Recent Belize News, 10/21/2017 to 10/31/2017, BelizeNews.com

Belize's representation at this year's International Living's Retire Overseas Bootcamp Conference 2017

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, and other specials

Ambergris Today

Saga Humane Society's Annual Halloween Bash
It was a packed house at Palapa Bar and Grill this past Sunday, October 29, as the Saga Humane Society of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, held its annual 14th Annual Spooktacular Halloween Party and Costume Contest. It was a family fun-filled event where man's best friend was the main attraction. Island residents got their canine friends in costumes and celebrated along with Saga to help raise funds for the organization. A panel of judges assisted in awarding prizes for Most Original Costume, Scariest, Funniest, Best Look-alike and Best Trick. Below are the winners and a roundup of all this year's participants:

Belize AIDS Report 2016 Shows Decreasing Number Of New Infections
The Ministry of Health has released a copy of the official Annual HIV Statistical Report 2016. On the bright side, the report shows a decreasing number of new infections and ZERO HIV positive mother-to-child transmissions of the 35 babies born last year to infected mothers. That number indicates that the Ministry’s HIV Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission strategies are working.

Misc Belizean Sources

Values Training for Belizean Children to Prevent Corruption
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Attorney General Ministry of Belize, will be delivering training on values for children November 1st-3rd in various public primary schools across the country. On International Anti-Corruption Day last year, Dec 9th, Belize took a historic step by signing its accession to the United Nations’ Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), becoming the 182nd country worldwide to sign onto this international agreement. As part of the UNCAC implementation process, numerous activities will be held across the country to build awareness among and actively engage youth, women, civil society and other relevant stakeholders on corruption.

Pruning Inga Trees
History in the making! 13 farmers in the Maya Golden Landscape received practical training in pruning the amazing inga trees over the weekend. Inga edulis trees are planted in rows to get rid of weeds, improve soil health and produce healthier food in a system called inga alley cropping. 17 farmers in the MGL are pioneering the establishment of inga alley cropping in southern Belize. Plans are underway for more training sessions for this innovative farming practice.

Splashers
Join us this week at Crazy Canucks to paint “November Chick" from 2pm-4pm! Remember to sign up to reserve your seat for Thursday November 2nd.

The Belize Youth Challenge (BYC) Holds Orientation Ceremony
The Belize Youth Challenge (BYC) held its Orientation Ceremony this morning at Mile 21 George Price Highway. It is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation, and the Ministry of Defence. The BYC grows out of the National Youth Cadet Service Corp and the Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge program. It seeks to adopt the best practices of both within the context of Belize, customized for the needs of Belizean at risk youth.

San Pedro Town Council Breast Cancer Awareness Walk|Run
On Saturday, October 28, 2017, the San Pedro Town Council hosted its annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk|Run which saw the participation of many! It was a bit chilly but that didn't hold back the walkers and the runners in participating in this meaningful event. Thanks to everyone who participated and made this event once again a great success! Thank you to the San Pedro Cancer Society for being there at the finish line with refreshments and goodies - definitely a well deserved reward! All proceeds from this event will be donated to the San Pedro Cancer Society.

Return to Happiness (RTH) program in San Pedro
The San Pedro Town Council in collaboration with UNICEF through the Sustainable Child Friendly Initiative Program within the Ministry of Local Government held a small certification ceremony for 10 trained residents in the Return to Happiness (RTH) program. The participants, who either work with children or volunteer in programs that involved children, were part of a one week training. The Return to Happiness program, is a psychosocial program designed to assist children in externalizing their feelings after any traumatic event. The goal of the program, is “to create an opportunity for children between the ages of 5-12 years, who have experienced a natural or man-made disaster, to process their experiences through a series of guided play activities for the purpose of reducing their post disaster anxieties and begin to re-establish their sense of joy, happiness, security and confidence in adult protection”.

3 cops present, but man chooses to punch female cop outside bar
On 28.10.2017 Woman Police Constable (WPC) 2097 Crystal Noralez attached to Eastern Police Division North Strike Team ,reported that at 2:45 a.m. while she was performing 'extra duties' at the Sit and Sip Lounge along with other police officers, a group of young men exited the business and one of the men started behaving disorderly and demanded that the officer return his cap. He shouted “I want my fucking hat from that asshole police.” Even though the man was told that his friends had his cap he punched WPC Noralez on the chin. Police then arrested and charged 26 years old Justin Usher for “Assaulting a Police Officer.”

Cop on interdiction busted with gun
On 28.101.2017, at 3:40 a.m., while a Police officer was performing 'extra duties' at the Elements Night Club on Newtown Barrack in Belize City, he observed a patron behaving disorderly. The patron, identified as Carlisle Bol, was searched and the officer found a brown wooden handle .22 caliber Pistol. Police have formally arrested and charged the 23 year old, Carlisle Bol, a police officer on interdiction for ”Kept firearm without a gun license."

Gunman shoots 4 but injuries not life threatening
On 29.10.2017 about 3:00 p.m. 4 men were socializing on Neal’s Pen Road when a man riding a bicycle fired multiple shots at them. They were immediately taken to the KHMH. At 3:05 p.m. police visited the KHMH and took note of their injuries. 18 year old Cameron Moreira had 1 gunshot wound to his buttocks, 1 gunshot wound to left elbow and 1 to the right hand; 28 year old Godwin Flowers had 1 gunshot wound to his right upper arm and left thigh; 32 year old Darren Dawson had 1 gunshot wound to the right upper arm and 1 to the left thigh; and 67 year old Gerald Tillett had 1 gunshot wound to his left thigh. All victims are in a stable condition while Gerald Tillett has been released from the hospital.

"Dia de Los Muertos" at the Corozal Public Library
November is almost here! We are celebrating the "Dia de Los Muertos" again, here at the Corozal Public Library! View the flyer for additional information!

SISE HOC Finados Altar Display
The SISE House of Culture is having their Finados on Wednesday, November 1st. This year the Finados Altar Display is in homage to David Morey, who was a councilor on the SISE Town Council.

San Pedro Dia de los Finados
November 2nd

Oceana 2017 Wavemakers of the Year
On Saturday October 28th, 2017, Belizeans from across the country gathered at the Belmopan Civic Center to participate in Oceana’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of its dedicated volunateers, our “Wavemakers”. During the event, several Wavemakers were awarded certificates of appreciation for their sensational support for Oceana’s campaigns and initiatives over the past year. Oceana was proud to recognize the St. Catherine Academy (SCA) Wavemaker Club and parent Mrs. Tania Mahler as the 2017 Wavemakers of the Year. The SCA Wavemaker Club, which started in December 2015, was awarded for their dedication to the offshore oil campaign as well as their consistent involvement in cleanups throughout the year. Earlier this month, the SCA Wavemaker Club succeeded in implementing their “Kick Plastic” campaign on campus when the school banned the use of single use plastic and styrofoam, which positively impacts both the environment and reduces the administrative costs of garbage disposal.

Channel 7

Dollar Van Drive Becomes 11th Murder Victim for October
On Friday night we reported on Odner Estiverne, the 40 year old Haitian-Belizean dollar-van driver who was shot in his vehicle at the corner of Complex Avenue and Jones Street. He was shot to the midsection at 5:15 PM, and half an hour later, he died at the KHMH, the record 11th murder in October. But for his family, the loss is a lot more than just another numbing statistic, they are wracked by grief and loss - because Estiverne wasn't any kind of criminal, or gang-banger, or someone who dabbled in the underworld. He was just a dollar van driver who worked very hard to feed his family. His nephew, who asked to appear off camera, said that Estiverne on occasion would hang out with the wrong crowd but only to get them to the right side. He explained this afternoon.

Cops Say Haitian Dollar Van Driver Killed For His Vehicle
Now, his murder also happened half a mile from where police had mounted a command center on Flamboyant Street. Today we found out that Police were close enough to fire at the suspected shooter, but not close enough to catch him. Police say that Estiverne was killed for his vehicle: Sr. Supt. Marco Vidal, Commander - Eastern Division South: "Mr. Estiverne was driving his grey Dodge van and when he approached the corner of Complex Avenue and Jones Street. That is when he was shot upon by an unknown male person and later succumbed to his injuries." "This investigation continues. We are seeking 3 persons in relation to this."

Cardinal Held On For Four Days
And while Estiverne is murder #11 in October, 28 year old Cardinal Andrews is #12. He clung to life for four days after a gunman shot him in the head on Wednesday. He died yesterday at 4:00 as a result of the gunshot which penetrated his skull. Assistant Superintendent Alejandro Cowo gave us an update:... Alejandro Cowo, Assistant Superintendent of Police: "Well he succumbed to his injuries yesterday evening. We have two persons in custody that were detained and interviewed that we have received certain information and we are still following it up at this moment." One of the persons in custody is a minor while the other is an adult. Police have not disclosed a motive - but said it is not part of the gang warfare in the St. Martin's area.

Swazo Shot, Three Weeks After Attempt On His Life
And while the October murder count stands at a dizzying dozen deaths, it could have been more: 5 people were shot between Saturday and Sunday on the Southside - right within the area of concentration for Police Operation ACT. Fortunately, there were no fatal injuries. The first shooting happened on Sunday morning at 7:30 on Jane Usher Boulevard - again, about a half mile from where police have their command center. James Swazo was shot twice by someone who called him out of his house. Police told us that Swazo had been targeted three weeks earlier:... Sr. Supt. Marco Vidal, Commander - Eastern Division South: "Mr. Swazo, 44 years old security guard of Ground Dove Street in the Jane Usher area was at home when he was called out by a male person and when he came out he received a gunshot wound to his stomach and to his left thigh. Mr. Swazo is in a stable condition at this time and this matter is being investigated and there are person being sought for this matter as well."

Four Shot On Pen Road, Including 68 Year Old
And 8 hours after that shooting, four more were shot yesterday afternoon on Neal's Pen Road. Police say it was a targeted attack that injured four: Sr. Supt. Marco Vidal, Commander - Eastern Division South: "Four persons were socializing on a sidewalk near #10 Neal's Pen Road when a lone gunman came and fired shots in the direction of the 4 persons. The 4 persons being: Mr. Kamron Moreira, 18 years old of Freedom Street, who received a gunshot wounds to his buttocks, to his left elbow and right hand; Godwin Flowers, 28 years old, messenger of #10 Neal's Pen Road, received gunshots to his right wrist, right upper arm and left thigh; Darren Dawson, warehouse clerk of #10 Neal Pen Road, also received gunshot wounds to his right upper arm and his left thigh and Mr. Gerald Tillett, 67 years old, of #64 King Street, received gunshot wounds to his left thigh. All persons are stable. Mr. Tillett has since been discharge form the hospital."

Is Operation ACT just a Charade?
So, with 5 shot and one dead on the Southside since operation ACT was launched, can it be said that the operation is working? Today, in what we would hope is an overstatement, the commissioner said it would be, quote, "far worse" without the presence of the operation:... Allen Whylie, Commissioner of Police: "I can say that in respect to the launched of the operation that commenced on Friday, we have had a number of assets, human as well as vehicular resources deployed in the 3 key areas that have been identified and we will continue to meet today to look again in terms of our areas of operations and the current deployment that we have on the streets and where we believe we need to make some changes and tweak those changes will be done."

Vidal Rejects Blame For Four Month Murder Spike/The Myth of The Weed Wars
And so, the worst kind of record has been set on the Southside - which has recorded more than 10 murders in a month for the first time ever. In the City, there have been 53 murders so far in 2017, which is also a record - and we're only in October. That eclipses the previous high in 2014 when there were a total of 48 murders for the entire 12 months of the year. 29 of those 2017 murders have come in the past four months - since Senior Superintendent Marco Vidal has been at the command. We asked him directly today if he is to blame:... Jules Vasquez, reporter: "Mr. Vidal, there has been 12 murders recorded in October on the southside. This is a new high. I think the previous record was 10 and under your tenure since July there have been 29 murders, which is also a quite high figure in 4 months. Explain to me how do you react to this, do you feel any personal accountability or culpability for this?"

Couple Caught In Hit And Run: Wife Dies, Husband Survives
There was a fatal accident on the Southern Highway on Saturday night. It left Mellisa Dorothy Murillo dead and her 35 year old husband Allen Andrews in the hospital. It happened between miles 11 and 12, which is between Sitee River and Silk Grass villages. The couple were on a motorbike. Best information is that Andrews had stopped to fix something on the bike, when a pickup hit them, and then drove off. Dorothy Murillo was flung to the side of the road and died on the spot, while Allen Andrews is in a stable condition at the Southern Regional Hospital. He told police that the pickup came out of nowhere and rear ended the motorbike - but police note that the impact on the cycle is on the front wheel; the back is intact. Police had first reported it as a collision, but at this time it is being treated as a hit and run. Today, the head of crimes investigation said police need your help in finding the truck:

Burnt Remains Found Off Coastal Road
Police don't know what to make of skeletal human remains which were found scattered across an area off the Coastal Road on Saturday night. ACP Joseph Yvette says they don't have much to go on:... ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - Nat'l Crimes Investigation: "Police visited Mile 10 on the Coastal Road, where they came upon some burnt human remains. The remains were processed and then transported to the Southern Regional Hospital for further transportation to Belize City to be examined by the pathologist." "From the observation of the officers who went out there it seemed that it's not too much of an old death, it's not too recent. However, not even the sex could have been determined at that point. That's one of the reasons why it will be brought in today."

Why Was Majil Killed?
Dangriga police have not made any arrests in the murder of 32 year old taxi-man, Jose Alfredo Majil. He was found dead on Friday morning in an orange orchard between miles one and 2 on the southern highway. His body was a few feet from his car, and his throat had been cut. Police say he was last seen on Thursday night:.. ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - Nat'l Crimes Investigation: "Majil was last seen socializing within Dangriga Town on the night of Thursday October 26th, sometime around 10pm. That was the last time he was seen alive." "Police have since conducted several searches and detained 2 persons pending investigation."

Was Exterminator Accidentally Poisoned?
On Saturday morning 54-year old exterminator Ryan Swift died under mysterious circumstances. Swift and his 61-year-old brother Steve had just finished doing some morning work and were drinking rum and socializing at his residence and office on Central American Boulevard. Steve left the compound to go and buy something but when he came back his brother was on the ground seizing. A frightened Steve ran to go and get help but then the same thing happened to him. He survived, but his brother did not. This morning we spoke to Ryan's son, Mark who was still shocked by his father's very sudden and strange death.

Cops Say No Foul Play In Ryan's Death
And while it is a very strange end, head of the Crimes Investigation Branch Assistant Superintendent Alejandro Cowo says they do not suspect foul play. Alejandro Cowo, Assistant Superintendent of Police: "They were socializing at the lower flat of their house in the open area. But when the police checked they found several containers containing suspected liquor that they were consuming." "The house was checked inside the lower and the upper where police found a number of pesticides and other poisonous materials inside the house so far we expect it is a death investigation we are dealing with we do not believe that any foul play is suspected at this moment."

"Ry-Bo", A UDP Legend
So, while police try to determine how he died, his UDP family is more concerned about how he lived. Ryan Swift was a loyal UDP both as a campaigner, and an election strategist. On his Facebook page, Deputy Prime Minister said, quote, "Farewell my friend! You were as true and loyal a soldier for our beloved UDP as any could be!" UDP Party Whip Michael Finnegan shared similar sentiments with us this evening in an interview. Here's what he had to say about the man he called, "a UDP intellect": Hon. Michael Finnegan - UDP Parliamentarian: "The United Democratic Party, we have lost a soldier. We lost an intellect, a political intellect that we'll not be able to replace. We have lost a political lion, and we mourn the passing of Ryan Swift."

Capital Cops Quicker Than Quick Stop Robbers
Belmopan police have moved with commendable quickness to wrap up an armed robbery investigation and recover the stolen items. We told you about it last week Thursday. Three men held up First Stop Pawn shop on Constitution Drive at gunpoint. They made off with $8500.00 dollars in cash, and $51,000.00 dollars in assorted gold jewelries. Well, Belmopan police cracked the case quickly, and recovered 95% of the stolen jewelry. The Head of National Crimes Investigation said it was with the community's help:

Mayas and GOB Back To Court
On last Monday's newscast, we told you about the teleconference hearing that the Government, the Maya Leaders Alliance and the Toledo Alcaldes Association had before the Caribbean Court of Justice. They were there to report to the CCJ judges what progress, if any, had been made in implementing the Consent Order of April 2015. But if you ask the Mayan claimants in this case, in the two and a half years since the CCJ judgment, the Government hasn't done much to make Mayan Communal Land Rights a real thing. So, the two sides went back before the CCJ today for another hearing, where they discussed 5 points of disagreement. The attorneys believed the two sides were miles apart from common ground. At the end of almost an hour and a half, the CCJ helped the Government and the Mayan claimants to resolve 4 out of those 5. Satisfied that this would be the only achievable progress for the day, the hearing was brought to a close.

Desperately Calling For Clues To Calvin's Whereabouts
The Belize City family of 27 year-old Calvin Cattouse are anxious tonight for any information that could lead them to find him. He's been missing for 30 days now, and his family have all but accepted the likelihood that he is no longer alive. Today, his mother returned to our office to make a public plea for information that would lead them to find him. She told us that she and her children just want closure for their loved-one: Bernadine Cattouse - Mother: "I am worried because [it's been] a month, and no answers, nowhere to be found. I am really hurted inside. I have an empty space I want to fill. I just want to locate my son, or find his body, or wherever he is, so that I can have closure. I really need that in my life, and my kids do too."

Capital Corporal Crapulous
A police officer who was caught drunk in uniform on cell phone camera will face the consequences for his actions. The video was posted on Facebook over the weekend and it shows Corporal Glen Arzu stumbling on the side of the road, apparently outside a Belmopan nightclub. Arzu stumbles, steadies himself for a while, and then walks off again, stumbling. He is assigned to the Roaring Creek police station, and his officer commanding, Belmopan Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett says that he will be dealt with. Gillett sent the media a message this morning, saying, quote, "I have directed that he be disciplined before midday today. We are really sorry that this occurred."

No "White Van" Kidnapping Kids in Belmopan
And one more item from Belmopan police, commanding officer Gillett today flatly rejected the Facebook rumor that there's been a white van kidnaping schoolchildren in the west. Today, if you believe Facebook two were supposedly picked up. He says, quote, "Kindly be assured that there's no report of and child being kidnapped or abducted in any part of the Belmopan police jurisdiction." Of course, the white van story has been circulating for the past week, supposedly trying to pick up unsuspecting children here, there and everywhere. Today the police senior command confirmed that they have not gotten a single report about this white van, and there is no investigation; it is just a facebook rumour at this point.

Ministry of Defence Investigating BDF Lt. Col's Company Connect
The BDF is known all over the world for its training facilities which are on offer - for a price - to armies interested in jungle training. But, 7News has received information which shows that the Auditor General is investigating a case where a senior officer and his company may have used his inside connection to have his company benefit from a troop of German soldiers training in Belize. Belize Jungle Experience is a company whose directors are Lieutenant Colonel Charlton Roches along with Margaret Flowers. The auditor general notes that the German Jungle Training package agreement for 152 thousand dollars was not directly with the German Army, but was channeled through Belize Jungle Experience. The small section of the report we have seen goes on to suggest that Belize Jungle Experience was the main contracting party.

Alleged Domestic Abuser Who Stabbed Mom and Kids To Court, To Jail
Last week Tuesday we told you about the serious domestic violence incident on Mayflower Street that left two minors and their mother Nikita Smith injured. They all survived the scary ordeal but Smith sustained the most serious injury with a cracked skull. She gave police a statement where she confirmed that the assailant was her common-law husband 47-year-old Mark Rhaburn who fled the scene. Police picked him up on Friday and today he was taken to court and charged with 3 counts of wounding. He pled not guilty to the charges, but bail was denied because of the threat to his common-law wife and her children.

Justin Usher Strung Up By Cops
Over the weekend, this video which captured 26 year-old Justin Usher being arrested, went viral on Facebook. He is being accused of punching a woman police officer in the face, and in the video, he is heard shouting that this was an injustice. As the video continues on, someone behind the camera shouted at him that he's being arrested for assaulting the officer. That officer, WPC Crystal Noralez, reported that on Saturday morning, at around 2:45, she was working at the Sit and Sip Lounge with other police officers. That's when a group of young men exited. One of them was reportedly behaving disorderly, and he was demanding his cap, which he believed was confiscated by a police officer.

Pesero Chased Off Robber With Horn
There's been a rash of armed assaults on money changers in Corozal in the past few months. Robbers have made off with big amounts of Belizean and Mexican dollars - but, in a few cases the wily peseros have also managed to get away. This weekend, one of them simply used his hon to scare off an attacker. Police told us more:... ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - Nat'l Crimes Investigation: "The information is that sometime around 6:30am on Thursday last, whilst Jose Sanchez was entering his yard, he was approached by 2 male persons dressed in dark clothing where one of them pointed a firearm at him and demanded money. He did not have any money and as a result of that quick thinking lead him to blow the horn of his vehicle and when the neighbors start coming out, the culprits made good their escape."

Belmopan Police Taking Time For Kids
As you saw earlier on the news, they solved a robbery case in less than 72 hours - but Belmopan police don't only play cops and robbers - they've also been doing some good in the community. On Friday they handed over a full playground set to the children of Blackman Eddy village. Villagers say they had been asking for one for a long time. And on Sunday they took 30 underprivileged kids from Belmopan to visit the Belize Zoo. The Belmopan police say that is an effort to engage the young people of the community in a positive way. It's also a way to give exposure to children who might not get out of their own neighborhoods too often.

And The Winners Are...
On Friday we told you about the Garifuna Song Competition Award concert. In the end, The Peoples Choice Award went to Bridget Miranda, while Densfeild Augustine won the Multi-Genre Song award and Desiree Diego won the Single Genre Award for her song. The biggest award for Song of the Year and Budding Artist of the Year went to Kenrick "Luvlace" Lewis. The lucky winners won prizes and cash. The bash ended off with superstar judge Aurelio Martinez showing off his impressive dancing skills. They hope to make this a yearly competition in an effort to keep the Garifuna culture thriving.

Audio Problems With 7News? Call The Cable Company
And, finally, before we close tonight, a note to our viewers who have been complaining of audio difficulties on 7News. For weeks now, we've been getting complaints from viewers on Centaur and Central Television cable systems. They tell us that the news audio cuts out when we return from commercial breaks. First off, this is not a problem at our end; the problem is with your cable provider. Channel 7's audio is fine on CBC cable, and on our Facebook and VIMEO streams. So, regrettably, we cannot fix a problem that we don't have; the problem is with your cable provider. We urge you to complain to your cable operator to push them to solve the problem urgently; we have been trying to do so for months, but with little success.

Channel 5

The Mysterious Death of Cabbie Odner Estiverne
There were three shooting incidents beginning Friday evening in the south side of Belize City that left one person dead and five others injured. Shooting victim Cardinal Andrews also succumbed [...]

Why Did Cardinal Andrews Die?
A second person succumbed to the ongoing gun violence in the Lake Independence area of south side Belize City. Four days after he was shot to the head by a [...]

2 Detained for Dangriga Taximan’s Death
But on Friday morning, investigators in southern Belize had a murder on their hands. A taxi operator, who is originally from Orange Walk, was shot dead inside his vehicle and [...]

Could Coastal Road Bones be Missing Person?
But police are also investigating the remains of a body which was discovered on the Coastal Road on Sunday, which may be upgraded to that of a murder. Today, Police [...]

Exterminator and Older Brother Accidentally Poisoned at Home
But the strangest death over the weekend involved one of two Belize City brothers, who are believed to have inadvertently consumed a toxic chemical as they socialized on Saturday afternoon. [...]

Drunken Cop to be Disciplined in Latest Police Embarrassment
But on the other side of the law, there have been several recent videos of uniformed police officers acting out while on duty; being drunk and disorderly, embarrassing themselves and [...]

Mayas Back in Court, C.C.J. Leans on Government over Consent Order
The Government of Belize has been given one last chance by the Caribbean Court of Justice to live up to its promises made in April of 2015, when it agreed [...]

Will Crique Sarco Be Model for Maya Communal Lands?
In August, the Maya village of Crique Sarco was the first to be entered in the Maya Land Registry. A geographical map created over the course of five years delineated [...]

Trial in Franz Parke Case Set for December
A trial date of December eleventh has been set in the fixed date claim filed by Leader of the Opposition John Briceño against the Attorney General, which concerns the appointment [...]

Wife Perishes, Husband Hospitalized after Traffic Collision
Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident in the south. On Saturday between miles eleven and twelve on the Southern Highway, thirty-five-year-old Allen Andrews of Sittee River was driving a [...]

Youth Activist Faces Police Assault Charge
A physical altercation between a police officer and a young activist was captured on video this weekend. Justin Usher was arrested for reportedly punching the policeman. But the tirade did [...]

Cop Nails Cop at Club for Unlicensed Gun
Aside from the Roaring Creek police officer who is in trouble for his drunken behaviour, in Belize City a cop was detained and is in custody for an incident that [...]

Accused Attacker of Mayflower Street Mom and Kids in Court
A thirty-one-year-old mother and her two children ages were viciously attacked inside their home on Mayflower Street in Belize City. The culprit has been identified as the common-law husband to [...]

Pen Road Shootout Leaves 4 Injured
Four persons were injured in a single shooting on Sunday afternoon as they socialized on Neal Pen Road. A man walked up to the group of friends and fired several [...]

“Chainsaw” Can’t Escape Second Shooting in 3 Weeks
The weekend’s fifth shooting victim is James Swaso, who is better known as “Chainsaw.” He is in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was shot [...]

Is Operation ACT Working Despite Shootings?
The weekend rollout of the latest crime fighting measure to be undertaken by police in Belize City is yet to yield fruit. Despite the seemingly overwhelming presence of officers in [...]

Police Tiplines in Overdrive on weekend
Assistant Commissioner of Police Dezerie Magdaleno also plays a key role in the effectiveness of the campaign. Her responsibility to ACT includes the gathering of actionable leads from members of [...]

Pawnshop Robbery Trio Charged; Cops to Receive Honors
Belmopan police have arrested and charged three persons in connection with last Thursday’s robbery of First Stop Pawn Shop in Belmopan. And it appears that a disgruntled former employee of [...]

Vidal Says Blame It on the “Kush”
The illegal sale of marijuana has long since been identified as the root cause for an eruption of gun violence among feuding groups in Belize City. Both activities have spiked [...]

The World of Sports with James Adderley
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday. [Highlights of the weekend sporting activities…]

CTV3

Electric Shock Victim Identified
Tonight the individual who was electrocuted on the night of Wednesday October 25th in the village of August Pine Ridge here in the Orange Walk District has been identified as nineteen year old Elias Francisco Teul of Bella Vista Village located in the Toledo District. Teul’s body was reportedly identified by his younger sister, Merlyn Teul. A post mortem examination conducted earlier this morning by Doctor Lloyden Kent certified that the cause of death was due to ‘electrocution’. Though it is still unclear what led to the electrocution…a group of Mexican carnival operators, who were stationed at the village at the time of the incident, suspect that Teul lost his life after touching wires inside the control room that maneuver the mechanical rides.

Diesel Reduces By 13 Cents
At the stroke of midnight on Saturday October 28th, fuel pumps across the country saw a change in prices when it comes to the cost of diesel, which saw a marked decrease of thirteen cents… pushing the price from nine dollars and seventy one cents down to a total of nine dollars and fifty eight cents. While the value of diesel experienced a reduction, the same cannot be said for the other fuel prices which remained consistent. The price for regular gasoline remains at ten dollars and twenty cents, kerosene at five dollars and ninety seven cents and finally, the cost of premium gasoline stays at eleven dollars and ninety nine cents (Close to the twelve dollar mark).

Sale And Consumption Of Soft Drinks Prohibited At All MOH Facilities
A memorandum issued earlier this month by the Director of Health Services in the Ministry of Health announces a new policy implemented by the Ministry to band unhealthy foods, including Soft drinks from all Ministry of Health facilities. According to the memorandum, the implementation of this new policy comes after considering the financial and social effects that diseases such as Obesity, Diabetes, Hypertension and Cancer has in our society. Healthy eating, according to the Ministry, is the main contributor to management and prevention of these diseases and as such the Minister of Health along with senior administrative staff of Health facilities have engaged in this ‘Healthy food on site policy” The switch from soft drinks, foods high in sugar, salt and fat…to fresh fruits, vegetables and whole wheat products within all MOH facilities is expected to take effect on November 1st.

Corozal PUP Seven Team Empowers The Youths
And on Friday, the same PUP office was the venue for a graduation ceremony held for participants in a nail design and cake decorating training organised by Dilan Cassanova with support of the PUP Town Council team. According to Cassanova, while the participation was modest, it has given the group of trainees an opportunity to venture into their own business. Dylan Cassanova – Aspiring PUP Candidate: “It was acrylic nail design training and cake decorating so it was two courses we are offering, we had five girls graduating yesterday, basically the course was in the afternoons when they had a free time like from in the afternoon to four or five, the girls went through different stages of the course, basically they learnt to do encapsulado, 3d’s and normal acrylic nails...”

Pesero Committs Suicide
Just before midnight on Saturday October 28th Corozal Police were called to a residence along Olga Marin Drive in Corozal Town where the body of a well-known pesero was discovered dead by family members. The circumstances behind the incident are not known, but reports are that Juan Roberto Cowo was found hanging inside his house. Corozal Police have not released any final report but preliminary indications are that they are viewing the tragic incident as a suicide.

Plan In Place To Protect Corozal Peseros
On Thursday’s newscast we reported on the attempted robbery of a pesero in Corozal Town. Jose Sanchez was preparing to leave his home located in the in the Altamira area of Corozal Town when two men armed with weapons ambushed him. The men who were allegedly wearing masks over their faces demanded money from Sanchez and seeing that he had none, pistol whipped him causing a deep laceration to the forehead. Sanchez’s wife was inside the house and when she saw the incident, she reportedly ran outside to help, but the men pointed their guns on her. Sanchez then reportedly began blowing the vehicle’s horn to alert the neighbors, scaring the robbers away.

LOVE FM

Youth activist arrested; claims police brutality
Justin Usher was arrested on Saturday night after allegedly punching a woman police officer. A video shows Usher being arrested while in front of BTL Park in Belize City. According to Usher, he was at a popular establishment where an altercation ensued over his hat. He says that he was physically assaulted by two police […]

Breaking Belize News

Police issue report on Pen Road quadruple shooting
On Sunday evening around 3:05, acting upon information, police visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital […]

Justin Usher charged for assaulting a police officer
On Saturday, Woman Police Constable Crystal Noralez, attached to Eastern Police Division North Strike Team, […]

Skeletal remains found in southern Belize
On Sunday morning around 9:00, Dangriga police visited an area on the Coastal Road approximately […]

Police officer charged for kept firearm without a gun license
On Saturday morning shortly before 4:00, while police were performing duties at the Element night […]

Julius Espat responds to GOB over Public Accounts Committee meeting
Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Julius Espat, issued a release today to clarify […]

Anti-corruption education and awareness to be held in Belize
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Drugs […]

Vehicular traffic using Iguana Creek bridge
The Iguana Creek bridge, up to this morning, still had 6-8 inches of water over the bridge. Despite this, vehicular traffic is still using the bridge to get to Spanish Lookout.

Video of drunk officer lands him in trouble
A video has been circulating on social media showing a police officer in uniform allegedly drunk in front of a business establishment in Belmopan City. The incident occurred on Saturday night and the officer can be seen stumbling and leaning up against a car to stand.

Blogs

14th Annual SAGA Humane Society Throws a Killer Halloween Party at the Famous Palapa Bar
Yesterday I attended the HUGE Halloween Fundraiser for the SAGA Humane Society at the Palapa Bar. It was their 14th Annual Party and jam PACKED with animals and children. ALL IN COSTUMES…all moving about…a huge crowd. It’s one of my toughest “assignments” of the year. Over half of the photos are more like smudges or smears – this is action photography! So bear with me… Luckily it was an absolutely GORGEOUS afternoon for a party at a beautiful spot. The Palapa Bar and SAGA Humane Society did an amazing job decorating the space, gathering tons of donated prizes and auction items and keeping the crowd well fed and watered.

Ten Mayan Ruin's to Visit Belize
For almost 3000 years, the ancient Maya civilization flourished in Belize, building towering temples as tribute to their god-like rulers. The remains of these once-mighty city-states are scattered throughout the country and are prime for exploration. Xunantunich Set on a leveled hilltop, Xunantunich (shoo-nahn-too-neech) is one of Belize's most easily accessible and impressive Maya archaeological sites. Getting here is half the fun with a free hand-cranked cable ferry taking you (and vehicles) across the Mopan River. Xunantunich may have been occupied as early as 1000 BC but it was little more than a village. The large architecture that we see today began to be built in the 7th century AD.

International Sources

UNCW professor deploys drones to observe eagles in Belize
A UNCW ornithologist has been working with drones to try to observe harpy eagles in the rain forests of Belize. An ornithologist at UNCW has been using drones to study the threatened harpy eagle in the rain forests of Central America. “In remote areas like the mountains of Belize, you can’t just hike in there every day,” said James Rotenberg, associate professor of environmental studies at UNCW. Unlike commercial satellite photos, which have a resolution up to 30 feet, drones can catch details down to a matter of centimeters. “You can identify individual trees,” Rotenberg said.

Videos

Belize 2017, 6min.

BELIZE part 4- CAVES by Viktor Popov 2017, 6min. On the last day of out trip in BELIZE we went on All day excursion to big cave system where we hiked thru jungle, jumped of clifs,floated on tubes,saw bats, lots of untouched staloctites and stalogmites formations, got stung by fire ants and giant mosquitoes,fell on our asses many times in slippery mud,but we survived.

PUP CITY COUNCILOR CANDIDATE JUSTIN USHER ARRESTED FOR ASSAULTING POLICE, 1min. The actual video footage of PUP want to be city councilor candidate Justin Usher being arrested for assaulting a Police officer has surfaced. In the Video Usher appears belligerent and under the influence as he violently screams and cries living eye water while being taken into custody by Belize City Police.

National Song Competition 2017 - Courtney Briceno - Beauty of Belize, 3.5min.

The PUP Corozal Town Council candidates provided health support to residents of the town, 6min. The PUP Corozal Town Council candidates provided health support to residents of the town with a health fair on Sunday, focused on tackling child malnutrition. We stopped in to find how it Another aspect of the health fair was the provision of physical therapy examinations for the disabled and senior citizens.

Proof of police brutality here in independence, People take a look at the video when police arrested my family member in Bella Vista..then instead of taking him to independence police station they took him up the road to happy ranch ...jealous police officer

Birthday Flyboarding in Belize, .5min. San Pedro Flyboarding with Eric the trainer. I can't swim one bit, but this was a bucket list item he made so enjoyable. All I wanted to do was get airborne a little.

Belize 2017- Vacation, 4.5min. The week at SunsetBeach condo on Ambergris Caye and time on the mainland Belize.

Maya Mountain Meditations - Peaceful Sounds from Belize Vol. 2, 10min. Sunrise at Maya Mountain Lodge in San Ignacio, Cayo, Belize

BELIZE 2016, 3.5min. Compilation of my trip to Belize back in 2016

Go Slow at Caye Caulker, Belize, 1min. Diving, snorkeling or just chilling next to the ocean are the main activities at Caye Caulker in Belize. The locals literally live with the go slow philosophy.

October 30, 2017

San Pedro Pirates have won another home game after defeating Dangriga's Wagiya F C 5-0!

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, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Wolfe’s Woofer: Buttered Toast
“Wake up. Time to get up.” “Hunh?” It seemed like my head had barely hit the pillow and Sherry was already calling me to wake up. “What’s going on? Why are you waking me at this time of day?” “Because you have to catch a seven o’clock flight for Belize City. Come on. I’m fixing breakfast for a change.” That perked me up. A few minutes later I stumbled into the kitchen as Sherry was pulling the bread from the toaster. “Do you want the toast buttered or dry?” she asked, as I sipped my coffee. “Buttered.”

Letter to the Editor: Marco Gonzalez Maya Site says thanks
Dear Editor, On Oct 19 and 20th, the Board of Directors of Marco Gonzalez Maya Site AC, Ltd. (MGMSAC, Ltd.), and Belize Institute of Archaeology (IoA) hosted children from San Pedro Town elementary schools and First Form High School to a program of learning about the ancient Maya. Students, teachers and a few parents and guests totaled 657 at El Patio Restaurant over the two-days to hear a fun and informative presentation by Mr. Antonio Beardall and staff of the Research Department, IoA. The children were rewarded with a Q&A; ending by receiving items from IoA for the correct answers. Following the presentation, they viewed a large display of artifacts from excavations from five of the 21 Maya sites of Ambergris Caye, including Blackadore Caye.

Doctor Love: Staying Put
Dear Doctor Love, My husband and I are having a real conflict about moving to San Pedro. He loves the idea of owning a beach condo and is ready to put the “For Sale” sign on our home in Indiana. I am in tears over the thought of leaving. He works from home and is comfortable in any situation, so it doesn’t affect him as far as income or fitting in. I have two very close friends with whom I craft and paint and I dread leaving them and trying to make new friends. I love my house and daily routine and space I have created for my hobbies. We are in our mid-fifties, if we do sell and move, there is no going back. I am sick with worry about this. What do I do? /s/ Staying Put

Misc Belizean Sources

Shooting victim passes away
About 4:05pm on Wednesday the 25.10.17, police responded to a shooting incident on Patridge street where 28 year old Cardinal Andrews of Burrel Boom Village was unconscious with a gun shot to the back of head with an exit wound to forehead. He was in a critical condition. Ref the above victim succumb to his injuries. On Sunday 29.10.2017 at 4:12 p.m. Andrews passed away.

LAST AN” FUSA TIE:THE BUS RACE TO BOOM;AND DI WINNER IS ???
Two busses get too close!

Friend called him out of home and shot him
On 29.10.2017 about 7:30 a.m. police responded to a a report of a shooting in Jane Usher area of Belize City, where James Swazo received 1 gunshot wound to the abdomen and 1 gunshot wound to the right leg. Swaso was called outside by someone he knew. When he went outside the friend shot him and then rode off on a bicycle. Swazo is listed in a critical condition at the KHMH. Police are investigating.

3 charged for &60k in cash & jewelry
On Thursday 26 October, 2017 at about 9:30 a.m. Belmopan police responded to a robbery report at Frist Stop Pawn shop on Constitution Drive in Belmopan City. The manager of First Stop Pawn Shop, Alexia Neal stated that at 9:20 a.m. two men entered the Pawn Shop, and 1 robber (Henry Sosa) pulled out a rusty handgun and demanded that she open the barred gate. They stole $8500 in cash and gold jewelry valued at $51,000 and 1 Samsung Galaxy S6 edge valued $1400.

Married couple in accident, wife dies
On Saturday October 28th 2017, police responded to a road traffic accident between Mile 11 and 12 on the Southern Highway. 35 year old Allen Andrews of Sittee River village was travelling along with his wife Mellisa Dorothy Murillo in the direction of Sittee River Village to Silk Grass Village where she lost control of the motorcycle and collided into a white truck. When police arrived they saw Murillo lying motionless on the right hand side of the road with multiple cut wounds to the body. Allen Andrews is presently admitted and is listed in a stable condition.

Job Opening at BEL
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for the post of Senior Business Analyst in the Corporate Services Division (Belize City).

Natural Resources and Environment House Committee Meeting POSTPONED
Oceana and the Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage have been informed that the Meeting of the Natural Resources and Environment Committee scheduled for Monday, 30 October 2017, to discuss the Petroleum Operations (Maritime Zone Moratorium) Bill, has been postponed until further notice. We have been informed that when the date and time is confirmed, the Office of the Clerk will inform us. Please rest assured that we will advise the public of that date as soon as we get it. PLEASE REST ASSURED WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE BOTH VIGILANT AND TRANSPARENT ON THIS ISSUE.

PUP CITY COUNCILOR CANDIDATE JUSTIN USHER ARRESTED!!!
Appearing drunk or otherwise under the influence of drugs, want to be Belize city councilor Justin Usher is video taped crying as he is arrested by Belize city police officers.

The Reporter

Man critical after being shot at home in Belize City
A Belize City man is listed in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was shot multiple times at his home this morning. The victim, James Swazo sustained a gunshot wound to his abdomen and another to his right leg after he responded to a knock at his front door. Police say that around 7:30 a.m., Swazo exited his home on Central American Boulevard and a gunman on a bicycle shot him amd fled.

Burnt human remains discovered off Coastal Road
The Reporter newspaper has officially confirmed that burnt human remains were found by a farmer off the Coastal road late Saturday evening. Our information is that the discovery was made in some bushes about 30 feet from the roadside, about 10 miles from La Democracia village. Trusted sources have confirmed that the identity nor the gender of the deceased could be established, since it was completely decomposed. It appears that the body was set on fire after it was placed at the location.

Man shot last week dies
Police, a few minutes ago, confirmed that a man who was shot in Belize City last week has died of his gunshot wound. Cardinal Andrews, who was shot last Wednesday evening on Partridge Street, died at 4:12 p.m., today. Andrews was shot in the back of the head as he sat on a car. The bullet penetrated his brain and exited the front portion of his head.

Several persons, including minor, reportedly shot
The Reporter has received unconfirmed but reliable reports that several persons were shot a few minutes ago in Belize City. The incident happened on Neal Penn Road and thr victims include two brothers, a minor and an elderly man. We do not know the names or the extent of the injuries they sustained, and are awaiting information from the police ar this point.

Woman dies in traffic accident
A hit and run accident between a motorcycle and a truck on the Southern highway Saturday night has claimed the life of a wife and mother, while her husband is in a serious condition at the Southern Regional Hospital. Preliminary information received is that sometime after 8:00 Saturday night, Melissa Murillo was driving a motorcycle from Sittee River to Silk Grass village, when she lost control of the motorcycle and crashed into a white truck. The accident happened between miles 11 and 12 on the Southern highway.

Breaking Belize News

Robert’s Grove Resort burglarized
Robert’s Grove Resort in Seine Bight village, Stann Creek district was targeted by thieves this week. According to police, on Thursday South African businessman and General Manager of Robert’s Grove Resort, Mark Ridge, 48, told cops that between between 5 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. that day, the Accountant’s Office was burglarized.

Police says shooting victim in a critical condition
This morning we reported on a shooting incident in the Jane Usher Boulevard area of Belize City. Police have subsequently released a report confirming the incident. Police say that at about 7:30 a.m. cops responded to the scene and found James Swazo suffering from two gun shot wounds.

Cardinal Andrews succumbs to gunshot injuries
Police say that Cardinal Andrews, 31, succumbed to his injuries at 4:12 p.m. today. On Thursday evening Andrews was sitting on a parked car on Partridge street in Belize City when a gunman rode up to him and opened fire.

Four men shot in Belize City
A shooting just now has left four men injured. Minutes ago we received reports of the incident and visited the scene on Pen Road in Belize City. We spoke to family members who told us that their loved ones were simply socializing when a gunman on a bicycle rode up to them and fired the shots.

James Swaso shot in Belize City
A Belize City man is fighting for his life at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) after a gunman knocked on his door. Sources say that the armed assailant visited the residence of James Swaso on Central American Boulevard at around 8 a.m. today.

Blogs

2017 Hanal Pixan was held in Corozal
A Mayan celebration of the famous Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Hanal Pixan is a time for family and friends to honor the memories of their deceased ancestors. Over the first two days of November, spirits are believed to return to the earth for a celebration of food, drink, and prayer. Their graves are decorated with gifts and fruit and altars are prepared with photographs, the iconic Mexican sugar skulls, and colorful flowers.In Mayan tradition, death comes in waves. The first death is, of course, a literal one and comes the moment that the human body ceases to function. A second death occurs with burial as the body is returned to the earth. Hanal Pixan is considered so important, though, because of the third kind of death: the end that comes when a person is no longer remembered or thought of by those still living. The stories and dances, poems and prayers that are characteristic of these days are meant to preserve the memory of those deceased, to help their spirits have some kind of immortality.

Nook Restaurant & Cocktail Bartique: 5 Cool Things To Keep You Coming Back
I hardly EVER go out at night – I am, by nature, a bit of a homebody and well…it’s hard taking pictures at night. But last week, we had friends in town – and they wanted to go out to eat. So Wednesday night we headed into town early. 5pm dinner at Nook Restaurant & Bartique on the beach. They have been open on Ambergris Caye for 2 years now! I met Erin, one of the the owner, a few years ago in Placencia in Southern Belize at another one of her creations, Mojo Lounge. (You can check out her first few weeks on Ambergris Caye here.) What I love about Nook is that it’s different – lounge-y and cool with a big front porch and lots of seating nooks inside… From 4pm to 6:30pm, all starters and cocktails are half price! HALF PRICE! And wait…on Wednesday, there’s more!

International Sources

What’s the Chance of a Caribbean Free Trade Agreement?
Recent years have seen a seismic shift in global politics. The election of US President Donald Trump, Brexit, and ongoing political turmoil in the European Union (EU) that’s seen imbalance between prosperous nations like Germany and embattled nations like Greece, has shaken the foundations of political consensus on globalization that existed for decades previously. This in tandem with China’s growth. Beijing’s growing global influence has seen many nations looking inwards and to protectionism, seeking to defend against the Chinese government’s currency manipulation, and other economic manoeuvres by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that have resulted in an uneven playing field in global trade for many nations.

First immigration affairs meeting held between Taiwan, Belize
Taiwan and Belize have held their first meeting on immigration affairs, according to a press release issued Sunday by the National Immigration Agency (NIA). The meeting was held late September in Taipei with the aim of strengthening bilateral immigration cooperation, allowing for shared data on crime and setting up platforms for exchange visits by immigration officials from each side, said the NIA. Belize Minister of State in the Ministry of Immigration Beverly Williams was invited by Taiwan's foreign ministry to attend the meeting, the NIA said.

Mission Cry on track to meet audacious goal
Have you ever set a goal that was so lofty that you knew, short of a miracle, there was no way you could meet it? That’s exactly what Jason Woolford and his team did at Mission Cry several months ago when they set out to equip the entire country of Belize with Bibles and Christian books. For recap, he says, “The goal was that every home in the entire country of Belize would have access to a free Bible or Christian book. Our goal was that by November 17th that that would come to pass. We’re so excited. We need to send six sea containers in order to fulfill those quantities to be able to freely distribute those Bibles and Christian books.”

Videos

Gray Fox, Farm 9, Monkey River road, .5min.

Officer exhibits poor manual dexterity outside Nightclub in Belmopan on Saturday night., 1.5min.

Church parade in Corozal., 2min.

Orange-breasted Falcon Plucking Prey, 1min. Orange-breasted Falcon (Falco deiroleucus) plucking prey, a Great-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus). Filmed in Belize, Central America in April 2017.

Placencia Players Theatre “Another Day in Paradise”, 47min. An amusing day in the life of ordinary people living in a Caribbean village. A diverse cast of characters are seeking their dreams and are brought together in a local bar. Connecting in unexpected ways may lead them to find or to lose paradise! Story by Mark Finnegan, Lynn Upham and Rebecca Walton Script by Rebecca Walton Performed in Placencia, Belize on April 9, 2017 at the Tipsy Tuna Seaside and Sports Bar (Please note: includes some mature content)

Placencia Players Theatre “Ebony Scrooge”, 45min. Performed December 18, 2016 at the Tipsy Tuna, Placencia Village, Belize. The premier production of Placencia Players Theatre, “Ebony Scrooge”, is a modern adaptation of Charles’ Dickens “A Christmas Carol “. While the Dickens story is set in turn of the century London, the Placencia Players Theatre version takes place today here in Placencia. The story hinges on how greedy Ebony Scrooge who dislikes Christmas has a change of heart after she is visited by three ghosts showing her past behavior and what could happen to her in the future if she doesn’t have a change in attitude.

Water Is Life, Volume Three, 5min.

The Great Blue Hole and Lighthouse reef Belize, 5.5min. We spend a day on a boat sailing through the open ocean to get to the Lighthouse Reef, the Blue Hole and charming atolls.

Un-belize-able Honeymoon, 4min. Spent 10 days with my new wife travelling all around Belize and finding all the adventurous things we could get ourselves into!

Belize, 4min. Lamanai Mayan Ruins & River Boat Safari.

Belize Mission Trip Report, 6min. Several of our youth and adult church members joined a group from the Kaneohe Seventh-day Adventist Church for a mission trip to Punta Gorda, Belize where they did construction and led a Vacation Bible School. This is a interesting and inspirational report by several of the group.

International judo Day Belize, 6min.

Belize NOW | Oct 27, 2017, 30min. (1)Belize host CARI COM - MEXICO Summit. (2)Ministry of Works moving forward in upgrading the Coastal Road. (3)Belize Social investment Fund teams up with CDB to launch a new project (4)Ministry of Rural Development hands over water supply equipment to Patchakan Water Board and Paraiso Village Council receives riding mower. (5)Intellectual Property and Innovation. (6)Launch of model guidelines for sexual offence in the Caribbean region.

Belize: (i Viaggi de Il Mondo Insieme), 13min. Dove la barriera corallina è patrimonio dell'umanità.

On the Beach at Sandy Toes Beach Bar on Ambergris Caye, Belize, 4.5min. Hey Everyone, It's William Narod, The Paradise Guy and today I am on the beach on Ambergris Caye at Sandy Toes. This cool little beach bar is located in the Boca Del Rio area just North of San Pedro Town.

October 29, 2017

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, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Adopt A Trash Can, Help Keep the Island Clean!
The DFC Eco-Rangers have accomplished a lot of cleaning-up since they began cleaning up their neighborhood. Their efforts have not gone unrecognized, and over time, there have been many businesses stepping in to provide them with supplies to keep meeting their goals. As part of their plan to keep La Isla Bonita Clean, they have expanded to an “Adopt a Trash Can” program, where businesses take responsibility for a specially designed trash can. Businesses ensure it is emptied, the area around it is clean, and that it is placed in a strategic place where it cannot be tipped over, but easily accessible for anyone to use. “The idea is for as many businesses to join in supporting the children’s efforts,” said Diane Klumb, leader of the original group of Eco-rangers. “These children are so proud of the changes they are making, and they love to see their painted buckets and trash receptacles being used instead of garbage flowing everywhere.”

Literacy program begins at New Horizon School
The New Horizon Seventh Day Adventist School (NHSDAS) literacy program began on Tuesday, October 24th. The program aims to increase students’ literacy, as well as to provide an educational space for children to complete their assignments. The Education Center was financed by donations received through the non-profit organizations ‘Raise Me Up.” The program is free to any student that is behind in reading, and there is no specific age range as to who can attend. ‘We have from infant II kids up to Standard 6”, said Raise Me Up’s Brittney O’Daniel. However, the literacy program is only open to students enrolled at NHSDAS. It is offered every week from Tuesday to Thursday, from 1AM to 3PM. “We would like to thank all the persons that donated to complete the Education Center, said O’ Daniel.

Misc Belizean Sources

THE FINAL CALL: BELIZEANS!
Belizeans are in for a rude and wicked awakening as the Guatemalan militaristic/oligarchy eagerly mobilizes and pushes for what they believe is theirs – Belize! The regime has made public its commitment to seal this quest by allocating $14 million for public brainwashing upon its citizens and an additional $32 million for its referendum. The excitement and aggressiveness that permeates the regime’s approach to finally settle its protracted territorial claim to Belize is likened to a predator closing in on its prey. Meanwhile, the handful of career politicians and bureaucrats who have enjoyed a monopoly on national leadership in the tiny nation of Belize agreed to collaborate.

Two brothers collapse, One dies
About 7:45am on 28.10.17, 54 year old Ryan Swift, a Pesticide Controller of a C.A. Boulevard and his brother 61 year old Steven Swift, a retiree of same address were socializing in the lower flat of there residence when Ryan experience difficulty breathing and had a seizure and collapsed. Steven went across the boulevard for assistance and he collapsed while suffering from a seizure. Ryan was pronounced dead on arrival at the KHMH at 8:20 a.m. while Steven is in a critical condition.

Corozal Animal Program (CAP) animal education class
Thanks to the Church of Christ school the Corozal Animal Program (CAP) held an animal education class that I'm so glad I was able to be a part of. While a couple members taught the kids to walk their dogs on a leash & how to get them to sit I had a chat with another group about sterilization, how to read dogs to stop dog bites and taking care of their dogs. I think it was an awesome learning experience for everyone (including me, I am def not meant to be a teacher!!!).

Rotary Green Project 2017
The Rotaract Club of San Ignacio took some time to plant some trees around Cayo. Thanks, Rotaract! "Today Rotaract participated in Rotary Green Project; members went to Falcon Field, Victor Galvez Stadium, and Santa Elena Primary school to plant several trees."

Crazy Canucks First Annual Halloween BASH
A HUGE thank you to all you crazy partiers for making our First Annual Halloween BASH amazing! Here are the prize winners: Judges’ Choice: Mel- Corpse Bride. Best couple/group: Kevin & Donna- Bee and beekeeper. Most creative- Ronnie & Lisa- Sharknado and Tara Reid. And a great big thank you to our sponsor, OLD Master Fine Rum and our favorite DJ, DJ Smallz.

The Reporter

Dollar van driver dies of gunshot injury
A Haitian dollar van driver who who was shot late Friday evening has died of the gunshot wound to his right upper back. Police confirmed today that 40-year-old Odner Estizeine died about an hour after the incident. Reports from the Police Press Office reveals that around 5:15 p.m. Friday evening, the deceased was driving his grey Dodge van at the corner of Complex Avenue and Jones Street when he came under heavy gunfire. A witness on the scene claims that after the shots were fired, Estizeine was seen fleeing from out of his vehicle, but collapsed a couple feet away. Police would not say whether the incident was triggered by a robbery or if anyone has been detained.

Obesity a real problem, says Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health, in conjunction with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and other stakeholders, converged at the Radisson Fort George Hotel on Friday to discuss, strategize and update on the rising trend of obesity in Belize. Dr. Francis Morey, deputy Director of Health Services in the Ministry says that a survey conducted over 10 years ago revealed that obesity was present in 48 percent of Belize’s population. Morey explained that the focus of the consultations with the various entities was to develop a strategic plan geared at updating the data so that the Ministry could address the issue. It is expected that the plan will be rolled out in the months ahead.

Brothers collapse while socialising; one dead, one critical
Police are investigating an incident in which two brothers who were socialising collapsed minutes of each other from seizures, and one died and the other is in a critical condition. Police say the incident happened between 7:30 and 8:00 this morning when Ryan Swift, 54, a Pest Controller of Central American Boulevard and Steven Swift, 61, of the same address, were socializing in the lower flat of there residence. Ryan began experiencing difficulty breathing and suffered a seizer and collapsed. Steven sought help across the boulevard, but he too collapsed and suffered a seizure. The brothers were rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where Ryan Swift was pronounced dead at 8:20 a.m. Steven Swift remains critical.

Breaking Belize News

Dollar van driver shot yesterday passes away
A man shot at around 5 pm yesterday succumbed to his injuries an hour later becoming the 50th person to be killed on south side since January 2017. Police say that the Haitian taxi driver, Odner Estizeine, 40, died just before 6 pm last night from a gunshot wound to the right upper side of his back.

Heart to Heart Belize’s Gala Dinner a success
Heart to Heart Belize and Anointed House of Worship Church held their first gala dinner last night. The objective of the dinner was to present their vision and mission as a church and organization to community stakeholders.

Two brothers collapse from seizure, one dies
This morning around 7:45, Ryan Swift ,54, a Belizean Pesticide Controller of Central American Boulevard and his brother Steven Swift,61, were socializing in the lower flat of their home when Ryan began to experience difficulty breathing.

Star in my Community: Cpl. Jason Jones
This week’s Star in my Community is Cpl. Jason Jones. Jason Jones was born in Belmopan in 1978 to Mr. and Mrs. Charles and Linda Jones. Jones attended the Stann Creek Methodist Primary. He was later transferred to the Corozal Methodist Primary and completed his primary education at the Wesley Primary in Belize City. Jason attended Wesley college from 1991 and completed his high school education in 1995.

Belmopan Police recover stolen items
This morning, Officer Commanding Belmopan Police, Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett informed that Belmopan police officers have recovered 95 percent of the jewelry that was stolen from First Stop pawn shop this week.

Taxi man found dead in Dangriga
Yesterday morning around 9:30, Dangriga police visited an Orange Orchard between miles 1 and 2 on the Southern Highway where cops saw the body of a Hispanic man on his back with a large cut wound to his throat.

Elderly woman from Benque Viejo Del Carmen missing
According to reports, an elderly woman from Benque Viejo del Carmen is missing. The family of Rita Cunil is asking for the public’s assistance in locating her.

Blogs

Island Style Recycling and Household Battery Collection
I just ordered three 5 quart clear, thick polycarbonate body battery recycling containers after having secured a few locations to be “collection depots”. Harmouch Center, Castillo Hardware, and SP Hardware are all on board. Extra thanks go to Harmouch; they were the first ones I approached and they immediately recognized this is a much-needed idea and offered to bring in the containers. I just got word today from Amazon they are in transit and will arrive at Hyde Shipping sometime between Wednesday, November 1st and Monday, November 7th. Hooray. Thankfully both the Department of Environment (DOA) and solid waste communications officer have been helpful. I have started doing my homework and printed out “Managing Uses Lead Acid Batteries” (sent by DOA) and “Household Batteries and the Environment,” that my editor Shirlee found. Now to put the rest of the puzzle together and figure out the required paperwork to barge or land transfer them out of the country and to a safe and proper recycling facility.

A morning view in Corozal
If you are a person who loves to travel and have a quiet vacation? Then, Corozal is one of the best places to travel in Belize. One of the laid-back towns especially for back backers who are just wanting to relax. On Thursday morning, I came out to take some phot's of Corozal along the beach in Corozal. The morning, was quite lovely and cool while walking on the beach. You will see a lot of things being changed in town. and, the road was fixed at Central Park. It took one day for those men at Central Park to repair the middle of the road. Residents in Corozal where wandering about a machine that is sampling soil in Corozal. It's machinery to sample soil in order to determine stability or composition prior to the development of the cultural heritage Plaza. This was confirmed by CTC. It is not oil related.

Videos

This is how La Isla Bonita celebrates Halloween!,.5 min.

A RELEVANT CONVERSATION ABOUT AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITY IN BELIZE!, 16min. This classic documented show featuring two of Belize's most respected Belizean legends, the late Ishmael Omar Shabazz and David Alexander Buddan who both passed away in the same year of 2014; comes to us here at “Belizean Legends” with one of the most heartfelt memories of the way they are remembered as two of the most hard working Belizeans in the diaspora in the 1980s . That it strikes a very important chord with yours truly who had come to know them both in the best of times. And It also resurrects the memories of the laughter and joy that was shared between them who crossed each other’s path at what time or the other despite their age differences, beliefs and varied opinions either from politics to religion, or from the different directions that they both undertook in their lives.

Diving Blue hole of Belize, September 2017, 1min.

Diving Blue hole of Belize, #2, September 2017, 2min.

Landing San Pedro Belize Tropic Air C208, 4min. Landing in San Pedro Belize Underwater sharks Fish.

Miss Earth Belize 2017- IRIS SALGUERO, 3min.

Belize Tourism Board 2017 Small Accommodation of the Year - Caribbean Beach Cabanas, 2.5min.

History of Hanna Stables and Nabitunich Eco Lodge, 15min. Rudy Juan of Hanna Stables and Nabitunich gives us a history of this family-owned Belize eco-lodge. Learn how the famous Belize horseback riding establishment started and how Santiago Juan came to be the current owner.

Cloudy day in Belize, 3min.

October 28, 2017

Salvation Army students celebrating their #1 position at the end of the 2017 Belize City Primary School History and Social Studies Competition, 5sec.

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, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

San Pedro Volleyball Tournament: Week Three
The San Pedro Volleyball tournament continues at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium in San Pedro Town. The third week of the tournament began on Saturday, October 21st, with the first game taking place at 1pm. The San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS) girls triumphed over Isla Bonita girls, with a 21-4 and 21-11 in the second set. The player of the game was Emely SPRCS. The next game saw SPRCS boys facing Isla Bonita boys, with the SPRCS boys winning both sets, 21-8 and 21-17. The players of the match were Calion and Damion from SPRCS with eight points each, and Isla Bonita’s Lara with 10 points. Games continue this weekend on Sunday, October 29th, starting at 1pm at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. Islanders and volleyball enthusiasts are invited to come out and support their favorite team.

Heavy Rains and flooded streets frustrate Ambergris Caye residents
The San Pedro Sun made several attempts to reach Mayor Daniel Guerrero but were told that he was on sick leave. In the past, The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has simply indicated that nothing can be done during the rainy season. In an interview with The San Pedro Sun in December of 2015, Mayor Guerrero himself said that it would make no sense to fix roads during the rainy period because they would have to back and fix them again. During that time, island residents were dealing with deplorable street conditions due to heavy rains. Despite works done on the damaged streets when the rain stopped, when the rainy season returned the following year, the infrastructure was no match for the initial showers. Mayor Guerrero made no mention of preventative measures for the annual, expected heavy rains. October is considered to be the rainiest month of the year in Belize, thus, residents believe that the roads should be in good shape so as to avoid a severe impact during the rainy season.

Imer Hernandez Development Company Limited to Construct Caye Caulker Airstrip
A multi-million-dollar contract for the Caye Caulker airstrip reconstruction has been awarded to the company of Imer Hernandez Development Company Limited, which has caused much controversy. Hernandez is the nephew of former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, whose name has been linked to many land scandals. The Caye Caulker airstrip was closed on October 1st after Tropic and Maya airlines suspended their services due to its dire conditions. As a result, the Government of Belize (GOB) through the Belize Airport Authority, negotiated with the Social Security Board (SSB) to acquire part of a seven-million-dollar loan to repair the airstrip, which is the third most trafficked airport in the country. Hernandez is considered GOB’s contractor of choice, having been granted several construction contracts nationwide, including the controversial eight-million-dollar contract for the one-mile stretch of Faber’s Road in Belize City.

Guatemala to hold referendum on territorial dispute with Belize in 2018
The government of the Republic of Guatemala has set Sunday, March 18, 2018, as the date when their referendum on the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute will be held. The official announcement was made on Monday, October 23rd at the Tikal Futura Hotel in Guatemala City by that country’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal. It is expected that around seven million Guatemalans will vote whether the centennial territorial dispute between both countries should be taken to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Misc Belizean Sources

Take Advantage of Belize Mission Project's Dental Services at the Lions Den through next week...
They are back, the Belize Mission Project serving the country of Belize with the highest quality of dentistry. Here to serve you for 2 weeks; Monday to Thursday from 8am-5pm and half day of Fridays. Thank you Belize Mission Project!

Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
We will be playing 6 different horror movies on Screen 2 this weekend. That means, 2 different movies every night. Make sure you come for the movie you'd like to see on the correct night as there are no repeats. Horror Fest: FRIDAY: Better Watch Out at 7, Monster Project 9. SATURDAY: Shortwave at 7, Annabel Creation at 9. SUNDAY: Dark Song at 7, Baskin at 9. ONLY $25 FOR ACCESS TO ALL HORROR MOVIES! CARS 3 @ 7pm and ATOMIC BLONDE @ 9pm are playing every night on Screen 1.

Ocean Hero 2017, Madison Pearl, using her Halloween costume to speak up for the Belize Barrier Reef
highlighting its beauty as well as the threats it faces daily! "I am the Belize Barrier Reef! I am full of life, but my life is in YOUR hands. I depend on you to protect me from things like plastic, gill nets, toxic waste and oil spills. You can defend and protect me, or you can destroy me. My future depends on YOU"

NEMO: TROPICAL CYCLONES ACTIVITY IN OUR REGION
NEMO and the National Met Service hereby inform the general public that as at 2:00 p.m., showers and thunderstorms associated with a broad Area of Low Pressure (93L) located over the north western Caribbean Sea are beginning to show signs of organization. The broad Area of Low Pressure (93L) has a medium to high chance of development into a tropical cyclone within the next 48 hours. Environmental conditions are expected to be conducive, and a tropical depression or tropical storm is likely to form later today or Saturday as the system moves northward over the north-western Caribbean Sea before turning north eastward by late Saturday. The Area of Low Pressure (93L) is currently located east of Belize near 17.5 North Latitude and 84.5 West Longitude. The models are all in consensus for this potential system to moved northwards and then north-eastward away from Belize. It is currently moving slowly northward towards Jamaica, and Cuba, and is forecasted to continue track towards the Bahamas over the weekend. At this time the Area of Low Pressure (93L) does not pose a threat to Belize. Most of the heavy winds and rains are on the eastern side of the system, over the sea.

Belize making great strides in the medical field. Congrats to Belize Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Center in paving the way towards better health care in the country
History was again achieved at our center as Dr Joel Cervantes and Dr Andres Vasquez performed the first ever placement of a lumbo-peritoneal shunt on a 77 year old male with a 2 year history of a special type of dementia known as Hakim-Adams syndrome or Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus of the Adult. The surgery was highly successful with the patient leaving the hospital walking on his own and already demonstrating excellent signs of recovery from his dementia.

Government Did Not Boycott Public Accounts Committee Meeting
The Government of Belize wishes to make it clear that the Government side did not boycott the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Meeting slated for October 26th, 2017. The first meeting of PAC to consider the Auditor General’s Report 2012/2013 was held on August 27th, 2017 and attended by all members from both sides. At that meeting, the schedule for the next three meetings was set along with the terms of reference for how the report would be handled. The scheduled meeting of October 12th was called off at the request of the Chairman, Hon. Julius Espat. The Government side asked for a postponement of the meeting scheduled for yesterday, October 26th, because two ministers reported they were down with pink eye and another minister came down with the flu.

Statistical Institute of Belize and Ministry of Health Partner for Survey of Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease
The Statistical Institute of Belize, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, informs the public that we currently have teams of interviewers in the field conducting the country’s first ever Survey of Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease. This survey is part of a larger project aimed at diagnosing patients in the early stages of Chronic Kidney Disease, thereby preventing the worsening of the disease and decreasing the negative socio-economic impacts it has on the country. Here’s what you can expect if your household is selected to be a part of the survey:

Statement concerning the Lake Independence Blvd design
Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) issues statement concerning the Lake Independence Blvd design and construction in order to fully clarify the involvement of BIL in the execution of this project as well as correct several allegations that stand inaccurate today. BIL was brought into the design as the urban planning agency to achieve three main goals. 1. To prepare a master plan for +50 acre development inclusive of the road link between two heavily trafficked highways. The challenge posed was to ensure that the size and design of the road would sustain future development and growth for that area including critical future traffic volumes, pedestrian circulation, public transportation, freight movement and private autos as part of a major need for the added accessibility and alleviation of the traffic to the city. This goal was no doubt achieved.

IDB hosts Advanced-level Certification Course to Support Government’s Capacity Building Efforts in Public Procurement
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has partnered with the Government of Belize (GOB) in the delivery of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)-Accredited Diploma in Strategic Public Procurement (Level 4) course to train and certify public sector procurement professionals in Belize. The course brings together twenty-six (26) professionals from the IDB’s Project implementation Units, GoB’s Procuring Entities and various Ministries to undergo a week-long, advanced-level procurement training, which was held a few weeks ago. In addition, participants are to submit a written essay over the next eight (8) weeks. Upon successful completion, candidates will receive their CIPS accredited Diploma in Strategic Public Procurement (Level 4).

Belize City Primary School History and Social Studies Competition Winners
Today, the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation held the Finals for the Belize City Primary School History and Social Studies Competition. The competition is part of the public education campaign for the Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project. A total of seven primary schools participated in today’s competition at the Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts. At the end of the day, the top three participants took home grand prizes for their hard work.

BNTU WARNS PRIME MINISTER DEAN BARROW
The BNTU is sounding a warning to Prime Minister Dean Barrow that, “his continued actions and the actions of his Ministers are clear indication that the Belizean people are being taken for fools!” The BNTU says that it will not sit idly by and allow the Barrow Administration or any administration to act as if though they are not accountable to the people.

NEW GOB's Controlled Pump Prices
Effective Date: Saturday, 28th October 2017

Mini golf and soccer weekend at Rainbow Beach
It is a mini golf and soccer weekend today Saturday, October 28th and Sunday, October 29th at Rainbow Beach starting at 10:00 a.m. Come out and bring out the kids and family. Please share!

Spooktacular
Corozal Junior College Auditorium! Oct 31, 9am-11am

Job Vacancy at BEL
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for the post of Manager, Customer Care Department (Belize City).

Diabetes Run 2017
"Belize Diabetes Run is a momentous twenty-three (23) miles run that was created on May 24th 2015 to catapult an awareness about the dangers of Diabetes. Our dream is to contribute to the prevention and elimination of this deadly disease, which is a leading killer of Belizeans and people across the globe. Yet there are very little awareness of such disease, and the effect that are associated with diabetes, and all other forms of chronic non communicable disease namely: Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure and Cancer. This year Our 23 Miles Diabetes Run will be held on Saturday November 4, 2017 in commemoration of World Diabetes Day Program of events 2017. Aim of the event is to highlight the role of physical activity in prevention/reversal of Type 2 Diabetes."

Belize City Primary School History and Social Studies Competition
The 2017 Belize City Primary School History and Social Studies Competition has come to an end. The contest was fierce and close all the way to the end. In the end, the Wild Card School, Salvation Army, took the lead in the first round and never let it go. Their constestant, Darwin Robinson, defied all odds and won the History Cup for his school with a total of 1450 points. Second place went to Ebenezer Methodist School's Aniq Perdomo with a score of 1,300 points and third place went to St Joseph Roman Catholic School's Aritza Sosa with 1,250 points. We would like to congratulate all schools that participated in this year's event.

Belize Museum Director and Associate Director in Miami
Our very own Director and Associate Director participated in the Museum Association of the Caribbean's conference & AGM this past week. MAC 2017 was held in Miami and saw participants coming from all over the Caribbean as well as southern United States.

The Belize Jazz 'N Culture Show
Nov. 4, 7:30pm, Pickwick Club

Channel 7

Another Cabbie Killed, This One In Griga
Another taxi man has been murdered - this time it's in Dangriga. This morning around 9:00 farm workers at an Orange Orchard between miles one and two on the Southern Highway found 32 year old Jose Alfredo Majil dead beside his taxi - a Ford Escort with Dangriga plates. His throat had been slit - and police believe it happened within the 12 hours of finding him dead. The taxi was parked about 100 yards from the highway. Majil was a Dangriga resident - but police have no clues yet as to what led to his death. They note that in May, 2015 he was charged for drug trafficking 25 pounds of weed in Arenal. That is one angle investigators are looking at.

Police Launch Major Operation In City's Hotspots
And while that 120th murder of 2017 happened in the south - on the southside of Belize City tonight, police are trying a new approach by going on the offensive. After three months which tallied a record number of murders - they've launched a major intensive operation called ACT. Today the police commissioner - flanked by all his senior commanders and his minister called the media to the Raccoon street station to explain what it is all about:... Allen Whylie, Commissioner of Police: "The Belize Police Department has launched a special anti-crime operation code name "ACT" which basically means "Addressing Crime Together"." And today that meant installing these command centers in the St. Martin's, Collet and Jane usher Areas. They insert a fixed police presence in these gang ridden and violence torn communities.

Police Plan to Cut Off Weed Supply
And while the new operation can be cynically interpreted as just more boots on the ground - as we mentioned, there's also the mediation element. It's left to be seen how that will be balanced against pure police force, but according to ACP Williams - there is another element. He says police plan to reduce the supply of marijuana to the city - the same high grade marijuana which is fueling the gang wars. Williams says that by reducing the supply, it should take an edge off the violence:... ACP Chester Williams: "One of the purposes of the operation is to see how we can reduce the importation of marijuana into the city. That itself will create some scarcity where marijuana is concerned and that should, to some extent, diffuse certain aspect of the tension; it is time now to put it to an end. I always say to them, it takes a fool or a coward to pick up a gun and shoot but it takes a real general to end a war."

Another Shooting In St. Martin's, Not Far From Police Command Center
And while police are swarming the St. Martin's area - they still couldn't do anything to stop another broad daylight shooting - this one just about a half a mile from where they have their command on Flamboyant Street. It happened on Complex Street at about five minutes to five. Very preliminary information says that a Haitian Dollar Van driver, 40 year old Odner Estizeine was shot to the upper back. Eyewitnesses tell us he ran out of his van and collapsed on the street about 200 feet away. Estizeine lives nearby on Nutmeg Street. He is presently in the operating theater. We saw police laying more than ten evidence markers.

Bail For Alex And Austin, Suspicions Linger About Planted Bullet
On Wednesday, we told you about the two SSG figures, brothers, Alex and Austin Underwood who were remanded for possession of a single round of prohibited ammunition. Well, today they both went for Supreme Court bail. 24 year old Austin had no trouble getting his, but it was a little more complicated for Alex Underwood. Still he managed to get bail this afternoon and is now home pending trial. But, the case is a little more complicated, because the Underwoods claim that police planted that round of 5.56 ammunition in their yard. Their attorney Dickie Bradley explained it to us at court today: Richard "Dickie" Bradley, Underwood Attorney: "There appears to have been some kind of video footage of the police officers entering the Underwood's yard shortly after midnight. The search is said to have found a single round of ammunition in a blue plastic stuck somewhere by the fence."

Selma To Send Rains
Tonight, NEMO is advising Belizeans to keep an eye on the weather this weekend - because there are two systems that bear watching. The first is a broad area of Low Pressure called "Invest 93L". The experts say it could become a tropical storm within the next 48 hours. Now, they stress "At this time the Area of Low Pressure (93L) DOES NOT pose a threat to Belize" and all the models say it will move northwards and then north-east away from Belize. Additionally even when it slides pass Belize, most of the heavy winds and rains are concentrated on the eastern side of the system, over the sea. So, we should be pretty ok with that one, but there's also Tropical Storm SELMA which is in the south-eastern Pacific Ocean. SELMA is expected to make landfall on the Pacific border of El Salvador and Guatemala this weekend. NEMO warns that Flooding, rain and mudslides are likely to threaten lives and property in parts of Central America, regardless of SELMA's strength.

Detainee Found Dead, Suicide Suspected
A man died in police custody today. It happened in Maskall where this morning at 11:30, the police officer on duty at the village station found 50 year old detainee Mario Herrera hanging from the cell window. He had been detained an hour earlier for the breach of a protection order. Police say no signs of physical violence were observed and right now it is being treated as a suicide. The body has been transported to the KHMH pending a post mortem examination.

BIL Flips The Script On Broken Boulevard
For the past week, Belize Infrastructure Limited, known as BIL has been all over the news. No less than the Prime Minister suggested that BIL's manager Christy Mastry is to blame for the disaster that is Lake - I Boulevard. For those not familiar with the name, that's the street connecting the new bridge to the Western Highway. Well, today BIL issued a 700 word press release to change the narrative in this blame game. They say they were called in to design a mile long, 100 foot wide road including sidewalks, easements and lighting, all on a 3.25 million dollar budget and a tight timeline. They say that they employed standard construction practices used in the past on both Northern and Western Highways. But they messed up on the fill, and the release says, quote, "We now expect that some form of stone-based fill will have to be placed similar to ongoing construction on the Philip Goldson Highway.

Cardinal Andrews Clings To Life, Cops Look For A Suspect
He was shot right through the head - But Cardinal Andrews continues to cling to life at the KHMH this evening. He was shot on Wednesday evening on Partridge Street - which is in the embattled St. Martin's area. Today police said that his shooting was not a consequence of the current rash of gang related violence in that community:... ASP Alejandro Cowo, OC - CIB: "We have a suspect that we are looking for at the moment. Apart from that there is no other information in regards as to the exact motive." Jules Vasquez, reporter: "As a part of this ongoing rivalry we have seen within PIV area where certain people were targeted for execution."

One Killer, Two Dead, Two Motives
Cowo also spoke about this week's other murders in the Martin's area. Sydney Lamb was killed on Saturday night and Shaquan Almendarez was killed on Sunday. Police say they were killed for different reasons, but possibly by the same person. Here's how Cowo put it. ASP Alejandro Cowo: "We are confident; we have a person that we are looking for at this moment. We have sent a message to all formations in the entire country looking for a suspect and as soon as we have that person, definitely I can guarantee you that we'll have an arrest for those murders." Reporter: "Have you established whether those two murders are in any way related?" ASP Alejandro Cowo: "No, they are separate incidents."

Cops Say Rocke Not Cooperating
And the city's other shooting this week happened on Tuesday night - when Judith Rocke and her grand-daughter Mali Herrera were hit. The two were in their living room watching the news when a gunman shot from the street into their home. Rocke received a minor injury, but Mali Hererra was hit in the back and it went right through her abdomen. Today, police told us what they know about the shooting and her condition:.. ASP Alejandro Cowo- OC, CIB: "We know that there was a previous misunderstanding some days ago where some of the family members and the suspect that were involved in the shooting that led to that shooting. But unfortunately, I have to tell you that the police has been behind them, trying to convince them to come in and give a statement."

Rosado Accused GOB Of Using GST To Shut Him Down
Yohny Rosado has been in the news many times as a member of FECTAB - fighting the big cruise lines, and the foreign owned power players in the cruise tourism industry. But today he called a press conference to fight for himself! Rosado has been assessed as owing over half a million dollars in GST. Today, he called a press conference to say it's unfair:... Yohny Rosado - CaveTubing.com: "They have given me the results of a default of $600 thousand. As you know the GSU is trying to get rid of all the opposition, of all the criminals and the GST is trying to get rid of all the outspoken persons. This amount of default by GST on behalf of me, on behalf of my business, this is for you to get a gun and shoot yourself. This a ridiculous number; I don't even think I owe $600 thousand. But the GST have defaulted me of $600 thousand. This is not a default, this is corruption because they could have found me in default in the first year or in the first second month. If I miss GST right now, next Monday they penalize me but they audited me because I'm talking too much."

BNTU Says GOB Boycotted PAC
Last night you heard the PUP members of the Public Accounts Committee complain about the four UDP members who did not show up for the meeting. The PUP called it a boycott. Well, the BNTU has joined that chorus. Today the union issued a release condemning the four ministers who were no-shows. The union concludes, quote, "it is an obvious boycott of the process and blatant disrespect of the Belizean populaceâ€¦" The release concludes with fire. It says, quote, "we therefore wish to sound a warning to Prime Minister Barrow that his continued actions and the actions of his ministers is clear indication that the Belizean people are being taken for fools!â€¦We will not sit idly by and allow this or any administration to act as if though they are not accountable go the people who put them into power" End quote.

Kareem Kicked Off PUP Unity Slate
It's official, the PUP will have what's called a "Unity Convention" on November 26th. That's the term used when there are no challenges for any of the official posts. The deadline for nominations was at 4:00 pm today and the news is that none of the positions will be contested. But there is one change in the executive. Kareem Musa is not on John Bricneo;s slate. As Briceno told us - he failed to answer on whether he wanted to be on the Briceno slate, so he has been replaced with Briceno loyalist Anthony Mahler.

Cops Say He Tried To Kill His Ex
Last night, we told you about 28-year-old Gilbert Anthony Palacio. He allegedly cut his ex common law fie, 45-year-old Alexia Del Carmen Melendez to the neck in a San Pedro street assault. She told police that they recently had a misunderstanding. Palacio was charged with grievous harm and use of a deadly weapon and today he appeared in court before Magistrate Michelle Trapp. No plea was taken because the offences are indictable and the court could not offer him bail. Palacio was remanded into custody until January 11th, 2018.

Police On Top Of First Stop Pawnshop Robbery
Tonight, Belmopan police have moved quickly to close in on the men who robbed First Stop Pawn shop at gunpoint of cash and jewelry totaling sixty thousand dollars. Presently two persons are in custody and the cops have also recovered some of the jewelry and cash. They believe that they perpetrators are from a Belize City gang, contracted by a former employee to pull off the heist.

How To Bring Obesity Under Control
Today the Ministry of Health held a consultation conference to talk about controlling Obesity in Belize - which is rated as one of the top 20 fattest countries on earth. The Deputy Director of Health Services told us why they are working with different stakeholders on the plan. Dr. Francis Murray, Deputy Director of Health Services: "Obesity in our country we basically, currently only have data that goes up to what we did call the CANDIS survey. The survey then showed that we had levels of obesity of more than 48% that was approximately 7 to 10 years ago, so almost half of our population suffers from this condition. The purpose of this strategic plan is also to update that profile."

Another "White Van" Scare
Recently, there's been a social media public scare about a Kidney study that the ministry is conducting along with the Statistical Institute of Belize. The scare is that someone who was dropped off in a white tinted van with no identification and unmarked attire appeared at houses and asked questions about each families kidney medical history. After asking questions the person then requested that a blood test be taken. The individuals refused to give the blood test and the individual left. Well, the Statistical Institute of Belize along with the Ministry of Health sent out a press release this afternoon to clear things up. First, the Ministry confirmed that it was not them who appeared at those houses. Even though they are running the study they stated that if your household is selected you can expect a trained interviewer who will have on a SIB shirt along with a SIB identification card.

Engineering Students Making Moves with Macaroni
Today the engineering students of the University of Belize came together to compete in a construction competition. They had to build a crane module but the material they used to build the crane was not your regular lego blocks or erector sets. They used macaroni. Yes, that's right, macaroni. Leonard Mortis of UB explained the reasoning behind the macaroni to us this morning. Leonard Mortis, University of Belize Chair of the Engineering Department of the Faculty of Science and Technology: "It is something we have been doing since 2010 and we got the idea from and we got the idea from Chetumal one of our past lecturers brought the idea to us and since 2010 we have been doing an annual local macaroni competition."

Wild Card Winner In Social Studies Quiz
Last week we told you about the winners from the primary school History and Social Studies zone eliminations, Well today the 7 finalists came together to battle it out for the title of first place, and the final winner was the most unexpected candidate: A wild card who barely made it to the finals. 7 news was there to capture the victor in his glory, and of course the other contestants that put their all into the competition. Sahar Vasquez, reporter: "Now Darwin you came into this competition as a wild card. How did you get to win this competition? What did you do?" Darwin Robinson, 1st Place Winner (Salvation Army School): "I just had luck and knowledge." "It was hard for me at first but when I knew it, it was easy."

Aurelio Arrives To Judge Song Competition
October is coming to a close with Christmas right around the corner, but before that, we have November which is the month we celebrate the Garinagu. The festivities have already begun with a Garifuna song competition which started in September. It's coming down to the final tonight when all competing artists will come out to perform head to head. Five lucky artists will go home with awards and an opportunity to showcase Garifuna music to the world. Darius Avila told us more about competition and he also brought along a special guest that flew in to be a part of the competition. Darius Avila, President of the Battle of the Drums: "Well actually tonight is the night where we have the awards. We will issue the awards and we will also have a mega concert that follows so as part of the awards each finalist of the competition will be showcasing their song. They will be performing their song and after which we will be issuing out the awards."

Channel 5

Haitian Taxi Driver Shot Critically in Lake
The Belize Police Department has launched a new offensive on gang-related crimes in the city. We will show you what is being done in an attempt to curb the spike [...]

Police Prepare to ACT
Police today launched an initiative called ACT, which stands for Addressing Crime Together, to tackle the spiralling urban violence related to gang activities. ACT will boost police presence in three [...]

New Wheels on the Ground
Minister of State Elodio Aragon Junior whose office is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Belize Police Department, says the plan of action has the full support of the [...]

Dangriga Taximan Found with Throat Slit on Southern Highway
While police put more boots on the ground in the city, police in southern Belize continue investigations into the apparent murder of thirty-two-year-old Jose Alfredo Majil, a taxi operator based [...]

1 Individual Sought for Lamb/Almendarez Murders – They Are Not Related
A pair of relatives is being laid to rest this weekend, following a series of murders in the Lake Independence area over the past few days. The family and friends [...]

Cardinal Andrews Still Fighting for Life
Twenty-eight-year-old Cardinal Andrews was shot once in the back of the head on Wednesday and remains in a life-threatening condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Tonight, his attacker remains [...]

As Granddaughter Recovers, Family in New Road Incident Clam Up to Police
Seven-year-old Malli Herrera was the unintended target of a gunman who opened fire on a New Road residence on Tuesday night in Belize City. The Saint Joseph School student was [...]

Brothers Underwood on Bail; Accuse Police of “Planting” Live Round
Brothers Alexander Underwood, twenty-eight, and Austin, twenty-four, have made bail on a single charge of possession of prohibited ammunition, to wit, a single five-point-five-six round allegedly found on their property [...]

Family Claims Heavy Police Harassment
Following Underwood’s release from custody this evening, News Five spoke with one of his relatives. She says that there is indeed surveillance footage which purportedly captured a team of officers [...]

No Bail for Warren Lewis
Judge Herbert Lord today handed down a decision in the bail application of twenty-six-year-old Warren Lewis, accused of the August eighteenth 2009 murder of Albert Braddick Allen. Lewis’ attorney, Darrell [...]

Pacific Storm to Dump Rain in South, Central Belize
The National Meteorological Service and National Emergency Management Organization are advising Belizeans to get ready for a wet weekend. Tropical Storm Selma in the south-east Pacific is expected to move [...]

Yhony Rosado Spills Tale of Woe
The General Sales Tax Unit says Yhony Rosado owes over half a million dollars, but the firebrand FECTAB front man says not so! Today, Rosado and his colleagues, along with [...]

For Tour Operators, ‘Plantain Noh Eat Like Rice’
Are the Belize Tourism Board’s tourist stats bogus? That is what the Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize says. David Almendarez, a tour operator and member of FECTAB, says [...]

Pawnshop Robbed in Belmopan
Three persons are tonight in police custody pending further investigation into the armed robbery of a pawn shop in the Capital City of Belmopan. Around nine-thirty on Thursday morning, police [...]

Maskall Villager’s Death Leaves Shocked Residents with Many Questions
We don’t generally report on cases of suicide, but it is unusual to have deaths occur in a police station, as this one did. Fifty-one-year-old Mario Herrera of Maskall village, [...]

Gavin Courtenay, Son of Eamon, Called to the Bar
Four young men and one woman were called to the Bar of Belize this morning at the Supreme Court. It was a grand occasion, featuring the return of Eastern Caribbean [...]

4 New Attorneys Called Including Magistrate
Joining the younger Courtenay on the roll are Magistrate Carlon Mendoza and two young attorneys out of the Marine Parade Chambers founded by Godfrey Smith. Hector Guerra is from San [...]

P.U.P. Gets No Challengers for Johnny
It’s now official: there are no challengers to People’s United Party leader John Briceño or indeed any others on the unity slate for the National Executive. Today, at four p.m., [...]

26th Time Lucky? Cuba Appeals to U.N. against U.S. Embargo
On November first, at the United Nations General Assembly, the Cuban Government will yet again table a resolution entitled, “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by [...]

Teachers and Government Spar over Aborted PAC Meeting
Did members of the Government boycott the Public Accounts Committee meeting set for Thursday? The Belize National Teachers’ Union believes they did. The meeting was the first opportunity to question [...]

Trim the Fat! M.O.H. Tackles Obesity in Belize
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with PAHO, is taking on obesity in Belize. Globally, obesity is an epidemic and locally while the data is not updated, the Ministry says [...]

Harvest Caye Still ‘Alcatraz’ for FECTAB
Is Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Harvest Caye crippling the tour operators of the Fort Street Tourism Village? President of FECTAB, Tom Greenwood, says that the NCL ships have taken away about [...]

FECTAB Declares Cruise Crisis
But Greenwood says that tour operators are also hurting from other decisions made by Government agencies. The FECTAB President made a call to the stakeholders involved to save what he [...]

Beware Survey Impersonators
On Thursday night, a Facebook post went viral and the Ministry of Health and Statistical Institute of Belize were in the middle of it. One Facebook user alleges that a [...]

Song Competition Boosts Garifuna Music
The first ever Belize Garifuna Song Competition kicks off tonight at the Bird’s Isle. From as many as seventeen entries, five musicians have made it to the finals and the [...]

LOVE FM

Guatemala changes Referendum Date
Reports coming out from Guatemala are that the Supreme Electoral Tribunal has changed the date for their referendum. We are told that the new date is Sunday, March 11, 2018 and that the reason for the change is because of their ‘busy activities during Lent’. The spokesman of the electoral body, Luis Gerardo Ramírez, was […]

Taxi Man’s Throat Slit in Dangriga
Police in Dangriga are investigating the murder of a taxi man. Harry Arzu has more details. Harry Arzu “Details from our side are sketchy at this time but Dangriga Police processed an area just before mile 1 off the Southern Highway. Opposite a dump site where the body of a Hispanic male person was found […]

Police launch Operation ACT
The Belize Police Department has mobilized and launched an operation in Belize City to curb the spate of gun violence that has plagued particularly the Southside area. That operation has been dubbed ACT, which stands for “Addressing Crime Together” and involves several units of the police department working in unison. The Department’s strategy has also […]

ACP Williams returns to Southside for Operation ACT
As we mentioned earlier, ACP Chester Williams will be back in the City, though not in his former capacity. ACP Williams will be leading the mediation component of Operation ACT. He will be joined by his former colleagues Diane Finnegan and Nuri Muhammed, who have worked closely with him in the intervention program that was […]

Police seek Public’s help in fight against Crime
As the title of the operation suggests, the Police Department is also seeking the cooperation of the Belize City residents. Some of these residents, as the Department’s high command, has acknowledged may be caught in some of the stints and have asked for the public’s tolerance and forgiveness if this happens. Beyond that, the department […]

Operation ACT comprises of Rigid & Amiable
Operation ACT, as we heard from the Department’s top brass, will employ both a rigid and an amiable approach in the attempt to curb the ongoing gun violence in the City. Although the mediation process is one that residents will have to seek on their own, the other component of the operation raises concern. As […]

Briceno comments on Belize Infrastructure Limited
Two weeks ago Prime Minister Dean Barrow hosted a press conference with the aim to explain the Faber’s Road Rehabilitation Project contract. During that press conference, the deplorable state of Lake Independence Boulevard was brought up. Engineer, Evondale Moody, blamed Belize Infrastructure Limited, BIL. Moody said that the failure was in the design. Today BIL […]

Ambassador Lissette Perez: “US blockade against Cuba, the longest genocide committed against any people.’
The United States has imposed an embargo against Cuba for almost 60 years. The embargo or “blockade” as it is referred to by the Cubans is an economical, commercial and financial blockade and was imposed on October 19, 1960, whereby the U.S. restricted exports to Cuba. The damage done by the embargo is more than […]

Rosado denies owing GST 600K
It is alleged that Yhony Rosado, a businessman and a member of FECTAB owes the Government of Belize, in particular, General Sales Tax (GST) more than half a million dollars. Today, FECTAB held a press conference where Rosado denied the accusation. Yhony Rosado “GST have audit meet two years ago. They didn’t find anything. Then […]

BNTU sends warning to PM, after UDP Ministers Boycott PAC
This morning the Belize National Teachers’ Union, BNTU, fired off a statement in which it placed on record its “condemnation of the four Ministers of the United Democratic Party, UDP, who were no-shows of the meeting of the Public Accounts Committee, PAC.” The PAC was supposed to meet yesterday in Belmopan but only the Chairman, […]

Survey being conducted for Chronic Kidney Disease
The Ministry of Health has issued a clarification surrounding questions that have been raised by some Belizeans on Social Media. This week, Belizeans took to Facebook to express concern over what they call suspicious behavior by persons who claim to work with the Ministry of Health. One of those posts claimed that a woman in […]

Ministry of Health to sensitize the populous on Obesity
The Ministry of Health has begun discussions to address obesity in Belize. Dr. Francis Murray, Deputy Director of Health Services is the focal point for the development of a national strategic plan. He explained the objectives of the work towards sensitizing the Belizean population on obesity. Dr. Francis Murray “The purpose of today is to […]

More Rains in store for Belize
Earlier this week, the country received torrential rains which cause flooding in various parts of the country and disrupted classes. More rains are expected over the weekend as NEMO and the National Met Service are monitoring Tropical Storm SELMA in the south-eastern Pacific Ocean. SELMA is expected to threaten parts of Central America including El […]

Pink Eye Outbreak May be Over
The Pink Eye epidemic is looking to be over. While there has been a surge of cases being reported in the Country since September, the situation seems to be going back to normal as less new cases are being recorded. Doctor Ethan Goff, head of the Epidemiology Unit in the Ministry of Health told us […]

Haitian Man killed in the Old Capital
Love News has confirmed that a taxi man was shot and killed this evening in Belize City. The victim has been identified as forty-year-old Haitian Odner Estizeine. Police say that at around 5:15 pm, the taxi driver was shot in his back. He was driving his grey Dodge van at Complex Avenue and Jones Street […]

Mahler walks from Attempted Murder
Twenty-six-year-old Alber Mahler, charged with attempted murder, was acquitted of the charge today by Justice Adolph Lucas in a trial without a jury. After the prosecution, represented by Crown Counsel Shanice Lovell, closed its case, Mahler’s attorney, Kareem Musa, submitted that he does not have a case to answer to. Musa said that the Crown […]

Court of Appeal orders Re-trial for Ical convicted of Rape
An appeal by Alberto Ical, convicted of rape and robbery and sentenced to 15 and 10 years respectively, succeeded when Belize Court of Appeal delivered its judgment today and allowed the appeal and ordered a retrial. The appeal was allowed on the grounds that it was prejudicial to Ical. It was revealed that the complainant […]

Palacio charged with Attempted Murder
Twenty-eight-year-old Gilbert Anthony Palacio, a resident of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, was charged with attempted murder when he appeared today before Magistrate Michelle Trapp. Palacio was also charged with grievous harm and use of deadly means of harm. No plea was taken because the offences are indictable. Neither could the court offer him bail. He […]

Robbers make off with over $50K worth of Jewelry
Robbers got away with more than fifty thousand dollars’ worth of jewelry after an armed hold up in Belmopan. It happened yesterday morning at around 10 o’clock. Two armed men, not wearing masks, targeted First Stop Pawn Shop. The reportedly barged into the establishment and held up two female employees. One of the robbers put […]

Amandala

Mexican President and CARICOM meet in Belize
Belize hosted a historic meeting between heads of government of CARICOM and the president of Mexico, Enrique Peña Nieto at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza on Wednesday, October 25, 2017, at which the devastation recently wrought by multiple catastrophic hurricanes in the Caribbean region as well as Mexico—also hard-hit by devastating earthquakes in the recent weeks—took center stage. Peña Nieto, who was visiting Belize for the first time, announced at the summit that Mexico will provide US$14 million to the CARICOM nations in disaster relief, to be channeled through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). At the press conference at the closing of the summit, Peña Nieto, who pledged that his country will pay more attention to the Caribbean region, spoke of the declaration developed jointly by the parties at the summit which aims to strengthen cooperation in areas such as ICT, promoting Spanish as a second language, agriculture and health.

“Nitro” remanded for “threat of death”
This is the first time in Belize that someone who has posted on Facebook is facing a criminal charge for that post. Today, Shikell Nunez, known by his performance name, “Cross De Nitro”, was arraigned on a charge of threat of death and remanded to the Belize Central Prison after the court prosecutor objected to the court granting him bail. Nunez, a resident of 37 Mopan Street, appeared in the #8 Court before Magistrate Stephanie Gillett, who arraigned him on the single charge that he made threats of death against members of the Gang Suppression Unit (GSU) and their families. Nunez pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Guat boat runs aground on Belize reef
On Saturday night, October 21, a 60-foot yacht, Amador, owned by Guatemalan singer Carlos Peña, ran aground on the reef near South Water Caye. Peña was onboard his boat, which was being captained by Gustavo Aleojos Andres Jansa and another unnamed crew member. There were 10 passengers onboard the yacht when the incident occurred some 21 miles southeast of Dangriga Town. Exactly where the Amador was heading is not known. The singer used his Facebook page to send out distress signals and the yacht was eventually towed off the reef. No injuries to any of the passengers were reported.

Shot in head, fighting for his life
Yesterday, Wednesday, a young woman was standing at the right-hand corner of Partridge Street where it joins with Partridge Street Extension, and a man, walking from the direction of the George Price Highway, towards Vernon Street, was approaching her. A short distance from the girl, a man sat on the trunk of a small blue car. The fourth person in the tragic scene about to be played out was a very small-bodied young man with a low haircut. He was on a small bicycle, traveling from the direction of Vernon Street, towards the George Price Highway. The man approaching the woman on foot shouted to her, while she was still standing at the corner, “Turn around and don’t look!”

Consumer prices up
Escalating transport costs continue to drive up consumer prices for goods and services, which rose by 0.7% in September 2017 and 1.2% for the first 9 months of 2017, according to the latest information released by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB). “The ‘Transport’ index remained the main contributor to the overall rise in consumer prices during the month, recording an average increase of 6.6 percent compared to September 2016,” the SIB explained. It explained that higher international airfares coupled with the effects of last year’s increase in domestic bus fares contributed significantly to this rise in transport costs.

Maya say GOB in “flagrant violation” of CCJ order
Back in 2015, the Government of Belize undertook via a letter from its attorney to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to “work towards demarcation and registration of the Maya villages’ property rights by December 31, 2017.” That date is just over two months away, but the parties are nowhere close to achieving that milestone. In fact, when the parties appeared before the CCJ today, attorney for the Maya appellants, Magali Marin-Young, told the CCJ that there has been a “complete failure by the Government to abide by the court’s order and to develop affirmative measures to identify and protect proprietary rights of Maya arising from customary tenure.”

Stann Creek F.A. 1st Division Cup Week 4 results, standings
The Stann Creek Football Association (SCFA) 1st Division Cup 2017 tournament continued over the weekend with Week 4 games at the Carl Ramos Stadium. In the opener on Friday night, October 20, Bowen & Bowen Landsharks drew, 2-2, with Conquerors. Car Saravia (2’ & 67’) struck twice for Land Sharks, while Conquerors got a goal each from Leonarde Valdez (65’ PK) and Shanty Castillo (71’). And in the nightcap, Pomona Warriors blanked Hopkins Blak Lyons, 3-nil, with goals from Patrick Cruz (14’), Yibemeh Roches (34’) and Harrison Roches (82’). The games scheduled for Sunday, October 22, were not played due to the weather (rain). Those games will be played later as back matches.

Belize Rural Primary School boys and girls are Rural Basketball Champions 2017
Last Tuesday, October 17, the one-day Belize Rural Primary Schools Basketball Zone 1, 2, 3 & 4 Tournament finals were played at the Ladyville Basketball Court with 4 female (F) and 5 male (M) teams participating. In a simple knockout format, 4 games were played in the first round: (F) Burrell Boom Methodist defeated St. Therese RC, 10-0, with Zoila Aguilar scoring 6 points for the winners. (M) Our Lady of The Way RC easily disposed of St. Therese RC, 27-3. Elmer Moralez and Jaden Frazer had 8 pts each for Our Lady of The Way, while Winston Dawson scored all 3 pts for St. Therese RC. (F) Belize Rural Primary won, 6-3, over Lucky Strike Government. Nadine Humble netted 4 pts for Belize Rural, and Kenisha Herbert scored 2 pts for Lucky Strike. And (M) Belize Rural crushed Burrell Boom Methodist, 24-4, behind 12 pts from Randy Moody, while Solomon Tillett and Tayjawn Gallego got 2 pts each for Burrell Boom.

Table Tennis – 2017 – 7th Annual 5-Barrel Veteran Championships results!
7th Annual 5-BARREL Veteran Championships took place this past Saturday, October 21, at the Beliaze Elementary School Auditorium. The tournament started off with the top 8 veteran table tennis players (35 years and over) competing for this title in an 8-Double Elimination Competition format. Defending champion Zhi Chen could not participate this year, but finalist Tux Vasquez and third place winner Carlos Cui were among the veteran players in this competition.

Belmopan F.A. kicks off its Saldivar Kids, Youth & Female Cup Late Tournament 2017
The Belmopan Football Association (BFA) kicked off its Hon. John Saldivar U-13, U-15, U-17 Male and U-17 Female Late Tournament 2017 over the past weekend with games on Saturday and Sunday, October 21 & 22, at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium. Participating teams in the tournaments are: Bandits; Piccini Rising Stars; San Martin Medina’s; Mountain View Revolution; Salvapan FC; Las Flores Latin Boys; Spanish Lookout; Armenia Atlas; Police Cadets; YWAM Valencia; Valley Of Peace; Roaring Creek; and Bmp Compre Flames.

EDITORIAL: The joker in the deck
The joker in the Guatemalan claim deck of cards has always been the Mexican position. Mexico’s position, in the aftermath of the 1893 Mariscal-Spenser Treaty which regularized the border between Mexico and British Honduras, has been that they were cool with Belize and its borders unless any change occurred to these borders in favor of Guatemala. If any such change occurred, Mexico reserved its rights, as the attorneys say. The joker in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) deck of cards has recently been Kremandala, whose position has been that this institution is opposed to ICJ arbitration but would not rule it out entirely. This is not a position which is favorable enough for the Government of Belize and the Friends of Belize with respect to the ICJ initiative, an initiative which is being pushed by the Government of Belize and which is being financed by the Friends of Belize with double-digit millions of dollars. It is our feeling at this newspaper that there has been collusion over the last few years between the Government of Belize and the Friends of Belize with the aim of weakening Kremandala in any way possible, and especially financially.

From The Publisher
Over the last few weeks, a couple ladies mailed me to encourage I with this column. It was well appreciated. I have gone through months of anger which sometimes reached the point of rage. There were things I could see happening, and a bitter sense of my own powerlessness was coming over me. So how many times would we have to say the same thing? So how many youth had to die? More than fifty years ago, Bob Dylan said it real – the answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind. For a revolutionary, it is always important to remember that the people for whom he or she fights are downtrodden and, yes, that word again, powerless. If you do not consider me a revolutionary, I would not take it amiss, or consider your opinion disrespectful. There are many people all over the world today who considered themselves revolutionary in the 1960s and early 1970s who lived long enough to return to being bourgeois and respectable.

The Politics of Pot
Dear Editor, Please allow me a space in your prestigious newspaper to add to the discourse on the decriminalisation of certain quantities of marijuana. Firstly, I want to state clearly that I support the decriminalization of certain quantities of marijuana and any other law which seems to be applied disproportionately against the poor. However, I have a few concerns. The Government and promoters of the Bill say that it’s not intended to promote marijuana use, but to decriminalize a behavior or persons who are otherwise not criminal except for their use of marijuana. It also seeks to correct an “injustice visited upon certain classes of people.” I am very much concerned that there has not been much public education on this matter of public interest. In summary, the Bill, if passed into law as is, will provide for: – A new definition of ‘cannabis’ which excludes “medicinal preparations from that plant…” and also excludes “Industrial Hemp”.

Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2017 — the need for greater public education
Dear Editor, The democracy we are afforded gives us the right to dissent and I must categorically state that the House of Representatives made a monumental step backward last week with the legalization of certain amount of marijuana. The measure is grossly counterproductive to the citizenry of this nation and a step backward to the establishment of a society that is productive and one that enhances positive nation building. But naturally do not expect the politicians to do the right thing, but rather merely to put a Band-Aid on a gunshot wound. Now there are those who will quickly counter this argument with evidence that studies have shown that marijuana can help to improve with some forms of diseases and ailment.

A Belizean patriot from the United Kingdom
Dear all, It is with immense sadness that I take the liberty of writing in lamentation on the incredible rise in crimes of violence and death, particularly amongst the young men in our land. It appears that death and personal loss of many loved ones is a continued “Game of Thrones” in daily living! It is difficult to put real meaning and context to the emotional experience that is stirred deep within my psyche when presented with such sad observations. It seems beyond immediate conscious explanation. Hence, I ask for understanding as I dare to comment on the grieving of fathers, mothers, sons and daughters who are affected by and feeling the painful loss and grief at this very moment. Notwithstanding this, I also grieve for the loss of my land and the serenity of the past. Nostalgia, real enough, but I knew of a time when, in Belize City, I could walk anywhere, anytime; night and day, only fearing the bites of stray dogs and scoldings when passing another citizen without a courteous greeting!

We need people with common sense in authority
Dear Editor, We stay complaining about the long lines and other problems at the Santa Elena Border, but until our authorities begin to understand that this is a modern world, we are no longer a colony and our Belizean citizenship must count for something in our own country, we will always remain subjects and not citizens. Why on earth do persons who report to work in the Santa Elena Border Free Zone have to have a border card which is scanned. A Free Zone Pass is all they are supposed to produce to be able to go through the border and report to work. It was like this before and it was much easier. You cannot get a job there if you are not a Belizean, and this entails proper identification as such.

If there is no guarantee, why risk taking us there?
Dear Editor, Please allow me space in your valuable newspaper to APPEAL to my fellow Belizeans not to be swayed by party politics and follow the confusing decision of our Foreign Minister, Hon. Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington, and the Government of Belize for us to vote either to go, or not to go to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). I have written on the subject of the Guatemalan claim before, and I insist on it asking the question, “What are we going to discuss at the ICJ?” Does Guatemala have any claim to all or part of our country? If we follow Minister Elrington, who signed the Agreement in December 2008 in Washington DC, we are not only going to be spending money we don’t have, but the agreement signed with Guatemala stipulates that “the decision of the Court will be binding”.

http://amandala.com.bz/news/abdul-jabbar-traced-ancestry-belize/
Editor Amandala, The well-known basketball superstar and activist, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one of Ellis Island’s 2017 honorees, traced his ancestry back to Belize. His grandmother and grandfather emigrated to the US in the first quarter of the 20th century. What the primitive politicians in Belize do not know, and will never know, is that a nation’s most valuable asset is its people. And, they continue to ignore this at our own peril. That is what Singapore’s visionary leader, the great Lee Kuan Yew, understood and that is why his tiny state, with absolutely no natural resources, is a giant today among the world’s nations in almost every key index of development.

RIGHT TO THE POINT: The herb … the ten grammes myths
The above is the preamble to the proposed amendment being made to the Misuse of Drugs Act, Chapter 103, which has stirred such grave debate and heated arguments to the point of name calling amongst friends and virtual friends on social media! I opine there is no need for that as each is entitled to their opinion and own personal choices. However, there is no need for that since those so-called debaters are talking at each other and not with each other and thus are not able to soberly discuss the issues and handle the actual contents and purpose of the proposed legislative amendments. However, a look at and careful reading of the stated purpose of the amendment from the preamble cited above gives a very unequivocal and concise objective of the amendment.

Hogan’s football story – Part 5
Charles Hogan (H): Yes, 2-nil. And we finished that 4-game series. And then… it was Ebenezer time!! Amandala (A): What! They’re bringing you guys to town? H: Yes, they’re bringing us to the City!! Part 5 A: I didn’t hear about that game at the time; but that must have been a monster game!… So, you guys coming to town… H: Right here at Rogers Stadium… and there were a lot of old ‘ballers there… from Landivar… BEC… some of them spoke to me long after… and they remembered the game… A: So, at that time then, Ebenezer Primary (also a Methodist school) would have been the Belize City champion… because they had a City competition too… H: Yaa… because on the radio we were listening to their games every day… beating Holy Redeemer… they were beating St. Mary’s… St. Ignatius… and we heard about this… this dominating team from the City… A: Eben! Eben! (laughs)

The Final Call – Belizeans
Belizeans are in for a rude and wicked awakening as the Guatemalan militaristic/oligarchy eagerly mobilizes and pushes for what they believe is theirs – Belize! The regime has made public its commitment to seal this quest by allocating $14 million for public brainwashing upon its citizens and an additional $32 million for its referendum. The excitement and aggressiveness that permeates the regime’s approach to finally settle its protracted territorial claim to Belize is likened to a predator closing in on its prey. Meanwhile, the handful of career politicians and bureaucrats who have enjoyed a monopoly on national leadership in the tiny nation of Belize agreed to collaborate. After being wined and dined by regional and global powers in the various metropolitan capitals, they have totally committed themselves to the scheme and gamble of submitting the national territorial integrity of Belize into the hands of the ICJ (International Court of Justice).

No super player
Minister Sedi Elrington’s assessment of the performance of our present Police Commissioner, that it isn’t ANY WORSE than that of any of his predecessors, is just about the lowest compliment ever. And his observation that he doesn’t believe in super players, only in super teams, exposes him as a man who doesn’t have a full grasp of how the world works. There was a time when Sedi couldn’t go to a House meeting without disparaging the job done by former PM, George Price. It did seem to be an obsession and there was real concern for his inability to get over it. When he kicked the habit, there was a breath of relief. We were glad for him, that he was past the bile within him. We really should be more careful about the things we pray for. We should have prayed for the bitterness to increase until it consumed his every waking hour.

“Big Tom” is still alive
As of press time tonight, Kenneth “Big Tom” Flowers is believed to be alive and well despite alleged threats to his health, that he would not live past today, Thursday, October 26. On Tuesday, reporters and television cameramen took up vigil outside the Kremandala compound shortly after 1:00 p.m. They were waiting for the reputed “PIV big man,” Flowers, who had agreed to grant an interview to the media on our compound. According to a post on Shakir “Cross De Nitro” Nunez’s Facebook page, his “general,” Flowers, has been marked for death by a police squad, which has been rounding up friends of Flowers in their Lake Independence neighborhood, and who reportedly shot Flowers’ dog Sunday night.

Establishment of sex offender registry lags behind 4 years
On October 1, 2013, Minister of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation and United Democratic Party member for Port Loyola, Anthony “Boots” Martinez tabled legislative amendments to the Belize Criminal Code which were touted as paving the way for the establishment of a national sex offender registry for Belize, amid reports of rising sex crimes. Today, more than four years later, that registry has yet to be established. Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ret’d Colonel George Lovell, told Amandala, when we asked him about the matter today, that the Government of Belize is still doing the groundwork to determine exactly what model it will adopt. The enabling amendment was tabled back in October 2013. The provisions had included expanding protections from sexual assault for persons with cognitive disabilities and mental illness to include males with these conditions, establishing a National Sex Offender Database and protecting witnesses from being influenced either directly or indirectly by alleged offenders or their agents.

“Boots” drops burglary charge against his caretaker, Kirk Lamb
Human Development Minister Anthony “Boots” Martinez made an appearance before Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser, in her chamber this morning. The minister’s appearance was in relation to a charge brought against Kirk Lamb, 38, who works as a caretaker at the Human Development office, located at the corner of Central American Boulevard and the George Price Highway. Martinez had gone to the Chief Magistrate to ask her to drop a charge of burglary against Lamb, who was in police custody and was scheduled to be arraigned on the charge for making off with a door valued at $658, the property of the Ministry of Human Development. In the afternoon session of the court, Lamb appeared before Chief Magistrate Fraser, who told him that the minister had come that morning and dropped the charge.

One year almost up; no $400,000 each from Vega and Pitts
In the next five days, exactly one year will have passed since the Office of the Solicitor General wrote UDP crony Sharon Pitts, and the son of disgraced Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Lands Gaspar Vega, Andre Vega instructing them to return nearly one million dollars of taxpayers’ money ($400,000 each) they had received in a shady land transaction when the senior Vega was the Minister of Lands. However, to date, neither Pitts nor Vega has returned a cent of those monies. To add insult to injury, last December the Solicitor General filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court against the duo, but that suit has not yet seen the light of day. Today, Amandala spoke with Attorney General (AG) Michael Peyrefitte, who immediately washed his hands of the matter, saying immediately that as far as he is concerned, “nothing come outta it.”

The Reporter

Police roll out new anti-crime operation in Southside Belize City
At 6:00 Friday morning , the Belize Police Department (BPD) in an effort to combat the recent upsurge of crime in South Side Belize City, launched a special anti-crime operation which is expected to be effective until the ending of January 2018. The operation code […]

Dangriga taxi driver found dead in orange orchard
The body of a Belizean taxi driver from Dangriga town was recovered early this morning from an orange orchard in Southern Belize. Information recieved is that the taxi driver, Jose Alfredo Majil, 32, was discovered lying on his back with a large cut wound on […]

Pink eye cases peak at 16,000 Officials say cases decreasing
on Wednesday. Between September 10 and this past Monday, October 23, a total of […]

Fuel price goes down, a little
The reduction of fuel prices promised by Prime Minister Dean Barrow finally arrived this week, seeing a marginal reduction in the price of Regular fuel. The Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) announced that as of Wednesday the price per gallon for Regular fuel went down by 16 […]

The hustle - passiveness will not work
By Neri Briceno The state is probably the only legal body authorized to use force on its citizens, apart from private citizens acting in self-defense. The conditions and terms for using it are strict and narrow. In the case of the state, it comes with great responsibility and there are […]

What is a silent stroke?
It is possible that you could be having a stroke and not know it right away. It is called a “silent stroke” and it occurs when blood cannot access a part of the brain temporarily. It might not come with any symptoms at all, but […]

GOB decriminalizes Marijuana, less than 10grams
By William Ysaguirre Freelance Repoerter The Government of Belize is about to decriminalize marijuana by a Bill to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana, not to exceed 10 grammes, which Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington introduced for its first reading at a Special sitting of […]

The Billion-Dollar Question: How to fill Belize’s SME Credit Gap? Part 5
Last week’s “The Business Perspective” column took a short pause from the access-to-credit discourse, and focused on yet another set of factors affecting the business community and growth: the competition that local businesses have with cross-border purchases. As was stated last week, the idea is not to encourage any government […]

Cost of living was up in September
Keeping with the trend since the start of 2017, new statistics show that the cost of living during the month of September was higher than it was last year. The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) released its Consumer Price Index (CPI) on Wednesday, showing that Belizeans paid […]

Police and media find middle ground
After weeks of impasse between the Belize Police Department and media houses countrywide, both sides have agreed on a system of information sharing going forwards, bringing the media boycott of police events to an end. On Tuesday the media met with senior command of the department, including […]

Man shot in the head clings to life by a thread
A young man from Burrell Boom village is on life-support at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) suffering from severe brain injuries he sustained after he was shot once to the back of his head on Wednesday evening on Partridge Street in Belize City. Cardinal […]

Grandmother and granddaughter shot while watching tv
A little girl narrowly escaped death when a bullet ripped through her house as she sat and watched the evening news with her two siblings, cousins, and her grandmother on Tuesday. One bullet struck the 7-year-old girl in the back, exiting her abdomen, damaging her […]

“Unlimited” not untouchable Police arrest deemed police brutality
Bernard Cayetano, aka “Unlimited”, was arraigned this week in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court after he was arrested by police. Cayetano claims the charges are baseless, then accused police of brutality. A house search by police, reportedly turned south for a recording artist, when the […]

$1,000 reward offered for information about Mark Pollard
A new group formed to assist in the search for missing persons in Belize has undertaken a renewed effort to locate Mark Pollard by offering a monetary reward to anyone who provides information regarding his whereabouts. The group, Missing Persons-Search and Rescue Belize issued a release last […]

Editorial
Spare the rod and spoil the child! The phrase come from a 17th century poet, Samuel Butler of England, but the inspiration undoubtedly comes from the Book of Proverbs, which instructs parents that “He that spares his rod hates his son: but he that loves him chastenes him. The “rod” […]

Thieves target Belmopan pawn shop
Belmopan police are investigating an armed robbery at a pawn shop in the capital, where thieves made off with over $60,000 in cash and valuables. The manager of First Stop pawn shop on Constitution Drive, Belmopan told police that around 9:20 a.m., on Thursday October […]

Two loans, $80 Million later, New Haulover bridge still not done
The Government of Belize, this week, passed a motion for a $24 million loan to upgrade the Haulover Bridge, even though it had already gotten a $60 million loan in 2014 for the same purpose. Both loans, as is the case with all other public […]

Big Tom targetted?
There was a dangerous spate of back and forth earlier this week between the mother of two men murdered within 12 days and a former gang associate, who has denied reports that it was he was behind the killing of her two sons. That man […]

Man stabs common-law wife, stepson and stepdaughter
A little girl, age 12, her brother ,14, and mother were viciously stabbed by her stepfather as they slept at their house in Belize City, not even 100 yards from a police checkpoint, early Tuesday morning. Police say the girl, Veril Morris, was sleeping on […]

Mexico gives $14 Million to CARICOM CRIF
The Government of Mexico will contribute $14 Million to the CARICOM Catastrophe Risk Insurance Fund (CCRIF), Mexico’s President, Enrique Peña Nieto confirmed at the IV CARICOM-Mexico Summit, which he co-chaired during his first official visit to Belize, at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel […]

Breaking Belize News

Police confirm shooting in Lake-I
Police have issued an official report on today’s shooting in Lake Independence, Belize City. According […]

Police Minister explains new approach to tackling crime
The Police Department, today, launched its new Addressing Crime Together (ACT) initiative at the Raccoon […]

PUP announces mayoral candidate for Belize City
The Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) has selected its mayoral candidate and councilors to square […]

GOB: We did not boycott Public Accounts Committee Meeting
The Government of Belize (GOB) issued a release just now informing the public that they […]

Dollar van driver shot in Lake I
BBN has confirmed that a dollar van driver of Nigerian nationality was shot on Complex […]

Police bust Belize City man with ganja
Belize City cops have busted a man with 223 grams of cannabis. On Thursday at around 4:30 […]

Belize City man beaten and shot
A Belize City man was beaten, knocked out, and shot near a Belize City bar […]

NEMO issues advisory on Tropical cyclone activity
NEMO and the National Met Service are informing the public that at 2:00 p.m., showers and […]

Belize Infrastructure Limited fires back explaining Lake I design and construction
Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) issued a statement today detailing the Lake Independence Blvd design and […]

Ministry of Health and SIB carrying out survey on kidney disease
The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) in partnership with the Ministry of Health, today informed […]

Belmopan barber shop robbed at gun point
Last night around 9, Tyron Bell ,34, Belizean barber of Ontario Village, Cayo District, reported […]

BNTU admonishes PM Barrow on his Ministers’ boycott of the Public Accounts Committee
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) issued a release today stating that it is putting […]

Blackman Eddy Village gets playground set
This morning, Officer Commanding Belmopan Police, Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett handed over a playground set […]

Thieves take over $60,000 in items and cash from Belmopan pawn shop
Yesterday morning around 9:30, Belmopan police responded to a robbery report at Frist Stop Pawn Shop […]

Man found dead in taxi
According to reports, this morning a man was found dead inside a red taxi near […]

Pesero pistol whipped in Corozal town
About 7am on Thursday, Jose Sanchez, a pesero (microbús driver), was preparing to leave home in his car […]

Home Invasion in Kontiki, San Ignacio
On Monday, October 16, 2017, a man reported to police that shortly after 3 in […]

Pitts and Vega still haven’t returned tax payers money
The Attorney General has given Andre Vega and Sharon Pitts up until October 31 of last year […]

Belize Archives & Records Service to hold lecture on colonialism and the making of southern Belize
The Belize Archives and Records Service (BARS) will host its first lecture in its Lecture […]

Two detained minors escape from San Ignacio Police Station
According to confirmed reports, yesterday morning two minors that were detained for questioning escaped from […]

Blogs

Rain, Rain, Rain Gives Way to Fall Weather Perfection on Ambergris Caye
After 8 days of RAIN RAIN RAIN…grey weather and then MORE RAIN, the weather gods have decided to have mercy upon us. Many residents of Ambergris Caye have found their yards flooded and their local streets, swamp. While fascinating to watch the life cycles of tadpoles and mosquitoes, it grows tiresome QUICK when it is your yard. And you need to wade through it each day. Clemency came in the form of THE MOST GORGEOUS DAY EVER. A cool northerly wind (the first of the fall season), crispy clear air and SUN! Residents pulled out wind breakers and hoodies (to the amusement of visitors) and everyone headed out to enjoy.

International Sources

Belize - EU: 3rd“Article 8” political dialogue session
As part of Belize’s Diplomatic Week and Independence Celebrations, the third political dialogue session between the European Union (EU) and Belize took place in Belmopan on Tuesday, September 19th, 2017. The cordial and constructive dialogue offered a platform for consultations over a broad range of bilateral, regional and multilateral issues, as well as an opportunity to take stock of progress made concerning ‘essential elements’ of the Cotonou Agreement, including respect for human rights, democratic principles and good governance. Among discussions was the progress of the EU/Belize development partnership and renewed their commitment to partnering on health, energy and public finance management in Belize. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington led the discussion on the recent developments in the process to resolve the Guatemalan Claim to Belizean Territory.

Videos

Snake on the move, 1min. In these flooded roads you see all creatures coming out, sorry for the video shaking.

Chicken Drop Belize, 4min.

Caleb Orozco, Belize - Testimony at the 2017 Dublin Platform, 5min.

DIABETES, OBESITY, HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND RENAL FAILURE, 9min. Approximately eight to ten percent of the adult population worldwide are diagnosed with some form of kidney damage, and statistics show that each year millions of persons die prematurely of complications related to Chronic Kidney Diseases.

Belize: Island Wildlife, 25th Anniversary, 3.5min.

Serendipity Cacao Farm in Belize, 2.5min. Co-owners Jeff and Deon take guests on a walking tour of a sprawling farm full of healthy, growing cacao trees. Each tree's cacao seeds yield approximately two pounds of chocolate. Here we are at sunset atop the tallest hill on the farm, offering a picturesque lookout of the Toledo District in southern Belize, known for having ideal conditions for cacao tree production.

Rio Blanco Falls in Belize, 1.5min. Join us on a healing eco-adventure wellness retreat in the tropical jungle of southern Belize at a pristine waterfall, Rio Blanco Falls. Jump in!

Belize Adventure, 2min.

Mr. Pedro Lozano from Atlantic Bank Belize, 3min. Mr. Lozano, Payment System Manager of Atlantic Bank Ltd. at the Belize TechExpo 2017.

October 27, 2017

Hector Verdugo of Homeboy Industries is at Stann Creek Ecumenical High School in Dangriga, cultural capital of Belize!, 41min.

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, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Family seeks help after home burns down in northern Ambergris Caye
In the official report made to San Pedro Police, Velasquez, along with her common-law husband Emir Recinos left home on the evening of Sunday, October 15th due to the torrential rains causing flooding in the area. A few days later, on Wednesday, October 18th, when her husband checked on the house located eight miles north of San Pedro Town, he found it destroyed by a fire. Velasquez told The Sun that she believes it was deliberately set on fire since the house did not count with electricity. She added that there is no other explanation, as there is nothing else that could have caused the fire. She said that they have been able to find a place to stay for the time being, but they hope to start rebuilding her home soon.

Police arrest and charge Gilbert Palacio for attempted murder
San Pedro Police have arrested and charged 28-year-old Gilbert Anthony Palacio after attempting to take the life of 45-year-old Alexia del Carmen Melendez. The incident took place on Wednesday, October 25th on an unnamed street in the area of San Mateo, north-west of the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge. The motive of the attack has not been ascertained by police, but Palacio has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison. Via an official report, police stated that on October 25th they visited the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II around 4PM, where they observed Melendez suffering from cut wounds to the left side and lower part of her neck. Initial investigation reveals that on Wednesday around 3:45PM, Melendez was walking home in the San Mateo Area, when a well-known male person riding a bicycle approached her and attacked her with a knife, inflicting the injuries.

Marco Gonzalez Maya Site Hosts Archaeology Week on San Pedro
During Archeological Week, Marco Gonzalez Maya Site Ambergris Caye Ltd (MGMSAC), along with Belize Institute of Archaeology (IoA), held informative presentations at El Patio Restaurant in San Pedro Town on October 19th and 20th. The archaeological presentation was facilitated for all San Pedro Town primary and first form students as well as island residents. The purpose was to educate the participants about the archeological interests on Ambergris Caye and the near vicinity while fostering an appreciation for the preservation and protection of their cultural heritage. Facilitated by the Research Department’s Antonio Beardall, photographs, video clips and fossilized remains of a giant sloth were used to teach the attendees about the Maya who occupied Ambergris Caye as a trading zone, highlighting the dynamism of the Marco Gonzalez site. At the end of the presentation, there was a question and answer segment in which students were rewarded with items from the IoA.

GOB takes historic step with moratorium on offshore oil exploration
During the October 20th sitting of the House of Representatives, the Government of Belize (GOB) made history by introducing a legislation to enshrine a moratorium on offshore oil exploration in Belize. The announcement was previously mentioned at the August 18th House Sitting where Prime Minister Dean Barrow stated that Cabinet had taken a decision on the said legislation. The tabling of the legislation brought much relief to opponents of offshore oil drilling in Belizean waters. Many conservationists contend that allowing such activity to take place in Belize will put in danger the country’s marine natural resources, such as the Belize Barrier Reef, the territorial seas and the Exclusive Economic Zone. They also added that the livelihoods of many Belizeans who work in the tourism and fishing industries would also be threatened.

Ambergris Caye stakeholders win big at BTB 2017 National Tourism Awards
Ambergris Caye nabbed three of the prizes for the evening, starting with the Frontline Personnel of the year, which went to Las Terrazas’ Leroy Welch. Welch has always been involved in the tourism industry providing services to the tourists. According to him, he started off selling jewelry on the beach, as well as delicious panades. “I mingle a lot with tourists, I get to know them, and they get to know me and see a great happiness in me,” said Welch. He also noted that he always gives his all to make visitors feel welcome when they visit the island. The Minister’s Award went to Phillip ‘Billy’ Leslie. Leslie is well known on Ambergris Caye and is the president of the Tour Guide Association on the island. He is proud of this achievement, sharing his transition from the end of the commercial fishing era into tourism, with fishing tourists encouraged to visit areas at sea where they could snorkel, view manatees, and even do inland tours to visit Maya sites. “We were the commercial fishing group that knew a lot about the reef, where the different marine species were, so when a customer said I want to go and see some fish, we knew were to take them,” said Billy. Taking Hotel of the Year Award was Grand Caribe Resort, a condominium resort located north of San Pedro. The luxury property opened in 2010 and comprises of 76 condominium units ranging from one bedroom to five-bedroom villas. According to Amy Leiva, the resort employs 99% Belizean staff and is considered a luxurious and modern resort within the country.

Ambergris Today

Mexican President Strengthens Bond With Belize During Visit
Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto arrived today, October 25, to participate in the IV CARICOM Mexico Summit. On hand to receive him was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honorable Wilfred Elrington. Though this is President Peña Nieto’s first visit to Belize, he emphasized that the visit is not merely protocol but reflects longstanding relations that are evident by the substantive cooperation and bilateral engagement. President Peña Nieto met with Prime Minister Barrow in a private bilateral meeting in which both Heads reviewed the state of play of the longstanding and friendly bilateral relations between Belize and Mexico, as well as cooperation in areas of mutual interest at the global level.

Police Report On Assault And Arrest On Attempted Murder
San Pedro Police report of an attempted murder incident that took place on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 in the San Mateo Area. Initial Investigation reveals that about 3:45 p.m., Alexia del Carmen Melendez (45yrs) was walking home on an unnamed Street in San Mateo Area, when a well-known male person riding a bicycle approached her and attacked her with a knife inflicting the injuries. At the Poly Clinic, police report observing Melendez suffering from cut wounds to left side of neck and lower neck.

Misc Belizean Sources

"A Plastic Ocean" to be shown in San Pedro
November 2nd, 6pm at the Mar Alliance office on Coconut Drive, San Pedro Town- A timely and pertinent showing of the award-winning documentary "A Plastic Ocean" and a post viewing discussion on solutions to reduce plastic use and refuse in Belize. The event is FREE and light refreshments will be served.

Government of Belize Signs Contract for the Updating of a Feasibility Study and the Preparation of Detailed Designs for the Upgrading of the Coastal Highway
The Ministry of Works informs the general public that a contract for provision of consultancy services for the preparation of a feasibility study and detailed designs for upgrading of the Coastal Highway (Manatee Road) was signed today between the Government of Belize, Ministry of Works and a reputable Italian Consultancy firm, Politecnica Ingegneria ed Architettura Societa Cooperativa (Politecnica). The detailed design of the Coastal Highway will allow for upgrading of 36.2 miles/58 km of road to paved standard, inclusive of climate adaption measures to build resilience against climate change impacts. The consultancy study is to be completed within ten (10) calendar months after contract signing.

Address delivered by Dr. the Hon. Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada and Chairman of the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community
On the Occasion of the Fourth Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Mexico, Belize City, Belize 25 October 2017. I wish, first, to welcome all of you to Belize. Whether you are a first-time visitor to our shores or have been here before, you will know either by reputation or experience that our tremendous physical attractions and the warm hospitality of our people are very much yours to enjoy. It is a pity that the compressed squeeze of our allotted time, together with the extended nature of our agenda, will not allow any leisurely sampling of Belize’s pleasures. What it will do, though, is to persuade you that opportunities to return in the future must be found, manufactured even, and acted upon with alacrity.

Hector Verdugo speaking in Belmopan
Hector Verdugo, a former gang member, now Associate Executive Director of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, is in Belize as part of the Embassy's Speaker Program! To hear Hector's message, come to the Civic Center in Belmopan, Friday, October 27, at 10:00 a.m.!

Laura Garcia-Godfrey featured at Belize Museum
As promised, we continue to feature outstanding women in art. Today we invite you to join us in admiring the talent of Laura Garcia-Godfrey. Laura likes to create art with pastel and water color. Her favorite subjects are people, capturing the eyes as her starting point. Come over to the Museum of Belize and admire her work!

Call for a multi-party national assembly in Belize
The Belize Progressive Party (BPP) welcomes the recent statement by the deputy party leader of the opposition, the honorable member from Cayo, who stated that the “Independents” have a major contribution to make to the National Assembly and the country. Honorable Espat urged Belizeans not to fall victim to the one-party dictatorship that we have been living since independence, 36 years ago. This one-party government has been undemocratic and in fact robs Belizeans of their human and democratic rights. The BPP is determined to establish an equal voice for all the Belizean people, to end and bury official corruption and impunity.

Essay Contest for students from Secondary Schools, Colleges & Universities
Attention students! Want to win a free Dell laptop? Explain one type of Corruption that you have observed or personally experienced in Belize, and outline your proposed solution for addressing that type of corruption. Deadline: 15 November 2017 The extent of the essay should be 1.5 - 2 pages or 500 words

Gate filled at Sarteneja Nazarene Primary School
We want to take this opportunity to publicly thank Mr. Calin Tamai for land filling the entrance gate of our school. Mr. Tamai has been cleaning our little field also on a monthly basis and we are very grateful.

Go St.Francis Xavier Primary School Blue Jays!
We're proud to represent Corozal District at the Basketball National Tournament in Belize City on 3rd November 2017. Congratulations Blue Jays!!!!

Power outage 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., Friday, October 27: entire Belize City inclusive of all areas up to Mile 1 Philip Goldson Highway and Mile 1 George Price Highway
BEL to conduct urgent maintenance works at Belize City Substation.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
The rest of the movies are gonna be posted a little later, we are going to play 2 different scary movies each night for a total of 6 this weekend, and making the poster for that is gonna be.. horrific. We are Definitely playing Cars 3 and Atomic Blonde every night on screen 1 and alternating scary movies on screen 2. Atomic Blonde, Cars 3

Belize Archives and Records Service inaugural lecture series
The Belize Archives and Records Service (BARS) is organizing its first inaugural lecture series. The purpose of the series (to be held every other year or so) is to host a lecture by scholars who have carried out substantial research at BARS and has gained scholarly recognition for his or her work. Please see the details below. Lecture: Mapping, Colonialism and the Making of Southern Belize Presenter: Dr. Joel Wainwright, Professor, Ohio State University Venue: Fr. Francis J. Ring, S.J. Parish Hall, Punta Gorda Town Date and Time: Friday, 3 November, 2017; 11:00 am - 12:00 pm We look forward to your attendance.

Cultural night with the Great Panamanian Folkloric Gala
Saturday, November 4th ... Bliss Centre... Free

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MRS. LILA VERNON MBE!
We will hold you in our hearts forever. Last day of this five day "Cantata" to the incredible blessing that came our way. Life was not all sweet for you but you surely made the best of it. You gave us hope and showed us how to succeed against all odds. You will always be remembered as Mrs. LILA VERNON MBE --THE LEGEND and BELIZEAN HERO. with love Julet Vernon-Austin. To all family and friends who took the time to like and comment on this post and the others, really appreciate your time, love and support you gave to our celebration of the life of Mrs. Lila Vernon MBE. Blessings to you and your families. Have a fabulous day. I could not add all family members and in laws, there is not enough space! Love you all!

Official Opening Night-Belize International Film Festival 2017
Thursday, November 9 at 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM, Bliss Center for Performing Arts Belize City, Belize. JOIN US FOR THIS GLAMOUROUS RED CARPET EVENT THAT WILL BE BROADCASTED LIVE ON CHANNEL 5!

Channel 7

Controversial Cop Under Investigation - Did He Plant A Bullet In Underwood's Yard?
Last night we told you about SSG Boss Alex Underwood - who was remanded - along with his brother Curtis - for a single live round of ammunition found in his yard. Underwood's family told us it was planted - and tonight there is sensational news supporting that claim. It turns out that Alex Underwood has security cameras in his yard - and those cameras have allegedly captured a well-known and controversial police officer planting the bullet in their yard. The allegation by police was that the single round of ammunition was found inside a sanitary pad in the yard.

Police Launch Major Crime Operation in Belize City
And while the unravelling of that case could bring down a cop who's made a lot of enemies in the streets, police have much bigger plans to bring crime under control in Belize City. Tomorrow, the Minister of State responsible for Police, Elodio Aragon and the Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie will have a Press Conference to announce a major police operation targeting the southside which will roll out tomorrow. This comes out of strategy sessions held yesterday and today with the senior command and all senior officers. The meetings were held at the Queen Street and Raccoon Street police stations.

Opposition Leader Says Bringing Back Chester Is Not Enough
But, Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno is not likely to be impressed. He held a press conference today to discuss a broad range of issues, primary among them, crime on the southside. Briceno said bringing back Chester Williams is a step in the right direction, but spoke also of what's driving the serial of violent crime:... Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "I am told now that they are sending back Chester Williams into the Southside. It's not necessarily a bad thing. He seemed to have things under control. But sending Chester Williams in itself maybe a band aid solution, a temporary solution, but it is not going to address the real issues that are affecting our people; the issue of poverty, the issue of housing, the issue of lack of education, especially in the Southside."

Cardinal Clings To Life
And the latest victim of violent crime in the St. Martin's area is 28-year-old Cardinal Andrews. As we reported last night, he was shot to the head in broad daylight on Partridge Street. Tonight, despite the fact of a bullet wound that penetrated his skull, he is clinging to life. Not much was known about the young Andrews yesterday but today we learned a little bit more. Even though his family is not ready to appear on camera they were still willing to share some information about their loved one. Sahar Vasquez reports:

7 Year old Shooting Victim Is Critical, But Improving
And while he is critical, so is 7-year-old Mali Herrera. On Tuesday night, she was sitting with her grandmother watching the news when a shooter opened fire on their house, hitting 60 year old Judith Rocke in the forearm, while Mali was shot in the back. The bullet went right through her, causing serious internal injury. She underwent a long surgery and it seems to have been a success. Her family tells us she is no longer on the ventilator, she is responding to verbal communication, and is now in a more stable condition - but still critical. Little Malia Herrera still has a long way to go but is expected to recover. The shooter has still not been identified as police continue to investigate.

Cops Say "Cross Di Nitro" Crossed The Line
On Monday, he posted a Facebook video that frightened Belizeans all across the country, and, today, the artist named Cross Di Nitro went to court to answer for it. His real name is Shikell Nunez, and he is a 24 year old rapper. Today in court, he was charged with threat of death before Magistrate Stephanie Gillett. Nunez pled not guilty to the charge. The prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that the offence is a serious one and if tolerated it can become more serious. In response Nunez said that on the day he made the video clip he was frustrated and he had overreacted with certain words. He said he was in fear of his life and the life of his manager, Kenneth "Big Tom" Flowers. Magistrate Gillett upheld the objection and she remanded Nunez into custody until December 11.

Briceno Tells SSB Don't Lend BAA 7M For Caye Caulker Airstrip
For weeks now, we've been reporting on the problems with the Caye Caulker airstrip. Both Tropic Air and Maya Island Air have suspended flights to that destination because of the condition of the runway. They say the Belize Airports Authority has to fix it urgently - and every day they don't tourists are inconvenienced and the airlines lose money. Well, the BAA has been trying to source funding for this multi-million dollar venture, but without much success. Today the leader of the opposition pounced on a confidential report that the opposition got its hands on. It says that the amount of funding for the runway refurbishment that the BAA is trying to get from Social Security is 7 million dollars. Opposition leader John Briceno noted with pleasure that the Prime Minster said in the House of Representatives on Friday that it was four million dollars:...

PUP Leader Will Not Include Deputy Kareem Musa On His Slate
And the leader of the opposition can focus on the UDP because - all indications are - he will not face a leadership challenge in his party's national convention next month. The deadline to submit the names for executive posts is tomorrow at 4:00 pm, and it seems the status quo will remain - the present executive will be endorsed for another term, That is, the status quo, maybe minus one. Deputy Leader for the East Kareem Musa had briefly indicated that he was considering challenging Briceno - and so he didn't put his name on Briceno's slate. Today, Briceno told us that Musa never got back to him, so he is moving on:..

Hon. Espat Shadowboxes With UDP PAC Members
Julius Espat will be on that slate as Deputy Leader for the West. And today he was back in Belmopan, fighting, not against the police, but maybe just shadowboxing with UDP members of the Pac Committee who did not show up for a scheduled meeting. PAC is the only house committee which the Opposition chairs - and Espat holds that seat. Today, the Committee was supposed to be combing through the Auditor General's Annual Report for the year, April 2012 to March 2013. That's the report which was released earlier this year in which the Auditor General flags several areas of public spending. In today's meeting, the Auditor General was supposed to have appeared before the Committee to give testimony. That couldn't happen because none of the Government's 4 PAC members showed up. We were in Belmopan to speak with Chairman Julius Espat, who jumped on the opportunity to harshly criticize the Government for the canceled meeting. Here's what he and fellow member Kareem Musa had to say:

Protecting Sexual Abuse Victims In The Justice System
Almost every night on the news, we report on those disturbing stories of incest, molestation, sexual assault, unlawful carnal knowledge and rape. But, behind those stories are victims traumatized not just by what happened to them, but by the shame of having to go into open court and face their accusers and a jury, or to give a statement to police, who many times aren't the most compassionate professionals. And that's why Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin today launched the Model Guidelines for Sexual Offence Cases in the Caribbean in Belize. Justice Michelle Arana explained that the systems as it currently stands, often re-victimizes victims. These new guidelines hope to change that:...

He Cracked Nikita Smith's Skull
On Tuesday we told you about a terrifying domestic dispute that occurred on Mayflower Street at the downstairs residence of Nikita Smith. Smith and her children were sleeping when they were attacked by Smith's Common law partner at around 5:30 am. Reportedly the night before Smith and her partner had a dispute which may have led to his sudden anger outburst that left all three of them injured, but Smith had the worst physical injury as a cement block was dropped on her head. Her family tells us that she is conscious and speaking now, but, today doctors found out that her skull is cracked, so they are trying to treat that injury. Smith's children are recovering at home but they are understandably still very traumatized by what happened to them and what they witnessed. The police continue to investigate.

Woman Cut In San Pedro
In another case of domestic violence, yesterday around 3: 45 pm Alexia Del Carmen Melendez was walking home in the San Mateo area of San Pedro when a man riding a bicycle attacked her with a knife causing two cut wounds to the left side of her neck. The police have since arrested and charged 28-year-old Gilbert Anthony Palacio. Palacio is a construction worker of the San Mateo Area in San Pedro where the incident occurred. He has been charged with grievous harm, use of deadly means of harm, and attempted murder.

A Rusty Gun Robbed Pawnshop
There was a big money heist at a Belmopan pawnshop today. Capital cops say at 9:20 this morning, thieves made off with almost 60 thousand dollars in cash and valuables from First Stop Pawn Shop on Constitution Drive in Belmopan. The manager of the pawn shop, told police that 2 men entered, one of them pulled out a rusty handgun and demanded that they opened the lock to the burglar bar gate. Fearing for their lives, the pawnshop employees complied, and that's when both men cleaned them out of $8,500 in cash, and assortment of jewelry to total value of $51,000, and a cell phone. No one has been arrested yet.

Coastal Road to The Future
The Coastal Road is kind of like a secret weapon - from all those who dare to use it, it's a great shortcut to the south. But, by the time you're done, you may feel like your insides are scrambled! Well, now, the Government of Belize wants to pave that nearly 37 miles of road. But it's going to be a while before the upgrade works actually start. The Government signed a contract today with an Italian Engineering and Consultancy Firm to conduct a a 10-month feasibility study. The company is called Politecnica (Poli-technica), and today, in a rare invitation to the press, the Ministry of Works invited us to attend the contract signing. Here's what the Works Minister had to say about the project:

What About Anke's Kids?
For months now we've been reporting on the sage of Anke Doehm, her adopted daughters, and their stepfather, David Doehm. Well, he committed suicide, and she still faces charges of child cruelty. But what about her children? Faye Lin Cannon died from malnutrition and abuse, but there are two other girls who remain in foster care here in Belize. Today the CEO in the Ministry of Human Development gave us an update:... Judith Alpuche, CEO - Ministry of Human Development: "The children remain in the care of the Department of Human Services and they are receiving counseling. As you can imagine there are lots of issues that they are dealing with coming out of this tragedy."

Marijuana Decriminalization: Vice or Virtue
Today, the media also asked CEO Alpuche about the decriminalization of small amounts of marijuana. Critics say the social fallout - especially among youths could be great - since it could lead to the normalized use of a gateway drug. But, others would say that many youths are already using it and ending up in jail for small amounts of weed. Alpuche says there's a government task force to analyze and reposed to the change in the law:... Judith Alpuche, CEO - Ministry of Human Development: "How do you implement this especially with regards to under 18 and so cabinet had instructed that 4 ministries and their technical personnel meet: Health, Human Development, Education and Home Affairs, the police. We met and discuss how the implementation would work and basically we outlined the barebones of a protocol as to how these things would be managed for under 18 and that was sent to cabinet and cabinet approved those recommendations."

Can Belize Get To Tier Two?
Alpuche also commented on Belize's tier three ranking for Human Trafficking - one of only two or three countries in the entire western hemisphere to be so classified by the US State Department. She was part of a rapid response team that went to Washington to meet with State Department Representatives to discuss who Belize could come up to a tier two ranking. Today she told the media that it's a process:... Judith Alpuche, CEO - Ministry of Human Development: "We are continuing on on the road of ensuring that we address human trafficking. We cannot manufacture arrests. We cannot manufacture victims. We deal with it as we see it and one of the things that although we only have one prosecution under the new law. One case has gone before under the new law. That case was won. The person was convicted. Maybe not the penalty that we wanted for sure."

Finally, PUP Mayoral Candidate Named
It's one of the most closely guarded secrets in all of politics: who will be on the PUP's City Council slate? Well, tonight we know whose going to be their Mayoral candidate. Confirming months of speculation, Leader John Briceno today told the press that Bernard Wagner is his candidate for mayor:.. Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition" "So I am very pleased to tell you that we have our slate. We have had meetings with them Tuesday and last night. Last night we had a meeting with all of them in this office and we are going to have a launch, not this weekend, but the following weekend, I think it's the fourth of November. And I am pleased to also announce that Bernard Wagner is going to be our mayoral candidate - a dynamic young man, a young man I've had the pleasure to meet; a person that is sincere, that is genuine, a person that has lived in Southside, has worked in Southside, that has worked with young people, has worked in the bank - so he is a rounded individual, that is not just depending on who he is but what he has done, that he is offering himself. So I am very excited about the team."

Courtney and Colleagues in San Fran
The 10th World Conference of Science Journalists. It's a major international event and this year it is being held in San Francisco. It is the first time it is being held in the US, And our Courtney Weatherburne is representing Belize along with her Caribbean colleagues. This conference is in connection with the Compete Caribbean Competition that Courtney and her team won in Barbados last year. The conference is a week long of forums, workshops and field trips and the theme is "Bridging Science and Societies". Science Journalists and researchers from all over the world are attending.

Pena Nieto Farewell
And finally tonight, we have a few words from Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. He addressed the media at the close of the fourth Belize - CARICOM summit - and sitting between two CARICOM leaders, Grenada's Keith Mitchell and Belize's Dean Barrow - he outlined the importance of the CARICOM region:.. Enrique Pena Nieto - President, Mexico: "...And also occasion to call upon the rest of the world to give greater attention to this region of the world -- the Caribbean region. This region that have had the opportunity to enjoy its beauty, whose primary economic activity centers on agriculture and also tourism and today requires greater visibility, greater attention above all." Pena Nieto flew out immediately after that press conference. It was his first visit to Belize and he spent about 8 hours here.

Channel 5

S.S.B. Warned Against Loan to Airport Authority; P.U.P. Agrees
A proposed loan by the Social Security Board to the Belize Airports Authority is making the headlines tonight. The said loan is to finance construction of the Caye Caulker Airstrip [...]

John B. Knocks the Caye Caulker ‘Hustle’
In Friday’s House meeting, Prime Minister Dean Barrow said that the amount being asked for was four million dollars and that the Board had yet to consider it. Meanwhile, Tourism [...]

Bernard Wagner to Lead P.U.P. CitCo Team?
Since the confirmation of the incumbent United Democratic Party’s slate in August, the announcement for the unveiling of the People’s United Party slate in Belize City has been hotly anticipated. [...]

Salary and Employment of B.T.L. C.E.O. ‘Insulting’
By far, C.E.O. of Belize Telemedia Limited Rochus Schreiber’s salary and benefits, amounting to more than seven hundred thousand Belize dollars, is the most paid to anyone in that role [...]

Faye Lin Cannon’s Remaining Siblings Continue to Heal
The battle over custody of the three surviving Cannon siblings continues in the Family Court. They are the younger siblings of the late Faye Lin Cannon, found dead with severe [...]

Franz Parke Case Back to Court on Monday
The Court of Appeal concludes its business for the current term on Friday, but one of its judges is facing a fight to keep his job. Recently appointed Franz Parke [...]

Modest Decrease for Regular Fuel; What Happened to Big Cuts?
Prime Minister Dean Barrow promised a significant fuel price reduction at a press conference, but he asked for a couple days grace for it to happen. According to the Prime [...]

P.U.P. Still Wants Bipartisan Crime Commission; Chester Comes Back
While Social Security dominated this afternoon’s press conference, the first issue raised by P.U.P. Leader John Briceño was crime, which has dominated this week’s news as it has many weeks. [...]

Family Describes Shock of Grandmother’s Shooting Injury; Child Still Hospitalized
A seven-year-old Saint Joseph Primary School student is tonight recovering back at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital from a gunshot wound to the back which exited her abdomen. Malli Herrera [...]

Cardinal Andrews Fighting for Life in K.H.M.H.
As seven-year-old Malli Herrera recovers at the K.H.M.H., Cardinal Andrews continues to fight for his life and remains on a ventilator inside the I.C.U. The twenty-eight-year-old Belize Water Services employee [...]

San Pedro Man Charged with Attack on Woman
While no one has been detained for either of the shootings in the city, on Ambergris Caye, a construction worker of the San Mateo area of San Pedro Town has [...]

Artist “Cross Di Nitro” Charged with Police Threats; He Says He Fears for His Life
Twenty-one-year-old Bernard Cayetano, aka Unlimited, a local artist was arraigned on Wednesday in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court for allegedly obstructing and assaulting a police officer, and resisting arrest. He [...]

Jamaican Foreign Minister Shares Decriminalization Experience
The recent decriminalization of a small quantity of marijuana for personal use is not unique to Belize. In fact, it follows a similar model that has been implemented in Jamaica [...]

Jamaica Takes Baby Steps Toward Legalization
Along with decriminalization is a broader conversation of legalizing the marijuana industry as a viable contributor to a country‘s Gross Domestic Product. That prototype would be similar to a model [...]

PAC Member Patrick Faber Hits Back at Chairman Espat
A session of the Public Accounts Committee during which Auditor General Dorothy Bradley was scheduled to appear, was called off earlier today when four U.D.P. ministers who sit on the [...]

New Guidelines Introduced for Dealing with Sex Charges
The Caribbean’s judicial officers have for the past few months been consulting on an issue of region-wide importance. With an increase reported in sexually-based offences, particularly here in Belize in [...]

Channel Five’s Marleni Cuellar Represents at Science Journalists’ Conference
Tonight, my colleague Marleni Cuellar is in San Francisco, U.S.A. where she is attending the tenth World Conference of Science Journalists. Marleni is teaming up with Channel Seven’s Courtney Weatherburne [...]

HIV in Belize: Infections Stable, Strides Made, More Work to Do
The Ministry of Health released the 2016 Annual HIV Statistical Report and the numbers show that there were fewer persons infected than in 2015. As in previous years, the report [...]

Ministry of Health Screwed Up Blood Bank?
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital has had to suspend elective surgeries because ten days ago, it reported that there has been a shortage of available blood due to a limited [...]

Jamaica’s INDECOM a Model for Addressing Police Issues
The spike in violent crimes across Belize City, as well as allegations of state-sanctioned killings as a possible solution to the rampant homicides that have gripped the Old Capital, has [...]

Designing a New Coastal Highway
The Ministry of Works signed a contract with Italian consultancy firm Politecnica for a feasibility study and detailed designs for the upgrading of the coastal road. Politecnica is the same [...]

How Telemedia Will Handle Planned U.S.-dollar Loan
In contrast to the debate in the House of Representatives which centered on the salary of its C.E.O., the Senate’s debate of the International Banking (Amendment) Bill focuses on Belize [...]

Why Temporary Residency is Necessary
An amendment to the Immigration Act proposes to create a new class of persons with legal immigration status in Belize. As the name suggests, temporary residency supposes that holders who [...]

CTV3

Electrocuted Victim Remains Unidentified.
Yesterday a man lost his life after he got electrocuted while in the Village of August Pine Ridge in the Orange Walk District. Today our news team visited the village to find out more about the circumstances behind the accident but what we found was more questions than answers. What we understand is that the victim, who is yet to be identified, approached a group of Mexican carnival operators, who are currently in the village, on Wednesday night asking for a job. According to the men, while the individual only know to them as “motto motto” was told they were not hiring at the time, he decided to stick around and helped out wherever he could.

UDP Ministers Derail PAC Meeting With Absence
On October 12th, a meeting of the Public Accounts Committee, scheduled to review the Auditor General’s most recent audit of the Government’s finances, for the fiscal year 2012-2013, was called off when the Committee learned that the Auditor General was out on country. The meeting was re-scheduled for today but could not be held because neither of the four Ministers of Government appointed to the Committee presented himself. The absence has incensed the Chairman Julius Espat and Opposition’s newly-appointed member Kareem Musa, and they are accusing the Government of derailing democracy.

Sugar Exports From ACP Countries Into Europe Will Decrease Says Belize's Ambassador To The EU
A report issued earlier this week in the Jamaican Newspaper “The Gleaner” indicates that the Belize Ambassador to the European Union, Dylan Vernon, is predicting that sugar exports from the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries into Europe will be decreased “significantly” as a result of the change in the regime that manages the EU sugar market. As viewers may be aware the EU regime changed from October 1st, this year with the removal of domestic quotas. According to the report, Vernon, who is also the chairman of the ACP Sugar Subcommittee told the just concluded 20th Meeting of the ACP Ministerial Trade Committee that a recent study on the impact of the EU sugar reform on ACP suppliers noted that, while the final outcome of the reform is uncertain, sugar production in the EU is expected to increase.

PUP Mayoral Candidate Asks For Disclosure Of Street Works Contract
You heard PUP Corozal Town Mayoral Candidate Rigo Vellos call on the outgoing Corozal Town Mayor Hilberto Campos and the Town Council to stop granting contracts to Imer Hernandez Development Company Limited for street works in that municipality. Vellos said that the evidence that the company delivers questionable work is overwhelming therefore the Council should look to more competent contractors, including the local ones in the Corozal District. Well, Vellos is keeping the pressure and yesterday he wrote the Mayor directly, calling on the Council’s provision of the contracts for street works to be made public. Vellos stated in his letter that the residents of Corozal have a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent.

Decriminalization Of Marijuana Draws Heated Debate At Senate Meeting
The proposed decriminalisation of marijuana legislation went before the Senate yesterday, attracting heavy discussion and debate. Lines were drawn by Senators based on scientific, religious and moral positions and it all made for interesting news. Here are some of the highlights and surprise declarations by some of the Senators. MarkSenator Mark Lizarraga - Business Senator: “Mr. President, we see medical professions in this and other studies associate marijuana use in differences in brain tissue integrity that and Mr. President, those are their words not mine, at predict and I quote; future risky behaviors such as delinquent and aggressive use, this part alone Mr. President, should give us pause when we begin to consider and take into account what we’ve seen happening in our country among our youths on the streets...”

LOVE FM

Briceno Opposes Loan from SSB to fix Caye Caulker’s Airstrip
The Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno, vehemently opposed a loan application made by the Belize Airport Authority to the Social Security Board. The loan application is for seven million dollars and is to repair the Caye Caulker municipal airstrip. Briceno shared the reasons why his party is opposed to the idea. John Briceno […]

Briceno: “The Root Cause of Crime is Poverty”
The Belize Police Department will present its new strategy to address the crime situation in Southside Belize City tomorrow morning. Love News understands that the senior command of the Department met today to design this new anti-crime strategy after being directed to by their bosses. For the past few months, we have been reporting about […]

Man on Life Support after being Shot
At approximately 4:00 p.m. yesterday, 28-year-old Cardinal Andrews was shot in the head. Andrews was sitting on a blue Toyota Tercel parked in front of his friend’s home on Partridge Street. While waiting for his friend, a lone gunman rode up on a bicycle and fired a single shot in his direction. The bullet penetrated […]

Bernard Wagner is PUP’s Mayoral Candidate for Belize City
Bernard Wagner will lead the PUP’s Belize City Municipal slate in the upcoming elections in March 2018. The announcement was made this evening by the party’s leader, John Briceno. John Briceno, Opposition Leader “I am pleased to also announce the Bernard Wagner is going to be our Mayoral candidate. A dynamic young man, a man […]

Briceno has High Hopes for Municipal Elections
It seems that John Briceno will not be contested for the upcoming PUP National Convention next month. The PUP’s Deputy Party Leader for the East, Kareem Musa, had considered challenging Briceno but he changed his mind, saying that it is a time for the PUP to be united and win big in the municipal elections. […]

Vellos requests Imer Hernandez contract be publicize
PUP Mayoral Candidate Rigo Vellos has written to the Corozal Mayor Hilberto Campos requesting that the Town Council make public the tendering process and contract granted to Imer Hernandez for street work in that municipality. The letter was sent to the Mayor on Wednesday in which Vellos states that previous works done by Hernandez in […]

Members of PAC failed to show up for Meeting
The Public Accounts Committee was scheduled to meet today in Belmopan but that did not happen. Area Representative for Cayo South, Julius Espat, who is the Chairman of the PAC, presented himself but was told that the other members could not make it for today’s meeting. Espat spoke to Love News. Julius Espat “The honorable […]

Chairman of CARICOM briefed Media on Meeting
Yesterday, Belize hosted the fourth CARICOM-Mexico Summit where leaders of Caribbean countries discussed regional issues with President of the United Mexican States, Enrique Pena Nieto. The meeting lasted a little over two hours and late yesterday evening, Chairman of the Caribbean Communities, Grenada’s Prime Minister, Keith Mitchell briefed the media on what was discussed and […]

No Bail for Nitro who made Death Threats against the Police
Twenty-four-year-old Shikell Nunez, aka “Nitro”, a musical artist, who allegedly made a video clip in which he threatened members of the GSU and their families with death, was charged with threat of death when he appeared today before Magistrate Stephanie Gillett. Nunez pled not guilty to the charge. The prosecutor objected to bail on the […]

Man charged with Grievous Harm for stabbing Woman
Police have charged a resident of San Pedro Ambergris Caye for having attacked and stabbed 45-year-old Alexia Del Carmen Melendez. According to police, 28-year-old Gilbert Anthony Palacio of the San Mateo Area attacked Melendez as she walked home on an unnamed street in that same area shortly before four o’clock on Wednesday afternoon. Palacio was […]

Seven-year-old Girl – Victim of Gun violence
A seven year old female child became a victim of gun violence in Belize City last night. Johnelle McKenzie files the report. A little girl is in a critical condition after being shot last night in Belize City. A family had just sat down to watch the news when all of a sudden a barrage […]

Faber: Family is Key to solve Crime
The gun violence that is plaguing our country is being carried out by the youths. The young people not only execute these senseless acts, but are also the victims. In last night’s shooting incident, one of the victims was only seven years old. The Department of Youth Services is doing a lot for the young […]

The Guardian

Bill passed to ‘pass the weed’ - 10 grams or less of Marijuana decriminalized
Commissioner of Police told the media on Tuesday October 24 that his department through Superintendent of police Bart Jones is conducting countrywide educational sessions with police officers to inform them of the Amendment of the Misuse of Drugs Act. This was one day before the senate met and ratified the bill on Wednesday October 25. The Bill will now be forwarded to the Governor General for ascension. Under the amendment it reads: “Where the controlled drug in a person’s possession is cannabis or cannabis resin in an amount of not more than ten grammes and – (a)… the possession is not unlawful and an offence is not committed thereby; -

Mexican President commits new school in Toledo during visit to Belize
A delegation of CARICOM Heads of State along with the President of the United Mexican States, H.E. Enrique Peña Nieto, was hosted at the Best Western Hotel on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 for the 4th Mexico-CARICOM summit. The relationship between Mexico and CARICOM dates back to July 30, 2017 after the CARICOM-Mexico Cooperation Agreement was signed. Since then, Mexico has been an important partner to CARICOM especially as it pertains to the areas of climate change, disaster management, health, food and security, national security, human resource development, and marine management. Disaster management is of particular relevance as CARICOM countries and Mexico just recently came to terms with one of the most catastrophic periods of natural disasters.

Earl Trapp delivers new town hall to San Ignacio and Santa Elena
In February of this year construction commenced on the new town hall for the twin towns of Santa Elena and San Ignacio. Under the stewardship of Mayor Earl Trapp the municipality’s offices had to be relocated from an old dilapidated structure to one where they are renting space for 7 thousand dollars per month. While the move was one that was necessary, the intention was always for the town board to have its own home and Mayor Trapp says that new home is nearing completion.

The financial toll of Pink Eye
Even as the numbers of the eye infection is taking a downward trend, the financial toll is taking an upward one. When persons are infected with Pink Eye, they are advised to stay out of school and out of the work place, that translates into loss of productivity as well as loss of wages. The organization that takes up the slack with wages is the Social Security Board. The Guardian spoke to Chief Executive Officer at the board who reports that as of October 18, SSB has processed 5,174 claims for pink eye for the month of September and a portion of October. These claims resulted in a total of 24,302 sick days, which resulted in Social Security Board paying out over $704,000 in sickness benefits. This figure is however not a full picture as the epidemic is still ongoing and claims keep coming into the board on a daily basis. It is estimated that by the end of it the board would have paid out at least a million dollars in benefits.

New Haulover Bridge on the way
On a daily basis there are between 6,500 and 7 thousand vehicles that travel on the Haulover bridge from the Airport into Belize city and between 11,000 and 11,800 that travel on the bridge in the opposite direction. Engineers say the loading capacity of the bridge has long been exhausted and the reality is that the bridge is surviving basically on borrowed time. Time and again there have been repairs done on the bridge but when inspections are done on the underside it is quite evident that the bridge has very little time left.

BTB holds 15th National Tourism Award Gala Event
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) held its highly anticipated 15th National Tourism Awards Gala Event on Saturday, October 21st at the Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel. The event was well attended with guests coming from all regions of Belize. Distinguished guests included, Hon. Patrick Faber, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr., Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation, and Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, Special Envoy for Women and Children, among others. The 15th National Tourism Awards was an elegant celebration of the accomplishments made throughout the year by tourism partners and friends.

Hon. Elodion Aragon Jr., addresses flooding in Carmelita
On Monday morning residents of Carmelita woke of to the frustrating reality of having to deal with flooding. The continuous rainfall over the weekend caused some localized flooding in the village. Several residents came out to see how they could address the situation but there was not much that they could do without heavy equipment. Area representative Hon. Elodio Aragon, who is always abreast of what happens in his area, responded immediately and with the assistance of the Public Works Department personnel from Orange Walk tackled the problem.

Minister Aragon holds strategy meeting with police
The recent spate of crimes in Belize City has given rise to concerns and rightly so. The cause has been attributed to the drug trade. For the most part the killings have been confined to the members of the underground community. There have been instances however where innocent bystanders have been caught in the crossfire. This situation has reached unacceptable proportions and a move is being made by the police to address it immediately.

BDF Captain secures Master of Arts in Strategic Security Studies
Belize Defence Force Captain, Eric Neal has completed a year of studies at the National Defence University in the U.S. Neal told the Guardian that he enrolled for the course on the 8th of July 2016 and graduated on the 8th June 2017. In a release from the BDF it states that, “He also obtained honours for his thesis entitled “Managing Indigenous People in Belize: Guaranteeing Security and Rights for All”. Furthermore, Captain Neal’s high level of academic performance was reflected in his cumulative G.P.A of 3.89.”

B.D.F. Price Barracks hospital renovated
The U.S. Marines have been working along with the Belize Defense Force over a 4-month period in an effort to renovate the hospital at the Price Barracks. This task, valued at over half million Belize dollars, was funded by the U.S. Southern Command’s Humanitarian Civic Action. This project was the brain child of Commander, Brigadier General David Jones and the 2015 US Ambassador Carlos Moreno. These men made the way for the 33 Marines and the team of Light Engineering personnel from the BDF to accomplish this feat.

Belmopan roundabout features Olmec head
Residents and visitors in Belmopan were taken aback this week as workers labored arduously to install a new feature to the roundabout that is near the Belmopan Hospital. Having been completed a few months ago, the roundabout was adopted by Print Belize who has pledged to maintain it. This week in collaboration with the Mexican Embassy, who donated a sculpture of an Olmec head in honor of the visit of Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto, the sculpture was installed. The donation is a gesture of continued friendship between Mexico and Belize and the Belmopan City Council which has responsibility for the roundabout.

Flooding in Cayo: once bitten twice shy says Mayor Earl Trapp Junior
The local authorities in San Ignacio continue to keep a watchful eye on the Macal River on Wednesday after it had receded about two feet at last report on Tuesday. Almost incessant rains over the last few days has caused both the Macal and the Mopan Rivers to rise. The hammock bridge in Arenal village was overturned by the raging Mopan earlier this week. On Wednesday morning Mayor Earl Trapp Junior informed market vendors to go back to their working places after having feedback from both the National Emergency Management Organization NEMO and the Weather Bureau. On Tuesday, Mayor Earl Trapp had been making the rounds at the market informing vendors to evacuate after warnings from NEMO and “knowing three dams were spilling over.”

G.R.E.A.T. CUP 2017 Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony for the Gang Resistance Education and Training Program - G.R.E.A.T. CUP 2017 was held at the BTL Park in Belize City on Saturday, October 21, 2017. The sporting competition is supported by the U.S. Embassy through the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) section, which provides equipment, uniforms and trophies for the participants. Cadets and G.R.E.A.T. students from the Eastern Division Community Policing program were represented and they came from Precinct One, Precinct Two, Precinct Three, Precinct Four, Ladyville, Hattieville and Coastal (Caye Caulker and San Pedro).

HIV Statistics show decrease in infection rate
The HIV trend throughout the country has seen a decline over the past few years. While there is an estimated total of 3,665 persons living with the disease, of over 32,000 tests done in 2016, there was only a 0.7% positivity rate. Of those 3,665 persons living with the disease, 1,353 were receiving anti-retroviral drugs as of December 2016. Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero told the Guardian that treatment is available for all who need it. He noted that it is only provided however to those with a CD4 count of 500 and less.

Media Boycott ends
The Police and the Media relations which had been strained for quite some time now and which has seen the media boycotting the police twice has been addressed. On Tuesday October 24 the Commissioner of Police called a meeting with key players of the mainstream media. The meeting was held at the Raccoon Street Police Station and both media and Police representatives put forth their concerns and at the end of it all they agreed to the following: “We’ve agreed that the police and the media do need to be working together in a more cooperative and collaborative fashion and so we have agreed that twice per week senior officers will be made available that will be doing press briefings to the media here at the Raccoon Street Conference Room.

PUP Devils talking about Sin
Undoubtedly Belizeans have become accustomed to hearing the members of that CRIMINAL GANG a.k.a. the People's United Party accusing the MEMBERS of the United Democratic Party of all sorts of fraud and outlandish things. However Belizeans know better than to believe the PUP’s claims. They know that it is the PUP who are the ones that have always been guilty of everything that they have been accusing the UDP of. Last Friday at the House of Representatives was no different, as the members on the PUP side of the house went on an all-out offensive in an effort to try and accuse the members of the UDP administration of PUP-type of hustling.

Senators and bridges
With Senators generally not being politicians, one would have expected the quality of the debates at the Senate, to be at much more higher level. Also it would have been expected that the senators affiliated with the opposition, would not be opposing just for opposing or because they had been instructed to oppose, rather than debating on the merits and demerits of the specific bill being debated. For example on Wednesday of this week there was a debate on a loan motion that was requesting the Senate’s Approval for a concessionary loan of US TWELVE MILLION DOLLARS, from the Opec Fund for International Development (OFID).

U.S. Embassy hosts Hector Verdugo, ex-gang member, for motivational speech
Given the surge of crime and youth gang activity going on in our country, the United States Embassy along with the Bureau of International Information Programs have embarked on a task to implement a program that focuses on those problem areas. On Monday, October 23, 2017 at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts, Hector Verdugo spoke to several Belizean high school students as a part of the program.

Statue of Sir Barry unveiled
Presentation by Dixie Bowen, Barry Bowen’s wife: Good Morning~ Protocol having been established, welcome Ladies and Gentlemen, invited guests, friends and family. Thank you for joining us today. It is my privilege to have been requested by the BAA to be asked to commission a statute of Sir Barry for The Sir Barry Bowen Airport, renamed in his honor last November. The truth be known, Sir Barry was always taken by statues. When traveling he would always take time to stop and really study this form of art and I know today he would be so very proud of his lasting remembrance of himself, at the airport he so painstakingly designed and was determined to make a reality. I would like to take this time to share the story behind the sculptor and this statue coming to fruition…. I had been approached or had suggestions from several parties about who might be the artist to take on this project. Then Michael told me Hilly knew of various artists in Cuba, had a particular artist in mind and that it would be a good idea to travel there to procure the proper sculptor.

Feeding Programs in Belmopan Area being boosted
Last Thursday, Belmopan Police commenced a much needed feeding program at the San Martin Government Primary school in the Nation’s Capital. This will see some 25 children being fed a nutritious breakfast daily. A release from the Belmopan Police has thanked the staff, parents and the Mira family for supporting this initiative. In a statement from the St. Martin’s Government School it states that: Good things are happening at St. Martin’s Government School this school year. Our first day of our feeding program made possible with the collaboration of the Belmopan Police Department and Mr. Howell Gillett.

BWS employees clings to life after being shot in the head
At press time tonight, 28 year-old Cardinal Andrews, a resident of Burrell Boom Village, is clinging to life after he was shot in the head in the Saint Martins area of Belize City. At around 4 p.m., on Wednesday, October 25, 2017, Andrews was socializing in front of a friend’s house on Partridge Street when a gunman shot him in the back of the head. The bullet is said to have exited through his forehead. It is not known at this time why he was targeted, but persons who were around at that time rushed to his aid, and he was swiftly transported to the KHMH via a police mobile. Police continue to insist that he survived the attack, and is at the hospital, where doctors are trying to save his life.

Two brothers killed in 12 days
The Almendarez family from the Lake Independence area of Belize City lost another son to gun violence. 25 year-old Shaquawn Almendarez was shot and killed by a gunman who came looking for him at his home. His older brother, Jason Almendarez, was murdered in another shooting only 12 days before that. The incident happened at around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 22, at the Almendarez family home on Electric Avenue. Shaquawn Almendarez was just about to enter his front gate when a dark-skinned shooter approached him and shot him in the right side of the chest and the right wrist. His family was at home, and his mother, Karen Almendarez, told the press that the execution of her son caused an uproar in her house, with one of her other sons, shouting angrily at the retreating gunman.

Former BDF Volunteer walks away from murder charge
The trial against Jermaine Rhaburn, a 24-year-old former BDF volunteer, ended on Tuesday, October 24, 2017. Rhaburn was accused of shooting and killing another colleague, 21-year-old Private Clifford Cruz, with an M16 rifle during an incident at the Militia Hall compound. Allegations against Rhaburn are that he and Cruz became engaged in a struggle. Cruz took Rhaburn in a chokehold which caused Rhaburn to not be able to breathe. Rhaburn informed Cruz of this but Cruz continued to hold him which forced Rhaburn to crank his M16 rifle and shoot Cruz in the abdomen.

Grandmother and grand-daughter shot on New Road
On Tuesday, October 24, police received information of a shooting incident and visited #96 New Road where they saw Judith Rocke, 60-years-old, suffering from a gunshot wound to the right forearm. Her 7-year-old granddaughter, Malli Herrera, was also seen with gunshot injuries to the lower back and abdomen. They were both rushed to the KHMH. While Rocke has since been discharged, Herrera remains hospitalized and is listed in a critical but stable condition at the Pediatric Ward.

Senior citizen left to die in drain
On Monday, October 16, 2017 at 10:45 p.m., Belize City Police visited the KHMH where they saw 82-year-old Ricardo Benito Vasquez of Bagdad Street with an abrasion to his right cheek and right hand and a cut wound to the back of his head. Investigations revealed that earlier that night, Vasquez was walking on Water Lane heading towards Bagdad Street when he was approached by a male person who inflicted the injuries and made good his escape. The reports are that Vasquez was at a game shop and after he left to head home, he was assaulted and left to die in a nearby drain.

Sydney Lamb killed and robbed
The life of 42 year-old Sydney Lamb, a resident of Oleander Street in Belize City, was cut short by gun violence. The victim was shot and killed while on his way home, and his family suspects that he was robbed by either the gunman, or someone else after he was fatally injured. Sydney Lamb, or “Belly”, as he was also known, went to a shop on Casuarina Street at around 7:20 p.m. on Saturday, October 21. He had only just purchased a few items, and while he was heading home, a gunman rode by on bicycle and shot him. Reports are that his assailant got off his bicycle, and shot Lamb several more times before leaving.

Underwood brothers on remand for ammunition
Two well-known criminal figures who have managed to previously beat a murder charge are presently behind bars after allegations against them came up regarding firearm ammunition. They are brothers Alexander Underwood, 28, and Austin Underwood, 24. They were found on October 23, 2017 with a 5.56 bullet. The brothers appeared unrepresented before Magistrate Michelle Trapp at the Belize City Magistrates Court on October 24, 2017 where they were read a single charge of kept prohibited ammunition. Both plead not guilty to the charge but due to the nature of the offenses, they could not be granted bail.

Belizean recording artist Unlimited faces criminal charges
On Wednesday, October 25, 2017, local recording artist, 21-year-old Bernard Cayetano a.k.a “Unlimited”, was taken to court to be arraigned on three criminal charges. He was brought before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser to be read the charges of obstruction, resisting arrest, and assaulting a police officer. The police allege that on Tuesday, October 24, 2017, Cayetano resisted the arrest of Officer Valdez and proceeded to assault him in an attempt to obstruct him from executing a search at a house on Croton Lane in Belize City. In court, Cayetano pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released on bail of $1,000 with an adjournment for January 13, 2018. According to Cayetano, the charges laid against him were made in an attempt to justify police brutality against him at the home of Kenneth “Big Tom” Flowers, his boss.

Verdes FC blank the Belize Defence Force FC in Premier League Football competition
The Premier League of Belize 2017 Opening Season competition continued over the last week end with three games played. On Saturday 21st October, at the Football Federation of Belize Stadium in Belmopan, Verdes FC blanked the host team Belize Defence Force FC by the score of 2-0. The 1st goal of the game was scored by Jarret Davis in the 22nd minute of play to give his team an early lead. The first half of the game ended 1-0 in favour of the visiting Verdes FC. The 2nd and final goal of the game was scored by Elroy Kuylen in the 90th minute of play to give his team the 2-0 victory.

Stars Academy wins in CYPD Peace Cup Competition
The Conscious Youth Development programme 2017 Peace Cup Football competition continued over the last week of play with three games on the schedule. On Saturday 21st October, in the first of three games played, Stars Academy defeated R &G; City Boys by the score of 4-2. The goals for Stars Academy were scored by Jahron Myvette, Harold Thompson (2) and Shemar Thompson. Meanwhile, the goals for R & G City Boys were scored by Keron Patnett and Michael Augustine.

Belize Rural Primary School wins rural girls’ and boys’ basketball competition
The Belize District Rural Primary Schools Basketball elimination for zones 1, 2, 3 and 4 took place on Tuesday 17th October, 2017, at the Ladyville Basketball Court. Four girls’ team namely Burrell Boom Methodist School, St. Therese RC School (Burrell Boom), Belize Rural Primary School and Lucky Strike Government School participated in the competition while the schools that participated in the boys’ competition are Burrell Boom Methodist School, St. Therese RC School (Burrell Boom), Belize Rural Primary School, Lucky Strike Government School and Our Lady of the Way RC School (Ladyville).

National Track and Field Championship rescheduled for November
The Belize Athletics Association invites all athletes and track enthusiasts once again to be a part of a National Track and Field Championship event. The event will take place at the Marion Jones Sports Complex on November 4-5, 2017. All athletes 16 years and older can participate in the events. Registration forms can be obtained from and returned back to the Belize Athletics Association via email [email protected] or from their Facebook page (Belize Athletics Association) or at the Marion Jones Sports Complex. The registration fee to participate in the National Track and Field championship is $10.00.

“…the obligation of you and your fellows to treat the Government badly.”
Prime Minister Dean Barrow on NEWS 5; Oct 18, 2017: “We are concerned and I have said that it is the duty of the Government to treat you well, despite the fact that it seems to be the obligation of you and your fellows to treat the Government badly. (Applause) But that is the way it is…” Mose was totally wrong about the meaning of a very simple word, yet the complete Belize Media participated in his ‘Chicken Little Parade!” Wil, Lisa, Eamon, Keisha, Luke, Giovanni, Sulph, etc., couldn’t do it for Mose; so he turned to Indira and Emaun. The new dead dog that he is beating is titled: “Media Friends Duped To Assist Mose Pay Zinc Fence’s Bills And To Help Dodo Bird Cordel Deliver Victory For PUP Johnny!”

Story No done Yet
After I wrote my article last Wednesday I noted in the news that same night that the Honorable Kareem had decided not to offer a challenge to Mr. Briceño for the post of PUP Party Leader which made me think that maybe I had fired off prematurely with my prediction of an ugly fight, but a friend later consoled me that the “pin in that story no ben yet”, in other words, the story still has several additional chapters of intrigue and suspense yet to unravel. He suggested to me that the wily young Musa is bidding his time and patience and will wait for an opportune date between March 7, 2018 and November 5, 2020 to make his move. We will all wait and see how that drama evolves over the next two years, God spare life.

Gossip
Gossip can seem like harmless fun until you are its target. There’s something entertaining about talking about other people among your friends, but when you are the one being talked about, it’s not easy. It happens to everyone at one time or another. You walk into a room or up to a table at lunch where everyone had been talking and laughing, and suddenly there’s silence. Or maybe people who are normally nice to you suddenly start giving you funny looks and don’t want to talk to you. Odds are when this happens you’ve become the target of gossip. Someone started a rumor about you that’s being passed around. It’s probably something silly, unbelievable and untrue, but that doesn’t mean it won’t change people’s opinions of you. Sometimes it is true, and that can hurt even more because you probably shared a secret with a friend and suddenly it was all over school.

Breaking Belize News

GOB sign contract for consultancy services valued at US $995,000
The Ministry of Works informs the general public that a contract for provision of consultancy […]

Police issues report on shooting on Patridge Street, Belize City
Shortly after 4 pm yesterday, Police visited the K.H.M.H where they saw Cardinal Andrews, 28, of Burrell Boom Village […]

Woman stabbed on the neck in San Pedro Town
Yesterday around 4 pm, San Pedro Police visited the Poly Clinic in San Pedro Town and […]

‘Not a free for all’, says Attorney General
Yesterday, a bill to amend the Misuse of Drugs Act was presented in the Senate. […]

Unlimited charged for assaulting police officer
Young Belizean artist Unlimited was charged yesterday in Belize City. Bernard “Unlimited” Cayetano was being […]

Taiwan donates $25,000 to Youth conference
The World Youth conference is coming to Belize this year. The event will be hosted […]

Cool weather to continue
The 24-hour forecast is for fair, windy and cool conditions to prevail with some moisture […]

Laker legend traces roots through Belize
Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr., known to the world as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, legendary Laker center and […]

Blogs

Belize Tourism Board’s Tourism Industry Conference 2017
On Friday October 20, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) held its annual Tourism Industry Conference for local hoteliers and tour companies at The Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel. The event was an opportunity for stakeholders to learn about tourism related developments and trends affecting the country as well as providing an overview of BTB’s Marketing & Public Relations plan. This year’s theme was based on “Sustainable Tourism and its Impact on the Belize Market” and counted on the presence of numerous international speakers. The morning session of the summit focused on Responsible Tourism and Best Practices: Its Value and Importance and discussed areas such as Safety & Security Requirements in the Tourism Industry (Dr. Peter Tarlow), Building a Better World Through Responsible Tourism (Trudi Pearce from Brighter Group), and Framework for Capacity Building (Amanda Charles from Caribbean Tourism Organization). The second half of the event demonstrated on Food Tourism & a Sense of Place in Belize (Erik Wolf), How Belize Can Adapt as an Emerging Culinary Destination (Alfredo Echevverría) and Creating a Sustainable Culinary Plan (Joxan Obando).

Meet our local tour guides! Guest blog from Mark Leslie, CayeQuest private tours...
Mark Leslie is a longtime local tour guide from one of Placencia's original families, the Leslie's. Mark is guest writing a blog today, to feature a great excursion he offers to guests!! Mark Leslie, enthusiast and passionate of his ancestry of seafarers, who inhabited the surrounding islands of Southern Belize, long before settling on mainland Placencia, surviving and living off the environment. Mark with this legacy, will guide you through unexplored sunken patch reefs, known only to a few local generations of fisher folks. Witness and experience the coral reef exploding with life in their natural habitat, in the clear turquoise waters Belize’s barrier reef. Watch as your lunch is hunted and speared, the traditional way. Castaway on a remote private island as your fresh catch is prepared and cooked on an open fire. Discover the true essence of Placencia lifestyles of eon gone as you leave your comfort zone and venture into an idyllic and unimaginable existence.

The Belize Tourism Awards 2017
On Saturday, October 21st, the annual Belize Tourism Awards was held in Belize City at The Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel. This year marked the 15th anniversary of this event and the celebrations and awards did not disappoint. Every year I look forward to this post since it’s a great way to keep up-to-date with the best resorts, hotels, tour operators, tour guides, and frontline personnel of Belize. Kudos to the 2017 award winners, and a bigger shout out to all the tourism stakeholders that support the industry and make Belize a top travel destination. Here are the Belize Tourism Awards 2017 winners along with short videos created for them by the Belize Tourism Board:

Queen Conch in Belize
As we discovered in a previous blog, everything is not always as it seems. Cashew nut is in fact a fruit and chocolate comes from a seed. This month we talk a little about one of Belize’s favorite foods, Conch; where it lives, how its caught, how its cooked and how… it’s a snail! If you are eating conch in Belize, you are most likely eating Queen Conch. Horse Conch or mai mula as it is locally known is also eaten especially in ceviche but sadly it is now rare and considered a delicacy. Queen Conch is a large sea snail that can be found close to the reef in shallow water in the sand or seagrass. Conch don’t like to stay in one place and tend to travel miles looking for food. They move about in groups or schools using their “foot” to drag them across the sandy sea bottom. Local fishermen are skilled at knowing where to find them and only those with a commercial fishing license are allowed to catch them. They are relatively easy to catch but extracting what’s inside requires skill and precision. The fisherman makes a small hole in the spiral part of the shell preferably using another conch shell (a knife is liable to break). This hole breaks the vacuum inside the shell making the meat easy to extract.

Xunantunich: Belize’s Maya Archaeological Gem
The Cayo District in western Belize, is known for its winding rivers, honeycomb caves, dense rainforest jungle, colorful birds, elusive jaguars, and rich Mennonite farmland. It is also the Mundo Maya, the center of the Maya World. For anyone interested in Maya archaeology and culture…the Cayo is a must see. Whenever my husband Mike, and I visit, we make a point to visit the Maya archaeological sites. Most recently, we visited Xunantunich, one of the most popular Maya sites in Belize. From San Ignacio, the regional main town, it takes 20 to 30 minutes to drive to Xunantunich. A pleasant drive, we passed green, rolling hills, grazing cattle, horses, and bucolic villages nestled between rolling foothills. Arriving at the site, we drove our rental car directly onto the barge that takes visitors across the Mopan River. After disembarking, it was a short drive up the hill to the parking lot and visitor’s center. You can take a group tour, walk the site, or hire a guide. We chose to hire one of the guides, for $30.

Americans Slash Their Taxes…as Expats Overseas
“Property taxes in Belize are ridiculously low when compared to those in the United States,” says Ann Kuffner, IL Belize Correspondent. “I’ve interviewed a number of expats who own three bedroom houses, on half-acre properties, with a view of the bay in Corozal, and with river views in the Cayo District. None of the expats I’ve interviewed pay more than $50 per year for property taxes in Belize. And those I’ve interviewed who own two-bedroom, two-bath beach front condos on the Cayes, with a Caribbean Sea view, pay less than $300 a year for property taxes.” Tax on property is very low in Belize. Depending on which part of the country your property is in, the rate will be about 1.5% of the assessed valuation. What makes the tax low is that the assessed valuation is usually very little; a consequence of government policy to encourage development. As a result, you can expect to pay less than $500 a year on most houses and condominiums, and in many cases, the annual tax will be under $100. Property taxes are assessed by the Belize government and are due on April 1 of each year.

“Whatcha Gonna Do About It” in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.
Before we set off for a short trip to Nicaragua (some editions about this will follow in the very near future) I sat out on the veranda, the western, lagoon facing, one for a good few mornings with a mug of black coffee – instant and unsweetened – contemplating what I could arrange for Rose’s upcoming birthday. Now I could have taken the very easy and lazy route (something that I’m normally quite adroit at) and said that the Nicaraguan holiday was an early birthday present. But no, I was not going to do that. I contemplated some more. I could have pondered (I’m good at that too) but this matter needed serious thought and attention. Morning after morning I supped my coffee and contemplated. I found myself talking to myself. “Whatcha gonna do about it?” I asked myself (just lately I’ve found that I talk to myself quite a lot). “I really don’t know”, I replied. And then, from nowhere, the inspiration came. A sunset cruise on Seduced By Belize‘s “SEA’S d Day, a 58 feet houseboat equipped with everything one could want for a meander around the lagoon side of Ambergris Caye.

Explore Nearby San Ignacio
Take a short drive across the only drivable suspension bridge in Belize, Hacksaw Bridge, over the Macal River, where a fun town filled with restaurants, bars, shops and a true Belize cultural experience waiting for you. Welcome to San Ignacio! San Ignacio is the beating heart of western Belize. It was founded in 1904 and since then it has become a cultural hub, melting the history of the surrounding local Maya ruins with new influences. It’s definitely one of the most popular tourism destinations in Belize – not just because of its strategic location near Maya sites like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, caves like Barton Creek and Actun Tunichil Muknal, and the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve which is home to the spectacular waterfalls like 1,000 Foot Fall and Big Rock Waterfalls. San Ignacio is also the hub of western Belize’s food scene – with great local restaurants, new farm-to-table fares, and of course, how can you miss the Saturday market! The first first stop of your day trip should be the San Ignacio Market where you will find a unique opportunity to experience true culture and life of Belize. There are farmers, traders and vendors all selling their goods. You’ll also hear a blend of German, English, Spanish, Creole and Maya languages. Don’t forget to pick up some delicious local fruits, veggies, and maybe even local medicinal herbs for muscles sore from too many hiking adventures. Every Saturday, the San Ignacio Market comes alive with tourists and expats browsing the local vendors.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Belize in 2018
As the cold begins to dig in for the long winter season, it's only natural that people start to consider where they can go to escape and get some warm sunshine. At Caves Branch Jungle Lodge, now is the perfect time to plan and book a wonderful 2018 holiday in the tropical warmth of beautiful Belize. A small country on the shores of the Caribbean, Belize has a wide range of exciting activities and things to see and do. To get you inspired, we've put together five of our favorite reasons why you should come visit Mother Nature's Best-kept Secret (Belize!):

Belize Traditional Healing: Natural Remedies From The Wild
Medicine, as we know it today, is a pretty recent feat of modern chemical engineering. There are pills to make you lose weight, kill sickness inducing bacteria, stop your watery eyes and sneezing from allergies and all manner of imaginative effects. It’s hard for people born in this generation to even imagine what it must have been like, kids probably think cough syrup and pills have existed from the dawn of time. The truth is, people have been curing their ailments for quite a long time. Sometimes to disastrous side-effects (think Victorians and lead-based makeup), but some, like the Maya of Central America, effectively used what we now term today as “Traditional Healing” to cure themselves of many health problems. The kicker? They did it with jungle plants. A thing that’s still part of Belize Culture to date.

International Sources

New security screening for all U.S. bound flights announced
All incoming flights to the United States will be subject to new security screening procedures before takeoff, including both American citizens and foreigners possibly facing security interviews from airline employees, the U.S. government said Wednesday. “The security measures affect all individuals, international passengers and U.S. citizens, traveling to the United States from a last point of departure international location,” said Lisa Farbstein, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Transportation Security Administration. “These new measures will impact all flights from airports that serve as last points of departure locations to the United States.” The new rules include “heightened screening of personal electronic devices” and stricter security procedures around planes and in airport terminals, Farbstein said. She did not elaborate.

Belize-set drama 'Inheritance' is long on family dysfunction, short on substance
There’s not enough “there” there in the melodrama “Inheritance,” a brief, elliptical journey into catharsis and reconciliation. Laura E. Davis and Jessica Kaye, who co-wrote and directed, compress a lifetime’s worth of familial puzzle pieces into a few choppy days of angst and dubious behavior that never quite gels, despite being occasionally intriguing. Upon returning to her childhood home of Belize, the unstable Mara (Kaye) discovers that her estranged father, a respected doctor, has died suddenly. Her dad’s longtime housekeeper, Grace (Myrna Manzanares), and Grace’s daughter, Linda (Shamira Gill-Card), try to support Mara but she’s too overwhelmed, even with the helpful presence of recovering-addict boyfriend Aaron (Daniel Ahearn). Enter Mara’s edgy brother, Ben (Mark Webber), who apparently remained in Belize, as did their father, after Mara returned to the U.S. as an adult. Ben’s snarky anger toward Mara gives way to a strange, semi-nude, swimming hole incident that raises the red flag of sibling dysfunction.

Videos

Turismo em Belize 1, 5min.

Turismo em Belize 2, 5min.

Turismo em Belize 3, 5min.

Belize - Dive Trip 2017, 2.5min. Trip to San Pedro, Belize. Dove the Lighthouse Atoll including the Blue Hole, Aquarium and the Half Moon Key.

Belize Travel Vlog in 360 | Laura Lee,3 min.

Main Plaza at Altun Ha, Belize (2009), 1min.

DECRIMINALIZATION OF MARIJUANA DRAWS HEATED DEBATE AT SENATE MEETING, 10min. The proposed decriminalisation of marijuana legislation went before the Senate yesterday, attracting heavy discussion and debate. Lines were drawn by Senators based on scientific, religious and moral positions and it all made for interesting news. Here are some of the highlights and surprise declarations by some of the Senators The bill did pass at the end of the debate and will now be sent to the Governor General for assent, marking the start of a new policy on the limited use of marijuana by the Government.

Talk Ah Di Town October 26, 2017, 25min.

Saw this huge Caterpillar crossing the street, so I just make sure it made it cross., 1min.

Osprey feeding, 2min. Whatever it takes to survive in the wild

Belize 2017, 5min.

X' Tan Ha Resort on Ambergris Caye, Belize, 4min. This beach front resort has pristine beaches and a go slow attitude that is great for those looking to get away from it all and truly relax.

LSCS Senior Class 2017 Missions Skit in Belize, 4min. The team performing their drama during service at LifeNet. Not even technical difficulties can slow them down.

Caye Caulker - Belize, 2min. Um dia em Caye Caulker - Brasileiros em Belize.

Flooding in Belize City leads to school closures, 1.5min.

Belize Tech Expo 2017, 14min. The Belize Tech Expo was held on September 27th and 28th at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza where local and international vendors exhibited their latest products, services and solutions.

October 26, 2017

President of Mexico Enrique Peña Nieto arrives at the Radisson Fort George Hotel in Belize City for a Bilateral Meeting with the Prime Minister of Belize Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow.

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, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Prime Minister of Belize Meets with the President of Mexico
Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto arrived today, October 25, to participate in the IV CARICOM Mexico Summit. On hand to receive him was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Wilfred Elrington. Though this is President Peña Nieto’s first visit to Belize, he emphasized that the visit is not merely protocol but reflects longstanding relations that is evidence by the substantive cooperation and bilateral engagement. Peña Nieto met with Prime Minister Barrow in a private bilateral meeting in which both Heads reviewed the state of play of the longstanding and friendly bilateral relations between Belize and Mexico, as well as cooperation in areas of mutual interest at the global level.

The Belize Mission Dental Project returns to Ambergris Caye
This is Dorman’s 10th year of coming to Belize with the on-going Mission Project. “When we leave next week, planning will begin for next year’s visit,” said Dorman. “We are happy to be here. During the past years, we have made a lot of friends, and we all really look forward to this time of the year.” Most of the team members have been taking part in the initiative for several years, but every year, new members join the team after finding out about the Mission through word of mouth or through dental professional magazine advertisements. It is estimated that Belize Mission Project costs the US volunteers more than $1 million US dollars for the two weeks they are away from their place of work, as well as their cost of staying and traveling to Belize.

Copa San Pedro Continues
During the seventh week of the Copa San Pedro 2017 Football tournament, nine games took place at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town. The first two were played on Thursday, October 19th. At 7PM, Sandy Point faced Victoria House, with a solid 10-1 win for Sandy Point. At 9PM, Terror Squad won 4-1 over the G. Strikers. The following day, Jokers F.C faced United F.C, with a match that ended in a 2-2 draw. The second match took place at 9PM with Martha’s Ice dominating 7-1 over G. Striker’s. Copa San Pedro continues this upcoming weekend with six more games. On Thursday, October 26th, Jokers F.C face Sandy Point at 7PM, followed by Terror Squad against Victoria House Jr. On Friday, October 27th, Boca Bombers face United F.C at 7PM, and at 9PM Legends F.C take on Martha’s Ice. The last two games of the week are scheduled for Sunday, October 29th, starting at 5PM, with Boca Bombers versus Sandy Point, and at 7PM, San Mateo F.C faces Assassins F.C. All islanders are invited to come out and support their favorite team this weekend. Food and refreshments will be on sale during the games.

Ambergris Caye’s Eye Clinic hosts US ophthalmologists
Island residents, including students from various schools, benefited from the eye services of a team of ophthalmologists from Stanford University in California, USA. The week-long eye clinic started on Monday, October 23rd, and offered complete eye examinations that not only informed patients about their need for glasses but also detected any major eye diseases. The service, which is free of cost, is intended to take place every two months and is being done through the efforts of Belizekids.org, Canary Cove, Stanford University in California USA, the San Pedro Lions Club, and the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired (BCVI). The free clinic is located at the Lions Den on Barrier Reef Drive and was inaugurated in May of this year. The clinic is equipped with all necessary machines in order to provide an array of services. According to Consi Nuñez from Belizekids.org, the response from the public has been very positive and people are taking advantage of the free service. She said the ophthalmologists are able to diagnose eye diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration among others.

Ambergris Today

BTB Holds Belize Tourism Industry Conference
On Friday, October 20, 2017,The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) held its Annual Tourism Industry Conference under the theme “Sustainable Tourism and its Impact on the Belize Market” at the Ramada Princess Hotel &Casino.; Marketing & Public Relations Manager, Jocelle Stephen, says that the event is important for stakeholders to meet with the BTB to share trending topics in the industry. International guest speakers stressed in their talks about sustainable tourism and culinary tourism, the two main topics of the conference.

Sir Barry Bowen Immortalized
The Barry Bowen statute was unveiled on Thursday, October 19, 2017, at the municipal airstrip in Belize City which also carries his name. Eleven months ago, renovation to the airport were completed in November 2016 when it was renamed the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport. Today Sir Barry Bowen stands immortalized with a statue of his image at the entrance of the municipal airport in. Sir Barry was a pioneering captain of industry who was known for his love of flying. Bowen would use that airstrip to fly his plane to San Pedro and back to the Belize City almost on a daily basis for business and pleasure. He was knighted for touching the lives of many in the country as his businesses in Belize extended to many sectors.

Misc Belizean Sources

September 2017 External Trade & Consumer Price Index
September 2017: During the month of September 2017, Belize’s imported goods were valued at $144.5 million, down by 7.2 percent or $11.3 million from the $155.8 million imported in September of 2016. Imports declined across most categories during the month, with notable increases observed only in goods destined for the ‘Commercial Free Zones’ and in the importation of ‘Mineral Fuels and Lubricants’. Heightened purchases of footwear, clothing and perfumes led to an increase of more than one fourth in Commercial Free Zone imports, from $28.7 million in September 2016 to $36.3 million in September 2017
The total value of Belize’s domestic exports for the month of September 2017 was $48.5 million, this was more than twice that recorded for September 2016, which amounted to $21.4 million. A shipment of bulk sugar for the month was the source of the significant jump in export earnings. Since no bulk sugar was exported during the same month of last year, earnings from the country’s top commodity saw a sharp jump, as export returns surged from $0.4 million in September 2016 to $28.5 million in September 2017. In addition, favourable banana sales resulted in a $2 million growth in earnings from that major export, as revenues increased for the month of September from $6 million in 2016 to $8 million in 2017.

Meeting of Foreign Ministers of CARICOM and Mexico
At the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza in Belize City for the 4th CARICOM-Mexico Summit

Suspected Arson on San Pedro
On 24.10.17 about 3:27p.m., 39-year-old Carla Velasquez of 8 miles north of San Pedro reported that on 15.10.17 about 6:00 a.m., she along with her common-law husband Emir Recinos and her children left their house due to flooding. She stated that on 18.10.17 sometime around 12:00p.m., her common-law husband informed her that the house had been totally destroyed by fire. The house and its contents were valued at $15,000. Police are investigating a case of suspected arson.

Grandmother and grandchild shot
On 24.10.17 about 6:25 p.m., police visited # 96 New Road where they saw 60-year-old Judith Rocke suffering from a gunshot wound to the right forearm. She stated about 6:23 p.m. she was inside her house along with four adults and four minors when they heard several gunshots. Judith Rocke was injured and her 7-year-old granddaughter Malli Herrera was rushed to the KHMH suffering from gunshot wounds to her lower back and abdomen.

Two 10 minute power outages 5:00 a.m. to 5:10 a.m. & 3:50 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, October 29: entire Orange Walk & Corozal Districts.
BEL to facilitate maintenance works to be conducted by CFE.

Belize Fishing Report, Weeks of Oct. 16th - Oct. 22nd, 2017
Tough weather week with rain and clouds but anglers still managing to land a fair share of bonefish. We entertained a large Orvis group, and everyone had a Grand Time. Good friends are taking home lots of fish stories throughout the week. We are looking forward to the wind blowing these clouds out of here so that we can see again. Come on sun!

Belize at the 2 day CTO Roadshow in the Netherlands

Want to send a letter of support for the offshore moratorium legislation to the members of the National Assembly?
Click this link!

IT'S SHOWTIME WITH BELIZE CHAPLAIN SERVICES! Your Invitation To A Concert Of Show Tunes And Jazz
Have a great time and support a great cause! Belize Chaplain Services is a growing interdenominational, interfaith, country wide movement which provides spiritual and practical comfort to roots Belizeans in times of trouble, especially in hospitals. We also visit old peoples' homes and prisons, and work with the National Blood Donor Service to help build the blood bank. We are raising funds to help with providing comforts to patients and visitors in hospitals, as well as training materials for new and existing chaplains. Please support us by buying tickets for this great family concert. At St Ann's Belmopan, 4pm on Sunday 29th October.

Splashers
Join us this week at Crazy Canucks to paint “Witching Hour" from 2pm-4pm! Remember to sign up to reserve your seat for Thursday October 26th.

The Real Coconut helps create a sustainable economy in Belize with the launch of US snack line
The Coconut Industry can prove very economic for Belize. One company taps into Coconuts from Belize for their new product. After building a successful restaurant in Mexico based in part on the popularity and health benefits of coconut, entrepreneur Daniella Hunter is expanding her mission of promoting digestive well-being and sustainability to the US and Belize with a new line of baked goods and snacks.

CARICOM/Mexico Summit Leasers
Heads of State and Government of the Caribbean Community and President of the United Mexican States H.E. Enrique Pena Nieto at the IV CARICOM/Mexico Summit

Opening Ceremony for the IV CARICOM/Mexico Summit at the Belize Best Western Biltmore Plaza

Prime Minister of Belize Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow’s Address at the Opening of the IV Mexico-CARICOM Summit
Your Excellency Enrique Peña Nieto, President of the United Mexican States, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada and Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, Secretary General of CARICOM. I wish, first, to welcome all of you to Belize. Whether you are a first-time visitor to our shores or have been here before, you will know either by reputation or experience that our tremendous physical attractions and the warm hospitality of our people are very much yours to enjoy. It is a pity that the compressed squeeze of our allotted time, together with the extended nature of our agenda, will not allow any leisurely sampling of Belize’s pleasures. What it will do, though, is to persuade you that opportunities to return in the future must be found, manufactured even, and acted upon with alacrity.

Prime Minister of Belize Meets with the President of Mexico
Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto arrived today, October 25, to participate in the IV CARICOM Mexico Summit. On hand to receive him was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Wilfred Elrington. Though this is President Peña Nieto’s first visit to Belize, he emphasized that the visit is not merely protocol but reflects longstanding relations that are evident by the substantive cooperation and bilateral engagement. President Peña Nieto met with Prime Minister Barrow in a private bilateral meeting in which both Heads reviewed the state of play of the longstanding and friendly bilateral relations between Belize and Mexico, as well as cooperation in areas of mutual interest at the global level.

Looking for coastal data device on Caye Caulker
The CCVC would like to ask the assistance of the community in locating the device below that was erected in the vicinity of the split channel. If anyone has any information on the instruments whereabouts please call 226 0043. This instrument was being used to collect data that is assisting us in carrying out a study of the coastline in Caye Caulker. Thank You.

SMCU Breaks Ground in Benque
Saint Martin's Credit Union broke ground on their new site in Benque. The new branch should be finished in February of next year. "Ground Breaking Ceremony for our Benque branch was held yesterday 18 October, 2017 in Benque Viejo Del Carmen. With this new branch we will bring to all Benqueños and surrounding communities, the same quality brand and service that we are known for. We look forward to welcoming you to our new branch in early February 2018. "

Welcoming Hector Verdugo
Thank you to the Orange Walk Mayor Kevin Bernard, Orange Walk Town Council, Banquitas House of Culture (NICH), Orange Walk's Community Policing Unit, and the students and teachers of Orange Walk for welcoming Hector Verdugo--a former gang member, now Associate Executive Director of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles! He had a wonderful experience with the students and cadets of the Orange Walk District and was impressed by the Orange Walk community's collaboration and dedication to its youths!

Victoria house reopens
Victoria House is pleased to announce that we are now OPEN! Our annual maintenance period was a success, and we are excited to invite our guests back to enjoy the upgraded facilities. Thank you for your patience during this period.

Channel 7

Mexican Prez Pena Nieto In Belize for CARICOM Summit
Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto left the country a short while ago on his presidential jet after his first visit to Belize. He arrived at 10:45 this morning, and left half an hour ago, so his trip It lasted less than eight hours. But the agenda was packed. And the highlite was the fourth CARICOM-Mexico Summit, which was held this afternoon. 7News was there and Jules Vasquez has the story:... Jules Vasquez Reporting: Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto had by far the biggest entourage of officials and security when he swept into the Biltmore Best Western this afternoon. He stopped to give greetings to hotel staff who were hovering in the dining room and then greeted host Prime Minister Dean Barrow upstairs with an "abrazo." Make no mistake, Pena Nieto was the centerpiece of this summit because he's one of the few leaders of a G20 nation willing to sit with CARICOM leaders - building on a relationship established back in 1974.

CARICOM and Mexico Make Agreements
The meeting lasted just under two hours - and when it was done about two hours later, the leaders gave a statement to the press about what was resolved. Here's CARICOM Chairman Mitchell. Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell - PM Grenada, Chairman of CARICOM: "We discussed also how best to increase the resilience of our countries to the force of climate change and committed to strengthen cooperation within the region and our development partners, international organizations and agencies towards enhancing support for greater adaptation and mitigation measures. Cooperation and de-risking are one of the main areas agreed on in this seventh Mexico-CARICOM meeting. The Technical Cooperation Program in the areas of health, statistics and ICT are also included in line with priorities of CARICOM's strategic plan 2015 to 2019. We want to thank you for this excellent meeting that we've had as brothers and sisters in this region."

Another Man Shot In Head In Broad Daylight In Martin's Area
The terrible wave of deadly gun violence continues in the St. Martinis Area Belize City. There has been another broad daylight shooting - and, again, the victim was shot in the head. Somehow though, he is still alive tonight at the KHMH - where he is in the operating theater and doctors are trying to save his life. 28-year-old Burrel Boom resident Cardinal Andrews was shot in the back of the head this evening around 4:00 on Partridge Street at the junction with Patridge Extension. Andrews was reportedly socializing outside a friend's house. It was a panicked and frenzied scene on the street - where bystanders rushed to his aid. They put him inside a police mobile which appeared on the scene almost immediately.

Woman and Grand-daughter Shot Inside Home
And now back to the shooting we told you about last night on New Road. It happened around 6:30 when 60 year old Judith Rocke and three of her grandchildren were watching the news in their living room. They heard gunshots - which were tearing into the house from a shooter who stood on New Road. Rocke and her 7 year old granddaughter was shot. Rocke only received a gunshot to her forearm, while 7 year old Mali Herrera was shot in her back. Rock was treated and released from the hospital and she told us more: Voice of: Judith Rocke - Shooting Victim: "About 6 of us was in the parlor area watching television and about a minute or two after that we just hear gunshot started to fire." Jules Vasquez - Reporter: "Where was your grand-daughter?"

Fire: Homeowner Claims Arson, Fire Dept. Says Not So
This morning around 11:30 a fire devoured a 24 by 30 bungalow house on Tigris Street in Belize City. When the fire started, five people including two minors were inside, but thankfully they all escaped unharmed. The residents of the house were renting it from Darrel Young who is the owner. Young strongly believes that the fire is the product of arson, but after investigating, the fire department has concluded otherwise. We spoke to both Young and the Assistant Fire Chief:... Voice of: Darrel Williams, Owner of House: "As far as I know I think its arson."

"Unlimited" Brutality?
Last night we told you about Bernard Cayetano, known as "Unlimited" the musician who is a part of the musical camp managed by Kenneth Big Tom Flowers. Flowers told us "Unlimited" was arrested when the 21 year old went to pick up items at Big Tom's apartment. He added that police had beaten him and injure his foot. Well, today Cayetano appeared in court on charges brought on by the Constable Bernal Valdez. Valdez alleged that when they went to search "Big Tom's" house on 4242 Croton Lane, Cayetano was there and he reportedly assaulted the officers, obstructed them, and resisted arrest.

Alex Underwood On Remand
A well known gang affiliated figure Alex Underwood, is in jail tonight, remanded for a single round of ammunition. 28 year old Underwood, who is linked to the Southside Gangsters was arrested along with his younger brother 24 year old Austin Underwood for a single round of 5.54 ammunition. Police claim they found it in his yard in the Yabra area - his people insist police planted it - and that Austin Underwood was not even there at the time. They were arraigned yesterday on a single charge of kept prohibited ammunition. Both pleaded not guilty but due to the nature of the offenses, they were remanded to prison. They can only apply for Supreme Court bail.

Church Senator Refuses to Support Decriminalization of Marijuana
TODAY, the Senate met in Belmopan to consider some of the bills taken to the House last week Friday. A number of important pieces of legislation were debated, but we start first with the debate over the 2017 Amendment Bill for the Misuse of Drugs Act. That's the bill that was first tabled in August and which legally allows for recreational use of marijuana in quantities of 10 grams or less. Very much like the lower House, the Bill received bi-partisan support, but there were a wide range of views on marijuana decriminalization We have excerpts of the debate, starting with Church Senator Ashley Rocke's refusal to support the amendment. Here's how that went:

Some Senators Says Haulover Loan Is Shady
Another piece of legislation that inspired fiery debate was a loan motion for a new Haulover Bridge. The Government intends to borrow 24 million Belize dollars from the Opec Fund. Now in the house no one got too uptight about it, but, today the Opposition and the Social partners pounced on the motion. They say that Government passed a 60-million-dollar loan motion in 2014 which was supposed to have covered the cost of the bridge. So they questioned why the Government needed to borrow more money now to separately cover the cost of the new bridge.

Senate Battles Over Temporary Residency
And finally from the Senate tonight, we take you to the debate over the Immigration Amendment Bill of 2017. In this amendment, the Government intends to create a new class of persons with legal immigration status in Belize. It's called "temporary residency", which is different from permanent residency. It seeks to assist international investors who do business in Belize, but are heavily burdened by the immigration procedures. Here's the Senate debate on that amendment: Valerie Woods - Opposition Senator: "I am at a loss having reviewed the immigration act and the amendments made, I believe it was 2014, 2015 and 2016, as to what is the urgency of now creating temporary residence for investors. Why would we tinker with this now? One would have to assume unless told otherwise and presented with data, that it is some urgency. How much faster, because it is not clear in this at all, how much faster will the process be for temporary residencies to be granted than the current regular permanent residence process?"

When Will Belize Hold Its ICJ Referendum?
As we reported last week, Guatemala will hold its referendum on the ICJ on March 18, 2018. That date is now written in stone in that country after it was approved by the Guatemalan Congress last week. But, what about Belize, when will our referendum be held - or might a "no" vote in Guatemala put the whole thing in jeopardy? That's what we asked the Foreign Affairs CEO today:... Pat Andrews, CEO - Foreign Affairs: "We will move along the lines of first completing our municipal elections and then it is slated that maybe sometime around May/June the re-registration process can start. The review of the electoral process can start and then we will be looking at that taking us up to maybe the end of 2018. So late 2018, early 2019."

Floodwaters Recede in Cayo - Could Be Coming To Belize
The floodwaters in the Cayo District are receding very slowly - and it will be some days before the temporary bridge and the Iguana Creek Bridge are re-opened. That is, assuming no more heavy waters come down from Peten. The waters at the three dams in the Cayo District are also reported to be receding. Now, the attention has turned to the Belize District is bracing for water coming down from the west. NEMO today held meetings with village chairmen and is urging livestock owners in the River Valley to be prepared for possible floodwaters coming down.

World Youth Conference Coming To Belize
The World Youth Conference is held annually in different countries - and this year, it is coming to Belize. The aim of the conference is to bring together young people between the ages of 19 and 35 together to be inspired by not just speakers but also each other. This is a very big undertaking for Belize as panelists and participants from all over will be coming to Belize City. Hosting such an event comes with a hefty fee and thankfully Belize got some much-needed help from the Taiwanese government. 7News was there for the handing over and got some more insight on the upcoming conference from an organizer and Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber.

Channel 5

Mexico and CARICOM Meet in Belize
Belize today played host to the fourth gathering of the heads of government of the Caribbean and Mexico. Mexico is one of the most populous nations surpassing by far the [...]

CARICOM Chair Announces Increased Contribution for Disaster Management
The CARICOM/Mexico Summit concluded just after five o’clock this evening at the Best Western Hotel and it was immediately followed by a press conference led by Doctor Keith Mitchell, Prime [...]

Plans for Increase in Trade and Cooperation
Among the other areas of focus is an aim to bolster trade and investment between CARICOM and Mexico, through investment promotion agencies. Likewise, the announcement of a high-level private/public sector [...]

Mexico Pledges More Support for Hurricane-Hit Islands
President Enrique Peña Nieto aside from reaffirming Mexico’s commitment to assisting the hurricane-affected island nations of the Caribbean also spoke about the need for improving bilateral cooperation in other areas [...]

Antigua and Barbuda Fights On after Hurricane Hits
In mid-September of this year, the island country of Barbuda was deemed uninhabitable after category-five hurricane Irma flattened the island. Thousands were displaced and transferred to the twin island of [...]

Antigua Minister Says Rebuilding Will Cost Hundreds of Millions
But even as Barbuda is in the early stages of rebuilding, the next hurricane season starts in seven months. According to Minister Greene, the greatest challenge facing the island is [...]

Grandmother and Granddaughter Shot on New Road
Just before news time on Tuesday night shots rang out on New Road. As sixty-year-old Judith Rocke and her grandchildren sat inside their house to watch the television evening news, [...]

Evening Shooting Leaves Boom Resident Critical in Hospital
There is another shooting to report as violence continues to grip the south side of Belize City. Twenty-eight-year-old Cardinal Andrews is said to be in critical condition after he was [...]

“Unlimited” Charged for Resisting Police over ‘Big Tom’
Up and coming local artist Unlimited was slapped with three charges today when he appeared in court. Unlimited, whose real name is Bernard Cayetano, was charged with obstruction, resisting arrest [...]

Clarification on Policeman Accused in Video
On Tuesday’s newscast, we reported on a question asked of the commissioner of police by a reporter which suggested that the officer referred to in the video posted by Cross [...]

Derisking Still an Issue for Caribbean
The loss of correspondent banking, also known as derisking, was a sticking point for Antiguan Minister of Trade, E.P. Chet Greene. His government has taken the lead for the Caribbean [...]

Antigua Minister Looks for Trade and Infrastructure Help at Summit
Even before the arrival of Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto, the official delegations including heads of states from CARICOM and the respective foreign ministers, met at the Best Western Belize [...]

Senate Debates Haulover Bridge Motion; The Devil is in the Details
The upper chamber of the National Assembly met in regular session today to consider multiple motions and bills, most brought from the House of Representatives after it met last Friday. [...]

Junior Finance Minister Says Design Issue Will Be Settled
In response, Minister of State for Finance, Doctor Carla Barnett, noted that the impact of climate change has forced new thinking in the design and development of infrastructure. She was [...]

Will Youths Be Harmed by Marijuana Ease?
Other bills including amendments to legislation on land, protection of married persons, immigration and temporary residency and BELTRAIDE were also debated, with the International Banking Bill still to come this [...]

A.G. Says Cigarettes, Alcohol More Dangerous than Weed
Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte, among others, tried to make a correlation between use of legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco in public, and the use of marijuana which is [...]

Belize Plans Referendum on I.C.J. after Municipals
On Monday, we reported that the Guatemalan government has decided that the referendum on taking the territorial claim to Belize will be held on March eighteenth 2018. That country is [...]

Fire Claims House on Tigris Street
Around eleven-twenty five this morning a fire broke out inside a house on Tigris Street. Five family members, three adults and two children, were inside the house at the time [...]

Taiwan Donates for World Youth Conference
In less than two weeks over two hundred youths from around the world will gather in Belize for the World Youth Conference. The conference will convene national, regional and international [...]

Forum Tonight on Regional Border Disputes
This evening, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is hosting representatives of several Caribbean countries at a forum at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts here in Belize City. The [...]

CTV3

Impasse Is Over...BPD And Media Mend Fences
And with that internal hurdle considered “done” by Ministry officials, they also addressed the external hurdle that a media boycott on Police affairs had become. The boycott was imposed on October 12, signalling a severe breakdown in communication between the two entities. For the media, access to a free flow of information in particular with issues of high public interest is key. For the Police, it has seemed, the provision of information is subjective to their views. The boycott lasted until today when discussions at a meeting led to an agreement that the Police will not impede information to the public.

Will Former Police Press Officer Be Punished For Speaking Out?
Yesterday the Police high command caved in to the media’s demands for a constant stream of information to be able to keep the public informed. This after an almost two-week media boycott of their events triggered by the Police’s refusal to pass information. What may have led to the Police Department giving in could be statements by Police Inspector Fitzroy Yearwood who called in the Krem WUB programme to lash out at his own Department for castigating him back in August. Yearwood was the media relations officer for the Department until he passed information about a violent incident involving one of the Castro sons. He was transferred from the post right after. In his call to the radio station, Yearwood said he would defend his integrity even at the expense of losing his job. Yesterday Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie was asked what they will be doing about Yearwood’s public statements, and the ComPol said the inspector’s fate lies on an investigation.

Another Suspect Questioned For Robbery At Tans Store
Last week we reported that Orange Walk Police detained one individual for questioning in connection to an armed robbery which occurred on the night of Wednesday October 18th in the Black Water Creek area of Trial Farm Village. But while there was no evidence for charges to be levied upon the said individual, he was later released from police custody. However, tonight we can report that authorities have detained a second person who they believe is associated with the crime.

Price Of Goods Continue To Spike
The Statistical Institute of Belize issued its most recent figures on consumer prices and external trade for Belize throughout the month of September. We begin by taking a look at the statistics for Consumer Price Index (CPI) which illustrates that in comparison to September of last year there was an increase of 0.7 percent in the average cost of goods and services regularly purchased by households this year. The All-Items CPI for September 2017 stood at 104.4 compared to August of 2016 which stood at 103.7. (CPI fig 1) For the first nine months of 2017, an inflation rate of 1.2 percent was recorded. The transport category saw an increase of 6.6 percent, sighting the sector as the major contributing factor in the overall rise in consumer prices for the month of August.

Senators Raise Questions On $12M Loan For Haulover Bridge
Last Friday the Government majority in the House of Representatives rushed through a bill for a U.S. $12m loan from the OPEC Fund as partial financing for the replacement of the Haulover Bridge at the entrance to Belize City. When the Opposition Leader John Briceno requested more time to study the loan motion, the Prime Minister called him names and did not support the request. There was little further explanation about the project, but today there was much discussion before the Senate as to the need for the loan. The Business and Opposition Senators raised questions about the loan, since back in they had already deliberated on a loan for the bridge back in 2014.

Regular Fuel Drops By 16 Cents...Kerosene Increases
Over the past months Belizeans have been paying record high prices for fuel while other Central American countries are experiencing considerable drops providing relief to drivers. Here in Belize while the Prime Minister has promised to reduce the cost per gallon of fuel it seems that won’t happen anytime soon or if it does it won’t be a drastic drop which is exactly what Belizeans are clamouring for.

Scrap Stamping Of Passport At Northern Border, Says Opposition Leader
During Friday’s House of Representatives several bills were dealt with. One was an amendment to the Immigration Act in respect to temporary residency. The bill seeks to add the C.E.O. in the Ministry of Labor to the Visa Vetting Committee and clarify the role of the C.E.O. in the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Opposition however, raised some serious questions in regard to the bill especially considering the ongoing Senate inquiry. And while on the topic of the Immigration Amendment Bill - Opposition Leader John Briceno also introduced the notion of: no more checking in at the border when going to Mexico, an idea bought forward some time ago by Orange Walk residents who are concerned over the necessity of having Belizeans check in at the border during every exit.

LOVE FM

Regular Gas decreased while Kerosene increased
Today, Regular gasoline decreased from by sixteen cents putting the new price at ten dollars and thirteen cents per gallon. The price for Premium gasoline remains the same at eleven dollars and ninety two cents. There was also no change in the price for Diesel which remains at nine dollars and sixty three cents per […]

Guatemala has gone ahead of Belize by setting a date for its Referendum
The Guatemalan Congress has set March 18 2018 as the day more than seven million Guatemalan are expected participate in the Belize/Guatemala referendum. Belize has yet to officially set a date but according to the CEO in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Patrick Andrews, it will more likely be at the end of 2018. Patrick […]

Senate approves OPEC Loan
Today, the loan for twelve million US dollars from the OPEC Fund for International Development was passed in the Senate. That loan is for the replacement of the Haulover Bridge and will subsidize part, or sixty-eight percent of the overall cost of the project. The terms allow government a five-year grace period and fifteen years […]

Cayetano: I was Beat Up and Threatened by Police
Twenty-one year old Musician and businessman Bernard Cayetano aka “Unlimited”, was holding his abdomen as if he was in great pain, when he appeared today before the Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser for three charges to be read to him. Cayetano was charged with obstructing a police officer, assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. He […]

Police Sensitizing the Public to Marijuana Bill
During a press briefing yesterday, the Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie confirmed that the escalation of crime in Southside Belize City is a result of gangs feuding over territory and drugs, one of which is marijuana. With the passage of the amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act, which decriminalizes up to ten grams of […]

Taiwan donates $25K towards World Youth Conference
The World Youth Conference will be held next month in Belize and will be hosted by the Department of Youth Services. Today, Taiwanese Ambassador, Charles Liu handed over $25,000 to help with the expenses that will be incurred as a result of hosting the event in Belize. Here is what Ambassador Liu had to say […]

Torrential Rains disrupt Classes in the Southern District
Recent rains caused flooding across the country, including Dangriga, where residents have to deal with inundated streets. Harry Arzu tells us more. Harry Arzu “The torrential rains that also descended over the Stann Creek District including Dangriga over the past few days have disrupted regular classes in some rural communities and in this municipality. Today […]

Belizean Author Launches Book
Yesterday Belizean Author Leodegario Obando launched his book entitled, “”El Puente/The Bridge”. The ceremony was held at the Santa Elena House of Culture and was facilitated by the National Institute of Culture and History through the Museum of Belize. Fem Cruz caught up with Obando this morning. Fem Cruz “Yesterday morning at the House of […]

Insurance: “Enriching Lives Through Financial Freedom”
This week is Insurance Week and the insurance companies will be hosting a week of activities under the theme “Enriching Lives Through Financial Freedom”. Derick Perera, the Public Relations Officer of the Belize Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (BELAIFA), spoke to Love News about this week’s activities. Derick Perera “We have a week of […]

“Walk For a Green Belize”
On October 14, the Department of Environment, the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority and the Belize Audubon Society partnered to conduct the “Walk for a Green Belize” campaign. Volunteers cleaned both sides of the George Price Highway from Belize City to the town of Benque Viejo del Carmen. About 985 bags of garbage were collected, […]

Criss Dih Nitro alleges state sanctioned hit on ‘Big Tom’
The Belize Police Department is in possession of a disturbing video posted on Facebook last night. The video is from Belizean artist, Criss Dih Nitro and he says that a hit has been placed on Kenneth ‘Big Tom’ Flowers. In his four minutes video, Criss Dih Nitro, alleges that a state sanctioned hit has been […]

Amandala

POVERTY ALLEVIATION OR GENTRIFICATION?
Every now and then, we have to remind our readers, in fact we have to enlighten the younger ones actually, how this Kremandala institution came to be, with the newspaper Amandala in the first instance in August of 1969. The reason we have to rehash the history is so that our readers, at home and abroad, can understand why we take the positions that we do. We take the positions that we do because we owe a debt of gratitude to roots Belizeans from 48 years ago who enabled the establishment of this institution and then defended us in the streets. Older Belizeans who are hard core supporters of the People’s United Party (PUP) and the United Democratic Party (UDP) never want to be reminded of the Kremandala history. In the case of PUP aficionados, they do not want to be reminded that the founders of this newspaper were leaders of an organization which defeated the previously undefeated PUP in the streets of Belize City in 1972. And, in the case of the UDP traditionalists, they don’t want to hear anything about the aforesaid organization — the United Black Association for Development (UBAD), because UBAD was founded four and a half years before the UDP was born in September of 1973, and because the record shows that it was to UBAD that the Hon. Philip Goldson, the national hero, turned in late 1971 when he felt surrounded and threatened by those who would establish the UDP two years later and remove him from Opposition leadership.

Breaking Belize News

Belizean media pioneer and hotelier featured in Forbes
Stewart Krohn, founder of Great Belize Productions and Channel 5, tourism stakeholder and hotelier; was […]

Gunshot victim on life support
Police have issued an official report on the man who was shot to his head […]

Man shot in the head on Partridge Street
A man was just gunned down in front of #3 Partridge Street in Belize City. […]

Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto extends generous offer to PM Barrow and Belize
Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto extends generous offer to PM Barrow and Belize. Ahead of the IV […]

Senators clash on Marijuana Decriminalization
The Misuse of Drug Amendment Bill was presented to the Senate today. Senator Aldo Salazar supported […]

Business and opposition senators question urgency for Immigration Amendment Bill
At today’s Senate Meeting, the Immigration Amendment Bill 2017 was introduced. Business Senator, Mark Lizarraga […]

Business and Opposition Senators demand more info on $12 Million Haulover loan
At today’s Senate meeting several bills were tabled, including the Land Tax Amendment Bill 2017, […]

Belizean boy gets life-saving heart surgery thanks to Rotary
A 13-month-old baby boy from Belize diagnosed as having a hole in his heart successfully […]

Fire in San Pedro!
A home burnt to the ground sometime between October 15th and the 18th, however, the owners […]

Burglary in San Pedro
A San Pedro resident is claiming that his home was burglarized sometime in the month […]

Police Department will punish Inspector Fitzroy Yearwood
Police Inspector, Fitzroy Yearwood, will pay for his recent public outburst in the media regarding […]

Cold front passing over Belize
The National Meteorological Service is reporting that a cold front is passing over the country […]

Mexican President, Enrique Pena Nieto, commends Belize
Mexican President, Enrique Pena Nieto, has issued a statement regarding his visit to Belize for his […]

Walk for a Green Belize, a success
In commemoration of World Environment Day 2017, the Department of the Environment (DOE), the Belize […]

BTIA congratulates Government for Maritime Zone Moratorium
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) issued a release yesterday stating that it congratulates the […]

Blogs

Suggestions for Ambergris Activities on a Rainy Day
As you can imagine, I’ve been getting this question quite a bit over the last week. “What is there to do in San Pedro on a rainy day?” Ambergris Caye is a spot that people visit to enjoy the outdoors – the reef, the beach, the sun. Many travel to the mainland to trek among Maya pyramids or to drift through a cave dripping with crystal covered stalagtites. But rain…and EPIC rains (and I never use that word) like we are experiencing now put a damper on most of those activities. Yes, you can still snorkel and dive in the rain…you are wet anyway, right? But some prefer to wait for sunnier weather. I am using these dark times to pump the water out of our yard, carry Elsie to dry land for her daily walks, monitoring the weather satellite services, reading and working.

International Sources

Caribbean States improve ability to prosecute fisheries cases
Twenty border control officers from six Member States of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) completed a three-week training course in Fisheries Prosecution and Interdiction, organized by the Barbados-based Regional Security System (RSS) in collaboration with the CRFM Secretariat, the Government of Barbados and the British Royal Navy’s Fisheries Protection Squadron. The training, held at the Coast Guard Base of the Barbados Defense Force: HMBS Pelican, brought together officers of the Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force Coast Guard, Barbados Coast Guard, Royal Barbados Police Force Marine Unit, Royal Grenada Police Force Marine Unit, Royal Saint Lucia Police Force Marine Unit, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force Coast Guard, and the St. Kitts-Nevis Defense Force Coast Guard. The aim of the course was to heighten the awareness and enhance the skills and competencies of authorized officers who have border security responsibilities for enforcing the laws under the Fisheries Acts, Fisheries Regulations and supporting administrative policies.

How to Open a Hotel in Belize
How does a law school dropout from Detroit end up a hotel partner in Belize? Stewart Krohn, 67, is a modern-day Renaissance man. Before opening Naïa Resort and Spa in Placencia, Belize, Krohn worked as a first mate, a tennis pro, wrote for a magazine, started a magazine, became a television producer, and founded Belize’s first local TV station—sometimes doing two jobs simultaneously. Leaving Michigan for Belize. “I started law school at University of Michigan in 1972. When I got halfway through my studies, I decided to reward myself with a holiday. I had previously run into a fellow at the tennis club where I worked who owned a resort in Belize. He had a 50-foot sailboat. He said if I could find my way down there, the rest of the vacation would be on him. At this point in December 1973, the snow was three feet deep outside my window. I couldn’t call him, so I sent a cable, bought a ticket to go to Belize, and went out sailing for a week with this guy. When we reached the harbor after a week at sea—fabulous diving, fishing, the whole bit—he said his first mate was leaving, and would I like the job? For some reason I said yes, thinking this would be a one-semester leave of absence. One semester turned into a 44-year leave of absence.

CALL FOR APPLICATION!!! Apply for British Army Ongoing Recruitment for Commonwealth Countries, 2018 Apply Now
The Benefits of Belonging to the British Army. A sense of belonging may sound like a small thing. Yet it fuels you as much as food and water because it doesn’t just feed your body, it feeds your mind and soul. The stronger the sense of belonging – the stronger you become. A career with us offers you challenge and adventure that you simply can’t find in any other job. Add in competitive pay and plenty of travel – in fact you’ll be surprised at just how good the benefits are: Earn over £18,488 after training, 38 days paid leave, subsidized food and accommodation, free gym and sports facilities, free dental and medical care, free pension, qualifications, apprenticeships and world class training. You may also qualify for a bursary or extra allowances.

Belize hosts pivotal CARICOM-Mexico summit
The CARICOM-Mexico summit on Wednesday in Belize is seen as a pivotal opportunity for the Caribbean Community to strengthen cooperation with Mexico, one of the world’s largest integrated economies. The summit brings together CARICOM heads of government and their foreign ministers, and the president of Mexico and his foreign minister. It is co-chaired by CARICOM chairman, Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell of Grenada and president of Mexico Enrique Peña Nieto. They will be joined in addressing the opening ceremony by CARICOM secretary-general Irwin LaRocque, and the prime minister of Belize, Dean Barrow.

Videos

Scuba Diving off Ambergris Caya, Belize 2017,4 min.

Exploring Xunantunich - Belize’s Maya Archaeological Gem, 2.5min. The Cayo District in western Belize, known as the Mundo Maya, the center of the Maya World, is must see for anyone interested in Maya archaeology and culture. Nestled in the Cayo, Xunantunich is a prime example of this. Xunantunich meaning "Stone Woman" in Yucatec Maya language, extends over a square mile, including six plazas, with more than 26 temples. Given its exquisite beauty, and containing the second tallest structure in the country, it is no wonder it is one of the most popular Maya sites in Belize.

Trush feeding under Tambran Tree, 1/2min. Watch him clear the leaves

Hummingbirds grabbing a bite between downpours, 1min.

City and Most of Belize under Deluge from Rains, 5.5min. In typical October style, the rains descended over the city and the western part of the country. Today, several schools sent students home and motorists and pedestrians had to navigate their way through streets with several inches of water. The downpour during this time is not unusual for October, but News Five’s Andrea Polanco spoke with the met service to find out what is causing these rains and how much more of it we can expect in the coming days. Here’s that story.

SENATORS RAISE QUESTIONS ON 12 MILLION DOLLARS LOAN FOR HAULOVER BRIDGE., 8.5min. Last Friday the Government majority in the House of Representatives rushed through a bill for a U.S. $12m loan from the OPEC Fund as partial financing for the replacement of the Haulover Bridge at the entrance to Belize City. When the Opposition Leader John Briceno requested more time to study the loan motion, the Prime Minister called him names and did not support the request. There was little further explanation about the project, but today there was much discussion before the Senate as to the need for the loan. The Business and Opposition Senators raised questions about the loan, since back in they had already deliberated on a loan for the bridge back in 2014.There was concern raised about the design of the bridge which is intended to have three lanes. According to Senator Courtenay, they consulted with Ministry of Works Engineers and they also expressed concerns.

The Senate also discussed a new Immigration status proposed by the Government, 58min. The Senate also discussed a new Immigration status proposed by the Government and approved despite concerns raised by the Opposition. The program is called Temporary Residency and amidst the many Immigration system weaknesses and loopholes exposed through the Senate Select Committee hearing, one would wonder why such an initiative was being pursued at this time. That’s what some Senators asked.

BELIZE MISSION PROJECT PROVIDES FREE HEALTH CARE TO COROZALENOS, 6min. The annual Belize Mission Project, an initiative that sees medical professionals from the United States coming to Belize with the support of local entities to provide medical care to Belizeans, was held over the past three days. Since Monday the visiting medical team set up shop at various centers in the Corozal District to provide much needed medical assistance

Belizean Instagram Sensation/Model Joyjah featured on a Seventeen Magazine styling tips video, 3min. These ways to style your curls are GENIUS

IV CARICOM/Mexico Summit, 30min.

Opening Ceremony: 4th CARICOM-Mexico Summit @ the Best Western Biltmore Plaza in Belize, Central America., 35min.

MEXICAN PRESIDENT’s STATEMENT AT THE FOURTH CARICOM MEXICO SUMMIT, 6min.

Help a soul day Belize, 3min. Have an inside look at what we do at PHS. Want to help? Visit PHS website for more info. http://www.placenciahumanesociety.org

Project Mangrove: Een stukje Belize in Burgers' Zoo Aflevering 4, 25min. Published on Oct 26, 2017 In aflevering 3 van de documentaire, over onze Mangrove, beginnen we met een terugblik op de vorige afleveringen. We zagen hoe de Aziatische meerval een nieuw plekje kreeg in ons park en hoe de panoramaruit geplaatst werd bij het zeekoeienbassin. In deze aflevering komt het einde van de bouw in zicht. De puntjes worden op de 'i' gezet. De druk neemt toe bij de betrokkenen. Er wordt teruggeblikt op de ervaring van Stef in Belize.

The Reef Protectors - Belize, 3.5min. About Belize Audubon Society's junior ranger program for youth from fishing communities associated with Half Moon Caye and Blue Hole Natural Monuments

Belize fisher visit to PN Arrecifes de Xcalak, 5min. Fishers associated with Half Moon Caye and Blue Hole Natural Monuments and South Water Caye Marine Reserve in Belize travel to Mexico to share with their counterparts about sustainable fishing and the role of marine protected areas

Two days in Belize, 8min.

BELIZEAN ISLAMIC SOCIAL WORKER SAEED RASOOL & 1970S SOCIAL ACTIVISM IN BELIZE!, 31min. Belizean Muslim Saeed Rasool's journey to establish a solid foundation for himself and his family came through his embracing of Islam in Belize in the 1970s, and taking that serious level of discipline as a Belizean immigrant to the United States into the U.S. arm forces and later as a psychiatric social worker.

Ambergris Caye, Belize, 2017 Night Dive, 3.5min.

San Pedro, Belize 2017, 4min. Me and my fiance in Belize

October 25, 2017