; Stevie Wonder, “Isn’t She Lovely”; Bill Haley, “Shake Rattle and Roll”; Leanne Rimes, “Can’t Fight the Moonlight”; Bill Haley again, “See Ya Later Alligator”; and Earth Wind and Fire, “September.” With a little Henny thrown in somewhere in the mix. The internet station intends to be advertising supported. Meanwhile, you can grab a listen right here. Scroll down the home page for some basic information, including how to add the station as a pop-up so you can listen while doing other things on the Web.

International Sources

Belize coast guard sailor still at the helm during Tradewinds 2015
Petty Officer 2nd Class Edward Lawrence, a coxswain in the Belize coast guard is still at the helm of his high powered chase boat 23 years after joining the military. One of the first Sailors to enter the Belize Coast Guard when the force was formed 10 years ago - branching off from the Belize Defense Force, Maritime Division, a branch of the military, Lawrence had already served for 13 years. "There are only about eight of us left," he said. "I think it's safe to say I'm the most experience coxswain in the Coast Guard." The 40-foot rigid-hull inflatable boat he captains is powered by three 300 horsepower engines - enough it give it a top speed of close to 45 knots. "The boat is designed to chase and capture other boats and it's something we do from time to time. Not long ago we needed the speed to capture smugglers who we found with 20 kilos of cocaine.

Moody's affirms Belize's Caa2 sovereign rating; outlook stable
Moody's Investors Service has today affirmed Belize's Caa2 issuer ratings. The outlook remains stable. The key drivers of today's rating actions are the following: 1) The expectation of ongoing economic recovery mitigates the negative trends in public finances, although downside risks to the fiscal outlook remain. 2) The risk of losses to bondholders through 2017-18 remains considerable given fiscal challenges and a confluence of risks. Belize's long-term local-currency country risk ceilings and the foreign currency bond ceiling remain unchanged at B2. The foreign-currency bank deposit ceilings is also unchanged at Caa3. The short-term foreign currency bond and deposit ceilings remain at NP (Not Prime). These ceilings reflect a range of undiversifiable risks to which issuers in any jurisdiction are exposed, including economic, legal and political risks. These ceilings act as a cap on ratings that can be assigned to the foreign and local-currency obligations of entities domiciled in the country.

Decoded: name on Mayan king’s tomb
Researchers in Mexico say they have decoded the hieroglyphic name on the Palenque tomb of ancient Mayan King Pakal, revealing it to read “The House of the Nine Sharpened Spears”, more than sixty years after the crypt was discovered. Mexican archaeologist Alberto Ruz Lhuillier discovered the burial crypt in 1948 and new research into the jaguar, a sacred animal for the Maya civilization, led Guillermo Bernal, from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), to make a link with other hieroglyphics of the same form. “This is a name linked with war and an aspect which was not previously known as the hieroglyphic (could not be) deciphered until now,” Bernal, from UNAM's Mayan Studies Centre, told a news conference in Mexico City. “'The House of the Nine Sharpened Spears' is a denomination represented by the nine warriors in the walls of the tomb.”

Videos

Belize 2015!, 3.5min. 10 days in beautiful Belize condensed into 3 1/2 minutes!

OATS - Route of the Maya - Day 12, 18min.Our last day in Guatemala........After breakfast at hotel Camino Real, we visit the Mayan ruins at "Yaxha" and had lunch at the restaurant were the TV show "Survivor" crew members also ate........ Crossed the border into Belize and continued on to our hotel in Belize City.........

Takeoff from Belize City Airport, 3min. Taking off in a United Boeing 737-800 from BZE to IAH on 6/15/15.

Landing at Belize City's Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, 6min. This was an interesting landing at Belize City's airport. It was drier than expected. However it was the end of the dry season.

Half Moon Cay, Belize 2015, 15min. La segunda parte de nuestros viaje: Half Moon Cay, Belize 2015, Gracias por su participacion en una aventura mas de Scuba Excite!!

2015 Belize, 3min. Scuba diving under the Sun Dancer II in Belize from June 7-12, 2015.

June 17, 2015

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3
Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Huge ship on reef
We were alerted to the presence of a huge ship at our beautiful reef and truly, you could not miss this behemoth. It is the USAV Brandy Military Station measuring 53meters x 10meters, and appears to have entered Belizean waters on Saturday, June 13th (according to Port of Belize logs). The vessel was seen at around 3:30PM attempting to pass the ‘Entrada San Pedro’ cut. It is now outside of the Belize Barrier Reef making its way back to Belize City. The USA Navy was in Ambergris Caye conducting a special training mission. It seems we have quite a few military vessels traversing our waters these days! We have confirmed that indeed the crew is made up of Navy officers parttaking in the United States Southern Command's Exercise Tradewinds.

Lobster Season is a Go!
Yesterday marked the official opening of Lobster season and what a grand opening it was! San Pedro fishermen brought in their highly anticipated bounty to supply a lobster-craving town! We hope there’s room for plenty of lobster in your appetite because local restaurants have already begun whipping up some of their best lobster specials! Grilled lobster tails, lobster ceviche, lobster pizza, fritters, lobster dip and so much more, we hope you’re ready! Don’t forget this coming Saturday June 20th is the annual Lobsterfest Block Party. There will be LOADS of lobster to enjoy.

Public Officers and Teachers Receive an 8% Salary Increase
Government Press Office – June 16, 2015 – The Ministry of Finance is pleased to announce that public officers and teachers will receive an eight percent (8%) salary increase, totalling approximately $38 million, effective July of 2015 retroactive to April 1st, 2015. This increase in salary is separate and apart from the 2% annual increment which is given to public officers and teachers on the basis of merit. The salary increase stems from the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in February of 2014 between the Government of Belize and the unions representing public officers and teachers (PSU, BNTU, APSSMBZ). The Collective Bargaining Agreement established a framework, a part of which is a salary increase every year for three years commencing in 2014. Last year public officers and teachers received a six percent (6%) salary increase. The Government of Belize appreciates all public officers and teachers and the level of service they provide to the general public.

Belize Jaguars dominate Dominica Republic in 2nd round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
The Belize National Football Selection captured an impressive victory over the National Football Selection of Dominican Republic in the second round of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup Qualifiers. With a score aggregate of 5-1, the Jaguars managed to win both home and away games, making their country very proud indeed. The results of the two part game series eliminated DR from the competition and is allowing Belize to continue their journey on the road to World Cup Russia 2018. The first match was an away game for the Jaguars on Thursday, June 11th and was played at the Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez in Santo Domingo at 2PM. The Belize team quickly took control of the game with Belize’s star forward, Deon McCauley scoring the first goal in the 11th minute. The Jaguars controlled the entire first half of the match, not allowing DR a single chance to score. Unfortunately the ball slipped past Belize goalkeeper Shane Orio in the second half, tying the game 1-1. But the Jaguars were determined to bring home a victory! In the final minutes of the game, McCauley took control of the ball once more and scored his second goal, securing the 2-1 victory.

Justice for Sotz family
The Caye Caulker Police Department (CCPD) is under new command following the arraignment of two and the interdiction of three, police officers due to police brutality which led to the death of an 18-year-old. Police Constable (PC) 628 Leonard Nunez and PC 819 Hallet King were jointly charged for the murder of Hilberto Sotz on Wednesday, June 10th by Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith. Sotz died under police custody on Monday, June 8th, and this led to a full on investigation of the department. In addition, Woman PC 1107 Bernadette Ramos, PC 1932 Edilberto Patt and former CCPD Officer in Charge, Corporal Kirby Palma, were placed in interdiction as investigations revealed they were on duty at the time of the incident. A candle light vigil was held on Wednesday, June 10th to honor the life of Sotz. Residents from both Caye Caulker and San Pedro converged at the Caye Caulker community basketball court in a show of solidarity against police brutality. “I have known Hilbert for so many years. He was a student at the school where I was principal. It really saddens me. He doesn’t deserve this. God is control and my people I want to ask you to be peaceful. We need to send out a message out there that we are tired of this, and that violence is not the way to go,” said Deputy Chairman of Caye Caulker, Enelda Rosado.

The Belize Mexico Channel- a Maya creation!
San Pedro Town is often considered as one of the most unique destinations in Belize. The local community is rooted with both Mestizo and Spanish traditions, as many of the first settlers are originally from Xcalak, Mexico. But it’s not only the culture that is common, we also share a border! Yes, a border! The only thing that separates Belize and Mexico is a narrow channel within the Rio de Cantena. The channel is believed to have been dug out by the Maya to provide a trade route from the Bay of Chetumal, Quintana Roo to the Caribbean around 600 A.D. Evidence of this theory can be seen in the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve, which contains several unexplored Maya sites- after all, the entire Ambergris Caye can be considered an Archeological Site. Apparently, Ambergris Caye was a large trading post for the Mayas. Civilizations in the Yucatan peninsula used the channel to get Chac Balam (the Maya ruins that lie within Bacalar Chico). Chac Balam was a very important Maya trading center for everything from salt and food to jade, obsidian, and pottery along the Caribbean coast. From there, goods were distributed to the about 19 known Maya Sites across Ambergris Caye, most of which are unexplored.

San Pedro, Belize to benefit from study of at risk populations
The San Pedro neighborhood of San Mateo on Ambergris Caye, Belize has been identified as at risk by the Belize Red Cross Society. Flooding caused by tropical storms and hurricanes coupled with insufficient water and electric infrastructure has resulted in increased risk of fire and spread of disease. Belize Red Cross Director General, Lily Bowman suggested the area as the focus of a June 13-21, 2015 survey and research project, being made possible by Florida State University Emergency Management and Homeland Security Program (FSU EMHS).

Ambergris Today

Renown Interior Designer Adds Magical Touch at Mahogany Bay Village
With over sixty acres of property, Mahogany Bay Village is one of the largest developments on Ambergris Caye and is steadily moving forward with a grand opening next year that has residents curious as to the full scope of the development. The resort boasts in becoming a new evolution in resort community living, infusing advanced modern amenities, a rustic-chic style and lively ambiance with unforgettable Belizean hospitality, culture and charm. Once completed the property will feature private residences, a four-star hotel, bay and beach club, spa, restaurant, bars, business center and even a general store. Mahogany Bay Village is quite possibly the largest development on the island, employing close to 200 Belizean employees. There is a team of workers out in the Cayo District, Belizean craftsmen who are in charge of producing all the woodwork and furniture being placed into the project. British colonial stylings include rustic furniture with high ceilings, Belizean hardwood finishings and living spaces reminiscent of old British architecture with a touch of modern island style.

Misc Belizean Sources

Second quarterly Blood Drive of 2015 in San Pedro
In an ongoing effort to build our blood supply for Ambergris Caye Residents and tourists, the San Pedro Red Cross has teamed up with Belize Blood Services for our second quarterly Blood Drive of 2015. Saturday, June 27th at the San Pedro Poly Clinic ll from 9:00am - 3:00pm. During the blood drive, we will have volunteers out directing people to donate blood as well as taking donations. Thanks for your continued support. San Pedro Belize Red Cross

ON JUNE 28 Come and SUPPORT JAZMINE CAMPOS of Corozal Town!
Courtesy Corozal Bay Sailing Club! It is still not late to donate!

Power interruption 8:30am to 1:30pm, Friday, June 19, Cayo and Belize Districts
Affected areas: portion of George Price Highway from its junction with George Price Boulevard at Mile 46 to Mile 30, including Cotton Tree, St. Matthews, More Tomorrow, Franks Eddy, Mahogany Heights & La Democracia. BEL to sleeve high voltage lines, repair lightning arresters & replace angle structures on the power distribution system in the area.

A Painted Conversation Group Painting Sessions
You can help out with the upcoming Cayo mural. They have a Google calendar set up online. They just finished painting a lot of butterflies. They are working in the old Cafe Sol building, right next to the new Ice Cream Shoppe(which has the best ice cream in the world).

Business Plan Development WORKSHOP
The overall objective of this training is to equip our clients with knowledge, skills, and capabilities necessary to develop their business plan. The purpose of this workshop is to help participants understand what the elements of a business plan are. The time constraints of the session, and sensitivity of private client information, do not allow the participants or the facilitator to actually draft any component of the business plan during the workshop. However the workshop instead should be lead as a brainstorming session to allow participants to be thinking of what would be included in their specific plan. Then later they would write their business plan using the ideas generated during this workshop. Therefore the class should be very informal and mostly discussion based. The manual provides pointers, but it is up to the participants to come up with their own specifics. Trainer should actively engage the participants throughout the workshop to be sharing ideas and thinking of how each element of the business plan comes into play in their specific business. PRICE: FREE ** NOTICE ** Workshop location will be at La Inmaculada Credit Union in Orange Walk. University of Belize, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, West Landivar Telephone Number: 501-223-3195

Caribbean Villas Hotel to Host the Biggest LGBT Pride Event in Belize History
A ground breaking LGBT Pride event will be taking place on the Caribbean island of San Pedro, Belize from Saturday September 5th to 12th at the Caribbean Villas Hotel, an all-inclusive private beach resort. Caribbean Villas Hotel (CVH) will be hosting the first annual Temptation Island Pride Week, an exclusive event with nightly activities such as Drag Shows, Toga Parties, Leather & Lace Parties, a Masquerade Ball, Runway Model Shows and more. As this event will be the biggest LGBT gathering in the history of Belize CVH has set aside all 61 of their rooms in order to exclusively accommodate event attendees.

Free Movement of People in the SICA Region
Consultation workshop for a strategy to improve regional market access for MSMEs and free movement of people in the SICA region. The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) has been working on the development of Belize’s MSMEs competitiveness as they represent a high contribution on employment and economic development in Belize. Our aim is to improve the MSMEs position in the market and take the opportunities that the regional market gives. The objective of this workshop is to present the results to the Board of Directors of SIECA, CENPROMYPE and SITCA in order that the recommendations will result in initiatives that promote the use of economic integration and trade, particularly for small businesses of the region.

Expression of Interest: Participate in the 2015 edition of the HAVANA INTERNATIONAL FAIR (FIHAV)
Caribbean Export would like to invite interested CARIFORUM firms to submit applications to participate in the 2015 edition of the Havana International Fair (FIHAV) 2015 in Havana, Cuba from November 2nd to 8th 2015. FIHAV is the most important general trade fair in Cuba. This year will be the 32nd year that show has been convened. All sectors of the Cuban economy takes part in this event, which succeeds in putting together the most complete national and international trade exhibition in a space that enables exhibitors and visitors to establish commercial contacts, close business operations, exchange experiences and update in new technological developments.

Commentary: The political blitz in Dangriga will increase tensions and could become violent
By Wellington C. Ramos. When PUP representative Ivan Ramos resigned his seat from the House of Representative, their leader Francis Fonseca and the members of the People's United Party were caught off guard. Why? Because they looked at Ivan Ramos as a faithful, loyal and dedicated PUP who will continue to abide by their instructions. Little did they realize that Ivan Ramos also has families and supporters who were watching the way the People's United Party was disrespecting him over the years. They were telling him: "Ivan you need to do something about how these people from Belize City are disrespecting you, your family and supporters.” This disrespect was displayed when they asked him to come to Belize at their press conference to give our people and the country the impression that he was in support of having Anthony Sabal replace him. I watched that fiasco press conference and so did many other Belizeans and it was clear to me from what Ivan Ramos said that he was not happy with his party for conducting a political coup against him. Most of the people who he thought were his friends for years, he found them to be his frienemies. He went back home and then said, they think I am a fool, I will teach them a lesson. His resignation was a lesson that they were not prepared to take in Dangriga Politics-101.

Honduras Progreso tiene en la mira a dos beliceños
Belize Football stars West and McCaulay to Honduras? It may very well be because there's a Honduras professional Football Team that is knocking on their doors. Nothing has been finalized, but talks are underway! McCaulay presently holds a record, along with six others, for the most goals scored at this stage of the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers. West’s achievements on the pitch have also not gone unnoticed. While the Belizean standouts have been touted for their athleticism on the home front, C.D. Honduras or Honduras Progresso, as the team is also known, currently plays in the Liga Nacional de Honduras and is looking to expand its roster by adding two of Belize’s finest. It is a dream that, according to FFB Executive Marlon Kuylen, every player aspires to. He told News Five that while the team is wooing both players, contracts are yet to be signed if the deals are favorable.

NURTURE OUR ENTREPRENEURS
Here is a great opportunity for Corozal businessmen and women to link up with the Chetumal Chamber of Commerce and Tourism to open dialogue for business opportunities. All business people are invited to attend. (See contact number below) The Embassy of Mexico and the Chetumal Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism (CANACO SERVYTUR CHETUMAL) embark of a special TOURISM and COMMERCIAL MISSION to be held this Thursday Jun 18th, 2015 at the Institute of Mexico in Belize City, Corner Newtown Barracks/Wilson Street. The trade mission will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A Chetumal delegation of entrepreneurs will be participating and open to dialogue.

Corozal Rotary Club humbly accepts gift from Canada Rotarian!
Jim Miller, Rotarian from Hillsburoh, Ontariao, Canada has gifted a plaque to our Club to announce our meeting time at the Hok'ol K'in Hotel/Restaurant in Corozal Town Belize. The Club members are posing with the sign and Fred Oreo is holding it up for a better view of it. Thanks Jim! The Hok'ol K'in has agreed to mount the plaque outside the conference room, so the public will know where and when we meet.

BEL Vacancy
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for the post of Messenger in the Executive Services Department.

Spartacus Rehabilitated
Feelgood news of the day! A happy ending to the long journey of the rescued howler monkey, that had a severed hand. Spartacus, after many years at Wildtracks, and a few surgeries at the Belize Wildlife Referral Clinic, is being released, along with his mate, Jenny. Dr. Isabel Ford credits Spartacus as being the patient that inspired her to open the BWRC as a fully operational veterinary clinic. Thanks to all, and congratulations to Spartacus. "Spartacus, found on the ground at night in a rainstorm at Hickatee Cottages in Toledo District, a bedraggled 4.5 month old baby. His left hand was nearly severed, and he was rushed through to Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic, where he was patched up and put on the road to recovery. His wrist has needed another operation since then, but he is now fully recovered and assessed as being ready for life in the wild, with Jenny"

Sensational Belize Video Competition
Oceana is having a video competition for the Belize International Film Festival. The prize is $1000, and the deadline is July 3rd. The winner will be announced at the BIFF. Good luck! "The Belize Intenational Film Festival and Oceana invite you to take part in this year's video competition!"

Rotary Orthopedic Clinics
Rotary is having their annual orthopedic clinics around Belize starting next Monday, when they’ll be here in Cayo at La Loma Luz and Western Regional. Thanks, Rotary! "The Rotary Club of Belmopan hereby notifies the general public of our annual orthopedic clinics across the country. Please see the flyer for additional details regarding dates and times."

DEVELOPING THE POTENTIAL OF BELIZE'S MUSIC INDUSTRY
NICH, through the Institute of Creative Arts, has embarked on formulating a five year plan to develop the music industry in Belize. Since April of this year, an international consultant has been meeting with key stakeholders of the music and entertainment industry, including artists, promoters, government bodies and independent groups, in an effort to document critical areas that are lacking, as well as strengths that must be developed and utilized. Since the consultations, one thing is clear, Belize has unique selling points, but what we lack is turning our industry in a fully fledged business. Today, at the Belize Music and Entertainment Industry Development Initiative project, Lloyd Stanbury explains the key findings.

Belize Bird Rescue Fundraising
We only have 14 more days to reach our first goal of 40 donors contributing a total of $5000. This will earn us a permanent place on Global Giving so we can advance with our Nursery appeal. We are at just over $3200 now from 18 separate donors (bless you all!!!) But maybe there's another 22 souls out there that could help us with the additional $2000...

Channel 7

Machete Wielding Watchman Wards Off Gun Toting Robber
Last night in San Ignacio, a dramatic scene played out when a man went to rob Chuc’s Gas Station on Bullet Tree Road. When police responded, they found the 28 year old security guard in the drain fighting off an armed robber. So what made a watchman with a machete bold enough to take on a robber with a loaded 38 pistol? That’s what Daniel Ortiz asked him today:… Romeo Quiroz - Pump Attendant "I was sitting down on my chair waiting and from there, when I took a glimpse at my side I see the man point a gun at me - a revolver. What I did is not to approach him but to stay behind the pump. Then I called the watchman and the watchman approached him immediately and thing being to wrestle down and we tried to catch him down until the police arrive." Alex Rios - Detained the Armed Robber "He point to the man and tell him give me all your money or you will die. But when he do so and look at me and I was trying to run to the man and the man run to the fence and like he knew the place good and touch the fence and he bounce back and I was close to him and I caught him, bam! Knocked him in the face and he dropped to the ground. When he dropped to the ground I grabbed him by his two hands. When I grabbed him by his two hands he took out a knife for me to let him go, but I no let him go. Then we rolled and we dropped in the drain. In the water he took out the knife again and cut me."

Border Watcher Wil Says Guatemalans Systematically Stepping Up Hostilities
Yesterday 7News travelled to Punta Gorda to hear first hand the account of five men who were detained by the Guatemalan Army when they went across to Santa Cruz, Guatemala. The narrative they shared is quite stunning: they were targeted for arrest, and then roughed up, abused and threatened with death – made to run four miles with army rifles trained on them. The ordeal culminated in a guilty plea at a San Luis Petén courtroom and a fine for what they say is a bogus charge or disorderly conduct. Today, Punta Gorda politician and border activist Wil Maheia told us it is a shocking story – and one that sends ominous signals to Belmopan:… Jules Vasquez "Having heard their story which is a quite surprising story." Wil Maheia - PNP, Border Activist "Shocking! Let me tell you Jules and you ask anybody in Punta Gorda - these guys are respectable guys. One of them I'll even vouch for the UDP councillor knowing I'm a PNP. He's a decent young man and the other guy that was with him, Mr. Martinez and Mr Romero - they are decent young men. I could tell you that nobody in Punta Gorda Town could say they have ever seen these guys drunk and disorderly. I mean it's unfortunately they targeted these guys. I am even wondering if they stood out; because they are two black guys who stood out and were probably the only guys that stood out in the amount of people that were visiting at the time. The military being the Guatemalan military, always wanting to show itself decided - well we will just have some fun this weekend.

PUP On The Ground In Griga Dang, Playing Catch Up
The PUP is on the ground in Dangriga town – and has been since Sunday. That’s what Leader of the opposition Francis Fonseca told us today via text message today when we requested an interview. After making an assessment of whether it would contest the seat, the party is now throwing its energetic support behind candidate Anthony Sabal – who, last we checked, had not been officially endorsed as Standard Bearer. Presumably that will happen sometime soon, but right now the Opposition has to try and recover ground that was lost, first, with the divisive departure of former area representative Ivan Ramos, and , second, with the delay in the commencement of a campaign that started seven days late.

Teachers, Public Officers Get Their Raise
Government today sent out a press release announcing that the 8% increase for teachers and public officers will come though as promised in July. It’s retroactive to April and is going to cost the public purse 38 million dollars, every year, and is in addition to the 6% increase from last year – which cost about 29 million dollars. In addition to this increase, public officers and teachers also qualify for their 2% annual increment. And that’s not the end of it, the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in February of 2014 between the Government of Belize and the unions calls for a salary increase every year for three years commencing in 2014.

Appeals Court Sets Shooter Free
23 year-old Deondray McKoy was serving a 12 year sentence after being convicted in November 2013 of attempting to murder Everald Gray. That’s up until today when he successfully appealed his conviction and actually managed to convince the Justices of Appeal that he should be acquitted. Viewers may remember that in his trial before Justice Troadio Gonzalez, the victim, Gray took the stand and recounted how he got shot. When it was time for him to identify the assailant, he told the court that he couldn’t see the shooter clearly because light in front of his house kept flickering. He never did positively identify McKoy as the shooter in the trial. Also, during his testimony, he told the court that he didn't want to continue with the case. That forced the prosecutor to treat him as a hostile witness who was not cooperating with the case. Despite the turn of the events, and the fact that McKoy provided an alibi, the jury convicted him of the offense.

Remanded For Alleged Sex With Teenager
Nineteen year old Daniel Bradley, a resident of Lord’s Bank, is at prison tonight after he was taken to court for a charge of unlawful sexual intercourse today. The incident occurred on June 8. The complainant, a 14 year old girl, accompanied by her mother, went the police station and reported that Bradley had sex with her. When he appeared today before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser, no plea was taken because the offence is indictable. The court also couldn’t offer him bail due to the nature of the offence, and so, Bradley was remanded into custody until July 16.

Tour Operators Tell All
A week ago we told you about the disgruntled terminal 1 tour operators who were complaining about loss of business. According to them, the doors for terminal 1 were closed on Tuesday morning, June 9th around 9 and tourists were being directed towards terminal 2 instead. Well, today we have more from the tour operators – this time it’s the president of the Fort George Tourism Zone Tour operators and Taxi Union, Arton Bowen – he is saying it is way more than just these issues at the terminals; it’s the overall system of operation at the tourism village that’s unfair. Arton Bowen -President, Fort George Tourism Zone Tour Operator and Taxi Union "In terms of the issue affecting us directly as a union, there are several issue affecting us and one of the main issues is that we've been appealing to the BTB, to the police. And the last time we made an appeal to even the minister to try to assist us in putting a system in place that is fair for everybody and so tourist can enter in a move friendly environment but the thing is tha - truthfully speaking we've been in over 10 meetings venting our concerns upon the same issues but nothing has been done to address these issues. The last meeting that we were in was actually had a meeting with the top brass in the tourism police unit and we were assured that steps would be taken to solve these problems but nothing was done again. Given that the people doesn't have a pre-booked tour with these people, we're all considered freelance - it is the tourist when they come out decide who they want to go with.

Memory of Fire Haunts Family
A woman and her husband are staying at her boss’s house after all their belongings were destroyed in a fire. On Thursday night at around midnight, the couple was awakened by a neighbour banging and shouting at the widow of their Mahogany Street home in Belize City. The jumped out of bad to find smoke billowing out of their house. Today we spoke to the couple and they told us that they have no idea what started the fire and are looking for answers. Dixie Wagner - Fire victim "About 9:30 I gone bathe and after that I gone sleep. So, about 2 hours after that I hear somebody shouting my house is getting burn up. So I get frightened and I hurry wake up her to come out of the house and when I gone into the next room, I see the big fire high already so I can't do nothing. All that I do is close up the gas tank and take it out. We want to know how the fire was caused, because I don't see the fireman and they are telling me how it was caused. We lose 2 bed, a stereo, washing machine, all of our clothes got burned up and stove got burned up.”

Will Coach Jorge Stay With the National Team?
Even today, 48 hours after the Belize National Football Team played the game of its life at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan – Belizeans are still on a high from witnessing the masterful performance. High…and hopeful that the success can continue. To hear the assistant coach and the players tell it, a lot of that success depends on the stability of the system that Brazilian Head Coach Jorge Nunez has instituted. He’s shy, laid back and only speaks broken English – so you’ll rarely see Coach Nunez in the spot light. But on Sunday night at the game he spoke to Fredy Cantialiano in the rain. Fredy asked him if he will be staying with the team:… Fredy Cantillano - Reporter "Do you see yourself in the future in the national team? And to what extent do you see yourself working for the national team?" Jorge Nunez - Head Coach, Belize National Football Team "We all know of our financial difficulties, we are not a federation that has a hold of a lot of moneys, but when I accepted to train the national team, I stated that I would work within the national team system and the federation system, I will work with whatever there is, we can work with what is needed, but we will work with what we have. Slowly we will be better, and the national team begins to have a high level of football, that’s where the money will start to come; for now we need to continue work hard and have patience, and be humble. We have not won anything yet, we have just gone from the second to the third round, but no doubt we must continue working. From now I’m inviting the young player, with talent of course, whenever they are called to come to the training, that’s the only way we will continue to change. We have well balanced team, with well experience players, mixed with young ones, and that is very important."

Teenager Raped In Church Yard
Police are investigating the rape of a 15 year old student in Dangriga. Yesterday morning at around 11:00, the 15 year old girl was heading over to meet her father who has a stall at the market in the Foreshore area in Dangriga. But on her way to the market, a man grabbed her and forced her into the Baptist Church compound nearby and raped her. A medical examination conducted certified that she had been raped. The man’s face was covered and police are interviewing people in the area who might have seen something. And in the same Foreshore area, another teenager was sexually assaulted – this time by the father of hew newborn child. Yesterday evening at around 7:30, the 16 year old was at home with her 3 month old baby when the father of the child came by her house with supplies for the baby. But while they were talking, he tried to take her clothes off – she resisted and then he attacked her. She had bruises around her neck and abrasion to her knee. The father has been detained pending charges of harm and sexual assault.

Belize did Complain to OAS
At the top of the newscast we told you how the government of Belize had not sent any formal letter of protest to the Guatemalan Government about the Santa Cruz incident where five Belizean men were targeted for arrest, and then roughed up, abused and threatened with death – made to run four miles with army rifles trained on them. And while nothing ahs been sent form Belmopan to Guatemala City, during this newscast, we have learned that a letter was sent to the OAS on Monday. The letter notes, quote, “there are serious concerns arising from complaints that have been received from these citizens of Belize of their alleged mistreatment and abuse at the hands of officials of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, and by the alleged false charges brought against them.” The letter also notes that OAS officials helped in securing their release.

Where In The World Is Santa Cruz?
So, those of you who haven’t been there must be asking what’s the deal with this Santa Cruz village that’s suddenly at the center of the this national discussion? Well, 7News went there in December 2008 – that’s 7 and a half years ago – and since then, a lot has changed, but the basic setup is the same, and so are the tensions. We revisit Jules Vasquez’s story:… http://www.7newsbelize.com/sstory.php?nid=19089&frmsrch;=1 Since then the main change has been the road to Jalacte which is now paved – only increasing the two way traffic across the unregulated border point.

The Message Is In The Music
In mid-April we told you about the Belize Music and Entertainment Industry Development Initiative. It focuses on addressing myriad issues crippling Belize’s music industry. During the 1st phase – stakeholders met and compiled a list of issues with business management at the top of the list. But among the major setbacks is the subpar quality of music produced in Belize. Today, producers, promoters and other key players in the industry met at the House of Culture to further engage artists in this musical movement. One of the coordinators discussed the opportunities available for Belizean artists to advance their musical career and the overall vision for the initiative. Jackie Castillo - Belizean Artist: "So we are going to be having 4 days of workshops. Today is the first day at the house of culture, it's a public forum. We don't have as much representation from the artist community which is a bit disappointing because everybody else here is able to give their feedback on the recommendations that need to happen. I hope over the next couple of days we have the Belizean artists coming out so that they can voice their opinion. Blackberry is here and I have to commend him because he's really committed to the process. There is an entertainment lawyer here, Debra Wagnon that has an amazing opportunity with the university of Tennessee. She is bringing 12 music business producers, sound engineers and other people involved in the music industry - 12 students in Belize.

Rachel, Still Strong After Decades Of Doing It
If persistence and commitment is the mark of the artist – the Rachel Heusner has it. We’ve been reporting on her art work since the mid 90’s – and since then, she’s stayed true to her calling, constantly refining her craft. Tonight, she’s back with another display at the Belisle Art Gallery. This is her first exhibit in three years in Belize and features paintings from her collections of scenery and landscapes. Today 7news stopped by to check out the display. The exhibit opened on Monday night and will run for one week only at the Bliss.

Channel 5

Guatemalan Vessel Had ‘Sovereign Immunity’
On Wednesday, Guatemalan gunboat GC-651, Tecum Uman, allegedly suffered mechanical difficulties and crashed into the reef just off Middle Caye in the Glover’s Reef system. By Saturday morning, it was [...]

Wil Maheia Says G.O.B. Needs To Step Up
That explanation by C.E.O. Wallace will likely do little to quell anti-Guatemalan sentiment, especially after two very hostile encounters recently with Guatemalan military. Just over two months ago, thirty-seven Belizeans [...]

….Says Belizeans Now Afraid to Go to Border
Maheia is also very vocal on another, more recent issue – as recent as this weekend. Five Belizeans are claiming that they were detained by Guatemalan military in Santa Cruz [...]

P.U.P. Will Contest Dangriga Bye-Election
In political news…The People’s United Party decided over the weekend to contest the bye-election set for July eighth in Dangriga. Last week, the party met and coming out of that [...]

But Fonseca Says Finances Limited
Today, Fonseca was on the ground in Dangriga, and we are told that the call has gone out to all Standard-Bearers to rally the troops and report for duty. Passion [...]

Do you support G.O.B.’s release of the Guatemalan gunboat?
And our question for tonight is: Do you support G.O.B.’s release of the Guatemalan gunboat? Send your comments and responses using your SMART phones to 8686 or post your vote [...]

Honduran Team Courting McCaulay and West
Across the regional football community much has been said about the illustrious careers of star striker Deon McCauley and goalkeeper Woodrow West. McCauley presently holds a record, along with six [...]

So What’s Next for the Belize Jaguars?
What’s next for the Belize Jaguars as they head into the third round of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers? Well, that’s what we asked F.F.B. senior executive Marlon Kuylen today. [...]

F.F.B. Paid Stipend to McCaulay
In mid-April, the Football Federation of Belize took a hard line position not to sponsor Deon McCauley’s return to the Jaguars, but an ad-hoc team of supporters banded together to [...]

G.O.B. Vs the Bar – Judgment Reserved
Almost never has the Court of Appeal been put in such a dicey position as they were this week in respect of a case concerning the overturning of constitutional amendments [...]

Battle Hinges on Independence of the Judiciary
President Mottley resigned in 2010 while Morrison stayed on until April of this year. Their colleagues on the court at the time, now-President Manuel Sosa and Denys Barrow, were given [...]

McKoy Walks After Appeals Court Quashes Sentence
Diondray McKoy was convicted in November 2014 for the attempted murder of Everald Gray. He was sentenced to twelve years in prison after being found guilty of shooting Gray multiple [...]

EMTs Train in Belize City
About four hundred and fifty technicians are trained to provide emergency medical services throughout the country via BERT, the Belize Emergency Response Team. Their skills on how to manage an [...]

Teachers & Public Officers to get 8% Increase in Salaries
Just before six o’clock this evening the government announced that public officers and teachers will receive an eight percent salary increase. The package according to the government release represents about [...]

MSME Workshop Launched
A national consultation workshop on the proposed strategy for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to benefit from the legal instruments of SIECA was held today in Belize City. The initiative [...]

Initiative Faces Logistical Challenges
According to Ocampo, there are several logistical challenges that the initiative is faced with, including the harmonization of participating countries. Fernando Ocampo, Consultant, CENPROMYPE “The huge challenge here is coordination, [...]

NICH to Formulate Plan for Music Industry
NICH, through the Institute of Creative Arts, has embarked on formulating a five year plan to develop the music industry in Belize. Since April of this year, an international consultant [...]

Can Music be a Business?
The feedback from this week’s event is expected to be included in the five year plan. And that plan will be assessed, as the consultant says that he will be [...]

CTV3

Teachers And Public Officer To receive 6% Salary Increase
Late this evening, the Ministry of Finance announced that teachers and public officers will be receiving an eight (8) percent salary increase effective July 2015 retroactive to April 1st, 2015. The increase, says the Ministry, will total approximately $38 million and is separate from the 2% annual increment which is given to public officers and teachers on the basis of merit. The salary increment stems from the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in February of 2014 between the Government of Belize and the unions representing public officers and teachers among them the PSU and BNTU. The Collective Bargaining Agreement established a framework, a part of which is a salary increase every year for three years commencing in 2014. It is of note that last year, public officers and teachers received a six percent (6%) salary increase.

FFB Cash Trap, Will Team Jaguars Be Able To Play For The Third Round
After an excellent performance on Sunday against the Dominica Republic, the Belize Jaguars are looking stronger than ever. Hopes are high for the upcoming 3rd round of the 2018 CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers as the Belize team has grown even more confident and is performing better than ever, but will the Jaguars have the funding they need to travel for away games? That is the black cloud the team is facing as the Football Federation of Belize, FFB has announced that it does not have the funds to send the team on anymore away games, as the trip to the Dominican Republic cost over a hundred thousand dollars. So what’s the plan? According to Ruperto Vicente, President of Football Federation of Belize, Belizeans must unite as a country, support the national team and make history. Ruperto Vicente – President of Football Federation of Belize “Money is always a serious thing, there is always a question mark on that because to keep a national team and to have a national team going it takes a lot of money, this national team to get it to where it is it has cost us $8000.00 per week to; to keep our players and to feed them and to take good care of them, for these two rounds that we participated in it has cost us over BZ$400,000.00 it is an expensive venture and it is not an easy thing and so we have to be able to depend on the business community and on the population to carry this team out remember that this is not the FFB team, this is the national team, it is going to take all of us, it is going to take all of our effort to get this team forward and to move on.”

Woodrow West Considering Signing Contract With Honduras Football Club
So, what do the players have to say about the possibility of being hired by the national football league of Honduras? This evening we spoke with one of the men Woodrow West who confirmed that he has been contacted about Honduras Progresso’s offer. West says he received a call two weeks ago while he trained with the Belize national team but says that despite the number of calls he has received, he has yet to make up his mind on signing with the club. “The guy that made the contact was Luis Cabrerra, he was a trainer here with the national team for Belize for six year I believe and he is training a team over there and he asked me if I want to go play in Honduras and I told him that it depends and he said that he has a team in Honduras to play which is Honduras Progresso and he made the coach contact me and he told that yes he wants me to go and play with the team and this is not try out but straight line up and I told his that it depends on what they have to offer and so when I came up on Friday the boss from the club he called me personally and told me that he has made adjustment to play over there and he talked about money and we are negotiating up to this point and he called me last night and they are coming to Belize today.”

San Pedro Red Cross Conducts Blood Drive
The San Pedro Belize Red Cross has been working with the Belize Blood Bank and medical professionals of Belize to improve the communication and process for Ambergris Caye residents to receive blood in time of need. Blood drive coordinators in San Pedro say it is of upmost importance for all to recognize the necessity of the SPBRC blood drives on Ambergris Caye to keep a full supply of blood on hand at the Belize Blood Bank in Belize City. And in an effort to keep a healthy flow of blood in the bank, the committee is hosting yet another Blood Drive on Ambergris Caye. Sue Barkhouse is a member of the San Pedro Red Cross. “We’ve been working with the Belize Blood Bank to increase the amount of blood supply because what is happening is we wanted to make sure that anybody from ambergris Caye whether you are a resident or a tourist, if you are going to have surgery or medical emergency or any medical need at all you would have blood allocated for you, in the past what has happened is people unfortunately if they needed blood won’t have blood readily available or they would have to replace any blood that they use so the idea of San Pedro Belize Red Cross got together to have regular quarterly blood drive so that we can have a blood supply available to anybody from Ambergris Cay so no matter if it was a surgery or medical emergency they would have blood on hand and there won’t be any pressure on the individual or family to replace that blood.”

Minister Of National Security Driver charged For Manslaughter By Negligence
Minister of National Security John Saldivar’s driver, Orlando Castillo has been formally charged for manslaughter by negligence after he knocked down caretaker, Vallan Paul Cucul of the Toledo District. Reports suggest that sometime on Saturday Cucul was riding his black and red beach cruiser bicycle in Camalote Village when he may have veered into the highway and was hit from behind by a vehicle, killing him on the spot. Police received the call around 7:00p.m and their investigation led them to the house of Saldivar’s driver, who was arrested and charged after it was determined that he was driving a Volkswagen Jetta car. The vehicle in question belongs to the Ministry of National Security and when he hit Cucul, Castillo did not stop to render aid. The car had minor damages to its front portion.

Honduras Interested In Two Belizean National Players
The Honduran football club, Honduras Progresso has its eyes set on two of Belize’s top football players. Reports are that directors of the team should be in Belize as of today to finalize the contracts with Woodrow West and Deon McCauley. Twenty-nine year old West is Belize’s national team’s goal keeper while twenty-seven year old Deon MaCauley plays forward and is presently holds Belize’s leading goal scorer in the recent games. The report was filed today on the web page of a radio station titled Diez. According to that report, the Honduras Progresso President Elias Nazar has confirmed that the director would be in Belize today. CTV-3 contacted Executive Member of the FFB, Maroln Kuylen who told us they are aware of the situation but say the discussions are in the initial stages.

Mexican National Charged for Theft
Yesterday we told you about the Mexican National who was arrested and charged for theft by Corozal Police after the manager of Mundo Moda located in the Corozal Commercial Free Zone accused him of stealing a cell phone valued at $500.00. Last night we were unable to reveal the name of the individual since he stated to police that he was 17 years old, meaning a minor. But tonight we can release his name since authorities have confirmed that he is 18 years of age. Adriel Azariel Colli Cortez, a resident of Chetumal Quintana Roo, Mexico, is expected to appear before the Corozal Magestrates Court on Thursday. In the meanwhile he will remain behind bars at the Corozal Police Station. Police were able to confirm Cortez’s age after his mother brought in an ID.

Customs Officer Accused Of Knocking Down Corozal Resident
A resident of Corozal sustained injuries after being the victim of a road traffic incident. According to reports, on Friday night around 9:00, Azir Zalazar was riding his bicycle on College Road in Corozal when he was hit by a car and began experiencing pain to his hands and legs. Zalazar was taken to the hospital by Kenroy Samuels, a 43 year old customs officer who was behind the wheel at the time. Police say that Samuels was suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and subsequently detained. Samuels was then informed in the presence of a doctor, that a blood and urine sample was needed but he refused. He was later taken to the Corozal Police Station where a notice of intended prosecution was given. Samuels is also expected to be charged with “failure to provide specimen.”

PlusTV

Allison “Wally” Williams shot and killed in Belize City
Police are investigating a latest murder in Belize City that took place on Friday evening...

Jason Sutherland a shooting victim in Belize City
There was another shooting incident in Belize City over the weekend, however, this one was not fatal. Sr. Supt. Alden Dawson gives the details of the attack on Jason Sutherland on Saturday night. “On Saturday, the13th after 9:00 pm, inform...

Police Department makes changes in Caye Caulker
The Belize Police Department exited last week with much egg on its face after insisting that 18-year-old Hilberto Sotz had died of natural causes while in their custody being questioned over a series of burglaries...

Ministerâ€™s Driver Charged for Fatal hit and Run
Tonight, 57 year old Orlando Castillo, a resident of Belmopan and the driver of the Minister of National Security Hon. John Saldivar, is facing a slew of charges relating to a hit and run incident that occurred on Saturday June 13th...

Man fixing vehicle on road side hit by motorcycle ; dies
24 hours later after that accident on Saturday, there was another fatality near the George Price Highway; this one involving 33 year old Marco Gutierrez, a Honduran National and a resident of St. Matthews Village...

Court of Appeal discusses judgesâ€™ tenure
An appeal heard today in the current session of the Court of Appeal hits home for that court, concerning as it does the issue of security of tenure for judges appointed to sit there...

Two charged with security guardâ€™s murder acquitted
Supreme Court Justice Troadio Gonzalez today directed a jury of seven men and five women to declareTalbert Mena and Jamal Jackson not guilty of the murder of Nigerian security guard Kabiru Olun-gu-dudu in February of 2010...

Belize Jaguars victorious over DR
Belize Jaguars made history yesterday by qualifying for the third round of 2018 Gold Cup Qualifiers with a blowout victory against the team from the Dominican Republic; beating them 5-1 in the global score. On Sunday June 14^th, Belize played the second leg of the match up against the DR team in ho...

Caye Caulker Chronicles

Caye Caulker Police Sub formation To Hold Community Meeting On June 18, 2015
The Caye Caulker Police Sub-Formation has scheduled a public meeting on Caye Caulker, Belize. It is set for June 18, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at the community center. “Come be a part of the progress!” exclaims the announcement. Two members of the Caye Caulker Police Department were indicted for murder after 18 year old Hilberto Sotz, a local youth who was being detained for questioning regarding a string of burglaries, ended up dead. Hilberto was the third person detained at the station under police watch to end up dead over a span of twelve years.

Celebrate! The Crusty Crustaceans Are Here. Lobster Season Is Now Open!
Celebrate, peeps! Lobster season is now open. The first harvests of the new season have been rolling in steadily since June 15th. The first grilled lobsters, curry lobster, lobster ceviche, lobster salad and just about every other lobster concoction you can think of have been served. So far, the start of the season is looking great for some fishermen. This was the scene at the dock belonging to Blue Sea Diving Services. Everyone is excited the season is open. The annual Lobster Fest, a festival which celebrates the opening of the lobster season, is set to begin on June 25, 2015. Think they’ll have enough for the festival?

Elections & Boundaries Will Be Registering New Voters At The Community Center On Saturday
The Elections & Boundaries Department notifies the General Public that a team of officers will be at the Caye Caulker Community Center on Saturday, 20th June, 2015 from 9am to 4pm. This is to facilitate the registration of persons who have attained the age of eighteen (18) years and older and have not yet registered, and delivery of voter ID Cards.

Amandala

GOB gives Guat gunboat “red carpet” treatment!
The Guatemalan naval vessel GC 651 Tescum Uma, which illegally entered Belize territorial waters on Wednesday night and ended up running aground on Glover’s Reef Atoll, near Middle Caye, was removed from the reef yesterday, Sunday, and was given clearance, presumably on instructions by Prime Minister Dean Barrow to both Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington and National Security Minister John Saldivar, to return to Guatemala immediately, even before damage assessment by the Department of the Environment is completed. Belizeans learned of the so-called “accident” involving the 65-foot Guatemalan gunboat on Thursday morning mostly via social media. In a statement from Ret’d Colonel George Lovell, the Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of National Security, on Thursday morning, it was said that the boat purportedly “experienced propulsion problems,” meaning engine troubles, which caused it to drift.

Two charged for Ralston Patnett’s murder in Dangriga
Two men have been remanded to the Belize Central Prison for the murder on June 8 of retired Dangriga Town fire chief, Ralston Patnett, 51, whose remains were found in his smouldering car that was completely destroyed by fire, in the driveway of a house for which he was the caretaker, near the Commerce Bight Pier in Dangriga Town. Brandon Mason Kerr, 30, of Mile 21on the Hummingbird Highway, and Lindberg Oxford Williams, 32, of Commerce Bight Road, Dangriga, were charged by police on Wednesday for Patnett’s murder. Today, Friday, they were arraigned on the murder charge at the Dangriga Magistrate’s Court by Magistrate Patty Arana, and then remanded to the Belize Central Prison until July 29. Police reported that at about 2:30 Monday morning, they were informed that a car was burning in the driveway of a house in the Commerce Bight Pier area of Dangriga.

Allison Williams, 28, gunned down on Partridge St. Extension
Last Friday night, shortly after 9:35, the explosive sound of multiple gunshots alerted residents in the Partridge Street Extension area of Belize City that, given the trend, a murder had just happened. Moments later, an apparently lifeless body was spotted lying face-down in a pool of blood in front of a late-model grey Mazda car which was parked in front of #1011 Partridge Street Extension. While area residents who rushed to the scene were unable to initially discern the identity of the victim, relatives and friends who received the news and went to the area soon declared that it was Allison “Wally” Williams, 28, a resident of Rivero Street, Belize City. According to police, Williams was socializing with two female friends of the abovementioned address when he was accosted by a gunman who shot him several times in the head and body.

Guatemalan soldiers “punk” Belize – again!
Roughly five hours after a Guatemalan gunboat, which was illegally in Belize’s waters, along with one other gunboat and a Columbian-type boat, was allowed to leave Glover’s Reef Atoll, near Middle Caye, where it had run aground, on Sunday, without any penalties for damaging the reef, five Belizeans were allowed to leave a Guatemalan court where they had been charged for an incident fabricated by Guatemalan soldiers in the village of Santa Cruz, a Guatemalan community which borders Jalacte, an informal border point where a lot of commercial activity occurs between Belize and Guatemala. After reaching the safety of Belize, the men told the media that they had to plead guilty to the false charges brought by Guatemalan soldiers who accused them of being drunk, or they would not have been released. They were charged 500 quetzals each, but even after they paid the fine, they still would not have been released if it were not for the efforts of Belize’s Ambassador to Guatemala, Alexis Rosado and protocol officer Said Guerra.

Inspector Dehanne Augustine is new Caye Caulker police chief
Inspector Dehanne Augustine, commander of the National Community Policing, is now the new police commander of Caye Caulker. The announcement was made by the police high command on Friday. Inspector Augustine took over on Friday, and the deputy commander is veteran sergeant Norman “Bregal” Benguche. Inspector Augustine has spearheaded many community policing initiatives and came to prominence while spearheading the GREAT (Gang Resistance Education and Training) Program, and also the Do the Right Thing Program, among other programs that have been implemented nationally.

Computerized student tracking to be implemented new school year
a generic and open source Education Management Information System available to all UNESCO member countries, which is used to collect and report data on schools, students, teachers and staff – is being implemented in Belize by the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and UNESCO, and official sources indicate that the plan is to have the system implemented in schools for the next school year. Alan Gennity, Deputy Chief Education Officer in the Policy, Planning, Research and Evaluation Unit of the Ministry of Education, confirmed to our newspaper today that the plan is to have the systems in place in the coming months, so that schools could begin to directly input student information. He told us that during the months of May and June 2015, Education officials visited schools across the country to collect student-level data, such as the names of students, the names of their parents, their address and other background information, and they are in the process of hiring data entry persons to enter the data into the OpenEMIS.

Belize, 3-nil over Dominican Republic at FFB Stadium
For the first time since the stadium was built and hosted international matches, our Belize National “A” Team was victorious at the FFB Stadium, in an important World Cup Qualifier match against the much higher ranked Dominican Republic team, and Belizean fans were ecstatic. Nothing the Dominican Republicans had seen or heard of Belize, except maybe Deon McCaulay, could have prepared them for what transpired yesterday. Belize got some breaks in game 1 in Santo Domingo, and our acclaimed striker Deon McCaulay was indeed the difference, for our opponents dominated play in midfield as the Belize players strove to find cohesion in transition from defense to attack inside the 3 forward – 3 middle formation they have been battling to master in training sessions since November of last year. In last Sunday’s training match at the MCC, their performance was disappointing; but coach Jorge Nunez and his assistant Charlie Slusher remained confident that their game strategy would, eventually be mastered by the team. In game 1 in Santo Domingo, our squad seemed to be struggling, but there were some moments when we seemed to be putting our game together. And a little luck, and the artistry of Deon was enough to garner the win.

Playoff race hot: Smart 13 & Under Mundialito
While our National “A” Team made the nation proud yesterday with our first step forward to the 3rd Round of World Cup 2018 Qualifiers, the future stars are in one “helluva” battle at the MCC Grounds, where only 2 more weeks remain in the regular season of the 2015 Smart 13 & Under Mundialito. The top 4 regular season teams will go on to the one-game knockout semifinals; then the two remaining teams will play a home-and-away championship Finals. 12 teams are in the tournament, making 11 games each in the single round-robin regular season. Week 9 games were played this past Saturday, June 13, and competition was fierce, with only one game showing more than 1 goal scored. In the opener on Saturday, Collet Strikers got the 1-nil win over Face of Belize on a goal by Michael Palacio. Game 2 was a 0-0 draw between City Boys and London Strikers.

Boxer is gone; R.I.P. Henry “Boxer” Gill
Our heart is still heavy with the shocking news we received yesterday of the passing on Friday, of boxing enthusiast, one time professional boxer, and dedicated youth activist, Henry Gill, a.k.a. Boxer. Just a few days earlier, he had reached out to the public for financial assistance for his “Henry Gill Boys & Girls Boxing Club” located at the Body 2000 building on Coney Drive. As I drove home on Sunday morning after the Press Cadogan Show on Krem FM, I saw the black ribbon on the door at Body 2000, confirming that there was no mistake, my friend had passed. Initial reports are that his funeral will be held on Saturday, R.I.P. brother Henry “Boxer” Gill.

The return of the Jaguars
A confident Belize Jaguars team arrived at the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) in high spirits shortly after midday today, after a 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic’s national football team in the first match of their home-and-away series yesterday, Thursday. Their elation was bolstered by boisterous relatives, friends and fans who greeted the team, which is now one step closer to reaching a historic third round in the 2018 World Cup Qualifying games. Both of Belize’s goals were scored by the country’s most prolific goleador, Deon McCaulay, who explained that, while he was happy to deliver for his team in the Dominican Republic, he is also looking forward to a positive outcome in the return game, which will take place at the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) Stadium this Sunday, June 14. He said, “I’m very happy to be back with the team. Everybody has given me all the love because they know that once Deon is back, there will be goals. Thank God that I was able to prove myself once again, and I’m looking forward to the game on Sunday, hoping for the same results. Once we come out as a team and work hard, anything is possible.”

Editorial: Risk, symbolism, and independence
In the space of two weeks, the territorial integrity of Belize was violated by the Guatemalan Navy at Sarstoon Island, on May 28/29, and at Glovers Reef on Thursday, June 11. In both incidents, the Belize Coast Guard was instructed to refrain from standard defence protocol. In the case of Sarstoon Island, they were instructed by the Prime Minister of Belize to withdraw from that island, and in the case of Glovers Reef, the occupants of a Guatemalan gunboat stuck on Glovers Reef reportedly refused to hand up their arms and submit to Belizean authorities. Guatemalan Navy personnel were allowed to return to Guatemala. Our reports of the Glovers Reef incident are still incomplete and imprecise. In fact, our reports are probably inaccurate. From the beginning of the incident, it was clear to the Belizean people that the authorities and spokesmen of the Government of Belize have sought to tell a story which, at every turn, casts the Guatemalan gunboats and their crews in the most favorable, least offensive light. The Belizean authorities and their spokesmen have been behaving like defence attorneys for the Guatemalans in such incidents for such a long time that few Belizeans are in any way surprised. Bitterly disappointed, yes, always bitterly disappointed. But surprised? No. We think it is reasonable to say that the masses of the Belizean people have felt repeatedly embarrassed. And every such incident is another blow to our fragile national dignity.

Caye Caulker in mourning
Dear Editor, Last year I was asked to write an article about the police, by a constable, to shed some light on the problems of serving the law here on Caye Caulker and under what kind of conditions they have to perform their duties. I told him I would have to play the Devil’s Advocate because I have my opinions too, I told him, and those might not be to your liking. And you want me to do this in collaboration with you because you want me to express your concerns and at the same time you want to be anonymous. At the same time, it must be hard when you are straight and you see the corruption around you; probably you feeling like you’ve ended up as a pissing post from all sides – the public, your superiors, your colleagues, etc. Here or abroad, it is not very appreciated to be a whistleblower, which can result in a lot of trouble on the job, especially in a rigid system as the military or the police. Well, I told him, to me, it feels like quite a challenge, so let’s see what comes out of this.

Indigenous leaders prepare declaration to reduce incursions
Maya Q’eqchi leaders of Belize traveled to Poptun, Petén, Guatemala, recently for a three-day meeting, as a follow-up to a reunion of indigenous community leaders that was held in Punta Gorda this March. The representatives of the indigenous communities developed a draft declaration calling for more attention to be paid by their governments to the communities located near the border, so that incursions into the Chiquibul-Maya Mountains area can be reduced. “Once reviewed and finalized, the declaration, whose contents is based on matters related to ‘territory, natural resources and ancestral knowledge,’ will be presented to the Governments of Belize and Guatemala,” said Rafael Manzanero, Executive Director of Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD). “The leaders of indigenous communities from Southern Petén and Southern Belize shared their ideas, and vision on how to unite efforts and promote local participation that addresses the environmental, social and economic problems of their communities situated along the Belize-Guatemala border,” Manzanero added.

Spouse jumps out of vehicle during alleged domestic dispute
report on the incident as yet, Amandala understands that an unidentified woman suffered varying degrees of injuries to her body when she reportedly jumped out of a moving SUV during a domestic dispute with her spouse yesterday at around 6:00 p.m. Reliable police sources have indicated to us that the couple was engaged in an altercation inside the Chevy Blazer when the woman reportedly jumped out and injured herself near the La Popular Bakery, which is located along the Philip Goldson Highway in Ladyville. We were told that police took a statement from the driver of the vehicle this morning and that the woman has since confessed to authorities that she was not pushed out of the moving vehicle.

Breaking Belize News

Guns vs. Machetes in Cayo
In San Ignacio Town, two nights ago, 28 year old Alex Rios bravely defended Chuc’s Gas Station on Bullet Tree Road from a pistol-wielding robber – with a machete. According to reports, Romeo Quiroz, who works as a pump attendant, was manning his station when he glimpsed a man pointing […]

Making music big business in Belize
A first of its kind Music and Entertainment Industry Seminar over four days this week brings together heavy hitters from across the Belizean music landscape and their associates for a serious look at advancing music as more than a lifestyle, but also a living for its practitioners. Belize […]

Honduras Progresso Football Club scouts for Woodrow West and Deon McCauley
Today, two star players of the National football team are being drafted by the international football league in Honduras. Members of El Honduras Progreso are en route to Belize to finalize all the paper works for the enrollment of Goal keeper, Woodrow West and goal striker Deon McCauley, confirmed Elias […]

Drawing date for the 3rd round in the 2018 CONCACAF has been set
The drawing date for the third round of the 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers is set for July 25th, 2015 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The 8 teams that have qualified for the 3rd round include: Barbados, Curacao, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Grenada. Meanwhile, […]

Standard Six students engaged in self-awareness lessons
Standard six students from the La Inmaculada Upper School were today engaged in several self-awareness lessons thanks to the schools administration in collaboration with the Department of Youth Services. The students were engaged in lessons on Bullying, Drugs, Self-esteem, self-worth among issues that students face when transitioning from Primary to […]

15 year old raped in Dangriga
Dangriga police are today investigating a case of rape in that municipality. Information reaching our news room is that a 15 year old student from Dangriga accompanied by her aunt reported that on Monday, June 15th, around 11am, she was forcibly taken into the Baptist Church compound located in the Foreshore […]

Melhem Kelly charged for attempt robbery and possession of unlicensed firearm
Police in the west have since arrested and charged 37 year old Melhem Kelly from Orange Street in San Ignacio in the Cayo District for the crime of attempt robbery and possession of unlicensed firearm. Reports are that on Monday, June 15th, around 10:05pm, they received and responded to a […]

Pot bust in Corozal
A resident from Chunox village in the Corozal District has been charged for the crime of Drug Trafficking. According to Corozal Police, on Monday, June 15th, around 6:30 pm, they were on mobile control within the village, when they stopped a public bus and conducted searches on 38 year old […]

Family of Hilberto Sotz is still mourning
Last week’s murder of Caye Caulker resident, 18 year old Hilberto Sotz sent shock waves across the country and sparked a riot in the small community which was angered by the senseless acts of the police officers who were responsible for the teenager’s death. Since the incident occurred, a post […]

Custom officer knocks down cyclist
A traffic incident on Friday in Corozal Town injured a resident of that municipality. According to the report, Azir Zalazar was riding his bicycle on College Road in Corozal when he was hit by a car and began experiencing pain to his hands and legs. The incident occurred at around […]

George Price Highway between Belmopan and Santa Elena will get major upgrade
For the last few years, citizens have constantly complained about the deterioration and many potholes on the Belmopan – Santa-Elena stretch of the George Price Highway. Yesterday, however, it was reported that the government is going to dish out 1.5 million US dollars to upgrade it. That amount will be […]

PUP Questions Guatemalan Intrusion
“How is it that a Guatemalan naval vessel could enter and traverse Belize’s territorial waters unannounced and undetected by Belize’s national security apparatus?” This official release sent by the PUP yesterday is just one of the many questions left unanswered, days after a Guatemalan vessel has been removed from Belize’s […]

PUP will contest the Dangriga bye-election
The PUP will contest the bye-election for a new Dangriga Representative that is scheduled for July 8th. Last week Tuesday, the party was unsure if they would contest the election, due to lack of funds, and available finance being directed towards the upcoming general election. However, the PUP has […]

Blogs

10 Best Belize Family Hotels & Resorts
Every parent knows the secret to taking kids on vacation is finding a spot that’s so kid-friendly, they never miss their electronic gadgets! Belize resorts for families are at the top of many parents’ lists because the country is easy to navigate, big on attractions and activities, affordable and not so crowded you’ll have to compete for beach space. Beaches and forests are enchanting. Seeing wildlife in natural habitats thrills kids of all ages, and there’s much to be said about lullabies courtesy of rhythmic Caribbean waves after full days of family fun.

From Caye to Cayo: Top 4 Experiences in Belize
The Cayes and the Cayo. Typographically, they may be very similar, but topographically these distinctive regions in Belize are worlds apart. The Cayes (pronounced “keys”) are the hundreds of islands that stretch the length of Belize’s coast, ranging from tiny spits of sand and tangled networks of mangrove, to the 25-mile long Ambergris Caye. About half the size of Barbados, Ambergris is a laid-back Caribbean beach town with a decidedly “no shoes, no shirt, no problem” attitude. On its narrow, sandy roads numerous “Go Slow” street signs maintain an orderly flow of golf-cart traffic (there are no car rentals here), while on the water dozens of speedy boats and water taxis whisk vacationers to beachside resorts and some of the best dive and snorkel spots in the world.

PORN - Food Porn Anyway
When I think about the most missed items from my previous life, many are food related. Restaurants, and dishes that you just can't find down here. I will say there is some phenomenal eating in and around San Pedro - and if you know where to go you can really knock out some amazing culinary experiences. They don't all have to come from a restaurant either - I fancy myself a pretty good cook really (had you sampled the grouper I just cooked you would likely disagree...but I can't nail them all). I tend to enjoy telling stories as I write - but my brain is kinda fried. So while thinking and remembering these events as I re-count them for you; I won't be using my normal story telling style, but more just a 'here's a picture and description of the event' type of approach. Or they at least won't be one cohesive story..eh, we'll see what comes out. Home Cooking is often underrated. I'm not a genius in the kitchen, but I have a few dishes that I like to think I've conquered. Tacos is one for sure. I make an crazy good taco. My secret? I do have a proprietary sauce that is yumilicious. But really in my opinion the shell is the biggest factor. There are a million taco vendors here and they all have one major issues - the shell is instantly soggy and the goodies fall out the bottom. It's really not tough to make a decent taco but apparently I'm the only one here that can. Casserole's are my other favorite - not for the yum factor, but you cook once and eat for days.

Where were you when the lights went out?
Around noon I began to grow concerned. A random survey of my neighbors yielded a startling discover: In this condo complex, they all had electricity. Except me. Some asked me if there was a red tag on my meter — a sign that I’d failed to pay my electric bill. Some looked at me with the sad wizened eyes of experience, nodded their heads sagely and said with a touch of concerned, “Looks like it is your turn.” I knew what they were talking about. I’d heard the stories from my elders, around the bar at Feliz Bar & Grill. The Outage. It strikes when you least expect it. Sometimes the power comes back on all by itself, but mark my words, this ain’t over. In another day, a week, a month — it will go out again. Sometimes once it is gone, it is lost until your unit is rewired. It seems that when this complex was built, trenches were cut from the power source to the buildings and wiring was laid. Unprotected aluminum wiring. Wiring that corrodes in the salty air of Ambergris Caye, Belize.

International Sources

Belize activist: ‘I’ve sacrificed my life to this work’
” ‘Batiman!’ someone called from the shade of a food-cart umbrella. “In Belize — a small Anglophone Caribbean nation tucked into the eastern flank of Guatemala and Mexico — “batiman” (Creole for, literally, “butt man”) has long been the supreme slur against gay men, the worst possible insult to their personhood and dignity. But now another slur is beginning to take its place: ‘Orozco.’ … ” A seven-foot-tall security gate barricades his driveway. When home, he must remember to lock all six locks — two for his house, two for his office and two padlocks on the gate for good measure. Those precautions do not prevent Orozco’s neighbor or people walking by his house from throwing rocks and bottles over the walls, shouting, ‘Aala unu fu ded’ (‘All of you should die’). Other residents have picked up two-by-fours and chased him in the street. People stone Orozco’s house frequently enough that he rarely bothers to call the police at this point. …

Central American four lead the way
There were no major surprises in the second round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ in Russia. Canada opened their account with aplomb while the Central America quartet of Guatemala, El Salvador, Belize and Nicaragua all move on. Cuba’s hopes were dashed at the first hurdle while goals tumbled in across the Caribbean. FIFA.com takes a closer look at all the action. Deon means goals in Belize: Belize struggled to score without hit-man Deon McCaulay in the opening rounds. They scored only once – and that from a set-piece – in 180 minutes of football against the Cayman Islands. But the return of their star striker in the second-round series against Dominican Republic made all those woes disappear. He scored three in two games and is on track to repeat his amazing feat of four years ago when he finished global top-marksman in qualifying for Brazil 2014, edging out Luis Suarez, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. “Deon’s composure in front of the goal is the kind of thing you can’t teach,” veteran Belize midfielder Elroy Kuylen told FIFA.com

Most intriguing creatures of the deep
The elusive batfish was seen in Belize by tourists who had the weird sea creature pointed out to them by a fisherman. The strange fish has legs that allow it to walk on the ocean floor.

2nd Law Enforcement Battalion conducts crowd control training during exercise Tradewinds 2015
Members of 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conducted crowd control training event for partner nations participating in phase II of exercise Tradewinds 2015 at Price Barracks June 16. The Marines of 2nd LEB shared their knowledge with four other nations on the second day of training during Tradewinds 2015. “We are teaching them how to clear a building and the safeties involved with that, how to exploit evidence if they came across any and crowd controlling techniques, while also learning what we can from them,” said Lance Cpl. Dalton Raven, a field military police officer with 2nd LEB. During the event, the Marines outlined, using caution tape, rooms to a house as a training area for the partner nations to learn how to clear buildings alongside their other military counterparts. Cpl. Aquilo Sho, reconnaissance platoon, 2nd Infantry Battalion, Belizean Defense Force, expressed how much he learned from the training and how valuable it was.

Mexico researchers decode name on Mayan King Pakal's tomb
Researchers in Mexico say they have decoded the hieroglyphic name on the Palenque tomb of ancient Mayan King Pakal, revealing it to read "The House of the Nine Sharpened Spears", more than sixty years after the crypt was discovered. Mexican archaeologist Alberto Ruz Lhuillier discovered the burial crypt in 1948 and new research into the jaguar, a sacred animal for the Maya civilization, led Guillermo Bernal, from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), to make a link with other hieroglyphics of the same form. "This is a name linked with war and an aspect which was not previously known as the hieroglyphic (could not be) deciphered until now," Bernal, from UNAM's Mayan Studies Centre, told a news conference in Mexico City on Monday. "'The House of the Nine Sharpened Spears' is a denomination represented by the nine warriors in the walls of the tomb." Born in the seventh century, King K'inich Janaab' Pakal is said to have ascended to the throne aged 12. He led a prosperous government in the ancient city of Palenque and is believed to have been behind the building of its finest architecture.

Q&A; Emma Martin
Interpreting the Mesoamerican civilisation for a UK audience. Emma Martin, the head of ethnology at National Museums Liverpool, discusses her work on a temporary exhibition, displaying 385 objects from the ancient Maya kingdoms, spanning eastern Mexico to Guatemala, Belize, western Honduras and El Salvador from 1000BC –1542AD.

Navy Public Affairs Support Element Wes
The U.S. Ambassador to Belize, Carlos Mareno, visited a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter here today as the maritime phase of the annual Tradewinds exercise began. Mareno said the U.S. Coast Guard pairs perfectly with its Belizian partners. He added that with the regional-security challenges faced here and throughout Central America, there is no better branch of our military than the Coast Guard to help during this important joint exercise. USCGC Paul Clark (WPC-1106), commanded by Lt. Lloyd Belcher, is leading the Coast Guard’s role in Tradewinds 2015 maritime phase II - which includes coastal patrol operations, small boat operations, engineering administration, maritime law enforcement, and operation center procedures. Up to 18 nations are expected to participate in phase II of Tradewinds 2015 which runs through June 24th.

Videos

Mexico Belize Channel, 1/2min.Around 600 A.D the Maya dug a channel to to provide a trade route from the Bay of Chetumal, Quintana Roo to the Caribbean. It now acts as a border between Belize and Mexico.

Ambergris Caye, Belize, 10min. I shot this snorkeling video in June 2015 on my GoPro Hero4 Black mainly in 4K, with some 1080p mixed in.

Belize Trip, 12min. Catamaran Belize Trip 10/24/14-11/1/14.

Belize 2015, 3min. Vacation in Ambergris Caye, Belize with the Nevil's, Day's, Day's, O'Higgins', and the Mears. 2015.

Sun Dancer II Liveaboard Belize (Part 1), 7.5min. Sun Dancer II Belize May 2015 - great liveaboard, great crew, awesome time!

Sun Dancer II Liveaboard Belize (Part 2), 11min.

Swim in marine life heaven Caye Caulker Belize, 3min. Swim in marine life heaven Caye Caulker Belize.

Cave Tubing Belize 2015, 4min.

IT'S ALRIGHT, BELIZEAN ARTIST STEPHEN SMITH, IS THE MIGHTY ICEBERG!, 4min. The Mighty Iceberg is Belizean reggae musical artist, Steven Smith, who has been a legend in the Los Angeles Caribbean music scene since the 1970's. A classic bass player since the legendary Belizean artist days, bredda David, who lived in the Los Angeles Belizean Community, The Mighty Iceberg is rated amongst some the best Belizean reggae artists and musicians of his time. A cool and humble brother who sings a melodic alto, his incredible album, Meeting Time, is graced by some of Belize's best musicians like Bamiki Bandula's, Carl McGregor on bass, and Delbert McGregor on drums. The 2006 musical release by Smith had passed by many Caribbean music lovers who missed one of the most well played and produced reggae albums of that year.

WHEN HARRINGTON TRAPP SINGS THE BIRTHDAY SONG!, 5min. The legendary Belizean musical artist, Harrington Trapp's 2010 hit single, Birthday Song, became an instant hit both in Los Angeles, California, and Belize almost at once when the former Babylon Warriors lead singer released the song on the Los Angeles Belizean music scene. The hit single from Trapp's full album called Harrington Trapp, Bithday Song celebrates Belizean culture with its delicious Central American and Caribbean cuisines, and unique lifestyle.

THE ACCLAIMED BABYLON WARRIORS'S TWO FOOT COW!, 5min. The internationally acclaimed Belizean band, Babylon Warriors's track, Two Foot Cow, became an instant hit in 1997 in the Los Angeles Belizean Community, and went on to top the charts in Belize within the Punta Rock music scene. Babylon Warriors being a reggae band of the 1980's, began experimenting with the Punta Rock genre when they added the legendary Garinagu artists, Jesse Flores, the late Dana Martinez, Sapps Sanchez, and Georgette Lambey to their repertoire. It became the first fusion of Belizean Creole and Garifuna artists that would be playing a wide variety of different Caribbean rhythms in the 1990's.

THE LEGENDARY BELLA CARIB SINGS FOR WOMEN OF COLOR!, 4min. The 2010 celebratory track, Woman of Color, by the legendary Belizean musical queen and world class dancer, Bella Carib, pays tribute to the first Black First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, and her work for women all over the world. The song was written by Bella Carib herself, and produced by the legendary Belizean Grammy Award Winner, Michael Hyde, and Bilal Morris of Belizean Legends. It became and instant hit among many Caribbean and African American women in Los Angeles.

June 16, 2015