Recent Belize News
10/21/2019 to 10/31/2019
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Today's Belize News

October 31, 2019

I will be unable to do the news on Friday morning, Nov. 1, I will return on Saturday, Nov. 2. HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!


FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


Ambergris Today

Stand Strong
- By Seleni Perez - This is a message to remind you that you are not alone. In days that you sit lonely on a corner hoping someone would understand your sorrow or nights where you cry wishing you could scream so loud so that everyone can feel your pain. In times where no one seems to get you and all you can think of is the misery of life and your heart can’t take anymore damage; you are not alone.

Various Belizean Sources

mzz

September 2019 Merchandise Trade & Consumer Price Index
These are the Statistical Institute of Belize's most recent statistics, published today Wednesday, October 30th, 2019. The latest results from the Statistical Institute of Belize, monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) survey show that for the month of September 2019, on average, Belizean households saw the cost of regularly purchased goods and services almost unchanged from the same mo. one year ago, going down by a marginal 0.1 percent when compared to September 2018. During the month of September 2019, Belize’s imported goods were valued at $141.9 million, down by a marginal 0.6 percent or $0.9 million from the $142.8 million imported in September of 2018. Total domestic exports for September 2019 amounted to just over $35 million, down 7 percent or $2.6 million from the $37.7 million recorded for September of 2018.

BELIZE FISHING REPORT: OCTOBER 20, 2019 THROUGH OCTOBER 27, 2019
Overall, it was a great week on the water. Lots of opportunities and plenty of fish brought to hand for our anglers. The weather this month has been great. We did have a storm that passed early in the week but moved through quickly, opening back up to sunny skies and lighter winds. All anglers enjoyed hooking and landing bonefish. Some had record number days beating their previous top bonefish days.

Mrs Amaris Leal elected President of the Young Diplomats in London
Special congratulations to our very own Belize diplomat, Mrs Amaris Leal, on being elected President of the Young Diplomats in London. Mrs. Leal takes over from outgoing President, Mr Wilfred Adderley II, from our sister nation of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. She is the first woman diplomat to assume this office and is also the first President from Central America. The Belize High Commission extends its well wishes to the Executive Committee for the 2019/2020 term!

Reunion of Maya Traditional Knowledge Holders and Academics
On the 25th of October, FCD attended a reunion of Maya Traditional Knowledge Holders and Academics at the invitation of the Maya Leaders Alliance and Toledo Alcaldes Association in Toledo. FCD’s presentation centred on interventions used to protect the forest resources.

Youth RISE Project Open Day
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation through its Youth Resilience and Inclusive Social Empowerment (RISE) Project is hosting an Open Day on Thursday, October 31, 2019, at the BTL Princess Royal Park in Dangriga Town from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The partner agencies will be highlighting outcomes of the various programs implemented through the project since 2017. Approximately 1,710 children and youth from Dangriga Town have benefitted from the various programs being implemented under the Youth RISE Project since its launch in April 2017.

Paint N Splash
See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint “The Sanderson Sisters”.

Maya Hill Royals vs. Guardians
Saturday at 2pm, MCC Grounds.

Boo at the Zoo 2019
The Belize Zoo had another great Boo at the Zoo, and they got lost of fun pictures The Sixth Edition of Boo At The Zoo at the Best Little Zoo In The World, The Belize Zoo"

Arenal Bi-national exchange
A bi-national exchange with 52 children from Arenal Belize and Arenal Guatemala was conducted aimed at building awareness about water conservation. This marks one of two exchange visits supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives; coordinated by the FCD Environmental Youth Group and Todos Por Un Mundo Verde.

Roni Martinez Birding Photos
And now you can go in and view the photos loaded up. I warn you, many are really just record shots, but others are a true frame to enjoy.

Miss Costa Maya 2019 competing in Miss Panamerican International 2019
Hi everyone! Our current Miss Costa Maya 2019, Miss Lisbeth Valverde, from Costa Rica, is competing in another pageant, Miss Panamerican International 2019, taking place in Guadalajara, Mexico. Apart from the main title, there is a category for Miss Internet, help her win this title and show her your support by liking the picture on the Miss Panamerican International. (Click the picture, when it opens, click the like button).

Legend of the Huay Chivo
Legend has it that in a town there was a child who from a very young age had the gift of knowing all the properties of plants, and with his powers, he could heal people. Growing up, he became the village sorcerer , but one day he fell in love with a girl, she ignored him, because she was afraid of him. The young woman lived with her parents and helped take care of her goats , with whom she was very happy, because she played and had fun with them.

Learning CPR and First Aid will be more fun with our new resident DAN Instructors
Thanks to Course Director, Keila Kasai, from Scuba Revolution; the Belize Chamber Project and DAN World.

Channel 7

Fatal RTA Claims The Man Called "Rottweilla"
One man was killed in a fatal accident last night near Ontario Village on the George Price Highway. The victim is 41 year old Nelson Ayuso - a man who was well known in political and public circles - as a solider of the UDP and a television commercial celebrity of sorts. Cherisse Halsall has the story of the short life of the man known as "Rotweilla": Around 10:20 last night at mile 59 on the George Price Highway Imer Hernandez lost control of his blue GMC Sierra pickup on loose gravel and hit a culvert. Hernandez's passenger Nelson Ayuso popularly known as Rottweiler died on the spot.

Remembering "Rottweilla"ť As Dad
This evening in Orange Walk Nelson Ayuso's daughter told CTV-3 about her father: Reporter: "Can you recall what your last conversation was like?" Voice of: Kayla Ayuso, Daughter: "We were talking about our favorite movies and just reminiscing about old times when he would sing like he love tp do and things like that. He wasn't shy to the camera. Everyone knew him from doing commercials to singing to being out there with politics. He was very vocal and he was just a loving person and I can speak for everyone - he was nice, although he has his little ways but everyone does and he was just the most loving person. I loved him so much and he was a good father."

Toledo Teacher Charged For Carnal Knowledge With Student
22 year old Japheth Chavarria, a teacher from Toledo Community College is on remand at the Hattieville Prison. He is accused of having sex with a minor who is reportedly a student at the school. The minor who claims to be Chavarria's girlfriend visited the Punta Gorda police station in the company of a social officer to report the encounter. A medical examination was conducted on the minor and she was certified to have been harmed.

Ministry of Health Says Don't Drink That Brown Water
On Monday, Belize Water Services Limited held a press conference to address the issue of discolored water that's coming out of some household and office pipes in Belize City. The company said that it's the product of iron in the water - which, while unsightly, is harmless. It's the product - BWS says - of iron running off into the Belize River - which is the company's main water source. Despite the build-up caused by the heavy rains in mid-October, BWS said the water is safe to drink, and to bathe and wash with - although it could stain white clothes. But today, the Ministry of Health's water inspector said, don't drink the brown water:

Alleged Meatpie Delivery Man Turned Robber Gets Bail
A 23 year old former Dario's Meat Pie delivery man, Joseph Richards, who allegedly led a home invasion to hold up his former employer was today released on Supreme Court bail. He appeared today with his attorney Ronell Gonzalez before Justice Antonette Moore. She agreed to release him on a bail of $8,000 with several conditions. One is that he has to make his court appearances, two is that he is to report to Queen Street Police Station every Friday, and, third, he is not to interfere with any of the prosecution witnesses.

CCJ Judges Meet Mayas In Belize
Judges from the Caribbean Court of Justice are currently in Belize for their second visit. They will participate in the 6th Biennial Conference of the Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers (CAJO), which Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin and the Belize Judiciary are hosting. That conference takes place tomorrow, but the visit from the CCJ judges gave them the perfect opportunity to preside over a compliance hearing between the Government of Belize, and the leaders of the Indigenous Maya from Southern Belize. They've been closely following the implementation of their 2015 judgment which recognizes that the Maya people from the 40 villages in Toledo have customary land rights.

Two Sides to The Land Rights Story/Struggle
We also got a chance to speak with Lisel Alamilla, the Chair of the Maya Land Rights Commission. You'll remember that this is the entity that the Government set up to carry out the implementation of the CCJ judgment. She told us that contrary to what the Maya have asserted to the press, not all the delays are the fault of the Government. She told us that there have been delays with the steps that the Maya need to take to move the implementation forward. Here's how she explained why these delays from the Maya has caused the process to stall in certain instances:

Will Maya Leaders Alliance Appeal Rupert Myles Case?
Today's encounter with the Spokesperson for the Maya Leaders Alliance and the Toledo Alcalde's Association gave us the opportunity to ask about the failed litigation against Rupert Myles and the Government of Belize. You'll remember that 2 weeks ago, Justice Michelle Arana dismissed a lawsuit that Manuel Pop, who was the First Alcalde of Santa Cruz Village, brought against Myles and the Government. They say that the Government and Myles are liable for damages he did to the village's Uxbenka Maya Archaeological Site. He built his house on the site's compound and damaged it when he bulldozed a hill to get access to the front door of his illegally placed home. The judge dismissed the claim, and so, we asked if the Maya will appeal. Here's how Cristina Coc answered that question:

Cayo Cops Catch A Familiar Suspect With Weapon
A Santa Elena man has been charged for gun and ammunition offences. Police yesterday caught a man well known to them, Luis Castellanos with (4) live .38 rounds in his pocket. Today, the police went back to the Bradley Bank area where they arrested him and found a .38 revolver for which he will also be charged.

Solider Shot At After He Turned Tables on Wife's "Sexter"
A San Ignacio man was threatened in what police are calling an aggravated assault. The report is that a 21 year old BDF soldier was playing a game on his wife's phone, when a text message from a man came in. Reports say he played along with the text exchange, pretending to be her, and culminated in a text message from the man saying, "come out I want to see you."

Juan Coy, From Politician to PC
If you're not from Toledo, you may not remember the name Juan Coy - but he's a former one term UDP Area Representative for Toledo West. He represented the area form 2008 to 2012, when he lost by a large margin. Since then, he tried to make a political comeback without much success. So, now, he's made a comeback as a police man - which is what he was before he entered politics.

Remembering The Explosion And Demanding Answers From Port Authority
You probably remember that tragic accident in May of this year when a water taxi exploded near the Swing Bridge in Belize City. That blast killed 2 little girls, sisters, 10-year-old Yamiri Yasmin Guy, and 8-year-old Kimberly Melissa Guy, and who were onboard with their parents. The flames of the explosion also injured 8 tourists who were also on the vessel. Since then, the Port Authority has implemented stricter measures to ensure that there is no repeat of this tragedy, but the victims of that explosion are still looking for answers. They want the Belize Port Authority to release their final report on their investigation into the accident. It is reportedly in its final stages and has been for some time now, and so, they want to know when it will be released.

Hon. Marin Asks Who's Funding Brackett?
Today in Corozal - two northern ministers were busy dealing with the lands issued in Corozal Bay. We'll tel you about that shortly, but first to the Minister's comments about activist Geovanni Brackett. Last week, Brackett raised many questions about the quality of generic medications which the Ministry is allowing into the country - while other name brand drugs are scarce or difficult to get. Minister of Health PABLO Marin asked who is paying Brackett?:

Natural Resources Sorts Out Land Issues In Corozal Bay
As we said, Marin was in his division of Corozal Bay working along with his northern cabinet colleague, Natural Resources Minister Hugo Patt, dealing with the lands issues. It's part of the Ministry's rural outreach program - and they told CTV-3 more about the issues they are dealing with:

Stole Water Containers From The Cops
He was either really parched or he just couldn't help himself, either way, 60 year old Rafael Cowo will spend 6 weeks in jail for jacking a 5 gallon bottle with water from the 4th floor verandah of the police Prosecution Branch located at the corner of Albert street and King Street. This is Cowo's 7th theft conviction. Today before Magistrate Emerson Banner he pleaded guilty to one of two counts of theft. When asked by Magistrate Banner the reason why he stole the water bottle, Cowo said he was hungry and he had no place to stay.

Channel 5

Ministry of Health Says “Dirty Looking” Water Unsafe to Drink
There is not good news for residents who consume or use potable water which is showing discoloration. The Ministry of Health today confirmed that the dirty looking water pouring out [...]

M.O.H. Says Dirty Water Not Suitable for Domestic Use
According to Flowers, the water is equally not suitable for other domestic use such as bathing, cooking and washing of white clothes. He says that the turbidity is twice the [...]

B.W.S. Says Residents Should Flush Out Dirty Water before Use
While B.W.S. and the ministry look at addressing the problem, a temporary solution would be to flush out the discoloured water until it becomes clear and safe for consumption and [...]

Fatal Accident Claims 1 Life; Building Contractor Survives
Police were called out to the scene of an accident on the George Price Highway where a man was killed and another escaped the deadly wreck. Two well-known men, contractor [...]

Family Claims Mother of 2 Was Murdered When She Was Poisoned…
News Five has received word that Dangriga Police are investigating the sudden death of an eighteen-year-old mother of two from the south. Shylee Polanco was taken to the Southern Regional [...]

…Boyfriend is Detained, but Released for Lack of Evidence
According to Estella, the boyfriend was detained by the police on Saturday and later released on Monday, because there was insufficient evidence to levy a charge on him.  Today, she [...]

C.C.J. Itinerant Sitting in Belize
There was an itinerant sitting of the Caribbean Court of Justice here in Belize City this morning inside Courtroom Number One of the Supreme Court.  The Maya Leaders Alliance, as [...]

Will G.O.B. Formally Appoint New Successor to Guide Maya Land Rights Process?
According to Coc, following the C.C.J.’s consent order, the Government of Belize individually selected Dinah Shelton, Professor Emeritus at George Washington University Law School, as the expert to guide the [...]

Where do Land Rights Complaints go in the Interim?
Since being identified as Shelton’s successor, the Maya Leaders Alliance has reached out to Dean Rosa Solario, also an academic administrator at George Washington University Law School. Coc says several [...]

Cristina Coc Comments on Dismissed Rupert Myles Suit
Earlier this month, the Supreme Court dismissed a case against the Government of Belize that was brought by Manuel Pop, who at the time was First Alcalde of Santa Cruz [...]

Cost of Living Remained Much the Same in September as it was in 2018
According to the Statistical Institute of Belize, prices for household goods and services in September remained much the same as last year except for a minimal point one percent decrease. [...]

A Bug is Wrecking Havoc in the Sugar Industry Up North
Still reeling from a prolonged drought in which farmers stand to lose as much as fifty million dollars; the sugar industry is now battling with a pest known as a [...]

End of Month and Still no Pay for C.G.A. Employees
The month of October has come to an end and there is still no pay in sight for employees of the Citrus Growers Association.  For the past several weeks, members [...]

No AGM, No Audit since 2014. What’s Up with CGA’s Finances?
According to Chanona, a general meeting of the membership of the Citrus Growers Association has not taken place since 2014 when the last AGM was convened at his insistence.  Since [...]

Government Responds to P.U.P.’s Assertions on Water Board Appointments
The Government has responded to the complaints made by the P.U.P. regarding the appointment of known U.D.P. supporters to water boards in villages across the country. The P.U.P. said earlier [...]

A Training to Improve the Role of First Responders during Emergencies
A health disaster management training for first responders is taking place in Belize City. It is being facilitated by the Pan American Health Organization with funding from the European Union’s [...]

The Reporter

North Side Neighborhood – Scheduled Power Outage
Power outage scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 3 to affect portion of Belize City including Simon Lamb Street, St. Joseph Street from Heusner Crescent to Baymen Avenue...

Senior U.S. State Department Official Visits Belize
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Julie Chung of the State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs visited Belize on October 27-28. This is PDAS Chung’s first visit to Belize, where she met with key government and private sector leaders and underscored the strength and importance of the partnership between Belize and the United States.

Fatal Accident On The Western Hwy. In Ontario Village
At approximately 7.30am this morning (Wednesday October 30th.) A traffic accident occurred on the Western Hwy. in Ontario Village, Cayo.

LOVE FM

How much do you know about Belize’s Coasts?
10 schools in Belize City went head to head in a trivia competition to see who knows more about the coastal zones in Belize. The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) held its sixth annual Trivia Challenge for primary schools as part of their Coastal Awareness Week 2019.

Young woman dies after ingesting poison
The mother of a young woman is calling on the police to effectively investigate the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s death. From what she knows, the young woman, Shailey Polanco, died from ingesting the poison gramaxone.

Don’t drink the brown water!
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has stepped in to clarify statements made by Belize Water Services (BWS) concerning the discoloured water residents have been noticing from their taps.

Local Government Ministry responds to allegations of water board corruption
On Monday, we reported on the concerns of Stann Creek West Representative, Rodwell Ferguson.

Margaritaville coming to Belize in 2020
Margaritaville is an international franchise of resorts with destinations all over the US and the Caribbean. In a little over a year, one of these resorts will be opening in Belize.

SIB release statistics for September
The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB STATS VO) reports that the month of September saw a 0.6% decrease in the value of Belize’s imported goods as compared to September 2018. Among decreased categories, Machinery and Transport Equipment declined by $5.3 million, from $34.6 million to $29.3 million. Imports of Manufactured Goods dropped by $2.6 million, from $20.6 million to $18 million.

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

Caribbean Court of Justice returns; dispute resolution framework set up, but not active
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U.S. re-affirms partnership with Belize on criminal security and youth development
The United States, the destination of most of this region’s drug output such as marijuana, […]

Migratory pressure is “everybody’s problem”
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San Ignacio and Santa Elena Town Council’s Child Advisory Body to host interactive anti-bullying training
The San Ignacio Santa Elena Town Council’s Child Advisory Body (CAB) is hosting an interactive […]

COMPOL and Music Ambassador launch Police theme song competition
Chester Williams, the Commissioner of Police (COMPOL) announced that he and the Ambassador of Music, Shyne […]

Belizeans observe Google’s Project Loon Balloon
Since this morning, residents in western Belize reported the sighting of an unidentified circular object […]

Saint Ignatius High School makes appeal to environmental organizations to assist with collapsed fence due to erosion
Saint Ignatius High School in Santa Elena, Cayo is appealing to environmental organizations in the […]

Youth RISE Project to host open day tomorrow
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation through its Youth Resilience and […]

Santa Elena man busted with illegal ammo
Last night, police conducted an operation in the Bradleys Bank area of Santa Elena and […]

Imer Hernandez injured in road traffic accident
Belizean contractor and owner of Imer Hernandez Development Company Limited was injured in a road […]

Man dies in fatal road traffic accident in Ontario, Cayo
Nelson Ayuso lost his life early this morning in a road traffic accident in Ontario […]

Blogs

Day of the dead
The Day of the Dead or Dia De Los Muertos originated in Mexico but was adopted here in Belize through our Mestizo Ancestors more than 150 years ago. It could be said to coincide quite loosely with the Halloween tradition of North America. In our culture, it is a part of Maya and Catholic tradition and encompasses All Saints Day on October 31st and All Souls Day on November 2nd. It is also known as Los Finados for those who have passed. The belief is that death should be viewed as the final experience of life and is to be celebrated. Further, this tradition persists mostly in the Western Districts in Benque Viejo as well as in Maya and Mestizo Villages and is meant to honor ancestors, friends and family members that have passed away, and especially children, who are especially revered for their innocence. During this time their spirits are said to roam and they must be received in celebration.

Belizean Cuisine and Cultures
With a melting pot of cultures, Belizean cuisine is like no other. Belizean cuisine reflects the country’s culture and rich history encompassing a blend of Mayan, Indian, Chinese, and many other cultures. Due to the multicultural heritage of the Mestizo; Spanish, Mexican and Maya influences dominate their palette. Corn is a staple and plays a significant role in all meals throughout the day, whether it takes the form of a tortilla, or in tamales, bollos or tamalitos. Spicy and colorful peppers are an essential ingredient in virtually every dish, while black beans, squash, plantains and fresh fruit accent most menus. Owing to the far reach of the Mestizo across Belize, and the savory appeal of the cuisine, traditional Mestizo foods like Relleno negro, escabeche, tamales, tacos, panades, and garnaches have become favorites of all the diverse cultural groups in Belize.

Belize – A Bachelorette Destination
If you are considering have a destination bachelorette party, Belize should be a destination to consider. Not like your regular bachelorette destinations like Miami and Las Vegas, known for great nightlife and parties, Belize is a great destination for brides looking for relaxation and adventure. The perfect itinerary for a Bachelorette weekend in Belize includes good company, sunshine, adventure and a great time! You can make the Barrier Reef your playground for the day. Rent a private catamaran or boat charter and spend the day sailing the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and diving. Up for some adventure, how about a catch and cook? Spend your morning reef fishing or diving for conch. Your catch of the day can be thrown on the grill for lunch or made into a nice fresh ceviche! Enjoy lunch on a beautiful island, all to your to yourself.

International Sourcesizz

Can Caribbean Sugar Make A Sweet Comeback?
The Caribbean sugar industry is at a crossroads. Free market pressures, operational inefficiencies and sugar producers’ inability to meet manufacturers’ demand for refined white sugar have been a major source of frustration, resulting in an over-reliance on extra-regional sugar imports.

Videos

  • Channel 5 Obituaries - LETA JOSEPHINE ROMERO NEE PLUMMER, 2min.

  • Hunt for Dinner in Belize, 3min.

  • Jaguars Caught on Camera Trap, Hill Bank Field Station, Programme for Belize, March 13, 2013, 1/2min.

  • Sports Talk Show, 90min.

    October 30, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Junnie Basto remanded for raping a minor
    38-year-old Junnie Basto, a resident of Barrier Reef Drive, was arrested and charged for Rape of a Child in San Pedro Town. He appeared at the San Pedro Magistrate Court on Tuesday, October 29th, where no plea was taken, and he was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until his next court date on December 18, 2019. According to a police report, the incident occurred on October 13th. The report indicates that the victim, a 6-year-old boy, and his father, went to a friend’s house in San Pedro to stay for the night. During the stay, his father left the house to buy food. The young boy said that he went to sleep and was awakened by a male person whom he knows. The male person proceeded to have sexual relations with him against his will.

    Dana Reyes is Miss Garifuna San Pedro 2019-2020
    16-year-old Dana Reyes was elected the new Miss Garifuna San Pedro 2019-2020 during the pageant on Saturday, October 26th. Held at the Lions Den in San Pedro Town, the pageant saw four lovely young ladies vying for the coveted title in an event that showcased the Garifuna culture, traditions, dances and even their contributions towards Belize. At 8:30PM, island residents gathered to watch who would be the next Garifuna beauty ambassador. Organized by National Garifuna Council San Pedro Branch (NGCSPB), the show began with the singing of the National Anthem in Garifuna.

    Senior U.S. State Department Official Visits Belize
    Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Julie Chung of the State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs visited Belize on October 27-28. This is PDAS Chung’s first visit to Belize, where she met with key government and private sector leaders and underscored the strength and importance of the partnership between Belize and the United States. PDAS Chung met with Prime Minister Dean Barrow, Minister of State Tracy Taeger-Panton, Leader of the Opposition John Briceno, Ambassador of Japan to Belize Hiroyuki Kubota, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Remus Li-Kuo Chen, and Belizean alumni from several State Department exchange programs.

    National Police Statistics register a decrease in major crimes from January to September 2019
    The statistics for major crimes (murder, rape, robbery, burglary, theft) from January to September of this year have been released by the Belize Police Department (BPD), and they show a decrease in comparison to the same time frame in 2018. The statistics show that from January to September in 2018, there were 1,040 major crimes, whereas 2019 shows 951 reported cases in the same time frame. The greatest decrease was noted in the eastern region of the country, which is the Belize District, and includes the coastal municipalities of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. According to the report, during the same period in 2018 it saw 488 incidents compared to the 375 recorded up to September of this year. Burglary ranks highest in numbers reported in the Cayes, with five in Caye Caulker and 31 reported on Ambergris Caye.

    BRS Area Representative Manuel Heredia Jr., running for UDP Second Deputy Party Leader
    With Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow and leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP) set to retire, a reshuffling is about to take place with applicants vying for several vacant posts within the party, ranging from party leadership down to chairmanship. One of those available posts is for Second Deputy Party Leader. Area Representative for Belize Rural South (Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker and St. George’s Caye) Honourable Manuel Heredia Jr., has submitted his application contesting the post against Belize Rural Central representative and Minister of State in the Ministry of Immigration Honourable Beverly Williams.

    Ambergris Today

    Belize Audubon Society’s Bird Badge Launch
    On Saturday, October 26, 2019 the Belize Audubon Society hosted the annual BAS-coined event, ‘Urban Bird Watch’, at the BAS Main Office in Belize City. The Urban Bird Watch is a free annual BAS event, celebrating its 10th year in 2019, held in every major constituency alongside community members of all ages to bring a greater awareness of birds in our urban environment and spark interest in bird watching. At 6:00am, a brief welcome was given to Belize City’s Urban Bird Watch 2019 by Conservation Director, Ms.

    Miss Belize – Selena Urias Wins Miss International Purple Ribbon Award
    Lovely Selena Urias is currently in Tokyo, Japan representing the Jewel – Belize. Selena Urias proudly wore her national costume representing Ix Chel the Maya Moon Goddess and it was during that segment where she was awarded the Purple Ribbon Ambassador Award. The Miss International Purple Ribbon Ambassador Award is a recognition that names a champion for the fight against domestic violence. Selena was awarded after the national costume presentation held on Monday, October 28, 2019.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    Cultural Drumming
    Hosted by Happy Hopkins Events & Celebrations. Culture event on Halloween Night . Live drumming with Dunbei Yurumein Drummers at Hopkins Bay Resort on Thursday, 31st October from 7p.m. to 9pm at the poolside!

    Discolouration in the Belize City and District Water Distribution System
    Belize Water Services (BWS) continues to receive customer reports of discoloured water in the Belize City and District Water Distribution System. These complaints started on Friday, October 18, 2019. To date, we have received about two hundred (200) such complaints. BWS has been diligently analyzing the problem and looking at various remedial options to ensure that our water quality is of the required standard. The findings are indicating that the discoloured water in the distribution system is being caused by increased levels of iron in the water, which is causing the discolouration when it interacts for long period with the chlorine.

    Celebration of Día de Muertos in Belize
    The Embassy of Mexico in Belize cordially invite thepublic of Belize to the: Celebration of Día de Muertos in Belize at the Mexican Cultural , Newtown Barracks & Wilson Streets - Belize City

    Appointment of Village Water Boards
    The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development hereby notifies the public that all village water boards are being set up with consultation as required by the Village Council Act. In a public notice dated August 12th, 2019, the Ministry informed that the process of appointment of water boards was commencing. This was accompanied by individual letters to all the persons with whom the Village Council Act requires that consultations be undertaken. This indicates the start of the selection and appointment process of water boards and highlights the requirements of the law. While public notification is not normal practice, the Ministry opted to do so to ensure that all interested stakeholders would be aware that the appointment process for the 107 village water boards would begin.

    HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BELIZE-TAIWAN AGRICULTURE INVESTMENT MISSION October 20 – 26, 2019
    The Government of Belize (GOB), through the Ministry with responsibility for Investment, Trade and Commerce, along with the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), hosted the Belize Agriculture Investment Mission in partnership with the Republic of China (ROC) Taiwan on October 20 – 26, 2019. This mission followed the successful execution of the Belize Tourism Investment Mission held earlier in June 2019. The visiting delegation included executives visiting from both Taiwan and the Taiwanese Community in North America.

    Corozal Day of the Dead celebratio
    Rotaract Club of Corozal invites you to Day of the Dead celebration November 1st at St. Francis Xavier School Auditorium.

    Hanal Pixan in Corozal
    Hanal Pixan was a beautiful experience honouring our dearly departed, honouring this lost ancient Maya tradition. We wish to thank our cultural stakeholders who came out on their own accord creating beautiful, meaningful altars: Belize Diabetes Association - Corozal Branch, Oceana, CJC Humanities Department, ESTM Social Studies and Tourism Departments, CEMJC Tourism Program, 11th Mary Hill Scouts Troop, Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of Corozal, Department of Youth Services and the Cano family of Xaibe Village. Fantastic cultural performances by Kiech Pam O'kot, Sak Pakel and Raices Mexicanas Retourno Belicenas and Le' Ts'unu'um. Thank you to our culinary artists for preparing delicious Maya cuisine.

    Just days after this street was cemented by the Corozal Town Council, BWSL decides to cut and dig it up for installation of pipes
    1st Street North, which is between the Central Park and Belize Bank, is one of the busiest streets in town. Why does BWSL have a habit of doing this in most municipalities. We were informed that they do pay the damages but why can't they first coordinate these works with the local authorities and avoid so much expense and inconveniences.

    New office for BEL in San Pedro
    Starting November 4, we will be serving customers in San Pedro Town from our new office on Pescador Drive.

    The National Channel is looking for Individuals to Host our annual Christmas Show
    Christmas In Town ! Here in the Twin Towns | 6th,13th,20th December | Falcon Field | Send Us a Message | Give Us A Call | Auditions are 29th & 31st October,2019 | Between 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

    High temperatures bleaching coral
    Our San Pedro corals are bleaching due to the high water temperature. This is bad for business if the corals are not able to recover. We can inform customers that our coral nursery program is our way to prepare for these threats to our dive sites.

    Channel 7

    38 Year Old Man Accused of Forcibly Sodomising Child
    Tonight, there is a deeply disturbing crime to report against a child: a 6 year old boy was raped in San Pedro and a 38 year old man has been charged for this horrendous act. The report is that on October 13th,, the boy and his father went to a family friend's San Pedro house to stay for the night. The boy's father left the house to buy food. The family friend then woke up the child and forcibly sodomised him.

    Body Found In Macal River, No Foul Play
    A man's body was found in the Macal River this evening in San Ignacio town, but foul play is not suspected. Police suspect that Ishmael August form San Antonio village may have been intoxicated under the bridge when he slipped into the water and drowned.

    No Arrest For Wangsta's Decapitation
    There haven't been any arrests in the beheading of Roaring Creek resident Michael Gladden also known as "Wangsta". As we have reported, Gladden went out on Saturday night to a football game and later to Stars Club in Belmopan. His body and head were then found on Sunday morning at different spots in the bushes on the Mount Pleasant Road.

    Markie's Macobi After Serpent Sidekick Snatched Away
    Markie, the Roaring Creek snake man, has "Macoby" tonight after the forest department and police confiscated his pet. Today, Markie took his boa constrictor for a little outing at the Belmopan market and that's when the authorities swooped in and snatched his snake. Now, all Markie wants is to be reunited with his slithering serpent side kick. Mark "Markie" Molina, Roaring Creek Snake Man: "They too away my snake this morning. I went by Tiger Town and pay my family a visit because they wanted to see him (snake) and while coming back through the market square, Audubon met me and they didn't tell me anything...."

    Appeal Fails For Man Convicted Of Shooting Cousin
    A man convicted of attempted murder appealed his case today to no avail. In 2018, 22 year old Kevaughan Staine was sentenced to ten years in prison for the attempted murder of his cousin, Taisha Staine. The incident happened on the night of New Years Eve 2013. Staine was walking on Gladden Street, heading home, when Kevaughan rode up on a bicycle and shot her in the neck. She tried to escape, but he pursued her, firing more shots, which injured her to her left leg, her left hand, her back, and her chest. Fortunately, she survived the attack.

    SSB Going Biometric
    The Social Security Board has embarked on an initiative to institute biometrics as its primary form of identification for customers. If everything goes according to plan, by next year March, persons making benefit claims to SSB will verify their identities using biometrics such as fingerprinting. It's part of Social Security's push to improve the way it does business, and with this proposed change, SSB is hoping to bring about 2 positive changes. They want to improve service delivery and retire the need for cumbersome paperwork for customers. And, equally important, SSB wants to reduce the risk of fraud and false identification that smart criminals have attempted to use to scam the social security fund.

    Colin Will Add A C to 5 C's Center
    Today's consultation gave us an opportunity to ask Dr. Colin Young about his impending departure from Social Security. The Doctor of Ecology has been appointed as the new executive director of the 5 C's, the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center. The current executive director, Dr. Kenrick Leslie, is leaving on January 5th, 2020, and on the following day, Dr. Young will succeed him the new Director.

    Jose Mai Says GOB Sugar Bailout Is Not Enough
    PUP Orange Walk South Area Representative and cane farmer Jose Mai is not happy with the two million dollar relief package government plans to give cane farmers. Government has announced that it will make a two million dollar loan from the CDB to get some relief to cane farmers. Mai says the figure is laughable and it is not nearly enough:

    Sugar Has More Problems Than Drought
    But drought isn't the only problem facing the sugar industry. There's now a worm infestation called the defoliator worm, or grass looper. It's affecting a large number of cane crops and Marcos Osorio, the Director, of the Sugar Industry Research & Development Institute told CTV-3 more about it. Marcos Osorio, Director, SIRDI: "Well the thing with the cane industry is that we thought that the problem was over with the drought but now are facing another challenge, which is the problem with what we call the defoliator worm, we call it a few things but cane farmers will understand defoliator worm..."

    Vasquez Family Stands With Isaac Marin's Family
    17 year old Isaac Marin was killed last week - stabbed to death by his cousin, 28 year old Jaymie Marin, a mentally ill man - who appears to have been in the throes of a psychotic episode. It is the second murder in a few months caused by a mentally ill man. In June, Collin Francis killed Nestor Jude Vasquez in the Queen Street police station holding cell - and yesterday his family issued a statement. It says, quote, "We are once more violently confronted with the fatal consequences of having inadequate mental health care and support for persons suffering from mental illness and their families.

    Ministry Responds to Rodwell
    Last night, we showed you our interview with PUP's Rodwell Ferguson. The Stann Creek West Area Rep. has complained that Dr. Carla Barnett, the Local Government Minister of State, is attempting to appoint UDP-recommended persons to water boards in villages that recently elected PUP village councils. He says that she hasn't consulted with the village councils and the corresponding area rep, as she is obliged to do, according to the law. Ferguson further alleges she should not be allowed to exercise her authority in such an arbitrary fashion, but Dr. Barnett has since told us that he jumped the gun when he came to the media with this complaint.

    Hugh Says He's The Owner, Not The Editor
    And in an update to another story we ran last night, Hugh O'Brien from Breaking Belize News has given us a few specifics of how his organization works. As we told you, Breaking Belize News and its principals are currently before the Court of Appeal, where they have to answer to contempt of court proceedings. That's due to an error they made earlier this year when this online news outfit published a story that wrongly criticized the court for secrecy. As we told you, we were informed that his role within Breaking Belize News is to act as an editor for their news content. Well, he called us to say that actually, he is one of two registered owners of Breaking Belize News.

    Coastal Awareness A Priority
    It's coastal awareness week again and it officially began today with a ceremony in Belmopan at the UB President's auditorium. Here is more from the ceremony on the importance and relevance of this observance.

    Reading For The Village
    A reading contest was held today at Bullet Tree Falls Immaculate Conception R.C school. We spoke to the Principal of the school Victor Pott who told us that the competition is accessible to different levels of readers.

    Shyne-ing Through Job Creation
    Two weeks ago, we showed you the Mesopotamia Community Sewing Center spearheaded by PUP Candidate for the area, Dr. Candice Pitts. And on Friday we stopped in at her opponent, Shyne Barrow's Mesopotamia Resource Center. He was there with his partners from the Love Foundation to distribute certificates of completion to the 18 persons that had been placed in gainful employment through the center.

    Channel 5

    A Man is Charged for Raping a Male Child
    Another child has been scarred due to sexual violence at a very early age. It involves a six-year-old boy, who was left in the care of a man he knows [...]

    Still No Charges in Belmopan Beheading of Michael Gladden
    Several persons, from Cotton Tree and Roaring Creek Villages, were picked up and remain detained as the investigation continues into the beheading of Michael Gladden. But still charges have yet [...]

    Guatemalan Fishermen Saying No to a Gill Net Ban on Belizean Soil?
    Last Friday in Belmopan, a group of fishermen picketed the Assembly Building in protest of a proposed ban on the use of gill nets.  Conservationists across the country, including Oceana, [...]

    Guatemalans with Belizean Fishing License? Say It Ain’t So!
    According to Maheia, these men have been issued fishing licenses to operate within Belizean waters, a practice, he says, that ought to be illegal.  When the BTV pursued the Guatemalan [...]

    An Update on Shooting Victim Stephen Buckley
    Back in 2010, Stephen Buckley was wrongfully shot in the head by Inspector Dennis Lopez. Still yet the Inspector is yet to be tried for attempted murder and dangerous harm. [...]

    Court Dismisses Kevaughan Staine’s Appeal of Attempted Murder Conviction
    Late this evening, the Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal from twenty-one-year-old Kevaughan Staine, upholding his conviction for the attempted murder of Taisha Staine.  Kevaughan was found guilty in October [...]

    S.S.B. Proposes Use of Biometrics to Decrease Fraud, Enhance Service Delivery
    The Social Security Board is stepping up and is holding consultations to introduce the use of biometrics in the social security system by early next year. When it comes on [...]

    Khalid Belisle for Vice Chairman of U.D.P.!
    At the close of October twenty-fifth, a total of twelve candidates, including leadership aspirants John Saldivar and Patrick Faber, met the deadline to run for posts in the hierarchy of [...]

    Is Khalid on John’s Convention Dream Team?
    In Belmopan, Mayor Belisle and Area Representative John Saldivar share a strong political alliance, campaigning for each other in their respective pursuits.  Saldivar has put together a slate which covers [...]

    No ‘Wata’ in Hattieville for over 24 Hrs; B.W.S. Apologizes
    If you live in Hattieville it is likely that you or a neighbour experienced water shortage for more than a day.  It is also likely that those affected didn’t have [...]

    B.W.S. Says Mobile Generator is Manually Operated on Caye Caulker
    You may recall the deadly fire that claimed the life of Elmer Chub on Caye Caulker last month. Fire broke out at a two-storey commercial building which destroyed apartments and [...]

    Manny Heredia Concerned About How Developments are Approved on Caye Caulker
    Over a week ago, a resident on Caye Caulker wrote an article on Facebook expressing her concern about massive developments happening on Caye Caulker. Her concern was that there didn’t [...]

    Caye Caulker Preparing for High Season
    The high season for the tourism industry is fast approaching and stakeholders from key tourist destinations are reinforcing security measures to ensure that their guests can remain carefree during their [...]

    U-18 Football Team Wins Silver at UNCAF Tournament
    Belize’s under eighteen football team brought back silver from the Centro-American de Futbol (UNCAF for short) tournament.  The team played their hearts out, but in the end they lost the [...]

    S.S.B. C.E.O. Speaks of Departure to Assume New Post at C.C.C.C.C.
    On January sixth, 2020, C.E.O. of the Social Security Board Doctor Colin Young will officially assume the post of Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre.  Doctor Young [...]

    A Calendar of Activities at Lerisi in Belize City for Garifuna Settlement Day
    Garifuna Settlement Day is quickly approaching and this year, the activities in Belize City kick off earlier than usual. The Belize City Branch of the National Garifuna Council is putting [...]

    U.S. on Venezuela and Cuba Affairs
    The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs headed by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Julie Chung concluded a discussion on Venezuela today.  The state of affairs in that South American country remains [...]

    Quality Poultry Commemorates New Building on San Pedro
    Quality Poultry Products is the leading supplier of chicken – still the most consumed protein in Belize. The poultry producer has been operating on the island for many years but [...]

    Amandala

    Another beheading
    Belmopan police have not been able to determine a motive for a gruesome murder that occurred over the weekend and was uncovered after the discovery by police of a headless body between Miles 45 and 46 on a road off the George Price Highway. At today’s police press briefing, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Joseph Myvett, who is in charge of national crime, briefed the media on what police have been able to piece together so far.

    Dario’s Meat Pie former deliveryman remanded
    Joseph Bryant Richards, Jr., 23, a former deliveryman for Dario’s Meat Pie bakery, located at 33 Hydes Lane, who the police believe was one of two persons who stole $34,103 from the office of the famous bakery, was charged with aggravated burglary when he appeared today before Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts Anderson. Richards pleaded not guilty to the charge. His attorney, Ronell Gonzalez, submitted that he should be granted bail, although the offence was committed with a firearm. However, Senior Magistrate Anderson said that the law precluded her from granting bail. She remanded him until December 30.

    Belize beat Guatemala on the way to UNCAF U-18 finals
    The Ministry of Sports, in conjunction with the Football Federation of Belize, invited the local media to a special ceremony at the Marion Jones Sports Complex this evening to express the nation’s appreciation for the outstanding achievement of some young athletes who recently returned from competition abroad where they made history for Belize. The National Primary School male volleyball champions, Holy Redeemer Primary School, won Belize’s first ever Gold medal in volleyball at the U-13 CODICADER Games in Costa Rica last weekend, where against all odds they were able to defeat the powerhouse host, Costa Rica for the championship.

    Inmar Welch, 28, executed in Gales Point
    Inmar Kareem Welch, 28, also known as ‘Turtle”, a fisherman of Gales Point, was riding his bicycle in the village at about 7:00 Friday night when an unknown gunman came towards him and fired multiple times at him. The shooter then escaped. Welch was hit in the chest and in the head. Police said that they saw Welch lying on the roadside in pools of his blood, and about 6 expended 9mm cases were found near him. Welch, they said, was already dead.

    Justice Moore reserves judgment in Danny Mason’s beheading murder trial
    The defense made final submissions today in the long-drawn-out trial of William “Danny” Mason and the four men — Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo —who are charged with him for the July 2016 murder and beheading of Pastor Llewellyn Lucas. Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore, who heard the case without a jury, indicated that she will deliver her judgment before the end of the year.

    Belize City football blues
    With BDF FC suffering back to back losses, while their head coach, Jerome Serano was away with the Belize National U-18, along with BDF striker Jesse August and goalkeeper Charles Tillett, Belize City football fans are suddenly worried that they might miss the playoff action this season, unless BDF FC can stop the surging defending champions, San Pedro Pirates FC this Sunday at the MCC. Below we take the opportunity to print a relevant Krem Radio editorial. It is several years now that Belize City does not have a franchise in the national semi-pro football league. The weirdness of this situation derives from the fact that Belize City is the population center of the nation, and, therefore, presumably the largest fan base and market in the nation for the world’s most popular sport.

    Bredda brace helps Wagiya drop Bandits, 2-1; Verdes back on top in PLB Opening Season
    The playoff race is going down to the wire in the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2019-2020 Opening Season, as Wagiya SC of Dangriga kept their slim playoff hopes alive with an impressive comeback win against formerly undefeated Bandits Sport, allowing Verdes FC to once again claim the top spot in the standings. With only 2 regular season weeks remaining, 4 teams are still in the hunt for 2 available playoff spots; both Verdes and Bandits are already playoff bound. Week 12 had 2 games scheduled for Saturday night and 2 for Sunday afternoon.

    National Amateur Women’s League Week 3 scores
    Women’s football is back in full swing, with the Football Federation of Belize’s (FFB) National Amateur Women’s League (NAWL) 2019-2020 Opening Season already in its 3rd week of competition. Four Week-3 games were played over the weekend, 2 each on Saturday and Sunday, October 26-27. The 12 teams are divided into North (N) and South (S) zones with 6 teams each. At the Victor Sanchez Field on Saturday, Rumberas’ new acquisition, Kaite Jones, formerly of Orange Walk’s Gladiators, netted 5 goals (11’, 45’, 68’, 72’ & 77’) and Ashley Rodriguez added another (82’), along with an own goal from Toledo Divas’ Evelyn Cholom (85’ OG), as visiting Rumberas rolled over the home team.

    Corozal F.A. Opening Season Week 6 update
    Another successful week of our ongoing Corozal Football Association (CFA) Opening Season Youth Tournament 2019-2020. We are grateful to the Almighty Father for His continued blessings upon our office and participating teams. On Sunday, October 20, we had a total of 7 games, i.e. 2 U10, 2 U13 and 3 U20. We are pleased to report that all went well; it has been six successful weeks. These weeks have been a success, thanks to the match officials and the Disciplinary Committee persons, who have devoted their time and efforts.

    Ladyville Rising Stars are the first Smart Mundialito Champion of Champions
    The first ever Smart 13 & Under Mundialito Champion of Champions tournament was held on Saturday, October 19, at the Marion Jones Sports Complex football field, where the 2019 champions and sub-champions of both the Belize City Smart Mundialito and the Stann Creek F.A. Smart Mundialito participated in a quadrangular “champion of champions” knockout. In the semifinals, the match-ups saw the champions clashing with the sub-champions; then, following a U-10 exhibition, the semifinals losers played for 3rd place, and the winners squared off for the championship.

    Editorial: Unrelenting Florida Cubans increase pressure on Cuba
    A story from Reuters that was published in The New York Times on its website says that recent new restrictions placed on Cuba by the USA have “gone over well among Cuban Americans in South Florida, a key voting bloc in Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign.” The US’s justification for increased sanctions on Cuba is that Cuba is supporting Venezuela, so this stone is meant for two birds, Cuba’s communist system being the other. There is no question that Belizeans are closer to the American people than they are to the Cuban people. That is a simple matter of history. Both the Americans and the Belizeans are former colonies of the British; our soldiers fought alongside theirs in the two World Wars, and a large percentage of our people have made the US their second home. Belizean students have been studying in the US on scholarships paid for by the American people before Belizean students began studying in Cuba on scholarships paid for by the Cuban people.

    So, we’ve got animation
    Congratulations to the team that put together Tecuani and the Duende, hailed as the first animated movie in Belize. The first showing was on Friday, so this week we should be getting the reviews. Last week Plus TV had on a couple guys who worked on the script and the animation and they showed a couple scenes. It looked interesting, and Disney-ish. That Disney-ish thing, that’s not a criticism. That could be a good thing. I don’t have the expertise to know, just to like, not like. I liked the clip they showed on Plus TV.

    From British Honduras to Belize: one family’s drama
    When Matron was leaving the convent, after arranging to return at intervals until the cast was removed, the Sister Superior had asked if she would take a message from her to her father. Somewhat taken aback, she had been quick-witted enough to agree on condition that it was in writing, as, from the trend of remarks voiced by the Sister from time to time, she had begun to have the uncomfortable feeling that she wanted an opportunity to pass judgment on her father concerning how the accident had occurred. As far as she knew, the Sister had not been given any details by her father; but perhaps her curiosity had been aroused by the speculations expressed openly by some influential people who knew of his reputation for cruelty.

    Amandala sets the record straight re settlement with Rene
    On 12th April 2019, Rene Villanueva, Sr., filed suit in the Supreme Court against Amandala and its Editor seeking damages for statements contained in an editorial published on 22nd February 2019. Amandala accepted that a statement in the editorial that Mr. Villanueva was born in Honduras was in error. In its defence, Amandala clarified that this statement had been corrected in its 1st March 2019 edition of the newspaper when Amandala published a portion of a letter from Lawrence Vernon which was headed

    Rosita May Morgan (1947 – 2019)
    Funeral services were held at St. Martin De Porres Roman Catholic Church in Lake Independence, Belize City, this morning for Rosita May Morgan, 72. Born on January 26, 1947, she had passed on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. Officiating was Fr. Jeremy Zipple. The Eulogy was given by Leroy Young, Sr.

    Tishaun Hamilton pleads guilty to manslaughter
    Tishaun Hamilton, 25, a former firefighter charged with the murder of his cousin, Eaton Lamb, 17, pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter when he appeared today before Madam Justice Marilyn Williams. Hamilton’s sentencing has been deferred until December 9 in order for the court to obtain a social inquiry report, a victim impact statement, and testimony from character witnesses on Hamilton’s behalf.

    Two women fall through a rotted verandah
    At about 4:30 Saturday evening, two sisters who were walking up wooden stairs to go to the upper flat of their 2-flat, timber family house on Church Street, fell to the ground from the home’s verandah, elevated about 8 feet above the ground, because a rotted portion of the flooring on the verandah broke. Virginia Smith, 60, of Fern Lane, and Judith Brooks, 53, of Zericote Street, were rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital by ambulance.

    Breaking Belize News principals appear before the Court of Appeal
    The principals of Breaking Belize News (BBN) appeared before the Court of Appeal this afternoon for a contempt of court case that was held in-camera. When they exited the courtroom, one of the principals of BBN, Hugh O’Brien, told the majority of the city’s press corps who were waiting outside the court that he could not offer any comment. O’Brien referred us to their attorney, Anthony Sylvestre, who was not present in court this afternoon.

    The Reporter

    A Slap On The Wrist For Weed Runners Caught In Orange Walk
    Four persons were all hauled before the Orange Walk Magistrate Court on Monday to answer to drug-related charges after they were busted with over two and a half pounds of marijuana and over 100 packs of contraband cigarettes at a police checkpoint in Orange Walk on Saturday night.

    What’s Happening To Our Water Supply – As More Complaints & Concern Increases
    Residents of Belize City and some rural BWS Customers have been complaining about the discoloration of water emerging from their taps in the past few days. Over the weekend the complaints about the brown water tripled when Hattieville residents were forced to endure 32 hours without water.

    LOVE FM

    Young women learn what it takes to be a leader
    Several young women from rural communities in the Toledo District learned the skills to be a leader through the Fostering Community Base Opportunities for Girls project.

    Belize places 3rd in National Council of Indian Culture Pageant
    Belize has placed third at the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) pageant. Arelee Parham won the prestigious title of Miss East Indian Belize on August 3.

    Sanctions to US companies affect money transfer agencies in Belize
    Last week, we reported that Authorities have banned the transfer of monies into Cuba for non-nationals. According to a notice pinned at one of the money transfer agencies in Belize, it noted that effective Wednesday, October 9, 2019, “all transactions to Cuba must be by a family member sending to another close Cuban family member.”

    Social Security Board moving forward with Bio-metric technology
    The Social Security Board is moving forward with the latest technology. They are looking into implementing a Biometric System into the registration process. This system will allow for faster application processing and benefit claims.

    Criminals attempt to rob Dario’s Meatpie Bakery
    There was an attempted robbery at Dario’s Meat-Pie establishment on Hyde’s Lane over this weekend. The famous bakery was robbed of thousands of dollars, which were later recovered.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    America keeps screws on Cuba, Venezuela
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    Police: Boy, 6, raped in San Pedro
    A resident from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye has been arrested and charged for raping a […]

    U.S. takes interest in Belize-Taiwan relations
    A high-ranking American State Department official has wrapped up a visit which she says affirms […]

    Police investigating rape of 14-year-old minor
    Police are investigating a report made by a 14-year-old minor and her mother in the […]

    Students participate in 4th annual Reading Contest
    Students from over 9 primary schools in Cayo are participating in the 4th annual reading contest. […]

    Body retrieved from river near low lying bridge in San Ignacio
    The body of a man was retrieved from the river near the low lying bridge […]

    Mexican Embassy invites you to ‘Dia de Muertos’ display
    The Embassy of Mexico in Belize is inviting the public to celebrate ‘Día de Muertos’. […]

    Senior U.S. State Department Official visits Belize
    United States Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS), Julie Chung of the State Department’s Bureau of […]

    New York Times publishes travel writing piece about Belize
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    DIGI/BECOL basketball regular season slowly winding down
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    Blogs

    The Caribbean
    When people think of tropical sandy beaches, the first place that comes in mind is the Caribbean. The Caribbean is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and amazing biodiversity. It is also referred to as the West Indies after Christopher Columbus discovered the Caribbean thinking it was the Indies, Asia, on his voyage to find another route there. The Caribbean is an archipelago surrounded by the Caribbean Sea or for some areas with it at their coast. In addition to that, it is divided into different regions known as the Lucayan Archipelago, the ABC Islands, the Greater Antilles and the Lesser Antilles. Within these regions, there are over 700 islands which include the famous ones such as Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados, Bahamas, Cuba, and much more.

    Animal Encounters in Belize
    Belize is a destination of rich habitat and exotic wildlife. Seeing animals in the wild provide travelers with inspiring, exciting, and life-changingtravelexperience. If you have an appreciation for nature and animals, Belize is a place to visit. It is home to around 145 species of mammals and 600 bird species. Here is how you can experience animal encounters in Belize.

    International Sourcesizz

    IMF Warns Of Economic Growth Slowdown In Latin America And The Caribbean
    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) says growth in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is slowing down and that the region is expected to record a 0.2 per cent growth this year. The Washington-based financial institution said that the low growth comes amid continued trade tensions, lower global growth, subdued commodity prices, and in some large regional economies, high policy uncertainty. In its latest Regional Economic Outlook for the Western Hemisphere, the IMF says in order to boost the economic recovery and create more jobs, the region will need to rely on domestic drivers of growth like consumption and investment.

    Senior U.S. State Department Official Visits Belize
    Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Julie Chung of the State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs visited Belize on October 27-28. This is PDAS Chung’s first visit to Belize, where she met with key government and private sector leaders and underscored the strength and importance of the partnership between Belize and the United States. PDAS Chung met with Prime Minister Dean Barrow, Minister of State Tracy Taeger-Panton, Leader of the Opposition John Briceno, Ambassador of Japan to Belize Hiroyuki Kubota, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Remus Li-Kuo Chen, and Belizean alumni from several State Department exchange programs.

    Videos

  • The Business Perspective, 2hr.

  • Belize Dive, 13min.

  • Belize Dental Mission, 1min. Dr. Philip Abramsky of Park 56 Dental, his wife, Kathy and a dedicated group of IHE volunteers work tirelessly in Belize to offer much needed dental services to the impoverished children who live in small villages in this country.

  • Belize 2019: San Pedro San Ignacio, 3.5min. Quick video compilation of my trip to Belize with my family and paramour, who filmed everything on his GoPro :) we had a wonderful time and adventure!

  • KTV Latino episode 4, 2hr12min.

  • Insect vs Arachnid, 2min. Amazing footage, look at the tarantula defending its life. Tarantula hawk wasp. They specialize in hunting tarantulas.

  • Police Link Up, 60min.

  • Lauren’s Trip to Belize, 2min.

  • Building climate resilience in Toledo District, Belize, 7.5min. A snapshot of how our Community Disaster Risk Reduction Fund is helping the Toledo District in Belize adapt to the realities of climate change.

  • English Caye Lighthouse, Belize from Carnival Glory-2019, 1min. English Caye Light is an active lighthouse on a small island in Belize, about 15 km (9 m) southeast of Belize Harbour. The location of English Caye is 17.32721°N 88.04883°W. The white lantern (white flash every 2.5 sec) is mounted on a 19 m high square pyramidal skeletal tower, and also has a focal plane of 19 m (62 ft). The entire lighthouse painted white. The lighthouse accessible only by boat, but visible from all ships entering the harbor. As we saw from our cruise ship (Carnival Glory).

  • Earth's Journeys- Belize (1994, partial), 41min. Here's some classic footage from The Travel Channel from around the fall of 1994, where we visit Belize, head to a reef at a marine reserve, visit a zoo, and do some more scuba diving. Features a cameo by Christopher Reeve.

    October 29, 2019


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    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Police find AK-47 Rifle and ammunition in San Mateo
    San Pedro Police conducted a joint anti-drug operation in the San Mateo Sub-division on Sunday, October 27th. The operation in the area led to the discovery of a yellow plastic bag containing 10 live 7.62X39 calibre ammunition. Further searches led to an AK-47 Rifle along with a silver AK-47 magazine. All items were labelled, sealed and deposited as found property.

    Belize Emergency Response Personnel receive the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Certified Training in Emergency Care and Treatment (ECAT) in Disasters
    Belizean First Responders from the Ministry of Health, Belize Emergency Response Team, Southern Emergency Services, Belize National Fire Service, Belize Police Department, and Department of Transport will participate in PAHO’s skills-based training course to improve their ability in providing emergency medical care and treatment to patients on the scene of an accident or emergency. The training is jointly funded by the European Union through the Health Sector Support Programme Belize, and the Global Affairs Canada under the project Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Program – Health Sector.

    Ambergris Today

    Manuel Heredia Jr Running For UDP Second Deputy Party Leader
    Twelve applicants are vying for five vacant post in the National Executive of the United Democratic Party. San Pedro’s very own Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. is taking up the challenge and has applied for the post of second deputy leader against Belize Rural Central representative Beverly Williams. Minister Heredia has had three terms in Government under his belt and believes he can work with either Faber or Saldivar (both running for Party Leader) to continue his works in his electoral division but most importantly to give back to his party.

    Belize And Taiwan Collaborate On Belize’s Urban Resilience & Disaster Prevention Project
    In April 2019, the Governments of Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan) held an agreement signing ceremony for a project entitled Belize Urban Resilience and Disaster Prevention. Since then the project has been well underway. The first phase of implementation commenced with the review and selection of priority sites for the installation of two water regime monitoring stations and the early warning system technology. These locations were selected according to stakeholder consultation and field surveys that were conducted in July and early September, respectively.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    Saga Spooktacular Halloween Fundraiser
    The Saga Spooktacular Halloween Fundraiser is coming up November 3rd - food, fun, prizes, dogs in costumes...I LOVE attending this event and man...do you feel great about donating to this cause. Here are some of my pictures from prior years...

    BHA/Avianca/Tropic Air Roadshow
    The BTB participated in the BHA/Avianca/Tropic Air road show held on October 24 at the Westin Camino Real Hotel in Guatemala City. Over 150 major tour operators attended the presentation on Belize as part of the road show. Many of them also visited the BTB booth where they received a wide range of information on the Jewel.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Julie Chung met with the U.S. Embassy Belize team
    She congratulated the Embassy staff on their efforts to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Belize and to assist American citizens in emergencies, at times under difficult circumstances. When it comes to facing challenges, PDAS Chung quoted a Belizean saying, "Plantain nu eat like rice - make do with what is available to you."

    An altar for Hanal Pixan in the village of Xaibe
    The Maya Máasewal(Yucatec Maya) of Belize continue honoring their ancestors and their loved ones who are on the spiritual world . Un altar para Janal Pixan en el pueblo de Xaibe (Corozal). Los mayas máasewales de Belize continúan honrando a sus ancestros y a sus seres queridos que están en el mundo espiritual.

    Free Medical and Dental Care on Caye Caulker
    Oct 30 & 31 at Chan's Conference Room.

    You Can Help Your School or Community
    The Department of the Environment is launching its new programmes that seek to assist primary schools and community groups/persons that are psyched and all pumped up about making a real difference.

    The Family and Diabetes Ride Out Diabetes
    Belize Diabetes Association in conjunction with Ordonez Bike Shop will be holding its 11th Annual 'Ride Out Diabetes"' Campaign. This is a 2 days ride to promote a healthy lifestyle. The ride will be from Corozal to Belize City on Saturday. November 9th. 2019 and from Santa Elena. Cayo to Belize City on Sunday. November 10th. 2019. We are asking all cyclist to participate in our 11th ride, to help create awareness on the condition diabetes, and raise much needed funds for the Belize Diabetes Association.

    Corozal House of Culture Card Design Contest
    Enter our Christmas card design competition and get a chance to win $500 towards your school fees!! Bring your entries to Corozal House by November 21st!!

    Corozal Football Table of Standing for Week 7
    Please support our Corozal footbalers. Keep following current Football Statistics on the Corozal Daily. Please see below Table of Standing for Week 7. This week it marked the closing of round 1. Congratulations to all Top ranking clubs.

    Notice to Vessel Owners in Corozal
    The Belize Port Authority will be conducting registration and licensing of vessels for the year 2020 at the Corozal Town Hall. Schedule is as follows for: Corozal Town, Consejo Village and Surrounding Areas. Date: November 26th, 2019, Inspection Area: Town Pier, Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Important Notice: Proof of Captains and Vessel Owners address must be submitted along with other required documents in order to update the license and registration information. Contact number 222-5666

    Garifuna Concert on Nov. 18th and a Garifuna Fair on the 19th!
    In honor of Garifuna Settlement Day, Lerisi Garifunaduau Restaurant in Belize city will be celebrating by hosting a Garifuna Concert on Nov. 18th and a Garifuna Fair on the 19th! As a sponsor, the BTB encourages everyone to come out and enjoy the wonderful Garifuna culture at this event and honor the settlement of the Garinagu to Belize.

    Card Design Contest in San Pedro
    Enter our Christmas card design competition and get a chance to win $500 towards your school fees! Submit your entries to San Pedro House of Culture by November 21st.

    Go experience Chaya! Dinner with the Maya
    Join us for a lively evening of music and education from the Maya forest of Belize! Learn about El Pilar, the useful plants of the Maya forest, and the heroes who are managing the forest as a garden. Use your imagination to reflect on our household belongings and how differences tell a cultural story. October 31 2019 -7:00 p.m. Mexican Cultural Institute – Belize. Corner Newtown Barracks and Wilson Streets, Belize City

    HUAY POOP
    Huay poop or Uay poop: black butcher bird in whose body is the spirit of Kakasbal. He falls on his victims and takes them away forever. This being of the Mayab we refer to the Huay Poop, a sorcerer who on certain nights takes the form of a horrible and gigantic black bird, but there are also many more who claim that this evil creature is one more the transmutations of the Genius of Evil, the "Kakasbal" . Huay Poop story It happened to a pregnant woman when she saw that her brother was going to be taken by the Huay Poop, she offered him the son who was to be born a few days later, her brother was free under the faith of the pregnant woman, but the maternal love was greater and the fearful and loving mother kept her son in the old hollow of an old trunk.

    Channel 7

    Another Murder By Decapitation Near Belmopan
    This weekend saw another gruesome murder out west, just outside Belmopan. A man was decapitated, and his body and head flung in different spots in the bush off Mount Pleasant road between miles 45 and 46 on the Western Highway. The victim is 32 year old Roaring Creek resident Michael Gladden also known as "Wangsta". His remains were found yesterday morning around 8:00 - and police have been busy trying to unravel the mystery of his very cruel demise.

    Killing In A Small Village
    A man was murdered in Gales Point Manatee on Friday. Now, Gales Point is a sleepy village of only a few hundred residents, but, on Friday night, a gunman was stalking. He struck around 6:30 when 28 year old Inmar Welch left his wife at home, and went on a bike to pick up something. A gunman was lying in wait, and he fired as many as 9 times at Welch, killing him with a headshot. Police gave us more details about Welch's death earlier today.

    Online News Outlet Taken To Court For Contempt
    The landscape of the media and journalism has shifted drastically in the last 10 years or so. Nowadays, if you're under 45, you probably get a fair amount of your news from Facebook and internet messaging apps, and you may get it mere minutes after a breaking story emerges. But, these new breaking news outfits are learning fast that the rules of accurate and responsible news reporting also apply to them, and breaking these rules has consequences. Tonight, Breaking Belize News is currently facing the possibility of being found in contempt of the Court of Appeal - which is not a minor matter. A person cited for contempt risks being sent to jail, if a judge so chooses.

    From Meatpie Delivery Man to Stick Up Man?
    Belize's biggest meat pie factory was held up on Saturday evening - and police say a former delivery man is behind it. 23 year old, Joseph Richards, a former employee of Dario's Meatpies, is allegedly one of the gunmen in a home invasion at the residence above the Hyde's Lane factory on on Saturday evening. Police say that Richards and a partner, who remains at large, injured two women in the burglary.

    One Charged, One Wanted For Gentle Murder
    On Wednesday night 26 year old, Daren Gentle, the son of C.E.O of the Ministry of works Errol Gentle, was shot and killed in Orange Walk. It happened on a feeder road near A&R in Orange Walk - and looks like it was a setup. Gentle and a partner were conducting a roadside transaction when they were shot at by a man who emerged from the bushes. Gentle sustained a fatal injury while his partner escaped on foot. Tonight, police are saying that 28 year old Micheal McDougall, a resident of Belize City, is the gunman. He was charged for Gentle's murder and arraigned in the Orange Walk Magistrate's Court. Police still have other persons detained:

    Still No ID For John Doe Found In Cemetery
    The John Doe who was found murdered in the Orange Walk Cemetery yesterday has yet to be identified. And, tonight, police are still asking for your help. Last week they circulated photos of the man's tattoos in the hopes that someone would identify him. According to Police databases he doesn't match any missing person reports from anywhere in the country. He was found Thursday afternoon in a mausoleum stuffed between two tombs. A cement cross from a nearby grave had been used to bludgeon him in the head and face. Today the only new detail police could share was his apparent time of death.

    US State Dept. Official Visits to Encourage Belize Taiwan Links And Discourage China Switch
    A senior US State Department official today concluded a quick visit to Belize. Julie Chung is the State Department's Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs - and her message was all about reinforcing good relations between Belize and Taiwan. Recently, China swiped two of Taiwan's central American allies: El Salvador and Panama. And in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has also switched its allegiance to China. The Americans aren't happy with that growing Chinese influence in the region, and Deputy Assistant Secretary Chung underscored how important the Belize - Taiwan relationship is for the United States:

    What A Way! Yellow Water From BWS, Company Says Its Safe & Temporary
    BWSL is having a moment. The water coming from its Double Run plant to Belize City is discolored, it looks like a sickly yellow. But, the company says the water remains safe to drink, and to bathe and wash with, but it may discolour your clothes. Now, the odd part is that even if you live in Belize city - you may not have seen discolored water coming out of your pipes. The company says it has gotten about 200 complaints from various parts of the city. Company executives held a press conference today to say that if your water is yellow, just let it run for a minute, and it's go away: Alvan Haynes, C.E.O., B.W.S.: "The first thing is really to reassure customer and consumers, everybody the slight discoloration of the water, and sometimes, it is worse than slight; based on what we have seen is that the water is not unsafe..."

    Hattieville Suffered Saturday and Sunday Without Water
    And while Belize City had to deal with discoloration, in Hattieville this weekend it was far worse. About 3,500 residents had to go more than 24 hours without water supply - and a potion of that without electricity as well. The problem was the result of a massive lightning strike. The CEO told us what happened and what it caused: Alvan Haynes, C.E.O., B.W.S.: "With this situation in Hattieville, there was a thunderstorm and it cause damage to BEL's system..."

    Smugglers Busted With Weed and Contraband Cigarettes
    Orange Walk police charged 4 men form different parts of the country with possession of drugs with intent to supply after they were caught on Saturday night with 1.2 kilos or 2 and a half pounds of weed, and over 100 packs of contraband cigarettes. Police told us more at the bi-weekly press briefing in Belmopan. ACP Joseph Myvett: "Orange Walk police were conducting vehicular check points near the toll bridge when a red Ford 150 pickup approached the check point at the time being driven by one Nestor Chimal, 38 years old of a Corozal town address..."

    Brothers Badly Injured After Cycle Accident
    Two brothers are fortunate to be alive after a terrible motorcycle accident in Orange Walk. It happened last night at around 10:00. Artemio Yam and his little brother Jose Yam were heading to San Lazaro when Artemio lost control of the cycle. Jose was badly injured. Police told us more. ACP Joseph Myvett: "What the police know so far is that the older of the Yam's, Artemio was driving a black motorcycle towards the direction of San Lazaro village from August Pine Ridge when he seemingly lost control we believe..."

    SP Cops Found an AK
    San Pedro Police got a high-powered weapon off the streets of that island Town. Yesterday, at around 1:30 p.m., officers were conducting a joint anti-drug operation in the San Mateo area. While canvassing, they came upon a yellow plastic bag, which contained 10 live rounds of 7.62 ammunition. The officers believed that there was something else, and after thoroughly searching the area, they came upon this AK-47 assault rifle, which had a silver magazine.

    NTUCB Says Aldo's Many "Exigencies" Should Not Stop Immigration Report
    10 days ago, we showed you our interview with Senator Aldo Salazar. He's the chairman of the Senate Special Select Committee on Immigration, and since the hearings concluded in December 2017, the public has been patiently waiting for the committee to produce a final report. Chairman Salazar has told us that he has been churning away at the nearly 300 hours of transcribed testimony from all witnesses who testified. You'll remember that those witnesses had to answer uncomfortable questions about corruption within Immigration and Nationality.

    Snakebitten? Or Snake-Kissed?
    It takes a special kind of person to have a Boa Constrictor as a pet. Roaring creek resident Mark Molina better known as Markie is one of those people. Viewers may have seen this video of Markie bitten by a snake. It has been circulating on facebook with many people turning this frightening encounter into another comedic post of the week. Well, when we bumped into the snake man in Roaring Creek today, he surely had a sense of humor saying his beloved pet snake just wanted to give him a smooch. Mark "Markie" Molina, Roaring Creek Snake Man: "Well actually they were provoking him before so when I held him, he got angry and thing so I let go his head because I always try let go his head and try get him tame but he just get out of hand and manage to bite me check."

    BTV Says Goat Fishers Staged Illegal Pro-Gillnet Protest
    We've reported many times on the controversial issue of gill nets. There are many conservation-minded Belizeans who believe that the Government should ban the gill nets in Belizean waters. They say that many animals that aren't the target of the gill net fishermen get caught up in the net and die unnecessarily. Then, there are some gill net fishermen who say that this is a traditional fishing method that shouldn't be taken away from them because that is the only way they feed their families. One such group staged a protest in Belmopan last Friday, and as our colleagues from Plus TV News saw, they had some posters with eye-catching captions.

    Area Rep Outlines the Citrus Crisis Gripping Stann Creek
    10 days ago, we showed you our interview with Agriculture Minister Godwin Hulse, who briefly discussed the biggest problems facing the citrus industry in the south. The industry must recover from this year's drought, as well as citrus greening disease, which has wiped out huge acreages of crops. But, while they battle with the risks of disease and natural disaster, the Citrus Growers Association is in a crisis of its own. This farmers group is saddled with debt it can no longer service, and it is staring down the prospect of bankruptcy.

    UDP Politically Waterboarding Village Councils
    Area Rep Ferguson also took the opportunity to complain about the appointments to water boards in several villages in the Stann Creek District. Since the Village Council Elections, new water boards must be appointed in all the villages. But, according to Ferguson, Dr. Carla Barnett, the Local Government Minister of State, is attempting to stack the deck with UDP recommended persons in villages that voted for a PUP council. Here's how he explained why that shouldn't happen:

    Drug Plane In Guat With Major Artillery
    Tonight there is the report of another drug plane - but this one is in Guatemala - and it ended in bullets and gunsmoke. According to a Guatemalan news site, early Friday morning the Guatemalan Air Force's radar detected an illegal flight that had entered the country's airspace. The flight touched down in the south central portion of that country, and when the military and police arrived, they found themselves in an armed confrontation with the alleged drug traffickers. In the aftermath of the confrontation one soldier was shot and the drug traffickers escaped having abandoned their cargo, the plane and a few vehicles.

    Mr. Belize is Sculpted
    Clayton Greenidge is Mr. Belize for the third time. Mr. Belize 2019 took place on Saturday night at the Bliss center for the performing arts. It's the competition where Belize's male bodybuilders compete for the coveted title, cash, and prizes. Greenidge who was sponsored by burn box gym was deemed to have once again sculpted the best physique in the competition proving that he is indeed an elite athlete worthy of the world stage.

    Under 18 Team Football Team Made History In Regional Play
    The Belize Under 18 Football team returned to Belize late this evening after doing Belize proud in the UNCAF under 18 tournament which was played in Costa Rica. They made it to the final on Saturday where they lost to Costa Rica - earning a very respectable silver medal.

    Channel 5

    Headless Body of Michael Gladden Discovered; Several Persons Detained
    A grisly discovery was made on Sunday morning; the body of Roaring Creek resident Michael Gladden was found through a dirt road off the George Price Highway. Gladden was decapitated [...]

    Gales Point Fisherman Inmar Welch is Gunned Down
    There was also a murder in Gales Point Manatee, a community located just off the Coastal Road in the Belize District. It was the first homicide to occur over the [...]

    Michael McDougall is Charged for the Murder of Darren Gentle; Another Being Sought
    While investigations continue into the weekend murders of Inmar Welch and Michael Gladden, police say that one of two persons wanted for the murder of Darren Gentle, has been charged [...]

    Still No ID for OW Man Found Dead in Cemetery
    Last Thursday, the body of a Hispanic man was discovered between two graves in a cemetery in Orange Walk Town. The person, believed to be in his mid-twenties, had been [...]

    Dario’s Meat Pies Robbed by Trio of Armed Thieves
    Twenty-three-year-old Joseph Richards is one of three persons who police believe entered Dario’s Meat Pies on Saturday evening and robbed Nicole Perdomo of a little over thirty thousand dollars in [...]

    Court of Appeal Hauls in B.B.N. for Contempt of Court
    The Principals of Breaking Belize News an online news blog appeared before the Court of Appeal this afternoon. A contempt of court charge was brought against the online news publication [...]

    “Dirty-looking” Water is Safe to Drink – says B.W.S!
    B.W.S. says that the dirty-looking water pouring out of your pipes is safe to drink. For over a week, residents in the Belize District, including the city, have been reporting [...]

    B.W.S. Says Land Clearing Responsible for Increased Levels of Iron in Water
    So, as you heard just now, C.E.O of B.W.S. Alvan Haynes said that the water coming out of your pipes is safe to drink. He told the press today that [...]

    Manny Heredia – an Independent for Second Deputy in the U.D.P.?
    Senior Minister Manuel Heredia Junior confirms that he is running for the U.D.P.’s second deputy position. According to Heredia Junior, he made the decision just the day before applications closed [...]

    More Sewage Disposal System Coming for San Pedro
    Over the years, we have reported on different incidents of the illegal dumping of raw sewage on Ambergris Caye. It is illegal, but still happens on the number one tourist [...]

    N.T.U.C.B. Disappointed About Delayed Draft Report on Immigration Inquiry
    Two years ago, for months most Belizeans were glued to their television sets as gory details were revealed during an investigation on immigration illegalities.  Tonight, there is word from the [...]

    Vasquez Family Calls on G.O.B. Again in Wake of the Killing of Isaac Marin
    Seventeen-year-old Isaac Marin from Caye Caulker was laid to rest over the weekend. The young man was killed early last week inside his home on the island. His cousin, Jaime [...]

    Yam Brothers Injured in Non-Fatal Accident in Orange Walk
    A pair of brothers is tonight lucky to be alive after they were flung from a motorcycle over the weekend. Jose and Artemio Yam were travelling from August Pine Ridge [...]

    4 Busted with Weed and Contraband Cigarettes
    Four persons have been detained pending charges for possession of cannabis and uncustomed goods. Around ten o’clock on Saturday night, police intercepted a vehicle in Orange Walk and inside a [...]

    A Visit to the Jewel by High-level U.S. Diplomat Julie Chung
    Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Julie Chung, concluded a visit to Belize today after meeting with various government and private sector representatives, as well [...]

    Is China Pushing Predatory Lending and Debt-diplomacy?
    Amid the trade dispute between the United States and China, the world’s two largest national economies, is an enduring relationship with Belize and Taiwan.  Chung, in a brief question and [...]

    Belize Learns from Costa Rican Refugee Program
    Since 2015, over three thousand asylum seekers from neighbouring Central American countries have applied for refugee status in Belize. The number continues to grow as masses of Central Americans journey [...]

    Building Coastal Resilience Through Innovation
    Experts from the National Oceanography Center are currently in Belize carrying out critical work on the sea bed. To collect data, they are employing the Sea Worker, a thirteen-foot vessel, [...]

    Coastal Awareness Week 2019 Kicks Off
    Coastal Awareness Week 2019 got underway today as the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute made its media rounds across Belize City.  The weeklong activities will include a trivia competition [...]

    C.G.A.’s Financial Woes Continues
    At least six staff members of the Citrus Growers Association did not report to work today and say they will not do so until they receive their salaries, which is [...]

    P.U.P. Outrage over Water Board Appointments
    The Stann Creek Area Representative also spoke about the appointment of water board members across villages in Belize. The appointment of new water board members would normally proceed after the [...]

    LOVE FM

    PDAS Julie Chung visits Belize for the first time
    Julie Chung, the US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, in the Department of State, has ended her first visit to Belize.

    BWS says discolored water safe to drink
    Over the past few weeks, Belize City residents have been noticing a discoloration in their pipe water.

    Miachael Gladden murdered and decapitated
    Police are investigating the gruesome murder of 32-year-old, Michael Gladden from Roaring Creek Village, Cayo District. On October 27, at around am police a pool of blood on the roadside between miles 45 and 46 on the George Price Highway.

    Hattieville without water for over a day
    Belize Water Services (BWS) also had another issue to discuss at the press conference. This past weekend, Hattieville residents were without water for over a day.

    Area Rep for Stann Creek West discusses issues concerning residents
    Area Representative for Stann Creek West, Rodwell Ferguson, has raised some concerns that he has observed in his constituency.

    Man shot to death in Gales Point Manatee
    The first murder of the weekend occurred around 6pm on Friday night. 28-year-old Inmar Welch was shot to death in Gales Point Manatee.

    NTUCB calls on the Government of Belize for Senate Report
    It has now been almost two years since hearings regarding the Auditor General’s Report on Immigration and Nationality were conducted. The NTUCB issued a press release today, regarding their disappointment at quote “the lame excuses made by Senator Aldo Salazar regarding the status of the Special Senate Select Committee’s Report.”

    Two men injured after motorcycle accident
    Two men are left injured following a motorcycle accident in San Lazaro Village, Orange Walk District. According to police reports, the two men were travelling on the road when the driver lost control and ran into a tree.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Man found dead in a cemetery still unidentified
    Orange Walk police are yet to identify a body found in the cemetery on the […]

    “Latest violent incident with mental patient underscores need for upgrade of mental health services,” says Vasquez family
    The family of the late Nestor Vasquez Jr., who lost their loved one following a […]

    Joseph Richards charged for aggravated burglary at Darios Meat Pies
    Belize City police have arrested and charged Joseph Richards, 23, with aggravated burglary. It is […]

    “Upcoming trade mission an opportunity for Belizean businesses,” says Chamberlain Consulting
    In November, 10 companies from Barbados will come to Belize on a trade mission; an event […]

    Man charged for murder of Darren Gentle
    Michael McDougall, 28, has been charged with the murder of Darren Gentle. Police say that one […]

    Under-18 Jaguars beaten in final, to be honored on return home
    This evening, the Ministry of Sports, National Sports Council and Football Federation of Belize will […]

    Belize Emergency Response personnel receive certified training from PAHO
    Belizean first responders from the Ministry of Health, Belize Emergency Response Team (BERT), Southern emergency […]

    Police: Michael Gladden beheaded “over some female”
    Michael Gladden, 31, is the latest person to be decapitated near Belmopan, Cayo. Over the […]

    Dr. Candice Pitts hosted Family Fun Day in Mesopotamia
    Over the weekend, Belize City Councilor and PUP Mesopotamia standard bearer, Dr. Candice Pitts, hosted […]

    Two men alive after unfortunate accident
    Two men are lucky to be alive after they were involved in a very unfortunate […]

    Verdes return to summit as Bandits lose unbeaten status in exciting weekend
    A first slip-up of the season for the Belmopan Bandits has handed control of the […]

    San Antonio Village Council hosting meeting for villagers over waterboard issue
    Last week, BBN reported of a ‘water board’ situation at the village of San Antonio, […]

    Blogs

    The Mennonites of Belize
    While the melting pot of Belize is home to a variety of different and distinct cultures, its Mennonites are certainly one of the more striking members present. The story of how this religious community of Christians came to live in a country like Belize is a lengthy and curious tale. The majority of modern Mennonites can be traced back to a denomination of Christianity established in West Prussia, meaning its roots go as far back as the 18th Century. At this point in time, the region was considered part of the Russian Empire; as a consequence of this, Belize’s Mennonites are called “Russian Mennonites,” despite their native tongue being known as Plautdietsch, a tongue connected to the German and Dutch languages and commonly referred to as “low German.”

    The Chinese of Belize
    Belize’s cultural richness includes Chinese individuals. Despite their unique appearance, Belize’s Chinese endure a variety of mistakes and misunderstandings that can be traced back to unfamiliarity with China’s people, history and society. While China is home to over a billion people who speak more than 12 different languages and different indigenous groups, most Belizeans think of China as a nation with one society and one language. Belize’s Chinese populace is easily recognized by its straight black hair, folded eyes and other trademark tells of Asian ancestry. Many of the first Chinese immigrants have descendants that blend their own familial traits with other Belizean ethnicities.

    Belize Bucket List
    elize’s lush jungle, pristine barrier reef, ancient Maya cities, rich culture, and natural beauty make it the perfect playground. Its diverse terrain results in a guaranteed destination for some fun, suitable for all levels for endeavors. Discover nature trails that lead you to beautiful hidden waterfalls, get your heart racing as you rappel down gushing cascades, or simply spend the day river tubing in crystal clear waters. There are countless “off the beaten paths” waiting to be explored. For more adventures, the Belize Barrier Reef has plenty to offer. Therefore, we have complied a Bucket List for your time in Belize.

    International Sourcesizz

    Developers, Retirees and Snowbirds Are Discovering Belize
    Two years ago, Chris Maynard was the harried owner of a restaurant in Toronto, up to his eyeballs in work and exasperated by relentless city regulations. When a code enforcement officer told him to remove a sandwich-board menu from the sidewalk, he was ready to call it quits. Just then, he received a postcard from his girlfriend, Brandie Delouche, who was visiting Belize, the sun-dappled former British colony in Central America, with a friend. “She asked me if I could see myself living there,” recalled Mr. Maynard, a 49-year-old former member of Canada’s national soccer team. “I looked at the TV and there was six feet of snow in New Brunswick. So I put the restaurant up for sale, sold the house in four days and packed everything into our Jeep. I’d never been to Belize, but I trusted her.”

    First Pres, ACT mission team going to Belize
    First Presbyterian Church in Norwalk is partnering with Answering the Call Together (ACT) for a mission trip to Belize. The Rev. James Hodsden said the objective of the trip is not about “rescuing,” but working with the people in Belize and “go where God wants us to go.” During the February trip, the team of 30 people will visit hospice facilities, people’s homes and prisons, work with children and do construction projects.

    Videos

  • BELIZE TOUR, 11min.

  • PLB Opening Season | Wagiya FC vs Bandits SC | Live at The Carl Ramos Stadium, Dangriga, 2.5hr.

  • Belize Bucket List, 3min.

  • Belize, 4min. Wild ride through the country!

  • Spearfishing for Snappers Under Big Peer (Belize), 9min. In this video we go spearfishing for snappers in some pretty murky water. We catch some fish and most importantly have fun.

  • Snorkeling The Belize Barrier Reef, 2.5min. Highlights from snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef in June 2019! In this video we visit Hol Chan Marine Reserve + Shark Ray Alley and swim with Nurse Sharks, Sea Turtles, and Spotted Eagle Rays.

  • Belize Adventures 2019, 10min. This video is our family vacation to Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort in Hopkins, Belize.

  • ACES - Crocodile Rescue and Conservation in Belize, 8.5min. We are so excited to release a video that has been a long time in the making! In February of 2018, we had the pleasure of meeting film maker, David Ozier. He came to Belize on his own dollar with donated equipment to film American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) in action and show the world what we do. We give you our most recent profile video featuring the Chris Summers and Christina Manzi, two conservationists brought together through a love for crocs.

  • Accion Deportiva, 40min.

  • Press Conference | U18 UNCAF Sub Champs!! | From The Marion Jones Sporting Complex | Belize City, 35min.

  • Heroes Have Arrived | UNCAF Sub Champs!!, 15min. Live From Philip Goldson Intl. Airport

    October 28, 2019


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    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Halloween Celebration at the Holiday Hotel
    Congratulations to Benjamin Vasquez for claiming the top prize (with most Creative Costume) at this year's Halloween Celebration held on Saturday, October 26th at the Holiday Hotel. The anticipated annual Halloween party was nothing short of spectacular, featuring islanders dressed in different elaborately creative costumes!

    CELEBRITY SPOTTING
    The popular Techno Cumbia singer from Peru, Rossy War, is back on La Isla Bonita! She is taking a few days off, after participating at the 3rd Annual President's Endowment Fund fete of the University of Belize on Saturday, October 26th. Held at the Muffles Junior College, Orange Walk Town, all proceeds of the event went toward student scholarships. Rossy shared the stage with Belizean bands Super Furia Band and Gilharry 7 Band. The renown singer of hits like 'Que te perdone Dios,' and 'Como un dulce Poema,' arrived to Ambergris Caye on Sunday, October 27th, was welcomed by the Arceo family along with enthusiastic fans.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    Tecuani and the Duende Screening in Belmopan
    We have received many requests for a Belmopan screening of Tecuani and the Duende - The Voice of the Jaguar, Belize's first animated movie short. SO we are delighted to announce a screening at none other than the JAGUAR auditorium at University of Belize. We are partnering here with the UB History Club and Inno'on La-Oh Maya Association for this screening.

    You Can Help your School or Community
    The Department of the Environment is launching its new programmes that seek to assist primary schools and community groups/persons that are psyched and all pumped up about making a real difference...Apply today using the Request for Assistance Form found here.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Julie Chung met today with Japanese Ambassador Hiroyuki Kubota
    We welcome Japan's decision to open their Embassy in Belize. We look forward to working with our Japanese friends to promote trade, democracy, and transparency in Belize.

    Channel 5

    Accident near Orange Walk
    Two men were seriously injured following a road traffic accident earlier tonight in the Orange Walk District. Jose and Artemio Yam were on a motorcycle when they reported lost control and crashed into a guardrail in San Lazaro Village. The men were taken to the hospital for urgent medical attention. There are reports of another accident in Blue Creek Village involving a red pickup truck. The driver was taken to the Northern Regional Hospital for treatment.

    Decapitated body found this morning in the Cayo District
    Reports are that the body was found between miles forty five abs forty six on the George Price Highway on the outskirts of Belmopan.

    The Reporter

    Body Found Near Belmopan Is Roaring Creek Man
    We have received reports that the person whose decapitated body was discovered this morning near Belmopan is that of Roaring Creek resident, Michael “Wangsta” Gladden.

    Vehicle Runs Into River in Cayo @ San Ignacio Bridge
    The Reporter has received reports that a vehicle slipped off the wooden bridge that connects Santa Elena with San Ignacio and that heavy duty equipment is now trying to salvage the vehicle.

    LOVE FM

    ACCIDENTS IN CAYO
    A Toyota Rav4 travelling from San Ignacio to Benque ran off the road shortly before 5:00 this morning. The incident happened across the Huayon Supermarket in San Jose, Succotz, Cayo District. Another car accident occurred on the outskirts of Benque Viejo Del Carmen, Cayo District. A dark grey Toyota Matrix was traveling from from Benque to San Ignacio when the driver lost control and drove into the dry Creek. The incident occurred across Alex Supermarket The driver was not injured during the accident.

    BODY FOUND
    Love News has received information of a body found sometime this morning between miles 45 and 46 on the George Price Highway. We understand that authorities are at the scene.

    ARMED ROBBERY
    Love News has received reports that Dario's Meat pie Manager, Nicole Perdomo, was robbed just a few moments ago. According to reports Perdomo was with her mother on the second floor of the establishment when two dark males, one armed, approached them and robbed $12,000 and $8,000 USD. The men then fled the scene running off towards Barrack Road. Perdomo did sustain some injuries.

    FREAK ACCIDENT IN THE CITY
    Love News has received information of two women who fell off a building church street near a barber shop. We understand that the two women were on the veranda of the upper flat of the two story building when it reportedly caved in. They have been taken to the Karl Huesner Memorial Hospital.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Verdes return to top spot as Bandits lose undefeated status in exciting weekend of football
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    Clayton Greenidge wins third Mr. Belize Championship
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    British soldiers came to Belize for special jungle training
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    Belize City Council 2019 champs of Firms Basketball League
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    Decapitated body found in the West
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    Vehicle slips off low lying wooden bridge in San Ignacio/ Santa Elena
    Reports to BBN is that a vehicle slipped and overturned off the low lying wooden bridge that connects San Ignacio and Santa Elena early this morning.

    Blogs

    A Google Earth Update and MAN Has This Island Changed in 3 Years!
    But from massive projects on the island like La Sirene at the southern tip to the quarry up north…you don’t need to be a nuclear cartographer (that might be a made-up career) to see that a TON is going on. Here are a few things I’ve noticed. You can play around with Google Earth – I used Pro – which is an easy download. It’s fun to be a spy guy. I took some screen shots – I wish I could give you some awesome links but I’m very low level tech. Here’s the quarry – where you see all those BIG TRUCKS coming from at about 8.5 miles north Ambergris Caye. You can also see the large lot that was cleared in the mangroves for the potential – planned – (alleged?) high school that will be built up there. And the future area of San Pedro Norte. The areas mined for fill have left deep clear lakes.

    Useful Information about Belize
    You’ll often hear Belize referred to as “The Jewel”, “The Best of Both Worlds”, “A Cultural Melting Pot”, or “Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret”. While the references are certainly cliché, they are nothing short of true. Belize is ethnically, culturally, and ecologically diverse. Our population is small but our natural bounty is great! Belize not only possesses white sand beaches and island breezes, but also boasts the only Jaguar Reserve in the world, The Second Largest Barrier Reef in the world, is the only English speaking country in Central America, and is home to many Ancient Maya archeological sites – just to name a few treasures.

    Tipping in Belize
    Belize is fascinating for its hidden nature and its untouched diver’s paradise. A country with a beautiful mix of cultures and a welcoming attraction for tourists, expatriates, for retirees and even honeymooners. If you are planning on coming to Belize there are some things about tipping that you need to know. What is the standard percentage for tipping? Or are there situations when you should tip more – or less? These are common questions from foreign visitors, so here’s a basic guide to help you to understand how to tip in Belize.

    International Sourcesizz

    A world of Rotary community work from Edmonton couple
    An Edmonton couple who sent four ambulances and a fire truck off to help third-world Belize communities has just heard back about how busy two of the vehicles have been. “Two babies were born in one of the two ambulances we know went into service this month,” said realtor Sandra Bayrock, who organized the shipment of ambulances with chiropractor husband Dr. Roman Bayrock and fellow Edmonton’s Riverview Rotary Club members. “Successful CPR was also carried out during the ambulance’s first 17 calls while patients were being taken to hospital in the southern community of Dangriga.”

    Divali Queen Show
    THIS year, the National Council for Indian Culture (NCIC) opted to do an international Divali Queen show with contestants representing six countries. Delegates from TT, Jamaica, Suriname, Guyana, Canada and Belize participated in the competition. In previous years, more than one local girl was allowed to participate, however, this year there was only one girl for each of the six countries. The competition was held at the Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas, on Friday night.

    Videos

  • Belize Company Estate Limited Auto Show @ Riverside Tavern, 5min.

  • Rossy War at Secret Beach..., 1/2min. after feeling the Belizean Sea breeze she even sang four songs for patrons at the establishment. Impromptu but the one-man band defended himself! What an unexpected treat... a Sunday well spent with friends!

  • Rossy War at Secret Beach..., 1.5min.

  • Whale shark in Belize, 1min.

  • Permit Alley And Seasons On The Fly, 21min. Follow us to Tarpon Caye Lodge off the Southern Coast of Belize for some of the best Permit and Tarpon fishing in the world. This show is full of both species and amazing footage of those fish in their native surroundings.

  • Hughes Honeymoon in Belize, 13min. Jungle adventures through Belize! Hikes, limestone caves, climbing and jumping off waterfalls in caves, tubing down the rivers, monkeys and the Tikal Ancient Ruins in Guatemala! We also enjoyed the last part of our trip scuba diving around the island of St. George's Caye and snorkeling with turtles! Such an amazing, beautiful honeymoon full of adventure and memories we will always remember!

  • ALTUN HA MAYA RUINS BELIZE SCHOOL TRIP, 9min.

  • Belize snorkeling with nurse sharks, 2.5min.

  • Ambergris Caye, Belize | San Pedro 2019 | Travel, 22min.

  • BELIZE NATIONAL BEACH CRUISER CYCLING CLASSIC!, 12min. The Belize 19th. of November Cycling Classic will be held on Tuesday November 19, 2019 in Punta Gorda during Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations in Belize.

  • Placencia Belize Boardwalk, 3min. Placencia is a delightful beach and fishing town at the end of a 16-mile-long peninsula in southeastern Belize. It is home to the world’s narrowest main street. It is 4,071 feet long and 4 feet wide and according to the Guinness Book of World Records, is the narrowest main street in the world. The Placencia Boardwalk is the hub of all the activity, with art galleries, restaurants, bars, beaches and quaint and colorful homes.

  • Honeymoon in Belize, 9.5min. Destination Diez Honeymoons in the beautiful Hopkins Village, Belize. Highlights of our honeymoon included zip lining through the forest, cave tubing through Xibalba, snorkeling at Coco Plum Island and the Southern Barrier Reef and hiking the Ancient Mayan Ruins Xunantunich!

  • Placencia Village and other Belize Adventures, 7min. A little video from our day walking around Placencia Village, as well as some other adventures.

  • White-lipped Peccary at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize, 3.5min. There are at least 43 White-lipped Peccary, aka "Warrie", in this clip. I missed a few crossing the Western Trail at Cockscomb, not far from South Stann Creek. Interesting behaviors, sounds and tusk clacking. (A few other visitors came by while I was filming, hence the funny camera sounds.) Filmed February 22, 2011 around 9am. I have only seen White-lipped Peccary one other time, about six years ago in Mayflower Bocawina National Park, not far from CBWS. That too was a very large group but they were traveling in a "V" formation along through the forest with the young inside the "V". It is rare to be able to see these animals.

    October 27, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    2019 Hanal Pixan
    The Corozal House of Culture planned the 2019 Hanal Pixan on Saturday, October 26th, 2019. The event was held at the Corozal Central Park at 7pm. Several booths showcased their Hanal Pixan Altar booths at the Corozal Central Park. Locals by then had filled the chairs that wherein the park. Some were even standing before 7pm to witness this lovely Maya event. An open ceremony was held during the Show by the TOONE Masehualoon, promoting the Maya Culture in the Northern District of Corozal, National Anthem in Maya, showcasing the Maya Dancing, Brief history about the Hanal Pixan, and the First ever, Female's playing the Maya Ball Game.

    Corozal All Stars U17 Female District Selection
    Congratulations to Corozal All Stars U17 Female District Selection. Yes, yes we are in the finals. We ranked 1st in the FFB Interdistrict Competition Global Table of Standing. Here we come Finals. Corozal vs Toledo. It all happens at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at 1:00pm.

    Forest Bathing • Forest Therapy • Shinrin Yoku
    The Forest is the Therapist. Your guide opens the doors... Available from December 2019 to April 2020 with Rosita Arvigo in San Ignacio, Cayo

    Belize: Social Resilience in an Age of Climate Change, Disasters
    Eleven communities in Southern Belize now have data on how climate change and disasters could impact their livelihood after a week-long workshop organised by the Community Disaster Risk Reduction Fund (CDDRF). A main conclusion of the workshop was expressed by CDDRF Project Manager Claudia James who said, “It is pressing and urgent for us to strengthen our social resilience, financial resilience and our environmental resilience in order to absorb the stresses, adapt to the changes, and evolve to a desirable state that will ensure we are better prepared to respond to changes and recover quickly.” This workshop was under the Caribbean Development Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development (Belize) and the Social Development Commission (Jamaica).

    This day in history, Oct. 27, 2019
    In 1998, Hurricane Mitch cut through the western Caribbean, pummeling coastal Honduras and Belize; the storm caused several thousand deaths in Central America in the days that followed.

    Dana Reyes elected Miss Garifuna 2019-2020
    16-year-old Dana Reyes sponsored by Casa Picasso, is the newly elected Miss Garifuna 2019-2020 in San Pedro Town. She will represent the island during the National Miss Garifuna Pageant to be held in the Capital City of Belmopan on November 2, 2019!

    Belize Birding Festival Pictures
    The 2nd Annual Belize Birding Festival was held on October 19-20th, 2019 in San Ignacio, Cayo where approximately 200 guests were in attendance! The 2-day event featured presentations and workshops by 3 exceptional guest speakers: - Dr. John Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Mr. Serge Arias, CEO of Bird-watching Central America - Dr. Lee Jones, Author of Birds of Belize Additionally, participants were able to walk the exhibition floor, go birding on Saturday and Sunday morning on exclusive BBF tours, attend the evening Cocktail, network, and much more. Thank you to all our sponsors, exhibitors, participants, and presenters! Read more at the official press release here: bit.ly/2ndBBF

    Miss Universe Belize
    Ms. Destinee Arnold, BTB's and Belize's Brand Ambassador sharing the Garifuna culture

    Providing training and equipment to the newly constructed Emergency Operations Center and Disaster Relief Warehouse in Toledo District
    We were honored to participate with NEMO yesterday in a ceremony celebrating a project funded by the U.S. government to provide training and equipment to the newly constructed Emergency Operations Center and Disaster Relief Warehouse in Toledo District, valued at over $466,000 Belizean dollars. These efforts will help the Belizean government respond more quickly and effectively in the event of a hurricane or other natural disaster, and is part of our continued commitment to the safety and welfare of the people of Belize.

    Motion Drawing Workshop with Yaoling Lee
    Coming up this Saturday, November 2nd - Motion Drawing Workshop with Yaoling Lee. It's all happening at the Museum of Belize!! Call us at 223-4524 to sign up for this free art workshop!!

    Portrait Painting Workshop by Yaoling Lee!!
    Saturday at the Museum of Belize - Portrait Painting Workshop by Yaoling Lee!! Our next workshop is next Saturday, November 2nd, where Yaoling will be sharing her skills in Motion Drawing. There is still space for that workshop, so call us to sign up today!!

    To'one Masehualo'on, a NGO Yucatec Maya group
    These retired educators are in their element when it's time to convert any space into an outdoor classroom and promote and preserve the Yucatec Maya Culture. Thank you Roy Rodriguez Sr and Faustino Yam. Thank you Mr Camilo Pop for beautiful music. Thank you Anthropology student Christy Valdez for the beautiful pics. Thank professor Lorena Coba. We Enjoyed Our Time With You AND Your Lovely students at Luisville culture day 2019. Corozal district, Belize Thank you Mr Everaldo Puck for sharing your beautiful and very rear Balche tree with us. - To'one Masehualoon NGO. Note: To'one Masehualo'on is a NGO Yucatec Maya group of Corozal district who are working hard in the preservation of our Maya history,Food, spirituality and more .

    Iggy Howells & Family (A Make A Wish adventure in Belize)
    We were happy to fly Xavier (Iggy) and his family to San Pedro as part of his Make-A-Wish trip to explore Belize. Karen Brodie Photography has captured some amazing photos of their arrival and snorkeling in Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

    Ms. Universe Belize, Destinee Arnold, Visits Ms. Sapna Budhrani, President of NICH
    Today, Ms. Universe Belize, Destinee Arnold, made a courtesy visit to Ms. Sapna Budhrani, President of the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH). The meeting was held to introduce the reigning Ms. Belize to Ms. Budhrani and discuss ways of strengthening the relationship between the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) and Ms. Universe Belize. Ms. Universe Belize expressed the appreciation for the assistance given by NICH and the Cultural Development Fund in the past and the continued support of Ms. Universe Belize.

    The Reporter

    Two Women Fall Through Varanda
    Saturday, October 26th. 2019 – – – – By Marion Ali – – – Two women have been rushed to the KHMH after they fell from the veranda on the

    Murder in Gales Point Village!
    A man was shot and killed in Gales Point, Manatee Village last night. The victim is Inmar Kareem Welch Sr., 28, a resident of that village. Information is that sometime around 6:00 p.m., Welch left his house on a bicycle to go pick up something in the village when someone shot him.

    Taiwanese Investors Look for Opportunities in Agriculture
    A delegation of 10 Taiwanese investors, some of who live in the US and Canada, spent this week touring various agricultural sites hoping they can invest in opportunities that interest them in that sector. Tracy Taegar-Panton who is the Minister of State in Investment, Trade and Commerce told reporters earlier this week that this is a step to show the Taiwanese businessmen Belize’s potential and what is available here.

    Editorial – Friday, October 25th. 2019
    A business investment organization, Portico Enterprises Limited, has advertised that it intends to build a new cruise ship port which will be based on the mainland but will have access to deep water to accommodate the largest of cruise ships.

    Man Remanded to Prison for Murdering his Father
    Norman Castillo, 38, a tour guide of a Belama Phase two address in Belize City and another man identified as Buttonwood Bay resident Earl Bowden, 47, have both been remanded to the Belize Central Prison for the murder of Corozal resident Paul Anthony Castillo, 66.

    Rocky Balboa
    By: Mike Rudon Jr. - Here’s one thing you need to know from the start. I never thought I’d write one of these columns again. And I wouldn’t have, if three of my faithful seven readers hadn’t threatened to protest. Here’s another thing you need to know. This column won’t be about boxing, or about my favourite uncle Rocky.

    Senator Mark !
    By: Major Lloyd Jones (Ret’d) - Senator Mark Lizarraga was, as usual, stellar in his presentation during the Senate debate related to the write-off of the bond for Joshua Perdomo. Senator Mark rose to national prominence in 2012, when he was elected by the business community to represent them in the Senate. The new Joint Interagency Information Security System (JIISS) is tailored to meet Belize’s needs.

    Belize Security Agencies Go High Tech
    Belmopan, October 17, 2019 Belize law enforcement and other security agencies now have a state-of-the-art, joint communications platform to share information immediately and securely to fight crime and protect our

    Two Women Fall Through Varanda
    Two women have been rushed to the KHMH after they fell from the veranda on the upper flat of an old wooden structure which houses a barber shop on Church Street in Belize City.

    Brackett Goes After ‘Pharmaceutical Cartel’
    Activist Geovanni Brackett sounded the alarm this week on an issue which has affected many Belizeans, specifically changes in the pharmaceutical industry due to legislation which has caused a flooding of generic medication into Belize from official suppliers making it difficult for some patients to access their usual medications and certain other brand-name medical products.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Armed robbers target Dario’s Meat Pies
    Reports reaching our newsroom are that armed robbers ambushed the manager of Dario’s Meat pies this evening as she exited the establishment. The men reportedly took manager, Ofelia Perdomo upstairs to the home at gunpoint.

    Quality Poultry Products opens expanded distribution center on Ambergris Caye
    Islanders of Ambergris Caye will now be able to get “Fu Wi Chikin” – and eggs, turkeys and other groceries – fresh from the mainland base of Quality Poultry Products at its newly expanded offices on Mangrove Drive, opened this morning.

    United Democratic Party Deputy Leader candidate Manuel Heredia says he wants to “give back to party”
    Belize Rural South area representative Manuel Heredia Jr. is throwing his hat in the ring for second deputy party leader, taking on Belize Rural Central representative Beverly Williams. Heredia has three terms in Government and years of experience compared to Williams but neither has held office in the party before.

    Woman charged for possession of drugs
    Kenya Brown, 24, was arrested and charged for the offense of possession of controlled drugs with the intent to supply another. Police report indicate that around 1:30 a.m. yesterday, they noticed a woman behaving in a disorderly manner.

    Tracy Panton thought about being leader of UDP
    UDP Albert Area Representative, Tracy Panton, stirred rumblings in the UDP when she applied to become its deputy party leader. However, those rumblings became louder following a meeting two days ago with the women of the UDP. That is because she publicly stated that she “gave thought” to the idea of running for leader of the UDP.

    Police: Inmar Welch killed while doing an errand
    Last night we reported that a man was murdered in Gales Point Village. He has been identified as Inmar Welch, 28. According to a police report, sometime around 6 o’clock he had left home on a bicycle to run an errand. That was when he came under gunfire.

    Kidney Association hosting annual gala
    Tonight, the Kidney Association of Belize (KAB) in collaboration with the Belize Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (BELIFA) is hosting its annual Red Night Gala. The event, which is one of the main fundraising efforts for the KAB, will be held at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza and will run from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

    Shyne Barrow increases employment in Mesopotamia
    Today, 18 participants of the Mesopotamia Job Center received their certificates of completion as well as new jobs. We spoke to UDP Standard Bearer, Shyne Barrow, about his employment push and what this means for the people in his constituency.

    Water board fiasco in San Antonio, Cayo
    In San Antonio Village, Cayo District, the UDP lost the village council elections to the PUP in July of this year. Now the PUP council is seeking the public’s assistance to install its new water board. According to a statement issued by the village council, the current area representative, Rene Montero has submitted the names of the remaining 5 members of his choice without consultation of the villagers or village council.

    Matt and Celine go bald for a cause! Cancer walk 2019
    The San Ignacio Cancer Society hosted its annual cancer walk fundraiser this morning. The society received overwhelming support from the Cayo community and residents Matthew Preston and Celine Neal went bald as part of their unique GoFundme fundraiser.

    Belize to host Biennial Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers
    The Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers (CAJO) will be holding its 6th Biennial Conference in Belize at the end of the month. The three-day event will be held at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel from October 31st to November 2nd, under the theme “Judicial Integrity – The Pathway to Public Trust and Confidence”.

    Official list of names issued for UDP National Executive applicants
    Yesterday, the United Democratic Party released the official list of applicants for the five vacant positions on the party’s National Executive. The list as follows: For Party Leader, Patrick Faber and John Saldivar; First Deputy Leader, Hugo Patt and Tracy Panton; Second Deputy Leader, Manuel Heredia and Beverly Williams...

    Blogs

    Fry Jacks – A Must-Have when in Belize!
    Breakfast in Belize is not for those who have a small appetite. A true Belizean breakfast consists of a full home-style spread. A feast! Sure there’s the standard toast or tortillas, but one of the must-haves, when you’re in Belize, is the famous fry jacks. It is delicious soft pieces of fried flour dough in the shape of triangles or half-moons. It can be whipped up in less than thirty minutes, and it surely hits the spot! The delightful puffy treat is perfectly paired with a side of eggs (scrambled, sunny side up, over easy, any way you want it!), refried beans, sausage or bacon, and cheese. Ever heard of stuffed fry jacks? Yup, this scrumptious delicacy can be filled with the above making it easier to eat when you’re on the go. Fry jacks can also be eaten in a more traditional way, such as adding honey, jelly, jam, or powdered sugar.

    Destinations in Belize
    Belize is a small country approximately 8,867 square miles in size. It is bordered on the northwest by Mexico, on the east by the Caribbean Sea, and on the south and west by Guatemala. Considered the Caribbean and Central American is like a destination like no other. Belize is categorised by different regions, all offering something unique !

    International Sourcesizz

    England stuns New Zealand to book its place in the Rugby World Cup final
    England put on one of the great Rugby World Cup performances to stun two-time defending champion New Zealand 19-7 and book its place in the final for the first time since 2007. From the very first whistle, those in white proved too strong, too fast and too skillful as the All Blacks wilted under 80 minutes of intense, brutal England pressure. It was the first time England had ever beaten New Zealand in a World Cup match, ending the All Blacks' record 18-match winning streak in the competition, a run stretching back to 2011. The winner of Sunday's second semifinal between Wales and South Africa awaits England in the final.

    A football fairy tale like no other: Caribbean stakeholders revel in Nations League dream
    By all indications, football appears poised to be the consuming passion of Caribbean people on the sporting front. No doubt, there are competing interests like cricket and track and field, but the globe's most popular sport is making a noisy comeback through the game-changing Concacaf Nations League (CNL) and other foundational programmes. Grenada lead Group A of League B on 10 points after four matches. Other competing teams are St Kitts and Nevis, Belize and French Guiana. The Spice Boys' dream run so far, confirms Joseph, is due mainly to “consistency” by the players, and is a course that the team intends to stay on.

    DIVERS CAN HELP COMBAT WHITE SYNDROME
    Divers on the world’s second-biggest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican in the western Caribbean, are being asked to help combat a mysterious disease known as White Syndrome that’s been ravaging coral from Mexico to Honduras. The plea comes from charity Sustainable Travel International (STI). It has launched a social-media campaign for divers, snorkellers and other visitors to share photographs taken while exploring reef sites. Participating divers are given guidance on looking out for coral colonies displaying white bands, spots or lesions. They are asked to post photographs to Instagram using the #SupportNEMO hashtag, adding the date and location (GPS co-ordinates or dive site). They are also encouraged to share photos of marine pollution and wildlife.

    Videos

  • Sperm whale sighting today on our return home from the Great Blue Hole, 1/2min. Our team and guests got lucky to be near them as they are very rare sightings and they would only be migrating through our Belizean waters.

  • Channel 5 Obituaries - Myrtle Castilla Casasola Jones, 1min.

  • Las Cuevas, Belize - smaller cave, 1min. This is one of the smaller caves located along a hiking trail in the area of the Las Cuevas Research Station and Explorers Lodge

  • A Short Drive Near Chan Chich Lodge, Belize, 3min. A short drive through one of the premier birding and wildlife areas in Central America - Chan Chich Lodge and the Gallon Jug lands in northwestern Belize. This segment is from Chan Chich Lodge to the suspension bridge over Little Chan chich Creek, and beyond. Filmed in February, 2011

  • Laguna Seca Road - Gallon Jug, Belize, 3.5min. Another short drive near Chan Chich Lodge, this one from Laguna Seca to the main road to Chan Chich Lodge. Laguna Seca is one of my favorite spots in Belize for wildlife and the sounds of the night. Last visit, I encountered a Tapir on a trail near the laguna in the very early morning. I don't know who was more startled... I saw my first ever Purple Gallinule at waters edge the previous evening.

  • Super sale downtown Belize City, 7min. A Belize City Council sponsored "Super Sale" Saturday on Albert Street on Saturday October 26, 2019 in conjunction with many businesses who put up their articles for the public to engage in.

  • San Pedro Belize, 7min.

  • NO Game | SP Pirates FC vs FF Valley Pride FC, 30min.

  • Miss Universe Belize getting a taste of the Garifuna Culture, 8.5min.

  • Flying to San Pedro Island Belize, 1min. It’s more than just a flight, it’s an experience!

    October 26, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    2019 Miss Garifuna San Pedro contestants officially sashed at Casa Picasso
    As the 2019 Miss Garifuna San Pedro pageant approaches, the four lovely contestants vying for the title were officially sashed during a dinner ceremony at Casa Picasso on Wednesday, October 24th. This year’s contestants include: 15-year-old Diamond Virez sponsored by Victoria House, 14-year-old Malica Avila sponsored by Caribena Enterprises, 16-year-old Dana Reyes, sponsored by Casa Picasso and 13-year-old Keneisha Avila sponsored by Xanadu Island Resort.

    UDP sees two women vying for a leadership position
    For the first time, the United Democratic Party (UDP) has two well-known women from their party vying for leadership positions; Honorable Tracy Taegar-Panton will bid for First Deputy Party Leader and Honourable Beverly Williams will bid to be the 2nd Deputy Party Leader of the UDP. On Monday, October 21st Honorable Taegar-Panton announced to the media that she had visited the UDP headquarters to submit her name as a candidate for Deputy Leader of the UDP. Taegar-Panton is Albert Area (Belize City) Representative and Minister of State in the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Commerce, and Economic Development and has decided to run for the position when the party calls its National Convention in February 2020.

    Jayme Marin charged for the stabbing death of Isaac Marin on Caye Caulker
    Police formally arrested and charged 28-year-old Jayme Marin for the stabbing death of his cousin, 17-year-old Isaac Isaih Marin and the stabbing of 25-year-old Carlos Marin. Jayme, who is allegedly mentally challenged, was charged with the crime of Murder, Attempt Murder, Use of Deadly Means of Harm and Grievious Harm. No plea was taken when he appeared at the Belize City Magistrate Court on Thursday, October 24th, and was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until his next court trial on January 8, 2020.

    Successful 2nd Annual Belize Birding Festival
    The Cayo district welcomed over two-hundred participants at the 2nd Annual Belize Birding Festival 2019, this past weekend October 19th and 20th at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. The two-day festival included presentations, panel discussion, workshops, birding tours, vendor booths, and an evening cocktail. . This festival welcomes local and international birders and wildlife enthusiasts to enhance their appreciation of Belize’s spectacular natural habitat were over 500 bird species have been recorded. Belize continues to grow as exciting birding destination that hosted over 30,000 birding enthusiasts in 2018 (BTB, 2019).

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    BELIZE FISHING REPORT: OCTOBER 13, 2019 THROUGH OCTOBER 20, 2019
    Overall, it was a great week on the water with a lot of fish to hand for our anglers. The weather this month has been great. We did have a storm that passed over on Tuesday but moved through quickly, opening back up to sunny skies and lighter winds on Wednesday. All anglers enjoyed hooking and landed numerous Bonefish. The anglers that pursued permit had positive results with lots of opportunities and multiple permit to hand.

    SCA wins 2019 Belize City High School Female Volleyball Championship
    In volleyball news, SCA became the 2019 Belize City High School Female Champions once again. District competition is next. They will be hard to beat so you better get ready teams from the districts. In other news, in a hotly contested game, SJC narrowly defeated BHS in a hard fought five sets last night to become the Belize City Champions as well.

    Ch'ookob - Holy Food
    Ch'ookob is blessed food by a H-men(Maya Priest) offered to Yuumstil(God), Yuum Chaak and U YuumBaalamo'ob to receive blessings to call for rain to start planting. This food is known in Yucatec Maya as Ch'ookob or sopas made for the Ch'a Cháak in San Jose(Orange walk). The younger generation of Maya Maasewal mostly speak in the Spanish language. While the elders continue speaking their Yucatec Maya language. During this ritual the prayers are done entirely in Yucatec Maya language .

    Traditional Maya altar
    Between the Maya Maasewal of San Pablo and San Jose (Orange walk) their Maya spirituality is a important part of their lives . This traditional Maya altar is for the Yucatec Maya ritual known as Ch'a Cháak in San Jose . During this tradition the Maya Maasewal ask Yuumstil (God),Yuum Chaak(Rain) and the U YuumBaalamo'ob for blessings

    Governments of Belize and The Republic of China (Taiwan) Collaborate on Belize Urban Resilience and Disaster Prevention Project
    In April 2019, the Governments of Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan) held an agreement signing ceremony for a project entitled Belize Urban Resilience and Disaster Prevention. Since then the project has been well underway. The first phase of implementation commenced with the review and selection of priority sites for the installation of two water regime monitoring stations and the early warning system technology. These locations were selected according to stakeholder consultation and field surveys that were conducted in July and early September, respectively.

    Foldable Grocery Bag Design Competition
    Are you a designer? If the answer is "You bet!!", then this competition is for you. Visit www.doe.gov.bz for the rules.

    U18 Jaguars Defeat El Salvador
    Today the Jaguars made history again and have won themselves a spot to the finals tomorrow! Final score Belize 5-4 El Salvador! Let's hear it for the U18 Jaguars! You made us proud! Congratulations team!

    Belize Reporting Decline In Dengue Fever Cases
    Health authorities are reporting a decline in the number of dengue fever cases after the figure had has risen to more than 2,700 cases last month. While the Director of Health Services Dr Marvin Manzanero did not disclose the present number of cases said “last week’s figure is the lowest for the last eight weeks. “So the numbers continue to go down. It peaked three to four weeks ago in terms of total numbers, but with the rainy season now fully upon us, we are going to remain vigilant in terms of any potential increase in the number of cases,” he added.

    INDONESIA – LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN (INA – LATAMCAR) BUSINESS FORUM
    As part of its efforts to increase trade and investment linkages between Indonesia and Latin America and the Caribbean, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted its first Indonesia Latin America and the Caribbean (INA – LAC) Business Forum held in Tangerang, Indonesia, on October 14th – 15th, 2019. The event consisted of more than two-hundred representatives from both regions who convened to discuss salient issues, such as geographical distance, and recommendations affecting the level of trade and investment between Indonesia and the LAC region.

    BelizeIFF 2019 PROGRAM
    We know you've been waiting for the FILM SCHEDULE. it's coming, its coming.. But here is a look at BelizeIFF 2019 PROGRAM in a glance.

    Opening Night - BelizeIFF 2019
    Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at 6 PM – 8 PM, Bliss Center for Performing Arts Belize City, Hosted by BELIZE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

    Multicultural Multilingual Poetry and Urage Night Oct. 31
    Our Yucatec Maya (Máasewal) culture will be present for this event . Featuring Maya elder Felicita Cantun (To Creek Orange walk) for the Multicultural Multilingual Poetry and Uraga Night.

    The Yucatec Maya culture present in the premiere of Tecuani and the Duende
    Carmen Carrillo a Yucatec Maya of San Jose Palmer(OW) gave a story of the Tata Duende(Nukux Tat) . Andy Chuc a Yucatec Maya of San Pablo(OW) gave the spiritual importance of the Tata Duende (Nukux Tat) for the Maya .

    2nd Annual Rocktober Halloween Social
    Hosted by Wayo's Beach Bar, Thursday, October 31, 2019 at 5 PM – 11:30 PM. Our Halloween on Halloween Party is always a good time! Join us this year for a spooktacular evening with fun games, drink specials & a costume contest!

    Channel 7

    Marathon Mason Trial Ends, Judge Deliberates
    The murder trial for William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo is done. It was completed today, and tonight, the outcome is completely in the hands of Justice Antoinette Moore. She has reserved judgment to a date to be announced, and she will begin to decide on the guilt or innocence of all 5 men, for the July 2016 murder of Pastor Lewellyn Lucas. Today's closing arguments came from the defense attorneys Norman Rodriguez, Bryan Neal, and Iliana Swift. We begin our coverage tonight on the submissions that Rodriguez presented for Ashton Vanegas.

    Will Faber Exploit Mason - Saldivar Connection?
    And while Mason and his co-accused have to wait for a verdict - probably the biggest news coming out of the trial is the statement from Mason's key witness, a US Federal Agent. He said in a statement that Mason told him the UDP's aspiring leader John Saldivar was framing him. Now, Saldivar has responded, quote, "No evidence at all was presented in trial to substantiate this ludicrous and desperate statement." But, Mason may have been tactical in putting it out there - because, indeed, while the US Federal agent only reported that Mason had told him that - the message is clear: the Americans have been told that a UDP Minister was involved in a murder plot.

    Police Asking Public's Help To Identify John Doe
    The John Doe who was found murdered in the Orange Walk Cemetery yesterday has still not been identified. And, tonight, police are asking for your help. They have circulated photos of the man's tattoos in the hopes that someone can identify him. He doesn't match any missing persons reports.

    Reynaldo Resigned
    Belize's Deputy Director of General Tax Services, Reynaldo Verde remains in a US jail cell in Florida, accused of extortion and attempted extortion of a US real estate investor in Belize. The investor told the FBI Verde was trying to shake him down for tax arrears and secret recordings were made of their meetings. Verde was reportedly asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars, but got only a thousand US dollars, according to the complaint. It's a huge black eye for Belize, since he is the second most senior tax man in the country - but, not anymore.

    Human Traffic Case Drops Through
    5 Benque residents walked free from immigration offenses in connection to a human snuggling case. The persons are 33-year-old Felicito Theresito Galvez, his girlfriend, Joanna Beatriz Gomez, 39-year-old Enrique Moralez, Neysa Amanda Gomez, along with her boyfriend, Ervin Llobani Arevola. The allegation was that they were connected to a human trafficking ring and that they assisted 4 Hondurans to enter Belize illegally. But today in court, Magistrate Emmerson Banner, struck out the matter when the prosecution could not produce the 5 accused with disclosure.

    Senate Meets to Prepare Brexit Contingency
    There was a Special Sitting of the Senate in Belmopan today, and to our recollection, it was probably one of their shortest, finished in less than an hour. But, that doesn't make it any less important than any of the Senate's usual business. The Barrow Administration went to the Senate to pass a resolution authorizing the ratification by Belize of the Economic Partnership Agreement, between the CARIFORUM States and the United Kingdom of Britain and Northern Ireland Motion, 2019. That's a mouthful, but basically, Belize and the other Caribbean nations want to ensure that trade between them and the UK is not disrupted due to their Brexit.

    Guns Off The Streets
    Today,. the cops have found some stash spots for guns and ammunition - including one at the corner of Iguana and Seagull street, and the other on Curassow street. They started this afternoon on an abandoned lot at the corner of Iguana and Seagull street at around 12:15, where they found a 9 millimeter pistol, with a magazine containing 5 live rounds.

    All UDP Horses Are Lined Up
    All week long, we've been reporting on the political jostling in the UDP. And that's because today was the deadline for interested persons to submit their applications for executive posts at the February 2020 convention. For Party Leader, as expected, there are only two names: Patrick Faber and John Saldivar. For FIRST DEPUTY LEADER, as we have reported, two representatives are vying for the post, they are Hugo Patt and Tracy Panton. Pott is now being advertised as part of Team Saldivar.

    Mike P. The Chairman Candidate Plays Political Chess and Checkers
    And while Party Leader is the most prominent post, the executive member who has to work the hardest is the Chairman. His or her job is to organize the party to win elections. Today at a special sitting of the Senate, we asked Mike Peyrefitte whether he's a with either Saldivar or Faber: Reporter: "Interestingly though you're saying you're going to run independent?"

    Attorney General Begs For Contractor General to Come On Board
    We also asked Peyrefitte about the recent amendment to the legislation governing the Contractor General. The post has been vacant for some time - and government has been unable to find a suitable person to take up the. To broaden the field of applicants, the requirement for the job have been relaxed slightly. Today Peyrefitte as Attorney General said a replacement can't come soon enough: Hon. Michael Peyrefitte, Attorney General of Belize: "It is expected that more people will apply, including those people who currently work with the public or including those people who don't work for the public service..."

    Godwin on The Granting of Brads
    We also got to ask the leader of government business in the Senate about the lucrative Brads Boledo contract. Godwin Hulse was a business senator when the contract was awarded in 2009 - and he discussed why it was given to Brads:.. Hon. Godwin Hulse, Senator for Government Business: "There were three applicants at the time. We had screened them thoroughly. One dropped out and at the last hour the other one dropped out so we were only left with Brads so the committee that I was on which was made up of several people, I was at the time Senator for the Business Community and so we after looking at the conditions that were put on the Brads Company to progress with this we were satisfied and recommended to the Government. Of course it was the government that did the final contract. So that is where it ended for me."

    How Much Was The Brad's Haul For GOB?
    The 10 year contract was awarded in 2009 and is about to come to an end. And - while we may never know how much Brad's Gaming Company Limited profited - how much did government get from that 10 year privatization? Well about 20 million flat, according to the Fin Sec: Reporter: "The revenue from the Brads Boledo concession, she characterized as lucrative." Joe Waight, Financial Secretary: "I think there is an annual license fee of 2 million Belize dollars and that's a flat fee, no percentage."

    Telecom Tax Matters Still Piled High
    We also asked the Financial Secretary about the pending matter with a sales tax department audit which alleges that BTL failed to pay 25 million dollars in sales tax. BTL has denied it flatly saying that the misunderstanding arises from the treatment of inter company transfers. The matter came up months ago - for transactions recorded almost a year ago - but the Fin Sec says it still hasn't been resolved: Reporter: "Is there any settlement on the BTL issue, the sales tax issue? We know that has been hanging, still hanging and there is now also an issue I am told with one of the major credit vendors for SMART."

    The Tide Is High, But Why?
    Changing gears now from government finances to the environment. If you've noticed rising tides and routine flooding in certain parts of the city you're certainly not alone. We looked into the short term effects of climate change on Belize city and we were hit with some conflicting views. One thing is certain however, the sea is continually reclaiming portions of our coastline. Cherisse Halsall has that story. Residents who live along the coast have noticed what seems to be major changes in high tides over the last two years. One concerned citizen Mr Stuart Young in the Home Park area says that these high tides have caused erosion in his neighborhood.

    Man Pleads Guilty To Killing Cousin
    Today in court, former firefighter Tishaun Hamilton plead guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter for the 2017 murder of his 17 year old cousin, Eaton Lamb. Hamilton was initially charged for murder. His sentencing has been deferred until December 9th. The killing happened in February of 2017 when police saw twomen having a loud argument. The police saw Hamilton with a knife in his hand chasing the other person, later identified as Lamb.

    Destinee and Sadie
    Sadie Vernon students got a special treat today, Miss Belize Universe Destinee Arnold stopped by to give a speech on the dangers of drug use among youth. The school had their own activities going on but Arnold's visit was the icing on the cake. Here is more. Arnold made a few other stops in the city including the Digi store in Mirab.

    The Macaroni Miracle
    Last night we showed you UB's engineering students preparing working models of functioning bridges. Today those bridges were tested for structural integrity and the team that built the strongest bridge won a first place prize plus bragging rights in the 11th annual Macaroni Structural competition. Cherisse Halsall reports.

    Cops Continue Mentoring
    Police have completed another cohort of their boys and girls club with a closing ceremony at the Radisson Fort George today. The press spoke to Douglas Hyde, Director Of PR For The Office Of The Commissioner Of Police. He told us that while it is a was a proud day for the participants it was also a sad one as they say goodbye to the friends they have made during their time in the program.

    Remembering Gian Chand
    Gian Chand Ghandi may have been the most important, most powerful hardest working senior government employee you never heard of. And that's because he worked in the background, He was an eminent attorney, but his art was actually statecraft, and, for decades, he worked alongside those who plied the levers of power. Power brokers, the legal fraternity and decision makers in government know his name well, and, now, students at the University of Belize will as well.

    Channel 5

    Justice Antoinette Moore Reserves Judgment in Mason et al Murder Trial
    Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore has reserved judgment in the murder trial of the century that paralyzed the nation with gruesome details, scandalous accusations and serious allegations against ministers.  William [...]

    Attorneys Confident that Accused are Not Guilty
    Also making closing arguments today was attorney Norman Rodriguez who is representing Ashton Vanegas.  According to Rodriguez, the prosecution has failed to call on any witness to provide evidence that [...]

    Faber Takes the High Road on Mason/Saldivar Allegations
    In the course of the trial this week, a written statement was introduced from a U.S. Federal agent who was called in by the Belize Police Department following Lucas’ murder, [...]

    Who Was Murdered in the OW Cemetery? Police Needs Your Help to ID Victim
    Police needs the assistance of the public to determine the identity of a murder victim.  The body of the man was found between two graves at a cemetery in Orange [...]

    No Pay for CGA Workers Amid Dire Financial Straits
    The Citrus Growers Association, a representative organization of approximately two hundred and fifty small growers, remains in financial ruin.  We have covered extensively the dire situation that the C.G.A. has [...]

    Crow-footing CGA’s Assets for Failure to Pay Bills
    Marilyn Peters, who has also been with C.G.A. for the past fifteen years as an accounts payable clerk, explains how the creditors visited their offices a few weeks ago enquiring [...]

    Foreign Company has Shares in Brads?
    Earlier in the month, Prime Minister Dean Barrow responded to a letter sent by firebrand activist Geovanni Bracket regarding a proposed contract to automatically renew Brads Gaming Company Limited’s management contract [...]

    G.O.B. Seeking Qualified Person for Contractor General Position
    Belize has been without a Contractor General for almost two years and the work that the office is mandated to carry out is currently being executed by the Attorney General’s [...]

    Belize Prepares for UK’s BREXIT
    The Senate met in Special Session for about an hour this morning in Belmopan to ratify the Economic Partnership Agreement between the CARIFORUM States and the United Kingdom. This is [...]

    Antwan Rivero Committed to Stand Trial for Murder
    Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford has committed Antwan Rivero to stand trial for the murder of thirty-seven-year-old Marcia Melissa Downs, a mother of two. Rivero is to be tried in the [...]

    U.S. National Guilty of Drug Possession
    U.S. national, Robert Blackford, pleaded guilty to possession of two hundred and six grams of cannabis when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford this morning.  For his guilty plea, [...]

    Caribbean Shores, No Place for Fiberglass Works
    Residents of Caribbean Shores, those in the immediate vicinity of a boatyard near the Belize sign, have expressed serious concerns over the use of that property for ongoing fiberglass works.  [...]

    Mentoring the Belize City Youth
    It was a proud occasion for a group of just under a hundred young persons. For six months, they had been learning life skills in the Youth Mentorship Programme of [...]

    “Not So Fast Saldivar, I am Running Independent” – Boss P
    Today, applications to contest positions in the U.D.P. Executive closed. As we have been reporting, the big election will be for the new leader of the U.D.P. between Patrick Faber [...]

    “It is not always chess. Sometimes it is just checkers,” says Michael Peyrefitte
    As you would know, Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte wants to be the U.D.P.’s next party chairman. The party will hold its convention in February of next year and Peyrefitte’s intention [...]

    A UB Building in Honor of Gian Gandhi
    The University of Belize has officially renamed its Faculty of Management and Social Science campus in Belize City in honour of the late Gian Gandhi.  He is the former Solicitor [...]

    The 11th Annual Macaroni Structure Competition
    It was all about macaroni this morning for a group of enterprising students from the University of Belize. But, the macaroni was not for consumption instead it was used to [...]

    Miss Universe Belize, Preparing for the International Pageant
    Miss Belize Universe, Destinee Arnold arrived in the country today and hit the ground running. During her time here, she is undertaking a number of appointments as she prepares for [...]

    A Health Fair to Raise Awareness on Kidney Disease
    This morning, the Belize Kidney Association partnered with the Belize Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, BELAIFA, to host a health fair in an effort to raise public awareness on [...]

    Amandala

    Darren Gentle, 26, executed in Orange Walk
    Darren Lee Gentle, 26, an office assistant of the Ministry of Works, Orange Walk Town, was shot in the head and killed by an unknown gunman at about 8:00 last night while he was sitting in the passenger seat of an SUV that was parked on the San Jose Nuevo Palmar Road in Orange Walk Town. Gentle, the son of Ministry of Works CEO Errol Gentle, was rushed to the Northern Regional Hospital, where he was officially declared dead on arrival.

    Tracy vs Hugo!
    The ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) is about to enter a new era when its present leader, Prime Minister Dean Barrow, steps down and the party holds its leadership convention in February of next year. Two area representatives, Collet’s Patrick Faber and Belmopan’s John Saldivar, have tossed their hats into the leadership ring and will attempt to capture the votes of a majority of delegates that will get one of them elected as the new UDP leader, the one who will lead the UDP in the next general elections scheduled for 2020.

    William “Danny” Mason beheading murder trial moves into closing arguments
    On July 16, 2016, the shocking discovery of a head in a black plastic bucket that was identified to be that of Dangriga pastor Llewellyn Lucas gripped the nation’s attention. Belmopan police moved rapidly and charged Guyanese national, William “Danny” Mason, and four other men who were said to be Mason’s employees, with a string of offences, including murder and kidnapping. The murder trial of the era began in early March and suffered major setbacks and delays after Mason’s attorneys, Herbert Panton and Rachael Montejo, suddenly walked away from the case and Mason hired a new attorney from his native Guyana.

    Unknown man found murdered in Orange Walk cemetery
    Less than 24 hours after Darren Gentle, 26, was found shot to death at about 8:00 last night in a vehicle on San Jose Palmar Road in Orange Walk, another man was found dead in that district. This afternoon, at about 2:30, a man was found dead in the Orange Walk Town Cemetery, located at the corner of San Antonio Road and Dunn Street. Police said that the yet unidentified man was found by a man who was walking in the cemetery. The man called the police and when they arrived on the scene, they saw the victim about 20 feet inside the cemetery.

    Mentally unstable man arraigned for murder and attempted murder
    Jayme Patrick Marin, 28, a resident of Caye Caulker village, was charged with murder and attempted murder when he appeared today before Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford. Marin, described by his attorney Hurl Hamilton as being mentally challenged, was also charged with dangerous harm and use of deadly means of harm. Senior Magistrate Ford explained to him that she would not take a plea from him because the offences are indictable, which means that a plea will only be taken at the Supreme Court if the matter is committed there for trial.

    Belize High School students built robot for international competition in Dubai
    During August, a small group of students at Belize High School began dedicating their afterschool times to a special project: They were building a robot that they have entered in an international competition to represent Belize. The group left Belize last week for Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, where they will be competing in the Annual Global Challenge which got underway on Sunday, October 20. Belize High School students built their robot for the competition, which is being held under this year under the theme, “Ocean Opportunities.”

    Corozal F.A. Opening Season Week 6 update
    Another successful week of our ongoing Corozal Football Association (CFA) Opening Season Youth Tournament 2019-2020. We are grateful to the Almighty Father for His continued blessings upon our office and participating teams. On Sunday, October 20, we had a total of 7 games, i.e. 2 U10, 2 U13 and 3 U20. We are pleased to report that all went well; it has been six successful weeks. These weeks have been a success, thanks to the match officials and the Disciplinary Committee persons, who have devoted their time and efforts.

    Ladyville Rising Stars are the first Smart Mundialito Champion of Champions
    he first ever Smart 13 & Under Mundialito Champion of Champions tournament was held on Saturday, October 19, at the Marion Jones Sports Complex football field, where the 2019 champions and sub-champions of both the Belize City Smart Mundialito and the Stann Creek F.A. Smart Mundialito participated in a quadrangular “champion of champions” knockout. In the semifinals, the match-ups saw the champions clashing with the sub-champions; then, following a U-10 exhibition, the semifinals losers played for 3rd place, and the winners squared off for the championship.

    Dangriga sports stats – PLB Week 12 at Carl Ramos Stadium on Sunday; another must-win situation for the home team, Dangriga WAGIYA vs league leaders, Belmopan Bandits
    The Premier League of Belize (PLB), as it is winding down its Opening Tournament regular season and heading to the top-4 playoff race, has two teams that have already made it to the top-4 playoffs automatically; those are Belmopan Bandits & Verdes FC. Four (4) teams are fighting for the 2 remaining spots, who are BDF, San Pedro, Altitude & our team, Dangriga’s Wagiya. This weekend, Saturday night & Sunday evening, will be an important weekend for 4 of those teams fighting for the two spots. Here in Dangriga this Sunday evening inside the legendary Carl Ramos Stadium at 4:00 p.m., it will be one of the biggest must-win games once again for our home team, Dangriga Wagiya, if they want to stay alive in the top-4 playoff race.

    4 shutouts in Week 2 of National Amateur Women’s League 2019-2020 Opening Tournament
    All 4 games in Week 2 of the National Amateur Women’s League (NAWL) 2019-2020 Opening Tournament ended in shutouts. Saturday, October 19 results At the Carl Ramos Stadium in Dangriga, Jewel Fury of Belmopan crushed Stann Creek Jewels, 8-0, with a whopping 6 goals from Mariela Morales (12’, 14’, 17’, 34’, 45’ & 61’) along with 1 each from Anijay Quiroz (20’) and Ada Cordova (79’).

    Editorial: UDP leaders believe in their corruption
    Most Belizeans should be familiar with a declaration from the UDP camp, a few years after they were ousted from office in 1998, that they had twice saved the economy only for the PUP to come behind and squander and steal the treasures that they had built up. Some in the UDP camp stated bluntly that this would not happen again. They would not leave the cupboard full for any incoming government, because it could be PUP. Some prominent members of the party also stated that they would get their “share” next time. We would be remiss if we continued this essay without mentioning that the first time the UDP got the boot from office, in 1989, the national treasury wasn’t overflowing with cash, but things were not too bad because the UDP government of 1984-89 had been well supported by USAID, sales of passports to Asians in an Economic Citizenship Program, and the sale of shares in the national telecommunications company.

    Amandala sets the record straight re settlement with Rene
    On 12th April 2019, Rene Villanueva, Sr., filed suit in the Supreme Court against Amandala and its Editor seeking damages for statements contained in an editorial published on 22nd February 2019. Amandala accepted that a statement in the editorial that Mr. Villanueva was born in Honduras was in error. In its defence, Amandala clarified that this statement had been corrected in its 1st March 2019 edition of the newspaper when Amandala published a portion of a letter from Lawrence Vernon which was headed “Eminent historian says Rene was born in Belize.”

    The 9th wee wi
    The way this story goes, this much liked, real personable brother who has some years on him, takes for wife a woman a little younger, okay, much younger than he is. Now, the person who told me this story was well brought up, very decent, never engages in debauched talk. The person who told me this story told me that in his youth he tried the church, to see if he’d like it, but the pastor of the church he was serving was a rogue, a villain, a dastard, a rapscallion, and he soured from the profession when he thought of meeting more low-quality scum.

    Ten days of silence and solitude – A Journey Within
    For most persons, taking a vacation break from one’s regular work schedule means an opportunity to travel to new places to enjoy scenery, people and experiences. For others it is also an opportunity to do something exciting or just relax and disconnect from the ever-present pressures of work and family responsibilities. But what if you had the opportunity to do something radically different, like taking ten days off to learn a healing technique that can sharpen and purify the mind, while helping you to free yourself from a lot of mental impurities that you might not realize are buried deep within your mind, resulting in miseries that negatively affect your life, and by extension, others with whom you interact? Would you try it?

    From British Honduras to Belize: one family’s drama
    Matron said after that time life went on without any great disturbance until the matter arose of her first grown-up dress. Mrs. Atkins, their seamstress, had Millicent’s and her measurements in her records and it was customary for her mother to purchase and send materials for her to sew their clothes, providing trimmings and suitable styles and sewing identical dresses for them both. When she reached sixteen, however, Mrs. Atkins recommended that the birthday should be marked by a special service at Church, at which time she should wear a dress made to order and properly fitted since she was now no longer a schoolgirl but a young lady.

    Egbert “Eggie” Baldwin freed of murder charge after nolle prosequi
    Ladyville construction worker Egbert Baldwin, 21, aka “Eggie”, who was charged with the murder of Ladyville plumber John Michael Williams, 32, was freed of the charge when he appeared today before Justice Colin Williams and a nolle prosequi was entered, indicating that the Crown would not proceed with the trial. Senior Crown Counsel Shanice Lovell entered the nolle prosequi because the main witness, Williams’ son, cannot be located.

    Long Beach Crips member’s body found in Vista Del Mar
    At about 8:00 last night, Brandon Bennett, 26, a laborer of Louise Bevans Street, Belize City, was found dead on the side of the Vista Del Mar Boulevard in Ladyville, lying on the ground in pools of his blood. He had been shot multiple times, in the head and chest. Police said that they found a number of expended bullet casings in the area near him. The time of, and the circumstances surrounding, the murder are not known, and no one was found in the area where the body was found.

    Director of Health Services confirms shortage of anti-retroviral drugs
    There is a shortage of anti-retroviral drugs in Belize, and this shortage will continue for at least another three to four weeks, according to the Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero. Dr. Manzanero made the remarks yesterday during an interview with 7News. Anti-retroviral drugs are the medication that persons living with HIV need to prolong their lives. Dr. Manzanero said that he is only aware of one particular anti-retroviral that is currently unavailable in Belize.

    Rodney Castillo, Sr., dies in vehicle accident
    –At about 8:00 this morning Rodney Castillo, Sr. 70, of Hopkins, was driving his SUV from Hopkins to the Lands Department in Belmopan when on his arrival near the Western Regional Hospital, he lost control of his SUV and crashed into the left front portion of a parked car. Castillo’s vehicle then swerved to the left side of the road. He was taken to the nearby hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.

    The Reporter

    Deadline for Submissions to Fill Vacant UDP Posts Closes; Several Names Entered
    The deadline for submissions to be selected on the UDP Executive passed at 5:00 this evening and the UDP Chairman shared that the following are the applications that have been made for the five vacant positions on the UDP’s National Executive.

    Body of Murdered Man in OW Cemetery Still Unidentified
    There is still no identity of the man whose body was discovered in the Orange Walk cemetery at the corner of San Antonio Road and Dunn Street, yesterday afternoon. The corpse was reportedly found sometime before 2:00pm, by a man who went to urinate near an open cement building that shelters three graves in the cemetery.

    The ‘REPORTER Logo’ Hijacked To Create FAKE FACEBOOK Page & Post
    Sometime last night ‘A Cyber Demon’ created a fake FACEBOOK page with the logo of this newspaper. Those fake posts, one of them depicted a group of Asian looking cartoon characters throwing Belizeans into the water from a land that is almost shaped like Belize, is completely and totally FAKE.

    Mike Peyrefitte for UDP Chairman?
    Attorney General, Senator Mike Peyrefitte declared that he too was going to enter his own race. Peyrefitte put in his name for the position of UDP Chairman – a post that has been held since 2013 by Alberto August.

    The Jostle For Positions In The UDP
    The jostle for positions in the UDP Executive has begun to take shape and intensify with two women Ministers offering themselves in key leadership positions this week, one of them even surprising the members of her team when she made the announcement.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Man shot and killed in Gales Point
    Minutes ago a man was shot dead in Gales Point Manatee. He has since been […]

    9 mm pistol found on Curassow Street, Belize City
    Shortly after midday today, police conducted a search on Curassow Street in Belize City. That […]

    2 Belizeans obtain Certificate in Tourism Hospitality Management in Taiwan
    Belizeans, Aaron Mai and Nisa Gonzalez both of the Cayo District were today awarded with […]

    In April 2019, the Governments of Belize and Taiwan held an agreement signing ceremony for a project entitled Belize urban resilience and disaster prevention.
    In April 2019, the Governments of Belize and Taiwan held an agreement signing ceremony for […]

    Ms Universe Belize visits NICH President
    Miss Universe Belize, Destinee Arnold today paid a courtesy visit to President of the National […]

    Police Department seeks public’s assistance in identifying body
    The Belize Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the body of a […]

    Marking history – Junior Jaguars scorches Salvador, qualifies for finals in U-18 UNCAF tournament
    The Under-18 boys’ national team have won Belize’s first major final at the Central American […]

    Teachers query date for renewal of teaching licenses
    In August, the Ministry of Education (MOE)informed all teachers nationwide that there is a grace […]

    PSU, despite “lack of confidence,” to talk to Health Ministry over drug coverage
    The Public Service Union (PSU) says it plans to talk to the Ministry of Health […]

    Senate ratifies UK-CARIFORUM trade treaty
    The Senate met in special session this morning in record time to ratify a treaty […]

    Social Security Board is looking for a new CEO
    Do you have what it takes to be Belize’s Social Security Board (SSB) new Chief […]

    Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to celebrate 40th Independence anniversary
    Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will celebrate their 40th Independence anniversary on October 27, 2019. […]

    Mexican Cultural Institute presents Chaya, Dinner with the Maya!
    The Mexican Cultural Institute in Belize, the Museum of Belize, Institute of Archaeology and the […]

    Prosecution’s closing statements in Danny Mason trial discloses more revelations
    On Wednesday, the attorney of William Danny Mason presented his closing submissions inside the Belmopan’s […]

    Blogs

    Dangriga and Hopkins
    If you are an independent traveler, you don’t want to miss a journey to the southern Stann Creek District. The Southern Highway stretches past colorful fields of citrus and bananas. This region, which includes Dangriga, Placencia, Hopkins, and the offshore Southern Cayes, is the pulse of Belize’s Afro-Caribbean culture. Garifuna villages face this beach-endowed coastline. In 2001, the Garinagu-an Afro-Caribbean people- were declared an endangered group by the United Nations. In Belize, they continue to thrive on their ancestral lands. They came from St. Vincent in dug-out canoes to our shores in search of freedom. Here they found peace and were able to practice their rituals, culture, and language.

    Cayo District
    San Ignacio is the most popular town to visit in the Cayo District. It’s a travel center from where all roads and activities fan out. Close to Santa Elena, on the east bank of the Macal River is the main population center of Cayo, with lots of good economical accommodations, decent restaurants, and frequent transport. If you are looking for a Belizean life experience, a local market is the perfect spot. San Ignacio Market is a vibrant place full of all the fruits and veggies from local farmers, local fresh prepared food, and there are many local artisans displaying their wares. It is a multicultural blend of colors, sounds, and flavors. Belize is well known for the variety of tropical fruits and veggies, like soursop, sapodilla fruit, star fruit, custard apple, yam, craboo, breadfruit, all depending on what’s in season.

    The Scarlet Macaw
    The Scarlet Macaw, the most magnificent and recognizable bird of the parrot family, is one of the largest, multicolored birds, with bright red, yellow and blue plumage. The normal size of this majestic bird is 35 inches from head to tail feather and it thrives in the rainforest of Belize. Scarlet Macaws are known to nest in holes up high and lay one or two eggs. This makes them one of a kind in their species. With their wide and strong wings, macaws are able to fly at a velocity of 35 miles per hour, they often fly in pairs or small groups and call each other in wild hoarse voices. Macaws are found particularly in southern Belize, where they thrive due to the conservation and protection policies Belize has in place.

    Best Birding Hotspots in Belize
    With more than 570 species of birds thriving in its varied ecosystems, there's no better place to go bird watching than in Belize. This gem of a country provides wonderful, year-round experiences for great birding experiences. From casual onlookers to veteran ornithologists, birders of every level delight in the sight of macaws, toucans, trogons, hummingbirds, storks, parrots, raptors, and other species commonly seen throughout Belize. Here are four of the best destinations to go bird watching in Belize:

    International Sourcesizz

    Textile sale will benefit Maya youth
    A textile sale featuring more than 700 unique and beautiful textiles from the collections of 30 donors will be Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 31-Nov. 2 at the University Museum, Kent Hall, on the NMSU campus. The museum and Weaving for Justice are sponsoring the fifth annual Textile Sale to Benefit Maya Youth. There is no charge to attend, and NMSU students will receive a 20 percent discount on items for sale. In addition to textiles from Guatemala and Mexico, the sale will include items from the Andes and other parts of Latin America, including huipils (women’s blouses), yardage of cloth, table runners, jewelry, books, purses, story cloths, and tourist items. All proceeds from the sale will go to scholarships for Maya young people in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize through the Maya Educational Foundation (www.mayaedufound.org).

    A New Private-Island Resort Is Opening in Belize
    A new private-island destination is coming to Belize, Caribbean Journal has learned. It’s called Ray Caye, and it will make its debut off the coast of Placencia in January 2020. The 20-room resort is a reimagining of the former Hatchet Cay Resort, now expanded and transformed, set about 18 miles east of Placencia Village.

    Tracking Infectious Diseases in Central America & Caribbean
    To better detect, understand, and respond to emerging infectious disease threats such as dengue, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is supporting research studies to better understand acute febrile illnesses (AFIs) in Belize, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. Announced on October 21, 2019, this international team including researchers from the CDC, Baylor College of Medicine, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, will create the network using a coordinated approach to detect and manage disease threats.

    Videos

  • The Ya’axché Show, 12min. The 5 wild cats of Belize enjoy the forested areas, which they call home. However, deforestation is putting a pressure on jaguar, puma, ocelot, jaguarundi and margay populations. These wild cats play a major role in maintaining ecosystems. We are protecting and working to understand these wild cats species within the Maya Golden Landscape. On The Ya’axché Show to chat LIVE with Sayuri Tzul is Evarista Sho (Education and Outreach Officer) and behind the scenes is Maximiliano Caal.
  • Live Music from Belize August 2019, 3min. Here is the port of Belize.

  • Calisthenics Park Jam (Corozal Town Belize), 5min.



  • Kayak up Joe Taylor Creek Belize, 30min. Quick trip up our local creek.

  • San Pedro, Ambergris Caye Belize, 3min.

  • Snorkeling with Manatees Belize, 1.5min. Snorkeling Tours by Blue Dream & Blue Heaven Adventures with Michael Cain in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.

  • Belize Scuba Diving with Dolphins, 1.5min.

    October 25, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Tiki Rum Festival comes to Belize
    Belizean bartenders and mixologists got to learn from the masters, when the Belize Tourist Board and 501 Hub hosted the first-ever Belize International Tiki Festival at the Princess Ramada Hotel in Belize City from Thursday through Saturday, October 24-26. Emir Sosa, the winner of the BTB Bartender of the Year 2018 competition, explained that over 150 bartenders have registered to participate in the event. Six visiting mixologists from Peru, Venezuela, Spain, U.S.A., Honduras, and Uruguay conducted seminars for local bartenders. The Festival culminated with Tiki bartender cocktail competitions from noon to 4:00 Saturday evening.

    San Pedro burn victim Katerin Michel Perez back in Boston USA for follow-up treatment
    Early in April of 2015, an unfortunate accident at the home of Carolina Dominguez Meza in the DFC Area left her daughter Katerin Michel Perez with third-degree burns to over 50% of her upper body. Perez was nine years old then and after being in Belize City for a few days in a coma, was airlifted to the Shriners Hospital for Children in Boston, USA, where she spent several months undergoing treatment. Since then, Katerin has made a remarkable recovery, and every year, she is required to travel to the medical center for treatment. Currently, she is back in Boston along with her mother for her annual check-ups and scheduled surgeries.

    Illegal plane landing in northern Belize prompts Mexican authorities to increase border presence
    After the seventh suspected drug plane for 2019 landed undetected in northern Belize on Sunday, October 20th, Mexican authorities have increased their military presence along the border with Belize on the banks of the Rio Hondo. The illegal aircraft, a Hawker Siddeley 125 jet, with an estimated carrying capacity of 1.5 tons of cargo, was found empty near the community of La Union in the Orange Walk District. Belize authorities say they are working with their Mexican counterparts to deter such activities; however, they admit that because of the lack of resources, such as radar to detect these aircraft when they enter Belizean air space, their efforts will continue facing challenges.

    Ambergris Today

    UK To Help Build Belize’s Climate Resilience And Adaptive Measures In Its Blue Economy
    As Belize prepares to celebrate Coastal Awareness Week under the theme, “building coastal resilience through innovation” a number of scientists and hydrographic experts are in country to continue work in helping to build the nation’s climate resilience and to develop adaptive measures as part of its efforts to manage and protect coastal and marine resources.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    BTB Newsletter- Toucan Talk, Issue #23
    Check out the latest edition of the Belize Tourism Board's "Toucan Talk" for July – Sept 2019.

    Help with funeral expenses on Caye Caulker
    Im pretty sure you all know Edwin Baltazar better known as Eddie, Shaba or Smurf. He has been living on Caye Caulker for as long as i can remember. His mom, Ms. Margaret Baltazar passed away yesterday, 22nd of October, 2019. Eddie is asking the Caye Caulker community to please kindly assist him in any way that you can so he can put together for his mom's funeral. Any donations will be greatly appreciated. Funeral services will be held next week Friday November 1st in Belize, Mile 13. If you would like to assist in any way, please contact Eddie directly at tel # 633-5532.

    Looking for a legal secretary for a law office on Caye Caulker
    The position is full time. Candidate must have a minimum of an associate degree, be a team player, be able to work in a fast-paced environment, meet strict deadlines, be legal to work in Belize, and be able to function in a stressful environment. No legal experience is necessary, will train the right candidate. The position is located on Caye Caulker.

    Tropical Agriculture Conference November 11-13
    Belmopan, NATS Grounds.

    Louis Sylvester Complex in San Pedro: Plan vs Reality
    AKA Saca Chispa Field... What they promised us vs. what they gave us ..

    Road work in San Pedro Oct 25-28
    The San Pedro Town Council in conjunction with Belize Water Services Ltd. hereby advise the general public that road works will be taking place between Friday, October 25 to Monday, October 28, 2019. Works will take place from the docking station at the Marina, unto the DFC Area and leading to Sea Grape Drive, in order to facilitate the safe and fragile transportation of the new Reverse Osmosis Plant and other containers that are scheduled to arrive in San Pedro Town between Tuesday, October 29th to Wednesday, November 6, as part of the Improvement of the Water Distribution System in Ambergris Caye

    Annual Cancer Walk on Caye Caulker
    Please join ARMS Of Love (Caye Caulker Cancer Group) in its annual cancer walk this coming Saturday. We start from the airstrip at 5:00 am, walk all the way up to the Split and end at the Central Park. We will have powder buns and coffee. A walk to remember those that have fallen to this dreadful disease, to honor the survivors and to let those fighting this battle know that they are not alone. A small donation of a $1 is being asked after the walk. Every little helps! Thank you and God bless.

    R.I.P. Isaac Marin. May you R.I.P. and rise in glory
    Issac Isaih Marin is survived by his father Salvador Marin, his mother Mirna Alvarado, 7 sisters and 3 brothers: Iselita Marin (pre-deceased), Jessica Marin, Nikita Marin, Lexee Marin Hernandez, Miguel Marin, Carlos Marin, Tatiana Alvarado, Chloe Bainton, Alexander Bainton and Nadi Bainton. Four Nieces: Jasmin Canto, Lenielee Requena, Jewel Canto and Hazel Alvarado Burn. Four Nephews Jamil Canto Jr, Joel Guzman, Emelito Hernandez and Kade Marin. A host of cousins and other relatives and friends. The family requests that attendees participating in any or all parts of the Celebration of the Life of Issac refrain from using black or dark colors.It further requests that hues of blue and green, the color of the sea, be worn. A non-alcoholic wake will be held at the residence of Salvador Marin on Saturday 26th October from 7:00 p.m.

    PACT invests in CZMAI
    PACT has recently awarded a secondary investment to the Belize Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) for “Strengthening the effectiveness of the Belize CZMAI”. This investment of $19, 715.00 will support the Institute’s work including Water Quality Monitoring, Management of the Sport Fishing Program, and other activities that support the overall management of Belize’s Coastal Zone.

    Tourism Arrivals Are Up In Belize
    With many Caribbean hotels experiencing a turbulent first half of 2019, Belize continues to buck downward trends with figures showing a healthy increase in tourist arrivals during the same period, according to The Lodge at Chaa Creek's managing director. Bryony Fleming Bradley said the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) reported another strong finish to the first half of 2019, with the country enjoying an increase of six percent in overnight arrivals and over ten percent in cruise ship arrivals compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, recent reports in Travel Pulse and other media outlets quote data from global travel research firm STR data showing that, overall, Caribbean hotel occupancy has been in decline throughout spring and summer 2019.

    Pumpkins at San Pedros The Greenhouse Market
    If you are not ready to splurge on the big beauties...do what I did and get a little local cutie for $4.50bzd. The big ones are $56bzd but consider that they came down refrigerated from Indiana and are Mose certainly not duty free!

    "50 BIG Experiences on Ambergris Caye" now out in paperback
    Just out in paperback - did you get your copy of 50 BIG Experiences on Ambergris Caye? A bestseller! https://amzn.to/2ochEGS

    2020 Rum, Ribs, Rice and Chicken Foot Contest scholarship awards
    Congratulations to Pat King and some of the scholarship awardees. The 2020 Rum, Ribs, Rice and Chicken Foot Contest scholarship awards. A sustainable investment in education.

    NOTICE for accommodation sector on Caye Caulker
    Those properties needing Health Inspection for 2020 License Renewal - please sign up name and cell phone number at CC Village Council. Health team will follow.

    Successful 2nd Annual Belize Birding Festival
    The Cayo district welcomed over two-hundred participants at the 2nd Annual Belize Birding Festival 2019, this past weekend October 19th and 20th at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. The two-day festival included presentations, panel discussions, workshops, birding tours, vendor booths, and an evening cocktail. In partnership, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), Belize Audubon Society (BAS), and the Belize Hotel Association (BHA) comprise the organizing partners of the annual Belize Birding Festival. This festival welcomes local and international birders and wildlife enthusiasts to enhance their appreciation of Belize’s spectacular natural habitat were over 500 bird species have been recorded. Belize continues to grow as exciting birding destination that hosted over 30,000 birding enthusiasts in 2018 (BTB, 2019).

    Paradise Theater playing this weekend
    The Angry Birds 2, The Kitchen, Girl on the Third Floor, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

    Channel 7

    Man Found Apparently Murdered in OW Town Cemetery
    There have been two apparent murders in Orange Walk in the last 24 hours.  Darren Gentle - who's is the son of Ministry of Works CEO Errol Gentle - was executed last night in a some kind of transaction gone bad.   We'll tell you about that shortly, but first to this afternoon's news of a dead body found in the town cemetery.   Around two this afternoon, the body of a John Doe was found stuffed between two tombs inside a mausoleum.

    Son of Works CEO Slain in Roadside Transactions Gone Bad
    So, that is the second murder case Orange Walk police are working on. The first happened last night when a man was killed with a single shot to the head.  It happened on a feeder road near the A&R compound in Orange Walk.  26 year old Darren Gentle - who was reportedly in the area to participate in a roadside transaction- may have been set up by the very man he had gone there to meet.  Cherisse Halsall reports: This was the scene last night just after 7:30 on a feeder road just off the northern highway in Orange Walk where police discovered the body of 26 year old Darren Gentle. He was slumped forward on the driver's side of a Grey and white Chevrolet Trailblazer.

    Mentally Ill Man Charged for Murder
    On Monday we told you about the stabbing death in Caye Caulker. It happened in the residence located below "I and I" bar when an altercation ensued between a mentally ill man and his cousins, one of whom died from the injuries.  And, today - notwithstanding his mental state - 28 year old Jaime Marin was charged for the murder of his 17 year old cousin, and the attempted murder of another cousin.   We spoke to his attorney, Hurl Hamilton, at court today - and he said that while is client has been remanded to the Belize Central prison there should be an alternative facility to house accused persons who are mentally ill:

    Another day, another No-Show Witness, Another Nolle Pros
    Another day, another nolle pros, and again it's because the main witness failed to show up.   In 2015, Ryan Alvarez Jr. known as "Lippo" was accused of killing Edward "Dutch" Robinson.  The 56 year old was collateral damage - because Alavarez was reportedly trying to shoot a gang rival, Jamil "Lado" Betancourt.   And when Betancourt did not appear in Supreme Court today before Justice Colin Williams for a trial without a jury, the case collapsed and Alvarez's attorney, Leeroy Banner, submitted that Alvarez did not have a case to answer to.

    Saldivar And Boss P? That Ain't Me!
    Things are really heating up in the UDP as we get closer to Friday. And that's because Friday is the deadline for candidates to submit their names to fill executive posts in the February 2020 national convention.   Today, there were two notable submissions.  First, Belize Rural South Representative Manuel Junior Heredia submitted his name for the post of Second Deputy.  So, that means he is now challenging Belize Rural Central's Beverly Williams who had submitted her name for the same position on Tuesday. Heredia is a long time and ardent supporter of Deputy Leader Patrick Faber, while  Williams has publicly stated that she is part of John Saldivar's slate. 

    Friendly Faber Supports Tracy, And Bev, And Hugo
    And while "Boss P" supported Faber in the last convention for Deputy Leader, he has not declared this time.  And neither has Tracy Taegar - who put in her name for first deputy.  She says she supports both Faber and Saldivar for leader.   And, keeping up with the sanitized public comments that betray none of the cut throat venality of inter-party politics, Faber says he supports Teager-Panton for first Deputy - and Beverly Williams for second deputy - even though she supports Saldivar:

    Is Faber Being Muscled Out of Leadership Race?
    And while Faber is publicly playing political kumbaya, behind the scenes right now it's a cut throat competition to secure standard bearers and their delegates.  And we get the sense that a lot of the energy from within the party is geared at making sure Faber does not get into the leader's seat.   We asked him today about those guiding hands: Jules Vasquez: "Would you accept that there are guiding hands inside the UDP who are trying - and they have tried before - who are trying to shape a leadership slate for John Saldivar and not for Patrick Faber?"

    Faber Says Delegates List Cannot Be Impenetrable
    And while Faber hopes that he will be able to campaign openly and directly to those 560 delegates - that really is the key to the February 2020 convention.   Who are those delegates?  And how can standard bearers make sure that they vote for the candidates who that standard bearer supports? Well, that's the art off politics, and it is very inexact, a fact which Faber hopes to capitalize on: Jules Vasquez: "We know that this will not be a delegates list like what you won the deputy leadership on, that was what would be called a peace time list, your friends. Now this is a war time list, it's only family and who you the mind will be on this list."

    Dangriga Got Short Changed Due to Divisions
    And, Clifford Peters from Dangriga, may be a good example of how delegate lists have to reflect some level of divisional diversity.   There's no way Frank Pawpa Mena can keep him off the list - even though eh says he will vote his conscience, and not necessarily how Mena wants him to. He told us though, that aside from this - he, Mena, and his brother, the mayor Francis Humphreys have patched up their substantial differences in the division,. And he told us why it make a difference:

    Still No Answers For Allan Pitts Shooting
    Switching now to crime.Police have not established a motive or any leads in the Allan Pitts' shooting. As we told you, it happened early yesterday morning just before 2:00, 27 year old Allan Pitts was driving along with friends coming from the direction of Swing bridge. But it was when they turned onto Alexandria street that Pitts heard 4 gunshots and realized that he had been shot to the shoulder. Today police told us the little they know so far.

    The Masculinity Problem
    The Gender and Development Programme of the CARICOM Secretariat today headed a workshop with an interesting concept. It's called Rethinking Masculinity, Understanding Gender Equality As A Means of Ending Violence in Schools, and by extension the community.  The workshop comes out of a study which the CARICOM Secretariat commissioned in 2012 in Belize, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.  It surveyed 1000 students aged 15-21, as well as their parents and teachers to find out what's behind male pattern violence which is a huge social problem in the region.  

    Closing Arguments In Mason Trial
    Last night, we took you to the Belmopan Supreme Court for the start of the closing arguments in the murder trial of William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo. This is the final step, just before Justice Antoinette Moore begins her deliberations. It is an opportunity for the attorneys from both the defense and the prosecution to try and convince the judge about the guilt or innocence of each accused. As viewers are aware, they are all jointly charged with the 2016 murder of Pastor Llewellyn Lucas.

    Boatyard Activities Cause Concern Caribbean Shores
    Fiberglass: It is a common construction material, you can find it in windows, roofing, aircrafts and boats among many other products. Well, it might be common but the fiber glass particles are dangerous to humans. They cause irritation to the skin, and when inhaled it causes irritation to the nose and throat among other serious complications.

    Making Macaroni Bridges
    UB's engineering students spent the day completing working models of functioning bridges. The students from the engineering faculty's three winning teams compete annually at the Macaroni Structural Competition in Chetumal, and this year the pool of talent seems strong. Lloyd Carillo of UB let us in on some of the preparations the students made in the lead up to the competition. 

    PSU Slams Minister of Health For Anti Retroviral Shortage
    Last night we told you about the scarcity of anti retroviral medications for persons living with HIV in Belize. The Ministry of Health says supplies are back ordered and won't be here for months.  

    SSB Paying For Spike In Dengue
    And in other health news, Social Security Board is feeling the cost of increased dengue cases. According to a report in the Guardian newspaper, from January to September of this year there have been 824 sickness claims as a result of dengue. The Social Security Board had made payments of $163,686.   The board states that the highest number of dengue claims that have ever been recorded was in the month of September of this year with a total of 293 claims and the claims keep pilling up. The Dengue related sickness claims for last year were also high. 

    Big Pharma and Belize Suppliers
    And in still more health news, the Director of Health services yesterday told us that big Pharma companies Pfizer and Bayer have made overtures to the Belizean market - but local suppliers don't want to go through the hassle of taking them up: Dr. Marvin Manzanero - Director of Health Services: "For example Pfizer costa Rica - who is the regional entity responsible for Pfizer products in the Central American region, came to us earlier this year and said, listen we want to make sure that the products that are Pfizer products are going through the adequate process..."

    What The Deputy Did In Taiwan
    When we met Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber today at the Biltmore, we spoke mostly politics - but we also asked him to recap his official visit to Taiwan.  As we reported, Faber went there for their National Day activities on the tenth of October.  

    The Tale Of The Taiwan Tailor And The Natty Trio
    And we couldn't help but notice that those boys looked pretty sharp over in Taiwan - which brought to mind a PUP story from about 15 years ago - about a particular minister who got a Taiwan tailor to outfit him on the state's dime.  

    Channel 5

    Ministry of Works Employee Murdered in Alleged Drug Deal Gone Wrong
    An employee of the Ministry of Works was gunned down in Orange Walk Town on Wednesday night.  Darren Gentle was inside a vehicle when he met his death.  The vehicle [...]

    One Suspect Being Sought for Darren Gentle’s Murder
    While persons in the area have provided account of what they saw, Investigators say that Darren Gentle was in the presence of another individual and that the pair drove up [...]

    Another Murder in O.W.: John Doe is Bludgeoned to Death in Cemetery
    Even as investigations continue on the murder of Darren Gentle, this afternoon the body of another murdered man was found at the Orange Walk cemetery.  At this time, he is [...]

    Jaime Marin is Charged for Deadly Attack on His Cousins
    This morning, Jaime Marin, was escorted to court for arraignment for the murder of his cousin, Isaac Marin and a slew of other charges. Seventeen-year-old Isaac was stabbed on Tuesday [...]

    Closing Arguments Continue in Danny Mason Trial
    The murder trial of William Danny Mason and the other four men accused of killing Pastor Llewellyn Lucas continued today with closing arguments inside the Belmopan Supreme Court.  The trial [...]

    Dexter Todd: No Compelling Evidence Against Danny Mason
    You have heard about the D.P.P.’s closing arguments on how Pastor Lucas was killed as a joint enterprise between Mason and the other accused men.  Late on Wednesday, Mason’s attorney, [...]

    Faber Congratulates Women Candidates Panton and Williams
    The U.D.P. is gearing up for its national convention in February 2020 so this week there was a buzz of activity to met deadlines. . Albert Area Representative Tracy Panton [...]

    Where is Faber’s Slate?
    While a few area representatives and standard bearers have come forward in support of John Saldivar’s candidacy for Deputy Party Leader, Faber has remained fairly quiet about his support base.  [...]

    Was Philloughby Being Duplicitous with John and Patrick?
    It is no secret that Patrick Faber and John Saldivar joined forces in November of last year to ensure that Phillip Willoughby won his seat as standard bearer for the [...]

    Peyre is the Man for the Job – Patrick Faber
    Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte is also running for the position of chairman of the United Democratic Party.  He is being backed by incumbent presiding officer Alberto August.  Both Saldivar and [...]

    Faber Says Mark King’s Application for Chairman is a Joke
    Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte has submitted his application for U.D.P. Party Chairman to succeed Alberto August, who has served in that post since 2013 and is going down a notch [...]

    Medical Congress in Belize Focuses on Emergency Care
    This year’s medical congress is being held here in Belize City for two days and is focusing on emergency medicine. “Multidisciplinary Approach to Emergency Medicine” is the theme of the [...]

    M.O.H. Monitoring Dengue Epidemic as Rainy Season in Full Swing
    The dengue epidemic has fortunately been on a downward trend over the past few weeks. Last week, the lowest number of new clinically-confirmed cases since the start of the year, [...]

    Transforming the Traditional Way of Socializing Young Men
    Traditionally, young men are expected not to show emotions and be tough. But is this having a negative effect and is it contributing to violence? The CARICOM secretariat is holding [...]

    It’s Harvest Season; the YWCA Gives Thanks
    It is the time of the year to give thanks for the harvest; over at the YWCA, the preschool children and everyone else were today offering gifts in many forms, [...]

    Healthy Living: Best Time for the Flu Shot
    Did you know that this is the best time of year to get your flu shot? As the rains have poured down the past few days and the expected cooler [...]

    The Reporter

    Setup & Murder In Orange Walk District
    A man identified as Darren Lee Gentle, 26, was murdered last night on a road in San Jose Nuevo Palmar, Orange Walk. When Police visited the scene just after 7:30pm they found Gentle in the front passenger seat of a Chevy Trailblazer, already dead from at least one gunshot wound.

    CARICOM Sounds The Alarm On Haiti – As Chaos Continues
    Caricom has voiced concern about the deteriorating situation in the island nation of Haiti, which is the most recent Caribbean nation to join the CARICOM Union. For the past 3 weeks the country which has a population of 10.9 million people has been in a state of chaos, and calls for the current president to step down has increased in recent days. There has been large demonstrations in the capital Port-Au-Prince, and an exodus of investment in some of the countries core income generating industries.

    LOVE FM

    Man charged for murder of his own cousin
    28-year-old Jaymie Patrick Marin has been formally arrested and charged for the murder of his cousin, 17-year-old Isaac Marin.

    Boss P denies being a part of Saldivar’s slate
    While John Saldivar may already have his slate together, Clifford “Boss P” Peters stated that he is not a part of it.

    Rethinking Masculinity to end gender base crimes
    It is not a surprise that gender based crime is a major issue, not only in Belize, but in the Caribbean region. To tackle this issue CARICOM held their 'Rethinking Masculinity, Understanding Gender Equality workshop’ in Belize to help with these types of crimes.

    Fight continues for Party Leader
    The UDP’s leader convention is fast approaching, and Patrick Faber and John Saldivar are fully engaged in their campaigns as they seek to succeed Dean Barrow as the leader of the Party.

    Faber says both Deputy Party Leader candidates are ideal
    While all eyes are on Patrick Faber and John Saldivar for party leader, competing for the seat of First Deputy Party Leader are Hugo Patt of Corozal North and Tracy Panton of the Albert Division.

    Man shot to death inside car
    An office assistant attached to the Ministry of Works in Orange Walk Town was found dead inside his car last night.

    Body found in Orange Walk Town
    Shortly before two this afternoon, the body of a Hispanic man was found at the cemetery in Orange Walk Town, at the corner of San Antonio Road and Dunn Street.

    Police hunt for suspect in Bennet Murder
    26-year-old Brandon Bennett was killed on Monday, October 21 and investigators are still trying to figure out who killed him and why. Police have been able to trace his steps hours before he was murdered and it turns out that he was in rival territory.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Unidentified man murdered in Orange Walk cemetery
    The body of a man not yet identified was found this afternoon on the cemetery […]

    Belize’s 1st Animated Movie to debut at the Bliss tomorrow
    The first ever Belizean-written and produced animated short film ‘Tecuani and the Duende’ will be […]

    Man found dead in Orange Walk
    Police in Orange Walk found the body of a man at the cemetery grounds on […]

    UDP convention heats up with applicants for New Chairman and Vice Chairman
    The United Democratic Party (UDP) is preparing for its national convention which will be held […]

    Jamie Marin, 28, charged for fatal Caye Caulker stabbing
    Jamie Marin, 28, has been charged with murder, attempted murder, grievous harm and use of […]

    Mexican Senate urges their migration institute to allow courtesy passes to Belizeans at the Northern Border
    An official statement published on the website of the Mexican Senate on October 17, 2019, […]

    High murder rates in Belize City, Belmopan, while no murders in Caye Caulker, Benque Viejo and Placencia
    Where is the most murderous part of Belize? Data recently released by the Belize Police […]

    Boy 14 accused of raping girl 5 and sexually assaulting another girl 5
    A fourteen year old boy is on hot, hot water after he allegedly raped two […]

    Belize Police Department: Crime is down
    Crime is down, according to a recent publication by the Belize Police Department. January to […]

    Blogs

    Seabean Garland: Can you Fit a Dremel Drill in Your Luggage?
    After a few months of collecting sea bean on the beach – the various floating seeds that wash up on our shores from all over the world… …I decided it was time to stop buying bowls (chipped white ones from Caye Supplies and beautiful wooden ones from Graniels’ Dreamland – see below) to collect the beans in…and start CRAFTING. BUT…before I got started…I thought I’d stop in to visit the master. He can carve the hardest shells into beautiful intricate shapes…maybe he can give me some tips on drilling simple holes in nuts.

    Art in Belize
    Belizean art reflects the culture, lifestyle, wildlife, seascapes, local street scenes and the amazing landscapes of Belize. You can find paintings, textiles, furniture, wooden sculptures, slate carvings, and basketry in locations such as galleries, gift shops or even on the roadside. Walter Castillo, Pen Cayetano, Marcos Larios, Carolyn Carr, Leisa Carr-Caceres – Leisa’s One of a Kind.

    The East Indians of Belize
    Belize is a true melting pot. The many cultures that have found a home here all contribute to the wonderful mix of food, dance, music, history, and culture that we share. Everyone contributes their own flavor to everyday life in Belize. Most people know that Belize is home to the Maya, Garifuna, Dutch and English communities but many don’t realize that Belize also has an East Indian community. Although they make up only 3% of Belize’s population, East Indians have managed to carve out their own special position in Belize. Most of them live in Forest Home and Mafredi in the Toledo district of San Antonio, Carolina, and Calcutta in the Corozal district.

    Videos

  • Invest in the Agriculture Sector of Belize, 2.5min. With over 1.9 million acres of arable land, Belize is ripe for developing and investing in Agriculture. Learn more in this video.

  • Invest in the Tourism Sector of Belize, 5min. Belize is one of the top tourism destinations in Belize and the world. find out how you can invest in Mother nature's Best Kept Secret!

  • Lamanai Belize 2013, 7min. Lamanai, eine ehemalige Mayastadt in Belize, vom Urwald uberlagert, ist erst zu einem kleinen Teil wieder freigelegt worden. Zu erreichen nur per Boot uber ein Geflecht aus Flussen. Mein Besuch dort war eine beeindruckende Erfahrung, ein paar Eindrucke mochte ich hier teilen.

  • Belize Diabetes Association Corozal Branch Diabetes Awareness month Family Diabetes Walk and Health Fair, 1.5min. Saturday, November 9th, 2019 starting at 6am Corozal Community Hospital to the BDA office. Thursday, November 14th for Schools, Villages and the General Public starting at 1pm sharp from the Andres Campos Civic Center and Back.

  • Belize | Desafio em dose dupla | Discovery Brasil, 8min. Dave e Cody aceitaram um novo desafio em Belize e comecarao a sua nova aventura em uma caverna.

  • 4th Annual Belize International Yoga Festival, 1.5min. Join us December 1st, 2019. Lets join together and "Be The Change." 4th Annual Belize International Yoga Festival. For more information: Call 610-0882.

  • Please support Belize Coastal Awareness, 2min. In celebration of Coastal Awareness Week 2019 under the theme, "Building Coastal Resilience through Innovation", we present CZMAI's Social Media Video Competition. Persons were asked to interpret this year's theme and make a video reflecting their interpretation. Each reaction counts towards a video's overall score so encourage friends and family to like, react and share their favorites. Here is Rolando Miron and Marvin Cus' submission:

  • Wolf spider and roach, 40sec.

  • Channel 5 Obituaries - DANA "NANA" ADELINE JONES MCKOY, 1.5min.

  • Channel 5 Obituaries - ISSAC ISIAH MARIN, 3min.

  • Award ceremony honoring the veterans of Caye Caulker, 54min.

  • Hanal Pixan in Corozal, 8min. The General Public is invited to attend Janal Pixan on Saturday, October 26th, 2019. It will be held at the Corozal Central Park commencing at 7pm. There will be some food displays such as Authentic Maya Cuisine, Chocolate Display, Atole Demo, Katrina's Face painting, Pib in the Park, Pok-Ta-Pok, Handmade Tortillas.

  • Youth Advocacy Through Arts (YATA) - Walls Down, 5min. Walls Down seeks to inspire community development through collaboration with proactive groups to protect children and youth from gun and sexual violence, as well as to facilitate interaction in public spaces using artistic expression that builds resilience through creativity, and innovation . Video produced by Oxa Productions for UNICEF Belize

  • SNORKELING IN CAYE CAULKER, 6min.

  • Belize Zoo, 15min. 'The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is a zoo in Belize, located some 29 miles west of Belize City on the Western Highway. Set in 29 acres, the zoo was founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola. It is home to more than 175 animals of about 48 species, all native to Belize.

    October 24, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Belizean Wavemakers Gather for Oceana’s 2019 Annual General Meeting
    On Saturday, October 19th, Belizeans from across the country came out in waves to the Saint Catherine’s Academy Auditorium in Belize City to participate in Oceana’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of dedicated volunteers, “Wavemakers.” Over four hundred Wavemakers from Corozal, Orange Walk, Belize, Cayo, Stann Creek, and Toledo districts, as well as Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye attended this year’s event.

    Belize hosts fifth Annual Multinational Security Cooperation Conference
    On Friday, October 18th, the Ministry of National Security (Defense) hosted the 5th Annual Multinational Security Cooperation Conference at the Grand Caribe Belize Suites & Residences in San Pedro Town. The main objective of the conference was to share Belize’s national security strategic vision, accomplishments, and requirements with its allies and partners.

    San Pedro Pirates nab first home victory of the PLB season
    During the 11th week of the Premiere League of Belize (PLB) 2019 Opening Season, San Pedro Pirates managed to win their first home game of the season on Saturday, October 19th. With this 2-1 victory against Verdes F.C, the San Pedro Pirates F.C moved up to the fourth place spot in the PLB charts with 16 accumulated points. The game began inside the Ambergris Stadium at 7:30PM, and fans were eager for a taste of home victory. At the 10th minute, Verdes’ Mariano Landero managed to score the first goal for his team. After that, Pirates responded with close attempts, offside, but all were unsuccessful.

    Ambergris Today

    BTB’s National Tourism Awards 2019 Recognizes The Best Of The Industry
    The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) recognized the top tourism performers during its 17th National Tourism Awards Gala Event held on Saturday, 19th October in Belize City. Congratulations goes out especially to the winners from San Pedro namely Grand Caribe on their win for Top Performing Hotel of the Year, the San Pedro Tour Guide Association - for the Tour Guide Association of the Year and to Mrs. Kelly McDermott Kanabar on her win for this year's Minister's Award.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    Dis da fi wi Chikin Opening in Boca del Rio

    Red-footed Boobies released
    We are beyond happy to announce that we released three of our juvenile Red-footed Boobies at Half Moon Caye a few days ago! Thanks to Belize Audubon Society we were allowed to join them to see if our loved birds adapt well in their new home!

    1st street North in Corozal is being repaired
    Be cautious until it’s finished.

    Run 4 The Coast
    Take a run for Coastal Awareness Week.

    **MISSING TEEN**
    Police are asking the public's assistance in locating 16-year-old Arleny Coye, of August Pine Ridge Village. She was last seen by her sister today at around 12:30pm wearing a blue blouse, blue jeans, and blue striped closed up shoes. She is about 5 feet in height and weighs about 115 pounds. If seen, please call 911 or 922.

    Voluntary Fire Service Training by the Fire Department on Caye Caulker
    Thank you to everyone who showed up to the practical part of the voluntary fire training. It was very educational and we have members of the community who can now assist the firemen. Thank you to Mr. Bucknor, Caye Caulker Fire Department and Mr. Gillett in making this a reality. Thank you to Island Magic for sending over staff to participate.

    Culinary Training in Belize City
    Food and Kitchen Safety. Food Costing. Cutting - Edge Cuisine and Textures. Plating Techniques. Dates: November 11-13, 2019. Contact: membership@btia.org Please see flyer below for more information. *No phone number provided*

    ALL ARCHAEOLOCICAL RESERVES ARE OPEN FOR VISITATION
    6AM THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019

    Holiday Hotel's Frightful Fete
    IT'S HERE IT'S NEAR! OUR FAVORITE NIGHT OF THE YEAR! There's nothing to fear! We're back with Holiday Hotel's Frightful Fete is going to be a night to never forget! THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2019. Get dressed in your Halloween best and we'll see you there!

    Sandy Toes Beach Bar & Grill Halloween Costume Party
    Are you all ready for our most fun party of the year. Join us on our 4th annual Halloween party coming to you with our house DJ and lots of giveaways.

    2019 Halloween Bash Hosted by Crazy Canucks Beach Bar
    Halloween 2019! Time to get those costumes ready! We are celebrating on Friday, October 25, which also happens to be Rob’s birthday! DJ, prize giveaways, free shots. Let’s start the Halloween week out with a bang!

    Holiday Party & Tree Lighting Ceremony
    It's the most wonderful time of the year at The Truck Stop! Come join us for our annual Holiday Party, Tree Lighting, and photos with the big man himself -- SANTA CLAUS! 6PM - Tree Lighting. 6:30 - Photos with SANTA! All Night - Fun holiday festivities for the whole family! It's going to be another really fun night, and we hope you can join us. From our family to yours, Happy Holidays San Pedro!

    Channel 7

    5 Year Old Girls Molested By 14 Year Old Boy in Stann Creek
    Two highly disturbing cases of unlawful sexual intercourse with minors were reported in Sitee River over the weekend. What makes these cases even more disturbing, however, is that the victims are little girls, just 5 years old, and the alleged assailant in both cases is a 14 year old boy. Police are moving very carefully with the investigation, and involving social sector partners because of the difficult and sensitive nature of the case - involving all minors. The head of National Crimes Investigation shared preliminary details earlier today at the Training Academy in Belmopan..

    Police Careful With Case Of Mentally Ill Killer
    We'll keep following that case very closely for developments, and in other news Last night we told you about the Marin brothers, 17 year old Issac and 22 year old Carlos. The teenager was fatally stabbed while his brother is recovering in the hospital. It happened in the residence located beneath "I and I Bar" on Caye Caulker, and while last night we reported the story according to the account's of the village chairlady, today police presented a slightly different sequence of events.

    COMPOL Outlines Protocol For Dealing With Mentally Ill Suspect
    And while Jaime Marin remains in police custody, there are concerns regarding whether a jail cell is an appropriate location for him given his reported delicate state of mental health. Earlier today the commissioner walked us through the steps that will have to be taken before Jaime Marin can be charged with either murder or manslaughter in the stabbing death of his cousin Issac. Chester Williams, Commissioner of police: "We, the police are no in a position to say who has mental health issues. That is a profession that is foreign to us. We would have to rely on the expert opinion from those persons who were trained in those areas, but we can say that of late we have seen a number of those incidences where people are saying that the perpetrator has some mental health issue i.e. the incident in Caye Caulker a couple days ago."

    Did Brandon Veer Into Enemy Territory?
    Last night we told you how Brandon Bennett was shot and killed and his body thrown on the Vista Del Mar Boulevard in Ladyville. It is believed to be a gang related killing. Today ACP Myvette shared what police know about the last moments of Brandon Bennet's life - which includes an excursion into gang territory. ACP Joesph Myvette: "Sometime shortly after 8:00 pm on Monday police were called to an area on Vista del Mar boulevard. Where they saw he apparent lifeless body of a male person with apparent gunshot wounds and he was later identified as Brandon Bennet, 24 years of a Louise Bevans address in Belize City..."

    DHS Asks Brackett Where Are The Facts?
    Last night on the news, activist of many causes and colors Geovanni Brackett spoke out against the Ministry Of Health's strict regulations on pharmaceuticals. Brackett said the The Food and Drugs Regulations of 2017 has made it so that Belizeans can't readily access the quality name brand drugs they want. Today, we caught up with the Director of Health Services at another event to get his response. He said that Brackett's big show was a lot about perception and not much about fact:

    What's Behind the Over The Counter Restrictions?
    So, if you have concerns about the quality or effectiveness of a pharmaceutical product, here's the number to call: It's the Drug Inspectorate at 828-4467 or you can email them at drugalert@halth.gov.bz. And while you may have questions about generic drugs, what about those trusted names you used to be able to buy on the drug store shelves? Those have now been moved behind the counter - and we asked Manzanero why, using the brand name of a popular drug, Pepto Bismol:

    GMP, CPP, and COA - What Does It All Mean?
    And so while those trusted meds have been put on the back shelf - they say for your safety - what about other, brand name prescription medicines? Many complain that trusted, reliable brands which keep them healthy have become scarce or unavailable locally, and the generics don't do the job. The Ministry's response is that all those generics meet three main standards - which are at the heart of the new regulations. These are certificates of GMP, short for Good Manufacturing Practice, CPP, short for Certificate of pharmaceutical product, and COA, Certificate of analysis.

    Doctors, Don't Play Up To Big Pharma
    And that's why, Manzanero says, your doctor should not prescribe brand names, but instead give patients the drug name and let them find the best price: Reporter: "Are you getting any complaints from doctors about the prescriptions and having difficulty providing the medications that the want to prescribe and also reports of anyone, people going more and more to Chetumal to find medications when its unavailable in Belize and we've heard people call on the airwaves and some have taken to facebook to complain about this."

    Drugs Are Being Tested
    And, again, we come right back to the issue of the quality of the prescription drugs you may be getting. He says they have tested drugs that are on the market: Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services: "While we don't do in country testing, the mechanism that we have set in place of having a GNP, a CPP and COA is precisely to avoid that situation, because if you have a product that has a GNP, a CPP and COE.."

    Are NHI Meds Safe?
    But what about the drugs administered under the NHI program? Have those been tested? Since April of 2017, the NHI program has been using its own specially packaged generic medicines at select pharmacies. Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services: "Actually his concern was that the medications that NHI provides meets the same requirements..."

    Are Jilted Suppliers The Moving Hands Behind Brackett?
    And the real rub at the root of all this back and forth about certain drugs and whether they meet standards, is really and push and pull between the Ministry of Health - as the regulator, and the suppliers, who import the drugs in this multi million dollar pharmaceutical industry. Manzanero says he feels that Brackett - the activist - was acting more like a lobbyist for certain suppliers - mouthing arguments he's heard before:

    Pharma Supply Contracts For the Well Connected?
    But what some do feel is happening that some well connected suppliers are being given special consideration for Ministry of Health supply tenders. Manzanero has chaired twice chaired the tender committee and we asked him if he got any special directions: Reporter: "It persists this allegation that the minister and the now new CEO have people fronting for them in companies that are being favoured for tenders."

    Shortage OF Anti-Retrovirals Won't End Soon
    Turning now to news of another kind of medication - persons living with HIV are concerned because of a national shortage of anti retro viral medications. It's a critical issue for these persons, and Manzanero says it is on back order:

    Pitts Shot In Car
    Early this morning just before 2:00, 27 year old Allan Pitts was driving along with friends coming from the direction of Swing bridge. But it was when they turned onto Alexandria street that Pitts heard 4 gunshots and realized that he had been shot to the shoulder. ACP Myvette told us what Pitts reported to police earlier today. ACP Joesph Myvette: "Sometime shortly after 1:00a.m. this morning Belize City police was alerted of a shooting on Baghdad street in Belize city whereupon arrival they canvassed the area and were told that the victim had already been taken to the Belize Healthcare Partners..."

    Commissioner Says Major Crimes Going Down, But Much More Needs Be Done
    We met the Commissioner of Police Chester Williams in Belmopan today at the Training Academy with all commanders from formations countrywide. They gathered at the Belmopan Training Academy for the quarterly Computer Statistics Briefing, known as COMSTAT. They discussed the crime figures for the last quarter of the year and how they will bolster their collective response to crime. Now as it relates to the numbers so far, Commissioner Chester Williams says that while crime in the west is up. Nationwide things are going "somewhat well."

    Mason Trial Begins To Wind Down With Closing Arguments
    After many months of long days in court, and unavoidable delays, the trial of William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo is finally winding down. Very soon, Justice Antoinette Moore will begin her deliberations on the guilt or innocence of these 5 men for the crime of murder. The attorneys for both the prosecution and the defense began their closing arguments today and depending on the duration of each speech, this case could conclude on Friday, or by Monday afternoon at the latest.

    Dengue May Spike With Heavy Rains
    The latest Dengue figures show that the infection rate is on a downswing - but with these heavy rains, it is expected to go up again. And the relentless rain is also why you haven't seen spraying trucks in your neighborhood. The Director of Health Services told us more: "The dengue situation, I reviewed the data for this week gone by and it's the lowest confirmed cases I think for the last 8 weeks. The numbers have continue to come down, now the rainy season is here, our system still remains open and vigilant to ensuring that we don't missed out on those particular cases. Dengue, the topic is going to be discussed today at the pre=medical congress in terms of the clinical management, the updates in that regard. The spraying cycle continues..."

    Continuous Education For Doctors
    Dengue was one of the subjects being discussed at the medical conference where we met Manzanero today. It was held at the Biltmore and he told us more:...

    A Palotti Pickup For Raffle
    In April 2020, a lucky Belizean will drive away with a 2020 Nissan Frontier from Bravo Motors. That's when Pallotti High School will announce the winner of their vehicle raffle. Today the Pallotine sisters invited the media to launch a number of fundraising activities that will fund the construction of their much needed multi-purpose auditorium which will house a music conservatory and a gym. Their fundraising effort began today with the raffle.

    Talking Tiki Rum
    Liquor, liquor and more liquor: that's mostly what you will see starting tomorrow afternoon at the Princess Ramada for Belize's first ever International Tiki Festival. Well ..you may also see some tipsy tiki behavior as well but that's another story Over 150 bartenders including six visiting bartenders from Peru, Venezuela, Spain, U.S.A., Honduras and Uruguay will be attending.

    Channel 5

    The Investigation into the Rape of a 5-Year-Old by Another Minor
    Tonight, there is a very disturbing report of sexual assault against children. Police have finally confirmed a report circulating since the start of the week that a five-year-old girl has [...]

    Reynaldo Verde Pleads Not Guilty to Extortion Charges
    Forty-six-year-old Reynaldo Verde, the Deputy Director of General Tax Services, remains in jail in the United States.  Verde is facing charges of extortion and attempted extortion.  Today, he appeared before [...]

    Official Details on the Stabbing Death on Caye Caulker; Who will be Charged?
    There are fresh details tonight on the unfortunate stabbing death of Isaac Marin and the stabbing of his brother Carlos, in Caye Caulker. Seventeen-year-old Isaac died shortly after the attack [...]

    Police Tracking Brandon Bennett’s Whereabouts before He was Executed
    Police also provide an update to the murder of a Belize City resident. Louise Bevans Street resident Brandon Bennett was executed on Monday night and his body dumped on the [...]

    Allan Pitts is Shot in Belize City After Midnight
    Twenty-seven-year-old Allan Pitts, a support technician of Burrell Boom Village, was injured shortly after midnight on Tuesday when the vehicle he was traveling in came under gunfire.  It is reported [...]

    Mike Peyrefitte for U.D.P. Chairman!!
    As the U.D.P. gears up for its February 2020 convention which will elect a successor to Prime Minister Dean Barrow as leader, a number of persons are throwing their hat [...]

    Patrick or John? Nobody Knows Who Will Win Says Peyrefitte
    With the leadership convention scheduled for February 2020, it would appear that the highest number of delegates is adding up in favour of John Saldivar, who lost to Patrick Faber [...]

    Deputy Leadership Shows Democracy
    As for first deputy leadership, Peyrefitte maintains that both candidates, Tracy Panton and Hugo Patt, are well intentioned in spite of who they are supporting for party leader.  He says [...]

    Peyre Says He’s Running Independent
    So who is Peyrefitte supporting for new leader of the U.D.P.?  That’s a question we put to him during our sit down this morning and he told us that despite [...]

    Former Magistrate’s Court Secretary is Guilty of Theft
    A secretary for the Dangriga Magistrate’s Court was convicted of theft at the Dangriga Magistrate’s Court for theft. Forty-nine year-old Dorkas Caliz was charged for stealing one thousand dollars from [...]

    Belize Out of Anti-Retroviral Meds; New Stock Coming “Within a Few Weeks”
    A lack of anti-retroviral medication is putting lives at risk. If a person with HIV/AIDS does not take the meds as prescribed, it can cause HIV to become resistant to [...]

    M.O.H. Responds to Pharmaceutical Concerns
    The Ministry of Health is today responding to concerns raised over the importation of generic drugs. Giovanni Brackett, an activist, says the F.D.A. approved drugs are not available and while [...]

    P.U.P. Demands Answers from M.O.H.
    The People’s United Party is reacting to our report on the shortage of anti-retroviral medication used to treat patients living with HIV/AIDS.   The P.U.P. expresses concern over the unavailability of [...]

    Police Department Reviews Major Crimes; Murders Down so Far
    The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams was flanked by the top brass of the Belize Police Department, including regional commanders, as he released a crime report. Williams says major crimes [...]

    Chester Wants to Close Down Irresponsible Liquor Establishments
    Commissioner of Police Chester Williams during his interview with the media today took aim at the liquor establishments, who he says, have been irresponsible. He contends that alcohol consumption has [...]

    Dr. Jorge Hidalgo Elected as Sec. Gen. of W.F.S.I.C.C.M.
    Approximately two thousand delegates, including key policy decision-makers, across all domains of critical care and from over eighty-four countries gathered in Melbourne, Australia last week for the fourteenth World Congress [...]

    World Congress of Intensive Care focused on Diversity
    According to Doctor Hidalgo, the five-day congress discussed the issue of diversity to include small countries around the table since their needs are different. The World Federation of Societies of [...]

    Hand in Hand Gifts a Brand New Home to a Southside family
    A deserving family of eight received the key to their brand new home today in Belize City. Silvia Castro, her husband and their six children were begging for lodging in [...]

    The Reporter

    U.D.Ps Beverly Williams Jumps On Saldivar’s Band Wagon
    The Reporter has confirmed that following on the heels of her colleague Tracy Taegar Panton, Hon. Beverly Williams has submitted her application for the post of Second Deputy Leader of the UDP.

    LOVE FM

    MOH responds to allegations of medication shortage for HIV patients
    There have been reports of a shortage of anti-retroviral medications, which are used to treat patients with HIV/AIDS.

    MOH celebrates Dental Health Week
    Many people are probably not aware that October 20 to 26 marks Dental Health Week. Dental health is probably not something considered by many Belizeans when they think of the overall health of their body.

    COMPOL coming after nightclubs
    It is no secret that the Police Commissioner is cracking down on club owners and lobbying with the various liquor licensing boards regarding bar establishments around the country. In many instances these bars are not adhering to the liquor laws and minors are being allowed to purchase and consume alcohol.

    Innovative app launched to change the way Belizeans shop
    Belize-On is an innovative app designed by Karl H Menzies Company Limited as a new way to shop in Belize. Consumers can log in to the app and purchase from different stores around the country without even leaving their home.

    No one Charged for double stabbing in Caye Caulker
    Police officers continue to probe into the murder and stabbing incident that claimed the life of 17-year-old Isaac Marin in Caye Caulker. On October 21, Isaac Marin was sleeping in his home on Luciano Reyes Street when his mentally ill cousin reportedly came into the room and stabbed him.

    Belmopan crime at an all time high
    While the Police Department boasts about crime numbers being lower, one particular region that has been traumatized due to a spike in crime is out west. The western region of Belize has seen a lot of homicides in the last few months.

    Police Department talks about crime statistics
    Crime is down in Belize City … That is what the Police Commissioner, Chester Williams told the media today. In a special conference in Belmopan, the Belize Police Department released its statistics on crime around the country.

    Doctors and nurses meet for medical congress
    Doctors and nurses from all over the country gathered at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza today for the annual pre-medical congress.

    Police investigate rape incident in Stann Creek
    Earlier this week we told you of a case where a minor reportedly raped another minor in Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District. Initially we reported that the victim was seven years old; police confirmed, however, that the child was only five years old.

    Police accommodate for mentally ill individuals
    The Police Department is working closely with the Ministry of Health to address crimes involving mentally ill individuals. As recent as last month, several police officers were trained by the Head Nurse of the Mental Health Unit in the Ministry of Health in recognizing and dealing with mental health issues.

    Police Hunt For Suspect In Bennet Murder
    26-year-old Brandon Bennett was killed on Monday, October 21 and investigators are still trying to figure out who killed him and why. Police have been able to trace his steps hours before he was murdered and it turns out that he was in rival territory. Despite that, it is still unclear what prompted Bennett’s demise.

    Another Belize City Shooting
    A technician attached to Belize Telemedia Limited was shot early this morning as he rode inside a vehicle with friends in Belize City. 27-year-old Allan Pitts was reportedly inside a red Kia Sorento and was traveling on Baghdad Street when upon their approach onto Alexandria Street, they came under attack.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Ministry of Works employee is victim of tonight’s murder in Orange Walk
    Earlier tonight a man was gunned down in Orange Walk Town. The incident occurred in the […]

    PUP takes aim at Ministry of Health
    The People’s United Party (PUP) condemned the Ministry of Health (MOH) today, over the apparent […]

    Belize U-18 book semifinal place after Panama draw
    The Belize Under-18 selection made national history today in Costa Rica, advancing to the final four […]

    Teen,16, reported missing in August Pine Ridge
    The family of 16-year-old Arleny Coye of August Pine Ridge is seeking the public’s assistance […]

    Son and friend charged in Corozal murder
    Belize City residents Earl Bowden, 46, and Norman Castillo, 38, were arraigned on Monday in […]

    Minister of Education breaks ground for new Pre and Primary School in Santa Elena
    Today, Minister of Education, Patrick Faber broke the ground for the construction of a new Pre […]

    Toledo to receive new Emergency Operations Center
    The United States (US) Embassy in Belize today announced that there will be a ceremony […]

    Belize defeats Guatemala 1-0, can qualify for UNCAF U-18 Men’s Championship semifinals
    The Jaguars can still qualify for the semifinal round of the Central American Football Union (UNCAF) […]

    Pomona Village Council and Area Rep unsatisfied with new Water Board
    Members of the Pomona Village Council and Area Representative for Stann Creek West, Rodwell Ferguson […]

    Boston Herald publishes heartwarming story of Belizean burn victim and her physical therapist
    The Boston Herald, one of the oldest daily newspapers in the United States, published a […]

    Belize Vacation Giveaway Set to Award a Full Week in Paradise to One Lucky Couple
    Coco Plum Island Resort is delighted to announce a giveaway that runs between October 15, […]

    Gun and ammunition found in Belize City
    Proactive policing has removed a gun off the streets and out of the reach of […]

    Allan Pitts shot in Belize City
    A man was shot in Belize City early this morning. He has since been […]

    House and dog shot up in Orange Walk Town
    Just before 11 o’clock last night there was a shooting in Orange Walk Town. […]

    Hugo Patt takes on Tracy Panton for deputy leader of UDP
    Earlier this week, Tracy Panton applied to be the Deputy Leader of the United Democratic […]

    Tropical wave brings more rains
    The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring a tropical wave that is producing disorganized showers […]

    National Met Office issues advice on flooding in flood prone areas
    This morning, the National Meteorological Center of Belize issued an advisory for residents living near […]

    Immigration Department loses two passports?
    This morning, a Nicaraguan woman called into a local radio station claiming that her two […]

    Mayor Wagner donates to children at Days of Healing Headquarters
    The Days of Healing initiative, led by Perry “Stickz” Smith has provided a sanctuary for […]

    Community of Artists for Cultural and Historical Endeavours launches telethon
    The Community of Artists for Cultural and Historical Endeavours (CACHE) has launched a telethon to […]

    Blogs

    Finger – Licking Belizean BBQ!
    Ask any Belizean what’s on their lunch menu for Saturday and hands down you will get the response “BBQ, of course!” it’s a weekend favorite. The convenience of having someone else do all the hard work that goes into preparing BBQ is always welcomed on a Saturday since this is the day when most Belizeans are busy tackling house chores, getting groceries, or helping the kids with their homework. What is also convenient is the time it takes to get your order fulfilled and have your plate on your dining table or on the go in no time. Barbecue stalls are located on practically every street corner in Belize. Vendors set up their tent and barbecue grills on the sidewalks taking advantage of the proximity to pedestrians and motorists alike. You can smell from afar the sweet smoky aroma of pork chops, ribs, sausage, steak, chicken, and even seafood like lobster (when in season).

    The Belize Audubon Society – A Vital Link Between People And The Environment
    Belize Audubon Society is a national conservation leader and development partner that inspires people to live in harmony with and benefit from the environment. It is a non-governmental, membership-based organization dedicated to the sustainable management of our natural resources. “It all started with the Boobies”, the native birds of Half Moon Caye. Almost four decades after the hallmark victory of advocating for the establishment of Belize’s first protected areas: Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, the National Parks System Act, and the Wildlife Protection Act, the Belize Audubon Society continues to be actively involved in environmental advocacy. Today, the environmental advocacy focus is wider as the emerging issues surrounding sustainable development in Belize remains at the forefront.

    A Day in Belize City – Museum
    For tourists and locals who have only one day to look around Belize City, it may seem that the best bet is to explore what gastronomy the city has to offer. However, there is a charming national museum waiting for you to visit! Situated just a stone’s throw from the Belize Tourism Village, the Museum of Belize is safely tucked away on the compound of the Central Bank of Belize. Day tourists and locals alike are surprised to know that there is so much to see and learn behind the tall walls which guard both the museum and the city’s highest security location. The Museum of Belize is housed in a rigid historical building which was a prison called Her Majesty’s Prison from 1857 to 1993.

    International Sourcesizz

    From Tropical Jungles to Secret Beaches: Why You Should Visit Belize This Winte
    With its tropical forests, Mayan ruins and pristine coastline, there is a reason that Belize has become increasingly popular over time. In fact, with its juxtaposition of the Caribbean Sea and dense rain forests, this Central American destination has drawn comparisons to that most omnipresent of tropical getaways: Tulum, Mexico. Indeed, with its similar climate and terrain (Belize borders Mexico), and its rich Mayan heritage, there are striking similarities between the two getaways. We recommend beginning your trip in the rainforest, home to both beautiful tropical birds, the elusive jaguar, and yes, the fer-de-lance, once of the world’s deadliest snakes – be careful where you step when hiking out. Once you fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Ladyville, Belize, head to La Democracia to visit the Belize Zoo, which is less of a zoo in the traditional term and more of an animal rescue shelter where a jaguar will actually lick your head – one of the more thrilling and terrifying experiences of your life.

    Fishing vessel safety declaration signed by 48 states
    A total of 48 states have signed a public declaration to indicate their determination to ratify the 2012 Cape Town Agreement on fishing vessel safety at a ministerial conference held this week, the Maritime Executive reported. On Oct. 21-23, senior government officials from around the world met in Torremolinos, Spain to attend the International Maritime Organization’s ministerial conference on fishing vessel safety and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. The conference aimed to promote ratifications of the Cape Town agreement, a treaty that establishes international safety standards in the commercial fishing industry.

    Videos

  • The rain brought lots of visitors to our yard this morning, 2min. Little green heron (poor Joe), little blue heron, snowy egret.

  • Thousands of Caterpillar in the grass, 15sec. The chickens and guinea hens are in foodie heaven!

  • Pollution Crisis in New River, Belize, 3min. In September 2019, the Crocodile Research Coalition (CRC) has taken up the task to conduct research and monitoring of New River, Orange Walk, Belize in response to the continuous fish kills, water eutrophication and deaths of crocodiles.

  • BELIZE FLY FISHING, 6min. Fly fishing on the flats in Belize.

  • Belize: Klimawandel bedroht zweitgrobtes Riff der Welt, 4min. Dank Mabnahmen der Regierung war das Riff mittlerweile ausreichend geschutzt. Doch nun droht neue Gefahr: warmere Meere und Hurrikane durch den Klimawandel.

  • Hughes Honeymoon Belize, 9min. For our Honeymoon we traveled to Belize, Guatemala, and the island of St. George's Caye. We spent time in the first part of our trip exploring the jungle, climbing and jumping off waterfalls in limestone caves, temples, hiking, tubing down rivers, seeing howler monkey's and ending our trip on the island to snorkel and scuba dive. It is a trip we will always hold close to our hearts!

  • Fishing in Ambergris Caye Belize, 3.5min. Knotty Pirate/Uprising tours trip with Captain Eric and first mate Jiggy. A day on the water with these two was a blast. Started out catching sardines for bait and then Jiggy hopped in the water and came back with 26 lobsters! We then caught a bunch of snapper and a grouper. Then we headed to secret beach where Eric and Jiggy made us a fantastic lunch.

  • Dolphins having fun in the Placencia lagoon, 1/2min.

  • Channel 5 Obituaries - DEBRA DEBORAH TRAPP RAMCLAM, 3min.

  • Belize, 3.5min. Belize was such an amazing place filled with friendly people, tasty food, and colorful culture. Our favorite part of the tour was the Lamanai Mayan Ruins.

  • 1997 De wereld van Boudewijn Buch Belize, 30min.

  • Cahal Pech Archeological site/ Belize, 3min. something to do in Belize that is easily accessible. A very beautiful site located in the town of San Ignacio. come on down and see for yourself!!!

  • Sports Talk Show, 60min.

  • Youth Ambassadors Program, 1min. The Youth Ambassadors Program is currently seeking applicants to apply to the 2020 Belize Spanish program. Applicants must be citizens and residents of Belize, and speak Spanish. You can learn more about the program and how to apply at www.youthambassadorsprogram.org The deadline to submit your application is November 8, 2019.

    October 23, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Fatal stabbing in Caye Caulker leaves one dead and one injured
    The Marin family in the village of Caye Caulker is grieving the tragic death of 17-year-old Isaac Marin. He was stabbed to death while he slept sometime after 1AM on Tuesday, October 22nd, by his mentally-challenged cousin, Jaymie Marin. According to reports, his brother 25-year-old Carlos Marin tried to intervene but was injured. While Carlos was stabilized and transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City, his brother died undergoing treatment at the Caye Caulker Polyclinic.

    2019 BTB Tourism Awards celebrates Belize’s Travel and Hospitality Industry
    The contribution and importance of the tourism industry in Belize was recognized during the 17th annual Belize Tourism Board (BTB) National Tourism Awards. Held on Saturday, October 19th at Caribbean Motors in Belize City, the event saw guests and stakeholders from different parts of the country applauding the winners of the night. The tourism mecca of Belize, Ambergris Caye, was well represented, winning three awards overall. For the second consecutive year, San Pedro Tourist Guide Association (SPTGA) was victorious with the Tour Guide Association of the Year award over 17 associations across the country.

    30 years of service: Belize Mission Project is back!
    Well-known dental specialists and volunteers of the Belize Mission Project from the USA are back on Ambergris Caye! For the past 30 years, this annual dental program has been providing free dental work to island residents and Belizeans across the country. The team comprised of dentists, physicians, volunteers, laboratory technicians, and other medical professionals began offering their services on Monday, October 21st at the Lions Den in San Pedro Town and will do so until Friday, November 1st. Services offered include cavity fillings, cleanings, restorative dentistry, partial dentistry, among others.

    The Government of Belize Hosts the Belize -Taiwan Agriculture Investment Mission
    The Government of Belize, through the Ministry with responsibility for Investment, Trade and Commerce, along with the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), continues its partnership with the Republic of China (Taiwan) through the second investment mission under the theme, “The Belize Agricultural Investment Mission”.

    Ambergris Today

    Annual BTB Conference Focused On Cultural Immersion
    Tourism Industry stakeholders and international marketing experts converged at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel on Friday, Oct 18 to discuss a wide-range of issues important to the local industry as part of this year’s BTB annual Tourism Conference which saw a record attendance of over 200 participants. The conference evolved from the BTB’s strategic plan on equipping stakeholders with pertinent and relevant information for the industry’s enhancement.

    Hondurans Busted For Fishing In Belizean Waters
    During the early morning hours of Friday, October 18, 2019 the Belize Coast Guard detained two Honduran Nationals who were caught fishing in Belizean waters. These men were then handed over to the rangers of the Southern Environmental Association, who formally arrested the detained men.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    Caye Caulker has survived several Category 5 hurricanes but will it survive the current building boom?
    This morning beginning at 8:00 a.m., my concrete home which has survived a category 4 hurricane and countless tropical storms began vibrating crazily from strong ground tremors. Concrete walls were shaking like rag dolls while picture frames on the walls rattled. This morning beginning at 8:00 a.m., my concrete home which has survived a category 4 hurricane and countless tropical storms began vibrating crazily from strong ground tremors. Concrete walls were shaking like rag dolls while picture frames on the walls rattled. The vibrations were so strong I feared the foundations of my home would soon begin to crack and crumble.

    Murder of Isaac Marin on Caye Caulker
    We have confirmed that Isaac Marin,17 was asleep in his home when he was attacked by his cousin Jamie Marin who has been suffering from mental illness. Issac's brother Carlos Marin walked in on the scene and tried to defuse the situation but to no avail as Jamie was uncontrollable which led to Carlos being hospitalized at KHMH.

    REMINDER - COROAZAL $5 BAG SALE - BAHAMAS RELIEF FUNDRAISER
    REMINDER - $5 BAG SALE - BAHAMAS RELIEF FUNDRAISER Thursday, October 23rd. sponsored by the Belize Red Cross, Corozal Branch located at the Catherine Kelly Center on Santa Rita Hill. Time 9:00 a.m. to Noon. Directions: From the main highway go up the Santa Rita Hill heading towards the Corozal Hospital. Take your first right lane after the Santa Rita roundabout. First building to your right.

    2019 Belize Birding Festival was a Success
    The Belize Tourism Industry Association in partnership with the Belize Audubon Society and the Belize Hotel Association hosted its 2nd Annual Belize Birding Festival at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel this October 19 and 20. The Festival provided an opportunity for international and local birders to participate in birding tours, sit on presentations from renowned guest speakers, engage in bird identification workshops, and attend exhibition booths displayed by hoteliers, tour operators, birding clubs, and non-profit organizations. This year’s Belize Birding Festival was a two-day activity-filled event which took advantage of the bird migration taking place in Belize during this peak season.

    Belize Tourism Board Holds its National Belize Tourism Awards
    The Belize Hotel Association was pleased to witness our members receiving awards at the National Belize Tourism Board Awards. With over 200 people attending, it was a glorious night filled with laughter, celebration, and encouragement. Belize’s Wealth at The National Tourism Awards Gala Event was unquestionably one of the most glamorous and tasteful night of the year, held at Caribbean Motors on Saturday night October 19, 2019, the gala was hosted by Ms. Indira Craig & Mr. John Palacio. With top-of-the-line musical entertainment and dinner prepared by Belize’s well-known Chef, Sean Kuylen, guests arrived from all regions of Belize, including honoured guests, Mr. Manuel Heredia Jr. (Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation), Hon. Patrick Faber (Minister of Education, Youth, Sports & Culture), Deputy Prime Minister Dean Barrow and wife Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, Special Envoy for Women and Children.

    Changes in Prices of Fuel Products
    The Ministry of Finance announces that effective October 23, 2019, pump prices of three fuel products will change. The prices for Premium Gasoline and Diesel will register increases while Regular Gasoline will register a decrease as follows: Premium Gasoline will increase by 38 cents from $10.59 to $10.97 per gallon; Regular Gasoline will decrease by 22 cents from $10.27 to $10.05 per gallon; and Diesel will increase by 8 cents from $10.01 to $10.09 per gallon. The price for Kerosene will remain unchanged at $7.42 per gallon.

    Corozal Family Fun Day
    The Child Advisory Board along with the Corozal Town Council cordially invites everyone to the Family Fun Day to be held on Saturday, 16th November, 2019. Support our young people as they promote this healthy and wholesome family event.

    BTB at the FCCA Cruise Conference
    In San Juan, Puerto Rico.

    ALL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES CAVES ARE PRESENTLY CLOSED TODAY
    ALL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES CAVES ARE PRESENTLY CLOSED AS A FLASH FLOOD PRECAUTION. HEAVY RAIN CONTINUES ANOTHER UPDATE WILL BE PROVIDED AT 8AM.

    Sip & Support: a Domestic Violence Awareness Benefit Day
    Join us at Wayo's on Thursday, October 24, for Domestic Violence Awareness Day, supporting The Empower through Love Project, in collaboration with Mpulse Studio. We will have purple drink specials and purple ribbons for you to wear to show awareness of this epidemic that 1 in 3 women endure. Proceeds will support The Empower through Love Project, an organization, in collaboration with Hope Haven, that teaches our teens how to Live Outside of Violence through Empowerment. Let's come together to promote awareness and learn about community programs that are available to offer women and teens the support they need to get help and heal from unhealthy relationships.

    Channel 7

    Mentally Ill Man Kills 17 Year Old Cousin
    A young man was killed at "I and I Bar" on Caye Caulker last night. And while that may have you thinking that he died in some drunken brawl, in fact, 17 year old Issac Marin was sleeping in his bed. He was the son of the bar's proprietor, and how he was killed is among one of the worst tragedies that could befall a family: the killer was his mentally ill cousin. Here is that story from Caye Caulker.

    City Man's Found Dead At Vista Del Mar
    A man was shot and killed and his body thrown on the Vista Del Mar Boulevard in Ladyville in what is believed to be a gang related killing. The victim is 27 year old Belama Resident Brandon Bennett. Last night around 8:00, a man spotted Bennett's body on the Vista Del Mar Boulevard in a pool of blood and alerted the police. Bennett had been shot in the head. We do not have much information at this time regarding what Bennett was doing in Ladyville and what the motive for his murder is, but we found out a bit more about his character. He had participated in Diane Finnegan's apprenticeship program and we spoke with her via phone today about Bennett.

    Hugo Patt and Tracy Taegar Panton Will Face Off for First Deputy
    Tonight, things are a lot more interesting in the UDP race for executive posts. That's after Corozal North's Hugo Patt submitted his name for First Deputy Leader. As expected, that puts him on a collision course with Tracy Taegar Panton who put in her name yesterday. Patt will declare his support for John Saldivar and is part of his unofficial slate. And, sources tell us, Taegar-Panton was supposed to be a part of that too, the candidate for second deputy. But, Taegar Panton scrapped that script when she jumped out yesterday and submitted her name for first deputy. So, now, she and Patt will face off for that post and the party's 460 delegates who will make the choice in February of 2020. But, Taegar Panton is likely going into an executive headwind, because, as we reported yesterday, the powerful hands in the background which are shaping the new executive are with Hugo Patt, not her.

    The Mason Muddle Becoming Clearer
    Last night, we told you about the latest developments in the murder trial without a jury for William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Keron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo. After many months of extensive witness testimony, and a few unavoidable delays, the trial is set to conclude at the end of this week. At its conclusion, Justice Antoinette Moore will deliberate and decided whether these men are innocent or guilty of the 2016 beheading murder of Pastor Llewellyn Lucas. The very last pieces of evidence were entered today when the court recalled the scenes-of-crime technician who was assigned to carry out the necessary forensic work for this case.

    Bert Vasquez Back To Court of Appeal
    And while that happened in Belmopan Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal held a preliminary hearing for Bert Vasquez in Belize City. He's appealing his conviction for forcible abduction and aggravated assault of an indecent nature that got him a 10 year sentence.

    Activist Says Health Regs Leave Belizean With Inferior Pharmaceuticals
    The Food and Drugs Regulations of 2017 had a meaningful effect on the pharmaceutical industry in Belize - affecting everything from the brands of drugs that can be imported, down to where you can find it in your favorite pharmacy. The new regime of standards for the local pharmaceutical industry is designed to create a safer, standardized supply of pharmaceuticals, but it has created significant market and supply shifts. That's caused monetary losses for big suppliers and confusion for consumers who cannot find the drugs they want in the regular brand names, or from the manufacturers they trust.

    The Settlement Of the Phillip Golden Highway, An Area of Concern
    The Phillip Goldson highway between the airport and Belize City has undergone a 20+ million dollar overhaul - but a part of it is already sinking. Well, the engineers call it settlement, and it's a standard feature of that highway between miles three and four. Yesterday in Belmopan, we asked the CEO in the Ministry of Works about the problem which the opposition raised in the house three weeks ago. HE said they knew there would be settlement, but they didn't expect it would happen so quickly:

    Man Gets off Cosme Murder Charge
    He was accused last year of the stabbing murder of 44-year-old Samuel Elias Zelada Cosme, but tonight 33-year-old Relnard Ferguson out free after spending months on remand. You may remember the case from last year. Cosme, a Honduran national, a husband and a father of 3, was found dead early on the morning of July 23rd. The cops discovered his body, which was lying next to his Ford Ranger pick-up truck at mile 5 and a half on the Philip Goldson Highway.

    17 Years For Murder Downgraded to Manslaughter
    And while that accused man walks, 25-year-old Stephan Jenkins who has been on remand for the murder of Dennis Williams has been sentenced to 17 years in jail for the lesser charge of manslaughter. 54-year-old Dennis Williams was the casualty of an armed robbery, which happened on November 8th, 2012. He was on the job when 4 men, including Jenkins, stormed the poultry enterprise's compound on Vernon Street. They were attempting to rob the business place, and in the process, Williams was shot and killed.

    Shooting Victim Disappears, Alleged Shooter Gets Off
    He was charged with use of deadly means of harm, but when the victim and main witness failed to show up, 27 year old Hugh Phillip Thomas aka "Angel" didn't even need a lawyer to got off yesterday. In March of 2014, it was alleged that Thomas shot Hortence Lynch who was 17 years old at the time. She was at a basketball court with two men when she heard a gunshot and the men beside her dashed.

    AG Wants To be UDP Chairman
    And, in an update to a story we ran in our top segment, the race for the leadership in the UDP continues to take shape at this hour. Reliable reports to our newsroom are that Attorney General, Michael Peyrefitte will send in his application for the post of Party Chairman tomorrow.

    The Book of Benjy Has Many Lessons
    Mental illness isn't on the list of the most comfortable and widely discussed topics in Belize. But Kathy Esquivel wrote an entire novel centered on this topic among other pressing social issues. Esquivel is a founding member of the Mental Health Association and the wife of former Prime Minister of Belize Manuel Esquivel.

    Chester In Chile
    Last week Commissioner Of Police Chester Williams attended the 88th Interpol General Assembly in Santiago Chile. Yesterday he gave the press a brief recap of that trip including a word or two about how he's doing after the car accident that he was involved in while there. Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police: "The conference basically involved the discussion of global law enforcement issues as well as strategies that are being developed through Interpol to be able to address the phenomena of crime worldwide..."

    Top Tourism Peeps
    The Belize Tourism Board held its 17th National Tourism Awards Gala Event on Saturday night, here in Belize City. Here are some of the winners: Martin Ack was judged the Tour Guide of the Year, while Shakira McGregor won for the front Line Personnel of the Year; Belize City's Street Art Festival won as best Major Festival and Event of the Year, while the the Hotel of the Year, was the The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, and the best Small Accommodation of the Year was Blue Marlin Beach Resort, while The Grove House Restaurant at Sleeping Giant won the Restaurant of the year.

    Fuel Price Changes
    And finally tonight we have the list of the new gas price you will pay starting tomorrow. The Ministry of Finance sent a release saying that pump prices of three fuel products will change at midnight.

    Channel 5

    A Pair of Brothers is Stabbed by Mentally Ill Cousin; Minor Dies
    A Caye Caulker was stabbed to death and his brother injured in a violent stabbing incident after midnight on Monday. Police are calling the incident a stabbing death because the [...]

    Brandon Bennett is Killed and Dumped Near Vista del Mar
    Even before the stabbing death in Caye Caulker, a Belize City man, well-known to the law, was found dead at the entrance of Vista del Mar on the Phillip Goldson [...]

    Bracko Bats for Big Pharma
    Former President Geovanni Brackett of the Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action, COLA, has gone the solo route as an independent activist and this morning he invited the media to [...]

    Brackett Takes Aim at Ministry of Health
    Brackett referenced a memorandum that was issued in April 2017 giving formal notice for the purchase of pharmaceuticals from designated N.H.I. providers.  He openly questions whether there have been studies [...]

    “My Position is Grassroots” – Geovanni Brackett
    So what informs Brackett’s decision to come out against the Ministry of Health which regulates and oversees the procurement and retail of pharmaceuticals across the country?  While it can be [...]

    Shortage of Anti-Retroviral Meds Reported
    While there are reports that only generic meds are being imported,  there are also concerns growing among persons living with HIV/AIDS as reports suggest that the anti-retroviral medication have depleted [...]

    Still No Answer from M.O.H. over HIV/AIDS Meds Shortage
    Director of CNET+ Diego Grajalez says that he has written to the Ministry of Health and the National AIDS Commission to ascertain what is the issue with the procurement of [...]

    Mason’s Trial Winds Down; Attorney Ready for Closing
    William “Danny” Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Kieron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo were back in the Belmopan Supreme Court today as the trial continued.  As we reported on Monday, the [...]

    Bhrea Bowen Asks Court of Appeal to Increase Compensation
    In July 2018, Supreme Court Justice Shona Griffith ruled in favour of Bhrea Bowen who successfully sued the Gang Suppression Unit for violating her constitutional rights.  In July 2012, Bowen who [...]

    No Attorney Wants to Represent Bert Vasquez
    The infamous Bert Vasquez appeared in the Court of Appeal this afternoon. Vasquez, who remains incarcerated on sex charges, appeared unrepresented to appeal a 2018 conviction for forcible abduction and [...]

    Ignatius Williams is Sentenced to 2 Years for Attempted Murder
    Ignatius Williams, a notorious figure of the Saint Martin’s de Porres area, was convicted late on Monday in the Supreme Court for the stabbing of a Field Service Technician of [...]

    Former Murder Suspect is Busted with Unlicensed Firearm
    Tonight, a former murder suspect is on remand at the Belize Central Prison after he was nabbed in Ladyville in possession of an unlicensed firearm. Thirty-one-year-old Michael Edward Pook was [...]

    Toddler Drowns in Well in Santa Cruz Village
    Three-year-old Oscar Bonilla drowned when he fell into a well in Santa Cruz Village over the weekend.  The toddler was last seen playing with another child when his mother went [...]

    Outrage in Hope Creek; Disagreement on Water Board Composition
    There is outrage in Hope Creek in southern Belize where villagers are not sitting down to allow the area representation to impose who sits on the water board.  The village [...]

    Fuel Prices Changing Again
    New prices for premium gasoline and diesel take effect at midnight. Premium gasoline will increase by thirty-eight cents and goes up ten dollars ninety-seven cents per gallon. Diesel will go [...]

    Bev for 2nd Deputy Party Leader of the U.D.P.
    On Monday, Tracy Taegar Panton, the area rep for the Albert Division in Belize City announced she is seeking the post of first deputy leader of the U.D.P. when convention [...]

    Second Annual Belize Birding Festival
    More than two hundred people gathered in San Ignacio over the weekend to talk about birds in Belize. This is the second time the birding community has come together for [...]

    CEBO Comes to Belize
    A CARICOM initiative to get youths involved in business is taking place in Belize City. This week, a group of thirty youths will be participating in the programme named Creativity [...]

    Belize Wins Gold in U-13 Volleyball at CODICADER Games
    On Monday evening, Belize’s U-thirteen Volleyball Team returned with gold from the CODICADER Games in Costa Rica.  The first place win is a big deal for the Belize team as [...]

    Amandala

    Son and friend remanded for father’s murder
    Paul Anthony Castillo, 66, a self-employed newspaper salesman of 5th Street South, Corozal Town, was socializing in his house on Saturday night with his son and his son’s friend, who came to visit him from Belize City, but something went terribly wrong. Castillo got into an argument with the two men, and inexplicably, according to police, they beat and savagely chopped Castillo in his house.

    DPP loses Calaney Flowers’ appeal
    he Director of Public Prosecutions’ appeal of the acquittal of Calaney Flowers for murder and attempted murder came up as the Court of Appeal opened this morning. In a noticeable departure from the tradition, the court heard oral submissions from the Crown, represented by Senior Crown Counsel, Sheiniza Smith, before it heard from attorney Anthony Sylvestre, who represented Calaney Flowers.

    Another drug plane lands …
    Drug planes originating from South America have been landing in Belize with alarming frequency. Yesterday, Sunday, another jet landed in the Blue Creek area of the Orange Walk District and by the time authorities found out about it, the crew and plane’s cargo were long gone. Unlike the most recent drug plane that had crash-landed and was found broken in two, there were no seats on this jet, which suggests that the plane may have had a full load of cocaine that was carted away before the arrival of Belize security forces.

    Belize wins GOLD in Volleyball at 2019 U-13 CODICADER Games in Costa Rica
    Reports coming out of Costa Rica, where the 2019 U-13 CODICADER Games concluded yesterday, are that Belize won Gold in volleyball, but had to settle for 4th place in football, after playing consecutive draw games in the finals and third place matches, losing both games in penalty shootouts. Belize was also 4th overall in Athletics. Congratulations to our GOLD medal winners in volleyball, and respect also to our gallant youngsters in football and athletics!

    At William Mason beheading trial, court gets written statement from US federal agent
    The murder trial of William Danny Mason and his four co-accused, Ashton Vanegas, Terrence and Keiron Fernandez, and Ernest Henry Castillo continued today in the Belmopan Supreme Court of Justice Antoinette Moore. The accused men are being tried for the July 2016 beheading murder of Dangriga Pastor Llewellyn Lucas, whose head was found in a bucket in the back of a pickup owned by Mason.

    Alyson Giselle Courtenay called to the Belize Bar
    The Supreme Court of Chief Justice, Hon. Kenneth Benjamin, convened this morning to hear the application of Alyson Giselle Courtenay, the latest member of the Courtenay family to be called to the Belize Bar to practice law. The application was steered through the formal court process by the father of the applicant, attorney Eamon Courtenay, S.C., and his wife, Denise Courtenay, who also spoke on her daughter’s behalf.

    Pirates drop Verdes, Bandits back on top at Week 11 of PLB Opening Season
    It was an eventful weekend of football in the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2019-2020 Opening Season, where Week 11 games saw Bandits SC regaining the top spot in the standings after their 2-0 victory over BDF; while Verdes FC fell back to second place following their 2-1 loss to defending champions San Pedro Pirates; cellar dwelling newcomers Freedom Fighters Valley Pride FC finally grabbed their first PLB victory, a 3-2 win over Placencia Assassins; and Wagiya FC kept their playoff hopes alive with a shocking 6-0 shelling of Altitude FC. There were 3 games played on Saturday night, October 19, and only 1 on Sunday.

    Pedal by Pedal report of Pan-American holiday weekend races
    t all started in Chetumal with a 3-Stage Tour on Saturday and Sunday, October 12 & 13. In the Masters Category, it was changed from age 50+ to 45 plus, so as to accommodate the many Mexican riders within that age group. Despite this, they were still to feel the wrath of the Belizean oldies but goodies. The first stage was a 5K Time Trial on Saturday morning at 7:00 a.m. in pouring rain, followed by a Circuit Race by the seaside on Saturday afternoon at 4:00 p.m., and finally, a Road Race Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. At the end of the 3 stages, it was Roque Matus of Belize taking top honors.

    Hogan plans to host Verdes FC vs L.A. Warriors match in Los Angeles next June
    Appearing on Krem Radio’s Press Cadogan Sports Show on Sunday morning, October 13, Belizean football manager/promoter Charles Hogan, on a vacation home from Los Angeles where he presently resides, said that he has met with Verdes owner Ian Haylock, and is seriously working on plans to host Verdes FC in Los Angeles next June, when a Los Angeles Warriors selection will play a friendly against the Verdes team.

    Editorial: Vacancies for area reps: only persons with capacity and character should apply
    When present Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Senator Godwin Hulse, was a regular person, meaning he did not have the title, “honorable,” he taught us that in our governance system the vote of the person who sits in the Prime Minister’s office is not more weighty than that of any of the other 30 members in the House of Representatives (H of R). We interpreted that to mean that we cannot lay all the blame for failures on — or give all the credit/glory for successes to — the person who holds the highest office in the land.

    GoB’s idea of pathway only knocks nothing to hell
    When I was young I used to hear my dad say of things that were far from the best but better than nothing at all, “it knocks nothing to hell.” I am told that the MoW (Ministry of Works) is doing measurements on the side of this crazy road passing through Camalote and they are doing it to put in a concrete sidewalk. Yes, that knocks nothing to hell. I worry when I question the intelligence and/or integrity of others. I really don’t like it. The road passing through villages out here is a highway, not a city or town street.

    From British Honduras to Belize: one family’s drama
    I believe that anyone who pays attention to such things will agree that the greatest obstacle to genuinely good relations among the people of this country is racial prejudice, and that this has been so as far back as anyone can remember. It is ever present, although very subtle. Everyone is affected by it, either directly or indirectly, yet it is rarely acknowledged. The people who speak for us tell the world that there is no racial discrimination in the country, and the opinion of the rest of us is never even sought. “We don’t have that kind of thing here,” they assert.

    PUP Legal Advisor’s comments on PM’s letter to Opposition Leader
    Late yesterday evening, Thursday, the Government Press Office released a response from Prime Minister Dean Barrow to a letter that Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) leader, Hon. John Briceńo, had written to him in his official capacity as PUP leader. Briceno told PM Barrow that the Joshua Perdomo loan write-off was legally indefensible and morally bankrupt and that if he does not reverse his decision, the PUP would begin legal proceedings to have the court set aside the write-off.

    “Sleep it out” with the homeless
    The Mental Health Association Welcome Resource Center, located on Tibruce Street, gives assistance and support to homeless people and those suffering from mental challenges, and is raising awareness about the struggles of these people, through the “sleep outdoor on the concrete, on cardboard” activity, which is in its second year. The “Sleep-out” was first scheduled for October 12, but due to the rains, it was postponed, and the new date that was set for the activity is Friday, November 8. The sleep-out will be held at the Memorial Park.

    Ramon Flota, 29, remanded for murder of Samir Diaz, 32
    Ramon Flota, 29, a laborer of San Lazaro, Orange Walk District, who was wanted for the heinous murder of fellow villager and farmer Hazid Samir Diaz, 32, was remanded until December 17 for murder when he was arraigned on the capital offense today before Senior Magistrate Patty Arana, of the Orange Walk Magistrate’s Court. Flota was accused of drinking with Diaz in the village, chopping and stabbing him to death, and then burying him in a shallow grave just on the outskirts of the village.

    The Reporter

    Big Winner Of FANTASY 5 Gets $397K
    For several weeks many Belizeans watched as the Fantasy5 Lottery game steadily climbed from $200,000.00 to $300,000.00 and then almost $400,000.00, as more and more people began noticing that there were no winners for several months, since July 11th.

    LOVE FM

    Oceana discusses their campaign at AGM
    Oceana Belize has been a prominent organization in regards to sustainable living and being ecofriendly. Their mandate is to protect one of Belize’s biggest resources: the Caribbean Sea.

    17-year-old boy killed by his own cousin
    A Caye Caulker family is reeling from a tragic stabbing incident that left one of their own dead and another hospitalized. Last night, sometime around 11 o’clock, 17-year-old Isaac Marin was sleeping in his home on Luciano Reyes Street when his mentally ill cousin reportedly came into the room and stabbed him.

    Governor General takes a trip to Japan
    The Governor-General H.E. Sir Colville Young left Belize on Saturday on a trip to Japan. He joined heads of state at the invitation of Japan to witness the enthronement ceremony of a new Japanese Emperor today.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Government announces change in gas prices
    The Ministry of Finance announced that effective midnight, pump prices of three fuel products will change. […]

    Alarm raised on difficulties of accessing pharmaceutical products
    Belize’s Ministry of Health’s regulations for importing pharmaceutical products have proven too onerous, according to […]

    Police investigating murder in Ladyville
    Police are investigating the murder of a Ladyville resident that occurred last night. Around 7:43 […]

    Two persons stabbed in Caye Caulker, one dead
    Police are investigating a stabbing incident that occurred last night in Caye Caulker. According to […]

    Businessman robbed at gunpoint in Orange Walk
    Businessman Efrain Amaya of Carmelita Village, Orange Walk reported to police that on Monday, October […]

    Taiwan brings new trade opportunities to Belize
    The Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan […]

    Ministry of Health celebrates Dental Health Week 2019
    The Ministry of Health is commemorating Dental Health Week 2019 from October 20 to 26. […]

    Hondurans busted for fishing in Belizean waters
    Southern Environmental Association (SEA) issued a report today informing that on October 18, the Belize […]

    Remembering Leela Vernon, a National Hero
    Today, the Queen of Bruckdown, Leela Vernon MBE, would have celebrated her 69th birthday. However, […]

    Mother of 5 wins Fantasy 5
    A lucky mother of 5 won the grand prize of $397,000 in Fantasy 5. Mayra […]

    3-year-old falls into well and drowns
    On Saturday, a 3-year-old child from Santa Cruz Village fell into a well and drowned. […]

    “Mason claims he’s being framed by John Saldivar,” says US Agent
    There is more controversy emerging from the sensational murder trial of William “Danny” Mason, as […]

    Blogs

    The Most BEAUTIFUL Late October Day
    Yesterday I woke up…it was like most other October Mondays. I checked the National Hurricane Center to see if anything new had popped up on the radar – it IS that time of year in the Western Caribbean and Central America. I slathered up with bug spray and took the dogs for a walk – mornings have been buggy up north. We headed to town with a bunch of errands to run deciding that we’d stop into Lily’s Treasure Chest for lunch. It IS the beginning of conch season and their conch ceviche is unparalleled in my opinion – simple perfection.

    Discovering Shades of Blue with Maya’s Blue Hole Tour
    The Great Blue Hole has become a famous dive site, both locally and worldwide. It is now ranked as number one on The Discovery list of “The 10 most amazing places on Earth. Measuring 1,000 feet across and approximately 43 miles from Belize City, this stunning aquatic phenomenon has a maximum depth of approximately 450 ft. The tour with Maya encompasses mecca scenic views of the Barrier Reef, Shark Ray Alley, Turneffe Atoll, the Ocean Freighter Wreck and the Lighthouse Reef, a historical reminder of pirates and the colonial years. Get a chance to soak up a bird’s eye view of the jewel as a co-pilot or a window sitter and watch in awe as the different shades of turquoise blue mists the eyes and turns in a deep navy.

    Thanksgiving Belizean Style!
    Thanksgiving traditions have circled the globe and though it is not officially a holiday in Belize, the small country does celebrate Thanksgiving! It is very similar to the US and is also celebrated in November. Thanksgiving is a special time for family and friends who come together to give thanks to the blessings bestowed upon them and to share an elegant, tasty meal. Like Americans and Canadians, Belizeans cook up a storm on this day. The most iconic part of the traditional Thanksgiving feast is the turkey and ham which is why you’d often hear a Belizean say, “Turkey Dinner” and not Thanksgiving Dinner. While the classic rice and beans is a part of this meal, Belizeans incorporate their own twist to the dish by substituting marshmallow sweet potatoes, vegetables, and pumpkin pie..

    Belize International Tiki Festival 2019
    Belizes 1st Rum and Distilled Cane Festival showcasing Caribbean and Latin American Rums will take place at Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel, 24 October– 26 October. Mr. Emir Sosa, bartender of the year in Belize, with his common passion and love for mixology and the urge to contribute to his beloved country Belize, initiates a new technique that would elevate the standards of presenting elaborate cocktails to the fast-growing tourism industry.

    International Sourcesizz

    National Guard increased along Mexico, Belize border
    Approximately 100 elements of the National Guard were deployed along the banks of the Rio Hondo after authorities there discovered another abandoned plane believed used in a recent drug run. Approximately 100 elements of the National Guard were deployed along the banks of the Rio Hondo after authorities there discovered another abandoned plane believed used in a recent drug run. The small plane, which they say has a load capacity of 1.5 tons, was discovered Sunday about four kilometers from La Unión along the Belize border with Mexico. Authorities reported the discovery of the already unloaded plane, which they believe landed during the early morning hours undetected.

    Taiwan Brings New Trade Opportunities to Belize
    Entrusted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is pleased to announce the participation of 10 Taiwanese enterprises in the Expo Taiwan 2019 (Belize), November 1-3 at Caribbean Motors 3.5 Miles Philip Goldson Highway in Belize City. 2019 marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Belize. To celebrate this great landmark, we will offer visitors a three-day tasting of Taiwan Bubble Tea, sponsored by Sunjuice Co. Ltd., the leading supplier in the food service industry. Sunjuice Co. Ltd. is devoted to maintaining the quality and stability of their products, and committed to staying on trend with market research.

    New initiative to stamp out illness for travelers
    On Monday, the CDC announced it would help screen patients for certain illnesses in the countries of Belize, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic if those patients present with certain symptoms such as fever, diarrhea and joint pain or body aches. The CDC hopes to get more information as to exactly how prevalent those diseases are and where they are occurring so healthcare providers can focus how they treat those patients and prevent other people from getting sick.

    Burn victim, physical therapist at Shriners Hospitals for Children develop enduring bond
    When Michelle was 9 years old, her face, hands and upper body were gravely burned in a kitchen accident at her home on San Pedro Island in Belize. Her father’s boss quickly arranged for Michelle to be flown to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Boston, where she spent seven months undergoing countless surgeries and extensive skin grafts. Those dark weeks and months were foggy, but there’s one thing Michelle remembers clearly: all the love and care she received from her physical therapist, Lori Turgeon. The pair quickly formed a lasting bond.

    Videos

  • Travel to Belize, 6min. A travel vlog to Belize

  • Caye Caulker murder, 2min. It was a shocking news on caye Caulker when we heard of a stabbing incident that caused one injury and one fatality at the Marin's Residence on Luciano Reyes Street. 17 year old Issac Marin was killed by his cousin Jamie Marin who suffers mental illness. Carlos Marin, brother of the deceased was critically injured and rushed to the KHMH.

  • KTV Latino season 4 episode 3, 2hr18min.

  • Police LinkUp Oct. 22, 2019, 64min.

  • The 2020 Belize Writers Conference, 2min. Come to Belize and take your writing career to the next level! April 25 - 30, 2020.

  • TURNEFFE FLATS FLY FISHING LODGE, 18min. Turneffe Island in Northern Belize. This island is mostly secluded and very expensive.

  • Stephanie M. Jones Post Keynote Address Media Interviews at Belize Tourism Board Annual Tourism Conference, 2.5min.

  • La Isla Bonia feat Brevi, 5min. Shot in San Pedro Belize

  • DECREASE OF BELIZEAN VISITORS TO CHETUMAL CAUSES ECONOMIC IMBALANCE, 4min.

  • Scuba Belize, 4min.

    October 22, 2019


    FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

    Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

    Specials and Events

    Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.


    The San Pedro Sun

    Wolfe’s Woofer: Overheard
    “Good morning,” I said. “Good morning to you,” said the older tourist. He and his wife were taking seats at the table in front of me on the deck at seaside restaurant. “What are you two talking about?” his wife asked, cupping her hand behind her ear. “He said ‘good morning’ Peggy,” the man said loudly. To me he said, “Please excuse her. She’s hard of hearing.” “You need to speak up,” she said.

    Doctor Love: Marriage and Gossip
    Dear Doctor Love, I have been married to my husband for forty-five years and I’ve always known he has flings with other women. We’ve talked about it and agree that we stopped being lovers long ago, but we are still very good friends. We have a comfortable life and neither of us wishes to leave. He’s always discrete and I am free to pursue my own interests. We’ve settled into a “don’t ask—don’t tell” understanding and we are both happy with that.

    Ambergris Today

    Belize Hosts 5th Annual Multinational Security Cooperation Conference In San Pedro
    On Friday, October 18, 2019, The Ministry of National Security (Defence) hosted the 5th Annual Multinational Security Cooperation Conference at the Grand Caribe Belize Suites & Residences in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. The main objective of the conference was to share Belize’s national security strategic vision, accomplishments and requirements with its allies and partners. The cooperation dialogue emphasized security and military partnership in the areas of capacity building, leadership and management, as well as institutional strengthening for the Belize Defence Force, the Belize Coast Guard and the Joint Intelligence Operations Centre.

    Close Encounters At Sea (Survival Stories) Pt.3
    In the 1970's and 1980's the San Pedro's Caribena Fishing Cooperative was the leading producer of lobster in Belize. In the early 1970's Gonzalo "Chalo" Valdez Sr. and his crew of four were returning from a fishing trip down south with their vessel, La Luisa, with a full load of 600 pounds of frozen lobster tails. They were crossing from Glover's Reef heading to the channel "quebrado" that is in front of San Pedro. These were all sea experts and seasoned fishermen but in rough weather and ten feet waves even the professionals can be put to test. Three rolling waves caught the Luisa just 200 hundred feet from the channel. The first forced them to swerve sideways.

    Various Belizean Sources

    mzz

    Ambergris Caye winners for this year's BTB National Tourism Awards
    Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council would like to congratulate all the winners for this year's BTB National Tourism Awards. Congratulations to Grand Caribe on their win for Top Performing Hotel of the Year. Congratulations to the San Pedro Tour Guide Association on their win for the Tour Guide Association of the Year. Congratulations to Mrs. Kelly McDermott Kanabar on her win for this year's Minister's Award. Also, we would like to congratulate the nominees and everyone in the Tourism industry for their every day work and keeping alive the industry.

    Statement From The Ministry of National Security On Suspect Drug Plane Landings
    “On a daily basis there are members of the security forces of Belize deployed to intercept planes attempting to land illegally in Belize. These planes are suspected to have drugs on board destined for the North American market. Belize does not yet have military radar tracking capability. In the time being Belize relies on an external regional network that generates tracking information as soon as suspect planes leave South America. “These aircraft must offload their cargo somewhere in Central America or Mexico after which it is transported overland to the North. Once information of a suspect plane tracking its way towards Belize is received, our security forces deploy to as many possible landing sites as our human resources allow.

    Annual BTB Conference focused on Cultural Immersion
    Tourism Industry stakeholders and international marketing experts converged at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel on Friday, Oct 18 to discuss a wide-range of issues important to the local industry as part of this year’s BTB annual Tourism Conference which saw a record attendance of over 200 participants. The conference evolved from the BTB’s strategic plan on equipping stakeholders with pertinent and relevant information for the industry’s enhancement. The one-day conference was held under the theme: Destination Marketing & the Impact on our Belize Market.

    GOB Signs Contract with Taiwanese Firm for the Upgrading of the Corozal/Sarteneja Road
    The Government of Belize (GOB) today signed a contract with Taiwanese firm, Overseas Engineering and Construction Company Limited S.A. (OECC), for the upgrade of the Corozal/Sarteneja Road. The contract signing follows the signing of a loan agreement between the Government of Belize and the Export-Import Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan) (EXIM Bank) for a sum of US$50M on September 9th, 2019 for the road project. OECC has extensive road construction experience in the Caribbean and Central American regions.

    Partial Remission of Land Tax Arrears Programme 2019/2020

    The Government of Belize Hosts the Belize -Taiwan Agriculture Investment Mission
    The Government of Belize, through the Ministry with responsibility for Investment, Trade and Commerce, along with the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), continues its partnership with the Republic of China (Taiwan) through the second investment mission under the theme, “The Belize Agricultural Investment Mission”. The Mission, which includes delegates visiting from both Taiwan and the Taiwanese Community in North America, is scheduled to take place from October 20th to 26th and commenced with a handing over of funds ceremony on Friday, October 11th, 2019 at the Belize Training & Employment Centre (BTEC). The first investment mission under the theme, “The Belize Tourism Investment Mission” was successfully executed in June 2019.

    Exodus Water Taxi
    New water taxi timetable (starting Tuesday 22nd October 2019). New Water Taxi (San Pedro - Sarteneja - Corozal) starting Tuesday 22nd October. Exodus Water Taxi Prices:

    Caye Caulker Volunteer Fire Service Training
    Volunteer Service Training is set for Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019

    Caye Caulker Village Council update
    The Children's park now have lights so you can take your children to the park in the evenings. They are automated so it turns on/off automatically. Our staff is doing an excellent job in keeping the children's park maintained. We have commence working on the streets in Bahia and will continue to do so later in this week. We ask for your patience as the little rain have done major damages to our streets.

    Corozal Football Association Week 7 Schedule
    It all happens at the Carolina Football Field, Sunday, October 27th, 2019 starting at 9:00 a.m. sharp.

    Job Opening at BEL
    A vacancy exists for the post of Manager, Finance in the Finance Department of Belize Electricity Limited.

    Citizen Science Program aimed at protecting scarlet macaws
    With support from Adventure Travel Conservation Fund, World Nomads and the British Embassy in Belize, FCD has launched a Citizen Science Program aimed at protecting scarlet macaws. If you are interested in volunteering for the 2020 season, contact us at fcd@btl.net

    Oceana's Annual General Meeting 2019
    Belizeans from across the country came out in waves to the Saint Catherine Academy Auditorium in Belize City to participate in Oceana’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of its dedicated volunteers, our “Wavemakers”. Over four hundred Wavemakers from Corozal, Orange Walk, Belize, Cayo, Stann Creek and Toledo districts, as well as from Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye attended this year’s event. During the AGM, several Wavemakers were awarded certificates of appreciation for their sensational, above and beyond support for Oceana’s campaigns and initiatives over the past year. Among the awardees were Nancy Aguilar from Corozal; Phinehas Sylvania from Orange Walk; Larsha Pascascio from the Belize District; Charlotte Jones from Caye Caulker; the Sacred Heart College Interact Club from San Ignacio; Russel Murray Jr. from Stann Creek and Royoko Kimura from Toledo. Oceana was also proud to recognize Mrs. Yvetter Sanker Riverol as the National Wavemaker of the year.

    Channel 7

    US Federal Agent: Mason Says Saldivar Framing Him
    The murder trial of William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Keron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo finally resumed today in Belmopan before Justice Antoinette Moore. It had been on pause for several weeks while the court waited to hear from a witness who was an employee of the US Embassy. The court had to go through the diplomatic channels to get that written statement which was tendered into evidence this morning. The witness, who is a US Federal Agent, says that Belize police contacted him to assist with a US national who was the victim of a crime in Belize. That was David Dodd - who has testified via Skype that he accompanied Pastor Lucas and another man to Mason's Intelco Hill Home on the day that Pastor Lue was decapitated.

    Another Empty Narco Jet, Another Mystery
    Tonight Belizeans all over are shaking their heads with a weary nod - like, "another drug plane!?" Yup, that's right. Early on Sunday morning, another narco-jet was found abandoned on a road in Blue Creek. No drugs, no passengers, just the jet. It's the 7th drug plane to land this year, and about the 20th since 2018 - and its appearance has so many Belizeans saying, it's just too much, too often, too out of control. And that's why the Commissioner of police held a press conference today in Belmopan. Cherisse Halsall reports: Before Dawn on Sunday another plane, this time a Hawker Siddeley 125, was abandoned in the Blue Creek area of Orange Walk.

    UDP's Tracy Defies Expectation, Seeks First Deputy Seat
    Tonight, there is a an interesting wrinkle in the UDP power matrix. Tracy Taegar Panton surprised many this morning at 8:00 when she went to the UDP headquarters to submit her name as a candidate for First Deputy Leader. She did so - by her account - as an unaligned candidate - tethered to neither Patrick Faber nor John Saldivar - who are the two aspirants for leader. If it is indeed a solo move, it is a big one; after all Taegar-Panton just entered electoral politics as a UDP in 2015; her roots are PUP, with whom she worked for over a decade.

    66 Year Old Murdered By Relatives
    Five are dead after another weekend of too many traumatic deaths and shooting incidents. We start with the weekend's only murder. The victim was 66 year old Paul Castillo - who was viciously chopped to death inside his small home on south Street in Corozal Town. Today, two Belize City men were taken to Corozal Magistrate's court for the murder, and one of the suspects is a relative. On Friday night, 47 year old Earl Bowden, a plumber from Buttonwood Bay and 38 year old Norman Justo Castillo a tour guide from Belama were socializing with his relative, Paul Castillo when things suddenly took a turn. They beat and chopped up the senior citizen, leaving him dead in his underwear on his bed. >

    Man Knocked Down On Way To Store
    A trip to the store turned fatal for a 54 year old Hattieville man. He was riding his bicycle to the store when he was knocked down and killed at mile 17 on the Western Highway. The victim is Balveno Fermin. His son was one of the first responders. Courtney Weatherburne spoke to him today. Here's here story. This morning Louis Bowen took us to the scene where his father, Balbino Fermin died Fermin's slippers and t-shirt still thrown on the side of the road.

    Man Arraigned For Fatal Accident
    Police today told the press that they detained the driver of the SUV that hit and fatally injured Balveno Fermin. Here is the commander of National Crimes Investigation, ACP Jospeh Myvette: "What the police know so far is that Fermin was eastbound toward Hativille when he was knocked down behind off his bicycle by a black SUV type vehicle that was coming in the same direction. That driver has since been detained pending the investigation into this fatal traffic accident."

    Car - Truck Collision Leads To Road Death
    There was also a fatal accident in Pomona village on Friday night where an 80 year old man lost his life. The victim was also riding a bicycle. Late Friday evening, Nigerian Samuel King crashed into a black Toyota driven by 54 year old John Castillo. They collided at mile 11 on the Hummingbird Highway. ."

    Another Stann Creek Fatal
    And yet another fatal traffic accident in the Dangriga area but this one is a hit and run. And, again, the victim was riding a bicycle. On Friday night 62 year old Fidel Padilla was knocked down by an unknown vehicle between miles 3 and 4 on the Stann Creek Valley Road. Today Police told us that they are seeking the public's help with any information regarding this accident and Padilla's death.

    Toddler Falls In Well, Drowns
    And while the weekend was filled with fatal accidents and several shootings, the village of Santa Cruz saw a different but perhaps more devastating tragedy. A 3-year-old child drowned at the bottom of a well in at his home in Santa Cruz, Stann Creek. His mother had just lost sight of him for a few moments as she prepared the midday meal. She called the police to report her son missing. That's when they visited the home. They told us what they found when they got there.

    Robber Terrorized Business, Got Nothing Except Charged
    It didn't make the news last week - but there was a scary - and hapless - armed robbery attempt at Matus Travels on Barrack Rd. It was all captured on camera, when, around 5:00, a suspicious man walked into the travel agency asking about boat tickets for Caye Caulker. The owner tried to show him out, the the traveler turned robber took out what appeared to be a pistol and demanded money.

    Calaney Walked Out of Appeals Court Free Again
    Turning now from crime To Court News, Calaney Flowers was back in the court of appeal today. She's the woman who had been acquitted of her former boyfriend's murder in March of 2017. In 2012, Lyndon Morrison died when he was hit from behind as he and his new girlfriend were traveling on his motorcycle on Freetown Road in Belize City. Flowers was the person driving the car that hit Morrison and his girlfriend, Sochyl Sosa. In one of his final judgements, Justice John Gonzalez acquitted her after a full trial. The DPP's office has been determined to appeal that acquittal and matter came up today at the Court of Appeal.

    Denfield Was First of Four To Get Shot in Bze District
    Turning back now to crime - there were four shooting in the city and Ladyville this weekend - luckily none of them fatal. On Friday night at around 10:40pm, 30 year old Denfield Tasher was shot to the left lower back. It happened in the area of Lows supermarket, Ladyville and that's where police found Tasher lying on the street suffering from the gunshot. They shared details from Tasher's report earlier today.

    Medwood Survived Shooting
    There was another shooting on Friday night. This one happened around 9:30 when a game of chance was interrupted by a sound of a bullet slicing through the air. 21 year old Tyrique Medwood and another man were playing dice when an assailant approached them and fired a shot in their direction injuring Medwood. The gunman then ran in the direction of Sittee Street. Police provided more details.

    Buller Shot On Jasmine Street
    ACP Myvette also shared a few details about another shooting which happened on Saturday night on Jasmine Street - also in the city. According to the cops, the victim, 26-year-old Kevin Buller, was riding his bicycle, minding his own business, when he heard a gunshot: "On Saturday shortly after 9:30pm, police responded to an information of a shooting incident on Jasmine Street in Belize City where they met and spoke to one Kevin Buller..."

    CODICADER Gold For Belize Boys Int Costa Rica
    If you were on the Phillip Goldson Highway between 5:30 and 6:00 this evening, you'd have definitely noticed the very loud and proud motorcade making its way from Ladyville to Belize City. That's because the boys from U-13 Volleyball Team went to Costa Rica to compete in this year's Codicader Games, and they made history by winning gold. It's a big win for Team Belize, and their coaches and parents were excited to greet them at the international airport this evening when they returned.

    Mega-Contract Signed For Corozal/Sarteneja Road
    It was take 5 years and 50 million US dollars to pave the 27 miles of road between Corozal and Sarteneja. The Government today officially signed the contract with the Taiwanese firm named Overseas Engineering and Construction Company Limited. We were at the contract signing in Belmopan today and the minister told us more:

    Talking Trade and Agriculture With Taiwan
    While those papers were signed in Belmopan for the Taiwanese funded Corozal/Sarteneja road, the Ministry of Investment and Trade hope to get the Taiwanese government to invest in the agriculture sector as well. There was a ceremony at the Biltmore to welcome 10 delegates from Taiwan and North America for this year's second investment mission. They will be staying for a week to tour the country, take in all the agricultural business opportunities and hopefully invest.

    Women Cops Got to Supreme Court to Protect Hairstyles
    Attorney Anthony Sylvester is taking up the case of the women police officers who were brought up on charges for their hairstyles. They all wear their hair natural, some of them in cornrows and braids - but the police senior command said the style contravenes Section 7 of the Police Standing Orders. So they were charged for willfully disobeying a lawful command - but the disciplinary action was suspended after they lawyered up. Suspended but not cancelled, and now, they have lawyered up again to challenge the action in the Supreme Court. Sylvestre told us more:

    One More City Shooting
    In our last segment we told you about three city shootings. And here now are the details on the fourth. 23 year old Justin Marin is lucky to be alive after he was targeted in a drive by shooting in the area of the Love park in Belize City. Marin was walking on Albert Hoy Street heading toward the junction with Julis Soberanis street when he heard the roar of a vehicle engine behind him.

    Woman Won Fantasy Five
    And, finally tonight, there a Fantasy Five winner went to collect her winnings today from the October 19th draw. Mayra Carolina Solis picked up the winning prize of $397,000 dollars. She spoke off camera about what she plans to do with it:

    Channel 5

    Di Plane Land; Yes, Di Plane Land…
    In the wake of another suspected drug plane landing, the Ministry of National Security says it does not have the resources to track or intercept planes entering the airspace. On [...]

    An Elderly Man is Butchered to Death in Corozal; His Son and Another Are Arraigned for his Murder
    A sixty-six-year-old man, who lived alone, was hacked to death in the wee hours of Saturday inside his home in Corozal Town. It was a horrible murder that started after [...]

    D.P.P.’s Application to Appeal Calaney Flowers’ Acquittal Dismissed
    The Court of Appeals this morning handed down a ruling in favour of Calaney Flowers, who in 2017, was acquitted of the murder of her ex-boyfriend Lyndon Morrison. The application for [...]

    Will the D.P.P. Pursue Case Against Calaney Flowers?
    So, is this matter over for Calaney Flowers? Her attorney, Anthony Sylvestre, says that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution has a time frame of forty-two days to [...]

    P.U.P.’s Cases of Alleged Voter Registration Fraud Dismissed
    In the lower courts, Chief Magistrate Sharon Frazer this morning dismissed an application brought by the P.U.P.’s Standard Bearer for Belize Rural North, Marconi Leal, against a registered voter in [...]

    P.U.P.’s Michel Chebat says Witnesses’ Testimonies were not Enough
    Marconi Leal was represented by attorney Michel Chebat, who says that the challenge he faced, was the fact that magistrates do not allow for the registering officers to be cross-examined. [...]

    Tracy Panton for U.D.P. Deputy Leader
    While in the U.D.P., Albert Area Representative and Minister of State in the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Commerce and Economic Development, Tracy Taegar-Panton is running for Deputy Party Leader of [...]

    Fatal Accident Claims Life of Well-Known Hattieville Handyman
    Balbino Fermin, better known as “Balo” of Hattieville, was knocked down and killed over the weekend. “Balo” was riding his bike when a truck hit him from behind; he died [...]

    An Elderly Cyclist Knocked Down and Killed in Pomona
    Two persons also perished in the south in traffic accidents. An elderly man lost his life on Friday night in the Stann Creek District when he was knocked down off [...]

    Fidel Padilla is Killed in Hit & Run
    While investigators were processing the scene of the previous accident, a report of a hit and run incident was also made to Dangriga police where they observed the lifeless body [...]

    Akeem Trapp is Freed of Murder Charge
    In the Supreme Court, Akeem Trapp walked free of the murder of Ian Adolphus Junior, which occurred February twenty-sixth, 2015 on Gill Street in Belize City.  Adolphus Junior was shot [...]

    Stephan Jenkins Gets 17 Years for Manslaughter Guilty Plea; Co-Accused Awaiting Trial
    After spending almost seven years in jail, today twenty-six-year-old Stephan Jenkins pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter of fifty-four-year old Dennis Williams. On November eighth, 2012, Williams was [...]

    U.S. Federal Agent Testifies in Writing in Mason Murder Trial
    Last Tuesday, following several weeks of cooperating closely with the U.S. State Department in Washington, the Belmopan Supreme Court received a written witness testimony from a U.S. Federal Agent who [...]

    Women Police Officer Fighting Ban on Dreadlocks
    Earlier in the year, the Belize Police Department began to enforce the department’s Standard Orders regarding hairstyle and consequently banned dreadlocks. Six women police officers were accused of willfully disobeying a [...]

    Friday Night’s Shooting Victim Injured in Right Leg
    While there were no murders in Belize City, police are investigating a shooting that occurred on Friday night. It happened at around nine-thirty at the corner of Sarstoon and Ebony [...]

    Kevin Buller Shot in Belize City
    Twenty-six-year-old Kevin Buller was also shot on Saturday night in Belize City. He was riding his bicycle on Jasmine Street when the shooter pounced on him from the rear and [...]

    Shooting in Ladyville Leaves 1 Hospitalized
    A shooting on Friday night in Ladyville has left one man hospitalized. Police say that sometime around ten-thirty that night, Denfield Tasher, was on the corner of Parakeet and Tapnachick [...]

    Samuel Trapp Busted for Attempted Robbery
    A travel agency in Belize City was the scene of a brazen robbery attempt.  Police say that twenty-four-year-old Samuel Trapp entered Matus Travel & Tour Services on Barrack Road on [...]

    Belize Hosts Taiwanese Agriculture Trade Mission
    In June, a Taiwanese delegation came to Belize to look into investment opportunities in the Tourism industry.   Today, the Government, through the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce, along with [...]

    Ministry of Agriculture Sees the Potential in the Trade Mission
    C.E.O. in the Ministry of Agriculture Jose Alpuche also weighed in on the trade mission. Alpuche told the press that apart from attracting new investments and opening new markets, this [...]

    G.O.B. Signs Contract for Upgrading Corozal/Sarteneja Road
    A contract with Taiwanese firm Overseas Engineering and Construction Company Limited for the upgrade of the Corozal/Sarteneja Road was signed today by the Government of Belize.  The brief ceremony follows [...]

    James Adderly with the Sporting Events of the Weekend
    Good evening, I’m James Adderly and this is Sports Monday. [Highlights of the weekend sporting events...]

    The Reporter

    Body Found On U.S-Mexico Border May Be Belizean
    A body of a male person was found in the Rio Grand river, which forms part of the U.S – Mexico border. The river is also known as the Rio Bravo by Mexicans. The body is believed to be a Belizean because of the identity documents found on him.

    Child Drowns In Well
    Police are investigating the death of a child in the community of Santa Cruz in the Stann Creek district. Acting on information received around 1:00pm Saturday, Police visited a home in Santa Cruz where they saw the body of Oscar Jadiel Sandoval Bonilla, 3.

    City Men Detained In Corozal Murder
    Two men, one a plumber from Buttonwood Bay and the other a tour guide from Belama Phase 2 in Belize City, have been detained for questioning in a vicious murder which occurred early this morning in Corozal Town.

    LOVE FM

    Three year old drowns in well
    A three year old tragically lost his life after he fell and drowned in a well. The incident occurred in Santa Cruz, Stann Creek District after his mother turned her attention away for about twenty minutes.

    Calany Flowers walks away from charges and is a free woman
    Calaney Flowers has been freed once again by the courts after the Director of Public Prosecutions appealed the not-guilty judgement handed down in 2017. The case which is over seven years old began unfolding on August 28, 2012 when Flowers drove her car on Freetown Road, hitting her ex-boyfriend and his girlfriend off a motorcycle.

    Two minors involved in strange case of rape
    Love News has received reports of a rape incident that occurred last night in the rural parts of the Stann Creek District. Correspondent Harry Arzu is on the ground gathering additional details.

    Man is knocked off bicycle in the West
    The third traffic accident happened just outside Hattieville, Belize District. Another man was knocked off his bicycle.

    PUP suffers another lose in the voters’ list case
    The People’s United Party (PUP) lost another round in court after they sought to challenge some names on the voters’ list for the Belize Rural North division. The matter was filed in court on behalf of the PUP’s Standard Bearer, Marconi Leal.

    Tracy Panton runs for UDP Deputy Party Leader
    Minister of Investment, Trade and Commerce, Tracy Taegar Panton, has stated that she will be running for the position of First Deputy Party Leader for the United Democratic Party. Taegar has decided to run for the position when the party calls its National Convention in February 2020.

    Two men killed in traffic accidents in the south
    Three fatal road traffic accidents occurred over this past weekend. The first two were both in the Stann Creek District, on Friday night.

    Taiwanese Stakeholders seek investment opportunities in Belize
    Taiwanese stakeholders are looking to invest in Belize’s agriculture sector. Today, the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) launched its Agriculture investment mission. The mission aims to provide investors with the proper data about the investment opportunities in Belize’s agriculture sector.

    Another suspected drug plane lands in the north
    The Ministry of National Security issued a statement yesterday which outlined that issues the police face when dealing with suspected drug planes. The statement attributed majority of the issues to lack of resources.

    Man allegedly chopped by son
    An elderly man was beaten and killed inside his home over the weekend. Police’s quick response has led to the arrest of two men suspected to be the killers in this incident. Unconfirmed reports suggest that one of the men arrested is Castillo’s son.

    Breaking Belize NewsPJ

    Man shot and killed in Ladyville last night
    A man was shot and killed in Ladyville, Belize District last night. He has been […]

    Governor General on official visit to Japan
    Belize’s Governor-General, Colville Young left Belize on Saturday, October 19, 2019 to travel to Japan, […]

    Mexican authorities increase presence at border with Belize due to increase narco-jet landings
    Local media houses in Chetumal, Quintana Roo are reporting that the Guardia Nacional (Mexican military) […]

    Government signs contract with Taiwanese firm for upgrading of Corozal/ Sarteneja road
    The Government of Belize (GOB) today signed a contract with Taiwanese firm, Overseas Engineering and Construction […]

    Court dismisses DPP’s appeal in Calaney Flowers case
    After seven years of legal battles, Calaney Flowers, who was accused of the murder of […]

    Former Dangriga Mayor passes away
    Former Mayor of Dangriga Town, Simeon Noralez, better known as “Sex” has passed away. During […]

    Oceana hosts 2019 Annual General Meeting and honors ‘wavemakers’
    Belizeans from across the country gathered at the Saint Catherine Academy Auditorium in Belize City […]

    Saint Martin’s Credit Union donates brand new motorcycle to San Ignacio Police
    Saint Martin’s Credit Union (SMCU) in San Ignacio, Cayo has donated a brand-new motorcycle to […]

    Councilor Allan Pollard addresses youth at SJCJC
    Belize City Councilor, Allan Pollard, is perhaps the youngest politician elected at the municipal level. […]

    Tracy Panton for UDP Deputy Leader!
    The race for leadership of the United Democratic Party is in full swing. With Collet’s […]

    Candice Pitts banners stolen and damaged in Mesop
    The race for the Mesopotamia constituency is being hotly contested by the PUP’s Dr. Candice […]

    Bandits back in control with three weeks to playoffs
    A first slip-up of the season for San Ignacio’s Verdes in controversial fashion could cost […]

    New date set for 2nd Annual Sleep it Out fundraiser
    The Welcome Resource Center, which assists the homeless population in Belize, has set a new date […]

    Blogs

    Then and Now Secret Beach
    Secret beach is one of those places where you cannot stop progress. I am glad that I was able to enjoy the experience long before it turned commercial. I will never forget my first trip up there, by boat because there were no roads yet. When it finally opened up to travel by golf cart we used to go picnic and explore The Cave Beyond Secret Beach. Then growth started exploding like Christmas firecrackers. The area filled up fast with a bunch of great businesses that came together to create a unique and fun Caribbean chill-out experience. I, however, have had a hard time adjusting to the change. Living on a small island I believe it is important to be mindful and do personal growth work to help you weather all kinds of storms and growth. I have been practicing not creating my future based on my past and I recently realized that I am closer than ever to letting go with the right person and giving myself the Secret Beach tour through fresh eyes.

    Just Another Day Grocery Shopping
    HOW MANY STOPS DOES IT TAKE? Shopping for groceries is no small task here in San Pedro, and anyone who lives here as an expat can attest to this! It is not like going to Super Target for a one stop shop. We have learned which places to get the best bang for our buck, along with the best products when shopping for all of our necessities. Living north of the bridge, this excursion usually takes around 3 - 4 hours from start to finish, depending on if you hit “San Pedro” traffic in town, right when the kids get out for lunch at 11:30 and head back to school at 12:30. So you can either plan your grocery trip before or after, or if you don’t mind about a 5 min sidetrack due to “traffic”. Even getting ready to leave the house is a process. First, make your list, based on the stops you have to take. Then don’t forget the “Yeti” cooler for your cold products, along with another big bag to load up the groceries. As well as any cases of returnable bottles, such as Landshark, Belkin, or sodas! Also, don’t forget to load up your empty 5 gallon water jugs. Time to put all the empties on the cart and get ready for your grocery extravaganza!

    A Day in Belize City – Museum
    For tourists and locals who have only one day to look around Belize City, it may seem that the best bet is to explore what gastronomy the city has to offer. However, there is a charming national museum waiting for you to visit! Situated just a stone’s throw from the Belize Tourism Village, the Museum of Belize is safely tucked away on the compound of the Central Bank of Belize. Day tourists and locals alike are surprised to know that there is so much to see and learn behind the tall walls which guard both the museum and the city’s highest security location.

    The 17th National Tourism Awards 2019
    Over the weekend on October 19, 2019 the Belize Tourism Board hosted their annual tourism awards. Experts in the tourism industry gathered at the Caribbean Motors Showroom for a night of recognition. The National Tourism awards are held annually, to acknowledge and award those in the tourism industry for excellent service in the hospitality and tourism industry. Belize has become an attractive destination. The organizations, properties and businesses in attendance at the awards are key players in making Belize the desirable destination it is today. In recognition of their hard work and dedication, the BTB used this night to celebrate and honour those in the industry.

    3 Amazing Adventures You Can Do Only In Belize
    Turquoise waters, exotic wildlife, pristine reef systems, abundant marine life, and rich Maya history make Belize a destination like no other. To experience the best of best try an activity that falls into each of Belize’s offerings. Here are our top recommendations on how you can experience the best of Belize, only in Belize!

    Manatees In Belize
    Manatees are some of the most unusual and interesting mammals in the world. There are 800 to 1000 individuals that call Belize home because its coastline is highly conducive to manatee life. These playful and gentle giants, often described as “Sea Cows,” live in shallow and warm waters. They have a very slow metabolism, so they spend half their day resting and the rest slowly swimming in search of food. The best areas to spot them would be: Northern Lagoon, located inside of the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary—Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary located 7 miles from Belize City, and Galespoint Manatee Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Southern Lagoon, just offshore from the southern part of the Belize District.

    Commonly Asked Questions About The Maya
    Many theories abound, some ludicrous and even contradictory, have been proposed. Some researchers suggest that the Maya were simple farmers, until people from ancient Greece arrived in Central America to “civilize” them. They believed that the knowledge of the Maya was imposed rather than intrinsic. However, these are only theories, and what is true is that heir development cannot be so easily explained. Most likely, it was a gradual process that combined a number of factors: ecological adaptation, diversity in time and space, unity of elite subcultures, competition, interaction, and ideology. Over time they learned to harness the diversity and resources of their environment. Villages became towns and towns gradually evolved into large city centers. They then divided inti independent chiefdoms, speaking one or more dialects.

    The Mestizo: Origin, Culture And Belief System
    Universally the term for Mestizo is Ladino, which means a Spanish speaking white person in Central America (according to the Oxford Dictionary). In some countries, people refer to this group as Ladinos. In Belize, scholars and people in general, use the term Mestizos. Today, the Mestizos, persons of Spanish and Mayan descent, are found in the Northern districts of Orange Walk and Corozal. They are also found in the towns of San Ignacio and Benque Viejo del Carmen, and on the islands of San Pedro and Caye Caulker. Mestizos are predominantly Catholic. They speak Spanish, but like most Belizeans, they understand and speak both Creole and English. Some also speak Maya dialects.

    Conch Fritters Recipe
    Conch meat is very popular in Belize, where it is usually made as a stew, soup, ceviche or as an appetizer in the form of fritters. These delicacies can be enjoyed as a first course meal at local, seaside restaurants, as finger food at a party, or as a quick snack when on-the-go. If you’re a foodie, you’ll be sure to enjoy our cooking guide to creating these tasty Conch Fritters: Blend conch, vegetables and seasoning in food processor. Combine flour and baking powder, add eggs and water then fold conch mixture into flour batter. Add additional water if mixture is too dry. Drop mixture, one tablespoon at a time, into hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.

    International Sourcesizz

    A British actor left Hollywood to fight ISIS. Now he’s marooned in Belize. It’s quite a story
    SAN IGNACIO, BELIZE — It sounded like death made airborne in those brutal days in Raqqa. Bullets screamed across the ruined streets in swarms thicker than flies on roadkill. Machine guns rattled. And the rocket-propelled grenades. Those were the worst. They hammered down with awful concussive thuds, smashing cinder block into choking clouds of powder For days in that sweltering October of 2017, Michael Enright crouched in an apartment building turned battle station, staring into the maw of the last Islamic State stronghold in Syria. Enright was the most unlikely of soldiers, pinned down there alongside his Kurdish and expat militia brothers, dodging bullets, blasting away with his Kalashnikov rifle, wondering whether these might be his last moments on earth. “It felt like the devil himself was breathing fire on me,” Enright says.

    UC Professor Helps Track Jaguars
    The University of Cincinnati is helping to track the notoriously secretive jaguar in the Central American country of Belize. Jaguars are so elusive and difficult to follow that they are nicknamed "shadow cat." However, UC associate professor of geology and anthropology Brooke Crowley was able to analyze jaguar droppings shipped to her lab to assist in the effort. The jaguar droppings were collected in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in Belize and, along with researchers from the American Museum of Natural History and the City University of New York, Crowley and her partners have found that jaguar scat provides isotopic signatures similar to those found in the undigested bones of prey to track the animal's movements.

    Food, football, diplomatic ties take center field at Copa America Taiwan
    he Copa America Taiwan and Latin Food Festival returned over the weekend (Oct. 19-20) for a vibrant celebration of the island's warm relations and exchanges with its Latin American allies, seeing the participation of students, entrepreneurs, and foreign dignitaries alike. Taking place on the campus of New Taipei's Fu Jen Catholic University campus, this was the festival's sixth consecutive year, according to organizer Fernando Ramos. Contributing to the international array of flavors, which ranged from Mexican enchiladas to milky, rice-based horchata, were vendors from nine different countries. During the opening ceremony, Ramos introduced the dignitaries at the event. The ambassador of Taiwan's longtime ally Belize, Diane Haylock, said in her remarks that, "We never think of all of the things that make up diplomacy," adding that, "Just as much as political diplomacy is important, so is economic diplomacy and, particularly, cultural diplomacy, and football is a very important activity in the life of the people of [Latin America] generally."

    Caribbean nurses honor assembly speaker
    The Bronx, Manhattan and Westchester Chapter of the Caribbean American Nurses’ Association, Inc. (CANA) on Saturday, Oct. 12 honored New York State Assembly Carl Heastie and Jamaican-born the Rev. Audrey Bailey, priest-in-charge at St. Francis and St. Martha’s Episcopal Church in White Plains, NY, with the Community Service Award. The nurses also honored Dr. Illouise Murillo-Tucker, the Belizean-born director of nursing for the Behavioral Health Department at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Hospital, with the National Service Award. Dr. Murillo-Tucker is also CANA vice president.

    Belize Central: A Model for Central American Prisons
    Belize Central Prison is the only prison in a small Central American nation. This past February, I had the chance to visit this correctional facility as part of ongoing research into key criminal justice-related issues in Central and South America. What I realized is that Belize Central Prison should be the model for prison management throughout Central America based on its success in real prison rehabilitation that prepares inmates for life after incarceration. What Makes Belize Central Prison Different? Since the faith-based initiative called the Kolbe Foundation took over in 2002, Belize Central Prison has been transformed. This transformation has resulted in a drop of recidivism to only 10 percent. In comparison, the Bureau of Justice Statistics reported rates of recidivism as high as 83 percent in the United States, and recidivism rates in Mexico have been reported as high as 80 to 90 percent.

    Mayan breakthrough: How ‘longest underwater cave system in world' was discovered in Mexico
    MAYAN archaeologists hit the jackpot after discovering two cave systems were linked to create one huge underwater passage more than 216 miles long, which a historian has claimed is the longest in the world. The Mayans were a civilisation known for their architecture, mathematics and astronomical beliefs, who date back to as far as 2000BC, with many of their impressive constructions still standing in the jungles of southeast Mexico, Guatemala, Belize and western parts of Honduras. Last year, the Gran Acuifero Maya (GAM) project made a breakthrough after months of exploring a maze of underwater channels in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Near the beach resort of Tulum, the group found that the cave system known as Sac Actun, once measured at 163 miles, and connected with the 52 miles long Dos Ojos system.

    Cool travel gear - TSA-Approved Wearable Leatherman Tool
    The Leatherman brand is known for creating multifunctional tools that include a knife and other handy items, such as a Phillips or flathead screwdriver, pliers or scissors. But that knife, well, it always gets in the way for clearing airport security and sometimes slows you down at international border entries. I have several of them, so I am regularly disappointed when I cannot carry my MacGyver do-it-all contraption with me on flights. So when Leatherman introduced its new Tread tool, I was very intrigued.

    Videos

  • Tecuani and Duende is Belize's first animation movie, 25min. Tecuani and Duende is Belize's first animation movie. It promotes our local folklore while also teaching conservation lessons. We caught up with the creators about the upcoming premiere of the short. We also previewed the music video for its theme song. On set: - Theodore Spain- Director/Music Video Producer, Tecuani and Duende. Lee Mcloughin - Executive Director, Tecuani and Duende.

  • Musical - Justin "J.Cas" Castillo new music video release, 48min. Musical guest was Justin "J.Cas" Castillo. He is one half of the group Kadence. He brought along his new video and talked with us about the future of his music.

  • Grace Flava With A Beat - Jerk Seafood Medley, 26min. Grace Flava With A Beat returned with a mix of seafood for your weekend delights. Chef Duane prepared a recipe of Jerk Seafood Medley with Grace Coconut Rice. Grace Kennedy Belize Ltd is debuting a new Jerk product and will be having a jerk competition to engage customers. We talked about this and the upcoming one year anniversary of Belize City Council's Super Sale initiative.

  • TRAVEL WITH MOON BELIZE 2019, 3min. A clip highlighting my favorite moments around Belize while updating my fourth edition of Moon Belize guidebook for Moon Travel Guides

  • Soca Mode Video by Belizean Singer / Song Writer Melonie Gillett, 3min. Melonie Gillett Won the Belize International Film Festival Music Video Award for best music video for SOCA MODE which was filmed at Belize Boutique Resort And Spa!!!

  • Garifuna cultural experience in Hopkins village, Belize, 4min.

  • Jolie Pollard, Entrepreneur, 3min. She's a bold entrepreneur from Placencia who has created her own line of products geared at styling and caring for Curly and Coily hair. And, Jolie Pollard may be riding the swells of a popular trend at just the right time. One look around any public space in Belize lately will tell you that women and girls have embraced their natural hair. Cherspoke to Pollard about her own hair journey and how she came to create and market a natural solution for natural hair.

  • Channel 5 Obituaries - RORY LEO HOLLAND, 2.5min.

  • BTB National Tourism Awards 2019, 3.5hr.

  • BTB National Tourism Awards 2019 2, 1hr.

  • The Caye Caulker children fun drive is having their annual tombola and toy drive, 6min. Bring your kids out for an afternoon of fun and games.

  • Business Hour 21st 0ct 2019, 1hr42min.

  • Bunch of frigate bird’s flying in Corozal Bay, 2min.

  • The Mighty Avengers Premiere, 1min. The National Channel is premiering The Mighty Avengers on Friday, November 1st, at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. It's all about Cayo's classic football team. "Come experience the legendary story of 'The Mighty Avengers', Cayo's legendary football team, on November 1st, at the San Ignacio Hotel, Bedran Hall. Tickets can be purchased at Central TV & Internet Belize San Ignacio, Benque and Belmopan offices. General Admission tickets are $10.00. VIP tickets are $20.00."

  • Belize Sports 2019, 8min. One of Millwoods Christian School's service trips to Belize in 2019.

  • Belize Aquaponics 2019, 7min. Millwoods Christian School's service trip to Belize in spring 2019, where our team built an aquaponics system for a school in Northern Belize.

  • Tackle Box with Jessica, 4min. Nice easy dive on our first day in Belize! Lots of curious sharks and grouper, and tons of reef fish

  • Arelee Parham wins Miss East Indian 2019 in Belize, 3min. This video clip captures the moment when Toledo's Arelee Parham won Miss East Indian in Corozal, Belize on August 3rd, 2019. Arelee is now representing Belize in the International Miss Divali Nagar Queen pageant on October 25th in Trinidad and Tobago.

  • Acción Deportiva, 54min.


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